The Wedding of the Boy Hero
Disclaimer: For my lack of imagination and ability to form words, it is just a boring old disclaimer of a poor fan trying to work out her frustration by writing about her favorite incomplete series.
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Chapter Six: Craziness of Friendship
"So who is the bride?" Aurora asked casually. Though Ginny's reactions was everything but casual. The Weasley jumped about three feet. Aurora looked at Ginny with a worried expression. Ginny didn't respond, she quickly got out her keys and opened the door. When both women were comfortably settled in the living room, that was when Aurora finally asked her questions.
"Gin, what is wrong?" The worried expression was still on Aurora's face. Her eyebrows were in a "V" over the wire-framed glasses that the auror quickly took off.
"Nothing." Aurora gave Ginny a hard look.
"After knowing you for so long, there is practically nothing you can hide from me. And even if you decide to be secretive, I always have ways of finding out." Still seeing no response from the younger redhead, the auror decided to try a different approach. She sat next to Ginny and went into mother-mode.
"Please Ginny, tell me what is wrong," Aurora began as she rubbed comforting circles on Ginny's back, much like how mothers comfort a crying child. "You know, I am not going to sleep unless you tell me!" The motherly attitude snapped backed to friendly informalities. "And you know how irritable I get!" Ginny couldn't help but laugh at her best friend.
"You are impossible you that? But the scary thing is, you actually will refrain from sleeping until you get what you wanted." Aurora replied with a wide grin.
"Now spill. I cam not sure how long I can stay awake. The Caribbean time zone is too different . . . not to mention the climate too!"
"Okay. Where should I begin?" Ginny asked. There was too much wrong. Everything is driving her insane. The little conversations inside her head about the identity of Harry's fiancée, the many apology notes and speeches she had to make, and enduring the emotional ups and downs that comes with spending time with Harry.
"How about the reason why you jumped when I asked the identity of Harry's bride?" Aurora suggested. "I know I sound highly insensitive but I am curious myself. I don't think anyone was that involved with Harry. If it wasn't you who told me this, I would have thought you were the bride!" Ginny looked at her friend in surprise.
"Oh don't tell me you didn't notice Ginny! He always flirts with you, though I suppose he is much more subtle than Draco . . . but I digress."
"Aurora, what you are saying isn't helping me at all!" Ginny complained, though it sounded more like a whine. Aurora nodded her head silently while patting Ginny's head gingerly.
"Sorry?" It was odd for an auror to squeak, but this was Aurora. Apologies and thanks come out of her mouth every five seconds (and they are always squeaked out). That prank Harry and Ron played on her had rubbed off. Now the Slytherin graduate apologizes like crazy. At least this time, Aurora didn't go on and on and on.
"Anyway, back on that nasty, horrid, annoying, icky subject!" Aurora looked at Ginny in surprise. Some must have struck Ginny's nerve repeatedly for the redhead to have such a big reaction to it. This would be the time a redhead temper is even outdone, though Ginny is a redhead.
"Well, it was Christmas eve when I got a letter from Harry asking me to plan his wedding. It was also the day that you left too . . ." Ginny paused as she struggled mentally. Should she tell her best friend that she was suspicious or should she skip over? The look on Aurora's face gave a quick answer. After taking interrogation lessons, Aurora is pretty familiar with how to question a person.
"Go on Ginny, tell me everything. Every little detail, even the little conversations with your subconscious – I know you get them quite often," Aurora coaxed showing she wouldn't mind what Ginny said, even if it meant accusing her of murder . . . well, not really, but Ginny would never do that.
"My initial reaction when I found out you weren't there was 'Oh my! Don't tell me it was Aurora.' I had saw an article earlier about you being engaged to Harry." Aurora nodded slowly making Ginny nervous. Is her best friend mad at her assumption? When she saw the dark-haired girl shrugged while trying to hide a smile of utter surprise, Ginny continued.
"I knew that was outrageous since you said yourself you will never marry a Gryffindor. But anyway, all sorts of assumptions popped in my head. Though I have to say you popped out a lot. It's just your letters were not so . . . deep?" Ginny looked up expectantly at her friend hoping to get a better word for the feeling.
"Uh . . . I am sorry about that. It . . . well, I . . . uh . . . erg!"
