Author's Note: So. That happened. This chapter is exactly what it is titled - an interlude. The plot picks up again in the next chapter, have no fear. But I felt all parties concerned needed this. Including your author. I stand by my choices, even if it is not clear why it had to happen like this yet. I never set out to write it this way - it happened organically within the story and I am sorry if you felt cheated, wronged, pissed off, disgusted etc. I can only write what the story dictated. Writing this has changed me as it has changed them and it comes from a place of honesty and love for these characters.


Chapter 50: Interlude

The next week at Thorn Rose Cottage passed much as usual – except now Harry and Ginny were joined by Brogan every night. But Harry and Ginny made a conscious effort to be downstairs more and spend time with Ron and Hermione. Once or twice Ginny had felt sad that she and Harry were allowed to basically act like a couple in front of them while Brogan sat off to the side, alone. She saw the relief and the change that would come over him more than once or twice, as soon as their bedroom door closed behind him and he could truly be himself with them.

Despite how the beginning of their little threesome had begun, they did not have wild sex every night. Ginny found herself enjoying those nights just as well – they simply held each other and talked. Brogan told them about growing up in Ireland and then traveling around America, his voice taking on a yearning quality as he talked of his mother. Harry and Ginny would usually wrap themselves around him if, for some reason, a particular story made him appear sadder than normal. She knew the death of his Mum still haunted him, and had left an open wound in his heart that she didn't think he had ever allowed to fully heal. She often wondered how long it had been since he'd allow himself to talk about her with someone else.

It was on exactly the eighth day after their new relationship had begun when Ginny woke up with a crippling pain in her abdomen. She realized then that she was more than a week late for her precious honor of womanhood. Perhaps all the sex her body had been having wasn't a good thing – she couldn't remember the last time she had felt such horrible cramps.

She must have whimpered out loud because the bed shifted and two arms wrapped around her middle, holding her tightly. Harry kissed her neck and lifted his head.

"Ginny? What's wrong?"

Ginny shook her head and burrowed deeper into the bed, curling into herself. She was soon joined by Brogan on her other side, and his hand lifted her hair out of the way, cupping her face.

"What's wrong with her?"

"I think she has cramps," Harry said softly, and she felt the bed dip as he sat up. "I'm going to get her a pain potion from downstairs. Just keep her warm. It helps."

Brogan wrapped his arms around her and she nestled into them. He kissed the top of her head, whispering something to her that she couldn't make out, but it felt soothing.

"How about you take a hot bubble bath?" Brogan asked, and Ginny nodded. She felt numb and unable to even form words. He pulled away from her and the door to the loo opened. She heard the water come on and after a short while, Brogan was back, lifting her out of the bed. He sat her down on the edge of the tub and removed her dressing gown gently. His lips brushed against her forehead. "Do you need help getting in?"

Ginny shook her head and turned her legs so that they slipped into the water. Somehow he'd made it just right – not too hot and she lowered herself down into the bubble-filled water. He kneeled down by the tub and reached for her hand, squeezing it. He closed his eyes, murmuring something that was probably Irish Gaelic and Ginny felt the knot in her back start to relax. She suddenly felt as though she were human again. A soothing feeling of peace and tranquillity filled her and she smiled at Brogan.

"What did you do?" she asked, marveling.

Harry came in through the door then carrying a small blue bottle. He went to the other side of the tub and handed it to her. "Here, drink up."

She took it from him and uncorked it, swallowing the slightly metallic tasting potion. She lay back against the rim of the tub and looked at Brogan, raising her eyebrow.

"My Mum, that is, when she was sick, taught that to me. It's just a small spell to loosen up tight muscles. She er, used to get pretty wicked back spasms before she died. She taught it to me I think because she could tell I wanted to help but I think I was too young for it to do much good." Brogan frowned to himself, and she squeezed his hand.

"Well, it's worked wonders now, thank you. And thank you, Harry. The potion is already helping the tightness in my stomach."

"Want us to join you?" Harry asked, looking at the tub as though he were about to enlarge it. Ginny shook her head. "We could wash your hair for you."

"No, just let me rest by myself for awhile." She smiled gently at him to let him know she appreciated the offer.

They left her alone, but left the door open a crack in case she needed them. Ginny sank down lower into the bubbles and sighed.

Ginny waited until the water started to turn cold and then lifted herself out of the tub. The bubbles had all but washed away and she used a towel to dry off. She fluffed out her hair behind her as she slid her dressing gown over her shoulders. She had been hearing the constant rumble of Brogan's voice for awhile and wondered what they were getting into out there.

When she re-entered the bedroom she that saw Brogan and Harry had curled up together on the bed. Brogan had a book in front of him, reading as Harry rested his head against him. They both looked at her as she came out of the loo.

"You know, Brogan, Harry's been doing his own reading for quite some time now," she said smiling. "At least since fifth year."

"Hah-hah, what a dead funny girlfriend I have," Harry said, scooting over as she climbed onto the bed. He nodded towards the middle and she settled in-between them.

"You're feeling better," Harry noted, and he sighed as he wrapped his arms around her. "And you smell nice, too. Well, nicer. You always smell nice."

Ginny kissed his hand and looked over at Brogan. "What are we reading?"

