This chapter is dedicated toUS and Canadian UN Troops everywhere in the world. Thank you, Moses.
It had been six long weeks since the fiasco on the Quidditch Pitch and Harry still had his job. Eventually the match had gotten underway, but Harry had missed the entire thing. Harry and McGonagall had accompanied Severus Snape to the hospital wing, but Snape insisted that Madame Fenwick lock the ward and that only the Headmistress was allowed inside.
Harry walked back toward the stadium alone, consumed with guilt. In the distance, coming up from the pitch, Harry could make out Ginny walking toward him. He stuffed his hands in his pockets like a naughty child and looked down at the ground.
"My brothers said they'll drop your cloak off with Dobby at Rose-Tree," she said when they met face to face.
Ginny would not say any harsh or condemning words; the look of disappointment on her face had been all the punishment Harry needed. She told him that she realized that Snape and the Potters had an interesting past, full of vengeful acts, and that she was not taking sides. It was wrong of Snape to insult Ginny or Harry's family, and it was wrong for Harry to strike back. Ginny seemed to be most upset that Harry had kept secrets from her. She told him that she felt isolated and rejected despite the fact that his original intentions were noble. She delicately told Harry she would not tolerate secrets anymore.
Harry had quickly agreed that he was finished reacting to Snape's idle threats and harsh words. Snape was a jealous and miserable man, and Harry's sheer ignorance was the worst punishment possible for someone like him.
Harry offered to admit he had given Snape the potion, but Ginny pointed out that it would do no good to do that because Snape would only retaliate further, Harry could lose his job and it would reflect badly on Hogwarts if it were known the Professors played these silly games. Ginny thought that living with the guilt that Harry would feel regarding the matter would be worse than receiving a one-time rebuking from McGonagall. Harry ultimately relented and vowed not to keep secrets anymore.
Therefore, six weeks after the Quidditch Match, school was out for Christmas break and Harry was looking forward to spending his first Christmas with Ginny in several years. He wanted to make things special, but not predictable. He knew that Dean hadproposed to Ginny at Christmastime, and Ginny probably had mixed feelings about the holiday. Harry was glad to have many extra gifts to buy this year: his godsons, his new House Elf family, and the ever-expanding Weasley family, too.
During the holiday season, Harry and Ginny had happily decorated Rose-Tree together. Holly, poinsettias, mistletoe, fairy lights, candles in the windowsills, and a large, full evergreen tree brightened the cottage. Harry and Ginny hiked up the mountain behind Rose-Tree and cut down their own tree (magically of course, so they could replace it after the holiday) and all the Christmas cheer got Harry thinking.
It was obvious to him what was truly important, and repeatedly, Ginny topped the list with the rest of her family. They were the only true family Harry had ever known, and he still thought they were uniquely perfect.
Each member of the family was an individual, but contributed to the whole. They each had their own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes. In some cases, they shared similar traits; sometimes they could not be more different. All Harry knew is that he wanted what they all had and he decided that began with Ginny.
Before the final battle, they had made plans together. Harry was going to leave Hogwarts and begin his two years to become an Auror with Ron. Ginny would finish her last year at Hogwarts and was considering becoming a Healer. As soon as they settled themselves, they would get married.
It had seemed so simple then. Not to think of the war, or interference they might face. That was the innocence and naiveté of youth. It helped distract Harry from the fate he was so sure of, that he would die at Voldemort's hand.
Harry recalled visiting the Birthing Ward when he couldn't sleep at St. Mungo's. He had seen the tiny babies sleeping in their cribs and decided that was what he wanted: a family with Ginny. A family always started with two people; more or less depended on time and affection, but two always began it, no matter which way you looked at it. Days after his release from the hospital, he had bought Ginny's ring from a Muggle shop in London. Then, everything had fallen apart.
He had planned to ask Ginny to marry him the evening of the Christening, but instead he had thrownthe ring at her feet and left the Burrow furious and hurt. Harry had not seen Ginny much, but noticed that for a while she had worn the ring, but had abruptly stopped when Olivia Ollivander had entered the picture.
Harry promised himself that things would be different this time, and vowed to do things right. The first step would be the easiest, if it went well, or the most difficult if it didn't... Harry made plans to visit the Burrow.
Harry waited until there was an evening when Ginny would be working and Owled the Burrow, asking permission to visit. He was, of course, welcomed to visit anytime, and he planned his visit after dinner.
Harry Apparated to the front porch of the Burrow with a bouquet of Biting Snapdragons and, what Muggles called, a Magic 8 Ball. He figured it wouldn't hurt to bring gifts when one were about to ask for someone's hand in marriage.
The knot in his stomach tightened when Harry rapped on the door, and waited for someone to answer. He never had to impress the Weasleys before, but now it was of the utmost importance.
Mrs Weasley opened the door, surprised to see Harry standing outside instead of just Apparating inside the house. "Harry, dear, what are you doing out there? Come in, come in," she replied, inviting him inside the house.
"Oh, er, Mrs Weasley, I just- it was polite," Harry answered nervously, stepping inside the warm and inviting house. "Er, these are for you." he declared, handing Mrs Weasley the pink snapdragons.
"Why, Harry, how sweet!" Molly beamed, taking the flowers and blushing profusely. "Thank you."
Demureness gone, Mrs Weasley turned and called over her shoulder in a loud, shrill voice, "Arthur! Harry's here!"
Mr Weasley peeked out from the kitchen and into the living room. "Evening, Harry," Arthur offered, extending a hand of friendship. "Why didn't you Appa- what on earth is that?"
Mr Weasley was studying the black object in Harry's hand. "Oh, it's a Magic 8 Ball; it's for you. I thought you might like it. You just ask it a 'yes' or 'no' question, turn it over, and it gives you an answer. Muggles love them," he answered, tossing the ball to Mr Weasley.
"Brilliant!" Arthur exclaimed, awestruck of the new gizmo in his hands.
Harry smiled nervously and scuffed the toe of his shoe on the carpet.
"So, what brings you here this evening, Harry? Ginny isn't here," Mrs Weasley professed, watching Harry blush.
"Oh, I, er know. I came to talk to you and Mr Weasley about something."
Mr Weasley's eyes widened with realization. "Oh," he replied. "Right, let's just have a seat then, eh, Harry?"
"Yeah, I mean, yes," Harry affirmed, correcting his grammar, waiting for the Weasleys to sit before he sat down. He noticed the Burrow was already decorated for the Holidays with tinsel, bows, and boughs of holly. A Christmas tree that was much too large for the small room stood in the corner.
"Semester end well?" Molly asked, levitating a tray of tea into the room.
"Oh, fine. I'm impressed, actually. They're better students than Ron and I used to be," Harry laughed absently, letting his mind wander for a moment, recalling the old days.
"Well, they couldn't be any worse, could they?" Mrs Weasley joked, pouring three cups of tea.
"Not much," Harry admitted with a sly grin. "We had some good times, though."
"Indeed. What can we do for you this evening?" Molly inquired, passing Harry a cup of tea.
Harry gently took the cup of tea and looked down at the floor. "Well, it's about Ginny, actually," Harry began, grateful that Mrs Weasley was trying to make things easy for him. "And me," he added as an afterthought.
Mr Weasley asked, looking over the rim of his own cup of tea. "What might that be?"
Harry took a deep breath and felt himself colour warmly. "Well, I love Ginny more than I ever did. The way I love her has changed somehow."
"Changed?" Molly questioned.
"Well, uh-" Harry quickly took a gulp of his tea. He scalded his tongue, and forcing himself to swallow, his eyes began to water. "Gah! Well, it's um, just deepened, you know?"
"Deepened?" Mr Weasley asked sceptically, raising one eyebrow.
