Aftermath

by 1CharmedPhoenix

The war has ended. Ginny,Luna,Neville and the Trio are returning to Hogwarts. Yet, all at Hogwarts is not as it seems. Constant dueling and injuries. Also, new relationships are explored and forged across all lines. GW/DM, GW/CC and ultimately GW/HP.

26. Chap 26 Epilogue: Loss, but Much Gained

Chapter 26 (Epilogue: Loss, but So Much Gained)

Disclaimer: I am not J.K. Rowling. I own nothing at all.

(A/N): WARNING! There is a very EXPLICIT scene in this long chapter. Just letting you know this. Also, I made a mistake in the last chapter. They all graduate in 1999, NOT 1998. I also want to apologize for the delay. Writing this hasn't been easy, especially w/ college stuff and life too. I just want all of you readers to know that you all have really made me happy, reading this work of mine. It took me 1 year, and two months to write this story. To my reviewers, thank you all so much. This is for all of you.

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I was at the Creevey's home, with Harry by my side. It was the morning after the graduation. Harry and I were seated with Mr. and Mrs. Creevey in their parlor room. They had a very lovely home. Pictures of a smiling, happy Dennis and Colin surrounded us all. They were once a very happy family.

They were this no more. The parents of Colin and Dennis looked as if they were barely hanging onto their sanity. They looked like they would die of a broken heart. To lose one child was terrible, but to lose two children was misery beyond anything imaginable. They were good people, who didn't deserve what had happened to them.

"Thank you for visiting us. You are the only ones from your world who have." Mr. Creevey said, his voice low and hollow.

I nodded. "I wanted to." I said slowly. "I loved Colin a lot, and I know that he would've done the same for me in this situation." I said quietly.

"The man and the woman responsible for Colin's death have been brought to…justice." I said, not really liking this word. To me, it felt like enough justice hadn't been done upon the Carrows. "They're in Azkaban, where they'll be sentenced to death." I said, looking Mr. Creevey in the eyes. Colin's eyes.

Mr. Creevey nodded his head, which drooped tiredly down to the floor.

"Colin loved you a lot, Ginny, and he really respected you, Mr. Potter." said Mrs. Creevey reminiscently.

Upon looking at her, I could tell that she didn't want to think about the pain of losing another son so soon. I knew that she felt it, even now. Yet, I think she wanted to remember her living sons, not all the pain of their death. I could relate to that.

"When he came home after his first year, he was so happy. He would show us all pictures of a scrawny boy with glasses and he would say that he was his hero. Him and Dennis would stay up at all hours of the night, talking about Harry Potter and Hogwarts." Mrs. Creevey finished, sighing a sigh that was so full of pain and exhaustion.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. Creevey. I-I didn't look out for Colin and Dennis the way that I should've." Harry said quietly, not meeting the eyes of the Creeveys.

"No,son, there was nothing that you could've done. I'm glad that you came to see us. Besides the pictures, the memories and the pain, the magical world sometimes just doesn't seem real. Every night I go to bed, I beg and I wish that it's not real." Mr. Creevey said, his voice weak and broken.

Mrs. Creevey began to silently cry. She stood up and took the tea and left-over food off the table, in front of us. Mr. Creevey stood up and hugged me, afterward shaking Harry's hand.

"I thank you both for coming." Mr. Creevey said. His wife entered the room and told us the same thing. She hugged Harry and I both. We promised that we would maintain correspondence with one another.

"Please do." Mrs. Creevey said with a watery smile. "My husband and I are moving to America next year. Maybe we can start over there." She finished quietly, hugging me and Harry goodbye.

With that said, we left their home, saying our farewells. Then, we apparated away.

"They're strong. I couldn't live if something like that were to happen to a child of mine. They've lost two of their kids." I said, sitting down, feeling depressed.

Still, well after a year, the effects of the war were being felt. How long would the fight against the Dark persist? How many more lives would be lost because of this epic, never-ending battle?

"We'll be there for them. I promise." Harry said, kissing my forehead. I sniffed and wiped my tears.

"Oh! You're both back." Hermione said, coming down the stairs of the Burrow.

It was now ten o'clock. I assumed Mum was outside, feeding the chickens.

"Yea, and don't ask how it went. Use your imagination." Harry said somberly, sighing.

"I wasn't going to ask. Ginny, will you be okay?" Hermione asked concernedly.

I nodded my head. "Thanks, 'Mione." I said.

"Here, have some breakfast." Hermione said, setting some biscuits in front of us.

"The Creeveys fed us but thanks." Harry said.

"I'll take some." Ron said eagerly, coming down the stairs. "Oh, you're back." Ron said, sitting down at the table, grabbing the biscuits and stuffing his mouth.

Hermione hit him on the arm, and Ron gave her the "What?" look. Hermione rolled her eyes at Ron.

"Eat like you have common decency, Ronald." Hermione snapped.

"Owls!" Harry said expectantly. "I'll open the window. Two galleons those are our N.E.W.T. results."

Hermione dropped the dishes that were in her hands.

"Calm down, Hermione. You know you did great." I said, repairing the plates that had fallen and steering Hermione towards a chair.

Ron rolled his eyes and shook his head. He was shoving another biscuit in his mouth, before the owls reached the window sill.

"Here." Harry said, distributing the letters to their designated recipients.

Hermione screamed with joy. "I passed!"

"Tell us something we didn't know, Captain Obvious." Harry said wryly. Hermione's eyes were dancing.

"I GOT ELEVEN!" She screamed, jumping up and down.

Ron tore his open and raised an eyebrow. "I got eight." He said, pleased.

Hermione kissed him, telling him: "I'm so proud of you, Ron." Ron looked a little too pleased with himself.

"I got nine." Harry said, smiling. "Gin?" Harry said expectingly.

I smiled. "I got eleven." I said grinning.

Hermione looked beet red. She really was surprised that someone had tied with her!

"Congratulations, Ginny." She said, after getting over the shock.

"Oh, come off it, Hermione. It's only grades." I said, and she shook her head and hugged me.

Harry kissed me. Mum came in and sternly said: "What's going on in here?"

"We just got our N.E.W.T. results, Mum." Ron said. "I got eight, Harry got nine, and Ginny and Hermione both got eleven." Ron finished bluntly, shoving more food into his mouth.

Mum squeeled with joy. "I'm so proud of you. My babies! And you, Hermione, congratulations dear. Oh, Harry! I must cook dinner for you all. But first, I have to tell Arthur." Mum said, grinning.

"You've done it now, Ron." I said annoyed. Ron shrugged. "She was going to find out anyway." He retorted.

I rolled my eyes, knowing he was telling the truth.

"Mum, before you call Dad, I need to talk to you about something. Harry and I are moving in together. Now, before you start, know that we've thought about it and we're doing this. We love each other and that's final." I said resolutely.

I would not change my mind, no matter what she did or said.

"I understand, dear." She said with reluctance. "I may not like it, but you're of age. And it's normal to be thinking about building a family of your own. Just, do it right." She said, emphasizing the wholesome values that her and Dad had instilled in me.

I nodded and smiled. Mum hugged me, and Harry sighed with relief.

"Now, when were you going to tell me that you decided to play Quidditch. Ron told me last night." Mum said. Her lips were pursed and her hands were on her hips.

I glared at Ron, who shrugged. "Mum, I forgot." I said. She gave me a look and I knew that she didn't believe me.

"Well, you know how I feel about women in that sport. But, you are of age. As long as you give me legitimate grandchildren, I don't mind at all." She said, kissing my cheek fondly.

Then, Mum pointedly looked at Hermione, who blushed a deep shade of red. Ron looked unphased by her comment. He was still shoving food into his mouth.

"Now, when will you be leaving?" Mum asked, sadness in her voice. "All of my babies are leaving me. The house will be empty." She said.

I wondered how my mother would deal with the novelty of having an empty home, with the exception of Dad.

"Two weeks. We'll be staying at Grimmauld Place. Kreacher is renovating it as we speak. He said it should be ready by then, and completely unrecognizable." Harry said quietly.

I knew that Harry didn't really want to live in Sirius's old ancestral home. He wanted a place of his own, a place where he could start over completely. Yet, part of Harry did want to remember Sirius. He wanted us all to add very good memories to Grimmauld Place- memories that Sirius had never had of that place in life.

I looked at him, surprised. "Kreacher really would do that?" I asked. Harry nodded.

"I told him that Sirius's old bedroom would become a Black Family shrinement. But, yeah, Kreacher promised that the house would look brand new." Harry said, grinning.

"I can't believe it." I said quietly. "That's amazing and completely unexpected- in a good way." I finished.

Mum nodded her head, and a tear trailed down her cheek.

"Mum, I'll visit everyday. It'll be like I never left." I said, grabbing her hand and looking her square in the eyes.

"You promise." She said. I nodded, and kissed her cheek.

"You all must visit me four times a week, or I'll never give any of you a moment's peace." She said.

"Are you bargaining with us?" Ron asked thickly.