"Irish folk tales," Harry answered for him, resting his head on Ginny's side. "And he's got a great voice, so don't make fun of me for wanting to hear it."

Ginny smiled as Brogan blushed at Harry's words. "Well, come on then, read to me, too. As I convalescence."

Harry chuckled against her back and squeezed her tightly. "I love you, Gin."

Brogan started to read again, and Ginny realized Harry had been right – he had a very nice voice for reading aloud. She remembered the time she had heard him singing in his office at the start of term and marveled at how far they had come as friends. Well, more than friends, at this point. She lay her head against the pillow as Brogan began the tale of Bethesda O'Kinney and the Case of the Missing Satsuma. Her cramping was beginning to fade and she felt good as Harry kissed her back every so often, nuzzling against her. It was very cozy, and Ginny didn't want it to end.

o-o-o-o-o

Not much later, after they realized their private morning had to conclude sometime, Ginny made herself comfortable on the couch as Brogan, Ron and Harry went up to the training room to practice. Harry was talking excitedly about some new thing they were going to try with floating statues and she shook her head. There was a fire going next to her and Brogan had made sure she had plenty of tea and dry toast nearby to help soothe her stomach. Her body was no longer spasming but she still felt an echo of painful ache.

She was just munching on her second piece of bread when Hermione joined her.

"Feeling better?" Hermione asked as she settled in against the other side of the couch. Ginny nodded, watching her friend.

"Didn't you want to practice with the boys?" Ginny finally asked.

"Oh, no, I'll let them bond or whatever it is they do," Hermione said, a peculiar sound in her voice. Ginny didn't say anything, and looked back down at the book she'd been reading. But she knew it wouldn't be long.

Hermione waited at least half a minute before speaking again, and Ginny hid a smile behind her hand, despite the nervous jolt to her stomach.

"So are you going to tell me what's going on with you and Brogan and Harry or just let me use my imagination and logical deductions?"

Ginny kept her eyes on her book and casually reached for her tea. "I don't know what you're talking about Hermione."

"Oh? Brogan hasn't been spending an inordinate amount of time in your bedroom up there? And there haven't been Silencing Spells cast every time the door closes?"

Ginny sighed and looked at her friend. "Whatever you think you know, you don't."

Hermione raised an eyebrow in response. "Ron has even noticed, but he thinks it's because you three are researching Aine again. But I've noticed Brogan is not in his bedroom most nights."

Ginny frowned. "What are you doing checking up on Brogan in his bedroom?"

Hermione sighed, sounding exasperated. "I'm not, but he's left the door open a few times, and I've noticed on my way to the kitchen that he's either the world's most peaceful sleeper or his bed's not been slept in! Ginny, give me some credit and cut the codswallop. Level with me. What is going on?"

Ginny rested her face in her hands, to hide her face, knowing her face was probably bright red. When she felt as though her emotions were more under control, she looked up at her friend. She expected Hermione to look judgmental or scandalized, but her friend's face was surprisingly neutral. The other girl's brown eyes did look worried though.

"I don't…I don't really want to say anything without them here," Ginny eventually said, because it was true.

"So it is like that?" Hermione asked, looking just a tiny bit pleased she had figured it out. Ginny rolled her eyes at her friend.

"Yes, you're brilliant, you figured it out. But…" Ginny stopped not sure what she wanted to say.

"But you're okay?" Hermione said, reaching for her hand. She squeezed it, and looked imploringly at Ginny. "You're not doing anything you don't want to do, are you? They're not forcing you into this arrangement?"

Ginny shook her head. "No! Of course, not. Harry isn't like that, and Brogan isn't either."

Hermione stared at her for a moment and then patted her hand. "I just wanted to make sure you were… all right."

Ginny was silent for a minute and then reached over and hugged her friend. "Thank you for caring and not judging me or us."

Hermione rested her head against hers and hugged her back. "If it makes you happy, Ginny, and yes, I have also noticed how happy the three of you seem to be lately, especially Brogan, then I simply can't judge you. I love you and Harry, you know that I hope. You two are like the brother and sister I never had."

"We didn't plan on it," Ginny said slowly, still feeling the need to explain. "It just sort of happened. I think Aine has something to do with how we feel. But Brogan has…Brogan has had an emotional connection to us for a while, Hermione. He's become a part of us, and it just felt like the natural thing to do." And even as Ginny said it out loud, she knew it was the truth. From the start of their journey together, the pieces had been there between the three of them. Waiting to be put together.

Hermione squeezed her hand. "I learned early on that the human heart is a mystery, Ginny. It wants what it wants. And if this…is what the three of you want, with no one forcing the other, then I'll stand by you."

The two girls sat there for a moment in silence and then they heard a rather loud thump sound from up above them. Hermione pulled a way and looked at the ceiling. "I reckon I should go up and there and see what that was about and make sure they all still have their limbs."

Ginny laughed and the other girl went up the stairs, her wand already in her hand. Ginny thought about all the awkward turns that conversation could have taken and she was grateful Hermione was so brilliant and intelligent. Ginny yawned and thought about moving to the bedroom. Since everything had occurred she realized she hadn't been getting as much rest as usual. But maybe with her body out of commission that would change. Or I could just help Brogan and Harry out a lot more, she smiled to herself.