Harry was feeling rather foolish. Were the Weasleys just fooling him? Surely, they knew how he felt about Ginny. "Er, Sir, I guess in my youth, I wasn't sure how long 'forever' would last. It almost ended on June 20, 1998. I never knew what it was like to live for Ginny until I almost died for her. I thought I had been through the worst when I awoke from that coma all alone, in the middle of the night. I thought that was when Happily Ever After would start, but I had been wrong again. If I had lost her while I was in the coma, I wouldn't have known it, but when I almost lost her to my ignorance, our immaturity, and our own pride, I felt every pang in my heart, every hitch of my breath, and every memory of my time with her singed my soul.
"Mr and Mrs Weasley, I love your daughter, and I want nothing more than to make her happy for the rest of our lives,"he paused, gazing at their faces reflected in the warm light of the room. Neither of them looked angry. That had to be a good sign. In fact, Mrs Weasley was wiping some tears off with the ruffled edge of her apron.
"Last July, I went to a Muggle jewellery store and bought Ginny a ring. I lay awake nights in the hospital, thinking it all out. I didn't know anything about tradition; I just knew I wanted a family: what you have together, what my own parents dreamed of. I didn't know why no one would discuss Ginny with me, nor why they all walked on eggshells until the night I threw that ring at her feet after the Christening."
Harry paused with another audible sigh and looked down at the floor. He roughed up his hair with his free hand and wondered if his father had ever been in this same situation. The thought gave him strength.
"I guess what I'm trying to say is, I love Ginny, and she's the only one for me. That ring is upstairs on her dresser, and I want your permission to put it on her finger where it belongs."
"Sweet Merlin, Harry, I never thought you'd spit it out!" Molly cried, silencing herself as she looked over at Arthur.
Arthur removed his glasses, wiping them on his robes. "Ginny never had it easy. She was picked on while growing up, the same things were expected of her that we demanded from the boys, and she spent a lot of time alone. The last five years have been rough on Ginny, and her absence from our family hurt her and hurt us. She may be twenty-two years old, but she is naive, good hearted, and innocent. She may be an emancipated adult, but she's still my little girl. Molly and I have tried to raise her the best way we knew how and to instill the values in her that we hold dear. We couldn't provide all the materialthings we wanted for our children, but there was never a lack of love or guidance. I know you will never hurt for money, and I know you know there are more important things in this world besides Galleons. Not even three months ago, the two of you sat before us, asking for our patience and acceptance of your renewed relationship, and I was on your side then. Against my better judgement, I agreed to give the two of you the space and time you needed to restore your relationship to its former lustre. I didn't know if you would succeed or not, but I was willing to give you the benefit of the doubt. You quickly proved me wrong, and I could see just how much you cared for our daughter, just as I can see it now. The only thing I ask for is your fidelity, honesty, good treatment, and everlasting love for our only daughter. Can you promise that with sincerity?"
Harry's face finally warmed into a smile. "I swear it. Ginny will never want for my love, attention, admiration, appreciation, or anything else I have to offer."
Mr Weasley's jaw was set firmly as he inclined his head in his wife's direction. "Molly dear, what do you say?"
Mrs Weasley could only nod and cry.
"Well, in that case-" Arthur declared, rising from the chair across the room from Harry and, shaking up the Magic 8 Ball, he waited for its reply. "'Signs point to yes'. Welcome officially to our family."
Harry let out a puff of nervous laughter and rose to meet the Wizard whom he hoped was his future Father-in-law. He shook Mr. Weasley's hand. "Thank you, sir."
"Arthur," Mr Weasley corrected Harry.
Harry blushed. "That will take a while."
"Oh, I prayed for this day!" Mrs Weasley wailed. "Despite my misgivings about the two of you living together, it was only because I wanted you both to be sure you were together again for all the right reasons and not out of habit or a sense of obligation. I can see how much you love each other. You've been through so much and just manage to come out stronger with each challenge you face. Oh, I can still remember you as that little boy standing all alone at Platform 9 3/4. I just wanted to take you home and make you one of our own. To give you all the wonderful things in life you never had. From that day on, when Ginny ran along after the train, nothing was the same. And now it's official. You're finally going to be our son."
She dabbed her eyes with the apron again and pulled Harry into a bone-crushing hug. "Oh, my babies are getting married!"
"When are you planning on asking her, Harry? Christmas?" Arthur inquired, trying to comfort his wife and pull Harry from her talon-like grip.
"Ergh," Harry exclaimed, finally taking air into his lungs again when Molly released him. "No, I was thinking New Year's Eve. I'm sure her memories of Christmas proposals are a bit, um, jaded," Harry answered, obviously referencing Dean's botched proposal. "I think maybe she'll be expecting it at Christmas, so I'll give it to her on New Year's Eve."
"Hmm, good point, and hey, look! The Magic 8 Ball agrees with me! 'Outlook good'," Arthur offered, shaking the sphere again.
"Well, I was thinking-" Harry began, before he was interrupted.
"We'll have to have a party!" Molly exclaimed as her eyes twinkled excitedly.
The only party Harry had been considering was a party for two on that bearskin rug that he'd received for a housewarming gift. Upon consideration, he reckonedthere would be time for that later, and Ginny would probably want to be with her family to (hopefully) celebrate the good news.
"Go upstairs and get that ring, Harry," Mr Weasley announced proudly, patting him firmly on the back.
"I can't thank you both enough for everything you've done for me. You've given me the best Christmas I could ever imagine. I promise I'll treat Ginny with respect and kindness and I'll make you both proud."
"We know, Harry," Mr Weasley answered as Molly continued to weep.
Harry stopped at the room on the third landing and pushed the door open. Ginny's blue bedroom was always a bit of a disaster, but Harry found it endearing and deeply personal. Scrubs littered the floor, along with skeins of yarn and balls of socks and piles of shoes. He couldn't wait for Ginny to move in with him full time.
On the corner of the dresser, under the mirror, sat a blue box with a loosely tied white ribbon. He reached out, took the box in his hands, and removed the diamond ring. He realized that he could not take the entire box, Ginny would notice it was missing and know something would ensue. An idea came to him, and he reached into his pocket and pulled out a small bronze Knut and his wand. He quickly transfigured the Knut into a diamond ring and replaced it in the blue box. It wasn't nearly as brilliant and sparkly as the original ring, but he hoped it would fool Ginny for a few days. He slipped the platinum ring on his own pinkie finger, smiled boldly, and Disapparated from the bedroom.
"Harry James Potter, where are you going?" Ginny asked, seemingly for the one hundredth time as Harry helped her into her cloak.
"Shopping. Told you already," he answered vaguely, purposefully withholding the information.
"But where?"
"Muggle London," he answered just as nonchalantly.
"But I don't know Muggle London very well," Ginny whinged, stomping her foot.
"I know," Harry replied confidently, waggling his eyebrows. "That's why I'm Christmas shopping there, and don't bother trying to find me, either, because you'd never guess or locate where I'll be, so-" and he blew a loud raspberry.
"Not fair," Ginny pouted, crossing her arms over her chest and watching Harry pull a jumper over his head.
Harry grinned, causing the corners of Ginny's mouth to turn up too. "You're pathetic, Gin, really pathetic."
"I can't help it!" Ginny defended herself. "I've snooped for Christmas presents every year since I was seven years old."
Harry laughed. "I can just see you too, unwrapping and re-wrapping presents and placing them back under the tree. Getting caught and putting your hands on your hips and stamping your feet-" he mimicked her pose, and paused for dramatic effect. "-just like your Mum."
Ginny's mouth opened in indignation and there was a soft 'oh' sound escaping her. "I see how you are, Potter," she teased, playfully pushing Harry away from her. "No, my mother used to tell me that I'd ruin Christmas."
