Harry lay awake in a wide, lonely bed. His arms were folded under his head and the world around him looked slightly fuzzy without his glasses. He rolled over and squinted at the clock. 7:00 a.m. He could have a lie in for thirty minutes and lament over Ginny, or get up and enjoy a walk up to the Castle instead of Apparating. He threw the duvet cover back and climbed out of bed.
Harry was due at Hogwarts for staff meetings and preparation before the new term began on September 3. Staff meetings. Harry had to smile inwardly. He was part of a staff now. He belonged somewhere- the same place he originally felt at home when he first came to Hogwarts at age eleven.
He stepped out of the house and onto the front porch. He closed the door behind and took a deep breath. The air was cool and crisp, fall was definitely approaching quickly. He was instantly glad he had chosen on walking up to the school that morning, now he could afford to take his time and ponder his thoughts as he walked.
A prayer. Why was it so hard to remember? It was just a simple series of words, but Harry could not seem to remember where he heard them before. After Harry had left Ron and Hermione's yesterday, he was in complete shock. He had to admit his departure was rude and no doubt worried Hermione, but he was stunned by the overload of emotion.
Ginny loved him. She hadn't broken her promise, she was still his one and only. It was as overwhelming as the day he'd awakened in the hospital to find out he'd been in a five year coma.
Harry was torn and confused. What should he do first? Apologize to the Weasley's? Plug on with his new schedule at Hogwarts? Or apologize to Ginny for eavesdropping on a conversation that was so personal and emotional? A conversation that, while didn't make up for six weeks of lying and scheming, went a long way toward explanations and reasoning behind her actions.
He had often acted rashly in his youth, it was far past time to let go of certain impulsive behaviours. He could not, would not just waltz back into Ginny's life like nothing had happened between them, pretending otherwise would be a lie. He had enough of lies for a lifetime. Harry wasn't even sure he knew Ginny anymore. She would definitely have to earn that trust back.
Ginny had nothing. She had made that claim herself, not Harry. He imagined she would have to find a new job, move out of her flat at the first of the month and help Hermione with the wedding. As he climbed the steep hill toward Hogwarts, Harry felt a pang of guilt mingled with sympathy. He tried pushing it out of his mind. It suddenly occurred to Harry that he would be spending an entire day with Snape and began feeling sorry for himself as well.
The Hogwart's Staff gathered around one of the tables in the Library. There were several new acquisitions he hadn't encountered yet and several familiar faces. The seat next to Bonnie Jean Campbell was open and Harry quickly slid into it. After he greeted the cheery librarian, he set his leather briefcase on the table and looked across to see who sat opposite him. Deputy Headmaster Severus Snape.
McGonagall strode purposefully into the room and took her seat at the head of the table. She set her tartan bag on the floor next to her chair and placed her glasses on the bridge of her nose. "Good morning staff, I trust we are all looking forward to another year at Hogwarts. We have one new staff member this year, taking up the Defence position. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Harry Potter."
Harry felt himself colouring as his new co-workers applauded his presence and welcomed him with an assemblage of smiles. He was truly humbled, until he looked at the Deputy Headmaster. His sallow face was curtained by his greasy, shoulder length, black hair and he wore his distinct sneer almost triumphantly. Harry knew, above all things, the Deputy Headmaster would not make his job easy. Regardless of Snape's scowl, Harry smiled back at the rest of his co-workers as Bonnie Jean patted his knee.
"Harry will be residing in Hogsmeade, but will obviously keep an office here. I hope you all take a moment after the meeting to introduce yourselves and make him feel at home." McGonagall discreetly let the corners of her mouth turn upward in what could only be classified a smile.
The meeting got underway with several discussions about the Head Boy and Girl and the Prefects. It quickly changed to a conversation about a glitch in last years scheduling process. Harry had no idea what that was about and soon found himself rolling the red, yarn bracelet between his fingers. He found himself drifting until McGonagall called someone's name and the woman on his right began speaking.
"Madame Fenwick will you still be donating your services to the town of Hogsmeade when the new term starts, or have they found a replacement for the Midwife?"
The woman Harry now guessed was Madame Fenwick, appeared to be the school nurse. "Yes, Headmistress, until they find a replacement for Mrs Florence I'm afraid I'll be tending to any issues. I don't believe anyone has even inquired about the position. There aren't too many qualified women available."
It finally dawned on Harry what the two women were speaking about and suddenly he found himself talking out loud. "I know someone." He announced eagerly.
The Headmistress looked at Harry with raised eyebrows and an interested expression. "What's that Potter, you know a midwife? Is she searching for a position?"
Harry cleared his throat nervously and rose from his seat at the table. "Um, she will be. It's Ginny Weasley, she's, er, left her position at St. Mungo's."
McGonagall seemed surprised, but pondered the thought. "Hmm. Ginny would be a nice addition to the village, she's young and not tied down to anyone- yet. I'd imagine Madame Fenwick or I could call on her at her parents' home?"
Harry nodded briefly. "I would imagine so."
Snape too ascended from his chair across from Harry. "Oh how convenient." he replied in his usual sarcastic drawl. "Potter's on again off again girlfriend is perfect for the job. Headmistress I issue my strict apprehension about approaching the Weasley girl in reference to this position. We all know Potter is already living in Hogsmeade and the arrival of Ms. Weasley would be too, shall I say, inappropriately accessible to Potter's fingertips. Potter would have her flat on her back in no time and expecting their own illegitimate mongrel of a baby."
Harry was livid. His fists were clenched and had Bonnie Jean Campbell and Madame Fenwick not grabbed his wrists and pulled him down he was sure he would have charged over the large table and hit the Deputy Headmaster square in the mouth. Harry didn't even hear several of the staff members gasp at the Deputy Headmaster's audacity, but McGonagall quickly brought the meeting to order again with her stern voice and a pointed finger. "Severus! That was unprovoked and uncalled for! I suggest that you work out your issues with Potter before this term starts, I will not be childminding the two of you for the year. Besides, I would think you would want Madame Fenwick here, to take care of Slytherin's Quidditch Team when Gryffindor mops the field with them the first game of the season." she smirked menacingly and returned her gaze to Harry. "Potter, please inform Ginevra that Madame Fenwick or I will be in contact with her as soon as possible."
Harry nodded affirmatively and turned his icy glare toward Snape, who looked like a child who had just been punished. His lips were pouted, his eyebrows knitted together, jaws clenched and his arms folded across his chest. The fact that he was angry about being put in his place made Harry even happier.
The meetings went on until lunch when McGonagall announced lunch was being served in the Great Hall. Harry walked downstairs with the other staff members, who all crowded around to introduce themselves, offer congratulations and offer any assistance if desired.
The Great Hall looked different, but the same somehow. Then Harry realized it must be the perspective from which he was viewing it. He now sat at the head table with the other staff. He looked out on the four, long, house tables, on of which he sat at for seven years. His eyes swept up the length of the head table considering everyone new and old.
Hagrid was gone obviously. His lack of presence was probably the most noticeable. Professor Grubbly-Planks had aptly taken over for him in Care of Magical Creatures. Professors Sinestra, Flitwick, Binns, and Snape still held their original positions. Neville, who was currently waving at him from the other end of the table, had replaced Professor Sprout. Padma Patil was the new Transfiguration Professor, Harry wondered if she was a registered Animagus or not. Padma was a Ravenclaw and they had never really known each other too well, but he knew only Hermione rivalled Padma for marks. A woman by the name of Lauren Wallraven, was the new Arithmancy Professor and Eleanor Branstone and Tracey Davis were the new Ancient Runes and Muggle Studies Professors, respectively.
Harry was unaware just who might be teaching the position of Divination this year. Trelawney hadn't been at the staff meeting and she wasn't here at lunch now. Harry found the whole thing rather curious and hoped the subject had been discontinued. He stopped after lunch to chat with Neville Longbottom and Padma Patil who had both taken up their positions after the war was over. Padma had aided in the restoration of Hogwarts with Hermione and had subsequently been offered Transfiguration when McGonagall had been officially promoted and accepted as Headmistress.
