Chapter 16 A railed trip pt1

30th August 1993, Ginny's room, The Leaky Cauldron, London

Ginny has barely slept last night. She was afraid that if she fell asleep this was just a dream. When her mother comes to wake her up she is surprised Ginny is awake but she is almost at how dead tired Ginny looks.

Mrs. Weasley asks "dear, did you get those nightmares again?"

Ginny yawns and says "no mom, but I was afraid if I fell asleep everything since we came back from Egypt was a dream, a very nice dream."

Mrs. Weasley says "but you need to sleep, dear. Why don't you try to get some sleep and I will wake you up for lunch. I think we can go get the last supplies this afternoon as we also get your new robes. Madam Malkin said she would have them done this afternoon."

"Maybe Hermione or Harry would help you with your homework. I am sure Hermione can help you with your first year. I wouldn't be surprised if Hermione can summarise the most important parts of the classes even those you don't or barely remember so you would be caught up to speed and be on the same level if not better prepared than the other second years."

"Don't forget if you need help with Transfiguration or different classes just tell Professor McGonagall and she will make sure you can get extra tutoring or asks her best student to help you. I am sure that Professor McGonagall will not have a Slytherin tutor you as she knows how bad the rivalry is especially because of Harry although it is not his fault naturally."

Ginny smiles. She finds Harry's thoughts about her much more important, but she attacked Hermione although she didn't want to. She knows she is the reason that Tom attacked Hermione as she wanted to be in Hermione's position and always be around Harry. She realized this summer that if she wants to be around Harry she needs to be herself and try to be Harry's friend like Hermione. She knows she is a year below Harry and Hermione is Harry's best friend no matter how much Ron claims he is.

Ginny isn't blind and knows it is Hermione especially as she remembers when Tom didn't control her that Harry was with Hermione in the hospital wing even though she was petrified. Ginny hopes is something happens to her he will also be there for her but she knows she needs to be friends first and hopefully soon will be good friends. Ginny knows it will take years to become near the same level as Hermione if she will ever comes close she has no illusion she will ever reach Hermione or even surpass Hermione's friendship with Harry.

She knows that good friends can still become a couple just of much as being best friends. Ginny doesn't want to think like that but also knows that best friends move more often than not to see or try to be in a relationship until after Hogwarts as they are afraid to damage their relationship. One of the two can't suppress their feelings anymore when that happens. Ginny hopes that she can capture Harry's heart. She hopes she can tell Hermione to share Harry as Harry can have more wives, but she needs to be better friends with Harry and, for her to share Harry, become better friends with Hermione if possible good friends.

30th August 1993, The Leaky Cauldron, London

Ginny and Mrs. Weasley go downstairs. They see Harry and Mr. Weasley talking about probably something muggle. She sits down next to Hermione who looks amused at Harry and Mr. Weasley. Hermione greets Ginny happily. Harry seems to hear Hermione as he also greets her before continuing to talk with her father.

Percy was also at the table but still had his nose in a book. Barely a minute later the twins come down with a smile on their faces. Ginny wonders Ron ran down the stairs with his hair and clothes in Slytherin colour like he is proud to be with a Slytherin tie and everything. The amount of red on Ron's face goes it a wonder his head didn't explode.

Fred says "you are right oh brother of mine."

George says "I could say the same my slightly less handsome brother."

They both start laughing. Mrs. Weasley however was not pleased. Hermione and Ginny tried to not laugh, tried being the keyword as they hold on for barely 10 seconds before they laugh. The laugh draws Harry and Mr. Weasley's attention. Harry looks surprised before he laughs although not as hard as Hermione and Ginny. Mr. Weasley with a small smile shakes his head. Mrs. Weasley scolds him and after that, Mr. Weasley dispels Fred and George's prank. As soon as all the Slytherin is gone and Ron sees the food he forgets all about the prank and starts stuffing his face.

Hermione and Ginny try to not look at Ron as that makes them nauseous unfortunately for them he sits right in front of Hermione who sits between Harry and Ginny. Hermione and Ginny will always see Ron unless they completely turn around but they couldn't do that. They try to talk and look at each other as that was the only they could do without completely turning around.

Surprising for both and Hermione doing everything to not let the topic fall on the chamber they start talking about school and the summer especially after Ginny tells Hermione she has a nice tan and wishes she could but she would probably get sunburned even with sunscreen way before she gets a nice tan like Hermione. Hermione tries to make her feel that she needed a lot of sunscreens as she just like Ginny has freckles. Ginny does seem to feel better.

Hermione, however, knows she lied as she did need sunscreen but she doesn't have such light skin as Ginny as that is the reason Ginny will sunburn quite easily. She knows Ginny will need to apply sunscreen multiple times a day to even get a small tan that will be noticeable because of her light skin while she only needed it once and only occasionally twice if the sun was shining strongly which happens a lot more in France than England especially southern France where she stayed with her parents.

When everybody finally had breakfast as everyone needed to wait on Ron who ate even more than Harry and Harry ate a lot. Ginny moved to the other side of the table as then she would at least not have to look at Ron who sits two chairs to her side.

Harry asks "Ginny, I have a present for you upstairs. I will get it alright?"

Ginny nods. She is very surprised and knows she will cherish it forever no matter what it is.

After a few minutes, Harry returns with a box. She wonders what it is especially as the box isn't wrapped. Harry's return draws the attention of everyone at the table although Ron seems to look around if there is any food left.

Mr. Weasley has a big smile on his face. Mrs. Weasley still looks at Athena with fear. Harry left her and Hedwig here when he went upstairs to get Ginny's present. Athena just lies down beside Hedwig although she does stare at Scabbers who Ron has fed some food scraps. Athena doesn't trust the rat as the rat smells different, the rat smells almost human but also as a rat should. It confuses her, but she will not attack it as she knows her master wouldn't like it and that is also the reason Hedwig doesn't attack the rat thinks Athena.

Percy doesn't acknowledge Harry's return as he has barely acknowledged anyone during breakfast. The twins look at Athena and are whispering to each other trying to think of a way to have Harry lend them, Athena. Hermione can't suppress a smile seeing Harry coming down with a box in his hand. The box looks the same as he gave it to her.

Harry sits down across from Ginny where he sat before he went to get the box. He puts the box on the table. He says "Happy Birthday, Ginny."