Harry smiled as the hall clock chimed three times. "C'mon Spoil Sport, we'd better go if we're going eat dinner at the Leaky Cauldron tonight, too."
Harry and Ginny Apparated into the Leaky Cauldron, after making a quick trip to Gringotts Wizarding Bank. The pub was still full from lunchtime of Holiday shoppers taking breaks for hot Butterbeers and croissant sandwiches. The perpetual layer of smoke loomed over the crowd and old toothless Tom waved his hello.
"I'll see you back here at half six, all right?" Harry replied, taking Ginny by the shoulders and pressing a kiss to her cheek. "Behave yourself," he added teasingly, as an afterthought. "Don't go exploring."
"Fine," Ginny huffed, nuzzling her cheek against Harry's. "Have fun."
"You too, love."
Harry disappeared through the Leaky Cauldron onto Charing Cross Road and set off on the streets of London. His first stop was an easy one, a gift he had promised Mr Weasley some time back.
Ron's gift had been thoroughly perplexing him. Ron was his best friend and had everything a man could want: a successful career, a talented wife who loved him, children and a home. He and Hermione were living an upper-middle class lifestyle and wanted for nothing. A sudden burst of inspiration had enlightened Harry when he passed a sign in a sporting goods store for the Football World Cup. Ron still followed the Chudley Cannons. They were already in the midst of a season, but surely, season tickets would be on sale for next year already. Harry would just Apparate over to the stadium tomorrow and buy them.
Harry's last stop was the jewellery store where he had bought Ginny's ring. He had decided to get Ginny's ring engraved and buy Hermione, Mrs Weasley, and Ginny's Christmas gifts there, too.
Harry walked the familiar path he had first travelled inJuly. Once again, he passed St. James Park and felt the solace that his father had once done this, too: bought a ring and proposed to someone he loved. He thanked his lucky stars he did not have the hassle of choosing a ring again. No, now he had to figure out what he should have engraved o thediamond ring that was tucked safely away in his pocket.
Harry paced the floor of the jewellery store, praying for inspiration. How could Isum up everything a person means to me in just one sentence? Ginny's, Hermione's, and Mrs Wesley's identical Christmas presents sat atop the counter, perfectly wrapped, and the saleswoman smiled sympathetically at Harry, who paced. After he had worn a clear path in the floor, the synapses in his brain fired. There was a short, but powerful phrase to epitomize his and Ginny's relationship: My one and only.
An hour later, Harry exited the shop, having waited personally for the engraving to take place. He had the ring and a newly wrapped blue box back. It was later than he'd expected and he'd been due to meet Ginny at the Leaky Cauldron ten minutes before. He knew she would worry if he took the underground back to the Charing Cross stop- he would need to Apparate back to the Leaky Cauldron.
He walked a little way before ducking down the nearest alley. He warily looked around and finally stepped behind arubbish bin. He cast a glance over his shoulder before removing his wand from his shirt pocket underneath his jumper. Two crows cawed, startling him, but Harry successfully Disapparated.
The Leaky Cauldron was half-empty by 6:30, and some of the smog had lifted. Ginny was waiting patiently at a small table near the fireplace when Harry appeared in the middle of the room.
"Hi!" she said cheerfully, jumping up from her chair to help Harry with his physical burdens.
"I'm sorry if I worried you, I was running late," Harry answered, making sure Ginny did not take any bags she oughtn't.
She settled back into her chair and pushed the chair next to her toward Harry. They arranged the packages in another empty chair as Ginny spoke up, "No, I wasn't too worried, yet; you're only a few minutes late. There are lots of shoppers today in Diagon Alley, so I assume Muggle London is the same way. Have much success? Did you, um, find lots of good things?" she asked with interest, rising up to peer over the table at the bags sitting opposite her.
Harry laughed and shook his head. "You'll ruin Christmas," he warned, reminiscent of Molly. "Never you mind what I bought. I will show you what I got for your Dad though." He rummaged carefully through the bags and produced a box with a friendly looking Muggle pictured on it, who was apparently named George Foreman. His round face bore a wide grin and he held a small object in his hands.
"What is it?" Ginny asked, a bewildered expression forming on her face.
"It's a grill, you know, to grill meat. It's evidently all the rage among Muggles, especially across the pond."
"Hmm," Ginny stated matter of factly, tilting her head to take in the grill. "Well, it's Muggle, so Dad will automatically love it. Tell him it's American and he'll likely go spare." She paused while Harry returned the grill to its proper bag. "So, what else did you get?"
"Nothing you need to be concerned with. I did decide what to get Ron, though," Harry answered changing the subject, and causing Ginny to frown.
"What's that?" she asked, exasperated, folding her arms across her chest and pouting because Harry wouldn't hint at her Christmas gift.
"Cannon's tickets. What do you think? Good idea?"
Ginny nodded eagerly and finally let her face warm into a smile. "I'm sure Hermione will love that, too: Peace and quiet on a Saturday without the Wireless blaring the match. Oh, I've found something for the boys, too."
"You did? Oh," Harry replied, sounding disappointed. His head drooped a little and he looked at the dusty floor of the pub.
"I didn't buy it, yet," Ginny admitted, reaching out to raise Harry's chin so she could look into his eyes. "So, you can still come into the toy shop with me, all right?" Her voice had been conciliatory and now her lips were pressed tight, as if she were holding back a smile.
A smile slowly spread across Harry's face and Ginny could see him blush warmly, his facereflected in the light of the crackling embers popping and burning in the fireplace.
"OK," Harry conceded, leaning in to kiss Ginny, when Tom, the bartender, appeared at the side of the table.
"What can I get you kids?"
"Oh!" Ginny replied, startled and embarrassed by the interruption. "What's, erm, the special tonight?"
"Steak and kidney pie," Tom answered, a soft, airy, whistling sound escaped his toothless grin when he spoke.
"We'll take two... and some Butterbeers, please," Ginny ordered, smiling brightly at the older gentleman.
As soon as Tom turned his back, Ginny grabbed Harry by the shoulders, pulled him toward her, and planted a firm kiss on his lips. It caught Harry off guard, and his body reacted as such, slightly rigid and stiff, but immediately, he melted into Ginny's arms. He reached up to caress her cheeks with the backs of his hands, feeling the warmth emanating from the fire, warming her freckled skin. He smiled against her lips, causing her to break the kiss.
"What's so funny?" she asked, breathing against his skin.
"Nothing. I just find it amazing that you always know just what I need," Harry answered, brushing the pads of his thumbs across her cheekbone.
"And don't you forget it," she teased.
Harry knew he never would again.
Over dinner, the duo discussed their plans for the Holidays.
"Make sure to invite Remus; Mum's already planned on him coming," Ginny reminded Harry between bites.
"Already done; I Owled him this morning. He said he'd be delighted to come over and thanked us all for the invitation."
"I think my family is getting too big," Ginny sighed.
"Nah, I like it," Harry admitted. "I don't think it matters how many people are in a family, just that you all care about each other, respect each other, and love one another. Your family has all that."
"We aren't perfect, Harry," she contradicted.
"I know," Harry admitted with a twinge of disappointment. "It's just that you're all so amazing. You all have what I always wanted. I already know you know this, but be thankful for the family you have; be thankful you all survived the war. I know you felt alone, sometimes, growing up, but be thankful you didn't endure the childhood and the Christmases I did."
Ginny smiled encouragingly. "I know, Harry. I promise, as long as we're together, I'll be thankful for all that I have, thankful for you, and I'll make every Christmas better than the last."