Harry quickly excused himself from the conversation when Neville showed signs of really wanting to chat extensively and exited the Great Hall. The heavy sound of multiple footsteps alerted Harry and he wheeled around to see Firenze starring down at him.
"F-Firenze?" Harry stammered, looking up into the dark, reflective eyes of the centaur.
He nodded affirmatively. "Harry Potter, I'm glad you are well."
Harry was in awe, the last time he had seen Firenze was in the few days before the final battle. "Erm, are you still teaching here?"
"Yes," he replied in soft, curt voice. "Have you completed your destiny Harry Potter?"
Harry was deeply confused. He knit his brows together and pursed his lips as he pondered what he thought was an obvious answer to a silly question. He was hesitant and mindful as he spoke. "Yes, I, er defeated Voldemort. I, um, would have thought everyone knew that by now."
Firenze almost smirked when Harry had finished speaking. "The death of he of whom you speak is not your full destiny Harry. The Prophecy made by Sibyl Trelawney only regarded one aspect of your life. Your fate lies within your own hands, each of us chooses our own fate. I would have thought your former Headmaster would have explained this to you."
Harry wrinkled up his nose. "Is this about Ginny?"
Firenze nodded. "Yes, I speak of the woman with red hair. She is your fate Harry Potter. While you may choose to ignore it, the stars have already shown your path."
"And what if I do choose to ignore it?"
Firenze seemed pensive, but matter of factly. "You will find each other in succeeding lifetimes and be presented with the same opportunity."
Harry didn't need Firenze to tell him his fate, he knew what he wanted, but not exactly how to achieve it.
He left Firenze in the main hall and continued up the stairs toward his office. As he rounded the corner on the second floor something green and scrawny slammed into his legs. Miffed, Harry looked down and recognized the apologetic voice immediately.
"Oh, I is sorry sir, I is looking for Harry P - "
"Hello Dobby." Harry replied with a smile.
The little house elf was completely taken aback. His little mouth opened in wide surprise and his green eyes bugged out even more than usual.
"Is it really you sir?" Squeaked the little voice as tears sprang from his eyes.
Harry chuckled as two little arms wrapped themselves about his knees. "Yes Dobby, it's me."
"Harry Potter! Harry Potter!" He squealed, jumping up and down. "I is heard you come to Hogwarts for a job, but I is not believing it so I come to Harry Potter's office." He leaned in and cupped his hands around his mouth as he whispered. "It is saying your name on your door."
"Yes, I am the Defence Professor now." Harry almost seemed to boast, he was proud of his accomplishments.
"Harry Potter has triumphed over He who must not be named yet again. I is proud of you. Tell Dobby, where is your Lady Wheezy?"
Dobby stood on his tip-toes, looking around Harry, expecting to see Ginny nearby.
Harry only shook his head sadly. "Ginny isn't here. She isn't mine anymore."
Dobby hung his head dispiritingly. Harry took the opportunity to look down too, if only to see Dobby's stocking feet. He was currently wearing one lime green and turquoise striped sock and one pink and orange polka dot sock. Harry forced a smile.
"So I live in Hogsmeade now." Harry offered, hoping to improve Dobby's mood.
"You is? Harry Potter has a house?" His voice was excitable and unbelieving.
"I is, I mean, I am, er, I do. Yes, I do have a house." Harry stammered.
"Harry Potter, I is promised myself that when Harry Potter grew up I go work for him. Harry Potter saves me from that bad family I work for. Harry Potter set Dobby free. Is Harry Potter needing a house elf?"
The last thing on earth Harry wanted was a house elf. He had to admit it was a little lonely at the house in front of the mountains, but a house elf?
"Well Dobby, I imagine you've signed a contract to work here at Hogwarts. You're probably expected to fulfil your commitment."
Dobby waved a hand at Harry. "Don't worry Harry Potter. Dobby will talk to Headmistress. Besides," he nudged Harry's knee with his elbow and winked, "Headmistress always is saying 'Dobby, I couldn't pay someone enough to take you off my hands.' See, I is doing good job."
Harry smacked his forehead with the palm of his hand. He wished Ginny were here, she always knew just the right thing to say, now it was looking like he would have a house elf.
"Oh I bet McGonagall will hate to see you go Dobby, it might not be wise to upset her."
Dobby closed his bulging eyes and stopped Harry's protest with a little hand gesture. "Harry Potter needs me, I is turning in my resignation."
Harry sighed in defeat. He now had a house elf.
It was later than Harry would have liked when he arrived at the Burrow. As much as the thought embarrassed him, he needed to apologize to Molly and Arthur for his blatant disregard of manners. He knew that they were probably sitting down at the table to eat their supper right now, but he didn't want to put off the apology any longer than he already had.
Harry took a deep breath after having Apparated onto the front porch of the Burrow. He would never just Apparate into the Weasley home without being invited first, especially when he was here to ask for their forgiveness regarding a careless manner. With a slight hesitancy he raised his hand and knocked on the front door.
He heard the bustle inside the house and footsteps approaching the door. The lock clicked and the door was slowly pulled open. Harry looked up from the stoop letting his eyes take in long, freckled legs clad in cut off shorts. He knew exactly who those legs belonged to.
Ginny was standing at the threshold, leaning carefully against the door. Her red hair was twisted up in a loose, impulsive looking knot with several locks of hair had escaped and had descended on her neck and shoulders. A tiny, white T-shirt was stretched tight across her chest. Harry only let his eyes linger a moment before noticing Ginny's obvious nervousness as she bit her lower lip and drummed her fingers on the door.
"I, um, are you parents here?" He quickly cast his eyes back down to the stoop while awaiting her reply. It felt strange to see her now, knowing the truth. Ginny loved him, she always had. Granted, he had eavesdropped in order to ascertain that information but he wouldn't have done that had it not been crucial. Nothing mattered except that she was still his one and only.
"Yeah, Mum's just finishing dishes, we're about to have pudding. Come in." Her voice was soft and disheartened. Harry noticed as she stepped back, widening the opening of the door that her toe nails were painted a pale shade of pink. She hated pink, or she used to. He stepped inside the house, unintentionally brushing against her shoulder as he did so. He closed his eyes for the briefest of moments, inhaling a superficial breath, catching a faint whisper of her essence.
Arthur meandered into the room carrying a few batteries and a flashlight. "Harry!" He shouted excitedly, his face bursting into a wide grin. "Molly, Harry's here! Now Harry, I've recently acquired this Muggle torchey, could you help me?"
Harry cleared his throat. "Er, torch." He annunciated carefully. Great. How was he going to talk with Molly and Arthur with Ginny here?
"Right, yes, torch. Excellent." Arthur handed the batteries and the light to Harry. "Amazing how Muggles have adapted to life without magic." he chuckled bemusedly.
Harry heard Ginny's soft footsteps behind him as he slid the batteries down into the flashlight tube and screwed the top on. He flicked the little switch on the top and saw the faint beam of light shine forth. "It will work better at night or in the dark of course." Harry declared, handing the flashlight back to Mr Weasley who stood in awe of the Muggle contraption.
"Fabulous." he muttered, turning the flashlight and looking into lens.
"Harry, welcome dear. How's the new house?" Molly offered, peaking her head around the corner of the kitchen. "Care for any peach pie?"
"No thank you."
He wasn't sure that Molly had even heard him. Ginny's voice caused Harry to turn around and meet her warm, brown eyes with his own. "You've moved out?" she asked, stunned and awaiting Harry's reply. Ginny's mind raced, surely he couldn't be living with Olivia Ollivander or something. Pictures of the two of them had been absent from the Daily Prophet lately due to Harry's new job at Hogwarts. You had to be living under a rock to not know the Boy Who Lived was teaching Defence at Hogwarts.
"Yes, I live in Hogsmeade now. The house is wonderful."
"Oh." Ginny's expression was inquisitive, as though she desperately wanted to ask more, but refrained.
"Ginny, it's after 7:00. Hermione will be expecting you dear. Kiss those grandbabies for me."
