Chapter 69: Triumvirate

"All right there, Brogan?"

Brogan looked up from the cup of coffee he'd been staring into to find Kath gazing expectantly at him from the kitchen doorway. He nodded and gave her what he knew was probably a tired smile. It was early morning, and a few days after the Mission-That-Had-Gone-Wrong, and he'd found that his sleeping wasn't so great anymore by himself. He'd grown accustomed to being with Harry and Ginny a bit too much, he reckoned. Now his bed felt empty and uncomfortable, but hopefully, later today, Avery would give him a clean bill of health, and he could move out of the front bedroom.

"Yeah, I was just wool-gathering. There's some coffee left if you want."

Kath nodded and made her way over to the hob. He absentmindedly watched her without watching her – Brogan still felt as though he were a bit out of it if he was honest with himself. Getting nearly pummeled to death and receiving head injuries apparently did not agree with him.

"You're up early for an invalid. Couldn't sleep?" Kath asked as she sat down in front of him. Brogan shrugged and didn't say anything. A moment later, Kath's hand closed around his.

"I didn't get to tell you, but I'm happy you made it back in one piece. I've heard George's version of the story, and it sounded like that bloke who attacked you was a real yob."

Brogan squeezed her hand and then pulled away without thinking, but he saw her frown and then felt like an idiot. He reached out and took her hand back. She had just been trying to comfort him.

"Sorry," he said, squeezing her hand again. "I'm glad I made it back, too. Although, I think I'm still a little befuddled in the head."

"Oh, so no change there, then?" Kath asked, a smile breaking across her face. She patted his hand and then pulled away, opting to wrap both of her hands around her cup. "How are Ginny and Harry?"

"Fine, I reckon," Brogan said, but he knew he was frowning.

"They were worried about you. Harry, especially."

Brogan nodded absentmindedly. He gazed at Kath for a moment. "You mentioned George. How's that going?"

Kath, to his amazement, blushed slightly. "We've decided we'd like to go on a date. When the war is over. Preferably someplace nice. But we don't want to start anything until everything is finished."

Brogan blinked at her. "That's…awfully mature of you."

Kath laughed. "It's practical. It was George's idea, actually. He's indicated that he wants more, and I told him I needed some…time to get through things." Kath paused and gave him a speculative look. "He and I would hate for us to start something and then get torn apart because of what's going on."

"Aye," Brogan said, nodding at her. "You're right, that is practical. Rather boring, too. I've learned life's too short, Kath. Why don't you live a little? Or are you just afraid?"

"Of course, I'm afraid, Brogan. There's a bloody war going on, and he got hurt the same as you. But it's not that, really. I just…still need time."

Kath looked embarrassed, and Brogan mentally kicked himself. He wondered why his Empath abilities seemingly left him completely useless sometimes. Especially in matters of the heart.

"I'm sorry. That was rude of me, and despite what I just said…I do understand. Having spent the last 20 years of my life not going for anything, I suppose I shouldn't cast stones at you. But Kath…oh, never mind. You guys need to do what's good for you. Don't listen to me."

"I just wish you'd had this new desire to just go for things awhile back, Brogan," Kath said, her voice sounding bitter to his ears. He frowned, but she waved him off as she continued. "I'm sorry, that was unfair. Anyway, you know, we can't all have two loves. Some of us barely get the one, let alone a second person." Kath's voice had grown low and quiet. Brogan swallowed roughly, but before he could open his mouth, Ginny came into the kitchen yawning.

"Good morning!" she said brightly but then paused and looked at them, her smile fading a bit. "Sorry, did I interrupt something?"

Kath shook her head quickly. "No, I was just telling Brogan that I'm glad he's all right. Well, I have a few antidotes ready to be stirred, so I'd better get back to it. Have a good morning."

Brogan watched her leave and glanced at Ginny, who was also staring after the other woman. She met his eyes. "I did interrupt something, didn't I? I'm sorry."

Brogan sighed. "No, it was better that you did. I think Kath and me both have a touch of the melancholy this morning. It's an Irish thing."

"Oh, dear," Ginny said, getting herself some tea. "Should I go batten down the whiskeys?"

Brogan smirked as she joined him. She patted his arm and then rested her head on his shoulder for a moment. He breathed in the sweet scent of her hair; he'd missed smelling it on his pillow the last few days. Probably another reason why he couldn't sleep.

"Where's Harry?" he asked as she took a sip of her tea.

"Sleeping still. I think he misses you. He was tossing and turning all night. I was about to tell him to go downstairs and join you so that I could finally get some rest."

"I know the feeling," Brogan admitted softly.

Ginny raised her eyebrow at him. "When is Avery due for your check-up?"

"Not until this afternoon."

"But you feel better, right? No more soreness or anything?"

Brogan shrugged. "Physically? There's a bit, still, but…I feel as though I'm thinking in treacle. My mind just feels slow."

Ginny frowned. "But Avery said your head injuries were healed. Could it be something else?"

"I don't know. But I will ask her when I get the chance."

Ginny sighed and held his hand. "What am I going to do with the two of you? You and Harry both are going to drive me to a whole head of grey hair before I reach twenty-five."

"Bite your tongue," Brogan chuckled.

Ginny gave him a crooked smile and rested her head on his shoulder again. All they could hear was the quiets sounds of the flat as people began to wake up – a door shutting, feet on the floor above them. It was comforting in a way, Brogan supposed. Ginny yawned again and then stretched. She glanced at him.

"Well, I'm gonna make some breakfast and try to wake up. Want anything?"

Brogan shook his head. "No, thanks. I'll just make another cup of coffee and head back to bed, I think."

"Suit yourself," she said, standing up and heading towards the food pantry. Brogan got up and poured himself the last of the coffee and then started the process again for the next person. Ginny placed eggs and other items on the counter next to him and nudged him out of the way. But she called to him before he left the kitchen. "Ask Harry if he wants anything for me, would you?"

Brogan pursed his lips at her. "I meant my bed."

"Sure you did, Brogan."

He sighed and headed for the stairs as Ginny's smug laughter brought a smile to his face.

o-o-o-o-o

Harry stretched and then snuggled down lower into the blankets of the bed. A moment later, he became aware that he wasn't alone and squinted at the body next to him.

"Brogan?"

"Aye."

"What are you doing?"

"Waking you up?"

Harry looked down and then shook his head as Brogan slipped his glasses into his hand for him. He smiled when the other man came into focus.

"Should you be in here right now? And uh…doing that?"

"Do you mind all that much?"

"Well," Harry smiled as Brogan's hand because more insistent. "Not at the moment. But you know what I meant."

"I missed you, I reckon. Also, Ginny wanted me to ask you if you wanted anything for breakfast."

At the mention of her name, both men could feel her amusement from downstairs and knew she would be with them shortly. Harry reached out and put his hand over Brogan's, stopping his ministrations.

"A clean bill of health come early then? Is that it?"

