Little Red

by LadyBlack3

Hey there little Red." Urgh, this behemoth of a man was something else. She knew most Rugby players were sizeable but God was he massive. Ditched by her boyfriend at yet another charity game, Ginny Weasley finds herself alone and wishing she had never gotten in with this crowd. She was a WAG, or so the rest of the world saw her. Little did she know she was more seen than expected.

March 2006

The thing that got to her most at these events wasn't the warm Prosecco, flashing cameras, or having to temper her actions to not appear bored or in need of a stiff drink - it was the fake laughter. The titters, the giggles, the fluttering glued-on eyelashes, the short dresses and gooseflesh on naked skin wholly inappropriate for early March.

Having grown up around sports and playing a few throughout school didn't prepare Ginny Weasley for being thrown into the world of professional sport on the sidelines. She had six older brothers, each with their own inclination. Bill used to take her swimming after he was done with his polo training, as he was the eldest when she was little. Charlie was wide enough to have to dip around door frames and used it to play rugby as a flanker for his local team back home in Devon. She had little interest in the twins' athletics, Percy was about as coordinated as a panda so avoided sports at all cost, and Ron had set his eyes on football but had to give up the dream after a knee injury back during his GCSEs.

She had always gotten along best with Bill and Charlie as the two eldest who helped take care of her when mum and dad were too busy. By the time she was twelve, Bill had moved on from swimming but Charlie was playing rugby and she used to love coming to his matches whenever she could. They always used to be magical through the eyes of a child. Now, at the age of twenty-five, she could see the social dynamics much more clearly - the snobbery, the fake glitz and glamour for the eyes of the press and the public.

She herself didn't disappoint her family in following in her brothers' footsteps and played netball all throughout school before giving it up when she moved to do her degree in veterinary medicine at the University of Cambridge. Sport took a backseat to long hours of study and practical experience, but she still couldn't relax without weights, running and pilates at least four times a week.

Of course she never expected to be dragged back into the world of professional sport, but then again she never thought someone like Adrian Pucey would ever show an interest in dating her. They met through mutual friends one night at a local pub, when she was a couple of years into her PhD.

People like Adrian were legacy places at Universities such as Oxford or Cambridge, what they called the Slytherin families - a popular club started by one of the previous generations of wealthy aristocratic families at the turn of the 20th century. Many of the Slytherin club were in Economics, Medical sciences or in something whimsical such as Philosophy. As a scholarship placement herself, Ginny never expected to fit in and worked hard in a part-time job during her Undergrad years to be able to stay afloat around all the glitz and wealth. Many of her colleagues grew up with privilege she never even dreamed of, which is why she found it fascinating when Adrian expressed an interest in her.

He was an established professional rugby player for the local team, and she was a PhD student from a poor family of nine from a hellhole in Devon. Their differences were many but as the months passed and they were coming up to the two year mark in their dating, she was starting to realise that perhaps that wasn't such a bad thing. She was still getting used to his intense schedule, and she hoped her practical attitude kept Adrian closer to the ground and the ordinary populace.

She didn't mind attending his games, but she always felt exhausted after having to pretend to be interested in the nonsensical discussions with the other 'WAG's. The whole moniker was ridiculous, and her academic side bristled when articles began to come out about her relationship with Adrian, labelling them an odd fit and her the mysterious new 'overachieving' girlfriend. It instantly placed her at odds with the other partners of the team members before she ever met them, enduring the cold shoulder and social isolation that came with it. She would have hoped to be judged on her own merit but apparently that was not to be afforded her.

And it was true, even at a simple private charity game for the team, she stood apart from the women in short slim dresses of various colours, walking around on heels that made her worried for their ankles. They were beautiful, and if that is how they felt confident, good for them and she respected their choice. She was sad that their opinion of her wasn't quite so solicitous. It was true, she stood out like a sore thumb in her simple and comfortable cream sweater dress peeking from her crimson peacoat, and elegant but sensibly knee-high leather boots with barely any heel on them. But she wasn't about to justify herself to anyone for how she liked to dress or be.

She winced a little when Adrian hit the ground, his nose bloody and brow sweaty as he pushed himself up to stand once more to retake his position. To be fair, it was an engaging game, and the visiting Scottish team - the Glasgow Warriors - were also in excellent shape to match the vigour of their team.

"Oh isn't he just dreamy? Mind you, I hear that out of all the Scottish visitors, it's not the players who are most interesting," she heard as a couple of the women standing by moved a bit closer with their drinks.

"You don't mean- but he's in his forties!" The other one gasped.

Ginny tried to shake the conversation off and focus on the game but it was proving difficult as their voices grew louder with excitement.

"Who cares? Look at him, he's a legend and still so fit. I hear they call him 'silverback' or the 'Grey wolf', for that silver streak in his hair he's had since his twenties. I mean, it only adds to that roguish charm, you know? The way he carries himself?"

"He is rather bigger than most of his players, that's true. Do you think he's single?"

Ginny silently rolled her eyes to the heavens and asked all the deities that presided over their lives to deliver her from the nonsense. Who didn't know about Fenrir Greyback? He represented Scotland in the Six Nations for fifteen years, and only retired because they wanted to bring in more younger players onto the national team. His number of caps was impressive, as was his physique from what she remembered. Her gaze searched the side of the pitch and spotted him just as his massive body unfurled from his seat and thwarted the two other men beside him.

The Scot was easily 6' 9", over a foot taller than her own lean frame, and as her Nanna would have said, he was built like a brick shithouse. She could easily see how he excelled at Rugby with such a physique. Like many of the players successful in their careers, he decided to pass on his knowledge as a coach, which was at least to her mind certainly respectable. His brow appeared tense even though it was just a friendly charity game, clearly expecting the best performance from his players in any situation.

Thankfully the game was ending and though she felt sorry for her team to lose, Ginny had to admire the visiting Scots who had played brilliantly. She decided to hunt down a cup of tea, unable to swallow anymore of the bubbly swill, and set herself up to wait for Adrian to come out from the showers so they could do the press and take part in the raffle.

"Ah Miss Weasley, it is good to see you've come to support Adrian," she was drawn from her musings by the kind voice of the Cambridge R.U.F.C. Coach Remus Lupin. He was a tall man, leaner but still built well and clearly of hidden strength by his still light movements. The scar stretching across his nose and cheek was a reminder of the car accident that had ended his promising career but she knew Cambridge was lucky to have his guidance as a coach.

"I wouldn't miss it, I know Adrian was looking forward to the game. It's a great cause. Sorry to see the team lose on home grounds but they had stiff competition," she observed, feeling the glares at her back. She was the only one who actually knew the ins and outs of the game so the coach sometimes struck up a conversation with her after discovering the fact at one of the practice sessions she came to see a few months ago.

"Second half was better than the first for us. The moment they got that first try in two minutes in, it was always going to be an uphill battle," he sighed and ran a hand through his sandy hair which was getting more and more peppered with grey as the months went by, or so it seemed at least.

"Don't be too hard on yourself, Lupin," they were interrupted as a tall shadow fell over them. "It was a balanced game, we just came out stronger," Fenrir Greyback offered the man his hand in greeting.

Ginny noticed the set of Mr Lupin's jaw as they shook hands firmly. The difference between the two men was as stark as the difference between the sun and the moon. Where the Cambridge Coach was approachable, unassuming, and his voice would have easily fit into a lecture on something lilting like poetry, the Scot's accent was softened from its surely burly early days, but a deep baritone that flittered over her like honey over gravel. While the only adornment she noticed on Mr Lupin was his plain gold wedding ring, Coach Greyback's arms were covered in tattoos of swirling patterns and runes, some Celtic and other Viking, corresponding with the silver arm ring on his wrist with decorative wolf heads and what appeared a family legacy ring on his massive hand. She couldn't ever recall Coach Lupin without his clean shave and even in this the Scot was contrasting. His beard just about reached past his Adam's apple, his hair was dark streaking with sun-pulled lighter pieces, and reached his impressive pecs in loose waves, a single grey streak at the temple belying his name.

"We shall have to see you on your home grounds for another event, give a chance for another great cause to benefit from a charity game," Lupin suggested as they dropped their handshake.

"And your lovely companion?" He asked, turning that rakish grin and intense gaze towards Ginny. She noted his fern green eyes were speckled with gold as he took in her every feature.