She walked over to the door and slipped on a pair of sandals and retrieved her wand from her back pocket. "Oh, all right. I'll see you tomorrow. Bye Mum, Dad, Harry." Her voice lacked any of it's usual spirit. She made eye contact with Harry for the briefest of moments before Disapparating away.
Harry stood looking in the place where Ginny had just been. The fact that she was gone created even more of an empty feeling inside him. An ache. A need. The sound of his own name jerked him into reality.
"Harry what brings you here dear?" Molly was asking sweetly, shoving a plate with a fork and piece of peach pie in his hands.
"Er, thanks. I was wondering if I could talk to you and Mr Weasley for a minute?"
Arthur was still marvelling over his new gadget but a quick elbow to his side told him to pay attention.
"Yes dear, what is it?"
Molly beamed and took a seat on the sofa. "Harry wants to speak with us."
"Oh yes, of course." Arthur placed the flashlight on the nearby table and joined his wife on the couch. "Right then, what brings you here Harry?"
Harry blew out a quiet breath and sat in a chair across from Molly and Arthur next to the fireplace. "I'm here to apologize."
"Whatever for?" Molly asked incredulously, nodding at Harry to eat up the pie she'd given him.
In truth Harry had forgotten about the plate in his hand, but took a small bite to appease Molly. "The evening of my birthday. I kind of let things get out of hand with O - "
"How is Ms. Ollivander?"
Harry was surprised at the tone of Molly's voice. It was cool and falsely charming. "Oh, well, we aren't seeing each other anymore."
"You aren't?" Molly questioned excitedly, clasping her hands together.
Harry couldn't help but smile. "No." He admitted sheepishly, cutting another piece of the pie with his fork. "That's why I'm here, to apologize I mean. I want you to know that I'm sorry for the way I behaved at my birthday party. You both went out of your way to make my first birthday in five years a nice one and I was too busy flaunting Olivia in everyone's face to appreciate it. He hung his head shamefully and let out a sigh. "I had a feeling Ginny was here somewhere, I've always been able to tell when she was around, I've always felt her presence."
Harry closed his eyes, feeling his throat tighten up. "I only wanted to hurt Ginny as badly as she hurt me. My relationship with Olivia was built on nothing more than spite. I knew rumours would get back to Ginny one way or another and I knew the heartache she would feel because of it. I had all the wrong ideas about growing up. She's the only girl I've ever loved in my whole life and I was too busy learning means of defeating Voldemort when I was younger to fully appreciate her and how much she meant to me."
He wasn't sure how much more he should say, did they know the truth about Ginny's relationship with Dean? About quitting her job at St. Mungo's. "I'm aware things haven't been easy for Ginny lately, I've been difficult and the press has been unbearable, but I'm trying to make things better. I've heard the truth and I believe what Ginny had to say."
Harry looked over at Molly and Arthur for the first time since he had begun talking. Their faces were full of kindness and sympathy and it made Harry feel even more guilty.
"Oh Harry, there's nothing to apologize for dear. You were hurt and behaved accordingly. We always knew Ginny loved you, we always knew it would never change. Nothing can stop true love. Ginny's made mistakes, and we all have- keeping the truth from you, but she's trying to fix them now. She'll have to find a new job, I'm sure you've heard she quit at St. Mungo's and you and she need to sit down and talk, when you're ready of course."
"I almost forgot, Madame Fenwick, the school nurse at Hogwarts will be pulling double duty once school starts. The midwife in Hogsmeade retired and they haven't found a replacement yet. Professor McGonagall asked if she could stop by and speak with Ginny regarding the job."
Arthur spoke up for the first time since they'd sat down. "Harry, that's generous of you to show concern for Ginny's well being. We appreciate it."
Harry quickly interrupted before any more was said. "Please don't tell her I mentioned the job. I don't want her to think I interfered because I didn't, I just heard McGonagall talking about it at the staff meeting this morning."
He took another bite of pie and set his plate on the floor next to his chair. He ran his hands through his hair, pulling it tight. Arthur and Molly gave him an encouraging smile, calming his nerves and breaking his resolve.
"I'm still in love with Ginny." He blurted out, startled that he finally admitted it, not only to himself but out loud. He looked up at Mr and Mrs Weasley, wondering what their expressions might be.
Molly's lip was trembling and she dabbed a little tear from the corner of her eye as Arthur patted her knee. "Oh Harry." she whimpered, cracking a little smile.
Harry too felt himself smiling. "It's early and I'm not thoroughly sure how to fix things yet, but I really want to work things out."
Arthur nodded carefully, as if in agreement. "Harry, take it slow, be honest about your feelings and talk everything through now before you have any regrets down the road." He rose from the couch and crossed the floor, extending a friendly hand to Harry. He stood and took Arthur's hand, grasping it firmly.
"I've done some awful things, behaved rudely, inconsiderately and vindictively. The fact that you can forgive me is a testament to all of you. I've got to gather my thoughts and speak with Ginny, but I'm satisfied that I know the truth now."
With an audible sigh he sat back down. "There's one other matter I'd like to discuss with you, it's Ron and Hermione's wedding present. I need a little help from both of you to make this work."
Harry Apparated from the Weasley home straight to the Three Broomsticks, to pick up some dinner before going home to empty cupboards. He ordered some soup and some bread and drank a Butterbeer while he waited. The evening was beginning to get cool, but it was clear outside and Harry decided to walk home the few blocks.
The streets were mainly empty and Harry felt glad for that. His mind was reeling from the events of that evening. Ginny, he had finally been able to see her for himself since the afternoon she had made her unconscious confession. Ron was right, she was beginning to fade away. When he saw her open that door he had hoped to see her face light up at his presence, but it didn't. Her face looked haunted and unresponsive, that wasn't the Ginny he knew. A part of him wanted to grab her right then and take her in his arms, whispering an apology for his eavesdropping and tell her that he understood that the lies she told were out of love. But he had to be more rational than that.
Harry neared his house and squinted his eyes as he saw movement on the front porch. He slowed his steps and reached into his robes to gather his wand and pointed it in the direction of the front door.
"Lumos." he declared, focussing the beam of light on four huddled figures on the porch.
"We is here Harry Potter! You're new House Elves."
Harry swore under his breath, and let out the fearful sigh he had been holding in his chest. "Elves?" He asked approaching Dobby on the stoop. Sure enough there was Winky and two smaller Elves with them.
"Yes Harry Potter sir." Dobby stated, picking up the little knapsack he'd brought with him. "I is gots a family now Harry Potter."
Harry wasn't sure how, but he'd managed to acquire four House Elves. Dobby and Winky, of course, and their two children Jo-Jo and Gabby, appropriately named. Where he was going to keep four House Elves was a matter Harry soon found himself worrying about more than Ginny. Harry quickly set up a room in the basement. Dobby was thrilled. Harry was simply glad Winky had gotten over her despondency with Mr Crouch.
After finally settling his new family of House Elves, Harry trudged upstairs wearily. He undressed quietly, not bothering to illuminate the room before he climbed into bed, suddenly realizing that there was much too much space around him. He longed for the nights when Ginny would creep into his dorm during the darkest nights of his life, rationalizing his meagre existence and giving his life meaning, if only for a little while. He needed to figure out how he would tell Ginny that he still loved her, he would always love her and he wanted to work things out. He would also need to apologize for listening in on Ginny's private moment with Hermione. Regardless of whether or not he knew the truth, he felt guilty.
Oh she had looked so empty, but beautiful today. Harry pondered as his eyelids began to get heavy. Rather like the antique dolls of Aunt Petunias that Dudley had broken. Yes, he need to tell Gin, to sit down somewhere quiet and just talk. Harry stifled a yawn in the dark and drifted off to sleep.
Minutes became hours, hours became days, and before Harry knew it, the week was through. He'd spent the week readying his classroom, adjusting his lesson plans and attending mandatory staff meetings. The Wednesday evening before the renewal of vows, Harry found himself in Diagon Alley taking care of some last minute business. He had bought Ron and Hermione's gift, which would take some collaboration on the part of the Weasley's, but ultimately he hoped it would be something Ron and Hermione would remember for the rest of their lives. He had also picked up something else, a gift for Ginny, in the event that he had not been there for her birthday.
