21: Hearts and Bones

"You take two bodies, and you twirl them into one -

their hearts and their bones

And they won't come undone."

Ginny sighed as she relaxed; one arm was flung behind her head, the other was resting comfortably, and her fingers were moving in a slow, almost circular fashion. She smiled as she gazed at the canopy that fitted across the bed, and let her eyes move outward towards the rest of the room. Ginny had to admit, with the late afternoon light basking everything in its warm, honeyed glow, it was hard to remember the last time she'd felt so complete and so content. But of course, she could remember exactly the last time she'd felt so happy, and as usual, both times were inexplicably tied to the man that now rested blissfully against her. Being away from him had forced her to realize one thing that was, at its core, a bit frightening, but true nonetheless - she just didn't feel complete unless she was with him.

She let her eyes drift downwards, following the graceful and seamless arc of Harry's body as he slept. His legs were entwined with hers, and his arms were wrapped possessively around her middle, as though afraid to let go. His head was resting contentedly on her stomach. She smiled as he gently moved up and down as she breathed, and she tapped her finger lightly on his head, untangling her hand from his hair, making sure it stood up 'just so' in the back. She felt her eyes flutter shut but opened them again as she felt him move. He blinked sleepily up at her, and she smirked.

"Hi," she said softly.

"Hi," Harry said, his cheeks turning pink. He moved his head so that he was resting his chin on her stomach, and she reached up behind her to get the glasses she'd stuck to the headboard with her wand. He slipped them on and grinned.

"I fell asleep."

"Yes, you did," she said nodding.

Harry tightened his arms around her waist. "I reckon twice with benefits is enough to tire anyone out."

"Well, I would hardly count that first time as a real -"

"Shut it," Harry said chuckling. "I was just over-excited. I made up for it the second time."

"I noticed," Ginny said dryly, letting her fingers play with his hair again.

"Merlin, you're beautiful," Harry said softly, watching her. Ginny felt herself blush and bit her lip.

"So are you, Harry."

He shook his head. "No. I am..." His brow furrowed, and then he winked up at her. "I am adequately pleasing in a normal, yet boyish sort of way. You, on the other hand, you make flowers jealous."

Ginny laughed and threw her head back. When she looked back down at him, she shook her head. "Where on earth did you come up with that?"

"My own head!" Harry said indignant. He laughed. "Can't you tell what a sorry romantic I am just based on that dreadful letter I sent?"

"I liked your letter," Ginny said gently.

Harry rolled his eyes. "I'm certain you did. Hmm..." He rested his head against her stomach again, moving the lower part of his body closer to hers. "Gin, let's never budge from this position. Ever."

"But we're all sticky from our own glue," she said, laughing. "We'll need to bathe eventually."

"No," Harry said petulantly. He grinned. "Our own glue, huh? Nice one." He rested his chin once more, facing her again. "How did you like my new way of saying hello?"

Ginny smiled. "I thought it was very...proper. I think we should always say hello exactly like that."

Harry laughed. "I don't think your family would fancy me devouring you on their kitchen table, Gin."

Ginny shrugged. "Sod my family. From now on, I expect you on your knees in front of me every time we meet. It's part of my payment from being away from you."

Harry laughed and moved upwards so that his face was level with hers. "I really missed you."

Ginny smiled and touched his face. "And I really missed you. But it's -"

"Not your fault, yes, I know," Harry said, sighing. He rolled off to the side, and she turned to face him.

"How are you feeling lately?"

Harry glanced at her, joining his hand with hers. "You mean, have I had any odd flares of anger and gone round the bend and hurt someone, right?"

"Your words, Harry, not mine."

Harry sighed. "I'm...well, I was with Snape all morning, and he walked away without a scratch, so I reckon I'm doing okay." He frowned slightly as he looked at their hands.

"What?" she asked, noticing something was bothering him.

"I did have a run-in with Draco; he was goading me, and he admitted he was the one who lured you away, in Hogsmeade. He even told me how he did it."

Ginny felt her eyes widened and tightened her hand in his. "What did you do?"

Harry met her eyes and gave her a slightly disgusted look. "He's still walking around with his body intact, don't worry. He told me he pretended to be Neville and then snuck into the dorm to get a piece of Ron's hair. He told me the plan had been in the works for months, but I don't know how much I believe that."

"Did you tell Dumbledore?"

Harry looked away from her, and she frowned. "Harry, you didn't, did you?"

He sighed and sat up, looking back at her. "What could I tell him, Gin? 'Oh, by the way, sir, Draco admitted to me he's used Polyjuice Potion twice and was responsible for Ginny getting kidnapped, see you Sunday evening'? He would have made me hang around to talk about it, and quite frankly, I wanted to be with you instead."

"But Harry -"

"Look, I don't have any proof Draco did those things, Gin. Just his word against mine, which I'm sure he'd twist around anyway."

"You didn't harm him or...punch him?" she asked then, feeling a bit out of sorts to realize she was honestly disappointed.

Harry noticed the tone in her voice and finally smiled. "Disappointed, aren't you? But no, I didn't. I just threatened him, and he ran away like the scared git he is. Draco's always been all talk and no bones, believe me."

Ginny moved closer to him and rested her head on his shoulder. "Well, I'm glad you didn't get into trouble, but Dumbledore should probably know Draco has been bragging. That's the first time I've known him to be so...well, full-on about it."

A strange look came into Harry's eye. "He won't be bragging to us anymore, believe me. I put the fear of..." His voice trailed off, and Ginny frowned. She pushed the fringe off his face.

"Harry?"

