Chapter 11

Ginny watched as Harry left the dance floor and began talking with wizards she did not know. She turned her attention back to Neville who was now dancing with Julia.

To be honest, the real reason Ginny went over to Harry earlier was to ask him to dance in an attempt to be alone and tell him the truth. She hadn't had enough time before they left the Burrow and thought that having an excuse like dancing might make it easier for her.

Ginny excused herself and made her way back to her table and sat sown. Hermione was right of course. It was better to get it out in the open. The problem was trying to be alone long enough with Harry to bring it up. Ginny looked around the room. 'Where has Harry gone?' she thought.

Ginny got up, deciding she needed some air, and walked through one of the doorways onto the balcony. She stood there deep in thought, looking out into the beautiful winter night. She never heard the footsteps until they stopped right behind her. Curious to know who was standing so close, Ginny turned around and was caught off guard to see Harry standing there. He had a little smile on his face.

"Do you mind a bit of company?" Harry asked her. "I could use some fresh air and have a conversation with someone I actually know."

Harry stepped up beside Ginny and leaned against the railing to look out at the scenery. They stood there in silence for a few minutes then both at once they spoke.

"Harry I need..."

"Did I do some..."

They both stopped and started to laugh.

"You go first." Harry said looking straight at Ginny, a hint of a smile still on his face.

"No really you start." Ginny responded.

Harry turned his face back toward the sky then after contemplating something he looked Ginny in the eyes. Ginny took a step back when she saw the look in his eyes. He seemed sad but determined. The look however was nothing compared to what he said next.

"Ginny, did I do something to upset you in any way? I could be making something out of nothing but I get this strong feeling that you're avoiding me for some reason. I guess it started that day in the Three Broomsticks." He stopped talking and placed his hands on her shoulders. "Am I just imagining it or did I upset you? Please Ginny tell me so that I can fix it."

Harry looked so sincere and worried that Ginny almost said everything she's ever wanted to say since she was eleven. But for some reason she couldn't utter a word, she just held back. Instead of doing what she had promised herself, she released Harry's hold of her and ran from the balcony through the hall and out of the building.

Harry was so stunned by her sudden disappearance that he reacted too slowly to chase after her and he became surrounded by a new group of witches and wizards.