Harry and Ginny left the Leaky Cauldron after finishing dinner, their hands full of packages. Dusk had turned to evening and the soft glow of candles and lanterns illuminated the storefronts and the slushy cobblestone path beneath their feet. Piles of snow were mounded around the lampposts and along the curbing. Snow fell slowly in large, heavy flakes, reflecting the lantern light like glitter. Smells vaguely like hot chocolate and cinnamon glazed walnuts werewafting all the way down from the candy shop next to the ice cream parlour.
Ginny smiled and pulled on the mittens and hat she had knitted herself. She swung ahandmade scarf around her neck and watched Harry wiggle his fingers into his dragon-hide gloves and brush the snow-speckled hair from his eyes.
He reciprocated Ginny's smile and wrapped an arm around her shoulders. Ginny returned the sentiment by looping her arm around Harry's waist and rested her head against his shoulder as they set off toward the toyshop.
Ginny giggled happily as Harry teasingly steered her toward large snow banks and unwitting shoppers as they trudged down the wet, slushy path.
"Will you just give me a hint or two?" she pleaded, looking up at Harry and batting her eyelashes.
Harry laughed aloud. "You never quit. It depends. Ask me a 'yes or no' question and I'll tell you."
Her eyes widened in excitement. "Um, is it something I can use?"
Harry wrinkled his nose. "Sort of? You can definitely use it, but it's fun, too."
"Fun? Is it pretty? Do I wear it?"
"Yeah, it's pretty, and yes, you wear it."
Ginny finally stopped abruptly and scowled. "It's not one of those pink, woolly, flowery jumpers, is it? My grandparents always used to get me one when I was a little girl and I hated it."
Harry pasted a crestfallen look on his face. "Damn, you guessed it," he answered, unable to keep the smile from twitching at the corners of his mouth.
"Oh, shut up, you prat," Ginny scolded, playfully nudging Harry's arm. "I've known what I was getting you for six long weeks now, and I wouldn't give you a hint if you gave me a galleon."
"What about a kiss?" Harry asked, raising one eyebrow.
"Try me," Ginny replied, puckering her lips.
Harry paused for a moment, savouring the feeling of being out and about with Ginny, without the press hounding him, without the suspicion of some heinous act, only irking the other shoppers by standing in the middle of the street. He leaned down slowly and pressed a brief kiss to Ginny's chilled lips. "Did it work?" he asked.
Ginny put a finger to the side of her mouth and paused. "Um, nope, but I love you anyway," she declared, looking up at Harry through the fluffy flakes of falling snow.
"And I love you," Harry returned, pulling Ginny closer, and watching the snow polka dot her coppery red hair before melting.
"Harry?" A new voice shattered their intimacy.
Harry recognized the soft, breathy voice immediately. He turned away from Ginny to face the woman standing before them. They had been enraptured by one another and hadn't been paying attention up ahead of them. Now there was nowhere to hide, no way to avoid the inevitable.
"Hello, Olivia."
Olivia Ollivander stood in front of them, in a black dragon-hide cloak draped around her shoulders and a matching beret on her head. Her bright blue almond-shaped eyes sparkled and her smile stretched from ear to ear. "How are you?"
Harry felt Ginny loosen her grip on his waist as she lifted her head from his shoulder. Her eyes fell sadly to the ground. "I'm, er, we're fine," he replied strongly, setting the packages down before tightening his hold on Ginny, pulling her in front of him and wrapping his arms around her waist.
"Wonderful," she purred; if possible, her grin widened. "I read in the Quibbler that the two of you got back together. I knew you would," she admitted, finally making eye contact with Ginny. "I'm sorry if I did anything to delay your reunion. There was nothing between us, you know; he loved you; I could see it; I could tell."
Olivia seemed genuine, and Ginny bit her lip and nodded slowly. "Thank you."
"Er, how are you?" Harry asked, not wanting to delve into the particulars of his and Olivia's relationship.
"Well, thanks. I've met someone, a very nice man," Olivia admitted, blushing a shade of red that Harry only associated with Weasley shyness.
"That's good, then," Harry answered nervously, momentarily removing one of his hands from Ginny's waist to push up his glasses.
"Yes, he's a complete gentleman; he works hard, and treats me like a princess. We met when I went to India on Holiday in October."
Harry wondered what kind of bloke could make Olivia Ollivander blush like a schoolgirl. This woman seemed to have an appetite that no man could satisfy. "I'm happy for you, Olivia."
"Thanks, I'm really happy for the first time in a very long time." She seemed to get a bit teary and nostalgic for a moment. "Oh, I'm sorry for keeping the two of you. You're probably buying Christmas gifts for your godsons. I've got to meet someone at the Leaky Cauldron, anyway. Look," she added as an afterthought. "I know the two of you will be happy; you belong together; I can just sense it. The best of luck to you both. Happy Christmas."
"Happy Christmas," Harry and Ginny replied in unison, surprised there had been no tears, arguments, or other disasters. Olivia seemed no less of a minx, of course, but her amorous intentions seemed to be directed toward a man who really cared for her and someone she seemed to be happy with.
"That was strange," Ginny admitted, watching Olivia walk toward the Leaky Cauldron.
Harry nodded in agreement. "I don't really know Olivia, but she deserves someone nice; she lost her husband a few years ago."
"She did?" Ginny asked, stunned at Harry's remark.
"Yes, she told me that the night I left her. Her apartment is decorated with pictures of him."
"Oh," Ginny replied vaguely, amazed she had never thought more of Olivia than as a scarlet woman, but she was probably had been hurt and looking for acceptance and someone to fill the void and the absence of the man she loved, just to be free of the loneliness and the depression that ate away at her day after day. Just like Ginny had. "I didn't have any idea."
Harry shrugged, retrieving his packages and looping an arm around Ginny again. "There's no way you could have known, don't worry."
"Olivia, wait!" Ginny called out, turning on her heels to face the Leaky Cauldron.
Harry turned around after her. "Gin, what are you doing?" he demanded.
"I need to tell her something," Ginny returned, handing Harry the few bags she carried.
Olivia turned around and carefully began stepping through the slush on the cobblestone. "Yes?" she replied hesitantly, extending her arms out to keep her balance. She raised her eyebrows sceptically.
"I- " Ginny didn't know exactly what to say. She looked between Olivia, who looked suspicious, and Harry, who held all their Christmas packages and wore an utterly bewildered expression on his face. "I, um, wanted to apologize. I've misjudged you, and I want you to know that I don't harbour any ill will toward you."
Olivia's face gently warmed into a smile. "Thank you, Ginny. I appreciate that. Harry's yours, he always has been; you've always had his heart. He is a gentleman and he cares deeply for you. The two of you will be happy. You'd have to be blind not to see it."
Ginny bit her lip and looked over her shoulder at Harry, who was smiling genuinely and adoringly at her. "I know," she answered, turning back around. "I am a lucky girl."
"No," the voice behind her contradicted. "I'm the lucky one."
Olivia grinned. "Good luck to you, and thank you, Ginny."
Olivia hurried off down the alley, hopping over puddles and dodging between holiday shoppers.
"You're amazing. I've always said that." Harry watched Ginny shake her head in disagreement and he knew she would never see herself the way he saw her. "C'mon, Red, let's get to that toy store."
Christmas morning dawned as one of the most beautiful winter days Harry had ever noticed. Snow had fallen heavily during the night and coated the bare tree limbs like a great white jumper. The evergreens were no longer teal blue, rich hunter or cheerful kelly green; they were varying shades of icy blue, silvery grey, and pure white. The cold precipitation glittered and glistened on the trees and blanketed the ground and the nearby cottages in virginal white purity. It was like a clean slate or an empty artist's canvas. The only colour was from the grey swirls of smoke emitted by chimneys all over the countryside.