He blinked and then looked at her. "Sorry. Hey, let's not talk about Draco anymore, okay? I don't want to ruin my dinner. You know, Hermione gave me all your reading assignments for your classes; I know you're just dying to tear into those, aren't you?"

Ginny groaned and shook her head. Harry laughed and put his arm around her as they settled back against the bed again.

"I thought you said we're not to talk about books while you're here?" she asked, turning to look at him. He smiled down at her.

"Good point. Well, now that I'm awake again, and you're awake, and oh my goodness, look at that Gin; it's a miracle. Something else is awake too!"

Ginny laughed as they both looked down at Harry's body. "Not quite, Harry."

"Ah, ye of little faith," Harry said, turning and rubbing against her. He kissed her neck, and she sighed, wrapping her arms around him. He shifted and removed his glasses again.

"You have no idea how much I want you," Harry whispered as he moved his mouth up to her ear. Ginny shivered and met his eyes.

"Hmm, perhaps, but I am starting to feel it," she said impishly. Harry grinned widely and moved so that he was above her. He kissed her, and she moved her hands down the front of him, gripping him gently, yet firmly.

"Once more before dinner, then?" he asked a moment later, his voice deep.

"Yes, we must work up an appetite," Ginny said, grinning.

"Of course," Harry said, closing his eyes as her hand moved faster. He looked back down at her a moment later, and she let go of him. "Did I mention how much I missed you?"

"Yes, Harry," Ginny said, laughing. She shifted underneath him and opened her legs, drawing them up so that he could rest more deeply in between them. He paused, teasing her with the tip of his body, and Ginny sighed, letting her hands travel up his back and then slowly down his arms. She met his gaze as he finally entered her, joining their bodies completely together, and the sense of being undivided flowed through her - and they were whole, once more.

o-o-o-o-o

"Ginny's been working very hard, Harry. I dare say she could give a few of my students a run for their money. Garrett says she's often in the library as much as him, and that's saying something amazing!"

Ginny felt her cheeks heat at Mr Cosgrove's words. Harry smirked at her as the second round of food filled their plates.

"Ginny's always amazing to me," Harry said, a touch of mirth in his voice. "I think she's one of the most stub...er determined people I know."

Ginny moved her foot and kicked him under the table, but he merely grinned widely back at her.

"Yes, well, being determined is a Gryffindor trait," Ginny said diplomatically, turning away from him. "You're not a slouch in that department either, Harry."

Mr Cosgrove laughed and poured more elderberry wine for them. Ginny was not surprised to feel it going to her head a little bit. But she was surprised Mr Cosgrove had decided to serve it to them.

"I have to admit, I was a bit astonished you two agreed to meet me for dinner; I had the feeling I might not see the two of you for the extent of the weekend," Mr Cosgrove said, his eyes twinkling as he looked at them. Ginny noticed Harry's neck had turned a bit pink.

"Er, well, we didn't want you to think we didn't appreciate, I mean, letting Ginny stay here -"

Mr Cosgrove raised his hand. "Nonsense, Harry. When Albus contacted me about it, I didn't even have to think twice. We've had a slow return this year, and the abbey isn't as filled as it usually is. We had more than enough room for her."

"But still, thank you," Ginny said. "I know I don't exactly look happy when you see me during the week."

"It's hard to be separated when you're in love; I understand," Mr Cosgrove said, reaching out and patting her hand. "Tell me, how is Brogan coming along? Albus says the students are enjoying his classes, but I think I'd much rather hear about his progress from someone who has actually been in one."

"Brogan is...doing well, I reckon," Harry said, shrugging. He glanced at Ginny, and she nodded.

"He's doing really well; most of the students enjoy his classes, and I haven't even heard a Slytherin say anything wrong about him, actually. I...I think he likes it. Teaching, that is."

"That's good to hear. I do worry about him sometimes. Of course, I've known him since he was younger than the two of you, so I like to see myself as a surrogate father towards him. I knew his mother quite well when she was younger. Shame about his father though -"

He was interrupted as one of the abbey's professors came into the dining room, and Mr Cosgrove got up to speak with them. He came back after a moment and looked apologetic.

"Sorry, I'm going to have to cut this short, it seems one of our students has got into a bit of trouble in town. But I trust you won't be lacking in entertainment for the evening. Tomorrow is supposed to be one of the last warm days of the year, and I know a fair amount of students are leaving the abbey to go to a festival they have in Galway. You two should feel free to enjoy the river if you can and take a picnic, perhaps. I would hate to think of you not getting enough sun, Ginny."

Ginny felt herself blush as Mr Cosgrove chuckled at them and left. Harry shook his head at her.

"I do love the way you blush," he said teasingly.

Ginny rolled her eyes. "You were turning pink there yourself, Harry."

Harry shrugged. "Yes, but it's much more pleasing on you."

"Well, hurry up with dinner, and I'll let you see me blush all over," Ginny said, trying to make herself sound innocent but failing miserably.

Harry looked at her sideways, his mouth twitching. "You know, I think I've seen that a few times, actually. Not that I'm complaining about seeing it again."

"Hmm. I thought we could conjure up one of those mirrors."

Harry put down his fork and patted stomach. "Well, I'm done, how about you?"

Ginny laughed and shook her head, feeling a rush of pleasure inside of her. "No, not quite. I need to keep my strength up, right?"

Harry studied her for a moment and nodded. She watched as he picked up his napkin and started putting food in it.

"Harry, what are you doing?"

"We'll need reinforcements later."

She raised her eyebrow at him. "Oh, really?"