"Miss Weasley, may I introduce you to Fenrir Greyback, Coach of the Glasgow Warriors. Greyback, Miss Ginevra Weasley, PhD candidate at our Cambridge Veterinary School," he offered.

"Pleased to meet you," he offered, the words spoken with a soft rumble of a predator soothing prey. She should know as she had heard it many times in praxis. His large, callused hand completely surrounded hers but his grip was gentle and only tightened a moment to be politely firm without injury. She was surprised he would temper his touch so, Adrian sometimes didn't know his own strength still and was half the size of this behemoth of man.

"And you," she offered softy but clearly.

"What is your research area? Immunology, disease dynamics or pathology?" He asked, smirking when her brows shot up in surprise.

"System Pathology actually, specifically cognitive abilities of animals, behaviour problems. I also researched attitudes to animals and ethics of animal usage previously," she explained, wondering how he seemed to be so well-versed in the subject.

"Wild animals or domesticated? These topics are easily applied to both though I guess you would have easier access to livestock observation than some of the wild native species," he mused.

"A bit of both - understanding the evolution of behaviour in comparable species from wild to domesticated - wolf to dog, or wild birds to domesticated livestock such as ducks and geese," she explained.

He nodded, his smile widening. "So you must be utilising some of Darwin's original principles of natural selection."

Ginny beamed. "Descent with modification, yes. Though there is much more material integrated from cognitive psychologists such as Shettleworth. Cognitive processes such as perception, learning, memory and decision-making play an important role in mate choice, foraging and many other behaviours that cane be found across the spectrum in both wild and domesticated species, of course with a degree of modification-"

Her words faltered when she felt an arm wrap around her back and Adrian's hand settled on her hip firmly. "There you are, I've been looking for you," Adrian offered her a smile though it didn't quite reach his eyes as he pushed his damp curly fringe out of his eyes and faced the two men. "Coach, Mr Greyback," he greeted respectfully though it was clear his feelings towards the Scot were anything but warm.

"Ah Adrian, I hope you've all managed to leave the locker room so we can take part in the raffle. We'll stop taking up your time and let you catch up," Coach Lupin stirred them all, noticing the tension rising between his favourite player and the other coach.

"It was lovely to meet you, Miss Weasley. Perhaps I will have the pleasure of hearing more about your studies another time," Fenrir offered, ignoring the pup who was glaring daggers at him.

"Likewise Coach Greyback, hope you enjoy the rest of the afternoon," she offered with a warm smile, though the hand on her hip tightened a little reflexively.

Once the two coaches left, Ginny looked up at her boyfriend with a frown. "That was unnecessary," she said softly to not be overheard by the paparazzi who were doing the rounds once again now that the players were out of the locker room.

"I don't like the way he looks at you," Adrian said dismissively as she tried to pull back from his embrace.

"We were discussing my studies. You know, the thing I've been doing for the past several years that you could take a bit more interest in," she suggested, keeping a small, tight smile on her lips.

"How about we go do the ruffle instead of arguing in front of everyone, hm?" He asked, keeping his leisurely grin as well.

"I'm getting some more tea," she finally pulled herself out of his embrace and walked off, needing just a moment for herself.

She wasn't sure what made her react so strongly but for some reason the pretence was bothering her, and Adrian's aggressively-territorial behaviour got on her nerves when she had been treated with the utmost respect by the two coaches just a moment ago. As she thanked the waiter for her fresh cuppa, she realised that somehow she didn't feel right in her skin today apart from a few moments with a stranger that she was sure will never cross her path again anyway….

November 2006

She closed her eyes only for a moment, breathing in the brisk air with a hint of ozone that foretold the rain that was sure to make the game playing out before her even messier.

She was glad to be done for the week and so ready for a long weekend without any marking, working on her thesis or having to worry about her neighbour's penchant for parties celebrating nothing of note in particular… She loved coming up to Scotland - Edinburgh for the history, Glasgow for fun and the festivals, and the Highlands for the hikes, and recently for her studies as well, where she was able to work with the local institute who re-introduced a small pack of wolves to see if they would be able to adapt to the ecosystem. It was the perfect internship - adaptation of one of the topics she had been looking at in an earlier chapter of her thesis.

She only had a few months to go now before her submission was due and the dreaded viva would take place, but for now, she was glad to be here. It was another charity event, this time ahead of Christmas while the weather was semi-reasonable, to raise money for a local oncology ward supporting families. For once their diaries aligned and she was able to come up to support him and take the weekend to enjoy herself away from the pressure of her studies.

She clapped and smiled as their team scored a try, though facing the Glaswegians on their home territory was definitely to the benefit of the Scots.

"Your boys are doing well," one of the women beside her directed at her.

Ginny smiled. "I think they're still a bit sore from the loss on home grounds, so they came prepared. Though your team is definitely a challenging opponent," she replied and accepted a fresh cup of tea when offered.

"Daphne," the blonde introduced herself, looking quite sensible in a stylish coat with fur lining and warm thigh high boots.

"Ginny," she shook her hand and took a sip of the much needed tea. "Are you a partner to one of the players?" She asked.

Daphne nodded and pointed out a shorter stocky man to the left. "That's my Gregory. Been married five years now," she said proudly.

"Congratulations," Ginny offered, looking around and noticing a lot of the families gathered to watch the charity match here in Scotland included children and the event had a much more comfortable and leisurely feel to it. For once she fit into the cloud with her sensible grey turtleneck and black jeans. "This feels much more relaxed than some of the other charity matches I've been to."

Daphne snorted softly. "I would hope so. Charity is about giving and getting together as a community. Not everything needs to be a fancy do. We've all known each other here for a few years now and the bairns are about the same age so we don't make much of a fuss and let them enjoy the day," she explained.

"Reminds me of home. Large family down in Devon," Ginny admitted. She liked the ease of a good living but didn't for one second enjoy the fame surrounding the sport, the paparazzi and the public scrutiny.

"Which one's your other half then?" Daphne looked across the field.

Ginny pointed out Adrian just as he made a pass and got tackled to the ground at a funny angle on the shoulder.

"Ouch, that will hurt," Daphne winced in sympathy.

Ginny sighed. "I'm sure your freezer also has several ice packs like ours. Couldn't live without them at this point... At least he'll have time to rest it before the Six Nations in the spring, in case it needs it. I don't like to see him injured," she admitted. More so for the foul mood swings than anything else, despite the comfort she tried to provide.

Seeing a need for a change of subject, Daphne nodded towards the coach area. "Your Coach seems to be at odds with ours more than we usually see," she observed, the tension positively palpable between the two men who stood a good eight feet away from each other, observing mostly silently, though their lips occasionally moved in private conversation.

"They showed the same rivalry back home but it looked to be hyped up by the papers if their last interaction in Cambridge was anything to go by," Ginny observed.

"You and our Coach are friends?"

Ginny chuckled. "Not at all. We met once, got introduced back in..what was it, March or April maybe? I don't know him but he was kind, asked about my research and studies. Why do you ask?"

Daphne tried to hide her grin behind her own cup. "His gaze has been turning to you repeatedly in the past hour," she observed before her attention got diverted by one of her daughters and she hurried off with a quick apologetic smile.

Ginny wondered what she meant and looked up towards the Coach, realising with a start that he was indeed looking at her when their eyes locked in a silent exchange. The corner of his lips pulled up and he nodded in greeting, a gesture she returned before they both turned back to the game before them. It must be her pea coat. She knew the crimson was quite eye-catching but it was also her best find from TKMaxx that actually suited her fiery hair.

Unfortunately no amount of support from their friends and partners helped the Cambridge team win, the Scots concluding the game with a final try at 81 minutes and a score of 40-24 for the home team. Coach Lupin was trying not to look thunderous, especially as it was supposed to have been a relaxed charity game and two of his players hit the ground a bit too hard, including his star player. Ginny braced herself for Adrian's foul mood at the loss and his likely discomfort, as she found a seat at one of the small round tables with a plate of nibbles from the lunch spread.

"Hey there little Red."

Urgh, this behemoth of a man is something else. She turned to look up at the unmistakable sound of the man's voice and raised a pointed brow at the greeting.

Coach Greyback merely grinned, not looking repentant for a moment. "Forgive me, I couldn't help myself. You looked like the Little Red Riding Hood in a sea of black and navy coats in the family area. Here to support your lad?" He motioned at the chair beside her and she nodded in invitation, watching him barely stoop to lean against the stool, bending his knee to prop a foot on one of the foot rests casually. She was bloody dwarfed by his mass.