"Close your mouth, Ronald Weasley. And yes, I am." Mum snapped, folding her arms around her chest.

Ron nodded and so did I. "Good." Mum said, heading upstairs.

"When are you both moving out?" I asked Hermione.

"We're moving in with you and Harry. That is, until we get married." Hermione said, smiling.

"I'm trying to convince her to stay longer but she won't, for now. We're young, and we're all friends. Grimmauld Place is big enough to hold us all. We have the room, and you can stay with us." Harry said, trying to persuade Hermione.

"I'm in." Ron said and Hermione sent Ron a death glare.

"What? The man has a point. I'm in!" Ron said and I grinned. I actually liked the thought of us all living together.

"All right." Hermione said lightly.

"Yes." I said, truly thrilled and I hugged her.

She grinned and returned my gesture.

I was out of Hogwarts for only a day and I already felt thrilled by the thought of sharing a home with my family and lover. Our whole lives were ahead of us, and I eagerly awaited the journey.

---

Three Months after Graduation

"You're home early." Harry said as I entered the kitchen of Grimmauld Place.

I sighed, slinging my broom in the cupboard off to my right. I walked to Harry and sat down, pouring myself some pumpkin juice.

"She decided to let us go early. Jones wants us to be in top form for this new season." I sighed, standing to check the pantry for food.

"Here." Harry said, handing me a plate that smelled absolutely delicious.

"Your Mum brought it over." Harry said after I looked at him, wondering if he cooked this dinner for me.

"Thanks." I said, grabbing the dinner and sitting by Harry, whose arm snaked around my waist.

"No, Harry." I squirmed, after he kissed my neck. "I'm all sweaty." Harry grinned.

"Do I look bothered?" Harry said into my ear and I smiled, knowing that he wasn't bothered at all.

"No, but I- it feels, you know. I need a shower, then perhaps later we can…" I said, kissing his bottom lip. Harry groaned and began reading his newspaper again.

I sighed, returning to the dinner before me. I wanted tonight to be the night for us. I had wanted this for quite some time.

"Where are Ron and Hermione?" I asked, my mouth set in a slight frown. Harry shrugged.

"I think Hermione is in the library, reading up on some Ministry legislation. Ron hasn't come back from Auror Headquarters, yet. I think he's going to be a while." Harry said quietly, looking at his paper.

I frowned. "How is he doing? Being an Auror and all." I asked, truly wondering. I didn't get to see much of my brother or his fiancé. I barely got to see Harry- as it is.

"It's almost like he was born for it." Harry said, grabbing a biscuit and eating it. "He likes spending time in the office mostly, but he goes to help George in Diagon Alley a lot. I think he'll be doing that tomorrow on his day off." Harry said, nodding his head thoughtfully.

"You have work tomorrow, don't you?" I asked, sighing. Harry nodded.

"Yes, sorry." Harry said, getting up to get something to drink. "I only get two days off this week." I nodded.

"Well, I'm going to shower. I'll be upstairs." I said, leaving the room.

I wouldn't use the shower in the room that Harry and I shared. I didn't want him barging in, when I wasn't ready for him. As the water hit my face, I couldn't help but be nervous about tonight. I wanted to do this, and Harry had been really good about it all. He hadn't pressured me or anything, which felt really great. The first week I had stayed in a room of my own, waiting for Harry to invite me into his bed. Yet Harry, always the gentleman, would never do so. So, I decided to act and take matters into my own hand. While he was sleeping, I snuck underneath the covers and fell asleep. I slept uneasily that night, not knowing how Harry would react. When he woke up that morning, he was surprised but happy. Every morning I was greeted with a kiss. I was held with so much love that it all seemed so positively surreal, nearly implausible. I certainly wasn't used to it, but it felt extremely nice lying there next to him. During those hours, I was always beside him and it felt completely natural.

I'm sure that I belong with Harry.

For the longest, fighting it was just completely a waste of my time. I had always wanted an identity separate of Harry and my brothers, especially Ron. I loved them, but I was always known as the girl who was forever in love with Harry Potter. When he began to return those feelings, it felt amazing and I was happy. Then, the war got more vicious and we had to stop our relationship and I resented him. How could I be so shallowly selfish?

I tried not to resent him- I really did. Yet, I couldn't help myself. Even though we were separated for all that time, I still loved him. It seems like I'll never be able to stop loving him.

This time, I don't want to stop trying to love him. I don't want to wonder if there's anyone else but him, or if I'm doing the right thing by choosing him. This time, I'm sure about Harry. I'm more sure about Harry than any other aspect in my future, and that's why I wanted to do this tonight.

Getting out of the shower, I wrapped the towel around my body and walked to the room I shared with Harry. The room was empty. Harry had not come upstairs yet. Sighing with some relief, I looked through my dresser for something attractive to wear. I usually slept in one of Harry's long shirts, but I probably shouldn't do that tonight if I wanted things to go the way I wanted them to go.

This shirt of Harry's will do though, I thought.

Holding it up, I saw that it was a black T-shirt that buttoned up. Not all the way up though. I smiled and rummaged through my dresser, seeing a gift that Hermione had given me this year for my birthday. It was lingerie- a red lace bra with the bottom to match. Perfect.

It took me no time to don the items and to dry my hair. My hair! I sighed, truly annoyed and frustrated. Brushing it a bit, I threw the brush aside after two minutes of brushing. I plopped down onto the bed and grabbed an old Daily Prophet, waiting for Harry to come upstairs. What was taking him so long? I wondered, frowning.

I couldn't go downstairs and risk Ron seeing me like this. He would know and then he'd want to kill both Harry and I. He could be such a child about things like this.

The door to the room suddenly opened and Harry closed it, entering the room.

"Ron's just got back." Harry said, walking to the loo in our room. How could he not even look at me. I thought with a frown. "I asked him when him and Hermione are going to hurry up with their wedding. Hermione wants a wedding in January or something." Harry said, sounding like he couldn't believe that fact.

I hastily got off the bed and ran to the mirror, looking myself over one last time. "Yea, she told me about that. I couldn't believe it either. Maybe she'll change her mind. She's been doing that a lot lately." I said, grabbing the brush again and brushing my hair.

I heard Harry turn on the shower and run the water. Just perfect. I thought, rolling my eyes. Looking at myself in the mirror, I was very satisfied with how I looked. Harry wouldn't be able to see the lace bottoms but he would certainly be able to glimpse the red lace bra. I had never worn anything this provocative in front of him, so hopefully Harry would get a clue. Then again, this was Harry. Ron's best mate. Shaking my head of that thought, I grabbed the brush and sat back on the bed, waiting for Harry.

It seemed like I waited forever for him to get out of the shower. Finally! I thought, glimpsing Harry off to the side, getting dressed. He has an amazing body. That thought brought a smile to my face. Biting my bottom lip, I quickly sat back before he could see me.

"Like what you see?" Harry asked, leaning against the door frame. His chest was bare, well-toned and pale. Harry was always somewhat pale.

Smiling, but not too widely, I said: "Perhaps." I said, walking to the mirror again.

I then unbuttoned the top some more. Turning to face him, I saw Harry blush red. I walked toward him, stopping a breath away from him. Why does his eyes have to be so hypnotizing? I thought, gazing into his emerald orbs.

Smirking, I said: "Do you like what you-." I couldn't finish my sentence.

Harry's arms had encircled my waist, and he was kissing me with an intensity that he'd never kissed me with before. His arms pulled me closer to him, but it just wasn't close enough. Harry must've agreed with me somehow because I ended up with my back completely against the frame door. Harry was kissing me, barely allowing me to breathe air. Strangely, I didn't want the air nearly as much as I wanted him. All of him. I didn't even notice when he'd picked me up and positioned himself between my legs. All of me seemed on fire. Heat consumed me and there wasn't enough air in the world to calm me now. Looking at Harry, I knew that he couldn't stop and I didn't want him to.

He didn't have to ask me if I wanted this. Looking into one another's eyes, he understood when I silently acquiesced. Harry smiled and kissed me, carrying me to the bed and kissing me further. Kissing me everywhere, touching everywhere. He wasn't even shy or awkward like he usually was. Everything about him now was confident and sure. It made me feel relaxed and truly safe with him. His hands unhooked my bra and his lips found my breast. I couldn't help the cry of surprise and pleasure that escaped me. Who knew Harry could be so good with his tongue, his lips and his teeth?

A loud moan escaped me when he kissed my naval gently. I was breathing very fast, my heart racing faster than it had ever beat before. My head was extremely light, but I didn't notice any of it. I only felt Harry, ripping the lace panties off of me. I laughed, pulling Harry up to kiss me fully. Lying down with Harry on top of me, I smiled.

"You forgot your pants." I said, smiling at him. It took no time for us to remove them, and I was lying on my back again in a matter of seconds.

It was Harry who spread my legs. His green orbs were looking at me, filled with love and an insatiable hunger that would not ebb now. His gaze was questioning but I kissed him fully, giving him the one answer that he needed more than anything at that moment. He kissed me so gently, so lovingly that I felt, in that one moment, so irrevocably complete- so irrevocably content. His gaze- everything about it claimed me, filled me with love and passion that I'd never known before. I was sure- so sure about him.