Harry smiled wickedly at her. "Yes, really. I plan on wearing you out good and properly, Gin."

Ginny took another sip of her wine, to hide the grin that felt like it was taking over her face. She just couldn't seem to stop smiling.

o-o-o-o-o

The next morning, Harry woke up smiling. Of course, he felt as though he hadn't stopped since arriving at the abbey. He turned and moved closer to Ginny, moving his hands underneath the duvet. He hated being away from her during the week, but if this was the result - this complete and total lack of caring about the outside world and all its darkness - if being away from her meant he felt as though he could never get enough of her - well, then maybe it was almost worth it. She stirred as his hands moved over her body, and his smile grew. He found her warm and wet and kissed her shoulder as he moved behind her, closing his eyes.

"Harry, are you being wicked again?" Her voice broke through his thoughts, and he opened his eyes to find her looking at him, amusement in her eyes.

"Are you protesting my actions?" he said as he sped up his fingers.

She grinned and shifted, giving him more room. "Why no, not at all, my love."

"Good." He kissed her, and she moaned as his purpose for waking her became more apparent. He buried his face in the side of her neck, breathing in deeply as her own breathing quickened. "Come for me, Gin," he said tenderly, squinting at her as he pulled back to watch her. Ginny moaned again and moved her hand slowly down her own body, joining his.

"Hmm, Harry," she murmured, softly, closing her eyes and twisting so that her hair fell over her face. He felt the moisture of her body on his fingers, causing him to rub her faster, loving the noises she made. She arched her back, her legs opening wider, and he kissed his way to her breast, gently teasing her with his teeth. He flicked his thumb against her swollen center and then moved it in a circular fashion, causing her to moan loudly again. He felt her give in to his hand, and she shuddered as she came, crying out. She closed her legs around his hand and turned, wrapping her arms around his shoulders.

"Hmm, and very good morning to you, too," she said, chuckling.

"Well, it's not every day I wake up with you next to me; I had to take advantage of the situation," Harry said quietly, resting his head against hers.

"Oh, you're going to be hard to lose on Sunday night, you know that, right?"

Harry didn't say anything, already knowing their time together was bittersweet.

"I'm sorry," she said a moment later, her voice sad. Harry pulled away from her, reaching out to find his glasses on the table. He forced a smile onto his face when he looked back at her.

"What are you sorry for?" he asked as she pushed her hair out of the way, gathering it behind her.

"For bringing up your leaving when we still have today and tomorrow to enjoy."

"But my leaving is still going to come," Harry said simply, sitting up and letting his legs dangle off the side of the bed. A moment later, he felt Ginny behind him, her arms around his shoulders.

"Sometimes, I like to believe we're in our own world; being back at the abbey only increases that feeling, I think. Something tells me it's going to be very hard to say goodbye," she said softly.

Harry turned and caught her eye. "Then we won't say goodbye...we'll just...say until next time."

Ginny smiled gently and kissed his shoulder. "Shower then?"

Harry nodded. "Shower, please. I'm pretty sore for having done nothing but shag the last sixteen hours."

Ginny giggled, and they got out of bed. He followed her into the bathroom, setting his glasses on the sink. He waited while she turned on the taps, warming up the water, and he smiled as she led him into the shower by hand. They busied themselves with lathering each other up with soap from one of the little bottles, and Harry felt himself become distracted. Ginny smirked at him as she rinsed herself off.

"Keep your mind on the matter at hand, Potter," she said coyly.

"What would that be in the shower?" Harry asked, amused.

Ginny turned her back to him and bent her head back. "Washing my hair, of course."

"Ah, sorry," Harry said, taking her hair into his hands. He picked up one of the shampoo bottles and slowly worked it through her hair, smirking when he saw the contented smile on her face. He planted little kisses along her neck, and she turned around when he was finished. "You taste good wet and clean," he whispered.

"We should get going, Harry," Ginny said after awhile.

He pulled his head back and smiled at her. "In a hurry?"

"No," she admitted as he maneuvered them around so that her back was against the wall of the shower, and the water was behind them. She smirked at him.

"I can tell you have plans that involve me screaming out your name in this shower, though."

"Am I that transparent?" he asked, leaning forward and kissing her, his hand snaking its way up on the wall next to her, blocking her in.

"Well, something on you is a dead giveaway," Ginny said, looking down, her hand reaching out.

"True, but that can't be helped," Harry admitted as he looked down at himself.

"Well, let's see what I can do to assist you then. Maybe you'll be the one screaming out," Ginny whispered as she started licking her way down his body, her hand taking hold of him. Harry grinned and closed his eyes, letting himself enjoy the sensation of her loving.

o-o-o-o-o

Harry sighed as Ginny's fingers linked with his as they sat at the edge of the river, their feet hanging above the water. Mr Cosgrove had been right; Friday was a warm day, although not warm enough to swim, they had found. Still, it was bright and sunny, and with the quiet and solitude of the greenery around them, Harry could almost believe they were the only two people left on earth.

Ginny squeezed his hand and then stood up, pulling away from him. "All right, back to the shade of the tree for me."

Harry reached up and grabbed her hand again. "Just a few minutes longer, please? The sun feels good. It's probably raining back at Hogwarts; I need all the light I can get without you around."

Ginny blushed but shook her head. "No, I've spent my allotted time in the sun, Harry. Any longer and you'll have even more freckles to love, and that's something I just can't have. But feel free to keep trying to tan that ridiculously pale body of yours, though, my love."

