Part 2!! w00t w00t!!! :D hope you guys like it... I'll keep going if you
guys want.. Lemme know how you like it!! Thanks. Ooh and thank ya'll for
the wonderful reviews that I got !! I really appreciate it. Here's a lil
thanks to all my reviewers so far:
Neni Potter, Satoriste, Evo422, catcher of dreams, starrynight394, Demosthenes42, a hopeful writer, Thank you guys so much for all your nice comments. Keep checking back, I will update twice a week I think. I have the story all plotted, it just takes awhile to get it from writing into the comp. it's sort of long. so thanks once again (I'm surprised I got any reviews) and remember to keep checking for updates.
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Harry had adjusted to his new life as a teacher at Hogwarts quite easily. A few days after Harry had written his old friend Professor Dumbledore, an owl had been sent back with an offer for the position of defense against dark arts post. Being quite glad at Dumbledore's generosity, Harry had readily accepted the offer. One thing was for sure, he was glad to be going back to the one place he had always loved. Though trying to remain on speaking terms with a certain Miss Ginny Weasley, Harry had decided not to tell her about the new job. Perhaps he did this because of her refusal to answer his owls, all of which contained notes of a renewed friendship and apologies, that he didn't tell her, but even more probable was that he thought Ginny Weasley had given up caring for him altogether. He didn't want to bring himself to believe it but being a pretty sensible man, Harry didn't rule out the idea altogether. Besides, he figured she would hear about it soon enough seeing as Ron or her mum would spill it sooner or later.
Autumn quickly faded into winter, and with it brought loneliness for Ginny Weasley. There was never a quiet moment at the Burrow, but the company was always the same. The chats with Hermione about her upcoming pregnancy, (her and Ron were expecting again), had begun to lose their novelty. Despite the warning in her heart, Ginny found herself thinking about being in the company of a certain raven-haired fellow once again. She had been getting on fine without him for the last three years, (well as good as one angry lovesick girl can be), but then he had to visit and make her remember how enchantingly green his eyes were.
Mrs. Weasley, thought getting on in years, was not at all daft. She saw the change that had come over her usually vivacious daughter, and she knew the exact cause of it. Having a perfectly brilliant idea come to mind one day and was almost shocked at the answer she received to her suggestion.
"Ginny dear, you haven't been looking too well, perhaps you're a bit under the weather?" Mrs. Weasley commented in fake concern, for she knew what was wrong.
"Oh no mum, I am quite fine I assure you. just been thinking about what Hogwarts would look like this time of the year." the younger Weasley didn't even seem to realize what had come out of her mouth, for she just sat there staring out of the window into the snow covered hills.
"I see," a smile formed on the old woman's lips as she said this. "Well, your father and I were just saying, the other day in fact, how much we'd love to send you down to Hogsmeade, seeing as you haven't been since when? Since you were in Hogwarts I'm sure. You know a bit of an early Christmas gift, you could go and see all the things you miss, make a week of it, you know? " She watched her daughters face brighten as she said this.
Trying to conceal her pleasure, Ginny answered her mother as casually as possible, "You know what mum, that sounds like a right nice idea. I'm just going to have to take you up on that offer." There was a definite change in attitude in the younger Weasley after the deal was made.
"Good, well then get packing dear," Mrs. Weasley made to leave the room.
"Wha, why so soon mum?" asked a confused Ginny.
"Oh, well your father took the liberty of booking you 8 days at the Three Broomsticks, starting tonight." Mrs. Weasley said this in a hurry and then left quickly before any protests could be made.
She didn't know exactly how it happened, though she replayed the moment over and over in her head, but suddenly Ginny Weasley found herself walking up those ever-familiar steps with a feeling of half dread and half excitement in the pit of her stomach. Having owled Prof. Dumbledore on the previous night of her arrival, Ginny had already gained permission to once again explore the many mysteries of Hogwarts. With some reluctance Ginny stepped through the towering oak doors into the great marble entry hall. The few added years since Ginny had been there had done nothing but add more magnificence to the already spectacular hall. She watched with longing as students milled about looking young and carefree. Judging from the sounds and smells wafting from the great hall, Ginny could tell it was lunchtime. Not taking a second glance at the entrance hall, Ginny made her way into the great hall and was blown away at the sight that greeted her. Whoever had done the Christmas décor had obviously put much effort into it. There was the perfect amount of garland hanging along the walls, trees in every corner, fairies that were enchanted to act as lights, and much much more. Ginny stood there for quite some time entranced by all that she saw. She was in such a state that she did not see a rather tall and green-eyed fellow come up behind her.
Harry was walking into lunch when he saw her. She was as enraptured as the first years, like she was taking in everything for the first time. He smiled as a giddy expression came over her face, making her more beautiful then ever, and promptly made his way towards her. Grabbing her arm softly, Harry nearly made Ginny jump out of her skin, and good- naturedly laughed at the expression on her face.