Though his feet burned with cold and goose bumps covered his bare chest, Harry could not turn away from idyllic beauty of nature in front of him. He couldn't imagine that heaven itself could look any more beautiful.
Harry inhaled deeply, the cold air stung his lungs and his breath caught in his chest. He was standing at a precipice of his life. And this new dawn could not have been a more perfect beginning in his mind.
Embers popped loudly in the fireplace, startling him from the majestic view from his bedroom balcony. He sighed satisfactorily and returned to the thresh-hold of the door. His eyes fell upon Ginny, stretched out gracefully in his sinfully large bed. Her body slumbered peacefully in the middle of the mattress, and her head rested softly on the fluffy pillows. Her hair stood out in stark contrast to the sheets and was currently splayed behind her like an advancing grassfire.
Harry smiled, thinking that the most beautiful thing he had ever seen lay inside this room, not outside it, as he had previously thought. He quietly closed the doors behind him and padded across the room to the bedside and lay back down next to Ginny. He swept the stray locks of hair away from her face and gently drew the back of his hand down Ginny's cheek. Harry marvelled that not even an hour before, he had awoken in a tangle of limbs after fulfilling his wish to make love to Ginny in front of a roaring fire on his bearskin rug. When he had arisen, Harry scooped up Ginny, laid her in bed, and covered her unclothed body while he stepped outside.
Ginny stirred against the soft touch of his hand and inhaled sharply. Harry leaned down and left a trail of kisses from her temple to her neck beneath her ear. "Morning love, Happy Christmas."
"Mmm," Ginny mumbled, tilting her head back so Harry could have easier access to the tender skin there.
"I'm sorry to wake you already," Harry breathed against her skin, "but we're due at your Mum's for presents soon."
"Presents?" she asked with a childlike innocence, letting her eyes blink open and raising her head off the pillow.
"Yes, presents," Harry answered. "Don't you want them any more?"
"I have you," Ginny declared, guiding Harry's face up so their eyes could meet.
"Does that mean I can return your gift then?" he teased, kissing the freckle in the centre of her nose.
"Do it and die, Potter. I love Christmas presents," she answered sternly, reaching down to pinch the bare skin above Harry's waist.
Harry laughed aloud and took Ginny's hands in his. "I love you, Gin; Happy Christmas." He intertwined their fingers and caught her lips in a kiss, silently vowing to give Ginny the best Holiday Season he could.
"Happy Christmas, dears!" Molly shouted as Harry and Ginny Apparated into the living room at the Burrow.
"Hello, Mum, Happy Christmas," Ginny responded, setting the packages down by the Christmas tree before kissing her mother on the cheek.
"Good morning, Harry; Merry Christmas, dear."
"Thank you, Mrs Weasley; you, too," Harry answered, receiving a kiss on his cheek, too.
The living room was full of redheaded Weasley's and their significant others. Harry was glad to see Remus; Holidays felt familial when he was around. He reminded Harry that his own parents and Sirius were probably celebrating Christmas somewhere, thinking of them, just as he and Remus remembered James, Lily, and Sirius.
Peyton Weasley attached himself to Ginny immediately as she and Harry made the rounds throughout the room, greeting everyone and wishing them all a Happy Christmas.
Harry gestured for Ginny to take the only open seat in the room and sat on the floor at Ginny's feet. Ginny played little games with Peyton and sang little Christmas songs to the toddler.
Ron and Hermione arrived last with their twins. Hermione instantly shed her cloak and handed Liam to Harry so he could free the baby of his outdoor winter garments. Hermione hurried off to the kitchen, leaving Ron to wrestle with Benjamin and a sack full of Christmas gifts.
"Bloody hell, Hermione, I don't have four damn hands, you know."
"Language, Ronald," came the reply from the kitchen.
"Here, Ronniekins, we'll take him," Fred and George offered in unison, freeing Ron of his squirming burden.
Harry pursed his lips, holding back his laugher, sure, that when Ron and Hermione got their precious baby back he'd have sprouted wings, horns, and an elephant's trunk. He set aside Liam's cloak and held the baby on his knees to see the excitement ensuing in the living room.
Hermione and Mrs Weasley returned from the kitchen and Mrs Weasley announced it was time to open presents. Ginny set Peyton at Penny and Percy's feet to see if the shy little boy would tear into the mounting pile of gifts in front of him. Ron ended up with both of his twins on his lap and a pile of gifts in front of him he couldn't see over.
Hermione had received a Muggle camera from her parents on Christmas Eve and washappily clicking pictures to show her family while trying to avoid her father-in-law, who had already taken a picture of himself, but was still fascinated by the camera. Bill, who Harry was surprised to learn had dabbled in Wizarding Photography, took some pictures, as well.
Ginny wiggled excitedly in her chair, anticipating Harry's present. Harry, of course, had orchestrated that she would receive his gift last. The sound of torn paper, laughter, gasps of excitement, and rattling boxes filled the air and heightened the cheer in the room.
Bill and Fleur handedout the best gifts, by far. Each couple, Harry and Ginny included, received identical Christmas ornaments- a white baby bootie.
"Does this mean what I think it means?" Mrs Weasley asked tearfully, daintily dangling the ornament from her fingers.
"Oui, Molly, we are expecting a baby," Fleur answered, blushing a perfect Weasley red and stealing a glance at her husband.
The room erupted in squeals, laughter, and tears. Everyone jumped out of their seats to congratulated Bill and Fleur. Bill's brothers all slapped him on the back while the women in the room rubbed Fleur's practically nonexistent belly. Harry did not care if he didn't receive another gift; he felt simply privileged to be a witness to this growing family.
Mr Weasley was thrilled to receive his grill and invited everyone to attend an indoor barbecue on New Year's Eve. Arthur gave Harry the slightest head nod, and a smile. Harry knew this dinner had a two fold purpose: using the new grill and it would ensure everyone was at the Burrow on New Year's Eve when Harry proposed to Ginny. Harry blushed and tried, to no avail, not to smile back.
Ron squealed, startling the babies into tears when he opened the box from Harry and Ginny- a stack of tickets to the Chudley Cannons' games. Hermione and Ginny had to comfort the crying children while Ron picked up Harry and jumped up and down, tears streaming down his face.
Harry wasn't concerned that he had not opened anything, figuring Ginny was up to the same silliness he was, and happily watched those around him tearing pretty paper off boxes. The younger set of twins weren't sure what to make of anything, but generally liked all the fuss made over them. Harry and Ginny's gift pleased both parents, a projector that displayed images on the walls or ceilings- anything from educational slides to Quidditch formation- educational, yet fun.
Harry smiled as some of his last gifts were doled out, including his own to Hermione, Mrs Weasley, and Ginny.
Ginny clapped excitedly when Harry finally presented her with a small, square box. He knew Ginny was probably expecting her engagement ring back and hated the thought of disappointing her, but wanted desperately to surprise her since he had been the one who had been surprised that past July. Dean had proposed at Christmas, in front of the entire family, pressuring her into a situation she didn't feel comfortable in. Harry was not about to do that and did not want to remind her of that on Christmas day.
Ginny jumped out of her chair and extended her hands out toward Harry. "Wait!" she exclaimed, just before tearing into her gift. "I want you to have yours at the same time. Close your eyes," she instructed.
Harry made himself comfortable on the floor, leaning up against Ginny's chair for lumbar support and closed his eyes.
The conversation around him quieted, but did not cease. The whispers all around him made him apprehensive and excited. He had no idea what Ginny had planned. As he sat in the hushed company, he could finally hear Ginny's snicker.
"Ready? Don't open them yet," Ginny replied quickly, in a singsong voice.
"Yeah, I'm ready," Harry admitted curiously, wondering what he was admitting to beready for.