Ginny hadn't said so to Hermione, but she was fairly shocked at herself. When left to her own devices and private thoughts, she was utterly unashamed about being with the both of them. It worried her, the not being scandalized at her own wickedness if she thought about it too long, so she didn't. But talking with Hermione had reminded her that the outside world had very distinct views about women who did what she did. Ginny felt as though she were a strong enough person to ignore most of it. Because after all of it was said and done, it felt nice and it felt good, what the three of them did together. And she knew they all loved each other. Well, she wasn't certain it was love exactly, between her and Brogan, but she cared for him quite a bit. She didn't know how Harry felt exactly either, but she could tell he wasn't upset or jealous or anything like that. His openness actually surprised her sometimes. Not to mention the power flares they all seem to get from Aine made them all extremely…eager.

Musing to herself, she got up and stretched and smiled as she heard another thump from upstairs. Whatever was happening up there sounded rather interesting. But instead of heading to the third floor, she paused at the bedroom and went to the bed instead. Maybe she would have just a brief nap. She pulled the pillow closer to her and smiled because it smelled like Brogan and Harry both – a warm, woodsy and citrusy scent. Ginny drifted off, thinking of the two men in her life, and feeling rather lucky.

o-o-o-o-o

When she woke up later, Harry was lying next to her, a book in his hand. His eyes flicked to hers.

"Hey, sleepy-head. You were starting to worry me a bit, you were dead to the world."

Ginny stretched and looked around. "Where's Brogan?"

"His turn to cook," Harry said, closing the book and slipping it on the bedside table. He scooted down, and Ginny moved into his arms. She listened to the sound of his heart beating, running her fingers around on his chest in little half-circles.

"Harry, how do you feel about Brogan?"

Harry's chest shook in silent laughter and she looked at him. He smirked at her. "Great conversation starter, Gin."

"Well, I was talking with Hermione…"

"Wait, what?" Harry said, his arm suddenly gripping her tightly. She placed a calming hand on his chest, meeting his eyes.

"She figured it out – I couldn't keep it from her. She said she's noticed how happy we've been and how happy Brogan has been and also…well. He tends to leave his bedroom door open and she's noticed his bed hasn't been slept in."

Harry shook his head. "And he's supposed to be the clever one!" Harry's expression grew solemn. "How did she react when you confirmed it? I mean, I am assuming you did, right?"

"I blushed bright red and she sussed it out," Ginny said grumpily, and Harry chuckled again.

"Oh, those Weasley blushes. I'm not angry at you, I know how Hermione is. Was she…weirded out?"

Ginny shook her head. "No, that's the odd thing. She wanted to make sure you two weren't forcing me to do anything against my will or if I was uncomfortable with anything. And when I confirmed that yes, I was a willing partner, she merely said she loves us and wants us to be happy."

Harry nodded, staring off into space for awhile. He eventually looked over at her again. "So then why did you first ask about my feelings for Brogan?"

Ginny looked away and shrugged. "I just realized I didn't…know. We…and by we, I mean you and me, haven't really talked about this."

Harry touched her chin and turned her face to his. "What are you worried about? I thought we agreed no jealousies?"

"I'm not jealous really, it's not that. I mean, I don't even know how I feel about him myself – I guess what I mean is, do you love him? I care about him, a lot, and it feels like love sometimes, but it's completely different than how I feel about you."

"I know what you mean," Harry said quietly. "I love you, and it's like there – bright in the center of everything I want, and then there's Brogan, who I like, and enjoy talking to and being with and snogging, obviously, as well all the other things we do and…I don't know, maybe it's just too soon to say love. But there are feelings there."

Ginny nodded and lay back down, resting her head on his chest again. Harry started running his hand through her hair.

"He really does love us, though," Harry said after a long while. "He hasn't said it, but I feel it. Every time he touches us. That thing he does with his emotions…he puts it into every touch."

Ginny knew what he meant. Brogan was becoming less inhibited the more they were together. Hermione was right, he had been happier lately than Ginny could ever remember seeing him. She knew his feelings for the both of them were deep. She didn't want anything they did to hurt him down the line.

She turned her head and looked at Harry. "Let's be careful with him. I don't want to hurt him. He's too...he's precious to me. Although he would probably roll his eyes at that word."

Harry smirked. "Yeah, not a lot of blokes want to be known as precious. But I know what you mean. We can only try our best and do what we think is right by him. And right by each other. It's not like there is a handbook for this situation."

"Now that would be an interesting book to read," Ginny said, giggling.

"Threesomes and How to Do It," Harry said, chuckling.

"Pun intended?" Ginny asked smiling.

Harry nodded. They heard a noise on the stairs and both looked toward the open doorway. Hermione poked her head around it a moment later. "I've been sent to fetch you to dinner," she said sardonically. "The cook thinks you've been up here lollygagging long enough."

"I have woman problems," Ginny said laying back. "Have him bring the food to me."

Hermione rolled her eyes as Harry hit Ginny with a pillow. "Get up, you lazy git," he said, laughing. Ginny pretended to pout until he pulled her up off the bed and hugged her.

"I'll tell him you'll be down soon then?" Hermione said winking at them as she left. Ginny looked at Harry.

"Hi there," she said, noticing his eyes were bright as he looked at her.

"I love you, Ginny Weasley," he said, holding her close. He brought his hand down to hers and looked at her ring. "Never doubt that."