As Harry meandered through Diagon Alley toward the Leaky Cauldron for dinner, he discovered he knew very little of the actual Wizarding Ceremony, but would hesitate in asking too many questions when he finally saw Hermione. He didn't want a lecture, just a description.
Up ahead, Harry swore he saw the swish of a long, red mane up ahead of him on the busy cobblestone street. He stood taller, straining to look over the heads of the crowd, but saw nothing familiar. Chalking it up to wishful thinking, Harry continued along toward the pub.
The Leaky Cauldron was as dismal as ever with a thick layer of smoke floating above the crowd. Harry snaked his way through the various tables and patrons in his way, toward the counter where old Tom stood with a toothless grin.
"Hey Tom, say can I get - "
"Harry?"
Harry spun around, startled by the soft, familiar voice.
"Ginny, what are you doing here?" Harry moved away from the countertop, pushing Ginny's body with his kinetic energy.
"I, er, just wanted to thank you for getting me the job in Hogsmeade. I was in Diagon Alley buying new Medi-witch robes." Ginny stuttered as she stumbled backward, stunned by his eagerness or tolerance to speak with her.
"Huh?" Harry asked, trying unconvincingly, to play stupid.
"Come off it Harry." Ginny teased, expressing a shy smile. "Who else would have so much news from Hogsmeade and send Professor McGonagall out to see me?"
Harry felt himself blushing. "No, it's not like that Ginny, that's why I didn't want you to know. I didn't really do anything. I was just in the right place at the right time, and I knew you were looking for a job - "
Ginny looked at him quizzically through the murky haze, squinting her brown eyes. "Wait, how did you know I quit my job at St. Mungo's and was looking for something new?"
Harry's eyes widened as he strained not to make a face or curse, giving himself away. He knew full well how he had heard the news of Ginny quitting her job at St. Mungo's. He heard it from her own lips, the day he monitored her conversation. Great. He would have to tell another lie.
"Oh, it's no matter." Ginny finally said, waving him off. "Mum or Hermione have probably told everyone by now. It'll be in the Prophet tomorrow, I'm sure of it. Regardless, I can't thank you enough." She hung her head humbly, letting her eyes fall to the wooden floor.
Harry fought the urge to reach out toward her and bring her chin up with the knuckle of his index finger. He clenched his fists at his sides instead, wishing he had been better prepared to see her tonight.
The uncomfortable silence lasted only a few seconds until Ginny remembered something else she had wanted to say. "What you're doing, for Ron and Hermione, their wedding gift I mean, it's really sweet Harry." She said, running her hand through her hair, pushing it away from her face.
"They deserve it. Did your Mum talk to you?" Harry replied, nonchalantly as he shrugged his shoulders.
Ginny nodded. "I'll help when and where I can."
That awkward silence was back. "Thank you." He finally whispered, stealing a glance in Ginny's direction. "I should be going, I guess I'll see you on Saturday."
"Sure, you don't know what time it is, do you?" Ginny asked, patting her wrist and looking around for a clock. "I've forgotten my watch at home."
Harry pulled his left hand from his pocket and jerked up his sleeve, forgetting he no longer had a watch, but the bright red string on his wrist drew not only his, but Ginny's attention too. She looked quizzically at the odd, but almost familiar, choice of a bracelet. She was distracted by Harry's voice.
"Damn." He muttered, letting his sleeve fall once again.
"Did you loose your watch?" Ginny asked with a genuine concern, causing Harry's heart to stir.
"No, I, er, gave it back to Olivia when we broke up."
"You broke up?" Ginny asked bringing her hands up to cover her mouth. Harry noticed the absence of the engagement ring he had thrown at her feet the evening of the Christening at the Burrow. The void of the diamond caught him off guard and he felt a sudden heaviness of heart. Maybe she had truly given up on him.
"Yeah. She wasn't the right one, but no, I'm sorry I don't know what time it is. I haven't bought a new watch yet."
"Oh, I'm sorry about, you know, everything - " Ginny began, but Harry cut her off.
"Look, we have to sit down and talk or something. We can't go through the rest of our lives in this uneasiness."
"I agree." Ginny whispered, looking down at the floor again.
Harry let a smile creep over his lips. I wish I had time now, but I don't, I've got a house full of elves to feed." He saw her lips curve into a faint smile and held up his hands to stop her from asking the inevitable question. "Don't ask, I'll tell you some other time."
Harry cursed quietly to himself as he tried for the umpteenth time to tie the bowtie around his neck. He knew he should have asked Hermione or Molly, or Ginny about these sort of things. Hell even Remus would know this. With a defeated sigh he tucked the tie into his pocket and Disapparated to Ron and Hermione's.
All the ladies were readying themselves over at the Burrow and the chaps were all at Ron's. As Harry navigated the house, looking for Ron, he spoke briefly with Fred and George who conspired quietly with their heads together and a chorus of snickers broke the relative silence. Harry was sure they had to be planning something special for Hermione that night. He instantly sympathized for her, and for Fred and George when she found out about it.
Bill, Charlie, Percy and Arthur all mingled through the house, greeting Harry with pats on the back, knuckle rubs on the top of his head and a polite handshake (from Percy of course). Arthur finally had the courtesy to inform Harry that Ron was finishing getting dressed in his room. Harry ducked around the corner and quietly knocked on the bedroom door.
"Come in." He heard Ron answer from inside. Harry pushed the door open and stepped inside.
Ron was slowly pacing the floor, holding Liam over his left shoulder and patting his back gently. His face broke into a grin when he saw Harry.
"Hey mate, glad you made it. You've been so busy lately I thought you were going to back out on me."
Harry smiled. "Never. How's everything going, I know I've not been around much, but thankfully I'm all settled now. How's Hermione and the boys?"
Run shrugged carefully as not to disturb the sleeping baby. "Hermione is a sight less off her rocker than she was the first time we did this. Sheesh, that was an experience. Think of her the day before her NEWT's and multiply it."
Harry laughed remembering the argument that ensued between Ron and Hermione the day before NEWT's when Ron had tried being patient, but finally snapped. After her constant barrage of questions and quizzing, Ron threw his Transfiguration book out the window in the common room. Hermione had been in clear shock of the display and had marched upstairs to her dorm to pout. Ron had been so satisfied with her reaction. He bragged to Ginny and Harry that he had put his foot down and had enough. Harry and Ginny knew better. An hour later Ron was summoning his book back upstairs and panicking that he had angered and hurt Hermione and sent Ginny upstairs to get her so he could apologize.
"Mind holding him so I can finished getting dressed?" Ron asked, offering Liam to Harry. "Hermione and Gin have Benjamin, we thought they might be easier to handle that way."
Harry nodded, taking Liam from Ron and sat on the edge of the bed. Ron slipped robes on over the suit he was wearing. The thought suddenly sprang into Harry's head that he was spending his last few minutes with Ron before he got married again.
"I wish I could think of something really clever to say." he began, looking from Ron down to Liam. "I wish I could have been there."
Ron turned away from the mirror where he had been trying, to no avail, to tie his tie. "Mate, the fact that you here today says enough. It wasn't your choice not to be here the first time around."
Harry said nothing, but looked down at the sleeping baby in his arms. Had it not been for the stupid prophecy, his whole life would have turned out differently. The sound of Ron's bowtie hitting the bed caught his attention.
"Oh sod it all." Ron grumbled. "So anyway, tell me about the house. Hermione can hardly wait to see it."
Harry shrugged. "It's a house. Nice view. And I have a nice family of House Elves to help take care of it."
Ron burst with laughter. "You do. Oh Harry, Hermione is going to go spare. Please tell me it's not Dobby."
"The one and only, with Winky and their 2 children. They create more work than they accomplish in a day."
Ron continued to laugh until Harry interrupted. "Contrary to your beliefs this is not funny Ron."