"What the hell - Harry! You nearly gave me a heart attack. Blimey!" Her cheeks were flushed and a glare had formed on her face as she said this. "Well that's a cute face," he said jokingly. "So why are you here Gin?" Harry was just as entranced by her face as Ginny had been by the hall.
"Certainly not to see you," she snapped back harshly. Regret clouded her mind a moment after as she saw a pained look flicker across Harry's face.
"Nice to see you too." He said as he shook his head and began to walk away.
"Harry." She began, but all he gave her was a backwards glance and distance. Ginny's arm still felt fuzzy from where he had touched her.
Pushing her conscience aside, and momentarily forgetting the rift she
had already formed between her and Harry, Ginny explored the castle and found it much unchanged and to her liking. While wondering down the corridors in an absentmindedly sort of way, Ginny suddenly found herself in front of the Defense Against The Dark Arts classroom. Sensing that no one was around she took a chance and opened the door. The coast was clear. Treading lightly, she entered the classroom and began to explore. Every window, nook, cranny, and desk held some different memory, many belonging to Ginny Weasley herself. The changes that Harry had bestowed on the room did not go unnoticed. While taking it all in, Ginny did not notice that she was not the only one in the room.
"Looking for something Miss Weasley?" asked a formal voice. The bright headed girl once again jumped at the sound of Harry's voice.
"Blimey Harry, that's twice today you've snuck up on me!" she said all this while studying his face. He didn't look angry, nor did he look pleased to see her again in such a short time, but she couldn't really blame him.
"Hmm. Well I'm sure you'll understand but I really have a lot of homework left to grade, so if you'll excuse me." He said all this while stepping aside making room for her to pass to the exit, but she didn't move.
"Look Harry," her anger rising slightly, "I'm sorry about earlier, I know I acted like the worlds biggest prat, and I'm sorry I was so bloody rude. I'm really sick of being angry at you, can't we just move on and forget about everything?" She asked meekly, almost in some reluctance.
"On one condition," his tone did not waver.
"Yes?" gulp.
"Friends again?" It was more a statement then a question, but a wild grin spread over his face as he said it, so she knew he wasn't mad anymore.
"Al-alright, friends," she said, hoping she wouldn't come to regret her decision. However, she was quite relieved that she didn't have to put up a false front of anger around him anymore.
"Good," Harry said nodding his head in agreement before barraging her with all sorts of questions like; where are you staying, how long, why, etc etc. Ginny went on to say that her mum and dad had arranged all this, she told about Hogsmeade and the Three Broomsticks and how she was leaving just before Christmas. Harry kept an alert audience and asked questions in all the right places without seeming too nosy, though it couldn't help to be noted, he looked very pleased indeed to hear all of this.
"Well Harry, it is getting rather late and I really should be getting back to the inn before it gets entirely too dark," she shifted nervously in the darkening classroom.
"I'll walk you back," he said while fastening his cloak.
"Oh that really won't be necessary," Ginny may have accepted his offer for being friends, but having not had a decent conversation with him in over 3 years, she certainly didn't want to find herself in the situation of a moonlit stroll with him.
"I insist," his tone was final. Sighing in defeat, Ginny left the classroom followed closely by Harry.
The two walked on in silence, which Ginny, to say the least, was very thankful for. Snow covered the Hogwarts grounds in mounds. It looked as though it had very recently snowed, for the ground was untouched and looked eerily beautiful in the pale moonlight. Raspy breaths were coming from both of them as they trudged through the knee deep snow; Ginny tried to concentrate on the cloud that her breathing was making, reappearing every so often. Hogsmeade, and the Hogwarts gates, came into view, much too soon in one of their opinions, and in an eternity in the others. Before Ginny knew it, the doorsteps of the Three Broomsticks appeared, and the warm of the inn was beckoning her come.
"Well, erm, Harry it was nice walking with you, I guess I'll be seeing you around sometime." She stuck out her hand in a nervous sort of goodbye. Harry ignored the hand. Kissing her cheek the way old friends often do, Harry said his goodbyes, not in the least bit nervously.
"Good night Gin." He said and then started back towards the looming castle. He left a very stunned Weasley, indeed, on that doorstep, but not giving so much as a backwards glance he didn't know it.
A grinning Professor made his way through the snow, not caring that his galoshes were quickly filling with snow. It surely wasn't a passionate romance, nor even a sweet and nervous engagement, all it was was friends and a kiss on the cheek, but the now blushing man couldn't have asked for more at that moment in time.
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All too soon, the week was over and Ginny Weasley was saying her goodbyes to Hogwarts, Hogsmeade and a certain raven-haired teacher. Promising to come and visit again, Ginny left Harry on very friendly terms, but nothing more then that. Ginny honestly wondered why Harry had been giving her sly looks every time she mentioned she'd see him soon. She put it out of her mind, however, as she took the train home. Floo powder would have saved time, as would apparating, but Ginny couldn't bring a trunk with her while apparating, so check one there, and floo powder was not the girls choice way of traveling. The Hogwarts express chugged on through the soft countryside giving peace and rest to the few people actually aboard. Though the ride was some 8 hours, Ginny found it was over all too soon. Lugging her trunk behind her, Ginny looked around expectantly for her parents, but saw Charlie instead. Dropping her things, she went and scooped her older brother into a tight embrace.