Brogan gave out a frustrated moan and lay back on the bed, removing his hand. Harry watched him for a moment, trying to will his body back into a more dormant state of being. He wanted to be with Brogan, to give in to what the other man wanted, but he also wanted him to be healthy and fully healed.

He lay back down and nudged the other man with his head. "I miss you, too. And I want all the things that you want, but you're going to have to suck it up for a bit."

Brogan turned his head, his eyes sparking with mischief. "Oh, so it's the mouth you want-"

Harry chuckled and pushed him away before he became tempted, too. The door opening had both of them sobering, and then they both sat up as Ginny floated a tray of food over to the bed.

She handed Brogan more coffee and then looked questioningly at Harry. "Juice, please," he said, holding out his hand. He also grabbed a piece of toast and started munching as they got themselves sorted.

"Brogan, you spent a long time at Hogwarts being frustrated. Surely you can wait until this afternoon?" Ginny asked him, her lips twitching. Harry batted at her knee.

"Don't tease him; it's the least we can do."

"No, she's right. I'm just feeling needy," Brogan said, frowning into his coffee.

Ginny and Harry both touched him, and their connection intensified for a moment. Brogan gave them a sheepish smile.

"It's hard to wait for you two," he admitted quietly.

"Good," Ginny said, sitting back. When Brogan gave her a blank look she added, "That means you're definitely feeling better."

After they finished their breakfast, Harry got dressed, and they all headed back downstairs. They passed Lupin on the way down, and Harry awkwardly nodded his head at the older man, as he did the same thing back. Ginny frowned at them but didn't say anything. However, Brogan was unaware of any ongoing friction between the two men and looked at Harry, the question clear on his face.

"We had a bit of a disagreement," Harry explained. He heard Ginny tsk under her breath. Brogan stopped on the stair just as they reached the bottom.

"Was it about you leaving the flat because of me?"

Harry sighed and turned back to look at him. "No. And yes. It doesn't matter now, anyway."

"Harry, I can't be the reason Remus is upset with you-"

"You're not, "Harry said loudly, and knew he must have said it more forcefully than he'd meant as both Ginny and Brogan stood back from him, as though suddenly wary of his mood. Harry forced his shoulders to relax.

"He's not upset because of you, Brogan, I promise. This is between Remus and me. It'll sort itself out. Eventually. I think. Or at least, I hope it will. It has to do with how much of an adult he is willing to treat me."

Brogan nodded, and Ginny rubbed Harry's shoulder as they reached the main room. Ron and Hermione were sitting on the sofa, talking.

"There's an Order meeting soon," Hermione announced as Harry sat down.

"This early in the day?" Ginny asked.

Hermione nodded. "About the mission that wasn't, I think. Fred and George have been leaving hints about what they we're picking up."

"I thought it was just supposed to be rare potion ingredients," Brogan said, sitting in the chair across from them.

"That was the main part of it, but I think there was something else. Or, at least, that's what Tonks indicated to me." Hermione gave Harry a furtive glance as if he knew things that he hadn't already told them.

Harry shrugged at her look. "Don't look at me like that. I don't know either."

Hermione expelled a sigh and looked at them. "Is anyone else tired of not doing anything? I just feel so…useless."

Ginny patted the other girl on the arm. "I know what you mean. Going to rescue Brogan was the most excitement we'd had in a while." Ginny smiled at Brogan. "So cheers for that."

Brogan shook his head, his mouth twitching. "Just doing my part."

Harry ran his hand through his hair, his thoughts going in different directions. It made sense if there had been something else the twins had been ordered to get – why else would the thugs that had jumped them even be there? They had to be connected to Voldemort, right? Brogan had said they were Muggle and definitely non-magical, so why would Voldemort use them instead of some of his Death Eaters?

Harry caught Ron's eye and realized his friend had been studying him. Ron gave him a little smile and leaned back so they could talk in between the girls.

"Thinking there was more to this mission than meet's the eye?" Ron asked shrewdly. Harry nodded.

"Yeah, I didn't really question it at the time because, well, you know, Brogan and the twins getting hurt, but it strikes me as strange that Voldemort would use Muggle goons to do his dirty work."

"I thought the same thing!" Ron whispered excitedly. "I thought it was weird they'd need Brogan to go with them if it was just a normal mission. I think they wanted an extra body there who was quick with a wand. Although, in this case-"

"In this case, it didn't really help them much," Brogan said wryly, interrupting them. "I was a right pillock. You talk about feeling useless, Hermione, but I actually was."

Harry realized the other three had stopped talking, and he and Ron sat forward again, only slightly embarrassed.

"Brogan, you said they set something off that made your magic not work; it's hardly a reflection on your abilities," Hermione said sensibly. "Anyone who had gone would have suffered the same fate."

Brogan, however, did not look convinced. As though sensing his need to continue down his self-agonizing path, Ginny spoke before he could.

"Fred said the one bloke was huge; he could have been…what do Muggles call it? A wristler?"

"Wrestler," Hermione corrected and nodded. "So, really, Brogan, there's no use trying to get us to agree with you. We've all been in your class and know that you know your stuff."

Harry flashed a grin at Brogan as he shook his head and held up his hands. "Fine," the other man said, giving Hermione a little smile. "You win."

They were startled by noises in the foyer, and soon Bill was entering the room, followed by a beautiful blonde woman. Harry blinked and then realized he was looking at a much older Fleur Delacour. No longer a mere girl of 17 on the brink of entering womanhood, Harry realized she had made the full transition to absolutely stunning and drop-dead gorgeous. He could see why Bill had made it his priority to help her. A sharp poke in his side reminded him that Ginny had watched him stare, and Harry closed his mouth, feeling his skin heat. He gave Ginny an apologetic smile, and she rolled her eyes at him but smirked.

'Arry! Finally, we meet again!" Fleur cried. Before Harry knew what was happening, Fleur had him out of his seat. She dragged him into her arms for a bear of a hug. She pulled back after a moment and gave him a wet kiss on the side of his face. "Zut! I have marked your face wit' my lipstick, pardon moi,'Arry. You have…what is zee word? You have become…lush? Yes? That is zee word?" She turned to Bill, who was chuckling at Harry as he untangled himself from Fleur's grip.

"Yeah, that's the word for our Harry, all right," Bill said now. He winked at Harry before he turned to the others. "This is my youngest brother Ron, you remember him, of course, and-"

"Oh! Yes! You were there when 'Arry saved my little sister, Gabrielle! Of course! My, you have grown too, Ronald. Almost as handsome as my Bill is. And Gabrielle asks after you tout le temps!"

"And this is Hermione, his girlfriend," Bill continued on, not missing a beat. Hermione was trying not to give Fleur a dirty look, Harry could tell. He bit his lip to keep from laughing. "And this is my sister Ginny, who is Harry's fiancé, and of course, you remember Brogan."

"No! You cannot be Bill's little sister? You have grown much, ma cherie! So lovely. Love must agree with you. And of course, Brogan, 'hullo, it is nice to be seeing you again."