"OK, then, open your eyes."
Harry opened just one eye fearfully, but was instantly relieved. In front of him was the small, furry, face of a black puppy. The pup had a shiny black nose, dark eyes, and one ear that flopped over, while the other pointed upward. His shaggy black fur reminded Harry instantly of Sirius in the form of Padfoot.
"Oh my-"
"Like him?" Ginny asked from where she knelt down on the floor in front of Harry.
"Like him? He's adorable. Where did you get him?" he asked, breaking into a smile and taking the small puppy from Ginny.
Ginny beamed when the little dog began eagerly licking Harry's face. "When I checked in on a patient for a post partum visit, I learned that the family's dog was in labour and not having an easy time of it. I stayed and as soon as I saw this little runt, well, he reminded me of another black dog we used to know and love."
The dog blinked at Harry with round, gentle, sweet brown eyes and nudged Harry's cheek with his wet, shiny nose.
"You've got competition, Ginny!" one of the twins yelled from the back of the room. Harry paid the voice no attention, but looked down at his new puppy. "Hullo," he whispered, causing the puppy's folded ear to perk up as the dog continued to lick his face.
"He's a German Shepherd-Flat Coated Retriever mix. He'll probably stay a bit scruffy and all black, as well. What will you call him?"
Harry swallowed the lump in his throat and watched the puppy's tail wag. "I don't know what to call him," he answered, looking into a strangely familiar furry face.
"That's OK." Ginny shrugged. "Take a few days and think it over. He'll understand," she teased, reaching out to stroke the little dog's head.
"We knew Ginny was giving you the puppy, Harry, and we decided to get you this," Hermione said, alerting Harry that there were others in the room.
He pushed his glasses up on the bridge of his nose. "Right, sorry, everyone." Harry took what was undoubtedly a wrapped book from Hermione. The dog nestled in his lap as Harry tore the paper off the present. Wilda Wolfgang's Guide to a Wizard's Tail Wagger; 3rd Edition.
"Wilda Wolfgang? I know her, she's a- well, you know... very nice woman, most of the time. She's trained dogs for several years, Harry," Remus interjected, looking fondly upon the dog.
"Excellent. Thanks, guys."
Each of Harry's subsequent gifts was dog related. A hand knitted jumper with a black dog on it, and a mini jumper for the dog from Mrs Weasley, who argued a young pup would be chilled on his 'constitutionals'. Various collars, leashes, bowls, food, toys, and treats from everyone else fulfilled all of Harry's basic canine needs. He did not remember a Christmas so exciting ever in his life.
"Oh, but wait- your gift!" Harry said, remembering Ginny's excitement. He suddenly felt an overwhelming guilt. Ginny had given him an amazing and fun gift, and he knew she was expecting something really special too. He knew a part of her was not only hoping for, but also expecting her engagement ring. "Open yours." It just so happened that Mrs Weasley and Hermione began opening theirs from Harry at the same time.
Ginny still knelt in front of Harry and quickly discarded the paper to reveal the same small, square blue box from the jewellery store that her engagement ring had come from. Ginny blushed and smiled as she cracked open the box.
A chorus of 'oohs' and 'ahhs' circled around the room as the similar gifts were uncovered.
"Oh, Harry!" Mrs Weasley and Hermione gasped, causing Ginny to look up and over her shoulder.
All three women had a pair of earrings in their respective birthstone: Sapphire for Hermione,opal for Molly, an peridot for Ginny.
"Oh, Harry, they're beautiful!"
"You shouldn't have!"
Ginny smiled. "Thank you." She felt hurt and knew it was not justified. She had done a little research after she'd received her engagement ring in the blue box with the white ribbon. She had been able to discover the Muggle jewellery store was among the most expensive around, and the earrings in her hand were probably the most expensive thing she owned, but somehow she couldn't help but feel slighted. It was unwarranted; she knew those earrings were expensive and had been chosen for her specifically, bust she had been expecting something else; something like her engagement ring, not something identical to what Harry got her mother and her sister-in-law. Things had been going so well between them, and Ginny was sure Harry was going to propose. He had hinted at it in both word and deed; Ginny had had such high hopes. She didn't want to seem ungrateful; she did not focus on material possessions, so why was she now?
Harry felt a pang of guilt when he looked at Ginny's face. Clearly, she was disappointed. Was he wrong not to propose on Christmas? He truly had not meant to hurt her feelings. He'd only wanted to distract her and present her with an exciting surprise later on in the week. Instead, he was sure he'd ruined the Christmas of the one person he cared for most in the world.
All through dinner, Harry tried to decide what to do. Molly was already making plans for the New Year's Eve Dinner Barbecue that was to take place. Everyone offered to bring the side dishes and desserts, except Fred and George, who offered to bring fireworks.
Harry really, terribly wanted some advice, but Mr and Mrs Weasley were the only ones who knew. If he spoiled the surprise and asked Ron for advice, he would be wishy-washy and probably recommend he ask Hermione (after he told her, Fred, George, Tonks, and Merlin only knew whom else.) He didn't want to spoil Bill and Fleur's happy news, either, so Harry brooded silently.
Eventually, when the table was being cleared and Ginny was helpingHermione and Penny put the boys down for a nap, Harry took his new puppy outside.
Harry stood on the patio with his hands stuffed in his pockets as the new dog nosed through the fluffy, fresh snow. A noise behind Harry caused him to turn. "Oh, hi, Mr Weasley."
"Anything wrong, Harry?"
"Yes, Mr Weasley, Ginny seems to be really irked with me about her Christmas gift and-"
"You're wondering if you should just give her the ring now, right?" Mr Weasley asked, matching Harry's stance.
"Yeah!" Harry answered in disbelief. Finally, here was a man who understood women. Granted, he didn't really want to share everything about he and Ginny with Mr Weasley, but still... "How'd you know?"
"Well, Harry, believe it or not, it took me several triesto ask Molly to marry me. I was so nervous I was sick. I knew Molly was worried and nervous, but I wanted to do it right, not because of obligation. Molly deserved my strength and my confidence, and I didn't want her to think I'd put something together out of pity. Five, fifteen, fifty years from now, Ginny will still remember your proposal."
Harry looked up from the ground to Mr Weasley's face; he looked happy and nostalgic. "Thanks," Harry replied.
"Anytime, Harry. Have you decided what you'll name your puppy yet?"
Harry's eyes returned to the runty little dog whining at his feet. "Not yet. I'm going to think about it for a few days, to make sure it's a name befitting of him- and Sirius, too."
Ginny had said very little since the opening of Christmas gifts and dinner, but she had concluded, Harry supposed, in her own mind that she would return to Rose-Tree with him that night.
Harry had gone downstairs to give Dobby, Winky, Jo-Jo, and Gabby their gifts, which turned out to be quite an ordeal, and had returned back to the sitting room, no longer finding Ginny or the puppy.
He still felt a bit guilty, but knew Mr Weasley was right. Ginny deserved an official proposal, not something botched up. So, he set off in the house to find her. He went from room to room, even stopping in the empty nursery, before trudging up the narrow, winding staircase to the attic.
Despite the fact that it was a chilly December night, Ginny had one of the glass panels in the ceiling open above the telescope and had cast a Bluebell Flame Charm to keep warm. She was curled up on the large, overstuffed couch Harry left up there. The puppy lay, sleeping on the middle of her chest. The puppy's eyes were closed and his little chest rose and fell quickly in sharp contrast to Ginny's. Ginny was absently smoothing her hand down the dog's back.
"You two look comfy," Harry declared, breaking the silence and crossing the creaky floor to sit on the edge of the couch next to Ginny.
"We are," she answered, letting the dog alone and looping an arm around Harry's waist instead.