"Home for Christmas eh Charlie?" She gave him a warm smile.
"Would rather be home then anywhere else," he said while playfully tousling her hair.
"Hey!" she yelped in mock anger, then set about smoothing her hair.
"I'll go get your things," Charlie volunteered. Ginny waited for her brother to retrieve the fallen trunk and carpetbag and then the two began the journey into the muggle world. Not having a clue as to how they would be getting home (floo powder and apparating out of the question,) Ginny looked around wildly trying to find out what the secret may be. Following her older brother, Ginny saw them headed towards an old fashioned black car. Ginny wondered if it was Charlie's. As if knowing what she was wondering, a mysterious figure stepped out of the driver side exit and popped open the trunk. Ginny tweaked her eyes and stopped dead on, causing a muggle behind her to abruptly bump into her.
"Harry?" Ginny gasped. Confused and wondering if this were some sort of joke, Ginny passed Charlie and promptly made her way to the car.
"Harry what in Gods name are you doing here?" She asked, anger slightly rising in her voice.
"Calm down Gin. Your mum owled me and invited me for Christmas. Seeing as how I would be completely devoid of all good company this upcoming week," he flashed her one of his famous grins here, "I readily accepted. I do hope you don't mind." He said all of this in a tone that told her he didn't care if she did indeed mind because he was coming anyways.
"Oh! No no, I don't mind, it's just I didn't expect to see you this soon," Ginny tried to cover for her blunt speech earlier.
"You seem a bit enthusiastic there Gin to be having Harry over, eh?" Charlie had snuck into the conversation and couldn't help but tease.
"Nonsense," said Ginny, "I was just shocked is all. Now hurry up you two and we'll be on our way," she retorted snappishly. The boys exchanged amused looks and then scrambled to put the trunk away, not caring to test a Weasley woman's temper.
The drive to the burrow only lasted a little more then an hour, seeing as there was relatively no traffic. Snow had begun to fall during the second half hour and by the time the trio reached the burrow; a snowstorm was heavy in the makings. Hopping out of the car as soon as it had reached a stop, Ginny made her way hurriedly inside leaving the work for the boys. As soon as she'd slammed the door her mother came bustling out of the kitchen to sweep her into a warm hug. Though Ginny had only been gone for 8 days, she had missed her mum with whom she had formed a special bond with, seeing as she was the only child who still lived at home. Minutes later the boys, looking very frumpy indeed, (for they had just dragged a much too heavy trunk through the midst of a storm) trudged into the kitchen and began the process of taking off their damp over wear. Before either of the boys could complain about the door they had found so conveniently closed in their faces, Ginny hurried upstairs, trunk in tow.
Upon her return downstairs, Ginny found Charlie, Harry and her mum all enjoying a warm cup of tea and cheery conversation. Ginny had found that her visit to her past had brought back memories that were both funny, happy and depressing all at once. Not quite in the mood for a hearty chat she decided to take her tea into the lonesome sitting room. Grabbing the comfiest old chair she could find, Ginny stared out into the storm. Somehow the storm reflected her mood, turmoil and indecision. The snow would drift this way, and then get howled back into line, and then yet again get shifted another way. Before she knew it, a heavy sigh had escaped from somewhere inside the small woman. Ginny liked it when things were pleasant between Harry and her, but there was still pain there. At least there was no bickering as there had been over the summer. If they were friends now, Ginny wondered why she felt like this.
"Oh God no." The thought hit her just as the man of the hour himself entered the room bearing an equally warm cup of tea. He wore a silly grin like the one she used to, and still did, love so much. She returned his smile with a half grin half grimace combination that did not do much to flatter her face.
"What's wrong Gin? I haven't seen you look so sour since, well, since a long time at least." How was she supposed to answer this? 'Oy Harry, I've just discovered I'm still in love with you, you prat! But only I can't tell you this because well, because of what you did to me last time I surrendered my heart.' That's what came up in her head, but she knew that was no way to answer. In a panic, she just shrugged her head and said,
"Oh bah, tis nothing, just the weather I suppose," and then sipped her tea hurriedly, causing her tongue to be burnt.
"The weather eh? Hmm. if I recall correctly, you told me once that storms of any kind were your favorite type of weather," he looked at her triumphantly.
"Well Harry, that just goes to show how much people can change over the years," putting her tea down she left the room in a hurry not keen on being further interrogated. Shaking his head in disbelief, Harry decided to leave it at that, besides, in the way she took off, it seemed to him that she would rather not continue that conversation.