Ginny grabs the box with shaking hands. Hermione's smile grew when she sees Ginny's hands shakenly opening the box. When she looks inside she squeals which draws everyone's attention except Percy's.

All the Weasleys are surprised even Percy. Ginny has never squealed before. Not even when she got the book about Harry Potter that she now know are just stories nothing like the real Harry Potter. She screamed in joy when she got the books. The Weasleys wonder why Ginny squealed in happiness as that was easy to understand.

Ginny put the box down and put her hand in the box. Her hands are almost shakenly uncontrollably. She sees the necklace. The necklace has a golden chain and a big garnet like the pendant.

She grabs the necklace and pulls it out of the box. The smile on her face is the biggest one her parents and brothers have seen since the day she left for Hogwarts for the first time. However, this smile is so much more and shows so much happiness especially since her parents don't know if they have ever seen her that happy.

Mr. Weasley knows Mrs. Weasley will immediately demand Ginny to give it back as it seems very expensive. He decides to not make that happen as it will devastate Ginny, his baby girl if not destroy her and it will be disrespectful to Harry. He isn't sure but Harry seems to be more confident and almost looks like he is the Heir of House Potter.

He tried to look at his hand to see the ring, but he knows it can be disillusioned and without his wand, he will not see it if Harry doesn't want to show it. He is not sure if he can make it appear if Harry doesn't want to as the ring has Potter magic and the Potters were a lot of things but weak isn't one of them. He is almost sure even with all his might he will not make the ring appear especially if Harry doesn't want the ring to be seen by anyone. Harry should wear the Heir ring as Arthur knows he will never be able to make the Lord's ring (of any House) appear if the Lord doesn't want it to.

Dumbledore asked him and his wife to not say anything and he agreed mostly as Molly agreed. Also, Dumbledore promised that when the time is right Harry will know and he will teach Harry what he is to know. Arthur does know that Dumbledore hasn't told Harry yet, especially with Sirius Black on the loose.

Arthur immediately says as he sees that Molly wants to object as just like her he doesn't like charity but he knows this isn't charity. He says "Ginny it looks beautiful. Why don't you put it on?"

Ginny nods and asks "Hermione could you help me?"

Ginny wants to ask Harry but she couldn't make herself. Hermione says "I would love to Ginny, but I think Harry is closer. Go on Harry."

Harry nods and is, what looks not more than a second, behind her while he sat across from her at the other side of the table. She can't suppress her blush when she grabs her long hair and makes sure Harry has can fasten it without her hair being in the way just like Hermione has done although Hermione kept her hair up and a little bit shorter while Ginny grabs her hair to the side of her face blocking most her face from her family.

The twins want to tease her but see Harry gives them a look that they shouldn't do it or at least not for now or face the consequences. They give a small smile and nod. Harry gives them a small smile back before he says "all done."

Harry walks back and Ginny put her hair back. Ginny's smile makes Harry very happy when she looks at him although he does notice the blush on her cheek it is not like last year and they will at least look at him normally instead of staring.

Hermione asks "Harry, where is the other present?"

Harry palms his head and says "I forgot to get it. I will be right back."

Hermione just smiles. When she looks at Ginny Hermione notices the look on Ginny's face. Gone was the smile and the need to talk to her Hermione could read in Ginny's eyes. Hermione whispers "we can talk later in private, Ginny."

Hermione hopes only Ginny heard her. She has good hope as the twins went back to whispering when Harry left the table for the other present. Mr. Weasley and Mrs. Weasley just look at each other. Percy still had his nose in his book and Ron looked bored as there was no food on the table. Even if there was he wouldn't have noticed her whispering to Ginny. Ginny smiles although Hermione does notice it doesn't even come close to the smile Ginny had when she saw the necklace and even more when Harry put it on.

It takes almost ten minutes before Harry comes back. He takes a seat and says "Ginny again Happy Birthday. I found this and hope you like it. I also hope you didn't have it yet."

Ginny can't wait and almost rip open the wrapping paper. She almost screams with happiness. It is the new book about the Holyhead Harpies. She wanted it so much but with the trip to Egypt, Ron's new wand and her own new robes including some other necessities that were put on hold when they didn't have the money before. She got some money like her brothers even Bill and Charlie although not as much as she and her other brothers. She had barely enough money for the book and she is saving money for next year when she can go to Hogsmeade and only takes a little bit this year for the trolley on the trip towards Harry and on the trip back during Yule, Easter or the end of the year.

Ginny says "thank you so much, Harry, I don't have the book but I wanted the book. It is the newest book on the Holyhead Harpies. How do you know I love them?"

Harry says "Ron, Fred and George mentioned it, especially when Ron talked about the Chudley Cannons and they were better than your team the Holyhead Harpies."

Harry mentioning Chudley Cannons draw Ron's attention to him. He asks "hey Ginny what do you have there?"

Ginny immediately draws the book to her and crosses her arms over it like it is her most prized possession although her most price possession is now around her neck and the book is the second by a large margin.

Ginny says "Harry gave me the new book about the Holyhead Harpies for my Birthday."

Harry says "Ginny that was for your Birthday last year. I have something else for your Birthday this year. Although I don't have it yet and I kind of need Hermione's help with it."

Ginny's face almost breaks from the smile she shoots Harry. Ron however does not. He is not happy Harry spends money on his little sister he thinks he should spend his money on him as he believes he is his best friend. He already finds it worse enough that Harry spends money on Hermione, but knowing that he also does on his little sister while Harry shouldn't even talk to her makes him mad.

Ron says "don't be stupid Ginny. Harry will never do that."

Ron wants to grab the book Ginny holds tightly. However, before he can grab it Athena sisses loudly and shows such an aggressive stance that even Ron notices it.

Harry put his hand under her head to make her calm and he says "Ron, I did. It was Ginny's Birthday and I like to be her friend as I should have been last year. She is your little sister, but she can be my friend not because she is your little sister. I heard what the twins said last year when they did mention she was acting weird but thought it was because of her awe in Hogwarts. If what the twins say is right how Ginny normally should be then I think we will get along great. As wanting to befriend her and acting like it will be normal I give her a present and as I didn't last year I did feel a bit guilty about that although we didn't know each other very well."