Ginny shook her head. "Never. I promise."

"I'm still going to marry you someday, you know," Harry said, serious all of a sudden. "No matter what."

"I know, Harry," she said softly, and they kissed, sealing the deal ahead of time.

o-o-o-o-o

After dinner, Hermione decided to read, and Harry and Ron decided they would try getting an old box of Gobstones to function and attempt to play it. That left Ginny and Brogan to fend for themselves until he found an old deck of Muggle playing cards in the desk. He was trying to teach her how to play Gin Rummy.

"But, you don't drink during this game?" Ginny was asked, frowning at her cards. Brogan bit back a laugh.

"No, and I don't really want to handle you drunk later."

Ginny raised an eyebrow at him, her brown eyes filling with mischief. "Oh, really?"

Brogan glanced around the room, aware of where they were and grinned at her. "I seem to recall that mead making you very happy indeed," he softly.

Ginny's cheeks turned slightly pink and she looked around the room too. "And I seem to recall moving rather seductively to the music you'd picked, yes. Maybe later you can play some more, and I can really do an interpretative dance for you."

She leaned forward as she played her card and winked at him, knowing exactly what he was thinking. He could only shake his head at her and take a deep breath before the two of them really started flirting.

"Behave, Miss Weasley," he said, trying to sound stern.

"Or what? You'll send me to my room? Do wicked things to me? Too late," Ginny said, looked pleased and skeptical both at same time. She batted her eyelashes at him, and Brogan couldn't help it, he laughed out loud. The rest of the room's occupants stopped what they were doing and three pairs of eyes turned their direction. Harry's seemed especially amused.

Brogan bowed his head and tried to focus on his cards. "Shut it, and stop making me laugh."

Ginny looked around and then leaned closer so that her face was inches from his. "Make me," she whispered, her voice seeming to travel down his neck and straight to his groin. He half-groaned and looked at her eyes – they were fully dilated but full of humor. She winked at him again and then sat back, looking at her cards.

"Hey, I think I have Rummy or whatever – look!"

"Shite," Brogan said, frowning. "You do. I thought you'd never played this before?"

"I'm a quick learner, apparently," Ginny said, her voice making that sound more lewd than it should have. Brogan shook his head at her as Harry came over to them.

"All right, you two?"

They both looked at the knowing smile on his face. Brogan shook his head. "She's playing unfairly and…" he paused, lowering his voice. "Flirting with me."

Harry glanced behind him as Ron joined Hermione on the couch, who were not paying any attention to them. "She does like to do that to get her way," Harry said, looking amused. Ginny, for her part, looked affronted.

"I do not! Take that back, Harry. That would be very un-sportswoman-like of me, you know."

"Not to mention impossible to do during Quidditch," Harry said, smirking. But he relented and held up his hands. "All right, Gin, I take it back. You play fair and square and never use your very fit womanly aspects to get your way. Ever."

Ginny grinned at him rather cheekily, Brogan thought. "Maybe we should turn in," he said, after a moment. Harry and Ginny pulled their eyes away from each other's and nodded. Brogan got up to go to his room, giving them a look. He wanted to make sure they understood he would join them as soon as possible.

Hermione suddenly closed her book with a snap and shook Ron's head off her shoulder. "Why don't we all turn in early?" She looked pointedly at Ron and then at the three of them.

Brogan frowned as they all said good night and stared after the other couple. He looked at Harry and Ginny who were waiting at the foot of the stairs for him.

"Does Hermione know?" Brogan asked them and they glanced at each other.

"Er, well," Harry started, and Ginny touched his arm. She gestured towards Brogan to be quiet and to follow them up the stairs.

Once inside the room he cast the Silencing Spell out of habit, and put his hands on his hips. "Well?"

"She figured it out," Ginny said, starting to get undressed. Harry handed her her nightgown and he started to remove his shirt.

"But? How? Did she hear us? Does Ron know? Are they …do they hate me?" Brogan sat down at desk and felt a burst of nerves settle in his stomach.

Harry, came over to him, still in his jeans. He held up his hand. "One, she's Hermione. She figured it out. Two, no she didn't hear us. It seems someone leaves his bedroom door open and she noticed his bed hadn't been slept in. Three, no, Ron, doesn't know, and it will stay that way until the end of time as far I am concerned." He finished counting down with his fingers and kneeled in front of Brogan. His green eyes searched his, growing darker.

Harry brought his mouth close to his and then started kissing him along his jawline. Brogan felt the nerves in his stomach transform into something else entirely. He closed his eyes, murmuring to himself as Harry's mouth found a sensitive spot on his neck. He allowed himself to give in as Harry's lips finally moved back to his, kissing him fully. Brogan felt compelled to throw his arms around Harry, half-dragging him up the chair and into his embrace.

They were all tangled limbs and heavy breathing for a moment until they heard Ginny clear her throat behind them. The pulled away from each other and looked at her. Brogan felt his cheeks heat.

"The bed is much more comfortable, you two. Not that I can really do anything except watch and use these," she raised her hands up, shaking them. She looked upset for a moment. "Stupid body."

Brogan and Harry disentangled themselves and went to her. Brogan put his arm around her and kissed the top of her head. "You can still have sex during your monthly cycle you know, it's just…messier."