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The weekend drew to a close and the week of holidays sprang open in such a hurry that Ginny swore someone was tampering with the clocks. On Christmas Eve Mrs. Weasley had planned a wonderful clan filled gala. The whole lot of Weasley's were to be there along with their significant others. Around noon that day, Hermione, Ron and their little daughter Lily showed up via floo powder. The riot that was Ron greeted Harry in such a huge display of brotherly affection that Mrs. Weasley wondered if Ron had eaten something funny. Of course other then the fact that Ronald was disappointed about Harry's drop from the Cannons, the two got on splendidly. A bit later in the afternoon, Fred, George, and their wives Angelina and Alicia showed up with Weasley children galore in tow. Only minutes after the two pranksters and family had shown up, Bill, who arrived dateless, and Charlie with his wife Cecil arrived causing the kitchen to become mayhem city once again. Everyone who valued his or her head was glad to leave the kitchen in peace to Mrs. Weasley Sr. who was trying to prepare supper.
After greetings were exchanged, various bouts of boys, girls, men and women made their ways upstairs to get settled. Trying to avoid the sudden rush, Ginny hid in her doorway until a certain mob had passed. Once the coast was clear, Ginny rushed out trying to get back down before any little pairs of feet, or big pairs for that matter, could trip her up. Unfortunately for her, it didn't take a mob to get her tripped up. Stumbling entirely too fast down the stairs, Ginny gracefully tripped on the third to last stair. Fortunately for her, her once upon a time hero was there to save the day. Yes you guessed it, Harry. Upon seeing his bright maiden falling, he rushed to her aid catching her right before she tumbled through the doorway.
"Ow, oh Harry, thanks," she said while trying to straighten up, which was near impossible seeing as how Harry still had his arms grasped tightly around her. Looking up with a sly grin, Harry spotted a rather lumpy clump of a mysterious Christmas plant.
"Looks as though we've landed under the mistletoe Gin," he said while still holding her.
Shrugging off his grip, Ginny simply said, "Silly muggle tradition really," and then bounded away. With a sigh and a slight chuckle Harry followed her into the kitchen.
On her way to the kitchen, the conversation inside Ginny's head went something like this.
'Oh Virginia Weasley, who are you kidding? You wanted to kiss him as much as he wanted to kiss you.'
'Who said he wanted to kiss me?'
'Come now Ginny, you were his fiancé, you know exactly when he wants to kiss you and what look he gets in his eyes when he wants you. That look was no ordinary look.'
'His eyes. oh I know that look alright.'
'So why'd you stop him you silly git?'
'Oh shut it.'
'Why should I? Now tell me, why'd you stop him.'
'Because I'm not going to let myself get dragged into that again.'
'Too late darling, you're already in way too deep. You love him still. You never stopped loving him. Just admit it.'
'What? Love him. Well maybe. but still. I can control my emotions! I'm not completely helpless.'
'When it comes to Harry you sure are.'
'No I'll be fine.'
'Ginny and Harry sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G.'
'Stop that!' 'Fine, suit yourself.'
Ginny mentally slapped herself and then ducked into the warmth of the kitchen, with Harry close at her heel.
That night's festivities were a jolly occasion as were the next morning's and evening's; all too soon, the fun was over and only one night was left until the clan emptied ship again. Not wanting to put a damper on anyone else's spirits, Ginny decided she'd go through with what she was planning on doing that night after everyone had gone to bed. She had been in inner turmoil about her decision but she decided it was the only way to show Harry that things could never be the same again between them. All too soon, midnight came and the last of the adults headed upstairs. Harry, who had seen Ginny lingering behind, decided to stay back also. Something was obviously tormenting Ginny. Her hands were clenched and her face was screwed up in concentration. When she looked like that Harry had always had the urge to sweep her up in his arms and kiss her cares away. Tonight was no exception.
Ginny didn't like what she was about to do, as it was bound to hurt Harry, who she had grown close to in friendship over the last two weeks, but she had to go through with it; for his sake and hers. Glad to see he had taken a hint to stay behind, Ginny paced the floor desperately, wishing there was someway around it. Harry approached her, she could see from the corner of her eye, with a genuine look of worry on his face.
"Gin," he said, sounding upset and restrained, "what's the matter? And don't give me any rubbish about nothing, I can tell you're upset about something." His hand had latched on to her arm as he said this. Brushing him gently away, Ginny screwed up her courage once again, and began the hardest words she would ever say to him.
"Harry, I have something that belongs to you, I think it's time you had it back," a look of complete sadness came over her face as she said this.
"What? What do you mean Ginny?" He looked confused and suspicious as he said this.
"Here," she pressed something hard, smooth and cold into his hand.
"What?" He looked down into his palm and realization dawned on him. "Ginny, what? No this, this was a gift. I, I can't take this back," he tried to give the object back, but Ginny refused to unclench her fists.
"I'm sorry Harry," she said while tears welled up into her soft blue eyes.
"Gin." tears were welling in his own eyes as he fingered the small silver and diamond-encrusted ring. "Why are you doing this?" He brushed a few tears away mechanically.
"I'm sorry Harry," she repeated, and then rushed out of the room, sobs now wracking her tiny body.
Harry sat there in silence for more then an hour, not bothering to care about the tears that now flowed freely. He knew what this had symbolized, but until that moment he hadn't wanted to give up hope. Bringing his face down into his hands, Harry let grief pour through him as he thought, once again, about how he had thrown away everything that one summer's day.