Harry stuck his tongue out and watched her walk back towards the tree they'd eaten their lunch under. He lay back on the grass and stared up at the blue autumn sky, feeling (unsurprisingly) content. He'd removed his shirt, and the grass felt itchy against his skin, but he didn't mind it. It felt good in a way he couldn't really describe. He'd never been one for just...lying about, so to be able to just relax on the grass and watch the clouds float by seemed a rare and precious gift. There was only one other thing that would make it perfect. Harry smiled at himself and sat up, looking around for his shirt. He pulled it over his head and got up, heading back towards where Ginny was sitting, breaking off small pieces of what looked to be a raspberry tart.

She glanced up at him. "I thought you were working on your tan?"

He sat down across from her and shook his head. "I got lonely."

She eyed him as she offered him a piece of the tart. "I wasn't over here that long."

Harry shrugged and gave her a wide grin. He popped the piece of the tart into his mouth and took a swig of pumpkin juice. Ginny shook her head at him and sat back, brushing crumbs off of her skirt.

"I'm amazed you're wearing a skirt," Harry said, letting his eyes linger on her legs.

"Well, I like to give you things to look at; I know how easily bored you are," she said coquettishly. Harry rolled his eyes.

"Cute."

"Yes, I am, aren't I?"

Harry shook his head and looked into the small basket they'd picked up in the abbey's kitchens. He frowned.

"Hey, there was a chocolate -" He paused as Ginny moved her hand and pulled something out of the pocket on her blouse. She blinked innocently at him.

"Were you looking for this?"

"Yes, you know I was saving that for after lunch."

"Oh, were you really?" Ginny brought the chocolate-covered strawberry up to her mouth, her eyes wide.

"Gin!" Harry exclaimed, leaning forward, trying to get it from her. "You've already eaten most of the raspberry tarts! I wanted the strawberry."

She smiled and held it out of his reach. "First come, first to eat, that's what my mum always used to tell us. That's why Ron is never late getting to dinner."

Harry put both hands on the ground, so that he was on his hands and knees, and moved slowly up the length of her, not looking away. "I want that strawberry."

Ginny coolly raised an eyebrow at him. "And why should I let you have it?"

Harry bit his lip as though he were thinking about it and then grinned. "Because I'm the Boy Who Lived?"

Ginny shook her head. "Nope, sorry. You've already played that card many times over, Harry. It's not going to work with this girl."

Harry narrowed his eyes at her. "You know, if I wanted to, I could magically make you give it to me."

Ginny shifted under him, moving her legs. She gave him a knowing look. "Yes, but you won't."

"Oh? And why's that?"

"Because that would be playing dishonorably, Harry, and you're not like that," she said, sticking her tongue out.

Harry smirked. "No, I reckon I'm not -"

"However, that doesn't mean that I won't be dishonorable," Ginny said, suddenly laughing. She moved quickly and pushed him harder than he expected, and he fell back. She stood up without delay and towered over him, holding the strawberry in front of him.

"If you want this strawberry, Harry, you'll have to catch it," she said, her eyes teasing. She backed up quickly and took off, heading towards a row of tall trees. Harry shook his head and headed after her, laughing.

o-o-o-o-o

Ginny slowed as she reached a small clearing, bending over, grabbing at the stitch in her side. She had no doubt Harry was right behind her, but she didn't care anymore; running about in the thicket that surrounded the river with no shoes on (not her best move, she had to admit), got really old, really fast. And all for just a silly old strawberry, she was going to give to him anyway.

A moment later, she heard the snap of a twig, and then Harry came barreling out of the undergrowth, hitting her head-on. She made a small 'oomph' noise and hit the ground.

"Ow! Bloody hell, Harry!"

"Sorry," came the muffled reply as he disentangled himself. He smiled as he looked down at her. "But I didn't expect you to just be standing about."

Ginny bit back the reply she had and simply stared up at him, feeling swept away. She was struck by how utterly happy he seemed and felt her heart beat faster as his eyes traveled over her, making sure she was okay. There was a light in his eyes she didn't think she'd ever get tired of seeing, and his skin was rosy from running and from being in the sun. He met her gaze and his smile faded a bit, the look in his eyes changing into something else that took her breath away.

"Here," Ginny said, offering the strawberry to him, her hand in between them. "Fair's fair. You caught me."

"I thought there was no honor among thieves," Harry said, his voice low.

"No, actually, there is," Ginny said, feeling breathless. His green eyes blazed out at her from his behind his glasses, and she suddenly had a hard time remembering who she was.

Harry lowered his head and moved his mouth down to the strawberry. He licked around it and then slowly took a bite, his eyes trained on hers. Ginny felt herself shiver. Oh, gods, I don't think anyone can love someone as much as I love him, she thought distractedly to herself. Harry smirked at her and nodded at the strawberry.

"It was a good race, Gin. I'll share it with you."

She felt herself nod and brought the strawberry to her mouth, putting the rest of it on her tongue. The rich taste of chocolate and the sweet juice of the fruit-filled her mouth, and she closed her eyes briefly. She felt Harry lower himself on top of her and then felt his hand in her hair.

She opened her eyes and watched him. "Harry, what are you doing?"

"Spreading your hair out behind you."

"Why?"

He kissed her, and she tasted the chocolate and strawberry again, and she deepened the kiss, feeling her arms work their way around his neck. She finally pulled back, feeling hot both inside and out.

"We have to go back to the abbey." She exhaled in a rush, feeling giddy and suddenly wanting him as though they hadn't just spent the last twenty-four hours shagging like mad.

"No," Harry whispered, his breath hot against her skin. "Right here, right now."

"Harry, we're outside!" she gasped, common sense returning to her over-heightened senses.