"Oh? Really?" she said, snorting at him. She pulled back and looked at him. "And how would you know, Mr Caley? Something you've tried before?"

"No, something I read," Brogan said, grinning a little. "In a book."

Ginny rolled her eyes and looked at Harry. He was watching her.

"Gin's never wanted us to do it during this part of the month, but I never really thought I would have a problem with it, to be honest. My body always wants yours," he said, resting his head on her shoulder.

Ginny shook her head and looked at both of them. "It's just…ugh. Gross to me. Sorry, boys."

"It should makes your cramping better, though," Brogan insisted, wrapping his hands around her middle. "Orgasms cause endorphins which help with pain."

He blushed when they both stared at him. "Sorry, one of the Muggles I lived with was a biology fan."

Ginny shrugged. "They're not bad now. It's mostly faded. I just have tenderness in places. I usually just give Harry an amazing experience and I feel sexually sated just from that. It's how we've worked around the Spell in the past."

"An amazing experience," Brogan repeated, raising his eyebrows at her. "Do tell."

"No, let her show you," Harry said smiling. "You're going to love it. I'm going to love it."

"Harry! You're making me feel pressured to give the best nosh off he's ever had or something. Stop it."

Harry didn't say anything and lay back on the bed. They both looked at him and then at each other. Brogan was about to tell her she didn't need to do anything for him at all, it would keep until they could all enjoy each other, but her eyes darkened considerable and she licked her lips as she looked at him.

"I reckon I do like a challenge, though," she said, her voice sounding husky. "And I do like to do it to Harry. Almost more than anything."

"You did it before in the training room, it's okay," Brogan said, still unsure. Harry shook his head at him.

"No, mate, that was nothing."

Ginny grinned, looking frankly turned on by the idea and tugged at his shirt. "You are way over dressed for this activity, Brogan."

Shaking his head at the two of them, he undressed and then lay down on the bed, next to Harry, who remained semi-clothed. Harry's hand immediately went to Brogan's hair, massaging his scalp in a soothing motion.

"What about you?" Brogan said, glancing upwards at the other man. Harry gave him a gentle smile.

"I'll be more than fine, don't worry."

Brogan turned back to Ginny, who was removing her gown. She was only in her knickers and Brogan felt his mouth run dry as he drank her in. He followed her freckles all the way down and then back up. When he met her eyes, she was smiling that devilish smile again, and she looked…well, she looked hungry. For him.

She pushed his legs apart and traveled upwards, over his body. Her hand paused and played with trail of hair he had that started at his bellybutton and moved downwards to his groin. His body was standing up at attention and ready. Ginny's eyes strayed upwards and she looked at Harry.

"Why don't you hold him, love, I think he'd like that."

"Brilliant idea as always, Gin," Harry said, his voice low. Harry shifted, and Brogan sat up briefly and then Harry's arms were wrapping around and settling him against his body. The rough feel of Harry's jeans dug into his back a little bit, but Brogan thought he sort of liked it. He looked up at Harry, who bowed his head and kissed him, sweetly. Ginny's hand took hold of him at the same time and his leg jerked out in response.

Ginny tsked at him. "So sensitive."

"No, you two are just so effing hot, I almost can't control myself," he admitted gruffly.

Harry's arms rested against his and relaxed. He brought one of his hands up and continued rubbing Brogan's scalp and Brogan felt the trace of his lips against his head.

Ginny lowered herself down and threw her hair over her shoulder. Brogan felt his heart-rate quicken at the sight. Her hair was so…absolutely fantastic. He reached out and touched it, loving the silky feel of it gliding through his fingers. She smiled knowingly at him and then brought her face down to his very apparent appreciation of her. He watched as her face transformed from teasing to complete ravenous hunger and sucked in a breath. Her eyes met his as she slowly licked her way up his shaft, her hand gently cupping his balls. A flare of magic went through them both and Brogan could only whimper as her mouth finally closed around the head.

His whole body felt as though it were caught in the middle of something hot and luscious. He vaguely felt Harry's arms around him as he bucked slightly off the bed. Ginny's hand held him down as she began to suck him in earnest. She kept making these little half-moans of pleasure that were driving him insane already. Her head went down and then back up and every time she reached the top, she'd look at him, as though making sure he liked it. Brogan could only marvel at her and swore loudly as she swirled her tongue around him in the most delicious way. He remembered Harry and glanced upward to find the other man watching her too, his lip rather intensely between his teeth . Brogan reached up, and tugged on his head. Harry looked down and his eyes were so dark they were almost black.

"Kiss me," Brogan whispered, needing to have Harry be a part of this as well.

Harry brought his head down and opened his mouth with his tongue, and Brogan pushed himself off the bed to better reach him. It was a divinely deep kiss, and Brogan felt his body was close to that delirious edge. Ginny scrapped her finger nails against his leg, reminding him he was missing the show and he pulled his mouth away from Harry and they both watched her.

Ginny had shifted forward and now, noticing she had their attention again, slipped her breasts closer to Brogan's body. Brogan swore and gave himself over to her – he was hers – she was theirs – they were all together. The flare of power filled him and with one last delicious feel of Ginny's wonderful mouth taking him all the way in, he let himself go and his body bucked as he came half-shouting out her name.