I felt him come one with me. Pain! Merlin, the pain! Immediately, I knew that Harry recognized my pain. His gaze was questioning and, for the first time that night, he looked so unsure and reluctant to continue. I smiled a small smile and I nodded my head at him, encouraging him to continue. He was slow, he was gentle and there was less urgency then. The pain soon was no more, and I found myself wanting more.

I met every thrust with a desperate need and anticipation. I absolutely relished every moment of it. The touches became more urgent, and I found myself on top-changing the pace. It was incredibly amazing, especially when Harry kissed me and we switched positions. His thrusts became more demanding, but I matched him every step of the way. We were both on a high that was building, getting higher and higher. Soon, I felt him release and I climaxed. There was no sense of time. Only us and what we felt for one another at this very moment. When we were done, Harry collapsed on top of me, kissing me deeply. Both of us were breathing heavily, looking at one another and enjoying the moment after what we had just shared.

"Harry, that- that was-." I began, but I didn't get to finish my sentence.

The door to our room burst open and Ron came in.

"Harry, what's all the noise-?" Ron finished slowly, looking at the scene before him with a vapid expression all over his face.

"OH MY GOD! WHAT ARE YOU DOING-?" I yelled, looking at Ron incredulously. "GET OUT!" I screamed.

Harry was scrambling off of me hastily, looking back and forth from me to Ron quickly. I didn't need a mirror to see the expression of horror written all over my face. Ron's head stupidly tilted to the right, looking at Harry and I.

"GET OUT!" I yelled, about to throw the bedside lamp at him. "BARGING IN HERE LIKE THAT! WHAT'S WRONG WITH YOU? GET OUT!"

Ron's eyes widened, finally recognizing what had happened between Harry and I. He was beet red, redder than red itself.

He looked to Harry. "YOU!" He yelled, drawing his wand. "YOU SLEPT WITH MY SISTER!"

Harry didn't respond. His eyes were wide and his mouth was wide open.

"RON! PUT DOWN THAT WAND AND GET OUT!" I yelled, but Ron didn't seem to hear me. He looked at me fully. His gaze seemed as if he doubted that it was me he was seeing at all, like he'd never seen me before in his life.

He trained his wand on Harry and shot a red curse at him. "Damn." I said, seeing Harry get hit with the spell.

I didn't have a wand anywhere near me. Besides, Harry and I were naked. I grabbed the sheet and wrapped it around me, standing in front of Harry to shield him from Ron's curses.

"RON, GET OUT NOW! GO!" I said, pushing him out of the room. "RON!" I screamed, pushing him with more strength. I was finally able to push the git out of the room.

Checking the dresser for my wand, I found it and revived Harry, who was laying starker's on the bed.

"Did that really just happen?" Harry asked bewildered. "Please tell me that didn't just happen." Harry said silently.

"It did." I said, fuming. "And if you don't want all of my family finding out about this, then I suggest we get ready and talk to the idiot." I said, throwing Harry's pants and boxers to him. I grabbed his black shirt and walked to the dresser, putting on the shirt and some shorts I'd seen in one of the drawers. I offered Harry one of his shirts, watching him as he put it on. He looked at me and, together, we walked out of the room to talk to Ron.

We found him in the kitchen near the fireplace. He had floo powder in his hands.

I knocked the floo powder out of his hand onto the floor. Ron's gaze turned murderous. I glared at him, sitting down in the chair next to him.

"You will not tell Mum about this, Ron." I said, my voice low and controlled. "This is of no concern to you or the rest of the family." I finished, looking Ron square in the eyes.

"No concern!" Ron yelled, looking at me incredulously. "My sister becomes a scarlet woman and it's no concern of mine. Are you mad?" Ron screamed, turning redder by the second.

"Ron, I'm a grown woman." I said, trying to control the anger in my voice. "Yes, I'm your sister but I'm of age. This is my body and what I do with it is my business. It doesn't concern you or anyone, for that matter, at all." I said, looking him square in the eyes.

"You're my sister!" Ron yelled, looking at Harry like he was a moment away from killing him.

"Ron, if you can't handle my relationship with Harry, then you and Hermione can both just…leave, I guess." I said, not really wanting things to come to this. "I haven't done anything wrong, and I won't let you try to convince me that I have. If you can't handle this, then you need to go right now." I said, looking at Ron angrily.

Ron turned even redder, looking at me like he couldn't believe what I had just said. He looked to Harry, who really did not seem to agree with what I had said. Somehow though, I knew that Harry would stand by me in this. Ron would have to just deal with this, one way or the other.

"Ginny," Ron began, trying to control his voice. "Have you thought about this? I mean, really thought about this." Ron said, regaining his composure.

"Yes, I have. I love Harry and Harry loves me. Besides, you know how this is." I said, looking at him pointedly. Ron blushed a fierce shade of red.

I sighed. "Oh…so you and Hermione…haven't yet." I said slowly, trying to find the right words. Ron blushed and did not answer me.

I nodded my head slowly, not liking the way this conversation was going. It was entirely too awkward.

"Well, Ron, this happens between people who love one another. It will happen, in time, with you and Hermione. Until then, you keep your mouth shut about Harry and I, you hear. This is none of your business and if you dare breathe a word of this to the family, I'll curse you for life." I threatened, storming out of the kitchen leaving Ron and Harry alone.

I headed upstairs, entering the room that Harry and I shared together. Awkward!

Harry spent a couple of minutes downstairs; talking to Ron about Merlin knows what. It took him a while to come back upstairs. When he entered the room, his demeanor was back to normal.

"How is he?" I asked quietly. Harry shrugged.

"Ginny, you could've been more understanding." Harry said, wrapping his arms around my waist.

"He was going to tell everyone! How did you think I was-?" I began, but Harry had silenced me with a kiss.

His emerald orbs pierced mine, clearly amused and aroused. "Again?"

I grinned, kissing him. "Sure. Just remember to lock the door and silence the room this time." I said, kissing Harry thoroughly.

And with that said, we spent the night enjoying one another-yet again.

---

Four Months after Graduation

"Luna and Neville split." I said to Hermione, eating the sherbet ice cream outside of Florean Fortescue's shop in Diagon Alley.

Despite living with one another, Hermione and I could never really find the time to actually talk to one another like we used to. Hermione was an extremely busy woman, advancing well in the ranks of the Ministry. In my opinion, she was one of the few best things that had ever happened to that place.

"Really! Over what?" Hermione said, truly surprised. I nodded my head, swallowing the cold ice cream quickly.

"It was a shock to me too." I said distantly. "I never would've thought they'd split. From what I understand, Luna says that they just grew apart. Their wedding was supposed to be next week." I said silently, looking at the sherbet ice cream before me.

Hermione sighed, looking uneasy as well. "How could they of all couples split like that? I mean, if it can happen to them…"

I nodded and said: "Then it can happen to us." I said quietly. Hermione nodded, a slightly scared expression on her face.

"Let's just hope that it doesn't." I said, my voice low. "I mean, all relationships require effort, right? We just have to try. I honestly don't know. Sometimes, love just isn't enough in some situations." I sighed, knowing exactly how that could feel like.

Hermione nodded, looking at me determinedly. "Well, you and Harry certainly seem…perfect." She said, as if she couldn't find any other words to describe my relationship with Harry.

"Yea, and then there's time when I want to throttle him too." I said, grinning widely.

I took a sip of my tea, looking Hermione square in the eyes.

"I don't think it'll happen to us, Hermione. Some people just grow apart. Neville wants to travel for his interests in Herbology . Not to mention that he's going to be teaching at University in a month. And Luna, well…Luna's Luna." I said, as if the statement itself was self-evident. "I think the time apart from Neville was what really did it. And…she's met someone. His name is Rolf. He seems nice but strange." I said, laughing.

Hermione nodded, laughing too. "Of course, it's Luna we're talking about." Hermione said, eating her chocolate ice cream.

"When are you going to have that wedding of yours?" I asked eagerly. Hermione sighed.

"I decided on the summer." Hermione said distastefully. "It's the one thing that I'd let Ron decide on." Hermione said, smiling. I laughed at that, knowing it to be the truth.

"I can't wait to see you two married. I love weddings. Then again, I haven't been to many but still." I said distantly, thinking about Ron and Hermione. Hermione grinned.

"Has Harry asked?" Hermione said, a tight smile on her face. I shook my head no.

"I know he will when he's ready, and I know he thinks about it a lot. I've seen him in the kitchen, staring at your engagement ring. It's up to him though, and I'm fine with that." I said, grinning at Hermione. She nodded.

"Well, I'm not going back to work this afternoon. I've worked four months, with only Sundays off. You don't have practice this evening, do you?" Hermione asked, her voice hopeful.

I smiled. "No, thank Merlin." I grinned. "Do you want me to look over some of the things you have planned for the wedding?" I asked hopefully.