"No offence taken. I think congratulations are in order - it was a well-earned victory," she acknowledged.

His grin widened and fern gaze sparkled golden with pride. "They've done well, I wouldn't accept any less today," he nodded to one of the men by the bar and soon sipped his pint of bitter with a contented sigh. "I see you were able to take some time away from your studies to be here?" He prompted.

The way her smile widened instantly despite the tiredness evident around her eyes was stunning to him. She was a captivating young woman and for some reason he found himself interested in her company and comfortable in her presence despite their brief introduction earlier in the year. Her copper locks were piled high into an artfully messy bun and she wore barely any make up, just a swipe of lipstick matching her coat and making her freckles more vivid. Her build was lithe and athletic but with gentle curves that he would enjoy running his hands and tongue across. He focused back on her dark gaze and listened with interest to her research progression.

"... which is why I've been involved in the repopulation of a small wolf pack in the Highlands. The observation is just incredible! Their adaptation to the environment and fit into the ecosystem completely overrun by deer has been factination to observe. I'm adding to my analysis and findings. At this rate I will be able to submit the work for viva in the spring," she explained.

"How are you enjoying the teaching?" He asked but chuckled at her grimace.

"It can be fun, there are a couple of interesting topics but the rest of it is just tedious, to be honest. Not something I aim to continue doing."

"And what DO you want to do?" He asked curiously.

"Honestly? Not sure yet but I'll have a few options and I'll consider location as well, as I have Adrian to discuss it with," she mused.

"I hope whichever path you choose, it makes you happy and fulfills you," he offered.

"Thank you," she smiled at the sincerity of his words. "Enough about me. How is coaching a rugby team going for you? Do you miss being on the pitch?"

His grin was infectious and she felt herself chuckling as his answer came fast and resolute. "Always. Though I'm too old for most standards. Recovering from the impact of the game takes much longer once we hit mid-thirties and I am nearly a decade past that," he acknowledged.

She raised a pointed brow. "I bet they call you the Grey wolf for a reason. You could get most of your team a run for their money."

Amusement clear in his leisurely grin, he tipped his glass to her. "I'm sure the pups would lick their wounds but a bruised ego can be hard to heal at that age. Coaching has been good for me in many ways," he admitted with a healthy dose of self-deprecation. "I wasn't sure I would coach at first, I missed the game too much, but then I remembered how instrumental my coach had been for my development as a player but also as a person, some of the values I learned in a healthy team environment, and I knew I wanted to pass the experience on."

She could see the absolute truth of his words in the way his eyes sparkled with passion for his work, and a part of her found him even more fascinating for it. "I'm glad you get to share your success. If your team's winning streak is anything to go by, you made the right choice for yourself and the team."

"Thank you," he acknowledged and scratched his chin through the beard for a moment as he took in the regard and respect in her gaze. "Let me get you another drink. More tea or do you have a poison of choice?"

One wouldn't hurt maybe... "Amaretto sour if possible. If not, gin and tonic is fine as well, thank you," she agreed.

He was gone only a moment before a harsh grip on her arm made her yelp in pain.

"What are you doing with Greyback again?" Adrian hissed into her ear. "I told you I don't like the way he looks at you and you're having a drink with him?"

"He was keeping me company while I waited for you. You're hurting me, please let go," she said softly but pulled on his grip unobtrusively, trying to shake him off.

His hand only tightened its grip and she tried to keep a neutral face but the grimace of pain stretched on her lips. "You're having drinks with the Coach of a rival team. Right in front of my teammates. It's embarrassing, you're embarrassing me."

Ginny took a deep breath and turned to look at him, eyes blazing. "We don't need to make a scene here, the only one who is embarrassing us right now is you and your jealousy. I will not put up with it. Let go of me Adrian, you are hurting me."

He was about to respond when a shadow loomed over both of them. "I believe the lass asked you to let her go. Now," Fenrir positively growled at the young man.

"I don't take orders from you. Leave my girlfriend alone," Adrian retorted disrespectfully, uncaring of the potential penalties of speaking to another coach this way.

"You will let her go now, pup, or I will grip your arm the way you're gripping hers," Fenrir's words were soft but his hand landed on Adrian's injured shoulder and he momentarily rested his hand, just enough to dig his fingers into the injury in warning.

Adrian hissed and took a step back, letting her go but looking like he was ready to escalate the conflict.

"Oh for heaven's sake, both of you just stop it," Ginny said firmly but quietly to avoid drawing further attention. "I will not be manhandled, Adrian. Maybe you should cool off with the team."

Adrian looked between the two of them before shaking his head. "Forget it, I'm done. You can't even be supportive of me and my team after everything I've done for you. We're done," he said resolutely before walking off, leaving them to join his team which was giving them covert looks from across the room, the snap of cameras in the background intensifying.

"Fantastic. This is just what I need to read about tomorrow in Hello..." she murmured before turning to Fenrir. "I appreciate your help but it wasn't necessary to threaten him," she pointed out.

Fenrir frowned. "Young pups have a loud bark and barely ever bite, but I will not tolerate a lass being treated that way. From my team or any other player if I can help it."

How could she argue with that? She sighed and picked up the cocktail he brought over for her, taking a deep drink before gathering her coat. "Thank you for your help, and for your company. I'm going to head off since I'm apparently no longer welcome."

"You are still welcome to stay, if you wish. Don't let a spiteful boy ruin your afternoon," he offered.

She was enjoying speaking to him, but the way Adrian just broke up with her was still painful and knowing it was all captured by the media was distressing enough. She just needed some air and time alone. "That's kind but I think I'll just head off. Thank you again," she nodded.

"It was lovely to speak with you. Here," he reached back into his pocket and retrieved a business card. "If you wish to get in touch or ever find yourself in Scotland again," he offered.

She took it and carefully tucked it into the side pocket of her handbag. "Thank you, Coach Greyback." He looked at her pointedly until she relented. "Thank you, Fenrir," she used his given name as he had invited her to do earlier.

"Good night, Ginevra," he stepped back and watched her head out.

She sighed once in her taxi and watched the wet streets pass her by on the way back to her hotel. Perhaps it was for the better. Adrian used to be a considerate partner, and once upon a time she thought they were solid. But over the past few months Adrian grew consistently more jealous and yet at the same time disinterested in her and many of the things that brought her joy. And maybe tomorrow it will feel like the right course of action. Tonight though she would order in and decide whether to head home early or stay for the weekend as she had planned, just getting to see more of the city.

Unbidden, the memory of Fenrir's warm grin and sparkling green eyes distracted her, something drawing her to the man but she pushed the thought away. Adrian's accusations earlier about everything he'd done for her stung, she never wanted his money, fame and the scrutiny, but she accepted it was part of loving him. Now that they were no longer together, she had no reason to run in the rugby circles other than to see a game as a visitor or to support Charlie when he played. It was unlikely she would ever see Fenrir anyway so why hang onto the memory?

June 2007

She was officially done. Sitting in her flat on a Saturday morning, knowing her viva was successfully received and there were no further amendments to make was the most surreal feeling she'd ever had. No more students, marking, stressing about her schedule, unhealthy amount of caffeine or 3am breakdowns. She was truly done and would get to Graduate in the October ceremony. She'd texted her family throughout the week and was happy to receive phone calls from Charlie who was currently in the middle of a season, Bill who was in France, and even Percy who called her in between his duties as the Prime Minister's secretary.

It was perfect timing, she could take some time to rest over the summer as she had enough savings to carry her over for a few months while she looked for a job. She was just making a cup of tea when there was a chime from her intercom. She dashed to it and pressed the button as quickly as she could.

"Hello?"

"I have parcels for Miss Ginevra Weasley?" the crackly voice came through.

"On the first floor, door on the left," she instructed and buzzed the door open before wrapping a long jumper around her shots and pyjama top.

She opened the door just as the delivery man appeared with two large boxes. "This is for me?" she asked in surprise.

He nodded and after she signed for it left her to it. She propped the door open and carefully lifted a box, realising it wasn't very heavy. How curious! She carried them both to the living room and poured the hot water over her tea leaves, letting them steep as she grabbed a knife and began opening the boxes.

A warm smile bloomed on her lips as she pulled out a bouquet of lovely yellow and orange flowers, sweet and summery. Underneath she found a separate compartment with a box of Thorntons and a card. Digging into the envelope greedily, she chuckled at the cute card of a giraffe with a graduation cap and a lovely message from her parents, congratulating her on her achievement.

