Lost in the Music
Chapter Four

Disclaimer: I own nothing. The song is "Coin Operated Boy" by the Dresden Dolls.

Wow, this is the first thing I've written in about a year. If it's crap, I'm sry.

Ginny found herself once again standing on the stage, her one true home. The club wasn't really full tonight, as Mondays tend to be a little slow.

"Hullo, everybody! I know that all of us have had that one crush that never knew we existed. Really bites, doesn't it? There's not much that can be done, but here's my solution. Wouldn't it be great to have a..replacement for those troublesome relationships?"

The music began, reminding the small audience of a carnival from Scorned-Woman Land. Well, not really, but that's how Ginny liked to view it.

Coin- operated boy,
Sitting on the shelf, he is just a toy,
But I turn him on, and he comes to life
Automatic joy…
That is why I want a coin-operated boy.

This particular song was not just for Harry, as some may assume. It was for all of the boys that had ever backed down in the face of adversity, also known as Ron Weasley. The Trio had yet to realize that Ginny wasn't in need of their help when it came to certain matters involving her black little heart. Dating was overrated, though. Ginny saw no need to throw herself at a boy to get some sort of gratification for herself. She got all the love and devotion she needed right here, in front of all these people that don't even know her last name or childish nickname. It was a perfect system, really. Most of the benefits, without those troublesome emotions getting in the way.

Made of plastic and elastic
He is rugged and long lasting
Who could ever ever ask for more?
Love without complications galore.
Many shapes and weights to chose from
I will never leave my bedroom
I will never cry at night again

Wrap my arms around him and pretend…

The crowd loved this one. Unfortunately for Ginny, a certain older man walked into the club, knowing that he would find her on the stage. Remus was indeed getting annoyed with the red head's lack of respect for the rules that were so clearly explained to her, again and again. Yet, instead of interrupting her "utopia," he found himself a seat in a shadowy corner and sat back to enjoy the show with the rest of the club hopping audience.

Coin-operated boy,
All the other real ones that I destroy
Cannot hold a candle to my new boy, and I'll
Never let him go and I'll never be alone,
Not with my coin-operated boy….

This bridge was written to make you feel smittener
With my sad picture of a girl getting bitterer
Can you extract me from my plastic fantasy?
I didn't think so, but I'm still convincible
Will you persist even after I bet you
A billion dollars that I'll never love you?
Will you persist even after I kiss you
Goodbye for the last time?
Will you keep on trying to prove it?
I'm dying to lose it…
I want it.
I want you.
I want a coin-operated boy...

Remus was in awe of her talent, of course. He found himself tapping his foot along to the beat, and unable to take his eyes off of Ginny. Thank goodness no one was noticing his unwavering stare, especially the object of his attention.

And if I had a star to wish on,
For my life I cannot imagine
Any flesh and blood could be his match…
I can even take him in the bath!

Coin-operated boy,
He may not be real experienced with girls,
But I know he feels like a boy should feel.
Isn't that the point? That is why I want a…
Coin-operated boy,
With his pretty coin-operated voice,
Saying that he loves me, that he's thinking of me
Straight and to the point,
That is why I want,
A coin-operated boy.

Ginny opened her eyes, and with a grin at her fans, walked off the stage with her head held high.

Watching her leave the club that night, Remus decided that it was time for another one of those serious student-teacher talks. Ginny didn't seem to have learned her lesson. Perhaps another round of detentions are in order….