Hermione's smile widened. "Would you really? Thank you, Ginny."

"I don't mind at all." I said, truly loving to plan this wedding. "I'll just need your help on the invitations. I mean, where are we going to sit Luna, Rolf and Neville?" I said, biting my lower lip.

Hermione's eyes widened as she snatched her purse off of the ground and paid for the bill.

"I don't know how we're going to make that work." Hermione said slowly, a slight frown on her face.

I nodded, standing beside Hermione. "Well, we have all afternoon to figure that out."

And with that said, we apparated out of Diagon Alley and to Grimmauld Place.

---

One year after Graduation-June 2000

"Please, repeat after me." said Kingsley Shacklebolt, Minister of Magic.

"I, Ronald Bilius Weasley, take thee, Hermione Granger, to be my wedded Wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance; and thereto I plight thee my troth." Ron said, smiling widely at Hermione.

Ron did not stop here, however. "Hermione, you're the best thing that has ever happened to me." Ron said, sighing a long sigh of happiness and contentment. "I know I haven't always been the most sensitive, or the most brightest for that matter–." Ron said with a huge smile, eliciting a laugh from his wedding guests. "Still, Hermione, I love you. I remember the exact moment and everything when I fell in love with you. It's you, Hermione. It's always been you. Always will be only you. I love you." Ron said, staring at Hermione like she was everything beautiful that this world could offer.

To Ron, I thought, she truly is. A smile lit up my face as I stood a little ways behind Hermione.

Hermione began to lean forward to kiss Ron, when Kingsley cleared his throat. Hermione blushed fiercely, eliciting more laughter and cat calls from the crowd. I love this wedding.

"Now, madam, repeat after me." Kingsley said, smiling widely.

Hermione said: " I, Hermione Jane Granger, take thee, Ronald Bilius Weasley, to be my wedded Husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love, cherish, till death do us part, according to God's holy ordinance; and thereto I give thee my troth." Hermione said, smiling widely.

Hermione began with her vows. "Ron, there have been times when I've just wanted to curse your head off." Hermione said, laughing and looking at Ron with love. The guests laughed again, knowing this to be the truth. "For the longest, I knew that I wanted it to be you…and, for the longest, I wasn't sure if you wanted it to be me, but I'm so glad that you came to your senses. It sure did take you long enough." She said, smiling widely. It took moments for the crowd to settle down after this remark. Hermione's comment hit home.

"Still, I'm happy. So happy and the wait was worth it, every moment of it. Being with you, loving you is the best thing that has ever happened to me, Ron. I can say with all of my heart that I love you. I'll always love you. I can't wait to share the rest of my life with you." She said softly, her smile teary eyed but ecstatic.

I couldn't help the tear that slid down my face. I quickly wiped it and watched Ron place Hermione's wedding ring on her finger. Ron smiled widely, kissing Hermione's hand. She blushed widely, grabbing Ron's hand gently and placing his ring on slowly.

Kingsley withdrew his wand and looked at the couple, saying, "Now, join hands."

Ron and Hermione beamed, knowing exactly what was to come. Kingsley pointed his wand at their intertwined hands, tapping their joined hands which were now bound in a delicate rope that was of the purest gold I'd ever seen.

"Your union is now resolute." Kingsley said, smiling. "With the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride."

Before the words were fully out of Kingsley's mouth, Ron had grabbed Hermione and kissed her fully on the mouth. You could hear cat calls from the crowd, as well as applause and laughter.

Their wedding was finally done and over. I thought with a smile.

Hermione looked to me and beamed widely. Then, she turned and faced Ron again. Together, they walked down the aisle and out of the Church, where their wedding was held.

The reception was outside. My brother's wedding wasn't completely filled with guests. Ron and Hermione wanted family and close friends only, which was great because it brought us all together on this happy occasion. The reception was down at a building Hermione had known as a child. She had chosen it, and it was truly lovely.

"I can't believe I'm finally married." Hermione said excitedly, sitting next to me.

"Believe it, sweetie." I said, smiling warmly at her. "You and Ron are going to be so happy together, I know it. Just, make sure he's not completely clueless all the time." I said, grinning.

Hermione laughed and narrowed her eyes at me playfully. "That's my husband you're talking about there." She said light–heartedly. Hermione's eyes were alive and vivacious in a way that I'd never seen before. She truly was happy. Finally!

"I know! And you're my sister –forever." I said, smiling warmly at Hermione. She nodded, hugging me tightly.

"You did a fabulous job with helping me, Ginny." Hermione said quietly. "I wasn't necessarily easy to get along with, was I?"

I laughed, knowing Hermione's words were ridden with insecurity over the way she'd behaved. "Hermione, I get it. It's your wedding, and I'd act the same way too if it was me. Besides, you've always been a perfectionist. I get used to it, really." I said, hugging Hermione. She laughed again, after nudging me in the rib slightly.

"I really am sorry." She said, her voice truly regretful. "I mean, I just had to figure out how to blend a muggle wedding with a Wizarding wedding and I– it took me a long time to figure out how to do it properly, that's all. I decided on the Church and the regular vows though. I didn't want to shock my family too much." She said, grinning.

I shook my head and said: "Hermione, this is your day. No apologies. And the wedding was brilliant. Then again, you've always been brilliant. Genius really." I said, smiling at her. Hermione grinned and sipped some of the water she'd been holding in her hand. She was about to say something, until Ron beckoned Hermione over toward him, Mum and Dad.

"Well, I'll see you later. And, Ginny, thanks for everything." Hermione said warmly.

I nodded. "No worries and enjoy France. And… have fun tonight." I said, trying to keep my voice level. I fought the urge to smile, but I wouldn't win this battle for long.

"Ginny!" Hermione said scandalized, looking around at the guests to see if anyone had heard me. I grinned and raised my glass to her. Hermione rolled her eyes and walked to Ron, smiling happily at her husband. I saw Ron place an arm around Hermione's waist and I grinned.

"What's so funny, sis?" I heard a voice from behind me say. George.

Turning around to face him, I saw that George was not alone. Angelina Johnson was with him. I wonder, are they dating?

"Oh, nothing. I was just thinking about stuff." I said incoherently. George examined me for a bit, but then he smiled as he faced Angelina.

"Gin, you know Angelina." George said contentedly, looking at Angelina fondly.

Angelina stepped forward and hugged me. "It's been a long time since I've seen you. I heard you play for the Harpies now. I always knew you'd play Quidditch." She said, grinning widely at me.

I laughed. "Me? What about you?" I asked, wondering why Angelina wasn't playing at all.

"Well, I did play for a bit. I still do sometimes, but I'm on leave of absence right now. I got injured." She said, nodding her head at me.

"Well, at least I don't have to face you in a match." I said, grinning. Angelina smiled and looked to George. "You two are dating, aren't you?" I asked, smiling widely at them both.

George didn't blush at all. He nodded and wrapped his arm around Angelina's waist.

"How long?" I asked, chastising myself for not keeping up with my family better.

George grinned. Angelina said, "Six months." I beamed widely at them both.

"That's great. Don't be an idiot, George." I said, looking at him pointedly. George grinned.

"Trust me, I won't. Harry told me to tell you that he'll join you shortly. Meanwhile, Angie and I will be over there." George said smartly, pointing to the dance floor.

My eyes widened along with Angelina's. Both of us knew that George couldn't dance. This is going to be hilarious. I thought, smiling. I waved bye to the both of them and watched them walk onto the dance floor. George looked happy, which made me feel elated. He'd been through so much. He had suffered so much, and he had to adjust the most out of us all. He looked incredibly happy. Thank you, Angelina.

I turned my eyes away from the happy couple, who were dancing slowly on the dance floor. I then looked through the crowd for Harry. Yet, Harry was nowhere to be seen. Sighing, I turned to the food that was before me.

"Ginny," said Percy. I looked up, truly startled by his presence.

"Percy, hi." I said, a bit caught off my guard. I stood up to hug him. I hadn't seen him in so long. "Who's your date, Perce?" I wondered, smiling at the girl beside him.

Percy smiled warmly, his pompous aura deflating. "This is Audrey, my girlfriend." Percy said, smiling at Audrey with much fondness and care. Percy never looked at anyone like that. Well, only Mum. It was odd to see him so happy-looking.

"Hi, I'm Percy's sister, Ginny." I said, greeting the good-natured girl with a smile. She returned my smile, with a small laugh escaping her lips.

"I've heard a lot about you. It's good to meet you, at last." She said, her eyes dancing with life. Percy's got himself a vivacious woman, I thought. My smile widened.

I grinned. "It's great to meet you too. Mum and Dad are going to love you. Have you met them yet?" I asked, my voice curious to see how this would turn out.

"Oh yes," Audrey said enthusiastically. "I had dinner with them months ago. You're both incredibly lucky, you know." She said fondly, looking at my mother admiringly.

I grinned and said: "I know. Percy, why didn't you introduce me before?" I asked, a bit put off.

Percy frowned slightly. He said, "Life has the tendency to get away from people, Ginny. Besides, what do you think I'm doing now?" He said, offended.