"Ginny, I- "
"Did you see I put my earrings in?" Ginny asked, retracting her left hand and pulled her hair back to expose her ear. "They're really beautiful," she replied, feeling guilt over her expectations.
"I like your birth stone. You always look good in shades of green. I'm sorry that they were impersonal. I tried."
"They're beautiful and I know they were expensive. My gift to you didn't cost nearly that much."
"Ginny, I don't care about Euros, Pounds, or Galleons. You got me something amazing. I love my gift; every time I see him, I'll remember how much you love me and I'll recall memories of Sirius. I just wish I knew what to call him."
"I have a thought about that," Ginny admitted. "Look through your telescope."
Harry rose and crossed the room. His telescope was already pointed low at the southern horizon. He learned over the instrument and looked into the eyepiece. He squinted one eye and the Dog Star shone brightly. "That's Canis Major."
"Mm hmm. Do you remember who Canis Major and Canis Minor belonged to in mythology?"
Harry made a face as he concentrated. "Gin, it's been awhile."
"Orion," she said with a smile in her voice. "I like that name."
"Me, too," Harry replied, raising an eyebrow in consideration. "You're smart; that's why I keep you around," he teased.
Harry returned to where Ginny and the dog lay, sweetly content. He scratched the little dog between the ears. "Hey, little guy, what do you think of the name 'Orion'? Do you like that?"
The fluffy black pup sleepily opened one eye and looked up at Harry. He yawned with a whine before settling back onto Ginny's chest.
"I think he likes it," Ginny declared, scooting over and making room for Harry to lie next to her.
Harry smiled and lay on his side next to Ginny. "Happy Christmas, Gin."
"Happy Christmas, Harry."
In the days after Christmas, Harry was glad he had not spoiled his New Year's Eve surprise. They needed a fresh start.
Harry and Ginny received a subpoena to testify at the trial of Dean Thomas before the Wizengamot. They learned from Luna Longbottom that Dean's son was named Bronson, and his mother, Mallory, did not remember Dean at all, as well as several months of her life, but suffered no lasting damage. If Dean were found guilty, he'd be sentenced to eighteen months to two years in Azkaban.
Harry wanted to give Ginny the New Year she deserved and began to plan what he might say when he actually proposed. He wanted to fulfil her every dream and expectation. She meant so much to him, and he could not imagine spending a day without her. Harry had never kept such a big secret, since he had learned about the Prophecy, and he was eager for the time when the secret could be revealed. He had been in cahoots with Molly and arranged to come over New Year's Eve Day to prepare while Ginny helped Hermione at home.
By late afternoon, Harry, Molly, and Arthur had transformed the Burrow into a winter wonderland. Orion helped by destroying half of what they had originally done, forcing them to redo some of the decorations. Snow continued to fall through a heated barrier they had created around the backyard. The Muggle Christmas lights Arthur had rigged up in the trees still shone in a rainbow of colours. It no longer felt cold, but itlooked it. Harry had borrowed some fairies from Hogwarts, who flitted inside the barrier, casting a glittering light over the yard. It seemed silly to say, but Harry thought it just looked magical.
The twins, accompanied by Angelina and Katie, were the first to arrive. The twins were always up for a little decorating and soon, they had charmed some of their more extravagant fireworks to linger throughout the barrier. There were purple and silver shooting stars, gold and red flower chains, and sparklers that wrote out Happy New Year! and 2003 and an advertisement for Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes.
Angelina and Katie took to the kitchen and began bringing the food out to a long table on the patio as Bill and Fleur arrived. Fleur took one look at the smorgasbord of food and turned green before she clenched her stomach and ran for the loo. Charlie and Kat arrived just as Ron, Hermione, and Ginny Apparated in with the twins.
"Wow! This really looks great, good job," Ginny beamed, gazing at her surroundings.
"Erm, thanks," Harry said, blushing. "I only helped, though." Seeing Ginny made him nervous at his upcoming proposal.
"Regardless," Ginny responded. "I love it; don't be so modest." She pecked Harry on the nose and smiled. "C'mon, let's go see if we can help in the kitchen."
Some well-placed lanterns and the fairys' light illuminated the patio as the family crowded around the table for a late supper.
Mr Weasley did an excellent job of grilling on his new George Foreman grill. He had prepared sausages along with steak and vegetable kebabs, while the rest of the family hadbrought corn on the cob, salads, potatoes, and more desserts than Harry had seen outside of Hogwarts. Orion whined at Harry's feet until he slipped the dog a piece of steak from his kebab. He hoped Mrs Weasley hadn't noticed.
They sat around the table, laughing, talking, and noshing on food late into the evening. Harry heard stories about growing up Weasley that he had never heard before. He hadn't been watching the clock and forgot the nervousness that had consumed him earlier in the evening, but when he finally consulted the pocket watch Ginny had given him for his housewarming, he felt alarmed.
What if I say something stupid? What if I get tongue-tied? What if, Merlin forbid, she says 'no?'
Harry reached out in front of him, downed the remainder of his glass of wine, and wiped his mouth on the back of his hand.
"Harry?" Ginny laughed. "Are you all right?" Her hand rested lightly on Harry's thigh, causing him to jump.
The table was suddenly silent and all eyes fell upon Harry.
"Oh, I'm, er, fine. Just fine," he answered, thinking how close Ginny's hand was to the wedding ring in his pocket. He did not want to spoil the surprise now.
Mrs Weasley noticed Harry's apprehension and took pity on him. "Oh my stars!" she gasped, looking at her own watch. "We'd better get this mess cleared away or we'll miss the New Year!"
Everyone scrambled from the table but Harry and Mr Weasley. Harry slowly pushed himself away from the table and coaxed Orion out toward the heated barrier surrounding the Weasley home. He watched him play as the snow fell heavily on the trees in the orchard and he took a deep breath.
"You'll be fine, Harry," Mr Weasley suddenly said from behind Harry. "I don't think she has any idea," he added with a smile.
Harry tried to smile, but it ended up looking pained or confused. He only nodded instead.
"I'll herd everyone else inside and give the two of you some privacy."
"Thanks," Harry whispered hoarsely.
Mr Weasley was the closest thing he'd ever know as a father. He had looked out for him, counselled him, taken on financial cost of Harry's visits growing up, and had given him somewhere to stay at several points during his life. Mr Weasley was a good man, and Harry knew he'd make a fair and good father-in-law. He only hoped he could be half the man Arthur Weasley was.
"Best of luck."
Harry nodded again and consulted his pocket watch. It was 11:45- his time had come.
He turned and faced the house. Mr Weasley was still striding across the snowy lawn and Ginny was nowhere to be seen. Ron waved at him from the patio and Harry couldn't help but smile back. He and Ron would finally be brothers- in marriage, at least. He was sure that Ron didn't know how much he had meant to him over the years. Sure, they'd had rough patches, all friends do, but nevertheless, Ron always had backed Harry. Ron was the last person Harry thought would have supported a relationship between himself and Ginny, but that comment on the train ride after the fiasco at the Department of Mysteries had hit Harry like a ton of bricks. Just choose someone better next time. It still made Harry laugh.
Harry was sure Ron would be peeved with him for not confiding he was about to propose to Ginny, but Harry hoped Ron would get over it. It was something he needed to do on his own besides, Ron could never keep a secret.
He watched Ron go in the house, levitating a stack of dishes ahead of him. Hermione, Ginny, and Percy ducked out at the same time.
"C'mon, Pokey, you'll miss Celestina Warbeck's Countdown to Midnight."
Harry swallowed with difficulty. "Come here," he instructed, inclining his head toward the rear of the yard.
Ginny carefully manoeuvred the dishes to her other hand and stepped off the stone patio.