Ron says "you shouldn't give her a present, Harry. You need to be careful with your money."

Ron barely resists saying that he should use it on him instead.

Harry says "I am and buying a present for a friend, especially for her birthday is the least I can do."

Harry feels that he should do the same for Ginny as he does for Hermione, but he doesn't know he can make Tom do so and he is afraid Mr. Weasley or Mrs. Weasley will notice. He doesn't want to answer why he does this and only for Ginny. He feels about Ginny a bit like he does for Hermione. Hermione is much stronger but he clearly does feel Ginny should be the same and he needs to hold her close beside him or right behind him just like Hermione.

Hermione sees that this can turn ugly and says "come on let's go to Diagon Alley."

Harry nods and stands up. He says to the other Weasleys "we are ready to go to Diagon Alley."

Mr. Weasley says "we are too. Come on let's go."

Everyone stands up except Percy. Mr. Weasley needs to call his name four times before he looks up. Mr. Weasley tells them they will go to Diagon Alley. Percy just says "I already went yesterday. I got my supplies, I will stay here and study more."

Mr. Weasley likes Percy and would like to do well in school and for his NEWTs but he finds it too much for all the time Percy spends his nose in a book. He is happy that he only allowed one book when they were in Egypt or he would have missed it all. He decides to let Percy stay here as he wants.

Ginny says she first wants to put the book away and runs to her room before returning only a few minutes later.

30th August 1993, Diagon Alley

Just when they enter and the entry behind them closes Mrs. Weasley starts to tell them where and when they need to meet them. They will be free to go almost everywhere in Diagon Alley. They will meet back up for lunch.

Within a second the twins say they will go to Gambol and Japes Wizarding Joke Shop. Hermione says "come on let's go to Flourish and Blotts."

Ron says "no, not more books let's go to Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour or Sugarplum's Sweets Shop."

Hermione says "oh. I need first go to Scribbulus Writing Instruments for one new quill and some more parchment."

Harry says "I really like to go to Quality Quidditch Supplies. Right, Hermione?"

Harry hopes Hermione remembers that Ginny's present for her Birthday is there. Hermione looks at Harry and feels the need she needs to obey him. If he wants to go to Quality Quidditch Supplies they will and they will only go to Flourish and Blotts if Harry wants to.

It shocked her that going to Flourish and Blotts what she loves to do will only happen if Harry allows it. It is horrifying for Hermione at this intensity but at the same time, she feels a delightful feeling she hasn't felt before. She had small thoughts like that before the summer after she was cured but ever since she meet up with Harry this summer the thoughts are strong and it scares her. She knows she needs to talk to Professor McGonagall or Madam Pomfrey or both.

Hermione looks into Harry's eyes and she barely resists the urge to look away to the ground as that is what she is supposed to do. She sees the hope in Harry's beautiful green eyes which makes her mad as she thinks he wants to see her submissively lower her head and look at the ground. Suddenly she remembers why Harry would do that as Ginny's present in Quality Quidditch Supplies.

Hermione questioningly says "we should first go to Quality Quidditch Supplies?"

When Harry smiles and nods. Hermione feels happy she pleased Harry and make him smile. This time she isn't horrified and likes the feeling but still finds it weird which still makes her feel scared.

30th August 1993, Quality Quidditch Supplies, Diagon Alley

It didn't take long before they enter Quality Quidditch Supplies. Going to Quality Quidditch Supplies at least shut Ron up as Quidditch is the only thing that can take his mind off food. Well, food is always on his mind but Quidditch is at least as strong in his mind that it is the only two things to think about.

When they enter Ron is almost salivating looking at the new Firebolt. If Ron could get closer he would have slobber all over the Firebolt. Ginny just looks around, especially at the equipment for chasers.

When Hermione is sure Ron is preoccupied she gives Harry an elbow and says "I think you can better take Ginny to the rack. Ron is being jealous but is preoccupied with drooling over the Firebolt. Why is beyond me…."

Harry interrupts her and says "because you don't like flying on a broom Hermione. Anyway, I will get Ginny can you already walk to the rack at the back?"

Hermione is a bit mad for interrupting her but he is right. Hermione nods and walks to the back.

Harry walks to Ginny. When he gets her attention and asks "Ginny, can you follow me?"

Ginny nods and follows him to the back of the store. She gets nervous when she sees Hermione standing there with an indifferent face. The only thing that keeps her calm is Harry and when she looks good Hermione glares at Harry, not her. She doesn't know why but she gets the feeling she needs to protect Harry at any cost even if it will cost her life.

Harry says "Ginny, the last present for your Birthday is that you can choose one or two jerseys from the Holyhead Harpies or any of the other jerseys. I don't know what would fit you. That is why Hermione will help you if you need it. I will be back at the front of the store when you picked out which one you want even if it is the newest one and that hasn't been worn before."

Ginny wants to hug him but is afraid he doesn't want that. Harry plays her hand on her shoulder and she will die happy now. She knows the real Harry is much better than the story Harry. Also in the summer, she realized that the story of Harry was just that story and that the real Harry is so much better. She knows that she needs to talk to Hermione hoping she will help her become friends with Harry and admit that she is mostly passed being a fangirl and is very attracted to Harry, the real Harry.

She will only tell Hermione if she agrees to help her become friends with Harry as she has earned to know that. Also, she hopes she can become friends with Hermione and more importantly find her first-ever friend again. She has seen her last year but the damned diary prevented her from becoming friends with her again. The diary influenced her that he was her only friend and that her first friend actually didn't want to be her friend. She believed it but now she hopes that her first friend will want to be her friend again. She should have refused her mother to not go to her again after her friend's mother died. She should have been there for her as her best friend. Ginny hopes she would forgive her and hope that someday they will be friends again, hopefully, a good friend as she thinks they can never be best friends again, unfortunately.

Harry walks to the front and Ron is still staring at the Firebolt. Harry wouldn't mind getting a Firebolt but he can't forget that he has a perfectly good nimbus 2000 at Hogwarts. Just like last year, he will get it during the first week and he can then use a broom serving kit to make sure his nimbus will be in its peak condition.

It takes almost ten minutes when Hermione and Ginny to return. Harry sees that she has two jerseys and both are the newest ones. The home and away jersey.

He smiles and says "we can better pay for them."

Ginny asks "you don't mind if I like both?"