I placed my hands on my hips and I glared at him. "You know what I mean."

Percy nodded and rolled his eyes. He was growing impatient. "Well, we're all busy adults. Perhaps we'll have dinner some other time. Come Audrey. I want you to meet my brother Bill." Percy said, steering Audrey away from me.

"See you later." said Percy's girlfriend rather hastily.

"Bye," I responded, waving at the smiling girl.

I looked up when I heard a great round of applause and cheers. Hermione and Ron were getting ready to leave. How much time had passed here? Where is Harry?

I waved bye to my sister-in-law and my brother. I watched them disapparate before me. Sighing, I looked around the reception hall one last time. Harry was nowhere to be seen. I grabbed my purse off of the floor and I snatched up my robe. I walked to my parents, who were talking to Charlie. Thank Merlin he didn't have a date.

"Bye, Mum." I said, kissing her cheek. "Bye, Dad." I said, hugging him.

"Why are you leaving so soon, dear?" Mum said, her mouth in a frown. "Besides, I need your help tidying this all up." She said, patting me lightly on the shoulder and starting her conversation with Dad and Charlie again.

I grimaced and looked away, extremely put off.

"Care to dance?" said a voice from behind me. I turned around with a smile.

"Neville, it's great to see you." I said, hugging him. "I've missed you so much." I said, allowing Neville to walk me onto the dance floor.

Neville smiled widely and twirled me once. "Yea, I've been so busy. I meant to stop by and visit you and Harry both. Sorry." Neville said, a small smile on his face. "I know you know about Luna and I, Gin. It's okay." He said, truly appearing to be at ease.

I sighed. "Yea, I'm sorry about that. I never saw that coming." I said, all the while being mindful of not stepping on Neville's feet.

"Neither did I." He said, his voice somewhat wise and tired. "Still, things happen for a reason, don't they? I just think maybe this all happened for the best." Neville said, looking me square in the eyes.

I nodded. "You'll find the one, Neville. Give it time, you will." I said, hugging him.

Neville smiled warmly. "I saw Harry leave about an hour and a half ago. I'm surprised you even stayed here that long. Didn't you–? Oh, you didn't know." Neville said, sensing my anger.

"That prat left without telling me. Wait till I see him." I whispered, furious. Neville laughed.

"Ease up, Ginny. I'm sure Harry had his reasons. If it helps, I'll stay and help you and your Mum cleanup." He said helpfully. I nodded.

"No matter what you say, Neville, I'm still going to kill him when I see him." I said.

"I wouldn't expect anything else, Gin." Neville said, chuckling.

We spent the rest of the evening dancing, catching up with one another and cleaning. It was nice to see family and old friends, happy with life and its blessings.

---

"HOW COULD YOU LEAVE ME THERE? AND ALL BY MYSELF TOO!" I yelled, looking at Harry furiously.

He seemed cowed and startled at the same time. He tried to say something, but I wouldn't let him.

"I can't believe you, Harry." I screamed, walking upstairs and out of the kitchen.

I needed to shower and go to bed. Today had been a really good day, until I had arrived home. Since when did Harry become such an insensitive prat?

"Ginny, you can't go up there." Harry said hurriedly, his eyes wide. I glared at him coldly.

"What do you mean 'I can't go up there'?" I said heatedly. "Why not?" I asked, gazing at him critically.

I huffed and began walking upstairs, entering the room. It looked completely different. It looked nothing like our room. It was brilliantly beautiful. There was no bed before me. There was only a green field, bathed in sunlight and flowers. There were trees of oak and pine that seemed to extend forever, up to the sky. There was a lake and the water glistened beautifully in the sun. There was a boat on the water near the shore. And there was a picnic set on the ground, shaded by the tree.

I turned and faced Harry, my mouth wide open stupidly. "Harry? What–?"

Harry's lips were pursed tightly. "WHY? Why do you always do this? I had a plan, Ginny– a plan!" Harry began heatedly.

"What?" I asked confusedly, looking around at the scene before me. "Do what? What plan?" I said, truly stunned.

Harry sighed and grabbed my arm, closing the door to the room. The room door disappeared.

"Harry, the door's gone. It's gone!" I said, startled. Harry rolled his eyes.

"You're acting like Ron, Ginny." Harry said, grinning at me.

I frowned and narrowed my eyes at him. "I am not." I said, offended.

Harry's grin widened. He stepped close to me, clearly wanting to kiss me. I moved my face away from his, avoiding his lips. Harry groaned. "Ginny, don't–." Harry began.

"What's this all about, Harry?" I asked quietly, looking around at the scene before me.

"Marry me." Harry said, his emerald eyes glistening in the sun.

I heard his words clearly. I didn't need to think about it. "Yes." I said, a grin spreading across my face.

Harry walked close to me, grabbing me by the waist and kissing me gently.

"You weren't supposed to find out like this." Harry said irritably. "Charlie was supposed to distract you long enough for me to get all this ready. You were never supposed to know I was gone." Harry said, smiling at me.

I rolled my eyes. "Harry, you didn't have to do all of this. I would've –." I began.

Harry silenced me with a kiss. "I had it all figured out, Gin." Harry said huskily. "You were supposed to be surprised and– and swept off of your feet." Harry said somewhat awkwardly, kissing me again.

I sighed. "I'm sorry." I said quietly.

"No, you're not." Harry said, narrowing his eyes at me playfully. "Still, it's better this way." Harry said, dropping to one knee.

A smile spread across my face. Harry grabbed my hand and pulled out a black velvet box. I nearly snatched the box out of his hand and opened it myself. He was taking too long.

Harry opened the box, hiding the view of the ring from me. I felt something on my ring finger, but it was not an engagement ring.

"Harry, what is this? Give me my ring." I whined. Harry laughed heartily, smirking at me. I glared at him.

"Harry Potter, don't–patronize–me." I said slowly. Harry grabbed my waist and wrenched me forward. I collapsed on top of him, both of us laughing uncontrollably. I couldn't help myself. I had to kiss him.

Harry sighed, his emerald orbs meeting my dark brown ones. Harry sat up, with me lying on his lap.

"Harry, my ring." I whined. Harry grinned and grabbed my hand. He slipped the ring onto my finger.

It was beautiful, absolutely gorgeous. It was simple, but classy. Three diamonds, with a sapphire diamond in the center. The sapphire diamond was the biggest, glistening beautifully in the sun.

"It's beautiful, Harry." I said quietly, kissing him. Harry smiled, relieved.

"I thought you might like it. Hermione helped me pick it out." Harry said, kissing my jaw line.

"I love it. Really, thank you." I said, kissing him passionately on the lips.

"Harry, where are we?" I asked, perturbed.

Harry grinned. "We're in Florence, Italy." Harry said confidently.

"Really! Harry, this is too much." I said, kissing him. Harry laughed, kissing me again.

"No it's not, Ginny. I love you." Harry said, as if it were the simplest thing in the world. "Besides, I have friends at the Ministry who didn't mind doing me this favor. We'll have to apparate back though, but we have all day here." Harry said lightly, caressing my hip.

I smiled, grabbing his hand and squeezing it. "So, we can stay as long as we want." I said hopefully.

Harry nodded. "Yes, but Hermione and Ron will be on their honeymoon this weekend." Harry said mischievously.

I smiled widely. "So, we'll have the house completely to ourselves."

Harry grinned, gently caressing my stomach now. "I like the way you think, love."

I laughed. "Well, can we stay here for a while and go home later?"

Harry nodded and picked me up. "Let's go for a swim, shall we?" He said with a wide smile on his face.

"Harry– no! Put me down. No!" I yelled, while being thrown into the lake.

Harry was laughing now. I glared at him, fighting the urge to smile. Harry was still laughing at my expense. I swam forward, tugging at his ankle hard. Like expected, he toppled into the water clumsily.

"Ginny," Harry exclaimed. I shrugged, grinning widely at him.

I wrapped my arm around Harry's neck. "Harry, this is so perfect." I whispered, looking at his emerald eyes.

Harry kissed me. "I'm glad you like it, Mrs. Ginny Potter." Harry said, smiling widely. "It sounds…right." Harry said, kissing me fully on the mouth.

I grinned. "Because it is right." I said, splashing water onto him.

Harry and I spent the rest of that evening enjoying one another in the south of Florence, Italy. It was a fun day that was spent in laughter and joy. It was a fun night, spent together-completely shrouded in love.

---

July 15, 2000-Becoming Mrs. Ginevra Potter

"How are you feeling, Gin bug?" asked Dad. Turning around, I saw my father.

I sighed contentedly, smiling at my father. He was getting older, and the red strands of his hair were becoming more white. He had a while till he was completely white, but he would be there in a couple of years or so. Dad had a warm smile on his face and his arms were wide open, offering me a hug.

I hugged him, having to tip-toe to reach him. Dad was always very tall, as well as very understanding.

"Great. I feel great." I said, beaming up at him. Dad squeezed me lightly, nodding his head knowledgeably.