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Neni Potter, Satoriste, Evo422, catcher of dreams, starrynight394, Demosthenes42, a hopeful writer, Thank you guys so much for all your nice comments. Keep checking back, I will update twice a week I think. I have the story all plotted, it just takes awhile to get it from writing into the comp. it's sort of long. so thanks once again (I'm surprised I got any reviews) and remember to keep checking for updates.
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Harry had adjusted to his new life as a teacher at Hogwarts quite easily. A few days after Harry had written his old friend Professor Dumbledore, an owl had been sent back with an offer for the position of defense against dark arts post. Being quite glad at Dumbledore's generosity, Harry had readily accepted the offer. One thing was for sure, he was glad to be going back to the one place he had always loved. Though trying to remain on speaking terms with a certain Miss Ginny Weasley, Harry had decided not to tell her about the new job. Perhaps he did this because of her refusal to answer his owls, all of which contained notes of a renewed friendship and apologies, that he didn't tell her, but even more probable was that he thought Ginny Weasley had given up caring for him altogether. He didn't want to bring himself to believe it but being a pretty sensible man, Harry didn't rule out the idea altogether. Besides, he figured she would hear about it soon enough seeing as Ron or her mum would spill it sooner or later.
Autumn quickly faded into winter, and with it brought loneliness for Ginny Weasley. There was never a quiet moment at the Burrow, but the company was always the same. The chats with Hermione about her upcoming pregnancy, (her and Ron were expecting again), had begun to lose their novelty. Despite the warning in her heart, Ginny found herself thinking about being in the company of a certain raven-haired fellow once again. She had been getting on fine without him for the last three years, (well as good as one angry lovesick girl can be), but then he had to visit and make her remember how enchantingly green his eyes were.
Mrs. Weasley, thought getting on in years, was not at all daft. She saw the change that had come over her usually vivacious daughter, and she knew the exact cause of it. Having a perfectly brilliant idea come to mind one day and was almost shocked at the answer she received to her suggestion.
"Ginny dear, you haven't been looking too well, perhaps you're a bit under the weather?" Mrs. Weasley commented in fake concern, for she knew what was wrong.
"Oh no mum, I am quite fine I assure you. just been thinking about what Hogwarts would look like this time of the year." the younger Weasley didn't even seem to realize what had come out of her mouth, for she just sat there staring out of the window into the snow covered hills.
"I see," a smile formed on the old woman's lips as she said this. "Well, your father and I were just saying, the other day in fact, how much we'd love to send you down to Hogsmeade, seeing as you haven't been since when? Since you were in Hogwarts I'm sure. You know a bit of an early Christmas gift, you could go and see all the things you miss, make a week of it, you know? " She watched her daughters face brighten as she said this.
Trying to conceal her pleasure, Ginny answered her mother as casually as possible, "You know what mum, that sounds like a right nice idea. I'm just going to have to take you up on that offer." There was a definite change in attitude in the younger Weasley after the deal was made.
"Good, well then get packing dear," Mrs. Weasley made to leave the room.
"Wha, why so soon mum?" asked a confused Ginny.
"Oh, well your father took the liberty of booking you 8 days at the Three Broomsticks, starting tonight." Mrs. Weasley said this in a hurry and then left quickly before any protests could be made.
She didn't know exactly how it happened, though she replayed the moment over and over in her head, but suddenly Ginny Weasley found herself walking up those ever-familiar steps with a feeling of half dread and half excitement in the pit of her stomach. Having owled Prof. Dumbledore on the previous night of her arrival, Ginny had already gained permission to once again explore the many mysteries of Hogwarts. With some reluctance Ginny stepped through the towering oak doors into the great marble entry hall. The few added years since Ginny had been there had done nothing but add more magnificence to the already spectacular hall. She watched with longing as students milled about looking young and carefree. Judging from the sounds and smells wafting from the great hall, Ginny could tell it was lunchtime. Not taking a second glance at the entrance hall, Ginny made her way into the great hall and was blown away at the sight that greeted her. Whoever had done the Christmas décor had obviously put much effort into it. There was the perfect amount of garland hanging along the walls, trees in every corner, fairies that were enchanted to act as lights, and much much more. Ginny stood there for quite some time entranced by all that she saw. She was in such a state that she did not see a rather tall and green-eyed fellow come up behind her.
Harry was walking into lunch when he saw her. She was as enraptured as the first years, like she was taking in everything for the first time. He smiled as a giddy expression came over her face, making her more beautiful then ever, and promptly made his way towards her. Grabbing her arm softly, Harry nearly made Ginny jump out of her skin, and good- naturedly laughed at the expression on her face.
"What the hell - Harry! You nearly gave me a heart attack. Blimey!" Her cheeks were flushed and a glare had formed on her face as she said this. "Well that's a cute face," he said jokingly. "So why are you here Gin?" Harry was just as entranced by her face as Ginny had been by the hall.