She put the flowers into a vase and set the card next to it on the windowsill, putting the chocolates away before she was too tempted to have them with her breakfast. She turned to the second box and opened up the top flap. She gasped in wonder at the stunning wildflower bouquet of soft greens, yellows and pinks - stunning roses, mimosa foliage, lisianthus, chrysanthemum blooms, hypericum berries, Scottish thistle and fragrant eucalyptus arranged into a bouquet as tall as her torso. Whoever sent this knew she adored wildflowers - was there a card?

She searched the bottom of the box and pulled out the smaller card. Heavy cream paper and golden edges, how intriguing. She pulled the card out and her eyes widened at the loopy handwriting before her.

Congratulations on your achievement. Still hoping your next path will make you happy and fulfilled.

- Fenrir

Ginny stared at the card in disbelief, before once again looking at the gorgeous bouquet he sent. How did he even know where to send it to?

She padded over to her desk in the corner of the room, rifling through the top drawer until she found her card holder and pulled out the card he handed her last year when she last saw him. Truth be told, she put it into the card holder once she got home and didn't think back to it. The months following her breakup with Adrian had been rough - first the reports of his behaviour at the charity game, then photos of his wild night out with the team after the game caused speculations about his cheating, before someone finally confirmed that they had broken up, likely one of the teammates. She herself refused to speak to the media, especially when they began talking about her and Fenrir as the reason for the break up, supporting the rumours with photos of them laughing over a drink as she waited for Adrian that day.

It was ridiculous, and she was glad to see Fenrir's simple response was that the rumours were not true and he prefers to keep his life private. No further comments or engagement from either of them thankfully resulted in the breakup being old news by the time they began a new year. Worse than the media had been the friend split. She'd always got on well with guys, better than girls in her year back in school anyway, so she was friends with a lot of his teammates and Adrian's close circle. Following the breakup, she lost a good three quarters of her friends who for some reason or another sided with her ex. At least she knew the true measure of the people in her circle, and discovered she still had a small group of close friends who supported her through thick and thin.

It would be a lie to say she hadn't thought about Fenrir. She was aware he used to be the Defence coach for the Scottish national team but just before the year end he was named an Assistant Coach instead and when she caught the Six Nations games on telly, his large frame would come into view, gaze intent and board shoulders set as he stood and watched the play before him with the other two coaches. There was something about his quiet strength that appealed to her but she thought perhaps after dating Adrian that she should stay away from the world of professional sport.

This card though was something she hadn't anticipated. It was a very thoughtful gesture and the message echoed his words the last time they met. He truly wished her happiness, and showed real interest in her work and success. Perhaps it was an invitation, and somehow she felt the ball was in her court.

Squaring her shoulders and getting on with it before she could change her mind, she picked up her Blackberry and saved his mobile number into her contacts before sending off a text.

Thank you for the lovely flowers and your message, they were very thoughtful. Wildflowers are actually my favourite. I am surprised you knew that and my address - who gave me away? Ginny Weasley

She read and reread it a couple of times, biting on her thumbnail anxiously. "Fuck it," she muttered and pressed the send button before she could mess with it and edit it again.

In the end she took the phone with her and sorted out another vase for the flowers, placing them on the window beside the bouquet from her parents. It was a lovely display, and she settled down to watch the morning news when her phone chimed with a notification. She reached for it, and took a tentative look, and sure enough it was a reply from Fenrir.

So you haven't lost my business card! I was beginning to wonder… Glad you liked the flowers. I may have been there when Charlie received your message and asked if he would share your address. I had a feeling you like your flowers as wild as the wolves you like to observe. I hope they made you smile. Fenrir

She huffed a small laugh. Of course it was a guess, cheeky man. And she will be having a word with Charlie about sharing her address so freely. But first -

They were lovely, thank you. I wasn't sure you would want to hear from me, considering the press decided to go mad instead of focusing on the real news - congrats on making Assistant Coach! Scotland did well in the Six Nations.

She barely took a sip of her steaming tea before receiving his reply.

I don't allow the press to impact my private life but I was sorry to see how vicious they were to you. Thank you, it was worth the effort, the team did well and I look forward to training more with them this year. And since we're now talking, you can tell me more about your plans this summer ;)

She fucking melted. It was clear from his messages that her contact with him was very welcome. His texts sounded exactly like he spoke, she could read the messages and recall his grin and leisurely drawl when he was teasing or being self-deprecating. A part of her remained hesitant to open this particular can or worms, but there was something about Fenrir Greyback she was drawn to. And despite the difference in their age, she felt like they were more in tune than she had felt with Adrian.

She flicked the telly on and got comfortable under a blanket before responding, the text between them flying back and forth for a couple of hours before her phone chimed with a parting message.

Heading to a meeting and training session now. Speak again soon?

She bit her thumbnail at the short message.

Sure, thanks for chatting, have a good day! :)

Suitable chipper without sounding put out, that would do. Speak again soon - that could be tomorrow or in a few weeks, no commitment. Did she want to speak to him so soon again? Damn, she did… Well, maybe they will be in touch and maybe they won't. She wasn't going to sit around and wait for a message from him. She had some food shopping to do, and a book to pick up today before catching up with Hermione over dinner and pint in the pub.

Her phone chimed again and she opened the message with a smile.

You too, Dr Weasley ;)

Fenrir Greyback was a dork. A gorgeous, smart, interesting, adorable dork. And she was enjoying this back and forth too much…

August 2007

For once her birthday fell on a Saturday and she made the three and a half hour journey from Cambridge down to Ottery St Catchpole in Devon in her beaten up blue Clio. She was awake and excited at five o'clock, just as the sun was coming up, so she took her time getting ready to celebrate her birthday with her family. She brushed out her hair from her plait, leaving it nice and wavy as she pulled on her short black playsuit. It would allow her to tan her slim legs but had a three quarter sleeve so she wouldn't be chilly in the morning as she began her drive. She packed an overnight bag with a few essentials and a couple of extra outfits before slipping into her comfortable flats and beginning the drive at half past seven.

Seeing the wonky house and fragrant green fields surrounding it come into view really made her feel like she was at home, as she parked up next to her dad's old Ford Anglia and her brothers' Focus and Polo. She tied on her favourite wedge sandals that could withstand the uneven surface of the garden where her birthday lunch was to be held, and headed inside.

"Ginny dear! Welcome home, happy birthday," she was smothered in her mother's soft bosom and allowed herself to be kissed on both cheeks, smiling widely at the woman who had been her biggest fan throughout her studies.

"Thanks mum, I missed home," she hugged her tightly before beaming at her dad who came to give her a hug as well. "Hi daddy."

"My little girl is a Doctor! We're so proud love, feels like it's my birthday instead," he kissed the top of her head and took her overnight bag from her to drop it upstairs in her room as she settled in.

"Hey Gin," Fred and George greeted her in tandem, each pressing a smooch to her cheek until she batted them off.

"Our baby sister-"

"Is all so grown up!"

"How will we ever cope?"

She rolled her eyes. "I'm twenty-six, I've been an adult for some time," she pointed out.

"But that means-"

"We're getting old as well!"

"Unacceptable!" Fred uttered, hand on his chest in his typical dramatic fashion as George grinned beside him.

I'm too used to this shite, she thought before smiling. "I missed you two," she admitted and watched their grins soften as well as they pulled her into another hug.

"We have a surprise for you later," George whispered in her ear.

"I hope you won't be spiking the iced tea until it's from Long Island like last year," she grinned.

"Us? Never!" They proclaimed with matching grins and she shook her head with a chuckle and headed through the house to the kitchen where she found her mum decorating her favourite elderflower and lemon drizzle cake for dessert.

"Do you know if Charlie will make it, mum? I haven't heard from him," she asked a bit worriedly. She wasn't supposed to have a favourite, she loved all of her brothers, but Charlie was special. He helped look after her when she was a baby and took her to his matches and to her favourite spots in the nearby woods and fields when she was little. She missed him more than others and had hoped he would at least message.

"He called earlier this morning to say he would be here just after twelve, and is bringing a friend. Perhaps we'll finally get to meet a girlfriend of his," she mused happily.

Ginny turned to the fridge to hide her bad effort at suppressing a chuckle. Charlie was about as straight as a roundabout and though he had tried to hint in the past that a wife and children were not part of his future, her mum was still blissfully ignorant as ever.