"Exactly how I felt when I married your mother." Dad breathed, a reminiscent warm look on his face. He was glowing.

Even after all of these years, their still in love. I thought. Harry and I will be like that.

I smiled at Dad and his grin widened. "You look so much like your mother today, Ginny. She's outside, crying, of course." Dad said, his voice humorous and light.

My smile lessened slightly. "I'll go talk-." I said, lifting the bottom of my wedding dress off of the floor.

Dad smiled. "Your mother would kill me if I let you leave this room before the ceremony." Dad said, his voice serious. I laughed. "No, it's best that we follow her orders and stay put. Besides, in three minutes, you'll be walking down that aisle." Dad said, his voice distant and low.

I looked up at my Dad and smiled, getting teary eyed. "Dad, I'll always be your little Ginbug. You and Mum only have that courtesy. Besides, you'll always be my Dad. I've loved you the longest. I'll always love you." I said, hugging my Dad tighter.

He smiled, a single tear falling down his face. "It's just…memories." He said, his smile very wide and his eyes teary.

I sighed and looked to the door that had just been thrust open. Hermione and Mum were in the doorway, looking at me critically.

"Thank Merlin you didn't spill anything on that dress." Hermione said, fiddling with the bottom of the gown.

"Relax Hermione. You planned this wedding so I'm confident that everything is perfect." I said, pulling her up by her elbows gently.

Hermione beamed widely at me, hugging me tightly. "How do you feel?" Hermione asked, her gaze cautious.

I smiled widely at her. "I feel like this is meant to be." I said, grabbing her hand and squeezing it lightly. Hermione smiled at me and sighed.

"Oh dear." Mum said, her eyes teary eyed. "It's time." Mum breathed, her face happy and serene.

I looked to Hermione and hugged her. Then, I turned to Mum and kissed her.

"I'm ready. Let's go." I said, walking to my Dad and taking his proffered arm.

"You okay, Dad?" I asked, smiling at him. Dad grinned widely at me and nodded.

"Okay then." I sighed. Dad led me out of the Burrow, to the garden entrance.

It was beautifully decorated. Hermione had truly outdone herself. The garden was beautiful, full of high, golden weeds that were in bloom. There were roses of white, of gold and red that led the way to Harry. Harry looked so breathtakingly handsome and radiant. He smiled when he saw me, and his emerald eyes looked at me like I was the most precious pearl. I was his universe -his everything. This is right.

Looking up at Dad, his gaze was fatherly proud and sentimental. I smiled up at him, taking a step closer to my one and only true love. Harry looked at me, and I knew that he would love me forever. I was sure, body and soul, that he wouldn't hurt me. Harry would love me, which was all I needed from him in this life-our life, together.

It didn't take me long to reach my soon-to-be husband. Harry looked at me and immediately grabbed my hands, cradling them in warmth and firmness that was secure. I grinned at him, looking at Kingsley to begin the ceremony.

"We are all gathered here today to witness the union between this man and woman. I ask that you repeat after me." Kingsley said, smiling at Harry widely. Kingsley's eyes were sparkling, looking at Harry with much friendly respect.

Harry slightly inclined his head at Kingsley, repeating his words.

"I, Harry James Potter, take you, Ginevra Molly Weasley, to be my wife, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'till death do us part, as long as we both shall live." Harry said lovingly, smiling widely at me.

"Ginny, you've been by my side, loving me when I didn't love myself." Harry said, his emerald eyes staring at me passionately. "You've always been there, supporting me and keeping me grounded and sane. At the most darkest peak of my life, it-it was only you who could reach me. You were the only one who could say something to make me laugh-to make me feel normal and alive. You did that, giving me the one thing that I've always wanted-normality, stability and love." Harry said, a small smile on his face. "I know that you…sometimes worry about us and our future together, but Ginny, I have no doubts about us. I'll gladly spend the rest of my life, devoted to you, loving you, until the very last breath in my body leaves me. I will." Harry said, cupping my face gently in his right hand. "I promise." He whispered.

I sighed, my smile widening even further on my face. Kingsley looked at me and told me to repeat after him.

"I, Ginevra Molly Weasley, take you, Harry James Potter, to be my husband, to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'till death do us part, as long as we both shall live." I breathed, looking into Harry's emerald eyes.

I paused, looking into Harry's warm green eyes. I gathered the courage and spoke softly to my soon-to-be husband.

"Harry, I've always wanted to be with you and I've been in love with you since forever, it seems." I said, eliciting a lot of laughter from our guests. My smile widened. "But for a while there, I thought…maybe you wouldn't have me." I said quietly, looking up at Harry lovingly.

"When you finally saw me and fell in love with me, I was more than happiness itself. I wondered, why does he love me? It's not because of what or who you are to the world. No, it's much more than that. You're the most loving, caring person that I've ever known, and that's saying something because I'm a Weasley." I said quickly, trying to get all the words out properly. The guests laughed at my last remark. It took moments for things to settle down after that.

"What I'm trying to say is that, I don't doubt us at all." I said honestly, looking at Harry through teary eyes. "I've been so sure about us since the age of sixteen and that certainty is what frightened me all along. I needed time, and you gave me that. In the end though, I discovered what truly frightens me the most to this day. I'm scared you'll wake up to reality and see that I really don't deserve someone so…good, so noble and pure. And nothing you say will ever get rid of that feeling, Harry. I just want you to know that I love you and I'll always honor you. You're my everything. My life, my one and only true love. And I'll love you till the end of my days, Harry." I said, looking at him with a watery smile. Harry smiled at me, squeezing my hands lightly.

My voice was soft but strong. There was one tear that had fallen down my left cheek. This was it. Kingsley pointed his wand at our intertwined hands, tapping them with his wand. A delicate rope that was of the purest gold I'd ever seen, bound Harry and I together in flame. Flame? I wondered, frowning slightly. There was a sharp intake of breath from amongst the guests.

"Your union is now resolute." Kingsley said, smiling. "With the power vested in me, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss your bride."

Harry wrapped his arms around my waist, encompassing me securely and kissing me slowly. I nearly forgot that we were at our wedding. His kiss was all passion, and it was only me and Harry. Forever, till the end of our days.

There were cat-calls from most of our guests, which weren't many. It was only a wedding of close family and friends. It took a lot of magic to keep the press and others away, but it was very manageable and Mum made sure it worked.

Ron and Hermione each approached Harry and I, hugging us and giving us their congratulations.

"Ginny, you and Harry. Your union…it's bound by an element. It's very rare and powerful bonding." Hermione said, looking at Harry and I. Her eyes were amazed and happy.

Looking at Harry, I grabbed his face and kissed him firmly on the lips. I turned to Hermione and smiled.

"I know. You can thank my husband for that." I said, grinning at Hermione, Ron and Harry.

Harry led me to the dance floor. Together, we danced our first dance as husband and wife. His hand was warm on mine, firm and comforting. His other arm was rapped around my waist, pulling me closer to him.

"Harry." I whispered. "Are you-?" I began.

"I'm happy, love." Harry said, looking me in my eyes. "Ginny, you're it for me. You're my wife and I'm very happy." Harry said, holding me closer to him.

I grinned at him, feeling complete now. He really loves me.

"You were right, Harry…about -everything." I whispered in his ear.

"I know." Harry grinned, his emerald eyes warm and soft. "You really should start listening to me more." Harry said, his smile widening.

"Well, I have the rest of my life to do that, don't I?" I asked, kissing Harry.

"That you do, love." Harry said warmly, kissing me gently.

We spent the rest of the evening dancing into the night. We were surrounded in love, and yet I could only see Harry. I only wanted to see Harry.

Harry, my husband. My all.

---

"You refused my wedding invitation." I said to Draco, looking at him crossly.

Draco sneered at me. "Like I would go to Potter's wedding." Draco spat, glaring at me.

"You would've been going to your friends wedding, not Harry's." I snapped.

Astoria sighed, knowing that I was fighting a loosing battle with her husband.

"Ginevra," Astoria said. "Please." She finished tiredly, looking at me.

Draco rolled his eyes at his wife and continued. "I didn't want to be at Potters wedding, just like I didn't want him at mine." Draco said, his voice cold and detached.

I sighed, trying to control my temper. "So you have a wedding and tell hardly no one about it." I said, my voice low and somewhat angry. "I'm your friend, or at least I thought I was. You could've told me. You could've let me be there." I said, not able to keep some of the hurt out of my voice.

Draco looked at me fully. "Trust me, Ginevra. It was the best for everyone." Draco said, sitting down near Astoria and wrapping his arm around his wife's waist.

I sighed and nodded. "All right." I said, shaking my head. "I guess you and Harry will never really try to get along. I'll have to bear it then." I said in a low, sarcastic voice.

Astoria smiled a tight smile. "When it comes to Draco, one must bear a lot." She said, smiling warmly at her husband.

I rolled my eyes, a small smile forming at the corner of my lips. "Of course. I just stopped by. I have practice, so I'll visit this weekend if that's okay." I said, looking to Astoria.