"Come on, let's see where Mum and Dad are, love," Bill said as he took her hand. Fleur beamed at him and waved at them as they headed towards the kitchen. Hermione made a grumbling noise, but Ginny laughed, looking at Brogan.

"You didn't tell me she had him wrapped around her finger that much, Brogan."

Brogan smiled. "He is fairly besotted."

"Blimey," Ron said, looking warm in the face. "She's grown even more- er, I mean, wow, totally plain. Can't even remember what color her hair was. Boring." Ron cast Hermione a tentative glance and then looked at Harry and then Ginny, who snorted at her brother.

"Good save, Ron."

Hermione fluffed her hair out behind her and stood up. "It's fine, Ron. You can notice how pretty she is. I think she's very pretty. Don't you, Harry?"

"Uh, um, why drag me into this?"

"I'm not jealous," Ginny offered with a smile. "Besides, I know Harry can't compete with my brother. You know, once you go Weasley, you never go back," she said, giggling. Ron groaned in response, but Harry and Brogan shared a glance, and both of them hid their laughter. Hermione rolled her eyes at Ginny.

"Quite so," Hermione said dryly. "Come on, you lot. Let's get good seats for the meeting."

They made their way to the room with the long desk and managed to get chairs together. Mr Weasley was the only one in there, and he smiled at them as he cleaned his glasses.

"I take it that Bill has arrived with our French connection?"

"They're in the kitchen," Ginny said, sitting in between Brogan and Harry.

"Do you know what this early meeting is about, Arthur?" Harry asked, curious to see if everyone was in the dark or just the younger members.

"We have things to go over, no doubt, Harry. I'm fairly sure it has something to do with what the twins were supposed to get for us on their mission."

"So you don't know either, Dad?" Ron asked.

Mr Weasley gave a little shrug. "Apparently, only Remus and the boys knew exactly. It was supposed to be something that could help us."

That made everyone stop and wonder about what it could be again. Soon, they were joined by more people, and Harry realized almost everyone had shown up. Solace and Lupin moved to the table's head, as Fred, George, Kath, Bill, and Fleur joined them on the other side. Finally, Tonks came next, looking hurried and still in her Auror robes. She smiled apologetically at the table.

"Sorry, had a hard time getting away. Thank Merlin, Kings runs the department now."

After everyone was settled, Lupin cleared his throat as Tonks joined him in the seat he'd saved her. Harry saw Tonks touch him gently on the arm in reassurance. Lupin gave her a faint smile and then looked around at everyone.

"No doubt, everyone here knows about what occurred three days ago. You've probably also heard a few theories or rumors about what exactly the three Order members were supposed to retrieve." Lupin paused and gave the twins a knowing look. Harry noticed they both had the grace to look slightly ashamed. "At any rate, I am here to tell you that yes, there was something special about this particular delivery that we wanted to grab. A member of one of the known Death Eater families sent a message to France that was intercepted. Voldemort is apparently in need of the Orb of Methusaleh."

Remus paused, and Harry could tell only a handful of people actually knew what he was talking about. Hermione gazed at Remus, looking worried; Ron and Ginny appeared just as clueless as Harry felt, and even Brogan looked a little confused. Although the name Methuselah sounded vaguely familiar to Harry, he had now idea where he had read about it from.

"I thought that was a myth?" Brogan asked now, looking down the long table, in his father's direction.

"It exists, or at least, it did. They're sort of like empaths, Brogan, extremely rare but still handy," Solace said, sounding slightly amused at his own humor.

"But does it really do what it's rumored to do?" Hermione asked. "I mean, the thought of Voldemort wanting it and getting it is…well, terrifying, really."

"Uh, sorry," Harry said, interrupting. "But what exactly is this Orb? I've never heard of it."

"There are various copies of the Orb scattered throughout the magical world and they have to do with time-manipulation," Bill Weasley explained before Remus could answer. "The original Orb was created by an extremely old wizard, who claimed he knew how to slow down the passage of time so that he could savor that one moment – whichever moment – he wanted. They are extremely hard to make, and the art has been lost over the years, needless to say. Gringott's had a few really old ones in their collection while I was in Egypt. They pre-date time-turners, actually. But the original Orb was said to have extra abilities that any made after it doesn't share."

"So, beyond the obvious of Voldemort getting anything he wants equaling bad, why is Voldemort getting his hands on the original so terrifying, exactly?" Ginny asked, and Harry was thankful because he couldn't understand the alarm himself.

"Well, besides slowing down the passage of time," Bill continued. "It can trap a moment in time, as well. So basically, You Know Who only has to pick a specific moment, and if the legend of the first Orb of Methusaleh is true, that moment can be then trapped inside the Orb forever, or, as long as You Know Who wants it to be."

"Wait, so…this Orb can trap a person? Completely?" Ron asked.

"If the person controlling the Orb so wishes, then yes, the person who is in the moment being saved, can ultimately be imprisoned there forever," Remus said, nodding at Bill. He looked around the room.

"Now I'm sure you understand why we thought it important to take the steps of trying to intercept the delivery. Why we may have…done a lot of things." Lupin held Harry's gaze for a moment and then looked away, nodding at Fred. "Fred Weasley thinks though that perhaps the two that attacked our members didn't get the delivery either, and that it may still be out there."

"Or, it was all a decoy to confuse us. It's what we would have done," Fred said, taking over. He glanced at his brother. "All I know is that before one of them jumped us, it looked like only half the delivery was there."

"So, do we go back out there and try to find it?" Brogan asked.

Lupin smiled. "That is where our French comrades come in. Fleur?"

The blonde looked very excited to speak. "Zee Ministry of my country 'as been paying very close attention to anything being shipped to England. Especially from zee old wizarding families. I have a contact 'ere who thinks zee Orb may still be in our Ministry Customs. If it is in zee boxes still set to travel 'ere, zey will arrive Saturday night!" Harry saw Bill squeeze Fleur's arm in support.

"Operation Orb for the weekend it is then," Ron muttered next to Harry.

"So if Voldemort has figured out the same thing, should we expect more of these goon-types to try and stop us, or do you think this time he'll send actual wizards, since now he knows we're after it, too?" Harry asked.

"I would assume he'd send someone with magical abilities this time," Mr Weasley said. "He probably only uses the others for the menial things. Either that, or, well, I'm not sure. Have we actually any theories as to why he's using Muggle men to help him? It seems out of character."

"I was thinking about that," Solace Ward said, suddenly reminding Harry he was there. "I think the one Brogan tangled with was a squib. What do you think, son?"

Brogan started at his father's question but quickly recovered. "You might be right. The bigger one knew I was there while I was still Disillusioned, as though he sensed me. And he seemed to have an innate hatred of magic that couldn't be just from finding me there."

"Not to mention that magical blocking charm or whatever it was they used to make it so you couldn't use your wand," Ginny offered. "That had to come from someone who knows about such things."

"It was almost like something we'd sell at the shop," George offered. "I mean, if we were still open."