"Did Bill message?" Molly asked as she set the cake onto a lovely glass stand, happy with the way the drizzle settled.

"He did," Ginny nodded. "He'll be back from France some time before Halloween, a few weeks after Fleur is due, so you can meet your new grandchild," she chuckled at the way her mum's smile brightened the room.

"Oh I can't wait to meet little Dominique. Maybe it will be your turn to be a godmother," she smiled though Ginny doubted Fleur would pick her over her own sister. "And Percy?"

"He's stuck in London today but sends his love. Is Ron around?"

Molly shook her head. "Not yet but he's on his way. He's dating the neighbours' daughter, Lavender I think her name is. He'll be coming for lunch as well."

"Mind if I settle in my room before lunch?" Ginny asked, wanting to get a moment of quiet before everyone congregated for lunch.

"Of course dear! We'll be just out back when you're ready," she smiled as Ginny headed upstairs to the second floor where hers and her parents' rooms were.

Very little has changed in the past years. Her room was still the same tight space with the bed pushed in the corner unde the reclining roof, and her walls covered in notes, posters and fairy lights. Perhaps she would take the time tonight to go through the things on the wall and notes and papers left behind on the table and in the drawers. It would be nice to clear out the clutter for when she visited next.

She unpacked the few bits and bobs she brought with her and had enough time to reapply her lip gloss before heading down the stairs, curious about the commotion coming from from garden.

She beamed when she spotted the broad shoulders and messy hair of her favourite brother. "Char!"

He turned around and grinned, jogging over to her and picking her up easily off the floor as he spun her around before pulling her into a tight hug. "Happy birthday Gin-gin," he said softly.

"Thank you. I'm so glad you made it, I missed you," she smiled and held onto his arm as he set her back down on the ground and she found her balance in her heeled footwear.

"I didn't come alone," he stepped aside just as their brothers moved for her to see the guest he brought with him.

"Fenrir?" She asked in surprise at seeing the man there.

He was dressed in black jeans and a white shirt that flexed on his broad frame, and his hair was loose and wavy as he approached her with a small bouquet of wildflowers. "A good surprise I hope?" He asked.

They'd been messaging for the past two months because despite her initial doubt, Fenrir texted her again the very same first day after his training to ask about her plans for the night. As if they'd been casually texting for weeks. And yet it felt perfectly normal and welcome to have his presence in her life with nearly daily messages.

The sight of him after nine months also didn't hurt. "A great one," she admitted and stepped closer, allowing the man to pull her into his arms as she breathed in the hint of woods and spice from his cologne. "Thank you for coming."

He hugged her carefully, trying to make sure he didn't crush her with his strength. He had been looking forward to surprising her for her birthday and she sure was a sight to behold, happy and content around her family, her bare legs catching his attention as she walked towards him. It was only too easy to imagine them wrapped around him.

"Happy birthday, Little Red," he replied teasingly as they separated, enjoying a moment just for the two of them before Ginny got pulled towards the head of the table as the guest of honour for all to surround her with love and merriment.

She ended up with Charlie and Fenrir in the seats around hers and beamed at her parents at the other side of the table as they were joined by Angelina and Katie, the wives of the twins, and Ron came in with a pretty blonde bearing a birthday gift wrapped in pink foil. The table soon filled and Angelina and Katie helped bring all the food out so they could begin eating.

"Happy birthday Ginny and congratulations on your PhD. To our one and only Doctor Weasley!" Her dad announced and all lifted their glasses to her, before a cacophony of singing began, out of tune and out of pace, making her laugh at the wonderful weirdness of her family.

Once they finished, waiting for twins to conclude their drawn out rendition, they dug into a mix of her favourite dishes - roast chicken, veg, swede and carrot mash, mushroom pie and salad with mustard dressing and pomegranate seeds.

As the table broke out into small pockets of conversations, she turned to look at Charlie. "I'm so glad you could make it today! Are you staying nearby or were you in London again?"

He grinned. "We're actually down here for a bit of training and a team building week. There's a base for rugby teams near Plymouth and our Coach decided we would pair with the Glasgow Warriors for our retreat this year," he sent a wink to Fenrir.

"I didn't know you were here in Devon," Ginny turned to look at Fenrir who tried to hide his secretive smile behind his glass.

"I wasn't going to tell you when I could surprise you," he pointed out. "Since becoming the Assistant Coach to our national team, I've had to conclude my contract with the Warriors but I wanted to do one last team building with them and their new coach so the transition is smoother. I'll be back to the national team in a few days," he explained.

"And are you happy with the switch?" She asked, seeing his smile widen enough of an answer.

"I am, they're a great team but we've just had some new younger players come in so trying to make sure the team is integrating well. I've now relocated to Edinburgh, driving two and a half hours each day wasn't productive and I live quite near the Oriam so it's convenient."

Charlie grinned. "Well, come September you'll be neighbours then."

Fenrir's gaze fixed on her in surprise. "Is that so?"

"You're not the only one who likes to surprise," she grinned. "I accepted a post at the Royal School of Veterinary Studies. They have a great research department where I'll be supporting research into domesticated species and practicing my clinical work in their Veterinary Services department. There's an exceptional Primary Care Clinician, Dr Forrest, who also does observation and clinical teaching. My post is conditional - I have an 18 month contract and if they like me, I might be offered a full time staff position either in the Research department or as a Clinician," she revealed.

She could see the wheels turning behind his sharp fern gaze. "I'm glad you found a position worthy of you," he finally said before cutting into his pie. "Have you found accommodation yet or do they have available staff quarters?"

"Still looking. The salary is decent but Edinburgh is expensive. Might do another flatshare with another researcher, or a PhD student," she mused, humming in delight as she took a bite from the chicken.

"I just bought and kitted a four bedroom flat in Old Town. You're welcome to be my guest while you look," he offered.

She was grateful for having food in her mouth as it gave her a few more precious moments to think while she chewed. After two months of back and forth, this felt like more than just a kindness. There was an invitation in his eyes that she wanted to accept. "Are you sure I wouldn't be a bother?" She finally asked.

"Not at all, it would be nice to have company," he suggested almost nonchalantly.

By the way Charlie was looking between the two of them, not very successfully.

"That is the least I can do for a nice place to stay for a bit, thank you," she smiled before turning to her brother. "So...any news?" She raised a brow conspiratorially.

He looked around the table and since no one was paying them any attention, allowed himself to grin and nod. She wanted to squeal with delight but tempted herself down and beamed at him happily instead. "Well, I guess one can never have too many brothers," she teased, glad that Charlie found his happiness with his partner.

He snorted and looked at Fenrir who was chuckling beside them at their exchange and rolled his eyes. "Sure, that's one way to look at it."

The afternoon passed easily in the garden. For once the weather was an actual scorcher and held out beautifully for them all to enjoy. Ginny was sitting down to have a cuppa in the shade after speaking with everyone when a pair of muscled legs appeared in her vision and she followed them up to Fenrir's intense gaze.

"Charlie and I have to get back on the road, sadly," he explained, checking the watch on his wrist and nodding. They should be able to make it in good time.

"Let me see you out," she offered and they headed around the house to where she spotted a massive Land Rover barely fitting into the left over parking space.

"When were you thinking of coming up to Scotland?"

"Next week," she admitted. "To give me some time in September to settle in the job and look for a place. Does that work for you?"

He nodded. "I'll send instructions for your movers if that is helpful?"

"Oh, I don't have that much. My flat came fully furnished so I only have some clothes and a suitcase of books and workout gear. I'll pinch a ride or take a train up," she explained.

"You're not driving?" He looked surprised.

She shook her head. "When I get back to Cambridge, I'm selling it to my flatmate. Makes sense, it will leave me with some extra cash for a newer one, this little old lady is pretty beaten up,"she chuckled and patted the boot lid.

He brought out his phone and tapped in it for a few moments before grinning. "Think you will be ready for travel by next Thursday?"

She raised a curious brow. "I was going to travel on Thursday or Friday, depending on available trains."

He shook his head. "We'll be heading back up on Thursday. I'm driving by myself, so I can detour to pick you up on the way. If you think you can manage the drive with me?"

Ginny didn't even hesitate when replying. "I'll be ready on Thursday," she agreed and was going to say something else but instead stepped closer and reached up to wrap a hand around the back of his neck and pulled his head down enough for her to land a kiss to his cheek. "Thank you," she breathed and was about to pull away when his arm wrapped around her back and their bodies pressed close, their noses bumping momentarily before he leaned his head and kissed her properly.