Astoria smiled and nodded her head. "We look forward to it, Ginevra, and I really wanted you to be there. Draco wanted you there too." Astoria said, hooking her arm in mine. She walked me down the hall. Together, we left the room with Draco narrowing his eyes at us suspiciously.

Astoria was leading me out of the home she shared with Draco in the south of Paris. Draco and Astoria didn't live with Narcissa and Lucius, although they visited his parents every Sunday for an evening dinner.

"He wanted you there, but…his mother and father." Astoria said, her eyes clearly conveying her meaning. "Well, let's just say that he didn't want our wedding day to be full of awkwardness. He just -Draco just wanted me to be happy and comfortable on my day." Astoria finished, smiling her conservative, slightly aloof smile.

I looked at her and smiled. "I know." I sighed. "And you deserved that. I'm sorry." I said quickly.

She grinned at me. "Well, there were only five of us, including the Minister. There weren't many guests at all." Astoria said, her voice low but dignified. "It's going to take a while for this family to regain what it lost, but we're Malfoys." She said proudly, looking me in my eyes firmly.

"We always survive." She finished, looking at me in a resolute manner.

She certainly is a Malfoy, I thought. I grinned at her. "I know you will." I said. "I'll see you later." I said, walking down the steps of her home.

Astoria waved bye at me, wishing me well on my coming Quidditch match. I thanked her and disapparated away.

---

Four years after Graduation- 2003

"I've been thinking." Hermione said, looking at me across the thick tome she was holding in her hands. "I…think…well, I think Ron and I should get a place of our own." Hermione said, looking me fully in the eyes.

I couldn't say that I was shocked by her words. "I'm not surprised." I said, nodding my head at Hermione.

Hermione looked at me and smiled. "Are you -have you thought about…a family?"

I looked at Hermione, sensing that she'd wanted to really talk about this for a long time.

I grinned at her. "Of course. I've thought about it for the past year." I said quietly. "Yet…I'm not quite sure Harry wants that now. I mean…I know that Harry is really amazing, I do…but I just -making the time right for a baby is difficult. You and Ron know that." I said in a obvious manner.

Hermione blushed. I looked at her, causing her blush to turn a deeper shade of red.

"Wait!" I began, truly perplexed. "You haven't told Ron either." I said slowly. Hermione nodded her head, worrying her bottom lip.

"Ron…well, you know how Ron can be. And we've all been working so hard in our respective careers, especially Ron. He's up for a promotion and I just don't think he'd want a baby now." Hermione said slowly, her expression wary.

I sighed tiredly. "I think we're both just scared of the answer." I said quietly.

Hermione frowned. "What do you mean?" She asked, baffled.

I sighed, looking at Hermione's brown eyes thoughtfully. "Maybe somewhere, deep down…we know that Harry and Ron will be supportive of us having children. We…you know, may be scared of having our own family…possibly because we're scared of what that may mean for us." I said, looking at Hermione questioningly. Hermione was pondering my words.

"Perhaps you're right." She said, her voice low. "I want children, I do. It's just…complicated. Maybe you're right." Hermione said, nodding her head. "We'll only tell our husbands when we're completely sure of what we want. That way, we don't go wrong either way." Hermione said, a smile lighting her face.

My eyebrows raised quickly, looking at Hermione amusedly. "I like that plan." Hermione grinned at me.

"Now, I was thinking about a town house in London. What do you think?" Hermione asked lightly, looking at the muggle newspaper before her.

I grinned. "Ron would hate that." I said fondly. Hermione nodded. "I know." She sighed.

We spent the rest of the evening talking about country homes that could be found far away from city-life. By the end of that night, Hermione and I had narrowed down some prospective homes that might interest Ron.

---

Six years after Graduation -2005

"We're parents." I said, looking at Harry with a wide smile. Harry's arms encircled my waist, staring down lovingly at the baby in his basinet.

"I know." Harry breathed, looking at me like I was the world. "We'll be good parents, won't we?" Harry asked, his brow furrowed.

I looked at Harry, seeing the scared expression on his face. "Of course we'll be great parents, Harry." I said, assuring him about our new plight. "We'll learn as we go and we'll get advice from my Mum and Dad." I said, smiling fondly at little James Sirius Potter.

Harry was gazing at his firstborn son like he was the most amazing gift in this world. And he is the most precious gift to us.

"I have a feeling like we'll need it." Harry said, looking at James fondly. "You know, for a newborn, he sleeps a lot." Harry said, looking at me warily.

I grinned. "I have a feeling like that won't last very long, love. So…we should enjoy ourselves for the moment." I said, grabbing Harry by the hand and leading him out of the room.

" 'Night sweetie. Your Aunt Hermione and your Uncle Ron are coming to see you tomorrow." I said from the doorway, looking at my son with love. "So you have to be a good boy for them." I said, turning out the brightest light in his room. There was another night light on in James's room.

"I have a feeling…like he's going to be a handful." Harry said, a wide smile gracing his features. I smiled at Harry, looking at him lovingly.

"I wonder where he gets that from." I said sarcastically. "Now, how about we go to bed?" I asked enticingly.

"I like the sound of that." Harry said, grinning widely. "And afterward, we'll need to get an early start on some rest." Harry said lightly. "I feel like we're going to need it with that little one in there." Harry said seductively, kissing my earlobe.

I grinned widely at Harry, leading him upstairs to our room…all the while knowing that things were forever and irrevocably changed between us now.

---

Nine years after Graduation -2008

"Look at them." Hermione said, watching James and Rose playing on a cloth pallet.

"I know." I said, looking at our kids with tenderness. "I mean, they'll be off at Hogwarts soon. James is three now, Albus and Rose are two…and Hugo and Lily are only months old and they're so big." I sighed, looking at my children with concern. "I just want to savor every moment with them." I said, looking at our children play together.

Hermione smiled. "You're sounding like your mother." Hermione said smoothly.

I playfully narrowed my eyes at Hermione. "I think we all may end up being a carbon-clone of our mothers." Hermione said, looking at me pointedly.

I smiled. "Well, that doesn't sound too bad." I said, speaking the truth. Hermione raised her eyebrow.

"It doesn't." I said, nodding my head at her. "I get it now. All of it." I said, looking Hermione square in the eyes. "I don't see how Mum did it…seeing us fight in the war and all."

"It seems so long ago…the war." Hermione said, nodding her head slowly. "I get it too. I'm glad my children don't have to go through what we went through." Hermione said quietly, looking at Hugo with much adoration and love. "I mean, they get to…be kids and live…without worry, without so much pain…and loss." Hermione said, smiling at Hugo, who was holding her hand firmly, not letting it go.

I smiled at Hugo, who was smiling toothlessly at his Mum. "It's going to be much better for them. We'll make sure of that." I said, looking at Hermione play with her son.

I picked Lily up and cradled her in my arms.

"My baby girl. Mummy and Daddy love you more than they love themselves." I said, hugging Lily close to me. "Know that." I said, kissing her forehead.

Lily squirmed adorably in my arms, and I laughed.

I loved this. I loved having a family of my own. Looking at the bright smile on Hermione's face, I knew that she loved it too.

---

Twenty-One Years after Graduation- 2020 (Ron's POV)

I love my wife and I love my kids. They are truly my all, my everything. I'm a lucky man, a blessed man.

Hermione is amazing. So amazing that being married to her for twenty years has been indescribable and completely fulfilling. Hermione has a way of keeping me grounded. She's the only one who can pick my spirits up and love me for the man I am. I'm not much without her at all. Sometimes at night, I just can't help but stare at her and wonder what she sees in me so much that makes her stay.

My wife-my brilliant wife, who has given me so much over the years. She's given me everything, been there for me when I was a jerk and loved me through it all. Hermione's given me two beautiful kids who have their whole lives ahead of them. My little Rose and my boy, Hugo.

I'm a happy man. I couldn't be any happier, or could I? My children are growing up fast and they'll soon be finished with Hogwarts, getting their own careers and Merlin forbid, starting their own families. Rose is too much like her mother. She's brilliant, beautiful and funny. She's everything a father could hope for. Hugo is a lot like me but, at times, his mother's temperament comes out in him. Thank Merlin for that too, because I'm not known to be level-headed all the time.

Life is just flying bye on us all. My nieces and nephews are growing too. My family just keeps growing, getting happier and fuller over the years. Sunday dinners at the Burrow are truly…crowded.

My life-my career. I never thought that I would be so fortunate as to have all this.

My family only matter to me. It's like I said before. I'm a lucky man to have wonderful children and a gorgeous, brilliant wife who's really the love of my life.

I'm a very fortunate, very honored man. Someone has been looking out for me and I hope they continue to guarantee happiness like this to the end of my days.

---

Twenty-One Years after Graduation- 2020 (Hermione's P.O.V.)

Twenty years! I'm many things, but I am most proud and blessed to be a wife and a mother.