"Oh? You have something to hide?" Ginny teased feeling more at ease. The red coloring on the usually composed auror's face was enough to send Ginny into giggles. It usually takes a lot to send the Slytherin into mental unbalance, although only small amounts of caffeine and sugar are needed.
"Nope, nothing!" Aurora answered too quickly. Ginny gave her the Weasley version of a Slytherin questioning look. "Oh right. It might have to do with the fact that the stupid ministry reserved a honeymoon suite for Draco and I, and that I has to change my image into an auburn bimbo hanging on the arm of a new Malfoy. Brown hair does not suit him! Eck. This is the last time I am actually unbelievably flirtatious and somehow keep my IQ at the same level while gazing at Mr. PMS through my too-long eyelashes."
Ginny could already imagine the scenario and Aurora would definitely be squirming in discomfort. It had taken her three years to get Aurora to confess she didn't hate Malfoy as much as she acted like she did. This mission probably was just as uneasy as planning Harry's wedding. At least Ginny was 100% sure her best friend was engaged to her crush/male best friend.
"But back to you. I seriously didn't know Harry was engaged. The last time I check, the bimbos at the front desk flirted with Harry and Draco shamelessly. Seeing them makes me want to gag. But then again, those observations did help me with my role, which I believe helped shorten the mission by half a year." Aurora continued; it was a sure thing she liked to talk. That's why Ginny and her got along. Ginny listen, Aurora talks; Aurora listen, Ginny talks.
"Okay, but Harry won't tell me who his bride is and I happen to be the maid of honor," Ginny mumbled as calmly as possible. The frustration was enough to increase her voice to allow people in China to hear her.
"He what?!" Aurora exclaimed jumping out of her seat. Somehow this had make Aurora frustrated as well. Her hair now resembled a bird nest and Ginny was positive there would be a hole in the carpet (if she had any carpet).
"But to make matters worse, Hermione, Lavender, and Parvati are bridesmaids. And they won't even tell me who the freaking bride is!!" Ginny had lost control of her emotions. It actually felt good to be able to blow up like that. The cathartic complaining had released all her tension and with a small smile, Ginny added, "Did you know that Harry is about as indecisive as a person can be?"
Aurora blinked twice. Then three more times. "You know what? This is giving me a headache. I am going to take a nap and clear my jet-lagged brain. Besides, I have to report to the ministry soon anyway, I'll yell at Potter later. And if I am lucky – or unlucky as the case may be – I will find some secretaries to take my anger out on. A certain platinum blonde auror is a good source of venting out frustration too. He didn't even help me with my luggage."
Ginny looked at her friend unsure of what to do. She watched idly as Aurora settled on the couch and arrived in Dreamland. Well, that's Aurora – acting on whims. The definition of randomness should be "see Classen, Aurora". Knowing watching a person sleep was not very productive and smart for a wedding planner to do, Ginny opened her portfolio and began working on her arrangements. Halfway through, Mimi came back from her flying adventure. It seems the owl thought her next stunt was to show how much she likes the sleeping Aurora. This usually consisted of owlish shrieking, snuggling, and tickling the person's nose with wing feathers. That had been quite a task for Ginny since Mimi had extraordinary strength and energy for one so small.
THUMP! Ginny had been chasing Mimi and keeping her from Aurora for 15 minutes already. The living room looked like it had barely survived an earthquake. It was surprising how Aurora was able to sleep through all the ruckus. Suddenly, a high-pitched beep sounded from nowhere. The noise surprised both the owl and its owner causing the two to fall over a wooden chair. Obviously, another loud noise was made, that didn't matter since the auror was already awake.
"Darn the socks!" Aurora cursed. She looked attentive and was ready for another assignment from the ministry. Ginny was tried to keep herself from laughing. Sure Aurora looked attentive, but somehow she didn't notice the odd sight of Ginny tangled in a chair with Mimi caught between Ginny and the chair. "I have to leave Gin. The ministry just called. Ginny?" This was when Aurora finally did look up. She saw the mess and the tangled bodies and object with unfazed expressions. "Would you like to join me to a trip to the lovely Ministry of Magic?"
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Apparating is much better than using portkeys, Ginny thought. At least then, I don't have to worry about touching grotesque portkeys and landing on someone. Thank goodness I feel embarrassment now. I don't know how I would have handled the dinner if my face decided to stay beet red.