"You're right, it's hilarious. Potter and his House Elves. And I thought twins were a handful." Ron continued to snigger readying himself and tucking his bowtie in his pocket. Arthur knocked on the door announcing it was time to Apparate over to the Burrow.
"Well, there's no backing out now mate." Harry teased, carefully rising off the bed.
Ron smiled. "I wouldn't leave her, not even for all your Galleons Harry."
Harry shook his head slowly, amazed and happy he would finally witness his best friends' wedding. "I've never seen anyone like the two of you."
"Except you and Ginny." Ron replied, not thinking of the implications. He suddenly froze with a grimace etched into his face, wondering what Harry's expression might be. Surprisingly it was pensive.
"Not any more. Ginny grew up fast, she had too, and I grew up even faster. I don't even know if I know her anymore. Even if we could build that all back up, I don't think we would be the same."
Ron raised his eyebrows hopefully. "Does that mean you want to try and build it back up?"
Arthur entered the room clapping his hands together excitedly. "Ready lads?" He asked enthusiastically, startling Liam in Harry's arms.
"Sure thing Dad." Ron answered, peaking over at his son, who had thankfully returned to sleep.
"Harry, Hermione would like to see you after you Apparate in. She's got a favour to ask."
Harry nodded and one by one they Disapparated to the Burrow.
When Harry Apparated into the living room at the Burrow he was met by giggling girls, the smell of perfume and roses and small children being passed around from happy face to happy face. He felt Liam being snatched from him by one of women in the room and was quickly met by Mrs Weasley.
"Harry, I'm so glad you're here, Hermione's been asking for you dear." He was physically pushed into the bedroom where Hermione was preparing. Molly didn't even knock on the door, but flung it open, forcing Harry inside.
Harry almost thought to close his eyes- just in case Hermione wasn't decent or something, but thankfully the occupants of the bedroom were dressed.
Ginny and Hermione were facing one another, grasping hands. Molly closed the door behind him, startling Hermione and Ginny.
"Er, am I interrupting something?" Harry questioned, nervously fidgeting with the hem on his sleeves.
Hermione looked beautiful. She wore an ivory coloured Grecian style dress with a beaded scarf draped around her neck and her hair was styled up with delicate curls entwined with pearls as opposed to the frizzy coiffure she usually wore. If she looked half this pretty on her original wedding day, Harry was devastated that he missed it. "You look beautiful."
"Harry! Oh, well thank you. No, of course you're not disrupting." Hermione answered, stepping toward Harry. "Where's your tie?" She finished in an accusatory voice.
Harry avoided looking at Ginny and dug into his pocket and produced the bowtie. "I, er, couldn't tie it."
Hermione giggled "Oh Harry, give it here." She made to step near him but caught Ginny's eye and suddenly backed off. "Oh, I've forgotten my bracelet, Gin you do it."
Harry felt as though his throat was parched and closing tighter and tighter with every millisecond. His heart thundered loudly in his own ears and fluttered inside his chest. He swallowed with difficulty as Ginny turned away from Hermione and stepped toward Harry. She wore a dress and robes of navy blue and her coppery orange hair was styled into a chignon at the base of her neck where a single miniature blush coloured rosebud was tucked into her hair.
Ginny refused to make eye contact as Harry hesitantly handed her the satiny strip of fabric and tilted his chin upward. She gently placed the tie around his neck, careful to work it under the collar of his shirt. Harry closed his eyes when the tip of her finger brushed against the side of his neck as she prepared to knot the tie. Her touch haunted him in an exciting, almost taboo way that quickened his pulse and made his palms sweat. Harry wondered about the words he heard her whisper "I never want to feel this way about anybody else." why was it so familiar and yet so unreachable, as if it were in the furthest corner of his own mind. Ginny continued to refuse to meet his eyes but she knew Harry was glancing down at her. The thought made her nervous and shaky. She quickly finished the knot and stepped away.
"Thank you." he whispered quietly, wishing she would turn back around so he could see her face.
"It's nothing." She replied, moving toward Hermione to help her with the bracelet.
Hermione smile faded into a frown as she witnessed the continued awkwardness between them. She had hoped that Harry would have spoken to Ginny before now and was disappointed that he hadn't. She wondered if eventually she would have to take this into her own hands. "Harry, I have a favour to ask."
"Name it."
"Well, it would mean a lot to me if you would give me away."
Harry was pleasantly surprised. "Are you serious?" He asked, watching Ginny peer out the window down into the garden below.
Hermione blushed a little as she gazed down at her left hand, seeing the sparkle of the diamond ring on her third finger. "Yes, well you and Ron have been my best friends for so long and I can't think of another person I would rather have give me away to my husband."
Harry cracked a smile. "Well then I guess I'd be honoured too."
"The Superintendent Registrar Carlisle from the Ministry of Magic is here Hermione.
She nodded and wiped a small tear from the corner of her eye as a knock reverberated on the door and Mrs Weasley poked her head in. "It's time dear. Everyone's in the garden waiting."
Ginny scooped up a bouquet of blush coloured roses from the bed and stopped to wish Hermione good luck. "It'll be easier this time." she began with a smile. "Harry's here, as he always should have been. You look beautiful and your beautiful babies and my lucky git of a brother are waiting on baited breath for you outside. There's nothing Ron wouldn't do for you and I couldn't have asked for a better sister in law."
Harry watched Hermione blush as Ginny began praising her. Harry knew that Hermione felt guilty about helping him eavesdrop on Ginny. She would be fessing up sooner rather than later. Ginny kissed Hermione's cheek and briefly caught Harry's eye before wishing them luck and disappearing with her mother from the room.
"Ready Mrs Weasley?" Harry teased, offering her his arm.
"Always." She answered, grabbing her blush and ivory coloured bouquet of roses and linking her arm in Harry's.
Harry escorted his best friend out onto the front lawn of the Burrow, so they could complete the short procession Ginny had begun. While they were standing on the lawn together, awaiting their musical cue, Harry took the opportunity to approach the subject that had been weighing heavily on his mind the last two weeks. "I'm going to tell Ginny." He began, watching the leaves flutter on the trees. It was a beautiful September day. "I can't pretend that I don't know. I don't know how she lived with her guilt so long, it eats me up every time I look at her."
"Are you still in love with her?" Hermione asked quietly, holding her breath in anticipation of his response.
He sighed almost in defeat. "I will always be in love with her."
Hermione squeezed Harry's arm excitedly. "Oh Harry, just tell her - "
Harry quickly cut her off. "No, I'm not going to pretend like nothing has happened. I can't say what I would have done if Ginny had told me the truth the night I woke up at St. Mungo's because Ginny didn't trust me enough to speak up. I don't know if I know her anymore, or if I can trust her anymore. I have to figure out what's left in that shell of a person I gave my heart to seven years ago."
"I'm sorry, you're right." Hermione whispered, giving him a faint smile. "I just want the best for you Harry, you deserve it."
He smiled in return as the familiar strains of The Wedding March and began to walk Hermione around the side of the house toward the ceremony.
The garden of the Burrow was decorated more beautifully than Harry could have imagined. There was a large, white canopy strung over the middle of the yard where the guests were seated. There were enchanted vines and flowers decorating the posts for the canopy, glittering, twinkling fairy lights completed the decoration.
Everyone rose from their seats as Harry and Hermione stepped under the canopy. He could see Ron smirking next to a very short, shrivelled old wizard with in black robes that dragged on the ground. He had short puffy hair that seemed to stick out in all directions and wore a monocle on a long chain In his gnarled old hands, he held a small leather bound tome with golden runes embossed into the cover.
Harry wondered where the music was coming from and finally saw Professor Flitwick standing on a podium at the side of the tent, charming a small orchestra of instruments to play. Harry could see Ginny, standing on the other side of the official, looking down into the bouquet of roses. She seemed to be having a difficult time keeping her composure.
Harry and Hermione completed their procession and were now standing in front of the Superintendant Registrar from the Ministry of Magic. Harry first slipped his arms around Hermione and kissed her cheek then turned to Ron and shook his hand and enveloped him into a one armed hug.