I love my husband and I love the children Ron has given me. He is truly my all and our children are just the most precious gifts that I've ever been given. Watching Hugo get on the Hogwart's Express last year, and seeing Rose enter her third year of Hogwarts was the most happy, and the most heart-wrenching thing ever. I mean, on one hand, my babies are growing up. And then, on the other hand, my babies are just growing up too fast.

Seeing them get onto that train just reminded me so much of myself, Ron and Harry. It brought back so many memories full of pain and love. Yet, being their mother and seeing them get onto the train with smiling faces that were full of anticipation, it was just so rewarding and it felt incredibly right.

I'm filled with peace because I know that my children won't have to live in fear- fearing for their lives or for their loved ones lives. They won't ever live in fear because of their blood status. Thank Merlin they don't have to endure that.

Fighting for this life was truly worth everything. Having a loving husband, who looks at me like I'm his world, his universe is beyond incredible. At our wedding, I was so scared that he wouldn't look at me like that over the years. But I took a leap of faith, hoping with all hope, that it would be worth it, and it was very much worth it.

Everyday, Ron loves me. It's the first thing he says to me in the morning, and it's the last thing he whispers to me before I rest at night. My husband, although still hot-headed and very infuriating, is still mine. He's every part of me, as I am every part of him.

I love my children, my husband and my life. Everything is incredibly right.

---

Twenty-One Years after Graduation- 2020 (Harry's P.O.V.)

I can't believe I'm forty years old, and sometimes I can't believe that I've lived this long. I have lived this wonderful life full of peace and love that is pure as it is true. When I was younger, I never spent much time thinking about the future. If I had ever taken the time back then to imagine my future, then I would certainly see my life right now-the life I'm living at this very moment. I've been incredibly blessed and I'm happy because of that.

My children! Having children is the most wonderful life-time adventure any person would be extremely fortunate enough to experience. They truly are amazing because they teach you a lot about the things of life that really matter. My kids taught me a lot about love and happiness…and much joy. They're happy kids, which is everything I've ever wanted for them, besides a life free of misery and death.

My children are growing so fast. James is now in his fourth year of Hogwarts. He wants to mostly follow in his Uncle Ron's footsteps by being an Auror and working in his Uncle George's joke shop. And Albus is very resilient and smart. Ginny, and many others, say that Albus acts a lot like me, but I do see a lot of Ginny in him. Albus is now in his third year of Hogwarts. He hasn't decided on what he wants to be, career-wise; however, I know that his decision will be well thought out and just right for him. My little, precious Lily is still in her first year. She's loving Hogwarts and is no longer as envious of her brothers and cousins as she once was. She's so much like her mother sometimes that it's just frightening. She already wants to play Quidditch, like Ginny used to. Seeing them all grow up has been particularly amazing for me.

Sharing my life with my wife has been beyond extraordinary for me. Ginny and the children are the best things that have ever happened to me. Ginny's given me so much and, everyday, she just keeps giving me more and more of what I need. I need her, and I would be incredibly lost without her. Ginny is my destiny, my life. Since the age of sixteen, I've always known that fact-even when she wasn't sure of it. To this day, I still love to rub that in her face. I've always been sure about us, and I always will be sure about us.

Sharing twenty years of my life with my wife and children has really made me get how beautiful life really can be. Seeing them made all the fighting worth everything. My family has healed me more than they know. No more Voldemort, no more death eaters. My world was just beautiful, with hardly any pain at all. It's everything I've ever wanted and more.

I love my children very much. There is so much for them to learn, to do and to become. As their father, I'll love them through it all, guiding them to the end of my days. I'm happy that they can live their lives in peace and be free of the darkness that once shrouded our world. I feel like they'll be fine, and I can live knowing just that.

I love my wife, who has kept me grounded and loved me through everything. She is my soul, she is my life-my everything. We can finally love one another and be at peace. I've gotten everything I've ever wanted.

I've finally become the Man Who Truly Lived…and lived I have, peacefully. Loved I know I shall remain, to the very end of my days.

---

Twenty-One Years after Graduation- 2020 (Ginny's P.O.V.)

I would've told anyone twenty years ago that the years ahead of me would not be easy. Surprisingly, I would've been very wrong. Living my life-married and a mother. Well, it feels completely natural.

Harry and I have worked hard, very hard of course, to build a family full of love and security. We've worked very hard to instill wholesome values into our children, and to make sure that they're happy. Yes, there have been some trials along the way but we've conquered everything that has impeded our path to true joy. I feel like we've done extraordinary, Harry and I. I remember when I was pregnant with Lily, and Harry was so afraid that we would somehow not be good enough parents to our wonderful children.

My husband has always been frightened about that and understandably so. Yet, he's the best father the children could ever ask for. Every holiday with Harry and the children seems like Heaven, pure paradise. I never thought I would be as blessed as to be loved by children so pure, and by a man so honest and endearing.

Every part of me is still very much in love with my husband. Harry has made these past twenty years so remarkably extraordinary for me. He loves our children, and spends a lot of his time with them.

People say that there's no such thing as perfect, but Harry's close to it. The only thing that used to get to me about Harry though is that sometimes, he would act more like a child than the children, especially when James was first born. Harry wouldn't make it easy for me to put James to rest at night, because he'd always play with our son and get him all riled up before bedtime. Still, that's partly the reason why he's such a loving father. It's part of the reason why I love him so much.

I knew that love could grow, but I never thought that it could grow to this level of overwhelming passion-this remarkable height of unlimited infinity. With Harry and I, there are no boundaries, no limits. We're honest with one another, and that's why we fit together so extraordinarily well. Harry just knows me in a way that no one does, and I wouldn't have it any other way honestly.

Many things have changed in my life. I have beautiful children, who are smart, funny and wonderful. They're happy and I'm so grateful for that. James reminds me so much of Fred and George sometimes that I'm just instantly hit with past memories of my brothers, together in a corner, scheming as always. And Albus is so much like Harry, it's truly frightening. He's so caring, so honest and smart. He's the most kind-hearted, gentle child that I've ever known. And Lily, my beautiful daughter Lily. She's a lot like me. She's so determined, so strong and good-natured. I'm proud to have children so good and innocent. They make every bit of life worth living.

My nieces and nephews are a wonderful addition to my now gigantic family. It's really amazing to see us all when we're together. The children love one another, despite their quarrels and their petty competitions amongst one another. I see them all together and I smile at what this family has become. I know that my Mum and Dad are so proud of us all.

My friendships over the years have changed as well. I still see Luna, her husband Rolf and their children, Lysander and Lorcan, mostly on the holidays. They're an odd family but they're very sweet and are always welcome into my home. I certainly prefer Luna's family more than I prefer Dudley and his children.

I see Neville very often, especially since James is always serving a detention with his Herbology Professor. What can I say, my son! Harry and I see Neville nearly every other week, especially when the children have Hogsmeade weekends at Hogwarts. Neville is happy and Harry and I both are very happy for him. He's come so far. Speaking of coming far, I must mention my friendship with Draco. We are still friends; however, we are not as close as we were at Hogwarts. Draco is a busy man, and I am a busy woman. We see one another from time to time. The rift between us occurred when I really discovered that Draco would never really be able to leave his resentment toward my husband in the past. Harry has tried to do so, and his attempt was actually very good. He only tried so hard because he wanted to make me happy. Still, in the end, Draco just couldn't get over the childishness. Like I said, we still speak but, until he and Harry can move beyond a simple nod as a greeting to one another, then I won't be inviting the Malfoys over that often. Draco's son is a lot like him, but the boy also has Astoria's kind nature as well. It'll be interesting to see the person he'll grow to be in the future.

And Colin. I think about him often, wishing that he was here with us today. In a way, though, sometimes it's like he's never really left us at all. His parents live in America, and they have adopted one son of their own. They're learning to be happy again, slowly but surely. Life and time were certainly healing our past wounds.

"Ginny," Harry said sleepily. "Are you done with your reading for the night?" Harry asked, his green eyes glowing warmly at me.

I slightly jumped, being stirred from my reverie. "Yea, I'm sorry, dear." I said, kissing Harry quickly and reaching for the bedpost lamp.

Harry grinned mischievously. "You weren't reading at all, were you?" Harry said, grabbing the Daily Prophet, his eyes roaming over the Quidditch article I'd written this week.

"No, I wasn't." I said, failing to stop the smile from forming on my face. "I was thinking about us and…our past." I said slowly, looking at Harry.

Harry smiled, grabbing me and pulling me into his arms, with my back up against his chest. "And?" Harry asked, kissing my neck softly.

I grinned, grabbing his roaming hand and holding it. "And I love you -and the life we've built together." I said, kissing Harry's hand.

I felt Harry's smile on my neck. "I love you too, Gin. You'll never be rid of me and this life." Harry said, his voice playful and light.

I grinned. "I wouldn't have it any other way, dear." I said, kissing his mouth. "Now, how about I put you to bed?" I said, biting my lower lip suggestively.

Harry turned off the lamp. "Brilliant." He whispered, kissing me deeply.

We spent that night the way we had spent countless others.

Simply in love.

For life.

The END!

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