"Certainly not to see you," she snapped back harshly. Regret clouded her mind a moment after as she saw a pained look flicker across Harry's face.
"Nice to see you too." He said as he shook his head and began to walk away.
"Harry." She began, but all he gave her was a backwards glance and distance. Ginny's arm still felt fuzzy from where he had touched her.
Pushing her conscience aside, and momentarily forgetting the rift she
had already formed between her and Harry, Ginny explored the castle and found it much unchanged and to her liking. While wondering down the corridors in an absentmindedly sort of way, Ginny suddenly found herself in front of the Defense Against The Dark Arts classroom. Sensing that no one was around she took a chance and opened the door. The coast was clear. Treading lightly, she entered the classroom and began to explore. Every window, nook, cranny, and desk held some different memory, many belonging to Ginny Weasley herself. The changes that Harry had bestowed on the room did not go unnoticed. While taking it all in, Ginny did not notice that she was not the only one in the room.
"Looking for something Miss Weasley?" asked a formal voice. The bright headed girl once again jumped at the sound of Harry's voice.
"Blimey Harry, that's twice today you've snuck up on me!" she said all this while studying his face. He didn't look angry, nor did he look pleased to see her again in such a short time, but she couldn't really blame him.
"Hmm. Well I'm sure you'll understand but I really have a lot of homework left to grade, so if you'll excuse me." He said all this while stepping aside making room for her to pass to the exit, but she didn't move.
"Look Harry," her anger rising slightly, "I'm sorry about earlier, I know I acted like the worlds biggest prat, and I'm sorry I was so bloody rude. I'm really sick of being angry at you, can't we just move on and forget about everything?" She asked meekly, almost in some reluctance.
"On one condition," his tone did not waver.
"Yes?" gulp.
"Friends again?" It was more a statement then a question, but a wild grin spread over his face as he said it, so she knew he wasn't mad anymore.
"Al-alright, friends," she said, hoping she wouldn't come to regret her decision. However, she was quite relieved that she didn't have to put up a false front of anger around him anymore.
"Good," Harry said nodding his head in agreement before barraging her with all sorts of questions like; where are you staying, how long, why, etc etc. Ginny went on to say that her mum and dad had arranged all this, she told about Hogsmeade and the Three Broomsticks and how she was leaving just before Christmas. Harry kept an alert audience and asked questions in all the right places without seeming too nosy, though it couldn't help to be noted, he looked very pleased indeed to hear all of this.
"Well Harry, it is getting rather late and I really should be getting back to the inn before it gets entirely too dark," she shifted nervously in the darkening classroom.
"I'll walk you back," he said while fastening his cloak.
"Oh that really won't be necessary," Ginny may have accepted his offer for being friends, but having not had a decent conversation with him in over 3 years, she certainly didn't want to find herself in the situation of a moonlit stroll with him.
"I insist," his tone was final. Sighing in defeat, Ginny left the classroom followed closely by Harry.
The two walked on in silence, which Ginny, to say the least, was very thankful for. Snow covered the Hogwarts grounds in mounds. It looked as though it had very recently snowed, for the ground was untouched and looked eerily beautiful in the pale moonlight. Raspy breaths were coming from both of them as they trudged through the knee deep snow; Ginny tried to concentrate on the cloud that her breathing was making, reappearing every so often. Hogsmeade, and the Hogwarts gates, came into view, much too soon in one of their opinions, and in an eternity in the others. Before Ginny knew it, the doorsteps of the Three Broomsticks appeared, and the warm of the inn was beckoning her come.
"Well, erm, Harry it was nice walking with you, I guess I'll be seeing you around sometime." She stuck out her hand in a nervous sort of goodbye. Harry ignored the hand. Kissing her cheek the way old friends often do, Harry said his goodbyes, not in the least bit nervously.
"Good night Gin." He said and then started back towards the looming castle. He left a very stunned Weasley, indeed, on that doorstep, but not giving so much as a backwards glance he didn't know it.
A grinning Professor made his way through the snow, not caring that his galoshes were quickly filling with snow. It surely wasn't a passionate romance, nor even a sweet and nervous engagement, all it was was friends and a kiss on the cheek, but the now blushing man couldn't have asked for more at that moment in time.
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All too soon, the week was over and Ginny Weasley was saying her goodbyes to Hogwarts, Hogsmeade and a certain raven-haired teacher. Promising to come and visit again, Ginny left Harry on very friendly terms, but nothing more then that. Ginny honestly wondered why Harry had been giving her sly looks every time she mentioned she'd see him soon. She put it out of her mind, however, as she took the train home. Floo powder would have saved time, as would apparating, but Ginny couldn't bring a trunk with her while apparating, so check one there, and floo powder was not the girls choice way of traveling. The Hogwarts express chugged on through the soft countryside giving peace and rest to the few people actually aboard. Though the ride was some 8 hours, Ginny found it was over all too soon. Lugging her trunk behind her, Ginny looked around expectantly for her parents, but saw Charlie instead. Dropping her things, she went and scooped her older brother into a tight embrace.