"This was nasty, though," Brogan said. "Horribly acidic and foul-smelling. I couldn't help but cough it back out when I breathed it in. It's what gave me away."

"Was it green smoke or red?" Kath asked as she suddenly sat forward.

"Green, why?"

"There's a hindering potion for blocking spells that turns a bright green color after it is brewed. I'm intrigued by the fact that they've apparently created something portable and physical to use instead. It's a nasty potion – just like you described. It's also odd because I remember seeing Professor Snape working on it when I first came to the school. I thought it was an unusual choice for brewing at the time, but I think I assumed it was for one of his classes."

"Oh great," Fred said. "Old Snapey thinks he can shoehorn into our business. Creating new things from old things is our job!"

George laughed and then sobered when he glanced at Kath. "Um, not really the point, right now, Freddie."

But Kath was busy thinking and didn't notice. She continued gazing at Brogan and then looked around the table, as though coming back to herself. "If Professor Snape has found a way to make a potion into something that can be used by Muggles or Squibs, it opens up a lot of possibilities. Mostly ones I don't want to really think about."

"Blimey, he could make a portable Draught of Living Death and knock us all out," Ron said. Harry saw Hermione beam at his friend.

"Well, let's not get carried away with fanciful thinking," Lupin said, interrupting. "Severus is a brilliant Potions Master, and I am sure Voldemort is using that to his full advantage. But we can only deal with what we know as fact at this point. Kath, is there a counter-potion or an antidote a person can take so this hindering bomb, for lack of a better term, doesn't affect them?"

"Not that I know of, but I bet my Da could figure it out based on the ingredients. Although, it might not be a perfect match if we don't know what agent Snape has used to make the ingredients gel together."

"I could offer to get knocked out again in trade for one of them," Brogan said, self-deprecatingly, and mostly everyone other than Harry and Ginny laughed. Harry noticed Kath didn't laugh either.

The meeting continued on for a bit as they talked about what they would do on the weekend about intercepting the Orb. If it was there. Harry noticed Remus didn't mention using him, Ginny, or Brogan again and tapped his fingers on the table. He felt Ginny's hand slide into his, and he glanced at her. She gave him a tender smile and tilted her head at Lupin. Harry sighed and nodded. Yes, he knew he would have to have another discussion after this one.

As the meeting broke apart, Harry lingered, waiting for Remus to notice that he wasn't leaving with the others.

"Do you want us to stay?" Ginny murmured softly in his ear, and Harry shook his head.

"I'll be fine. No temper tantrums today. Avery is almost due, isn't she? Go with this one to his check-up. Make sure he's really healing as he should." Harry nodded his head at Brogan, who squeezed his shoulder as they left. Almost as though expecting it, Remus finally glanced up and gave him a tight smile. Tonks looked between them and then got up to go as well but not before giving Remus a kiss on the cheek and fixing Harry was a level stare.

"You two be nice to each other, all right?" she said as she glanced between them again.

"Always," Harry said dryly. "As long as he remembers I'm 17 and not 12."

Tonks shook her head at Harry and then left, quietly closing the door behind her. Remus spoke before Harry could.

"First, let me just apologize now and get it out of the way, Harry. You were right. It was…wrong of me to place an alarm on the flat without telling you it was there, as though you were too young or too careless. I still insist it was done for your protection, but I should have come to you and explained why we thought it was necessary. But seeing as you left without it troubling you much, I guess the point was moot anyway."

Harry frowned. "What was it supposed to do to me if I left?"

"Alert me. Knock you out. Or, at the least, if someone was trying to make you leave against your will, it was supposed to incapacitate everyone. You managed to leave without the full spell kicking in, somehow."

Harry remembered how he'd felt as he'd looked at the flat in his mind – as though someone had turned on a grid so he could see all the spells that had been cast. He tried to see it again now and saw nothing. Remus was watching him rather astutely.

"What is it, Harry?"

"I was wearing one of the bracelets at the time. Well, Ginny and me both were wearing ours, and when we were trying to leave, I just…knew the spell was there, as well as all the other enchantments and charms Solace has on this place. I think that was the key to it, or the spell might have worked like it was supposed to."

"Hmm," Remus said, resting his head on his hand as he considered Harry's words. "Perhaps the bracelets are more powerful than we thought or understood. Perhaps…" Remus stopped and glanced at Harry. "You were worried about Brogan that day."

"Yeah. For most of it, actually, and then when we felt him…get attacked, my anxiety just…went through the roof."

"Perhaps the bracelet aided you so well because you were trying to get to the third part of your…well, your triumvirate."

"Is that a big word for the third part of my threesome?" Harry asked half-jokingly. He sobered when he considered it. "The bracelets do seem to have been…well, they work better now. When we train with them on and..er, other things." Harry felt his face heat and looked at his hand on the table for a moment. When he thought he had his blush under control, he looked at Remus. "When I read that book Aberforth wanted me to read, it mentioned some sort of merging occurring between the parties involved. It was one of the more dangerous aspects of wearing them, apparently. According to the book. But I, uh, may not have told Ginny and Brogan that little tidbit."

Harry thought about it and remembered that his memory that day had been trying to tell him something when he'd put the bracelet on. Of course, he knew that Brogan especially would have preferred to have that knowledge before they'd become used to using the bracelets. And it was a bit wild to think of the three of them becoming even closer than they already were. But Harry didn't feel fear at the idea, merely curiosity. But he was not sure if Ginny and Brogan would necessarily agree. It was a bit daunting to think of losing your individuality because of a magical piece of jewelry, after all. Harry realized he hadn't really considered the bracelets' full impact, and he especially hadn't wanted to hear the other two express their concerns, and so, therefore, he had simply never mentioned it.

Remus gave him a half-smile as he watched him, but didn't say anything as Harry felt a keen attack of self-consciousness. He opened his mouth and then closed it. He felt like an idiot, suddenly.

"God, I'm sorry, Remus. For losing my temper and…for apparently doing exactly the same thing as you. Keeping things to myself for the greater good."

Remus chuckled and sat back in his chair, giving Harry an amused look. "You have grown up so much, Harry. I'm really just starting to realize how completely. And you remind me very much of James right now. It would be just like him to realize a similar thing. I disliked arguing with him, and I very much disliked feeling at odds with you. Please, let's both just decide to forget it? I promise to not be so underhanded next time and to trust you. Dora has already reminded me not to treat you with kid gloves."

Remus held out his hand so they could shake on it as they both stood up. Harry pushed it out of the way and hugged the older man instead. At first, Remus felt stiff and unyielding to him, but then he eventually hugged Harry back, and Harry gave him a smile when they broke apart.

"Tonk's helping you get used to hugging back finally, huh?"

Remus laughed heartily. "She'd be so pleased to hear you say that. I fear my days of being the stand-offish loner have long gone away."

"None of us were really fooled; you have to know that," Harry said as they left the meeting room.