Fucking finally, she thought as her lips parted under the pressure of his tongue and her fingers dug into his wavy hair, getting a soft growl in response. When she first met him, she had thought he was massive but good grief everywhere she touched she felt the ripple of his bulk under the shirt. She didn't usually move this quickly but something about the way his hands held onto her was firm, non-negotiable but careful enough she knew she was safe. It was a heady feeling and she pressed even closer, her back arching against his almost eagerly. He smelled of salt, vetiver and citrus, and the kiss was making her head spin but all she wanted to do was-

"Gin-gin?" Charlie's voice interrupted them and with a final nip to her bottom lip Fenrir pulled away, putting a bit of space between them to not be so obvious.

"Hey, just over here," she smiled, hoping she didn't look snogged into next Saturday.

Charlie rounded the cars and looked at them both, his gaze narrowing a little at her clearly swollen lips.

She tried to distract him with a sad little smile. "Did I tell you I'm selling Ellie to Padma?" she patted the boot lid of her car wistfully.

"Thank God for that, I can't remember how much time this piece of crap spent at the garage," he snickered despite her huff of protest and pulled her into a hug. "It was so good to see you, happy birthday again, Gin-gin," he said softly, only for the two of them as Fenrir busied himself with loading up the leftovers he brought over into the car.

"Thanks Char. I'll see you soon? You need to answer my Skype call from time to time," she poked his firm stomach pointedly.

"Will do, message me," he dropped a kiss to the top of her head and slid into the passenger side of the car.

Fenrir stepped up to her and leaned down to drop a kiss to her cheek. "I'll message you ahead of Thursday to make final arrangements," he promised before his lips quirked a little. "Happy birthday, Little Red," he hummed with a grin, watching her roll her eyes at the nickname fondly before waving them off, watching the Land Rover disappear around the bend of the field.

She had a feeling the next few weeks were going to be an absolute whirlwind…

---

Everything she owned was packed neatly and ready for pick up. Padma said her goodbyes the night before as she got into the car Ginny passed on to her and headed off to visit her twin sister who was studying in Oxford.

The flat was neat and silent and she was getting jittery so she decided to head out and get some food. Fenrir had texted her at five thirty this morning to say he was on the road and to expect him around ten. It was coming up to nine thirty and she was as ready as could be so she walked down and around a couple of the smaller streets near their flat into Mary's cafe. She picked them up some of Mary's famous scones filled with delicious clotted cream and damson conserve, and a couple of toasties she could heat up at the flat for them.

Struggling with a couple of coffee cups and two paper bags of food while she searched for her keys, she missed the sound of the opening doors behind her.

"Need help there?" The unmistakable Scottish brogue made her look up, the edge of her small coin purse in her teeth. She looked back down to her hands when she felt a bag tipping but he caught it deftly, easily carrying the coffee holder and bags while she sorted out keys and invited him in and up the stairs.

"Thank you, just thought you would be hungry," she meant it as a statement but the last word came up a bit higher at the end like a question.

"Starving," he admitted with an easy grin, his eyes sparkling green and gold as he looked at her.

Food clearly wasn't the only thing on his mind and she could easily say the tension between them was as exquisite as it was torturous.

"Good, I hope you like toasties and scones. I wasn't sure how you take coffee so I got you an americano but can always add milk," she offered.

"Perfect, thank you," he nodded and looked around the flat curiously as she led him to the kitchen.

They chatted about their week over breakfast and she enjoyed the way his gaze lingered on her face and her legs, peeking from a knee-length white sundress she adored to wear for comfort.

She put the dishes into the dishwasher and looked around the flat, her warm smile turning a bit nostalgic at the memories of her life here with Padma and her friends.

"Would you like some time to say goodbye?"

He asked from where he was leaning on the doorframe, barely fitting beneath it as he ducked.

"No, I'm ready," she promised and once the suitcases were loaded up, she walked through the flat once more before locking up and dropping the keys into the letterbox. With a final look from her seat in the Land Rover, she said her silent goodbyes to her previous life and turned to smile at the man she suspected was taking her into her future.

"It's a long drive, are we stopping on the way?"

He nodded. "At least twice to get some coffee and stretch our legs. You'll find a blanket on the back seat for the evening if you get cold," he offered.

"Thank you, that's thoughtful," she acknowledged and they lapsed into comfortable silence.

She couldn't recall the last time someone drove her for a long distance. Last time Adrian tried was when they took a short trip to the Celtic Manor but he talked about the upcoming matches and new team members the whole way in between bouts of Linkin Park from his stereo. It wasn't a smooth drive and she dreaded it. When she looked at Fenrir, his large frame was seated comfortably, his expression relaxed and calm but gaze focused as he checked his mirrors and changed lanes. There was no awkward attempt to fill in the silence. They would talk when they were comfortable and he was perfectly fine with that.

Once the afternoon tiredness began settling in for her, she noticed he was starting to look a bit tired as well so she asked about the upcoming World Cup in September and how the team was preparing. And they talked for most of the rest of the journey before finally approaching Edinburgh around eight in the evening.

The city was magical in the late summer sunlight and she looked around in wonder, realising he was watching her when they stopped at a red light.

"It's beautiful," she admitted with wonder.

"Stunning," he replied but he wasn't looking at the city but rather taking in her sweet freckled face before focusing back on the road when the light changed.

She caught the gaze and for the first time wondered whether there was a catch to this arrangement. Would he have expectations on her now that they lived together, albeit temporarily? She liked to believe that wasn't the case considering the way he messaged her, but that was very different to spending time together in real life.

Half an hour later they were done with taking the luggage up to the flat and she looked around in wonder at the gorgeous, spacious rooms that had modern elements but lovely ornate furniture that was surely antique. She had never lived this way before despite the fame being Adrian's girlfriend brought, but she was sure it was an adjustment she could make for the time being.

Fenrir stood in the doorway of her room, leaning against the wall beside it. She noticed he was definitely ready for a cuppa and bed after the twelve hours of driving. "Thank you for having me, and riding me up today. I'm ready to drop, and so are you by the looks of it," she teased.

"Sleep does sound blissful," he grinned and pulled her into his body as she approached. "I hope you like it here. Breakfast and a tour of the city tomorrow?" He offered.

"Sounds good, thank you," she leaned up and kissed the corner of his lips, letting the man hold her close for a moment longer before taking a step back and leaving her to settle in.

There was something about him that steadied her despite the intent in his burning gaze…

September 2007

"I'm just saying, he has that alpha male big dick energy about him."

"Padma!" She laughed at her cheeky grin.

"What? Honestly! I know overall size doesn't always translate to proportionate sizing elsewhere but I swear he has this aura about him," she waved the magazine in front of her laptop for Ginny to see the cover.

"We are literally just walking around Edinburgh, that's all we're doing, the photos are blurry and that is what you get from them? He has big dick energy?" She rolled her eyes.

"I don't know, does he?" Padma grinned, waiting patiently for a reply.

Ginny raised a brow at the challenge. "I wouldn't know, he's a perfect gentleman and helping me settle in," she said pointedly.

Well, it was true that he was a gentleman, but she could tell he was giving her space and holding back a bit from moving them forward. He wouldn't have to wait long at this point, she was ready just the same.

"You'll have to find out and tell me then," Padma grinned cheekily.

"Sorry love, I don't kiss and tell," she sing-songed.

"Kissing is boring, a shag-and-tell is much more interesting."

"And this is where I say goodbye. Speak soon, bye!" Ginny ended the call on her friend, grinning when she received a text in response a minute later

This conversation is not over! ;)

"Fuck me," she groaned and rubbed her face tiredly, pushing her laptop away to focus back on her studies.

"I wasn't under the impression Padma fancied you for such an offer."

She jumped about a mile at the sound of his voice and turned to look at him in surprise. "You're home! When did you get in?" She closed her books and started tidying her notes up so she wasn't taking up the whole table.

"Just in time for this riveting conversation, and sight," his eyes took her in carefully.

It wasn't that she was always made up. Between his schedule prepping for the Cup and her out looking at flats and discovering the city, they haven't seen each other as much as they would like for the past couple of weeks. She was always in jeans or a nice dress, and he was out first thing in the morning without seeing her sleep attire. Not that he didn't hope she slept like he did, in the nude…. This was certainly a step up. The black leggings hugged her shapely legs and the rugby Jersey she was wearing was surprisingly in the Socttish colours. Her hair was swinging around her in a long ponytail and her freckled face was bare other than for a blush rising on her cheeks at being interrupted.