"Home for Christmas eh Charlie?" She gave him a warm smile.
"Would rather be home then anywhere else," he said while playfully tousling her hair.
"Hey!" she yelped in mock anger, then set about smoothing her hair.
"I'll go get your things," Charlie volunteered. Ginny waited for her brother to retrieve the fallen trunk and carpetbag and then the two began the journey into the muggle world. Not having a clue as to how they would be getting home (floo powder and apparating out of the question,) Ginny looked around wildly trying to find out what the secret may be. Following her older brother, Ginny saw them headed towards an old fashioned black car. Ginny wondered if it was Charlie's. As if knowing what she was wondering, a mysterious figure stepped out of the driver side exit and popped open the trunk. Ginny tweaked her eyes and stopped dead on, causing a muggle behind her to abruptly bump into her.
"Harry?" Ginny gasped. Confused and wondering if this were some sort of joke, Ginny passed Charlie and promptly made her way to the car.
"Harry what in Gods name are you doing here?" She asked, anger slightly rising in her voice.
"Calm down Gin. Your mum owled me and invited me for Christmas. Seeing as how I would be completely devoid of all good company this upcoming week," he flashed her one of his famous grins here, "I readily accepted. I do hope you don't mind." He said all of this in a tone that told her he didn't care if she did indeed mind because he was coming anyways.
"Oh! No no, I don't mind, it's just I didn't expect to see you this soon," Ginny tried to cover for her blunt speech earlier.
"You seem a bit enthusiastic there Gin to be having Harry over, eh?" Charlie had snuck into the conversation and couldn't help but tease.
"Nonsense," said Ginny, "I was just shocked is all. Now hurry up you two and we'll be on our way," she retorted snappishly. The boys exchanged amused looks and then scrambled to put the trunk away, not caring to test a Weasley woman's temper.
The drive to the burrow only lasted a little more then an hour, seeing as there was relatively no traffic. Snow had begun to fall during the second half hour and by the time the trio reached the burrow; a snowstorm was heavy in the makings. Hopping out of the car as soon as it had reached a stop, Ginny made her way hurriedly inside leaving the work for the boys. As soon as she'd slammed the door her mother came bustling out of the kitchen to sweep her into a warm hug. Though Ginny had only been gone for 8 days, she had missed her mum with whom she had formed a special bond with, seeing as she was the only child who still lived at home. Minutes later the boys, looking very frumpy indeed, (for they had just dragged a much too heavy trunk through the midst of a storm) trudged into the kitchen and began the process of taking off their damp over wear. Before either of the boys could complain about the door they had found so conveniently closed in their faces, Ginny hurried upstairs, trunk in tow.
Upon her return downstairs, Ginny found Charlie, Harry and her mum all enjoying a warm cup of tea and cheery conversation. Ginny had found that her visit to her past had brought back memories that were both funny, happy and depressing all at once. Not quite in the mood for a hearty chat she decided to take her tea into the lonesome sitting room. Grabbing the comfiest old chair she could find, Ginny stared out into the storm. Somehow the storm reflected her mood, turmoil and indecision. The snow would drift this way, and then get howled back into line, and then yet again get shifted another way. Before she knew it, a heavy sigh had escaped from somewhere inside the small woman. Ginny liked it when things were pleasant between Harry and her, but there was still pain there. At least there was no bickering as there had been over the summer. If they were friends now, Ginny wondered why she felt like this.
"Oh God no." The thought hit her just as the man of the hour himself entered the room bearing an equally warm cup of tea. He wore a silly grin like the one she used to, and still did, love so much. She returned his smile with a half grin half grimace combination that did not do much to flatter her face.
"What's wrong Gin? I haven't seen you look so sour since, well, since a long time at least." How was she supposed to answer this? 'Oy Harry, I've just discovered I'm still in love with you, you prat! But only I can't tell you this because well, because of what you did to me last time I surrendered my heart.' That's what came up in her head, but she knew that was no way to answer. In a panic, she just shrugged her head and said,
"Oh bah, tis nothing, just the weather I suppose," and then sipped her tea hurriedly, causing her tongue to be burnt.
"The weather eh? Hmm. if I recall correctly, you told me once that storms of any kind were your favorite type of weather," he looked at her triumphantly.
"Well Harry, that just goes to show how much people can change over the years," putting her tea down she left the room in a hurry not keen on being further interrogated. Shaking his head in disbelief, Harry decided to leave it at that, besides, in the way she took off, it seemed to him that she would rather not continue that conversation.
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The weekend drew to a close and the week of holidays sprang open in such a hurry that Ginny swore someone was tampering with the clocks. On Christmas Eve Mrs. Weasley had planned a wonderful clan filled gala. The whole lot of Weasley's were to be there along with their significant others. Around noon that day, Hermione, Ron and their little daughter Lily showed up via floo powder. The riot that was Ron greeted Harry in such a huge display of brotherly affection that Mrs. Weasley wondered if Ron had eaten something funny. Of course other then the fact that Ronald was disappointed about Harry's drop from the Cannons, the two got on splendidly. A bit later in the afternoon, Fred, George, and their wives Angelina and Alicia showed up with Weasley children galore in tow. Only minutes after the two pranksters and family had shown up, Bill, who arrived dateless, and Charlie with his wife Cecil arrived causing the kitchen to become mayhem city once again. Everyone who valued his or her head was glad to leave the kitchen in peace to Mrs. Weasley Sr. who was trying to prepare supper.