Harry says "no, of course not. If you want them both, you get them both."

Ginny says "ahh thank you so much, Harry. I know it will be quite expensive, next year sweets are just alright."

Harry says "we will see next year, Ginny. It is because of the bad memories and I really am sorry I didn't get you something last year. I should have at least done something when we were at Diagon Alley as was there for your Birthday but didn't get you anything. Also afterwards I didn't get you anything. I didn't really know you, but I am sure if you want we can get to know each other better and be friends."

Ginny says "I would love that Harry. I would love to know you better."

Ginny turns around at Hermione and says "with you to Hermione as I said."

Hermione just smiles and nods.

Harry, Ginny and Hermione walk to the counter to pay for both jerseys. Ron is oblivious to that fact. The clerk starts to hold them up to see the jerseys to see the team as the price differs between teams.

Harry sees the second one and asks "no offence Ginny but isn't that one way too big for you?"

Ginny manage to say without stammering "uh yes, but I would like to sleep in that one like it is a pyjama."

Harry says "oh, alright then" while he blushes as he remembers Nymfie doing the same with a large shirt.

Hermione notices the blush and wonders if he has seen another girl in a large shirt and if it is only a large shirt or if the girl wore at least underwear. Hermione can't think of any girl he would have seen like that so she wonders if Harry imagines Ginny or other attractive girls in the large shirt as pyjamas. She should slap his shoulder and jokingly call him a pervert. Secretly she hopes he also thinks of her in a large shirt. She does have two she could use as pyjamas if she doesn't wear a nightdress or her pyjama bottoms (both long and short ones) and a tight shirt.

Also, she is afraid to hit him even if she means it jokingly not hurting Harry much. She doesn't want to feel afraid and knows she shouldn't but she can't. A part deep inside her is afraid Harry will leave her and she knows without Harry she feels useless but also feels like she lost her purpose in life. She feels that she doesn't know what to do without Harry telling her and supporting her if she wants to do something.

Hermione doesn't remember them leaving so she wonders how they are already heading towards Flourish and Blotts without her remembering. She knows they are heading to Flourish and Blotts because of Ron's continued whining. She doesn't know why by following Harry barely a step behind him feels good. She tries to squash that feeling by walking passed him and focusing on Flourish and Blotts hoping it would get her mind off these feelings.

30th August 1993, Flourish and Blotts, Diagon Alley

As soon as they are inside Hermione drags Ginny to the bookcases. Harry heard Hermione say "come on Ginny. I saw some books you may like. My present is one of them."

Ginny drops her bag with the Quidditch Jerseys. Harry takes the bag and sees Ginny smile as she is dragged by her wrist to the bookcases by Hermione. Harry sees Ron staring out of the window as on the opposite side of Flourish Blotts a few doors down is Sugarplum's Sweets Shop.

Harry decides to look at some books about advanced charms, transfiguration and especially defence against the dark arts. Harry consider buying a book or two although Andi said he shouldn't. Harry thinks to pretend that he seeks spells to protect him from Sirius and to be honest, he likes some books he sees about defence. He has the money for them but decides to not buy them as he promised Andi. He doesn't want her to be mad at him for not listening.

Harry decides to just look through the book but not take it. He hears the door opening and sees a woman walk inside he recognizes but he has no idea from where. He sees her walk towards him. She doesn't say anything and just starts to look at the section he was looking at only a few feet away as it is a large section.

Harry mentally shrugs and walks to the table to wait for Hermione and Ginny while Ron is still preoccupied almost drooling probably thinking about the sweets Sugarplum's Sweets Shop sells. Harry decides how he is going to tell Hermione he is betrothed to Susan while he is only 13 and even worse he can have more wives. He is almost required to have more wives. He only agreed with Susan as he needs to continue his House and for his parents, that gave his life for him to probably also continue House Potter.

It takes almost half an hour before Ginny returns with a book and dissatisfied Hermione. Harry hears Hermione say "ah Ginny I am sure we can stay what longer or go on without me. I don't want many sweets anyway. I can also give you a bit of money to get some sweets for me."

Ginny shakes her head and says "no Hermione. We all go together. Ron doesn't want to be here, but he still is."

She looks at Ron and continues "see, he may not look for a book and stare outside but he is still here."

Hermione rolls her eyes. She wouldn't even know Ron if he wasn't Harry's friend. Most of the time especially between the time Harry spoke Parseltongue and she got petrified she wonders how Ron can even be Harry's friend or that Harry sees Ron as his friend. She seriously wonders if Ron really is.

Hermione walks to the counter to buy the book for Ginny. When they are done Harry hands the bag with the jerseys back to Ginny and Ginny put her book in the bag with the jerseys. She grabs it and when they walk to the door Ron is immediately beside Harry and says "finally let's go to Sugarplum's Sweets Shop."

30th August 1993, Leaky Cauldron

It is almost bedtime and Harry, Hermione and Ginny walk upstairs. Ron was sent upstairs by Mrs. Weasley earlier as he still wasn't done with his homework. Ginny let that slip when Hermione asked to see Ron's homework and he didn't want to.

When they reach Harry's bedroom they bid him goodnight. Harry did the same and says "Hermione, I guess you can better take Crookshanks. It seems he has scratched the door."

Hermione walks in and Crookshanks jump in her arms. She wants to be mad at Crookshanks for scratching the door but she just can't stay mad at him.

30th August 1993, Hermione's room, Leaky Cauldron

Barely a few seconds later Hermione and Ginny walk into Hermione's room. Hermione put Crookshanks down. He immediately went to the fireplace where a small fire was burning to give the room a nice temperature and not too hot as it is summer after all. Hermione is happy that since the Weasleys and mostly Ronald is here she just wears her normal clothes like pants and a loose shirt but not too lose as then if she bends you could see her breasts, bra and maybe even her nipples and only harry is allowed to see them when the time is right. Hermione doesn't worry about what Harry may like to wear as he knows she doesn't like to do so when Ron (and Percy) is near so her room isn't like a hurricane went through it with clothes everywhere like it was before the Weasleys came.

Hermione sits down on her bed as Ginny sits on the chair at the desk filled with books and parchment as it is Hermione's temporary room after all.