"Ginny?" Aurora asked making Ginny jump mentally. When the redhead realized she didn't appear on someone, she relaxed visibly. "Your face is red. What happened?"
"Oh nothing," Ginny muttered feeling her cheeks get hotter no matter how hard she tried. Aurora gave Ginny her famous "If that was true, I am a mountain troll" look. "I'm just not very keen on popping out of nowhere . . ." Ginny trailed off hoping Aurora would understand and let the subject drop.
"You are a horrible actress," Aurora said with a laugh. "I know you always loved to apparate and dissaparate. The only means of 'popping out of no where' that you do not like that much is portkeys. And that is because you didn't like the trash that was used to make one. Relax Ginny. Seeing Harry shouldn't be that hard. You have to plan his wedding, so better gather your wits together and march in their like a stuck-up professional. And if he bothers you, I will be there in a second to throw his a punch or hex, whatever is easiest."
"How am I supposed to gather my wits when the last time we were together, I landed on him due to the stupid portkeys, then those street musicians made me dance with him on New Years Eve with fireworks going off!" Ginny explained with trying to keep her voice in check. It wasn't loud, but the fierce stage whisper was enough to show how tense she felt. "Then I stomp off without apparating; Harry probably think I am stupid or something."
Ginny knew she was being childish, but a person is allowed a break once in a while. She noticed Aurora's mouth was in a not so well mannered O. "I am ready to go in now!" Ginny announced. Without waiting for Aurora's reaction, Ginny walked confidently like a stuck-up professional to the font door of the elegant building also known as the Ministry of Magic headquarters.
"May I see you ID please?" the doorman questioned Ginny.
"Hi Jack, don't worry about her ID. You have seen Miss Weasley many times," Aurora's voice came from behind.
"Sorry Miss Classen, but minister orders. Security must be increased. We can't let non-ministry workers enter," Jack the doorman answered. Uh-oh. Thinking on feet is needed.
"Miss Weasley is planning a very important event for Mr. Potter. She has an appointment with him." Aurora looked at watch and continued, "And she is already 10 minutes late."
"I am very sorry Miss Classen. It isn't that I don't believe you, but we have a policy." Then he turned to Ginny. "Miss . . . Weasley? Do you have your temporary pass?" Ginny looked at Aurora completely confused.
"Uh . . ." Seeing Aurora's signal to lie, Ginny muttered, "I forgot the pass."
"I am sorry Miss Weasley. Let me get Mr. Potter, he needs to grant you admission." Out of the corner of Ginny's vision, she could see Aurora being childish – stamping the ground silently and pouting. "Miss Classen, you may enter now." Ginny struggled to maintain her "professional" exterior when Jack turned to speak to Aurora. The auror was still pouting. Deciding it was better for her image to just walk off, Aurora left Ginny at the entrance.
"Should I just wait here?" Ginny asked.
"Have a seat Miss Weasley. Wait while I find Mr. Potter." Jack brought Ginny into his mini office and he went to his makeshift fireplace. A head popped to the small opening of the door. It was Aurora.
"I'll fetch Harry," she mouthed.
"I am sorry Miss Weasley," Jack the doorman said after a few minutes. "I cannot find Mr. Potter." Just as Jack said that, a nicely dressed Harry Potter landed in the middle of the small office.
"Ow, I think my tailbone is going to be bruised."
"Harry?!" Ginny asked jumping to her feet. "Are you alright? What happened? Nothing is hurt besides your tailbone right?"
"Hi Ginny," Harry replied unnaturally calm for someone who just landed on his behind. "The next time Aurora is mad at me, please give me a warning. She decided to use the hurling hex on me the first thing in the morning."
~*~ finis for now ~*~
Omni's Rambles: I think I am getting good at ending at the worst time. But if I do not stop now, you will never get to read this by the end of the week. Things will get more interesting now. The next chapter will probably be out in two weeks since fanfiction.net will be down next Friday and Saturday due to reorganization. *sniff* now I cannot unveil the identity of the bride until the week after Valentines. What am I suppose to do? *sniffle* But anyhoo, 20 reviews that need to be answered! (I like twenty, tis a multiple of 4 and 5. Two of my favorite numbers!!)