Harry smiled and sat back. He lifted his shirt over his head and flung it aside. "So? I don't think anyone's going to mind; we're pretty far off the beaten path. And Ginny..." He leaned down, over her again, kissing her neck. "You look so incredible in the sunlight. Your hair, it's like...fire."

"But...I'll burn," she said weakly, and he laughed - a deep masculine sound that traveled against her skin. His hand worked the buttons on her blouse, and he met her gaze.

"I'm already burning," he said softly, and she shivered again at the look in his eyes. Her hands joined his, and they were soon getting each other undressed.

They turned over so that Ginny was on top, and she shook her head as her hair fell over her shoulders. Harry stared at her with an awestruck look on his face. "Perfect," he said softly, and she felt herself blush. No matter how many times they were together, she was still amazed at the way he responded to her. She moved over him and took him into her hand, stroking slowly. She sat up so that her knees held her in place, and Harry moved his hand in between her legs, watching her face as he touched her.

"I can't believe we're doing this," she said as she gazed at him, feeling scandalous in the open air.

"I can't believe we haven't done it before," Harry said, moving his legs wider apart. Ginny looked back to watch her hand glide over him, feeling him grow firmer in her grasp. She turned back around to look down at him and bit her lip as she met his eyes. The darkness of his hair stood out against the earth beneath him, but his eyes were bright and matched the grass, and she felt a thrill of something go through her to know that all of him belonged to her.

When the heat of her body's response to what they were doing became apparent, Ginny slowed down her hand movement and released him. He shifted, and she moved backward, lifting herself off him. She slowly lowered herself down onto his body, relishing the connection as he filled her. Ginny wondered if anyone ever fit the way they did and then realized she didn't care - all that mattered was the two of them together.

She leaned forward and tightened herself around him, causing him to exhale a deep breath. She kissed him and felt his hands caress her legs, moving slowly up to her backside.

"Fast or slow, Harry?" she asked as she pulled away, her hair spilling around them, blanketing them both in red.

"I'll go anywhere you want to go," he whispered, looking up at her. She smiled and then moved her hips slowly, feeling him pulse inside of her. She propped both hands along the side of him, using the leverage to push forward. Harry tightened his grip on her backside, pushing up slightly as she moved.

"Oh, god, Harry," she breathed out as she raised her head. The pleasure of what they were doing raced through her, making her gasp. The sun beat down upon her back, and it filled her with warmth. She moved automatically, her body leading her down a blissful path.

"Sit back; let me see you," Harry said quietly, and she complied, shifting and changing the depth of penetration. She bit her lip as his hands rested on her legs, teasing her with the slight movement of his fingers. He moved his hands gently up along her ribs, and let them fall back down again, his eyes never leaving hers. Ginny felt amazingly alive and let her head roll back as her hands cupped her breasts. She grunted as she felt him move gently underneath her, giving her more support with his legs. She closed her eyes and let go - thinking of only one thing - and the feeling of pleasure inside of her seemed to peak, spreading out through every inch of her body. She heard herself moan and say Harry's name, but the full wave of her climax made her lose herself for a moment, and she was nothing but a raw feeling, moving to satisfy the hunger that seemed to be at her core.

She came back down to herself as Harry moaned, arching underneath her. She leaned forward again, pushing her body against his, knowing he wanted it fast and hard. She pushed the glasses off his face, and he leaned forward, taking one of her breasts into his mouth, sucking at her wildly. She moved one of her hands behind his head, holding it, tightening her hand in his hair. She bit her lip as his hand gripped her, his fingers pressed hard into her skin. He let go, and she suddenly felt the sharp slap of his hand against her backside. She smiled as he met her gaze, his mouth still around her breast.

"Again," she said and was rewarded by his hand once again making contact with her skin. She rocked forward passionately, pushing and grinding herself into him. Harry pulled his mouth away, and she released his head, moving her hand to his chest. He moved his own hands to her hips, holding her tightly to him, the sound of his breathing filling the small clearing.

"Now, Harry, now..." she breathed out, and felt him push up, the pain of his thrust making her cry out, but it was only in pleasure as she felt his release, and the sound that escaped his lips as he came filled her ears, making her smile.

When he was finished, she collapsed on top of him, her head on his chest. His arms held her tightly to him, and she listened to the sound of his heart beating fiercely in his chest, not moving until she heard it finally settle down. A cool breeze blew through the clearing, and she smiled as she looked at him.

"Hey," she said, feeling shy for some reason.

He blinked at her and smiled. "That was quite a show you gave me."

"Did you like it?" she asked, moving forward, tracing a circle around one of his nipples. She was happy to see the mark on his chest had all but faded. Harry smirked at her.

"Is the sky behind you blue?"

Ginny laughed and then moved so that she could stare at the sky above her, settling in next to Harry's body. The grass felt soft and cool against her still too warm skin, and she sighed.

Harry kissed the top of her head and took her hand into his. "I love you," he said softly.

She turned and looked at him, the tone in his voice making her want to see his eyes.

"What's wrong?" she asked.

Harry stared at her for a moment and then shook his head. "Nothing. I just love you a lot. More every day, in fact. I just thought you should know."

"Well, then, I love you too," she said, touching his lips with her finger. They stared at each for a moment, and then Harry shivered as another breeze blew across their skin.

"Good. I'm glad that's settled," Harry said, smiling at her. He moved his head. "Er, Gin, do you know where you chucked my glasses?"

She sat up, and Harry joined her as she handed his glasses to her. He smirked as he looked at her and whistled. "I don't know why we don't just shag in public everywhere we go; it's a shame no one else gets to see that remarkable body of yours."