Hermione decides to start and asks "Ginny, what do you want to talk about? I mean I saw you wanted to but I don't know why you would, not that I don't like to talk to you. We never talked before but I think we can be good friends and have great talks, you are already much better than Ronald and a little bit better than Harry as you are like me a female. There are just something you can't talk with a boy about …. or a man like Harry."

Hermione surprised herself as she never have seen Harry as a man before. Sure she has seen him as a boy before but now he feels different, he feels like a man. It is not just his magic but also how good he looks in good clothes that fit him and how he acts half of the time. She is particularly aroused when Harry uses his brain.

Ginny says "I would like to see the necklace Harry gave you as something inside me said you also got one and your eyes look like you know how I feel when he give it to me. I also thought if he didn't give you one you would be jealous."

Hermione smiles and says "very observant Ginny. I think you may be right I would be a bit jealous but after your year I would probably be at least as happy as I would be jealous. And you are right, Harry did give me one too but it is a bit different than yours although yours will probably have the same protections as mine."

Ginny asks "what kind of protection?"

Hermione tells Ginny what Harry told her when he gave her the necklace and probably didn't tell her because it would remind her of the chamber and it was too fresh to talk about it. Hermione knew Harry made the right decision and when she mentioned the chamber Ginny cried. Hermione hugs her to make sure Ginny knows she is not mad as Harry and it took almost ten minutes before Ginny stopped crying but still sobbed a bit which took another ten minutes before Ginny stopped.

Hermione has noticed that the necklace has lightened up like it did with her but it seems Ginny didn't notice. Hermione wonders if Ginny's mind also feels better as the moment it lights up she stopped crying although she was still sobbing.

Ginny looks at Hermione and says "I want to be your friend and I hope you want to help me become Harry's friend."

Hermione says "I am sure we can be friends. We did have a nice talk in Flourish and Blotts….."

Ginny interrupts Hermione as she says "we didn't Hermione. You showed me the books I may like before you were going to read other books when I chose the book I wanted. You did say some things but we didn't really talk. I really like the book and want to thank you for it but this is certainly the most we spoke to each other."

Hermione looks ashamed and says "I guess you are right. I am sorry. It is just when I am in a book store I can only focus on the books."

Ginny says "unless it is Harry."

Hermione asks while trying to suppress her blush "w-what d-do you m-me-mean?"

Ginny can't suppress a happy smile at Hermione's stuttering. She doesn't have an evil happy smile but a mischievous happy smile, one that the twins have when they have pulled a prank or their prank will soon happen.

Ginny says "you didn't respond much until I mentioned Harry. You started to look around and I finally got your attention when you didn't see Harry around."

Hermione blushes as she remembers forgetting about her book when she heard the name, Harry. She was ashamed that only that got her attention and she looked to find Harry and make sure she hears what he would say like if he needed something or require her to do something she would probably do it without hesitation.

Hermione recovers from her blush within a minute and says "we can do what most friends do to know more about each other like family."

Ginny says "I guess so but you know much about my family. I mean I am the only daughter have six brothers and the only family we have left is old aunt Muriel. She is mom's aunt. Other family members, we have lost like Mom's brothers. They were killed when You-Know-Who was trying to take over. I don't know much more about my uncles as mom doesn't like to talk about it. Daddy has no family members left or at least not that he likes. I overheard mom and daddy that one of his family members died but he didn't care as they didn't like daddy marrying mom."

Hermione says "for me, it is not very different unless I am an only child. My grandparents from my mother's side are dead, they died when I was young. My grandparents from my father's side still live, they are called Maxwell and Kate Granger. My father and mother had no brothers or sisters. I like to have siblings but it would be a danger for the mom and the child. It is almost a wonder my mom and I survived when I was born."

Ginny says "I never knew that last part."

Hermione shrugs and says "well, I never told anyone. Not that I am ashamed or something but Harry is my first real friend. If I and Harry did what we do now he may know, but the way I and Harry became friends was very different. Him saving my life from a full-grown mountain troll because of Ronald. I barely see Ronald as a friend no offence."

Ginny looks surprised and says "none taken, I am also not happy with Ron. But what full-grown mountain troll?"

Hermione asks Ginny if she doesn't know when Ginny says she doesn't, Hermione tells the story. After Ginny was very mad at Ron and barely wants to kill him. She only doesn't as Hermione said in the end she doesn't care as Harry became her best friend as he saved her and Neville became a good friend. Hermione says that Harry saved her like he saved Ginny. Also, Hermione wouldn't want it any other way now.

After the Mountain Troll story, they tell their likes and dislikes. Ginny asks about Harry and Hermione answers what she knows. Hermione also tells dislikes of Harry about fangirls and Halloween as he lost his parents while others celebrate he doesn't want to. Also, those who thank him or call the boy who lived while he lost his parents rub Harry the wrong way.

Ginny makes sure she remembers it. She also promised Hermione that she isn't a fangirl anymore and know she was. She now knows the story is just that story. The real Harry is so much better. Ginny asks if Hermione will help her become better friends with Harry as she thinks she is just a friend. Hermione agrees to help her, but Harry is not ready for a relationship. Hermione doesn't know if that is true. Ginny accepts as she is also only 12 and Harry is just 13.

Hermione is afraid Ginny will capture Harry's heart and takes him away from her. It is one of her greatest fears and she will lose the will to live without Harry. Also, the idea of Harry not helping her, not giving guidance, not that her do what he asks and losing the feeling of safety and care of him will be too much to bear.

After talking about Harry they talk about their dreams of their job and Ginny can't help but say marrying Harry is still a dream but the real Harry, not the Harry the boy who lived is one of her biggest dreams the other wanting to become a chaser for her favourite team the all-female Holyhead Harpies.

1st September 1993, Leaky Cauldron

Nymfie hated her work since Harry left her home and stayed here to protect him as she can't hug him or talk to him like she could at home. She likes the field work more than desk duty so shadowing Harry wasn't a problem, especially with her natural-born ability. The problem was Hermione Granger his best friend and Ginny Weasley who he seems to be friends with too. Nymfie as a trained Auror noticed that Hermione got her necklace and Ginny got her necklace probably when she saw Harry running upstairs twice on the 30th of August in the morning during breakfast. She couldn't know for sure until she asked the Weasley for a private room for every meal probably to not be interrupted and to protect Harry from Sirius although that isn't needed.