Nia 88: Well, I suppose you question is answered in my ramblings above. ^^ Hey, I was reading your bio and you speak Spanish! Or at least I can accurately say that you write in Spanish. Thank you for the enormous compliment. I personally thought the flow of the story is getting too bumpy. This one must have been the worst. Too many names and pronouns repeated.
Alphagold1(): You do?! Now tell me what your guess is. I would like to know, but I don't think I will change the plot I have in mind even if you get it right. If I do that, I would have to make too many changes. But I'mglad you like it. And Ginny will most likely remain calm until late next chapter.
CarryPotter(): You'll find out next chapter. At least I better get that far. The chapter might be 20 pages long, but I have to reveal the identity; otherwise I am going to drive myself insane.
SailorChibi: Thanks for the new titles, but this one has rubbed off on me. I probably should have changed that little note . . . And I am glad you like this!
harrylover(): Don't worry, join the club. My patience is wearing thin too, but if I had continued to reveal the identity in this chapter, my fingers would be sore. After all, Malfoy is some connected in this too.
Beth e(): I hurried, but the next chapter can't be hurried. The only time I have to write is Friday night and very early Saturday morning. Since fanfiction.net will be close then next week, I won't be able to have it up. Sorry.
Pineapplehead: Thank you! *being very perky – due to reviews and that mocha cappuccino I was drinking* And I am sort of a fan of L.M. Montgomery. I like her stories, but somehow they can't hold my attention for very long. I never got to finish the unabridged versions of her books – read the shorted version for small children in 5th grade.
marajade3081: Thanks!!! I am having fun writing this too!
Silver Witch: Really now, and did this chapter help you with anything? Most likely not. There hasn't been a lot of hints besides – you get to choose. ^^
Sara Lee: I suppose I get the same comment for this chapter too?? ^^
Pseudonym Sylphmuse: Definitely an interesting wedding. Now how am I going to write the wedding??
silver10fire: HURRYING!! I'll get started on the next chapter as soon as I can – got a Trig test and a Chemistry test next week . . . and a present my little choreographed dance to the class. Un yeah, the next chapter might be awhile. Not to mention I have a competition coming up at the end of the month. Have to finish typing its papers. Oh yeah, track season starts Monday . . .
Female Fred: Now worries! I did a retake, got better, had one of the highest score in the test (though it's not good like in the 90's, but the highest score was a low B.) And *unenthusiastic* Yay! Weight training. I am going to die Monday – my coach is going to kill me for not showing at Pre-Season. *pray for an easy practice*
Gin(): Hummm . . . if you want me to take your guess apart, send me an e-mail. ^^ But I have to say, I am not sure how to respond. But anyhoo, hope you will continue reading!!
Kitty: Won't be slash. I just don't like it . . . my opinion though. Not to mention Draco being the bride is very funny. I can imagine him scowling in a fluffy dress with lots of frilly ribbons. Though him marrying Harry is a bit unimaginable for me. The two hate each other too much.
Kylesmom: Here's more! Hopefully this one meets expectations too. And hopefully my writing has been better.
The Dragon Guardian of the Sea: Well, hope you will enjoy the rest of fic and see how it I am going to explain the rest of the plot . . . fill in the holes and dig more. So who should pair up with Parvati and Lavender. Not to mention I haven't decided on the groomsmen either. E-mail me your answer please.
Avalon: Ah I hope those test goes well too. I am done with this weeks test, but I still have the two tests and practicals for next week. Does anyone know how to write a position paper?? I could sure use help on those too! But thanks for the concern and you get a cookie. ^^ Anyhoo, this one might a cliffy too.
Aindel: More is weird? I think weird has a funny spelling. Maybe that is why it is weird. ^^ Any what happens will be answered in the next chappy. This one doesn't have too much action.
Ginny Drama: One of your choices?? How many more do you have? AND Here is one chappie posted on the same day as your review!!
Thanks for all the reviews!! Seeing the number 100 won't be bad. It would mark my first story with over 100 reviews. It shouldn't be too hard . . . not that I am begging or anything. I just like "good" numbers. Tis a perfect square, a multiple of 4 and 5, and it has zeros. (yeah, I like math too much). Anyhow, hope you enjoyed the chapter!
~Omni