Remus sighed. "I know. Touch is…it's important to a wolf. Actually, I reckon it's important for all of us. Go on then," Remus nodded his head towards Ginny, who was waiting outside the room for them. Harry gave her a smile, which matched the one that broke across her face as she saw them together.

"You two get sorted?" she asked, glancing at Remus.

"We did," Remus said, squeezing Harry's shoulder.

"Good, because I didn't fancy stepping down as your family member for the second bonding," Ginny said. "You're stuck with me, now."

Remus chuckled. "And it is a pleasure to have you as such, Ginny." Remus nodded at them both and then left. Harry looked at Ginny.

"I thought I told you to go with Brogan?"

"I did. It was a quick check-up. He's just talking with Avery about which potions he still needs to take. But she says he's almost 100%. Just has to be careful not to get hurt again anytime soon."

"Oh, well, that shouldn't be a problem. Not when he has us, two of the most boring people alive," Harry said sarcastically. He pulled Ginny into his arms and kissed her, suddenly wanting to taste her. Ginny moaned softly as she moved closer to him, wrapping her arms around his neck.

"I miss us," she murmured, and they both smiled when they felt Brogan's emotion of agreement.

Harry kissed her again and then grabbed her hand. "I think we all miss each other."

o-o-o-o-o

"Um, Brogan?"

"Yeah?"

"What exactly was that at the end there?" Ginny giggled as she curled around him. Harry shifted behind her and yawned, then kissed his way across her back, sending pleasing sensations across her skin.

"New technique I thought I'd try. I had a lot of nights of just lying in bed thinking. It's what us brainy types like to do."

"Think of new things to do with your tongue?" Ginny asked, raising her eyebrow at him.

"And other things," Brogan chuckled. He brought her hand up to his mouth and kissed her fingertips. "I didn't hear you complaining at all."

"Thank Merlin for silencing spells, or the whole flat would have heard how thankful she was," Harry said, popping his head up. Ginny shushed him. Harry grinned at her. "You were sort of loud, love."

"You like me loud," Ginny said, turning around and facing him. Harry nodded his head solemnly at her.

"I do, I must admit."

Ginny shifted as Brogan turned and held her in between them. Harry's eyes were still dark, and she knew he wasn't satisfied yet. She kissed him, and he shifted closer and she sighed happily as both men moved closer to her. Brogan started kissing the back of her neck as Harry shifted his leg in between hers. He started touching her breasts, with feathery light touches along the sides. And even though they'd just all shagged, she felt her heart begin to beat faster again. She bit her lip as Brogan's mouth closed around the spot on her neck that she absolutely adored.

"I thought we were finished?" Ginny finally asked, glancing back and forth between them. Brogan and Harry shared a look and then went back to what they were doing. Ginny felt a flush a happiness flare through her. "Oh, thank goodness for quicker than normal magical healing. I love you two."

Harry lifted her hands up so that she was stretched out between them. He leaned over her shoulder and murmured something to Brogan, and kissed the side of his neck. He pulled back and winked at Ginny, his green eyes bright and full of love. She felt Brogan's hands move to her hips, his fingers splayed across her stomach. Harry used his wandless magic to keep her hands above her head. He made sure her body was pulled tight against his. She felt his desire against her leg and smirked at him.

"You've been keeping new ideas to yourself, too?" Ginny asked. Harry answered with a grin and then kissed her, his tongue dancing with hers as he deepened his kiss. Ginny felt herself gasping for air when he eventually pulled away and realized Brogan had been busy behind her as well. His hand slid down her backside lovingly, teasing her with his fingers. She could feel his hardness at the small of her back. His voice was low and soft in her ear, doing indescribable things to her insides.

"So you liked my tongue, hmm?" he murmured now, and Ginny bit her lip as he teased her again with his fingers. Harry started kissing his way down her chest, his breath warm and sweet against her skin. Ginny felt her legs part of their own accord and was rewarded by the deep sound of Brogan's laugh against her skin.

"Eager, Gin?" Brogan whispered, and then she felt him rub against her as Harry took one of her nipples into his mouth. His hand rested over the one Brogan still had on her hip, linking their fingers together. Ginny whimpered and couldn't be bothered to feel embarrassed at her need – they both drove her crazy, and they knew it. She knew it. She wanted them both again. Harry looked up at her, and his eyes were wide and dark. His tongue snaked out and teased her nipple before closing his mouth around her again. She saw desire and and approval in them, and really, it was all she needed.

Ginny moaned as Brogan slid into her from behind, keeping one hand against her arse, making her feel that utterly full feeling that she adored. She didn't even mind not moving her hands; it felt wonderful to be between them like this. Harry pulled his mouth away from her breasts and moved back up to kiss her. His head rested against hers.

"Tell me what you want," he murmured.

"I love you so much, Harry," Ginny moaned as Brogan pulled her hips tightly against his, pulsing deep inside her. She shivered as he then teased her with his fingers again. "I love being between you. Yes, like that, oh, just like that," Ginny gasped as Brogan applied more pressure. She met Harry's gaze with the truth inside her. "But I really love it when we love each other."

Harry reached behind her, and she turned her head to watch as he stroked his fingers against Brogan's cheek. Harry met her gaze again as though in question, and she nodded at him. He smiled and then moved on the bed so that he now behind the other man, on his knees. Ginny and Brogan moved as one so that they were near the edge of the bed, and she felt Brogan shudder as Harry most likely had cast the lubrication and cleansing spells on the both of them.

Brogan moaned in her ear as Harry shifted, and she knew instantly the moment they were all joined, and she breathed out their names, letting her eyes flutter close. Brogan took her as Harry took him, and she was flung wide into the chasm of the sensation of all of their pleasures.

"Ginny, I thought you wanted to watch?" Harry's teasing voice pulled her out of her reverie, and she opened her eyes to find that Harry had created a mirror out of the wall across from them like they'd done at the abbey so long ago. The dark heads of the two men behind her both bowed simultaneously as Harry pushed roughly forward, and they each swore when Ginny used her hips to push back.

"Oh, God, oh, fuck, this is hot," Brogan was muttering, and Ginny couldn't agree more. She watched as Harry moved, bringing his head down to whisper something into Brogan's ear, his lips lingering. The other man met her gaze in the mirror, and he shifted her hips back, causing her to moan in pleasure.

"Ginny, do you mind if I get a better hold on you?" Brogan asked and slowly removed his fingers from her backside. She felt a brief flash of magic as Harry probably cast the cleansing spell for them and nodded her head.

Brogan brought his hands up to cup her breasts, and she shivered as his body covered hers more completely. She watched as Brogan gazed at her in the mirror, his eyes unmistakably full of lust. He kissed her shoulder and then worked his mouth upwards, towards her neck. She shuddered as he pushed forward a bit rougher than before; clearly, what Harry was doing to him was driving him on as well. She let a low and wanton moan escape her mouth.