She feels irritated when she sees Hermione and Ginny with Harry. Nymfie doesn't understand why this irritates her more and makes her hate Hermione and Ginny more than Susan while Susan is Harry's betrothed. She says to herself she isn't mad that Susan is Harry's betroth she is just mad that she still hasn't found her wizard and Susan did. She could never hate or be mad at Harry. She does tease him but more as she likes Harry when he is embarrassed and she would never do it with evil intent.

She tries to control herself with Occlumency and if her emotions run wild her natural ability will be affected. She never wants Harry to find out she shadowed him these past few days as she just knows he doesn't want that. She already has the feeling she must tell him and will withstand any punishment he gives her for not telling him sooner. It shocks her she hopes that Harry will give a sexual punishment and show the man that he is. She has the feeling to obey and look for his guidance when she does something even if her boss ordered it and she thinks Harry wouldn't like that or he ordered her to tell him every order her boss orders of her even if she is ordered by her boss not to tell anyone, she will tell Harry if Harry wants to know.

She sees it is close to 9 AM and she expects Harry, Hermione and the Weasleys down any moment. She and a 'small' Auror guard group will take them to King's Cross Station as pretend protection for Sirius Black. She knows that they don't really need protection from Sirius Black and she wonders if the other Aurors know or not. She hopes her mother can keep Sirius in their house to prevent him from seeing Harry off and getting caught.

She got a message last night that after getting Harry on the Hogwarts Express she needs to report to Director Bones and get a new very important assignment. She will be briefed by Director Bones. She had been thinking the last few days and wanted to ask Director Bones to inform her mentor if she trusts him and others she trusts.

Before she can think about who she can trust she sees Harry coming down. She can barely control her emotions as she sees he is happy as he talks to Hermione. Nymfie wants to take Harry away from Hermione. When she thinks of Harry as her Harry and not Hermione's Harry it shocks her a lot. She is more shocked when she is possessive about Harry but also that Harry can decide to be both her and Hermione's Harry. It is more like they are his not the other way around, that they will be Harry's Nymfie and Harry's Hermione and she can do nothing about it but accept it which arouses her a bit to leave her even more shocked that almost make her natural ability act out. She knows one thing and that is that she needs to find her own wizard to lose they thought. She will always love Harry ….. as a cousin, she soon adds.

Nymfie wonders if Hermione hugged Harry when they saw each other upstairs and probably said good morning. It irritates her, even more, she doesn't know and she can't do it. He is her cousin so she should be able to do it. She starts to hate Dumbledore for keeping him away from her. Nymfie wants to start hating Hermione but she can't as she knows Harry wouldn't like that and his not being pleased with her is hurting her. However, she can't suppress the thought 'I should be the first girl he loves and I should have the first chance to be intimate with him when he is ready.'

She immediately needs to look away and try her hardest to prevent her natural ability to react to her shocking thoughts. She barely manages and starts to tell herself why she will or cannot be with Harry. She focuses on the age difference, they are family and her needs. She doesn't remember that all those have been countered by her mother but deep down she knows.

She waits until the Weasleys are also down and when she checks the time she sees it is almost 09:45 AM. She wonders how much time has passed simply thinking about Harry until she saw the Weasleys. She will need to leave soon to get to Ministry to be there when the protection detail for Harry needs to leave and floo from the Auror Department immediately into here, the Leaky Cauldron. There are a few floos in the Auror department that can only floo you outwards not inwards unless you know the password or are allowed to. Tonks isn't only the Master Auror, her mentor and a few senior Aurors do including the DMLE Director, the Head Auror and both of their deputy directors, especially in these dangerous times, Nymfie wants to snort as it wasn't dangerous at all, the secretaries from both the Director of the DMLE and from the Head Auror.

When she sees the Weasleys, Harry and Hermione move to a private room again. She decides to leave and goes to the muggle side as she is sure almost none of the Leaky Cauldron will follow her there. She walks to the opposite side of the Leaky Cauldron in an Alleyway that is like the official Apparition point for the Leaky Cauldron. As soon as she is out of side from the street she apparates to the Ministry.

Around 10:15 she uses the floo to floo into the Leaky Cauldron with a 'small' group of Aurors. There are two more Aurors but they would have two cars ready outside to drive Harry, Hermione and the Weasleys to King's Cross station not leaving later than 10:30 because of the muggle traffic they should not arrive later than 10:50 leaving ten minutes to put their stuff on a trolley, reach the Hogwarts express and board it maybe even help them find a compartment. She knows the Weasley are always barely on time but it came even worse when Ronald the youngest son needed to go to Hogwarts or at least that is what she heard in the ministry.

She is one of the four Aurors. She is an Auror trainee last year just like Hestia Jones who is with them. The other two are Senior Auror Kingsley Shacklebolt and Master Auror Mad-Eye Moody who is also her mentor. Those who are getting the cars are two new Auror Trainees first year Amelia could get because of the budget raise. As Amelia knows this is a danger-free mission unless Sirius messes it up I would be a good introduction. Also, the other full Aurors needed to 'protect' Amelia Bones and her niece Susan Bones. Nymfie tries to forget Susan is Harry's betroth or better said one of the many wives he will get. She doesn't want to be part of that …. Or so she tells herself and almost swears by Merlin she doesn't.

Kingsley walks towards Tom and points to the back. She knows that is where the private rooms are. Kingsley and Hestia go get the group and she with Moody makes sure they are not ambushed when the Weasleys, Harry and Hermione leave the room.

She immediately draws her wand when she hears a large sound as do Kingsley, Moody and Hestia. Moody had cast Protego in front of them before they see where the large sound is coming from. They see Ron running away from the private rooms protecting something in his hand while a large orange cat tries to get something in Ron's hand. He keeps screaming monster keep away from Scabbers. The cat keeps hissing until Hermione picks the cat up and says "Crookshanks is not a monster. Right Crookshanks."

Crookshanks starts purring at his master's praise and pet.

Ron screams "that thing is a horrible beast. It tried to eat Scabbers."

Hermione rolls her eyes and says "it isn't a thing Ronald. It is a he and his name is Crookshanks who is half kneazle and half-cat. Cat eats rats it is in his nature."

Ron says "just keep that monster away from Scabbers."