Brogan was aware of Ginny's mouth still surrounding him. He knew she must have swallowed what his body had released and was astounded by it. She slowly removed herself and then crawled over him until she was looking into his eyes.

"Hi," she said, her cheeks turning pink. "Did you…I mean, was it? All right?"

Brogan pulled her down for a kiss and gripped her with his hands, pulling her into his arms.

"I fucking loved it," he said, not caring how shameless he sounded. "And you enjoyed it too, didn't you?"

Ginny blushed but nodded and then looked upward at Harry. "Love?"

Harry sighed, and Brogan became aware of a hardness at his back. He and Ginny shifted and sat up, both turning to look at the other man.

"Your turn," Brogan said, nodding at him. "Get those jeans off or I'll rip them off."

Ginny chuckled, a low and throaty sound. "My, my, what a change. Where has our shy and inhibited Brogan gone to Harry?"

Harry smiled at them as he removed his jeans and boxes. He climbed back onto the bed, settling himself back against the pillows. "I don't know. But I think he left for good when you made him feel so wanted just now."

Brogan could only shake his head at them as he turned his attention to Harry. He touched the other man gently at first and then quickly strengthened his grasp. He was beginning to know exactly how Harry liked it. He leaned forward and kissed Harry, moving his other hand to cup his face. Harry responded to tenderness most of all, he'd noticed. They simply kissed for a long while, their sighs mingling together when they broke apart.

Brogan glanced at Ginny who had stretched out next to them, propping her head up with her hands. She reached over and kissed him, her lips soft against his. Brogan removed his hand from around Harry and pulled her closer, the softness of her body and hair too enticing to ignore. Her body felt hot to the touch and she ground the lower part of her body against his knee. She stared at him intently when they broke apart. She looked at Harry, biting her lip.

"I'm still…so…ready," she breathed at them. "Watching you two is making me crazy."

Harry hummed quietly and pulled her to him. Brogan watched them, his heart beating like a drum. Harry kissed her until she slackened in his arms, moaning when he moved his mouth to her collarbone. Brogan watched Harry's hand move down her body, cupping her breast and then slowly sliding underneath the rim of her knickers. Ginny brought her head up, maybe to tell him not to, but Harry silenced her with another kiss. Brogan watched Harry's hand start to move and felt his own need waking up again. He remembered Harry had yet to come and so he moved forward, lying on his stomach and inched forward until he was laying under the cover of Ginny's hair and tentatively put his mouth around Harry.

He was reassured it was the right thing to do by the string of curses he heard Harry whisper and the sound of his head hitting the headboard in reaction. Ginny was moaning too, and twisting above him. Brogan felt it when she came, her whole body trembled above him. Brogan closed his eyes as she moved her head, her hair no longer covering him. He didn't know why he suddenly felt shy again as he went down on Harry – they had done this before – but never quite like this. His own body was hard again and he rubbed against the bed, causing a fantastic friction to travel up his body. He felt Ginny's hands on his back and she murmured his name. She whispered quite a lot of dirty things in his ear that turned him on even more, and Brogan released any inhibitions he'd been feeling and let go. He opened his eyes to the most beautiful sight. An almost ready to come Harry Potter had to be one of the most amazing things Brogan had ever had the pleasure to witness.

He pulled on Harry's hips, bringing him closer to his mouth. Harry's head was back and his eyes were half-open, his mouth slack. He worked a hand into Brogan's hair, tugging roughly and flashed his eyes down at him – they were so green and dark, and so completely focused on him that Brogan felt a shiver run through him. He hollowed out his cheeks as he'd seen Ginny do earlier and was rewarded with a thrust from Harry and a very loud 'fuck!'

Ginny slapped her hand against Brogan's arse and bent her head down to his. "Don't toy with him or there'll be more of that."

Brogan pulled his mouth away and smiled cheekily at her. "Promises, promises," he heard himself purr and Ginny's eyes widened with approval.

"It's like that then, is it, Brogan? Hmm." She slapped his arse again, this time a bit harder and Brogan couldn't help it, he loved it. He started rocking on the bed again, rubbing himself against the comforter and took Harry back into his mouth. Harry bent his knees, giving Brogan more room to maneuver. He pulled away and then put his two fingers into his mouth, using his saliva to coat them. He wanted to make sure they were wet enough and then slipped a hand underneath Harry's arse. Brogan had a feeling he would need to research more lubrication spells at some point. He searched for Harry's perineum and was pleased when Harry gasped as he lightly touched it.

Brogan didn't push, he only lightly fingered him along the outside and was rewarded with the taste of pre-cum on his lips. He kept a persistent pressure there and hollowed his cheeks again, pushing harder against the bed. He could still feel Ginny touching him, slapping his arse and then caressing him. Harry's body went rigid as Brogan teased him again with his finger, and then Brogan heard his name being cried out as Harry came, the bulk of his release missing Brogan's mouth entirely as he pulled away. Brogan made one last push against the bed, wanting release too, and he felt Ginny's hand cup him from behind, squeezing. It was the sensation he needed, and he moaned as he came, bowing his head against Harry's thigh, feeling completely spent.

Neither he nor Harry moved until Ginny was shifting off of the bed. Brogan felt a cool sensation on his face and opened his eyes to find her waving her wand deftly over them. She smiled at him. "We'll have to go over swallowing at a later date."