"Can you reach her?" Harry asked, gazing at them both in the mirror as Brogan lowered one of his hands down. His fingers found her center, and Ginny opened her legs, trying to shift a bit closer to him. She felt a white heat flush through her body and felt herself grow wetter in response. Brogan nipped at her shoulder, his eyes meeting hers.

The sounds of their breathing and mutual pleasures filled the room, and Ginny felt her head start to spin. She felt how much Brogan had missed them – missed this – and Harry's desire was wrapped up around them both, causing the two of them to respond. Harry's hand had found its way into Brogan's hair, tugging a bit roughly at it as he moved. Ginny felt her body tingle in response as Brogan thumbed her clit even faster. She knew she was close and pulled his body deeper into hers as she stretched herself out even more.

"Oh, fuck," Brogan swore as she did it again, and Harry must have shifted deeper into him because suddenly Brogan was crying out as he erratically began to thrust inside her, unable to maintain the slower rhythm. Ginny let herself be swept away and felt let go as her body careened over the edge of release. She could feel how hard Harry was pushing and held on as Brogan's body went off deep inside of her, throbbing within in her and making stars appear behind her eyes.

"Ugnamn," Brogan said, covering her with his body to give Harry more room to thrust. Ginny felt wrapped up in the flame of their desire and turned to watch them – her love – her Harry – fully let go into all that he wanted. Brogan's body shook, and she felt it, too. Harry met her eyes as he grabbed Brogan's hips and pushed deeper inside the other man, and leaned towards her. Ginny tried to push herself up to meet his lips and managed to just make it. They were a tangle of limbs and body parts and so much pleasure….

Harry finally growled in release as he pulled back, and she watched as his body flushed as he slumped forward over Brogan and her. With his wandless magic, he released her hands, and she lowered them, only wincing slightly. She hugged them both in her embrace and started saying their names softly. She touched Brogan's forehead and tried to pull Harry in closer.

"Avery wanted me to take it easy still, you know," Brogan breathed out, turning his head to look at Harry and then at Ginny. "She clearly underestimated you two."

Harry snorted behind him and then shifted off of the other man, which allowed Brogan to lift himself off her. Brogan reached down and touched her face tenderly. He lowered his mouth down to hers and kissed her sweetly. Ginny sighed and let her hands get lost in his hair.

"Love you," Brogan whispered, and he rubbed his nose against hers. Ginny felt utterly done in and unable to form words, but she nodded in agreement. Brogan turned and looked at Harry, moving over to him. He removed Harry's glasses and then kissed him hungrily, as though he'd been missing him for far too long. Ginny watched them, feeling her heart fill. Harry reached up and tugged at Brogan's hair, a smile on his face as they broke apart.

"Love you too, you git," Brogan said, chuckling at Harry.

"I'd hope so after that performance," Harry said smugly. Harry looked at Ginny and reached for her. "How are you?"

Ginny just nodded again and pulled his hand to her mouth, kissing it. Brogan watched them for a moment and then indicated Ginny get in between them again.

"But this time just for resting, promise," he said as they rearranged themselves. Ginny smiled at Harry.

"Thank you, love," she said, wincing at the hoarse sound of her voice.

Harry smiled at her. "For which part?"

"All of it."

"Ah. Well, then, you're welcome." Harry nuzzled her and sighed as he took in a deep breath. He kissed her forehead and then reached out for Brogan to join them. The men joined hands, and Ginny smiled to herself as she felt her eyes fall shut – quite happy and complete.

o-o-o-o-o

"So, I have something to talk over with you two," Harry said as they lounged on the bed, the empty dishes from their makeshift dinner pushed to the side. Mrs Weasley had left the flat. She was helping Bill and Fleur with something, (no one knew what), so dinner had been a free-for-all. Thankfully, Ron had been in a generous mood and fried some chips for the sandwiches and salads they'd thrown together. Harry had to admit it had been rather delicious and he was half-tempted to go back downstairs and see if there was any treacle left. Shaking his head, Harry tried to not distract himself any more than he needed to be. Both Brogan and Ginny were now looking at him, knowing looks on their faces and he figured that they thought he meant something sexy.

"No, not about that," Harry said, shaking his head. Brogan smirked, and Ginny grinned as she lay back down against the other man, placing his hand back into her hair so he continue the massage he'd started. Harry stared at them for a moment, trying to figure out how to begin. He took a deep breath.

"There is probably something I should have told you before we started using the bracelets. Uh, well, started using them more. Something that affects the three of us."

Harry tried not to squirm as both pair of eyes seemed to pin him to his spot on the bed. Brogan's eyes, in particular, seemed intense, or maybe that was Harry's over-active imagination. Harry swallowed roughly and continued on. "There is a possibility, after um, well, after they've been worn a while, and if they are used during a time of stress or separation that there's a sort of…um, melding that happens, and it makes us, er well, me, um, more powerful."

Ginny blinked at him as his words sunk in and then sat up. She glanced at Brogan and then raised her eyebrow at Harry. "Do you want to try that again? With clearer words, this time?"

"What do you mean there's a melding?" Brogan asked.

"Well, you two sort of um, well, I sort of get this boost of magical ability. I think I used it, or um, I activated it when we were trying to save you. But I mean, the book indicated that such a thing was so rare that it was better not to worry about it."

"But ultimately, it's a good thing, yeah?" Ginny asked, frowning at Brogan first, then Harry. "I mean, what is the downside here? We want you to be able to fight Voldemort with everything we can offer you, right?"

Brogan nodded, but his eyes didn't waver from Harry's as though he already understood what Harry was trying not to say. Harry sighed and then sat back, knowing he would have to tell them the full truth. He owed them both that.

"It's apparently called true grace and yes, it makes the bracelets truly be what they are meant to be. I sort of uh, have power over you two now. Not that I'll abuse it or even use it, but the main part is..it's…it's not reversible. I mean, we've sort of been…completely joined. The three of us. Permanently."

Harry looked away from the intensity of Brogan's gaze, feeling his skin heat. But he knew he couldn't stop now, the other man needed to understand what had really occurred. He turned to Ginny and nodded at her ring, trying to smile, but knowing he was failing. "She got a ring, but you only got a lousy bracelet, Brogan. Sorry that it's in the shape of a snake."

An odd silence filled the bedroom. Harry was afraid to break it first. Ultimately, he knew that if they wanted to yell at him about this, then he truly deserved it. He'd been an arse not to think through his actions when ordering them to start using the bracelets more. He'd read that bloody book, had read the words, but he hadn't truly understood what it had meant until now.

Brogan moved off the bed suddenly and slowly started pacing. After watching him for a moment, Ginny shifted to rest against Harry and stared at him, unblinking for a long moment. Harry couldn't read her expression or even pretend to know what she was thinking.

"When did you know this, Harry?"

"About the time I, er, that is, when I …died…" Harry said. "At the library. I just never got the chance to tell you guys. And please, believe me when I say the book really made it sound as though it was a rare occurrence-"

"But after you came back to us, you had us wearing them and training with them and…" Brogan interrupted. The other man stared at him. "We even had sex with them on, and you knew? You knew this might happen? Why didn't you say anything then?"