He finished by taking both of their hands and joining them together.
"Keep being good to each other. You deserve all the happiness in the world."
Harry patted Ron's shoulder, stepped to his side and waited as the official began the ceremony.
"We, the family and friends of Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger Weasley have gathered here today to celebrate their marriage in a renewal of vows. We have come here to witness the commitment Ron and Hermione have for each other and their children, Liam and Benjamin. This couple has embodied the loyalty of marriage and set up the framework that enables the establishment of a home and children where through trust, patience and respect, and the love which they have for each other, may develop into a lasting relationship and a happy, healthy family environment."
Harry couldn't help but smile at Ron and Hermione who had obviously gone through so much to be together. Mr and Mrs Weasley were holding the fruits of their union, little Liam and Benjamin slept peacefully in the arms of their grandparents, unaware of the love their parents had shared for each other for so many years.
The grizzled old wizard turned the page in his book and continued. "Please join hands." The official muttered a long utterance and asked Hermione to repeat after him.
Hermione turned to look up into Ron's eyes. Her soft voice was calm, cool and clear. Her intent was sweet and meaningful. "You cannot possess me for I belong to myself, but while we both wish it, I give you my heart which is mine to give. I am a free person and you shall not command me, but I shall serve you in those ways you require and the honeycomb will taste sweeter coming from my hand. I pledge to you that yours will be the name I cry aloud in the night and the eyes into which I smile in the morning. I pledge to you the first bite of my meat and the first drink from my cup. I pledge to you my living and my dying, I entrust each in your care. I shall be a shield for your back and you for mine. I shall not slander your name but I shall honour your name above all others, and when we quarrel we shall do so in private and tell no strangers our tribulations. Do not ask me to abandon or forsake you, for wherever you go I will go too. My family will be your family. Where you die, I will die. This is my wedding vow to you. This is the marriage of equals."
Harry looked over at Ginny whilst Ron repeated the words. Her eyes were locked on Harry's. They stared at each other with a burning intensity, it filled Harry's heart with a blossoming hope that maybe something of the two years he spent with Ginny could be spared.
The raspy voice of the Superintendent Registrar made Harry focus on the ceremony once again. "Please retrieve your wands and take each other's hands."
Ron and Hermione held their wands in their right hands and with their left hands, completed a ring and held each other's wands as well.
"The circle is a ancient symbol which denotes unity, it has no beginning and no end. The circle is the symbol of the sun, the earth, the universe and all eternity."
A violet glow began to encompass the circle making all those present smile and gasp in awe. The colour brightened and a soft thrum began to echo throughout the garden. Ron's and Hermione's rings began to glow the same purple hue.
"May I have your rings please?" The wizard asked, holding out the runic tome.
Ron and Hermione each removed their wedding band and laid it carefully on the book in the outstretched hands of the Registrar Carlisle. When the violet glow finally evaporated from the metal bands, the old man gave his instructions.
Ron took Hermione's ring, placing it on her finger and began to speak. "I give you this ring as a constant reminder of the promises we made yesterday, the love we share today and the hopes we have for our future. As I place this ring upon your finger, receive my promise of faithfulness to you. It is a seal of the vow I make to you that we may live together in unity, love and happiness for the rest of our lives."
As Hermione recited the words and placed Ron's ring on his finger. Harry drifted again. The thought of never exchanging words like this with Ginny was unbearable, from the day he fell in love with Ginny he couldn't imagine his life without her. He was committed at least to getting to the bottom of their misunderstanding and make an attempt at reconciliation.
The Registrar produced his wand and extended it over Ron and Hermione. "May life's blessings be upon you. May you see your children's children. May you be poor in misfortune and rich in blessings. May you know nothing but happiness from this day forward. May you have walls for the wind, a roof for the rain and drinks beside the fire. Laughter to cheer you and those you love near you, and all that your heart might desire."
The old wizard closed his book and smiled. "You have exchanged vows and rings and consented to renew your vows in the presence of your family and your friends. By the power entrusted in my by the Ministry of Magic, I pronounce you husband and wife. Ron, you may kiss your bride."
The guests clapped enthusiastically as Ron pulled Hermione close, wrapping his arms around her and kissing her warmly. Harry couldn't help but smile. His two best friends had just pledged to spend their lives together. As he congratulated them both with handshakes and hugs he wished he had been here the first time.All the guests turned toward the aisle and raised their wands above their heads. Each of them sent off a lovely burst of sparks that arched over the happy couple and showered them with sparkles as they proceeded back down the aisle. Harry met Ginny's eyes and offered her his arm. She took it sceptically and retreated down the aisle behind Ron and Hermione.
An hour later the chairs had been magicked around several long tables and a large feast was set before them. Harry was nervously rehearsing the toast he was about to give and caught Ginny looking at him and quickly looked away. He was determined to share the truth with her the first time he could allot a private moment with her. He supposed under better circumstances, Hermione should be there to apologize as well, but in this case her apology would have to come later. He rose from his chair and cleared his throat.
"I met Ron and Hermione twelve years ago today and every day of my life since then was a little better because they were in it and I have the sneaking suspicion they both knew they were in love with each other long before Hermione had the courage to admit it. The love they share is like something I have never seen or known before. I can only hope to achieve the level of happiness they have attained so early in their lives. I wish them all the happiness, all the luck and all the love in the world. Please rise and join me in toasting my best friends Ron and Hermione Weasley."
Harry lifted his glass toward Ron and Hermione as all the guests rose from their chairs and gestured their glasses toward the happy couple. "To Ron and Hermione!" they expressed cheerfully. As Harry sat down everyone applauded and was rewarded with a sumptuous feast prepared by Molly, Ginny, Penny, Fleur, Ekaterina, Alicia and Katie.
The jangle of silverware on plates was all that could be heard for several minutes as they all enjoyed the meal. Harry recognized plenty of faces, but failed to identify just as many. The familiar faces were members of the order, Remus included, some of the Hogwarts' staff, those who attended Hogwarts with he, Ron and Hermione. He instantly recognized Luna, of course, who wore a hat made from a birdcage and live, white doves. Those Harry did not know he assumed were from the Ministry.
The orchestra began playing enchanted music again, courtesy of Professor Flitwick. Unbeknownst to Harry Angelina Johnson, Fred's fiancé, was an amazing singer and had agreed to sing with the orchestra. The tables were vanished and the chairs banished to form a border around the tent, leaving a place for dancing. The infant Weasley twins were put in the nursery to sleep and the evening activities were under way.
Harry was happy to talk with Neville and Luna (who's hat was even stranger up close when the doves cooed) and Parvati and Seamus, Lavender and her date. The only Gryffindor missing from their year was Dean, and the air was heavy with his absence. It was evident one of them were missing. Harry found himself happy to be disturbed by Mrs. Weasley.
"Come Harry dear, it's time for the dance."
"Dance?" He asked sceptically, praying he had heard Mrs. Weasley wrong.
"Yes dear, dancing. It's tradition you know." No, I didnt know. No one had mentioned anything about dancing. Damn that Hermione. Damn me for not asking questions. Damn I should have learned to dance.
"But I don't dance Mrs Weasley."
She giggled, sounding as if she'd had one too many Butterbeers. "Don't worry about it, Ginny will show you how."
With that, Mrs Weasley grabbed the cuff of Harry's sleeve and dragged him back toward the white awning, covered in ivy. Harry protested the entire way, mumbling and trying to make random excuses, but quickly found himself face to face with Ginny.
"Er, um, hi." he finally stammered, nervously pulling out the edge of his collar. She said nothing in return and let her eyes fall down to the ground. Mr. Weasley had arisen and introduced Harry and Ginny as the Best Man and Maid of Honour. Ron and Hermione quickly joined them under the awning as Angelina did a quick Sonorus charm with her wand and Flitwick's enchanted orchestra began playing a new song.