Harry sighed and laughed to himself. "Gin, put the dishes down."
"Oh," Ginny blushed. "Right, sorry. Is something wrong, Harry? You're acting strangely tonight."
"Yes, no- I don't know," Harry answered, running his hand through his hair and watching Orion tear off after a fairy that was skimming the snow-covered ground.
"Do you know what I did when I couldn't sleep at St. Mungo's?"
Ginny shook her head. "No."
Harry looked at her face reflected in the fairy light. Her brown eyes were wide with a curious innocence. He smiled, unable to restrain himself, took her face between his hands, and kissed her. The kiss caught her off guard, and she inhaled deeply when Harry lowered his mouth over hers. She moaned softly and melted into him, looping her arms around his neck.
Harry pulled away and brushed the flyaway strands of red hair away from her face. "I used to go to the Birthing Ward and look at the babies through the big windows. The Dursleys were never family to me; I was a nuisance and nothing more, and I know it wasn't right, but that's what family was to me."
"Oh, I know, Harry," Ginny sympathized.
"No, wait... and then I met your family and everything changed. Your family just opened their arms and the front door and welcomed me in. I'd never known anyone like that in my life. You all are family and the more time I've spent with you, the more I realized I wanted a family of my own," he paused, looking down at Ginny, monitoring her expression.
"So, last June when I stood in front of those babies, I knew that was what I wanted- a family."
"Oh, Harry," Ginny cooed. "It will happen someday."
"No. Someday is for other people, not me, not anymore. I decided at that moment in the hospital that I would ask you to marry me, and when I got out of St. Mungo's, I bought your ring."
Overwhelmed with guilt and a series of bad memories, Ginny let her head droop and she stared at the ground. "I'm so sorry; if I could do it all over again, I would."
"I don't care about that anymore, love. I don't want to relive it, but it has amplified and strengthened my love for you." He reached out and lifted her chin with the knuckle of his index finger. "We have a love worth fighting for, a love that won't die, anda love I won't take for granted any more."
Ginny smiled and blinked deliberately at Harry's touch. "You're an amazing man; I wish you saw that about yourself."
Harry knew he had mere minutes before midnight. "I've fallen head over heels in love with an amazing woman, and if, by default, that makes me amazing, too, so be it."
Harry closed his eyes and blew out a deep breath. He wiggled his fingers and shook them out before he stuck one hand in his pocket, wrapping it around the jewellery box. "Close your eyes," he commanded.
Ginny frowned lightly and looked at Harry sceptically before obliging.
"Now, I know you were a little disappointed in your Christmas gift, and I'm very sorry, but I did that on purpose."
Ginny's scowl deepened, but she did not open her eyes.
"I knew what I wanted to get you for Christmas, but I wanted you to be completely caught off guard, and I didn't want to compete with bad memories. So I got you the earrings instead."
He ruffled up the back of his hair with his free hand as he retrieved the familiar looking, blue jewellery box from his pocket. As quietly as he could, he opened the box and knelt down on his right knee. He took the ring out and set the box aside. Orion padded over to investigate the box, which stood out in the stark white snow. Wandlessly, Harry levitated the newly engraved platinum engagement ring up to Ginny's eye level and paused to swallow. "OK, open your eyes."
Her eyes slowly fluttered open and they darted from the space where Harry had previously been standing, down to where he now knelt, to the familiar ring floating in front of her.
"Ginny, I can't imagine my life without you and I never want to spend another day without you by my side. Since the day I met you, you have somehow filled the emptiness that had eaten away at me for the majority of my life."
Looking up, Harry could see the tears forming at the corners of her brown eyes and her lips trembling as she bought her hands up to her face.
"Ginny, I was lost without you; I won't lie. I tried finding my own way, but I couldn't do it without your help; I'm not strong enough by myself. I thought I had all the answers. I was lost, lonely, and confused, and only you could make all the pain go away, to make it right. I know I can be stubborn, self righteous, and proud, but I know I will do everything in my power to make you happy and make this work out. I didn't tell anyone besides your parents about this. I didn't want any advice. I wanted to do it all on my own, in my own way, for it to be mine. I am so crazy in love with you and I'm not too proud to say that I would be lost without you. I will love you in this lifetime and in the next. It will not change, fade, or cease. I would die for you, and if you ever leave me, my world as I know it, will end."
Harry extended his hand for Ginny's left hand as he forced the ring to return to his other palm. "Ginevra Molly Weasley, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"
He smiled and looked up at Ginny expectantly, waiting for her to say yes, but the only sound he heard was Ginny's uncontrollable whimpering. Her hand right brushed the falling tears off her face and returned to cover her mouth.
Harry could hear the sound of his own heart pounding loudly in his ears as he waited. He'd never been more afraid in all his life. When he faced Voldemort, there was no time to be scared, but this was terrifying.
She's going to say 'no', you stupid git. She's going to say that you don't deserve her after the horrible things you've said and done to her. She's going to tell you that you were wrong to think that someone like her could ever fall for you. If you want her, convince her.
He continued to look up at her, though tears stung his own eyes. "I got the inside of your ring engraved," he said in a voice barely above a whisper. "It says, 'My one and only.' It's true, there is no one else for me but you."
At his words, Ginny fell to the ground in front of him as her body racked with sobs. After a deep breath, she spoke:
"I only dreamed that I would ever hear those words uttered from your lips, but even in my dreams, they weren't nearly that beautiful. I thought that after last July, I had ruined any chance I ever had of becoming your wife. I have searched my soul, and I know there is no one else in this world for me; if it wasn't you, it would be no one."
Ginny inched her left hand toward Harry's, in which he held the diamond ring. "You're my one and only," she breathed.
A grin finally appeared on Harry's face at the movement of Ginny's hand. He took the ring between his thumb and forefinger and paused at Ginny's fingertip. "So, is that a 'yes', then? Will you marry me?"
Her eyes sparkled behind the veil of tears, but a beautiful smile had graced her face. "Yes, Harry James Potter, I will."
Ginny watched as Harry slipped the ring the symbol of eternity, on her finger. With his other hand, he hesitantly reached for Ginny, slipped his hand behind her neck, and slowly guided her lips to his. She began giggling and tackled him to the ground. Harry smiled when Ginny's lips crashed against his, in a bruising kiss, and her giggles turned into raucous laughter.
Harry stretched out on the cold wet ground, Orion yipping happily around him, and Ginny pressed against his chest. "I love you," she panted against his lips, her hair forming a curtain around them, closing out the rest of the world.
"Not as much as I love you."
Inside the Burrow, Harry could only assume it was Midnight as a great cheer erupted. He shifted Ginny's body and looked up at the house.
It may have been 12:00, Harry did not know, but inside the Burrow, every Weasley face stared out at him and Ginny on the lawn. They were each laughing, crying, or applauding loudly.
George and Fred's timed fireworks exploded overhead, showering the yard in colourful sparks, Orion barked and chased the fairies that zoomed around, and snow covered Harry and Ginny. He laughed and brought Ginny's lips back down to his. He met Ginny's warm lips with his own and gently parted them with his tongue. He caressed her tongue with his own as one solitary tear rolled down his cheek.
Harry broke the kiss and breathed against her lips, "I promise I'll do everything and anything to make you happy. It's a new year, and we're going to make a new life together, and-"
She silenced him with another kiss and smiled. "I know. Happy New Year, Harry."
"Happy New Year, Ginny."
Author's Note: Thanks always goes out to my beta, Karen, for her skills, and to all of you who read and/or review. I appreciate you. Thanks also goes out to Teri Dane who advised a Yankee on British Barbecues. Harry's soliloquy was based on the song "Lost Without You" by Delta Goodrem.