"I like to be comfortable when I study," she shrugged. They shared a space, it was inevitable he would bump into her in her bum clothes, though she didn't think it would be today as she had plans for a night tour or the castle later on and would have missed him. "How come you're early?" She asked.

"We're having a two day rest before resuming final prep. I have this afternoon and tomorrow to myself before we need all heads back in the game," he walked over to her and touched the sleeve of the rugby polo she was wearing. "A new addition to your wardrobe?" He raised a curious brow.

She shrugged though her blush grew a bit hotter. "Charlie got me this one a couple of years back. I always wanted to support the country he was playing for. Haven't had a chance to wear it yet but it's very comfortable and I like the colours."

"Well, here you are absolutely invited to and encouraged to wear these colours," his grin deepened. "Though I am sure you are perfectly lovely without it as well."

She rose from her seat and toyed with the edge of the polo as if in contemplation. "I mean it is quite warm today, I might be comfortable to take it off…" she said softly, her voice a bit husky as she hoped the invitation would encourage him to finally stop this infernal dance they've been doing back and forth while the tension between them was becoming palpable.

"Is that so?" His tall frame crowded her and she found herself sitting atop the table, narrowly missing one of the hardbacks, and her thighs welcomed his hips between them so he could lean down until their faces were level. "What about these leggings?" He asked, his touch searing as it travelled the length of her thigh and squeezed the fleshy bit where her legs met her arse.

"Hmmm I'm getting very warm, I think they can come off as well," he whispered across his lips before they finally clashed together in a heated kiss.

She clung to his jumper like her life depended on it as he angled her body slightly until her back arched and they pressed closer, his large callused hand slipping under the polo, making her shudder in anticipation.

"Are you sure?" He growled softly against her lips, eyes bright, a darker malachite green with golden flecks. His thumb caressed her chin sensually before his hand slid down the column of her throat, not squeezing just holding, but a presence with a clear message. He wasn't just asking if she was ready. He was no inexperienced boy and took his pleasure on his own terms and wondered whether she was comfortable with exploring that side of herself and himself.

If he expected for her to hesitate, he was surprised when her gaze darkened, chocolate and molten with heat as she took in a shuddering breath. "Very sure," she panted softly.

"And we're safe?" he asked.

She nodded. "IUD."

He didn't need further confirmation, surging forward to catch her lips in another breathless kiss that made her head spin. His hands were steady in their mission to undress her, separating them as he pulled the polo off her and flicked her bra open and off in moments. He dropped his own shirt that pressed forward until she was laid out on the table, arching into the solid wall of his chest as he kissed her hungrily and pushed her arms up above her head towards the other end of the table. She gripped the edge, her body open to his touch as she rubbed her hips against him needfully.

A soft pleased growl was her response as he hooked her leggings and knickers together at the hips around his fingers and drew them down and off, leaving her completely naked to his sight. He took her in, caressing a line down her thigh and she realised she wished she had shaved her legs at least if she had known today was the day but he didn't seem to be the least bit bothered as he leaned down and sucked on of her rosy nipples, his tongue flicking over the pebbled flesh until she felt the sensation trail down her spine and made her body rub against him harder.

It's been a while, since her break up with Adrian really, and this pleasure was only too exquisite. He knelt down between her splayed thighs and pulled her right up to the edge until he could press his tongue flat against her mons and up to her clit, flicking the little bundle of nerves playfully, watching her shoulders arch sharply at the contact. She was wonderfully responsive and Fenrir was finding himself impatient to feel her. He wanted to take his time, and he would do so later tonight, but for now, he wanted her coming on his tongue, hands and cock until she couldn't walk.

One of her hands snaked its way into his hair, holding onto the bun atop his head he chucked his hair into, as his tongue flicked her clit relentlessly. She was about to open her mouth and ask for more when she felt one of his thick fingers rub along the seam of her cunt before pressing in, steady but without hesitation. He could feel how soaked she was from attention so far and her body opened up to him without resistance as he pressed all the way down to his knuckle and curled his finger to find her spot.

Her eyes widened when he found the patch of spongy flesh and her hips arched into his touch, seeking the spark of pleasure again. He grinned up at her, flicking her clit one more before rising to loom over her. He pulled her into a deep kiss, encouraged when she hummed at the taste of herself on his tongue, before pressing another finger inside her, feeling the walls stretch a bit to accommodate him.

She gripped his shoulder and ground herself with her hold onto the edge of the table. He kissed a path down her throat, nipping on her shoulder as he began thrusting his fingers at a building pace, sensing her body's reaction as she tried to thrust back against his touch until he was too fast, fucking those beautiful squelching walls. A soft wail left her right when she was on the edge. And he could tell, she had tightened around him so much he could barely move now.

He lifted up off her body and stepped to the side, pressing his hand against her belly slightly as he got new leverage and his wrist picked up pace. "Look at me," he called to her over the wet sound of his fingers and when their gaze connected, he held it for a breath before speaking a single word and tilting her word on its axis. "Come."

It was like she wasn't in charge of her body at all. The tone of his voice left no room for doubt, it was a command and her body snapped into attention, the coil within her snapping as she came with a whimper and a soft cry, arching off the table as he fucked her through her orgasm, her essence coming out in spurts, covering his arm, the floor beneath them and landing across her belly as well.

He gave her a moment as she shuddered through the aftershocks, her body holding him like a vice until it loosened a few moments later and he pulled out carefully. He tapped her clit with his flat palm on the way out and watched her jump a little at the sensation before she allowed herself a moment to rest, thighs shaking a little from the intensity.

He grabbed his shirt to clean up some of the moisture, making sure her books and laptop were safe before easily lifting her hips and placing her polo beneath them to capture any trickles. He leaned down over her splayed out form and grinned into their kiss as she brought her hands down to card her fingers through his hair and beard.

"You're exquisite, I'm going to enjoy exploring you, taking you at my leisure," he hummed, their noses bumping.

Her teeth sunk into her bottom lip as she tried to stem the wild beating of her heart. There was Adrian's territorial behaviour and then there was this - the sure way Fenrir handled her, his certainty in having her, and the need to possess her but most of all, the respect he handled her with. It was so heady she felt something click into place inside as she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him into a firm kiss, needing to feel him over her, pressing her down with his bulk until she could barely breathe.

"Bed...take me...please," she added, rubbing against his loins where she felt his hand length ready to burst from its confines.

He pulled her thighs around his hips, secured his arms around her before he straightened up and carried her carefully but without strain to his bedroom, the massive bed clearly made to hold him and four more normal sized humans comfortably.

"And how would you like me to take you, hmm?" He hummed as he set her down on the mattress and stepped back to drop his trousers and underwear.

Her gaze dipped down to his length and she bit back a groan. Big dick energy confirmed, Padma was going to have a fucking field day. He wasn't a massive monstrosity but certainly beyond average and she had seen plenty in a house full of boys and lockers of the rugby team.

"Shall I take you like this, splay you back and take my time with you?" He caressed her calf teasingly before his fingers dug into her fleshy thigh. "Would you like to ride me until your thighs shake?" His fingers trailed up her body until they squeezed her throat slightly in both invitation and warning. "Or perhaps you'd like to press your face down and lift this gorgeous arse up for me to fuck you until you can't hold your weight up, hmm? What will it be, Little Red?" His voice was soft but controlled, and there was a darkness in his gaze that thrilled and frightened her equally. Not because she thought he would hurt her, or perhaps he would if she asked, but the thought of enjoying it had her hesitant.

He noted her hesitation and his thumb caressed her jawline gently, reassuringly. It was all she needed to pull him down atop her and into a passionate kiss, their teeth clinking slightly in her haste, making him chuckle against her lips.

"Like this first..please?" she asked as he moved to lay atop her, holding his weight up on his elbow to not crush her smaller frame. She wrapped her arms around his shoulders, wanting him closer, wanting to feel his weight atop her and he finally allowed more of it as their hips ground together and he allowed her thighs to cradle him for a moment.

"First...I like the sound of that," he nipped her bottom lip before pulling her into another kiss as his hands guided her thighs more open and higher up to his ribs, allowing him to align his hips and smoothly press home.