Ginny rolled her eyes and tossed his clothes at him. She pulled on her knickers and skirt and then her blouse, not buttoning it, and looked around for her bra. "As if you'd stand for anyone else looking at me."

"Hmm, true," Harry said, and she felt him behind her, his hand sneaking under her blouse and cupping her breasts. "Leave the bra off," he whispered, his breath warm against her skin.

Ginny made a noise and turned her head to look at him. "Harry! My blouse is white; everyone would know I didn't have one on."

"Well, then..." Harry paused, and she felt his hands move downwards, lifting the skirt she'd just put on. "Take the knickers off."

She leaned back against him as his hand moved in between her legs and wondered if they were both going crazy with lust. "Didn't we just shag?" she asked a little while later, as Harry removed her knickers, pulling them down her legs. He smiled at her as he held them up.

"Yes, we did. And if it wasn't getting cold out, I'd say let's wait a little while and do it again with you bent over that tree over there."

"Harry! You're pervy," Ginny said, grinning at him. She took her knickers from him and pushed them into one of his pockets. He kissed her and then smiled at her.

"Yes, I know, you keep telling me that. But it's one of my best characteristics, wouldn't you say?" His hand reached under her skirt again and pinched her. She pushed him away, laughing.

"Well, you'd better hope a strong wind doesn't come along and blow this skirt up. I will hex you for that."

Harry shrugged, and they finished getting dressed. They joined hands and then looked around the small clearing, both smiling widely.

"I think this is now my favorite place," Harry said as they started walking back towards the tree and the lunch they'd left by the river.

"Hmm," Ginny agreed, feeling a bit odd as the air blew up her legs. She stopped and looked at Harry. He frowned.

"What?" he asked.

"I feel a bit...exposed," she said, waving her arm towards her bottom half.

"Now you feel exposed? We were both just starkers in the middle of the day in the middle of a clearing, and you feel exposed only after I have your knickers in my pocket? You're odd, Ginny."

"Well, it just feels -" Ginny paused as Harry pulled her closer to him, his hands moving under her skirt.

"You were saying?" he asked a little while later, his eyebrows raised.

She shook her head. "Nothing, Harry."

He kissed her and then cupped her backside with his hand. "I like thinking of your knickers in my pocket. Is that terribly wicked of me, do you think?"

"No, it just makes you unbelievably male."

Harry chuckled, and they continued walking. They reached their discarded lunch and packed it up. Ginny laughed at Harry as he turned to head back to the abbey, their lunch basket stuck under his arm.

"What?" he asked, turning around.

"You have grass in your hair and..." Ginny moved forward and pulled a stem of something out of the back of his jeans. "You have twigs sticking out of your arse."

Harry smiled and then nodded at her. "You should see what your hair looks like, Ginny. And as for your arse...just wait till we're back in our room."

o-o-o-o-o

"Oh god, that was effin' brilliant," Ginny said as she fell forward, feeling Harry move from behind her, collapsing next to her. She closed her eyes and sucked in a deep breath, feeling dizzy and wonderful and happy all at once. She moved her arm until her hand found Harry's, and she felt him turn towards her. They both sat in silence, their breathing filling the sitting room.

"Do you know I think we've done it in every room this weekend?" she asked, her voice sounding far away.

"And with every piece of furniture too," Harry said, his voice sounding shaky.

Ginny smirked and opened her eyes, turning her head to look at him. "Well, we haven't done anything involving the desk in the study."

Harry groaned and then opened his eyes, looking at her. "As brilliant as that would be, right now, all I want is to just sit on something soft and not move. Ever again."

Ginny tutted and moved closer to him, wincing as her body let her know she'd been in one position too long. "I don't know why you're so sore, you're not the one that was bent over the bloody sofa arm."

"Yes, but the angle, it was hard to balance," Harry said, smirking at her as she settled into his arms. She lay against his lap and looked up at him. "And you kept saying, 'deeper Harry, deeper'...what's a bloke to do? One must do what the lady requests. Or die trying, at any rate."

Ginny rolled her eyes and moved her hand up to his neck, pulling him forward. They kissed, and she sighed contentedly. "Rubbish. You enjoyed it too, I know you did Harry. Besides, today is only Saturday, I reckon we have plenty of time for the desk later."

He didn't say anything and closed his eyes again, but he was grinning as he rested his head against the back of the sofa.

"I'm hungry," Ginny said after a little while, and Harry erupted into laughter, making her frown. "What?"

"We just had lunch not too long ago, or did you forget?" Harry asked, sounding amused.

"Bah. That was hardly lunch. A half-sandwich and some measly soup. A growing Weasley needs sustenance."

Harry looked down at her, shaking his head. "All right, Ron."

Ginny stuck her tongue out at him. "Hmm. Now I know why Ron is always hungry; he must have been shagging since the age of eleven."

Harry snorted, and she felt his hand in her hair. "Well, don't look at me; I haven't been helping him with anything. Anything he's done in that arena is strictly between him, his hand, and Hermione."

Ginny giggled and then sobered as she realized something. Harry noticed and frowned at her.

"Hey, what's wrong?" he said as he smoothed her hair.

"I just remembered I never told Ron about Percy," she said, meeting his gaze.

"Did you want to?"

Ginny frowned. "I don't know. He should know; my whole family should know, but...I don't want to be the one to tell them. Is that selfish, do you think?" She looked up at him, and he smiled at her, shaking his head.

"No. I think it's...you're just protecting them from something that will hurt."