Harry snorted and then looked down at him, his eyes marveling at him. "I think we might have to revisit our buggering rule too, at least a bit. Whatever you did with your finger was fantastic."

"And we'll have to go over that spanking thing as well," Ginny pipped up next to him. He turned his head and looked at her, wanting to reassure himself that she was all right with everything.

"You didn't feel left out?" he asked quietly.

She shook her head. "No, although I want to go make myself very happy again in the bath. Monthly cycle or not, you two are going to be the death of me."

"You weren't that messy, I could very easily help you out again," Harry said, reminding her. She smiled at him and sat up to kiss him.

"We need a book," Brogan said as he rolled over onto his back. Harry and Ginny both chuckled at him.

Ginny's eyes lit up suddenly. "We have one! Well, it's mostly for male and female couples but…I think there was a chapter dedicated to couples that were of the same sex variety. I wonder what happened to our copy of it?" She turned and looked at Harry.

"There was?" Harry asked, sounding puzzled. "I don't remember that chapter at all. I reckon I only read the parts I wanted and ignored the rest. I haven't seen it since you mentioned making a copy."

"Wait," Brogan said, frowning at them. "You two had a book that taught you how to shag while you were at the Abbey? No wonder you're so good at it, and no wonder you two were always sleeping in!"

Harry laughed. "Yeah, it came in pretty handy, trust me. We'd each pick a page number we wanted to try and…"

Brogan shook his head. "Bloody hell. Where did you find such a thing?"

"Hermione," Ginny said. "It was Muggle, but highly informative. I wish we knew where it was. It's probably back at the school. In the room that I can never get back into."

"Maybe Dobby can get it for you," Harry said, thoughtfully. "I mean, the room is still there, you just can't access it, right? What did Hogwarts do, just take all your stuff?"

Ginny shrugged. "Dumbledore never explained that part of it to me. It is a bit odd. I just know that by leaving it after the curfew and before the morning, I gave up any and all rights."

"Hogwarts is sort of full of weird stuff like that," Brogan said after a moment. "The founders all had their quirks and preferences. That particular one was most likely Helga Hufflepuff's doing. She was a stickler for rules in her time, apparently."

Harry got up and grabbed his boxers from the floor and slipped them on. Brogan was suddenly sad as he watched him. Ginny snorted and shook her head at him. "You have it worse than me," she said knowingly.

"What does he have?" Harry said, getting into bed again. She just smiled at Harry and went to retrieve her own clothes. Harry looked at Brogan, confused.

"I think she means I have it worse than her when it comes to you," he admitted, feeling his cheeks heat. He reached for his own pants and slipped them on. He really needed to think about keeping a dressing gown in their room.

"Why are you guys acting like I'm a disease or something?" Harry asked, sounding non-plussed.

Ginny laughed and snuggled against him. "All I meant was that I hate to see you put clothes on, Harry. You should walk around starkers all the time."

Harry blushed but frowned at her. He looked at Brogan for explanation.

"You just don't understand how desirable you are, that's all," he said, moving to Harry's other side. Harry put his arm around him.

"I'm just me, just Harry. Now Ginny is the one who should walk around naked all the time. I never get tired of seeing these."

Harry turned and lowered the front of her gown so that her breasts showed and she swatted his arm playfully. Brogan couldn't help himself, he looked too, and smiled.

"Good point, Harry," he said, nodding. "I reckon female forms are infinitely nicer to look at."

"I'm not even offended by that comment as I completely agree," Harry said. They both looked at Ginny and she laughed.

"Honestly, you two. Let's just all agree the three of us look amazingly fit and be done with it, okay?"

They laughingly settled together in the bed, and Brogan watched as Harry used his hand to dim the lights in the room.

"You're getting so good at that. It's like second-nature to you now," he said.

"Just for small stuff," Harry said.

"Doing the Contraceptive Spell before Brogan and I shag is definitely not a small thing," Ginny said, as she yawned. "I don't want to have a child right now, no offense, Brogan."

Brogan nodded. "Oh, yeah, what do you two use? The potion? Should we be…you know, saving some of Ginny's blood?"

Harry shook his head. "I make it, and I'm the one to take it. It's the least I could do, really." Harry and Ginny exchanged a look that appeared very poignant to Brogan. He knew there was a story there he was missing.

Ginny glanced at him, noticing his look and smiled sadly. "We've had a couple of false alarms in the past. Forgetting to do the spell, me being late, that sort of thing. Harry took it upon himself to make it for us. With Hermione's help, of course."

"Yeah, thank God I didn't have to go to Snape," Harry said, sounding disgusted. "Can you even imagine?"

Ginny and Brogan both shuddered. "No," they both said together.

"I reckon I could make one with you or you could have Kath make one for you or…" Harry paused, suddenly realizing what he'd said. Brogan started at the mention of Kath's name. He honestly hadn't spared his friend a thought since the training room. He looked at Harry and Ginny.

"I've sort of forgotten about Kath. Oh, Merlin's balls, I am like the worse sort of…prat!"

Ginny reached out to comfort him, as did Harry. "It's alright," she said, looking worriedly at him. "Don't beat yourself up over it. You've had some sort of major things happen the last few weeks. We all have."

"And besides," Harry said, rubbing his arm. "It's not like you two were…well, had there even been any snogging?"