Hermione is angry and walks towards Harry who is standing next to Ginny. Harry seems agitated. When Hermione stands next to Harry with Crookshanks Harry relaxes a bit but keeps his eye on Ronald who doesn't look their way and fusses over Scabbers, a rat.

Within 5 minutes the other Weasley's come from the private room and Mrs. Weasley orders the children to get their trunks and animal containers with the animal inside the containers. Nymfie almost wants to attack her for ordering Harry around. Nobody should order Harry around. She sees that just like her, Hermione and Ginny look to Harry to know what he wants. When he shrugs and goes upstairs Hermione and Ginny follow. Nymfie losing sight of Harry makes her thoughts go back to normal and lose her murdering thoughts directed at Mrs. Weasley.

She sees Mr. Weasley walking to Tom and giving him a piece of parchment. Tom reads the parchment and nods. When Mr. Weasley returns to the group Nymfie asks her mentor for a moment. He gives her a minute. Nymfie walks to Tom and asks for the bill of Harry and Hermione.

Tom nods and says "I already gave Mr. Potter the combined bill, but I can give you one too. Please, make sure to not pay double. I don't want to take advantage of Mr. Potter."

Nymfie nods and pockets the bill. She can give the bill to her mother the bill if Harry doesn't manage to give it.

Harry comes down with an empty cage and Athena on his shoulder, not in her container. Kingsley asks "Mr. Potter where is your owl and why do you have a snake?"

Harry says "my owl Hedwig likes to fly so I send her ahead so she can fly and doesn't need to be in her cage for hours. My snake Athena prefers to be outside of the container and as I can speak Parseltongue I understand what she says. It also kind of makes her listen."

Kingsley nod when he says "I understand but to my knowledge snakes are not allowed as a pet and you also can't take more than two."

Harry says "normally that is true but in the Hogwarts charter Athena is allowed as my second, I prefer the name, companion."

Kingsley says "are you sure?"

Harry says "I am also I also let Professor McGonagall, the head of my House and deputy headmistress know."

Kingsley says "I guess that is alright then."

Mr. Weasley asks to take Harry a part for a bit. Kingsley agrees if he can accompany them. Nymfie is close and hears Mr. Weasley warning Harry about Sirius Black and Kingsley says that he also needs to tell him that from Director Bones. Nymfie wants to snort as he doesn't have to be afraid of Sirius Black…. well not in the way they think of it. If Harry listens to Sirius too much Harry needs to be warned that he may get into a lot of detention if he follows Sirius and his father's example. Nymfie remembers pranks Sirius, James and their other friend Remus called. Sometimes they also used the name Frank who helped with pranks. Lily and other females' names were used when they were caught by them or they just knew they did it. Mostly ended up in the females hexing the males.

Hermione comes down next and walks towards Tom with a bag probably to pay. Tom refuses her Galleons meanwhile the Weasleys come down. Harry can't help but have a smug smile and Hermione does seem to notice. She walks towards him with fury and almost screams "Harry you paid didn't you? Admit that you did. Why wouldn't I have to pay otherwise."

Harry has a sly smile and says "I promise you Hermione I didn't pay Tom."

Hermione glare at Harry but when Harry doesn't react to her glare she walks back to Tom again Tom refuses and says loud enough to the Aurors, the Weasley and Harry to hear "Miss Granger there is already paid for."

When Hermione wants to know who Tom says "I am not at liberty to say."

Hermione looks back but she knows the Weasley doesn't. She is almost sure it is Harry who else would do so. She also wonders how much it was. She hopes if someone did it is Harry as there is nobody else she wants to own money to. She is afraid if it is someone else, the law regarding that as some laws or customs are barbaric with the House-elves as a prime example. She knows however one thing, she can trust Harry to help her. His mere presence makes her feel safe, comforted and dares she say loved. She immediately feels sorry for screaming at him. She also knows if Harry did so he doesn't have any intention that making her relieved but also disappointed which scares her.

Moody grunted and says "we need to go. The cars are in front."

Everybody follows Moody and Nymfie outside with behind them Kingsley and Hestia. Nobody seems to notice as Harry has the confidence to give Nymfie a wink that made her hair grow a light shade of red from embarrassment although she also feels happy as he hasn't forgotten about her even with Hermione and Ginny close. Nymfie looks but can't see the necklace with the fang.

When Harry sees Nymfie looking at his chest he gently puts his hand to his chest from above and pulls out a golden chain up far enough for her to see her wearing the necklace with the fang but someone isn't visible unless he pulls the necklace or the chain up.

1st September 1993, King's Cross station

The Auror trainees that drove the cars helped Harry, Ron, Hermione and Ginny with loading their trolley before following Moody's instruction of taking point and leading them to Platform 9¾. They are nearing Platform 9¾ around 10:53 AM. Moody tells the two Auror trainees to go first followed by Percy and Mr. Weasley as they are both adults so can use magic. Followed by Kingsley and the twins. Then he is with Harry and Ginny and finally Hestia with Mrs. Weasley and lastly Nymfie (Moody calls Tonks) and Hermione.

They go one after one other. Within two minutes everyone is on Platform 9¾. Halfway through the train, Moody orders the Auror Trainees and Kingsley to help put the trunk and animal containers on board. Only three containers are full. Hermione's cat container with Crookshanks who is sleeping but keeping one eye open focuses on the second full animal container of Ron with Scabbers. The last one is Percy with his owl Hermes he got from his parents as he became headboy. Hedwig's cage is empty and Athena's container is also empty.

Mrs. Weasley gives them all a big hug even Harry who has Athena on his shoulder. Harry gives Nymfie a wink again and waves at them and also waves at Nymfie as she is close to Mrs. Weasley. Nymfie could barely restrain herself as she wanted to hug Harry too although without choking him as Mrs. Weasley did.

As soon as the Hogwarts Express rides away too fast for the parents to follow Percy leaves the others while saying something about being a headboy and having more important business to take care of. The twins look at him which makes the others know Percy will be pranked very shortly maybe even before reaching Hogwarts, but where would be the fun in that?

They start to walk to the back of the train as mostly there will be free compartments. After passing only a few compartments they see only Lee Jordan sitting. The twins ask if they will be alright. Harry and Hermione both say they will and the twins move inside the compartment no doubt making plans for pranks including a prank for Percy.