"Hmm," Ginny said, thinking about it. She knew if she told Ron about Percy, he would be agitated because she knew even though he liked to act like George and Fred about it, the truth was that Ron still believed in Percy not being completely bad. As for her parents...there was no way she was going to be the one to break that to them. She supposed she could tell Bill, but then that felt like a cheat somehow, putting the burden of it onto him. Ginny felt cold inside as she remembered the way Percy had hurt her, the shaky way he had raised his wand, and the sharp pungent scent of something that had filled her senses...

"We haven't really talked about him," Harry said quietly, breaking her out of her thoughts. She sighed and sat up, pulling her legs up under her as she turned to face Harry. He linked his hand with hers and didn't say anything, watching her face.

"Because there's nothing to say that hasn't already been said. He's a traitor. He tried to hurt me. He's the reason Charlie is dead, and Mum was attacked. You said it yourself, Harry. You saw him while you were in Voldemort's head. What other proof do we need?"

"Even though I know all of that is true and I want to hex him for what he's done to you...he's still your brother. And maybe Ron deserves to know, Gin. Maybe the two of you can talk about it or...well, write to each other about it."

Ginny sniffed quietly. Harry squeezed her hand and she met his eyes. "I know. It's just...that's what makes it all the more...painful, I guess. Being away from them all and having this knowledge about him." She paused and leaned forward, touching Harry's face with her hand. "Don't tell Ron, okay? Let's just...keep it to ourselves."

"I still think you should tell Ron, at least," Harry finally said, putting his hand over hers. "He's not going to like the fact that we knew...but I reckon since I kept it from you to begin with, I'm in no position to plead that side of the case."

Ginny nodded, and Harry moved closer to her, putting his arms around her. She sighed as they rested against each other. She knew it was a fallacy and a bit foolish, but as long as they had each other, she felt as though she could indeed face anything. She knew she would have to eventually deal with the issue of Percy, but right now, being with Harry, she didn't dare let the dark thoughts in.

o-o-o-o-o

Harry awoke early Sunday morning, despite the fact he and Ginny had spent most of Saturday talking late into the night (he reckoned he would be able to catch up on sleep when he was back at school). He blinked at the fuzzy shape of the canopy above him, and his arm automatically reached out and found his glasses. He turned and was unsurprised to see Ginny was awake as well. She smiled as their eyes met and leaned over, kissing him.

"What were you doing?" he asked finally, as she rolled back to her side of the bed.

"Nothing," she said, her cheeks turning pink.

"You were watching me sleep, weren't you?" he asked coyly, turning on his side and propping his head upon his hand.

"I was not," she said softly.

Harry grinned at her. "Liar. And remember, I can tell when you're untruthful," he said, tapping his head.

Ginny pursed her lips and rolled over on her back. "I just wanted to make certain I got a good enough look at you before you leave."

Her voice sounded small and cheerless, and he sighed, moving closer to her. His hand traveled underneath the duvet until he could touch her, putting his arm around her waist. He pulled her on her side again, so that he could see her eyes.

"I have hours before I leave," he said, settling her against him. "We have plenty of time to introduce the desk in the study to one of our formidable backsides."

Ginny smirked and shook her head. "I know, it's just...I already miss you. Explain to me again why this separation is a good thing?"

Harry sighed and shifted so that she could rest her head on his chest. "Because I want you to be safe."

"I only feel safe when I'm with you."

"And what if I did something to ruin that?"

Ginny moved her head and looked up at him. "Harry, I know you would never do that willingly."

Harry sighed. "Yes, well, that's the keyword there, isn't it? Willingly."

Ginny sat back and looked at him. "I don't want to have a row on our last morning together, but...Harry...sometimes, I feel like you're doing this on purpose."

Harry frowned as she sat up, moving away from him. "What does that mean?" he asked.

Ginny sat up and leaned off the bed, pulling on her dressing gown. She turned and looked at him. "It's easier not having me around, isn't it?"

Harry snorted. "Being away from you is a lot of things, but easy definitely isn't one of them."

"But you don't have to worry, do you?" Ginny said, sitting down on the edge of the bed. "With me here, stashed at the abbey...you have some peace of mind, don't you?"

Harry sighed and put his hands behind his head, keeping his eyes on hers. "Yes, that was one of the main reasons I decided this would be the best place for you. I don't have to worry about Draco trying something or Voldemort attacking and getting to you. I don't have to worry about me..."

Harry let his voice trail off, the unspoken words seeming to wait between them. Ginny looked down at her hands. When she finally met his eyes again, there were unshed tears in them, and Harry felt a pain in his chest.

"You do realize I don't have that, right? That complete certainty that you're okay? You do realize that I lie in this bed, worrying and thinking about you and feeling absolutely powerless to do anything to protect you. You do see how unfair this is, right?"

Harry nodded and reached out, holding her hand. "But you are protecting me...my head...keeping it closed off to him. I haven't forgotten that. And you don't know what it feels like to be myself, for once. But I'm still...I don't trust myself, and I'm sorry for that, and I know this is unfair to you, Gin. If there was any other way..."

Ginny nodded her head, looking away again. Harry sat up and put his arms around her, hugging her close. "You're the only thing in my life I've ever truly loved," Harry said quietly.

Ginny pushed him away and shook her head. "That's not true, Harry. You love Ron and Hermione...you loved Sirius. You love my family. You love a lot of things, not just me."

"Those are people I care a great deal about, yes," Harry said, pausing, wiping away at the tear that had fallen from her eye. "But I don't think I would ever...look when Sirius was killed, I wanted to die. When Hermione was hurt, I was scared, and when Ron was attacked by those brain things, I was worried. And yes, your family is extremely important to me, but Gin...none of those things makes me want to survive the way you do. None of those things make me want to...they don't make me want to kill him."