Brogan shook his head. "No, I never…I never got the nerve. And then this whole thing was going on between us three and I honestly didn't want to explain that to her, even though I thought that maybe she was starting to fancy me."

"She was," Harry said, looking thoughtful. "At your party before…before the attack. She confided in me. She fancied you quite a bit, actually. Hermione was right, as usual. But Kath said you always held yourself back."

Brogan felt saddened at that. Not because it wasn't true, but because it was. He looked at them. "But you guys understand why I..why I did that, right?"

Ginny nodded, her eyes were filled with compassion. "You couldn't allow yourself to feel too much. We understand that now. But I don't know, you might want to sit down and be straight with her when everything is said and done. I think …I think Kath is still supposed to be important to you."

"Aine?" Brogan asked, sensing a bitter taste in his mouth. Ginny nodded. "Well, maybe that's changed. Since…well, this…" he gestured to the two of them.

He suddenly felt a desperate need to make sure they understood how much they meant to him – how much they had changed him just by loving him back. In their own way, of course. Brogan knew he would never come between them, even if he wanted to and he didn't want to. Harry belonged to Ginny, and she belonged to Harry in a way that was uniquely them. He shared their bed but he could never share that part of their hearts. He suddenly felt completely lost and turned away from them, sitting up.

"Hey," Ginny said a moment later, moving to sit behind him. A moment later her arms were around his neck and he felt her soft, warm body behind his. "None of that, we promised no jealousies."

Brogan closed his eyes, feeling as though his heart was in his throat. "I'm not jealous. I mean, I am, but not the way you think."

He pulled away from her and stood up, pacing between the bed and the loo. He stopped and looked at them. They were watching him, expressions of concern on their faces but he was glad they both understood he needed to get something off his chest.

"I…I don't say this often, and I don't share emotions very well, even for an Empath, and bloody hell, I hate making speeches, but…I love you two. I know you know that – you've both…felt it, but this is me. Saying it. You guys can have me – in any and all ways, and even if you both wake up one day and realize you're tired of my smelly feet or hairy bum or whatever, know that I love you. Ginny, I love you for your sense of humor and your amazing body both equally, and Harry, I love you for your kindness and your amazing arse, yes, you have an amazing arse, and if I wasn't bisexual before this experience I might be now just after looking at you naked."

Brogan paused and then looked away toward the darkened windows on the other side of them. He looked back at them, feeling his heart in his throat. In for a knut, in for a galleon, he thought.

"But I know I do not matter," he held up his hand when Harry opened his mouth to interrupt. "Harry, you love with all your heart and soul, and I know that girl right there matters more to you than anything. And Ginny, I know how far you are willing to go to keep him safe – he is your world. It's in everything you two do – from the way you communicate without saying a word, to the way you know what the other person is thinking. The way you touch each other – so loving and tender – and it's all the time. You two don't even feel it or notice it. You two just are. And it is brilliant."

Brogan paused and took a deep breath. "And I'm me, and for some reason you've let me enter into this place with you, and for that I am thankful beyond belief. You will never know how much you have changed me as a man and as a person. But I know that I will never matter in that way to you, and I am telling you it is okay. I will…I will take whatever attention you can spare me. For however long. I just…I just wanted to let you know."

Brogan then stared at the ground, the silence feeling as though it was deafening to him. Ginny was the first to go to him as he knew she would be. She took ahold of his hand and her eyes were full of emotion. She stood on her tiptoes and reached up to touch his face.

"You are a daft sod," she said, her voice soft. She kissed him gently, at first, and then with more feeling. He felt it flare across him in a dizzying wave. He knew he should be protecting his heart – have some sort of shield in place but for once he didn't want to bother. He wanted to feel everything, no matter what.

Ginny pulled away and her eyes were blazing at him. "I never want to hear you say you don't matter ever again, is that clear?"

Brogan opened his mouth and then Harry joined them, taking his hand. "I'd do what she says, mate, or that Bat-Bogey-Hex really will knock you into next week."

Brogan laughed despite himself and smiled thankfully at Harry. The other man nodded and pulled him forward so that they were standing close. Harry was slightly shorter than him, but not by much, and he put his arms over Brogan's shoulder.

"Kissing is just kissing, I reckon," Harry repeated softly, his lips inches away from Brogan's. Harry's eyes met his and they were full of unsaid things. "And love is just love, in all ways and in any way you feel it." Brogan swallowed roughly, and then Harry was kissing him full on, nothing held back. Brogan felt himself sway a little bit, and felt Ginny's hand slip into his as she rested her head against Harry's back.

Brogan worked his hand down Harry's back, squeezing Ginny's arm and then he was pushing Harry into him, gripping his arse. He was unsurprised Harry was semi-hard again because he was feeling the same way. He heard Ginny chuckle quietly.

"Aine wants us all to love and shag again, apparently," Ginny said, looking between them. "She's given you boys quite the short recovery time."

Brogan didn't want to say that it had nothing to do with Aine this time, and everything to do with her and Harry accepting him and loving him back the only way they knew how. That feeling was power, and to Brogan, that feeling was everything. Harry smiled at him as though reading his mind, and maybe he had, or maybe Brogan had just telegraphed his thoughts across his face.

Ginny grinned at them. "Why don't we try the shower this time?"

o-o-o-o-o