They are moving to the end of the train. They pass Malfoy's compartment nearly at the end of the middle carriage (of the five carriages) who seem to be talking with Crabbe, Gyole and if Harry members correctly Pike and Zabini with Pansy hanging on his arm. Harry sees that she is acting like in love but he has enough experience to see through this façade. She pretends and is clearly not happy about it. Athena looks at them and starts to angrily hiss. She feels her master hates them, especially the blond one, the two big ones and the lanky boy. He doesn't know about the black one and feels sympathy for the girl.

They quickly move on before Malfoy notice them. Harry doesn't want to encounter Malfoy earlier than that will absolutely happen.

In the fourth carriage, Harry sees the Hufflepuff from his year as a couple of the boys and all the girls except his betrothed in different compartments. He is hoping nothing has happened and will not worry unless he doesn't see her at the feast.

At the end of the fourth carriage, they see the other Slytherin girls of his year namely Daphne, Tracey, Lilian and Millicent. Harry notices a younger-looking Daphne sitting next to Daphne. There is only a small difference besides age that he barely notice with a quick glance. Hermione gently pulls him forward before Ron sees Harry looking.

They continue until they reach the last carriage. They walk towards the end as all are occupied. Finally a couple of compartments before the end they see a compartment with only one person in it who is probably a teacher and looks asleep. They open the door and enter.

Ron asks "who is that?"

Hermione respond "Professor R. J. Lupin!"

Ron turns to Harry who was behind stays behind to look for Neville and asks Harry "how does she know that?"

Ginny smiled and replied, "because it is on his briefcase." She pointed while saying that.

Ron turns around and says "go Ginny find your own friends."

Harry sees Ginny's eyes start to show tears and Hermione looks shocked. Harry decided to do what he should have done last year. Ginny is already turning around, but Harry grabs her shoulder and said: "Ron if Ginny wants, she can stay here, actually I prefer if she stays here."

Hermione looks happy but Ron looks shocked. Ron said, "but Harry she is."

Harry interrupted Ron "I don't care what she is, but she is your little sister and I won't stand that you treat her again like you did last year. Last year I didn't say anything but now it is enough."

Ron shocked started stuttering "b-b-bu-but Ha-Harry."

Harry says confidently "no, but Ron if you don't like it find another compartment."

Ron was thinking for a second and then put his trunk up in the luggage rack and sits down. Ron sits against the window across from Professor Lupin. Next, to Ron sits Ginny with Hermione next to her and across from Ginny next to professor Lupin sits Harry. Harry sits nearest to the door of the compartment. Harry got a little headache when he heard the name Lupin. He knows he remembers it from somewhere but he doesn't from where. He needs to send Sirius and Andi a letter to ask about it.

Harry immediately forgets when he sees Hermione and Ginny bright smile at them. Almost half an hour into the trip there is a knock and the door opens. Harry is surprised at the knock and when looks he is relieved. It is Susan, fortunately, nothing happened. Hermione and Ginny greet her but she doesn't greet back. Her full focus is on Harry.

Harry hears Ron says "what are you doing here and do you want yo…."

With every word, Ron speaks his voice becomes more threatening. Harry stands up and says "stop Ron."

He says "why don't we talk in the hallways, Susan."

Susan nods although she knows it is no question but almost an order."

When they are outside and close the door to the compartment he asks "Susan, what are you doing here?"

Susan looks to the ground afraid she displeased him and says "Harry, as your betroth and by the control you have over me, I should always be at your disposal. Did I displease you, Harry?"

Harry takes a deep sigh and says "you don't have to be here Susan. You can sit with your own friends."

Susan starts to cry and says "I did displease you. I am so sorry Harry. Please forgive me."

Harry knows Hermione and Ginny are watching so he can't hug her. He says "no Susan you did not. You don't have to be at my disposal or something. I already said I don't want that control."

Susan blushingly says "but I do want you to have it."

Harry sighs before he says "don't you want to sit with your friends? I saw the girls of Hufflepuff in the other carriage."

Susan says "I know I saw them. They wanted me to sit with them but I want to sit here, but if you don't want me to."

Harry says "it is not that, but I think for now until we think it is time to reveal where are betroth we should just act normal. We can act more friendly but not much more."

Susan says "alright I will go to my friends."

Harry sees that she still has her trunk with her and says "let me at least help you with your trunk."

Susan says "really thank you, Harry."

Susan walks back and Harry quite easily 'drags' the trunk with him. They are a few steps away from the Hufflepuff girl's compartment. When Susan is sure they aren't watched Susan asks "are you really not mad Harry?"

Harry says "of course not Susan."

They don't see a Slytherin wondering why Harry followed Susan when they walked passed their compartment and followed them. She is lucky they are still in the same carriage so it would be easier to eavesdrop. Normally she wouldn't let other do it, but Harry was too important to let others do it even her best friend certainly in the case she currently is in.

Susan asks "really?"

Harry nods.

Susan says "prove it to me. Kiss me on the mouth as I should get as your betrothed."

Her sentence is heard throughout the whole carriage as the carriage is quiet and no one is outside beside them and the Slytherin. The Slytherin need to put her hand over her mouth to stop the gasp she let out.

Harry looks around but doesn't see anyone. He kisses her on her mouth.

Susan has little glassed eyes and says "thank my Lord Husband, My Lord Bones, My Harry."

Harry blushes. Susan shakes her head and says "sorry Harry. I can do the rest on my own."

Harry still embarrassed and asks "are you sure?"

Susan nods and kisses him on his cheek when she put her arms around her neck and pulls him down which he didn't expect.

Harry says "then I will return to the compartment. If you see Neville can you guide him to us?"

Susan nods. Harry says "alright Susan. I will see you at the feast."

Susan nods but when Harry walks away she doesn't enter the compartment. She steps in front of the compartment making the other Hufflepuff girls see her standing but decide not to capture her attention. They haven't seen who she is looking after but know that Susan will tell in time.

Let's end here for now. I wanted to get further but unfortunately, I didn't reach it. Head up that the coming chapters for any of my stories will take more time than that I wanted to do so.

In the next chapter, we will see the second part of the trip to Hogwarts which will look like the canon including a few characters and if possible the feast and class.

Please read and review. PMs are also appreciated.