Ginny blinked at him, surprised, and he met her gaze, nodding his head. "And he knows this, Ginny. He's felt it inside me from the first. That's why he really wants you; because he knows hurting you would kill me."

Ginny sniffed and nodded. "I know; he told me as much. He likes you weak...he thinks by taking me that you will fail."

"He's right."

Ginny glared at him. "You have to be stronger than that, Harry."

"I know, Gin. But the truth is...I'm not."

Ginny shook her head and pulled away from him, standing up. "So...what are you saying? If something should happen to me, he...he wins?"

Harry shrugged and didn't meet her eyes, not saying anything.

Ginny made a strangled noise at the back of her throat and then kneeled down, her hands resting on the duvet. He finally looked at her, and she shook her head.

"That's got to stop, right now, Harry. I can't be the reason you do everything. You have to do things for yourself. For your survival. You have to want to...get rid of him for your own reasons. You can't make me be your...saving grace, Harry."

"Why not?"

"Because...god, Harry, if something does happen to me, I'd really like to know that you're going to keep on fighting him. He doesn't deserve to win because of me."

"If something happens to you, then he already has," Harry said truthfully. Ginny swore and stood up. She sat down next to him on the bed again.

"Harry, that's...that's so much pressure," she said, looking at him.

"Why do you think I wanted you to be at the abbey?" he said, touching her hand.

"Oh, my love, I...I love the fact that you care more about me than your own self - I feel the same way. But...Harry...if I die...you can't let that be the end."

"If I face him and he kills me, are you saying you'd just go on with your life then, is that it?" Harry asked.

"No, you know I'd die too, but I thought we've talked about this?" Ginny asked, frowning. "And besides, my life isn't as important as yours, and you know it. Only you have the power to defeat him, Harry. If I die, the whole world doesn't get destroyed with me."

"It does to me."

Ginny rubbed her temple. "Yes, but my life doesn't matter, Harry. Don't you see that?"

Harry sighed and let go of her hand. "And I'm telling you it does; maybe not to Dumbledore, maybe not to anyone else, but it matters to me, and since I'm the one destined to fight the bastard, quite frankly, Ginny, I'm the only one who counts. So yes, it's unfair of me to ask you to do this - to tell you to stay hiding somewhere - but I'd do it, again and again, to keep you safe because you are all that matters to me."

"And I'm telling you that you have to love life itself, not just me," Ginny said, her voice determined as she stood up again. "One person can't be that important, Harry. I can't be more important to you than you are to yourself, don't you see that? When you face Voldemort, you have to do it because...because you know that the time has come, that you're strong because of you, not because of me. That's the only way you're going to win."

Harry didn't say anything, and after a moment, he felt her arms on his shoulders, and he looked up at her. She shook her head and touched his face, and he wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to him. He loved her so much; she had no idea how much she had changed him. He could understand what she was saying, but it didn't matter - loving her was loving life, to him. He recognized that now, and he suddenly felt angry, because Snape had been right about one thing - Harry had made Ginny a target by loving her. He knew now that he would do anything to make sure that Voldemort never capitalized on that mistake.

But then, even as he thought it, he knew that loving Ginny wasn't a mistake. Harry knew she made him feel whole, and it wasn't just because of her ability to protect him. It was her, herself. She complemented him in a way that no one else ever had, and he hoped that he did the same to her. He again felt amazingly fortunate that he hadn't let her slip away from him. She murmured his name, causing him to break out of his thoughts and look up at her. He reached up and pulled her down into his arms, kissing her. His hand slipped between them, touching her, and he felt her heart beating underneath his fingers, and he knew without a doubt that it matched the beating of his own.

o-o-o-o-o

"This is what the Dark Lord wants?" Lucius Malfoy looked at Percy Weasley, and then down at the piece of old parchment he'd been given, not entirely certain he had understood what he had just been told. The other man nodded.

"He believes it will be useful for the spell he wishes to do. Ancient magic has always called on such things."

Lucius sneered. "I know what ancient magic calls on, boy. I was a Death Eater and in service to the Dark Lord while you were still in swaddling clothes," he paused and then took a deep breath, holding his temper. "How does the Master expect this to be done?"

"I am to go to the cemetery to retrieve it," the young man said, and Lucius could see the glint of satisfaction in his eyes to be called upon to do service. "You are to attack the school."

Lucius raised an eyebrow. "Attack the school? And how exactly am I to do that single-handedly?"

"The dementors will go with you, as will Wormtail and the others. The Dark Lord wishes Dumbledore to believe that it is a full-scale attack. To distract him."

Lucius didn't say anything and turned, looking into the fire. Finally, he felt Weasley turn, as though he were leaving, and Lucius spoke before the other man left the room.

"You have done many things to make the Dark Lord trust you, Weasley. For some reason, he has accepted you into his ranks quicker and more easily than others. I can only hope his faith in you has not been in vain. Because I will hunt you down until my last breath, should betrayal be on your mind."

Lucius turned and gave the young man a look, to make sure they understood each other. Weasley nodded his head and then turned, leaving him alone. He narrowed his eyes as he looked back down at the fire and then turned to read the piece of parchment, once again.

"Essence of the father in the blood of the enemy

bones of the mother, and the power will yield.

And that which was divided shall then become whole, once more."

o-o-o-o-o

*Opening quote from Paul Simon, a very wise writer of negotiations and love songs.