Harry took a deep breath and slipped his left hand around Ginny's waist and gently lifted her chin with his free hand. He was surprised by her quick intake of breath and, as their eyes met each other, the tears that were welled up inside them. He quickly removed his hand from her chin and grasped her left hand, and as he felt her other hand rest upon his shoulder, he leaned in to whisper. "Don't cry Ginny, not here."
Ginny nodded and closed her eyes, feeling the rhythm of the music and began to sway with the beat. Harry soon picked up on her tempo and began to move in response to the flow of sound. Harry's thoughts soon betrayed him and he found himself remembering the first time he had ever seen Ginny. The small, freckled girl waving goodbye on Platform 9 ¾. The following summer he had learned she fancied him. How stupid he was not to react to that. No, he waited four more summers, after Harry had learned she had 'given up' on him first. He'd been such a coward. He could feel Ginny underneath his hands. She was soft in all the right places he thought a woman should be, and he couldn't believe she thought he was originally worthy enough to share her innocence and purity. His mind leapt forward to the most recent past, hearing her confession and that she was physically faithful to him all this time. She was still his one and only.
Unbelievably, Harry's own thoughts were choking and constricting him and he blurted out the truth, liberating himself from the agony in his own mind.
"I know everything Ginny."
Ginny stopped dancing immediately. "What?" she asked, looking up to finally meet his eyes.
Harry ceased his movement as well, but refused to let go of her body. The jumbled thoughts turned into words that spilled quickly from his mouth.
"Ginny I know everything. I was at Hermione's that afternoon the day after your birthday, the day you told her everything. I heard it all." He had not intended to tell her in this manner, but now seemed as appropriate as any other time.
She was bewildered. Was Harry serious? How could he possibly know? "What do you mean?" she finally asked, playing innocent.
"I heard you." he answered plainly, trying to keep his voice even, so as not to alert the entire wedding. "I heard everything you said to Hermione that day she invited you over for tea. You never betrayed me."
Ginny's heart began to race. He finally knew the truth. "How?"
Harry quickly shook his head and glanced around at everyone, who seemed to be looking directly at them. "Dance." he whispered. Ginny dragged her feet slowly, in utter disbelief of what was occurring. She had waited weeks for this moment, when the truth would sink in.
"It doesn't matter how I know, only that I do. I'm sorry, it was part of a meddling plan Hermione conjured up. I'm sorry I felt it necessary to eavesdrop, it was completely unfair."
Ginny's lip began to tremble and Harry saw the tears return to her eyes. "I wanted to tell you. I wanted so badly to tell you, but you wouldn't listen to a thing I had to say. Why?"
"I don't know." Harry began, looking around at potential prying ears, "You haunted and consumed my every thought and I couldn't stand the curiosity anymore."
A single tear marred Ginny's beautiful face. "And do you, do you still love me?" She stammered, gazing in to Harry's vivid green eyes.
He wanted so badly to say yes, maybe he loved her more than he ever did, but there was so much more to say. He wasn't sure that he knew Ginny anymore. "Ginny, that's not how I want to begin this conversation - "
She worked her hand from Harry's grasp and pushed his shoulder away with her other hand. Harry instantly knew she was taking this all wrong. Ginny turned away and walked from the dance floor, leaving him to stand alone. Harry quickly tried to smile at Ron and Hermione in what he hoped was a reassuring way and decided to go visit some other guests to avoid the gossip.
Harry stood alone at the edge of the awning, clothed in the darkness of night. He wasn't sure if Ginny could see him or not, but he had been watching her. He couldn't count on one hand how many other men she had danced with. Too many in Harry's humble opinion, and currently she had what Harry knew to be a fabricated smile on her face and her arms around Neville Longbottom. Harry, of course, knew this to be harmless, but still, it infuriated him all the same. It should be his arms around Ginny. It should be him smiling down at her. It should be him underneath those fairy lights, breathing that same heavy, sweet air. Harry suddenly felt a looming presence and was surprised to see Luna standing beside him.
"Hello." She replied in an ethereal voice. Harry could now see that her blond hair formed the bird's nest in her hairpiece, and her wand formed the bird's perch.
"Er, hi." Harry answered, looking at the bird cage hat from the corner of his eyes. In a strange way it was captivating. "Why aren't you dancing?"
"I was. Ginny asked Neville to dance for old time sake. That's ok. So, why aren't you dancing?" Her voice was airy, but direct.
Harry shrugged. "Dunno."
Luna smiled. "She's still in love with you. Some things you can just tell."
"You think so?" Harry asked hopefully.
She nodded. "Nothing can stop true love. You should know that by now. Look at Doris Purkiss and Stubby Boardman."
Harry raised his eyebrows in an anticipatory manner and waited for her to continue.
"Oh you don't follow them?"
Harry shook his head.
"Whirlwind romance. It all began in The Quibbler, you know?"
Harry had to smile inwardly. Good ol' Luna.
"Besides, that vine you were dancing beneath was infested with with amo insettos. You have the look of someone who's been bitten. I wrote a feature article all about it."
Harry rolled his eyes and shoved his hands into his pockets. Only two people in this world knew the truth that happened between Ginny and… Dean. "Hey Luna, do you think you could do me a favour?"
As Fred and George closed the ceremony with a spectacular fireworks display, Harry took the opportunity to present Ron and Hermione with their wedding gift. The newlyweds stood with their arms looped around each other and their foreheads resting together, Harry hated the thought of disturbing them.
"Erm, guys?"
"Oh Harry! The toast was lovely. Thank you."
Hermione turned to hug him briefly as Ron slapped him on the back. "Thanks, well anyway, since I wasn't here the first time around I decided to get you something for a wedding gift that I know you didn't already have."
Hermione and Ron both looked sceptically at Harry, knowing he probably went overboard. Nevertheless, Harry produced a small envelope and handed it to Hermione.
She carefully slit open the heavy parchment and pulled a square piece of paper from the envelope. She turned toward the fairy lights under the awning and began to read. Harry watched on triumphantly as her face broadened in surprise.
"Harry, you shouldn't have." Hermione gasped, handing the paper to her husband.
"Never you mind what I should or should not have done. I pulled the appropriate strings and Ron can have time off starting Monday if he wants, and I've already arranged for the twins to be taken care of by Mr and Mrs Weasley, Ginny and me."
Ron finished reading the parchment and handed it back to Hermione. "Harry, it's too much. Really." His voice cracked with emotion and disbelief.
Harry shoved his hands into his pockets again and looked pointedly down at the grass. "Bollocks. If there's anyone who deserves a honeymoon in Paris, it's the two of you. Everything is taken care of. All I want is for you to go and have a good time. There were a lot of factors that prevented you for going on an original honeymoon, I know that, but I'm telling you that if you refuse my offer I'm going to be really hacked off." He finally lifted his gaze to look up at them and smile. "It means a lot to me that you stuck by me all this time. Even when I was the world's biggest prat, or lying in a coma. Please do this?"
Hermione looked over her shoulder at her husband and cracked a smile. "I have always wanted to go back to France." She replied sweetly.
Ron smiled and shook his head. "All right, all right. I give up, we'll go."
Hermione squealed excitedly, wrapping her arms around him and squeezing him tight. "Oh thank you Harry, you're unbelievable!"
He laughed a hearty laugh, one that sounded as if it had been absent and aching to get out for some time. "It's nothing. You deserve it."
Ron grinned slyly and elbowed Harry in the ribs. "Only Harry Potter would show me up at my own bloody wedding." He joked with a head shake, trying to deduce how he could ever pay his best friend back. "Thanks mate, I mean it."
Harry sighed happily and looked out across the lawn. Most of the guests had left, but the fireworks still danced around the backyard. Out in the garden, all alone, stood Ginny.
"How's it going?" Ron asked, indicating whom he was talking about with a head tilt .
"Not sure." Harry replied truthfully, scuffing his shoes in the grass.
"Maybe I should go talk to her?" Hermione offered, turning toward Harry first and then Ron for confirmation.