Harry sighed as he felt his shame move through him, feeling like a git again. He couldn't meet the other man's eyes. What reason could he really give? He'd forgotten, and a part of him hadn't really cared, had it? Harry looked at Brogan.

"I, uh, sort of forgot," he said softly.

"You forgot. You forgot that using the bracelets would join the three of us irrevocably, and you let us bloody well consummate it?" The look Brogan was giving him made Harry's skin heat. And the shame Harry felt only intensified and made him swear as he stood up to face Brogan.

"Look, I didn't do it purposefully, and the book clearly said that half the time the effect doesn't ever happen, but I reckon, well, the three of us are a special case. And I should have known because nothing about this entire experience has been normal, but…" Harry paused, the need to defend himself leaving him as abruptly as it had showed up. He gave Brogan what he hoped was an apologetic look. "I'm truly sorry."

"You said it gives you power over us?" Ginny asked, frowning. Harry should have known, of course, that would be the part she'd focus on.

Harry bowed his head. "Yeah, er, I'm the master of the bracelets since I chose their…counterparts. Well, since I chose you two. Apparently I can, um, cast spells on you. But I won't. I promise."

Ginny frowned at this, looking thoughtful and Brogan ran his hand through his hair as though frustrated.

Eventually, Brogan sighed. "Seems a hard place to draw the line, Harry."

"What do you mean?"

Brogan gave him an odd look. "I mean that if…this…true grace or whatever thing occurred, then you should learn all aspects of it. Don't hold back from using it. I'd hate for you to be up in front of Voldemort and giving it a whirl for the first time and something weird happens. If this makes you more powerful then you should embrace it. Fully. Regardless of the other…factor."

Harry opened his mouth to argue but Ginny touched his arm. "He's right, Harry."

"But…look, maybe you two are right, but I don't really want to talk about that aspect right now. I just…" Harry paused, not sure what he wanted exactly. As usual, the Empath in the room could sense his true feeling.

"You want us to let you off the hook?" Brogan asked, his voice strangely devoid of any emotion. Harry met his eyes and almost flinched. He could tell the other man was angry at him but was holding himself back. Being his diplomatic self as usual. That particular trait of Brogan's usually pleased Harry but now he realized it could be rather annoying when reflected at himself.

"So this is like being bonded for the third time, isn't it?" Ginny said, after watching them. "As though we were all married, except…it's…"

"Older and stronger, and damn well unbreakable, I'd wager," Brogan finished for her. He still gazed at Harry, the anger in his eyes slowly leaving. Now there was a new, unspoken emotion between them and Brogan eventually looked away first, his expression unreadable. Harry felt a strange sort of dread in his heart and swallowed roughly, realizing what he'd ultimately done. He had taken away Brogan's choice. How would he ever make it up to him? How could he?

"I'm am sorry, Brogan," Harry finally said, his voice low. "I honestly didn't think it through."

Brogan shook his head and started pacing again, not saying anything. Harry could only wait to see if he had just irrevocably damaged what they had. He felt like a colossal fool. Ginny slipped her hand into his and squeezed it in understanding.

Brogan finally stopped and shook his head. He turned back around to face them. "In the end, I don't care, I mean, not really, but…" He stopped and looked at Ginny first and then Harry. "Have you considered how you might feel later on down the line when you and Ginny want to start a family? I mean, Merlin's beard, I hate to sound like my bloody father, but you've made it so I can't..." He stopped again, looking strangely bereft, Harry thought. Brogan turned away from them, his voice soft. "You two will always be stuck with me now, don't you see that? Even if, or when we…stop the physical relationship between us, you'll always be forced to deal with me."

"Deal with you? What the hell does that mean?" Harry asked. "It's not like you're a stranger to us. You know how we feel about you. That's not going to change, you know."

"Brogan, Harry's right, "Ginny said. "And please don't say it like that. I'd think that by now you know that is not how we feel – not now and probably not ever."

Brogan looked so wholly miserable to Harry that an idea sprung up in his head before he could stop it.

"Are you sure you're not more worried about you finding someone else down the line?" Harry suddenly asked, wondering if that was the issue. It hurt a part of his heart, if he were honest. He could at least admit to himself that the idea of Brogan or Ginny with anyone else made him feel fiercely possessive and sad at the same time.

Brogan bowed his head and didn't answer, his shoulders slumping. Ginny reached out her hand to touch him, but Harry stopped her. To not only give Brogan privacy from their link, but also because in his heart he was afraid of what the other man was feeling. After what felt like a very long time to Harry, Brogan eventually turned back around to face them.

"Look, you know how I feel about you two, and that hasn't changed. I meant what I said at the cottage. I can't imagine feeling this way about anyone else. That's not it. It's just…bloody hell, Harry. Permanently? We're all so young. You two are so young. This is…this is…just intense to even think about. Life long is a long, fucking time, Harry."

"I know. And I'm sorry," Harry repeated lamely. He knew he kept saying it, but he meant it. With everything he had. "I wouldn't blame you if you thought I had trapped you or something, Brogan."

Ginny tilted her head and looked between them as though coming to a decision herself. She finally sat back down on the bed and sighed. She fixed Harry with a reproachful look.

"At least I got a lovely evening with my family at Christmas time, Harry." She nodded her head at Brogan. "Make it up to him."

Brogan glanced at her as though bewildered by her reaction. "You're not angry? You, more than anyone, have a right to be upset with this!"

Ginny shook her head. "What's done is done, and I think, no, I know, that this is between you two more than between the three of us. I love Harry. I was already going to marry him, regardless. And believe it or not, Brogan, the two of us have talked about our future with you. We already want you there. I want you there. This changes nothing, except, well, it changes things for you, as Harry said. We're not stuck with you, but you are unfortunately stuck with us."

"And, if somewhere down the line you do find someone else you'd rather be with-" Harry started but Brogan suddenly reached for him, kissing him soundly. When they broke apart Brogan's eyes were clear of any bad feelings. There was a rawness in his expression that was part hopefulness and part disbelief. He glanced over Harry's shoulder and then went to join Ginny on the bed, kissing her as well.

Brogan shook his head when he pulled away from her. "No one would ever consider being with you two as unfortunate, Ginny."

"Draco Malfoy might," Harry offered, joining them on the bed. He suddenly felt loads better for some reason. Lighter, even. He almost didn't trust it, but he could feel no lingering anger from either of them.

"Snape too," Ginny quipped as she put her arm around him. "And probably Pansy Parkinson; she was jealous that Blaise Zabini found me fit and tried to chat me up."

"What? When?" Harry started in surprise, letting his mouth hang open.

"Ages ago," Ginny said with emphasis. "Not the point, Potter. Anyway, Brogan, as you can see, we hardly have the door being kicked in with offers-"

"Not from Slytherin, at any rate," Brogan said, a smile finally breaking out across his face. "Zabini's good taste notwithstanding."