She was so warm, wet and open, he felt his hips kiss hers fully and groaned at the sensation of her taking him fully. Ginny's nails dug into his shoulder as her muscles were stretched in ways they haven't been for many months, but she savoured the burn that came with the pleasure.

He didn't ask if she was alright, merely gave her a moment until she ground against him in invitation, and pulled back nearly all the way out before thrusting back in, hitting her deep spot head on. A soft keen escaped her lips and she tried to clamp it down, memory of Adrian's reprimand at distracting his concentration still fresh in her memory.

Fenrir pulled her hands from his shoulders and pressed her down into the mattress, their hands and fingers laced tightly above her head in a gesture of partnership, of holding onto each other despite being so pinned down by his frame. He nipped her bottom lips again until she let him in, kissing her deeply and loving the soft sounds of pleasure, her breathless whines and soft keens. "No holding back, I want to hear you…" he panted, encouraging her as he rubbed his hips down, pleased he managed to get some friction for her clit when she arched into him.

"Yes yes yes..harder," she pleaded, needing to feel him deeper, closer, a part of her needing to be surrounded by him.

He could feel her already starting to flutter around him and kept his thrusts short, deep and made sure to rub against her pulsing clit as he watched her come apart beneath him in no time at all. He gritted his teeth at the feel of her around him, delicious and soft. It has been a few months since he last took a few casual dates but the memory of the redhead stayed with him for some reason, and he was fucking ecstatic he was finally able to enjoy her.

She just managed to get her breathing under control as he gently separated their bodies. "One more?"

Ginny hesitated, sure she would be sore in the morning but nodded. She was confused when he got off the bed though. "Where are you going?"

"Just here," he went to one of the drawers by the bed and pulled out a small bottle of lube. "Didn't want you to get sore, and it's a nice cooling one. You're not allergic to silicone?" he checked.

Speechless, Ginny just shook her head no and watched him warm up the lube on his fingers before covering himself and rubbing the rest over her sensitive flesh. He pressed a couple of his fingers inside carefully and she gasped at the feel of the soothing gel. It was doing wonders already. He leaned down to kiss her once more before that dark little grin returned and he turned her over, lifting her hips up off the mattress.

Her breath hitched at being handled that way and in anticipation of his next move. He pressed back inside her carefully, making sure she was ready and comfortable with him seated so deeply in this position before he gripped her hips firmly and set a maddeningly slow pace. He was getting closer to the edge himself, but wanted one more out of her, one more for him before they got some rest.

She keened at the slow and deep pace, fingers digging into the sheets to hold onto something to ground herself. This was fucking exquisite, she had never been taken like this or came so many times in a row without it being by her own hand. She just needed...something, she thought as her sensitive body started to once again climb towards a peak.

Her back arched in surprise when his hand left her hip and instead wrapped around her ponytail, holding onto it and pulling her back into an arch that changed his angle inside her slightly until he was pressing against her cervix. "Fuck…" she panted. "Ungh...Fenrir…I need…" she didn't know what it was, but she needed something more.

He paused and wrapped an arm under her chest to support her as he sat back and brought her with him, her legs straining to kneel wide enough to accommodate his hips and press back against his solid frame.

"I know just what you need, Little Red…." he hummed in her ear, his hips resuming their deep thrusts as his hand rested on her throat, holding her securely and just tight enough to hold her in place without restraining her breathing too much. By the way she shuddered and arched in his grip, he knew she was receptive to this side of his desires.

He kept the rhythm of deep thrusts as he held her close, his fingers splayed over her coarse copper curls and flicking her over-stimulated clit mercilessly. She could feel another one building, not as strong as the first one but just as deep and so very close.

Another soft keen left her tight throat as her fingers scrambled to hold onto his arm but all her efforts were undone when his hold on her tightened and he once again whispered for her to come.

She flew apart into a supernova, clutching onto him as wave after wave of pleasure rolled down her spine and short-circuited her brain. She vaguely felt him coming with her before she went blank.

She came to herself a few moments later, settled comfortably on the bed but alone. She looked around in confusion before she heard water running in the adjoining bathroom.

Fenrir joined her and his grin softened into a smile as he leaned down and picked her up. "Alright?" he asked as he carried her to the bathroom.

"I think so, though if you expect me to be coherent, you'll have to give me some time to recover," she hissed as he settled her on the cold toilet seat.

"I'll be right back, thought you'd want to clean up. I'll get us some water as well," he promised and handed her a warm damp flannel to clean up with after she peed.

Ginny took care of cleaning up before slowly making her way back to the bedroom and settling on the edge of the bed. There was something different about being with Fenrir than any of her previous experiences. They seemed to just click in many ways, he understood what she needed, he knew his way around her body and didn't appear to be one bit squeamish about her bodily needs or functions. And if tonight was anything to go by, there was a deliciously dark side to his desire, as well as to hers it appeared, something she hadn't explored before but hoped to do in the future.

Fenrir appeared in the doorway, clearly comfortable and unconcerned for his nudity as he handed her a glass of water and climbed into bed, patting the space beside him. She finished it thirstily and moved to lay down, propping her head up on her hand as she reached up to card her fingers through the salt and pepper hair on his chest.

"Now what?" she looked at him as he grinned down at her.

"I mean if you want to go again, I'll need a minute. Unlike you I'm not in my twenties anymore," he teased but pulled her closer when she smacked his chest lightly for the cheek.

"You know what I mean," she rested her head atop his chest contently, listening to the steady and strong beat of his heart.

"We go as we were before. I would like to show you more Scotland, take you out to dinner, and see how we do. You have the new academic year beginning shortly and I'll need to get our team through the World Cup. Let's take it one day at a time and if you feel like you fancy tying yourself down with an old man, I'm right here and we can make that decision when we come to it. Fair?" he offered, eyes soft but expression earnest and serious.

He was willing to go at her pace after the last time she was disappointed by a man from his world, and she both respected and appreciated him all the more for it. "I would like that," she said softly and leaned up to kiss him, enjoying his roughened hands on her soft skin as he pulled her closer.

Yes, this definitely felt like her life was aligning and she couldn't wait to find out what happened for them next.

March 2008

Ginny shouted in delight with the rest of the section when the game finished and Soctland narrowly beat the English team. She could see the relief in Daphne's face and hugged her tightly for a moment as they watched the players line up to shake hands. This Six Nations had been painful to watch for the Scots this year, and especially for the partners of the national team. After getting knocked out in the Quarter finals of the World cup last year, they hoped the team would get into the swing of things this year with the Six Nations, but after three losses already, their hopes had been low. This game against England had however proven to finally break the bad spell and lead them to victory.

She knew that when the team was adapting to a change in strategy, it took a year or so for all members to find their feet, the younger to meld with the older, and that was precisely what their overhaul of strategy was. Fenrir worked hard and sometimes long overs over training charts, strategy and reviews of previous games to assist the Head Coach with the team's new direction. But she was there when he crawled into bed in the early morning hours, and left him breakfast with a note for when he got up as she left for the clinic or on a research trip a few hours later. And despite the challenges of their schedules, adapting to new roles and the media once again starting up about their relationship, it had been a gratifying six months getting to know the man she knew in her heart she loved.

"Come on, let's go see them," Daphne rounded up her girls and Ginny offered to carry little Agnes as they made their way to the family room inside the stadium.

They waited for the players to join them and Ginny greeted some of them as she handed Agnes to Gregory and patted his arm before going in search of Fenrir. He was lounging just inside the doorway and opened his arm for her as she came to hug his waist.

"Congratulations," she offered and accepted a quick kiss.

"Thank you, though I think we'll have to review the match again ahead of the next game," he sighed. "Thank you for coming, I know it hasn't been easy," he said softly.

Ginny shrugged. "If I wanted it easy, I wouldn't be doing the work I do or dating you. But I'm here, with you," she said simply.

Their relationship was medialised as scandalous. Nearly a twenty year age gap, accusations of her being after Fnerir's money and status, interviews with people whom she previously knew and trusted, and of course Adrian as well who was only too happy to speculate about their break up being due to an illicit affair on their part. It was ugly, almost implying they should have stayed a dirty secret instead of forcing everyone to put up with their relationship. As if they'd asked for the lies and slander…

His hand around her hip tightened imperceptibly. "I love that you're so steadfast," he admitted and kissed her forehead.

"And I love you," she smiled up at him as he pulled her into another soft kiss while he silently thanked all the Gods for spotting his Little Red that day nearly two years years ago.

The End.