Harry shook his head. "No. This is your night and I won't have anything ruin that. I need to be the one to talk to her, we have a lot to say." His best friends both offered him a pat on the shoulder as he slowly walked away. His footfalls were muffled by the lush, green grass as he advanced toward Ginny, standing by the low garden wall, clutching her arms around her for warmth. It was only then that Harry had noticed the sudden cool dampness to the air. When he finally approached he quietly took off his dress robes and laid them around her shoulders.
"Nice night."
His presence startled her and she jerked tensely.
"Merlin's beard you scared the hell out of me." she clutched her chest and tried catching her breath.
"Sorry."
Ginny looked down at the navy blue robes surrounding her and looked back up at Harry before she pulled them closer. "Thanks."
There was several moments silence between them before they both started to speak.
"Harry."
"Ginny."
"I'll go first."
"No I want to."
Ginny had won out. She did not choose to look at Harry, but out at the orchard behind the Burrow instead. "Why are you doing this to me?" she asked insinuatingly. "I came here today all ready to let you go. To tell you that if you wanted me to let you go and pursue life with someone else, I would do that for you. That doesn't mean I stopped loving you, just that I love you enough to want your happiness instead of my own. I was wrong and I've been terribly selfish."
Harry said nothing in reply, but fixed his gaze on what he imagined she was looking at out in the grove of trees. "It's been fifty four days since the night you last kissed me in the Leaky Cauldron, ninety two days since our kiss when I awoke at St. Mungo's, and 1911 days since you kissed me farewell before the final battle. Do you have any idea how much I wanted to kiss you tonight?"
The words spilling from Harry's mouth were stunning. "Y-you did?" Ginny asked innocently.
Harry threw his hands up in frustration. "Gin, I want so badly to start over, but you've told so many lies I don't know if I know you anymore."
He abandoned the view of the wiry apple tree and let his eyes caress Ginny instead. "Do you still hate burnt toast?"
"Yes." She laughed.
"Still like marshmallows?"
"Yes."
"Refuse to wear pink?"
"Yeah."
"Do you still like daisies?"
She only nodded, too overcome to say anything else. She knew it wasn't that easy to get to know someone again and it was his attempt at humour, but hope was overwhelming. "I'm still the very same girl you fell in love with."
Harry shook his head angrily, the brief moments of sentiment had vanished. "My Ginny wouldn't have lied, not to me! She never would have lied. Is there anything else I ought to know that you've been lying about?"
His voice was charged and incriminating, and it hurt. Ginny denied him emphatically as the tears streamed down her face. "No Harry, no."
"Was there anyone else?" He fired accusatorily.
Her jaw dropped open in indignation and her lips quivered with brimming emtion. Her reply was quick and passionate. "I was always yours! Always!"
The moment was heated and hysterical, rousing and tear-jerking all at once. They both stood facing one another under the auspices of a starry sky.
After several deep breaths, when Harry fully had his temper under control, he let out a defeated sigh. "Ginny, I know you acted out of love, but it was wrong and it doesn't make me feel a hell of a lot better knowing that you spent months with Dean. It kills me to know that I wasn't here to hold you, comfort you, kiss you, and you had to get all those things from someone else."
A look of panic and desperation had returned to Ginny's face and the sobs and tears returned again.
"Harry, I'm sorry, I was at the end of my rope! I didn't know what to do anymore, I felt lost and I was afraid I was losing you too. In the days before you woke up I spent our last moments together each night telling you that - "
"You never wanted to feel this way about anybody else."
Harry didn't know where the words had come from, but they were suddenly spilling from his mouth.
"H-how did you know that?"
Harry closed his eyes as the memories flooded his mind.
It was dark, just as it always was with his comatose memories. He could feel Ginnys hand wrapped around his. Her forehead rested on his arm and he could feel the warm tears on his skin. Ginny was audibly sobbing and her voice was hushed and urgent.
Harry please come back, please come back. Dont leave me here. I cant do all this without you, I dont want to do all this without you. I know you can hear me Harry, please listen. Im lost, Im gone and Im empty without you. I want you to come back, I love you, I miss you and Ill never feel this way about anybody else.
So that's where it had come from. The familiar words were a plea. He folded his arms across his chest and stammered out an explanation. "At St. Mungo's I hear you saying it under your breath, some kind of prayer, that you'd never feel this way about anybody else."
"And I won't. I know I left you bruised and battered by my words and the stupid things that I did, but you have to believe I did them all out of love for you. I didn't know if you'd even want me anymore. We didn't know if you'd regain your memory, if you'd have amnesia, or if you'd wake up at all – I knew that first night at St. Mungo's after you woke up that I couldn't walk away from you, even if it was for your own good. I never felt so awful, so trapped, and so alone as I did that following night when I went home. Even though I wasn't in love with Dean, I had made a commitment and was beginning to feel guilty about it. Loving you was is the only thing I have ever known, and I never wanted you to know the awful things that I'd done. I wanted to come back to you on my own, with a clear conscience."
He couldn't imagine what Ginny had gone through in the five years he had been comatose. It must have been emotionally draining to watch someone you loved slowly fade away from you right in front of your eyes, and be able to do absolutely nothing about it. Harry reached out with his left hand, the cuff of his sleeve exposing his wrist and gently brushed a tear off Ginny's cheek, savouring the feeling of her smooth skin.
"What's the red string?" She whispered quietly, closing her eyes and leaning in toward Harry's hand.
He laughed absently. "It's the red yarn you tied around my birthday present. After you left that night I just sat on the steps inside Grimmauld Place holding it in my hands. I didn't know what to think, or what to feel but it just seemed like the right thing to do. Like a connection to you. Oh, which reminds me."
Ginny felt the absence of his hand from her face as he dug inside the pocket of his suit jacket and produced a small satiny envelope. "I wanted you to know I didn't forget your birthday."
Ginny hesitantly took the small pouch and pulled it open. Inside was a small, gold, heart shaped locket. She pried open the charm and found a picture inside of she and Harry and their godsons, taken the afternoon of the Christening. The wizarding photograph seemed to reflect hers and Harry's moods and their depictions were casting each other odd glances and seemed hesitant to be near each other. "Oh Harry, it's beautiful. Thank you." Ginny praised. "Help me put it on?"
Harry took the necklace and stepped around behind Ginny. As he prepared to clasp the necklace around her neck, Ginny pushed the collar of the robes out of his way. He could see she still had not put the engagement ring back on. Ginny felt the cool metal chain touching her skin and happily looked down where the locket lay on her neckline.
"Where's your ring?" He demanded quietly, as she dropped her hands from the robe's collar.
Ginny was glad the evening sky could hide her embarrassment, she folded her hands together tightly. "I quit wearing it after your birthday, I didn't think you'd appreciate it anymore. I decided if I was really going to let you go I had to stop wearing it. Do you want it back now?"
"No." he replied, taking in the beauty of her face, the soft, cool breeze billowing his robes around her body and gently drawing her hair out of place. "I don't want the ring back and I don't want you to let go either."
With a burning intensity Harry looked deep within Ginny's chestnut coloured eyes and slowly extended his right hand, palm side up. Ginny swallowed hard while the tears cascaded from her eyes once more, and with a fearful, child-like hesitancy, unlocked her fingers and reached out toward Harry. When she gently laid her palm on his he gripped it firmly and pulled her toward him. He enveloped her body in his arms, one arm held her close to him, his other hand gently nuzzled the back of her neck. She buried her face into his shoulder, grasping the lapels of his jacket and wept loudly.
"I'm so sorry Harry, I never wanted to hurt you. I love you so much."
As the breeze died down and the sound of crickets chirped through the garden, Harry held Ginny in his arms and hushed her with quiet whispers as he kissed her forehead. "It's all over now. Tomorrow we start something else." He paused and gently began to rock her body back and forth in his arms. "I want you to know something, I never stopped loving you either."
Author's Note: Thanks goes out to Karen who beta'd this beastly chapter and to everyone who reads and reviews. Chapter 16 is underway.
The wedding vows were slightly adapted from ceremonies by , The Celtic Wedding Vow by Morgan Llewelyn, the book of Ruth from the New American Bible and the Celtic Wedding Blessing.