They grinned like idiots at each other and again Harry felt as though his heart had cheered considerably.

"We good now?" Harry finally asked, still feeling as though he'd skirted around Brogan getting truly upset with him and not quite believing it.

Brogan gazed at him, his lips twitching with what Harry hoped was amusement. "Yeah. Ginny's right, what's done is done. So, we're good. For a long time, I reckon."

Harry shook his head, marveling at them both. They both just constantly surprised him. Ginny tugged on his hand, pulling his mouth to hers. She kissed him and smiled mischievously at him.

"Smooth as always, Harry. But the next time there's some magical irreversible issue about something we're using or doing or whatever, you tell us first, okay? Let all of us make an informed decision, yeah?"

Harry nodded as he released a deep breath. He knew he had pretty much learned his lesson that keeping things to himself was really not for the best. And definitely not his style.

o-o-o-o-o

Ginny liked wandering through the flat while everyone was asleep. Here they were in the middle of London, a bustling and loud metropolis full of life but all she could hear was the quiet solitude of a house at rest.

It also allowed her to find unused rooms to hide out in, if she ever needed to make herself scarce. She could admit to herself that was the real reason she'd taken to wandering when she couldn't sleep. Growing up the youngest child at the Burrow had instilled in her a severe love for privacy when she could find it.

She was on the floor above their bedroom, in a small room she'd discovered previously. It was full of books and comfortable chairs and a large fireplace. It had a deserted, yet homey feel to it. Or it could possibly be homey if someone in the flat wanted to make it that way – spruce it up a bit, she supposed. Sometimes, Ginny read or tried to. Most of the books Solace kept here were a bit dry for her tastes, but more often than not she used the room to think. And after the discussion they'd had earlier, she felt the need for some soul-searching. And some soul-reading. She had just finished flipping through Harry's notes from library about the supposed True Grace affect of the bracelets.

She stared at the one she'd brought with her, holding it up to the light. The brown eyes winked at her, almost as though mocking her. Ginny frowned and thought about what it meant now when she wore it – what it would mean when they all wore them together. Oh, Harry, you idiot, she thought affectionately. . He really had sort of stepped in it, hadn't he? But then that was sort of what she loved about Harry sometimes – he just plowed ahead regardless. She knew she was much the same way, inside. She wasn't sure that if she'd known ahead of time that the bracelets were going to join them so completely if she would have questioned it or not.

As it was, the decision was out of her hands at this point, and Ginny knew it wouldn't do any good to second guess herself or what her reaction might have been. It was what it was. And the three of them were what they…were.

She sighed again and had just settled back into the soft leather sofa Brogan's dad had no doubt picked for its big, plushy cushions when the door opened. Little balls of light moved into the room ahead of him and then Harry was gazing at her from over the large back of the sofa, the soft glow of the fire she'd lit twinkling her reflection back at her from his glasses.

He didn't say anything as he joined her, making the balls of light disappear with his a flick of his hand. It was his turn to sigh as she pulled him in next to her, his head lowering to rest on her shoulder.

"I'm sorry," Harry mumbled against her after a short silence. It had to be at least the twentieth time he'd said it to both her and Brogan. Ginny made a non-committal noise at the back of her throat and turned her head to kiss the top of his.

"You're angry," Harry said and it wasn't a question.

Ginny frowned to herself. "No, not really. I mean, where's the point in that? Will it change anything? Reverse it? I know my temper is legendary, but even its not that good."

Harry snorted softly and lifted his head to look at her. "That's very mature of you."

"I know," Ginny said loftily. "Remember this the next time I'm acting childishness about something, would you? I want the credit."

"This doesn't mean I love you any less, Gin," Harry said after a moment, his voice almost a whisper. "You know that, right?"

Ginny looked down at their hands, which had intertwined without her noticing and she saw the waystone of her engagement ring blinking at them in the firelight.

"I know, Harry."

"God, I'm such a fuck up," Harry blurted out, sounding miserable. Ginny turned to him.

"Why, because you love two people at once? That's hardly a dire thing."

"No! But because I let this…I let this happen. I'm an idiot. I should have researched the Armilla more, I should have let you two know, I should have…I don't know. Not been such a thoughtless git."

"I'm afraid you have a terminal case, love. You'll always be a git. But I think Brogan and I like that about you."

Harry pulled a face and grumbled at her. She watched as he stared morosely into the fire. "Why aren't you more upset? Brogan was right earlier. You, more than anyone has a right to be utterly hacked off about my mistake."

Ginny sighed and turned his head back to hers until their faces were only inches apart. "Because none of us can change what's happened, and also, because…well, I love you and Brogan and I…oh, Harry, I don't know. So the three of us are joined, now. There's not much difference, really. The only thing I keep coming back to is that you and I haven't taken the second bonding yet. I don't know what it means when we do, if the magic will even allow us now. But I know in my heart that you belong to me and I belong to you and he belongs to the both of us."

"Do you think this means we can't be bonded? I hadn't thought of that," Harry said, frowning. Ginny shook her head.

"It might. I mean, the second bonding is to secure the connection made in the first one, basically starting the process that will lead you both to forsake all others. Something tells me this thing with the bracelets will supersede all that. It's joined our souls already." She moved and showed him his notebook. "I've been going over your studious notes."

Harry's cheeks blushed but he took the book from her, flipping through it. "Look, Gin, it's physical proof I'm a dunderhead. If Snape were here he'd be so proud of himself for calling out my idiocy way back in first year."

"If Snape were here we'd probably be fighting for our lives and not trading insults. At least, I hope we'd have better priorities."

Harry chuckled and then glanced at her, sobering. "If we can't get married the magical way, then I'll marry you the Muggle way. All they do is sign a paper, I think. No souls involved. So don't think this means I don't want to be connected to you. Or that there was some small part of me that preferred Brogan instead. Trust me, I'm not that conniving or manipulative. I really am just that stupid."

Ginny smirked and squeezed his hand. "I know. Well, no, you're not stupid. But about the other stuff. I know. Had you asked me before all of this, I probably would have said the marriage bond was the most important thing for us. But…perhaps, that was the younger, more traditional me. Now I'm more open to other ways of living my life. No matter what that will eventually come to mean."

"Yes, I'd noticed your morals had taken a beating somewhere along the line," Harry said dryly as he leaned forward to kiss her neck. "Mine too."

"In the training room at Thorn Rose Cottage, one would suspect."

Harry only smiled and then kissed her, his lips soft against hers. He moved his hand around her face and into her hair, and soon Ginny felt herself falling back into the softness of the sofa as Harry became more enthusiastic.

She loved him so much. And it seemed that the more life tried to chain it down, the more free their love was determined to be. Sometime later – much, much later, after they'd proven that physically joining was still one of their specialties, Ginny held Harry to her breast, her hands lost in his hair as he listened to her racing heart and thought that no matter what spells were performed or what papers they signed - they would always belong to each other.

o-o-o-o-o