After greetings were exchanged, various bouts of boys, girls, men and women made their ways upstairs to get settled. Trying to avoid the sudden rush, Ginny hid in her doorway until a certain mob had passed. Once the coast was clear, Ginny rushed out trying to get back down before any little pairs of feet, or big pairs for that matter, could trip her up. Unfortunately for her, it didn't take a mob to get her tripped up. Stumbling entirely too fast down the stairs, Ginny gracefully tripped on the third to last stair. Fortunately for her, her once upon a time hero was there to save the day. Yes you guessed it, Harry. Upon seeing his bright maiden falling, he rushed to her aid catching her right before she tumbled through the doorway.
"Ow, oh Harry, thanks," she said while trying to straighten up, which was near impossible seeing as how Harry still had his arms grasped tightly around her. Looking up with a sly grin, Harry spotted a rather lumpy clump of a mysterious Christmas plant.
"Looks as though we've landed under the mistletoe Gin," he said while still holding her.
Shrugging off his grip, Ginny simply said, "Silly muggle tradition really," and then bounded away. With a sigh and a slight chuckle Harry followed her into the kitchen.
On her way to the kitchen, the conversation inside Ginny's head went something like this.
'Oh Virginia Weasley, who are you kidding? You wanted to kiss him as much as he wanted to kiss you.'
'Who said he wanted to kiss me?'
'Come now Ginny, you were his fiancé, you know exactly when he wants to kiss you and what look he gets in his eyes when he wants you. That look was no ordinary look.'
'His eyes. oh I know that look alright.'
'So why'd you stop him you silly git?'
'Oh shut it.'
'Why should I? Now tell me, why'd you stop him.'
'Because I'm not going to let myself get dragged into that again.'
'Too late darling, you're already in way too deep. You love him still. You never stopped loving him. Just admit it.'
'What? Love him. Well maybe. but still. I can control my emotions! I'm not completely helpless.'
'When it comes to Harry you sure are.'
'No I'll be fine.'
'Ginny and Harry sitting in a tree. K-I-S-S-I-N-G.'
'Stop that!' 'Fine, suit yourself.'
Ginny mentally slapped herself and then ducked into the warmth of the kitchen, with Harry close at her heel.
That night's festivities were a jolly occasion as were the next morning's and evening's; all too soon, the fun was over and only one night was left until the clan emptied ship again. Not wanting to put a damper on anyone else's spirits, Ginny decided she'd go through with what she was planning on doing that night after everyone had gone to bed. She had been in inner turmoil about her decision but she decided it was the only way to show Harry that things could never be the same again between them. All too soon, midnight came and the last of the adults headed upstairs. Harry, who had seen Ginny lingering behind, decided to stay back also. Something was obviously tormenting Ginny. Her hands were clenched and her face was screwed up in concentration. When she looked like that Harry had always had the urge to sweep her up in his arms and kiss her cares away. Tonight was no exception.
Ginny didn't like what she was about to do, as it was bound to hurt Harry, who she had grown close to in friendship over the last two weeks, but she had to go through with it; for his sake and hers. Glad to see he had taken a hint to stay behind, Ginny paced the floor desperately, wishing there was someway around it. Harry approached her, she could see from the corner of her eye, with a genuine look of worry on his face.
"Gin," he said, sounding upset and restrained, "what's the matter? And don't give me any rubbish about nothing, I can tell you're upset about something." His hand had latched on to her arm as he said this. Brushing him gently away, Ginny screwed up her courage once again, and began the hardest words she would ever say to him.
"Harry, I have something that belongs to you, I think it's time you had it back," a look of complete sadness came over her face as she said this.
"What? What do you mean Ginny?" He looked confused and suspicious as he said this.
"Here," she pressed something hard, smooth and cold into his hand.
"What?" He looked down into his palm and realization dawned on him. "Ginny, what? No this, this was a gift. I, I can't take this back," he tried to give the object back, but Ginny refused to unclench her fists.
"I'm sorry Harry," she said while tears welled up into her soft blue eyes.
"Gin." tears were welling in his own eyes as he fingered the small silver and diamond-encrusted ring. "Why are you doing this?" He brushed a few tears away mechanically.
"I'm sorry Harry," she repeated, and then rushed out of the room, sobs now wracking her tiny body.
Harry sat there in silence for more then an hour, not bothering to care about the tears that now flowed freely. He knew what this had symbolized, but until that moment he hadn't wanted to give up hope. Bringing his face down into his hands, Harry let grief pour through him as he thought, once again, about how he had thrown away everything that one summer's day.
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