Chapter Four

Celebrations and Will Readings

The next two weeks passed quickly for the three marauders in waiting. Tonks managed to convince Molly to let Ginny stay, and they actually managed to not break the rule. During the day they would discuss things that they wanted to do to people in school, Tonks for the most part agreeing to whatever they wanted to do, but even she liked the idea of turning Draco Malfoy into a ferret. During the evenings, Tonks would read while Harry and Ginny did whatever they felt like doing, so long as they didn't leave. For the most part it was the best two week Harry had ever had. Though there was the day that he faced Sirius' mother's portrait.

Tonks had stumbled one day in the hallway, causing the portrait to wake up. Harry ran to the portrait and began screaming as it insulted Sirius. Suddenly, despite all others efforts to do the same, he reached out and began Ripping the portrait right off the wall. He began destroying the portrait as he screamed words even Tonks wouldn't use most times. When he had finished, there was nothing left of the portrait but bits and pieces of it lying around on the floor. Kreachur, seeing this, died of shock at what had happened. Ginny and Tonks could only watch as Harry fell to the ground and began crying. They both began comforting Harry for the rest of the day. It seemed the picture had awoken memories that he still wasn't ready to face. Poor kid, Tonks thought, He doesn't deserve this much pain. However other than this he didn't seem to feel the pain at all. He seemed oblivious to Grimmauld place. Tonks suspected Ginny was the cause.

As the weeks rolled by Harry realized that Tonks meant it when she said no one would be there for two weeks, however this time was meant to end the day before his birthday, and he hated that. He had grown to like it just being the three of them. He missed having people to play pranks on but it was okay with these two, Ginny, who had become even closer than she was before, and Tonks, who was quickly becoming his best mate. He didn't want this fun to end, but the day the Order would return was only a night away. Tonks had been nice enough to warn him about this, also saying that she would make sure they were nice to him. That night he and Ginny had the talk both were afraid to have.

"Ginny, what are we going to do about your family?" Harry asked. He hated this but the fact was her brothers were extremely overprotective of her.

"Well, we will just tell them and let them think what they want. I don't care what they say, I've been waiting for you to want to be my boyfriend for six years and I'm not giving you up just because they might not like it." Ginny said firmly. It warmed Harry's heart to hear her talk like this.

"You know how dangerous it is? Voldemort will want treat you like a key to get to me. I want to make sure you know everything before you say that you want to be with me." Harry said. Tears began filling in his eyes as he said this.

"Harry, I am always in danger, regardless of what our relationship is. He knows if he takes me you will come. It doesn't matter if I am your girlfriend or just a friend. I know the risk I'm taking. But isn't that what a marauder does? Do what they want and to hell with the risks?" Ginny asked. She began smiling wickedly and Harry could only laugh. She was right of course.

"You're right. Voldemort be damned, the marauders have returned! And I love one of them!" Harry said, then stopped everything. He stared wide eyed at what he had just said.

"Harry did you just say..."Ginny said losing all sense of what to say as he nodded. She knew he wasn't expecting to say that, but also knew he meant it.

"I love you too, Harry Potter." She said quietly. Ginny looked up into his eyes and both of them saw it in the others eyes.

"Well this has been one of our more interesting talks. But I believe we should go in, we will need all the rest we can get for tomorrow. No more just the three of us in this house. C'mon love." Harry said taking her hand, they slowly walked to the house. After a few more jokes and Dinner with Tonks they all agreed it was time for bed. Harry and Ginny convinced Tonks that a prank was in order for the rest of the Order. It was, after all, their return to Grimmauld place. The next day would definitely be interesting.

Harry woke up by having four people enter his room. he looked up to see Serena Black(Tonks' teenage character) bouncing on the bed. She was laughing giddily, while Ginny stood in the corner and glared at her. Hermione and Ron were struck dumb at this sight. Harry however, knew that the games had begun. Harry got prepared for anything. They had no more plans then to have as much fun as possible.

"Serena, what do you want? Its still early, Dobby hasn't even called us for breakfast." Harry said, searching for his glasses. He no longer needed them as Tonks had taken him to a magical doctor and had his eyes fixed. The glasses now had plain glass, this was another part of the prank to come.

"Well, my dear sweet Harry, we seem to have guests today and Dobby is currently waiting on them so I chose to wake you up personally! Now for god sake, brother dear, GET UP AND DRESSED!" She got up and walked to the door, kissing Ron on the cheek, watching him blush and she giggled, "By the way Harry you friends are here. Dumbledore wants us to go to the...well you know, today. Do you think you will be up to it?"

"I believe so, Serena, but I won't know until I'm there. Would you guys please excuse me while I get dressed?" Harry said. It was a hilarious sight, Ron still blushing from Serena's kiss, Hermione glaring at Serena, Serena seemingly oblivious smiling at Ginny, who was grinning mischievously. Yeah Hogwarts, watch out! The new marauders are about! He thought and his grin returned. As they left he jumped out of bed quickly throwing clothes on and heading to breakfast. There he took a seat between Ginny and Serena and began to eat calmly, looking around at the order members made him smile again. It seemed that only two people in the order really knew about this plan besides Tonks. Mrs. Weasley was having a fit at the idea of three teenagers alone in a house. Harry decided to help Tonks out of this one as she became very interested in her food.

"Don't worry Mrs. Weasley, Tonks was always here. She said she had urgent business that couldn't wait was all. She said with all of you coming today and seeing how well we behaved while she was here, she felt she could trust us for one night. However, that didn't stop Moony from popping in from time to time to check on us. Gave me a right start one time, waking me up by apparating in my bedroom. 'If Serena is anything like her father at this age I really don't think I should leave you alone with her' he said. It was really quite annoying, didn't even believe me when I said our relationship was more of the brother and sister type." Harry said, smiling at Remus as he blushed. Moony knows that's one. "And you can trust me we were all on our best behaviour. Well except for the portrait incident, but look at it this way, she doesn't scream anymore, and it killed Kreachur. So at least some good came out of it all" He said the last of it laughing. Mrs. Weasley looked over the three of them, not sure what to make of this. In two week these three had become as inseparable as Harry, Ron and Hermione were. She knew something had changed between Harry and Ginny as well. They kept stealing glances at each other while Serena just rolled her eyes.

"So Serena dear, who is your father that Remus know him so well." Mrs. Weasley asked planning to learn about this.

"Why Sirius Black no less!" Serena said, offended that Mrs. Weasley didn't recognize the resemblance. They all stood quiet at the name and looked at Harry. Harry was smiling at this. Let the games begin.

"Yup, that's right. which is why we are more brother and sister than anything. What would you have me do Moony? Date my godfather's daughter?" Harry said quizzically. God this is so much fun!

"N-no Harry of course not, but the way you lot act its sometimes hard to tell whom is dating whom." Remus said, making Harry blush. So Remus was going to play too. That's ok he could handle it. Apparently Ron couldn't handle it.

"What are you talking about Remus? There were only two girls here Harry could fancy and I know you don't mean-" Ron said, looking between Harry and Ginny. Damnit Remus you could have waited till after breakfast to start this up. Harry thought. "Well out with it Harry. Who are you dating?" Ron said, glaring at him.

"Thanks Moony, you know your timing is horrid. Well Ron we were hoping to wait till you've eaten, but since it has already come up" Harry looked at Ginny, when she nodded at him he continued. "I am dating Ginny." Harry said calmly and began to eat as if it were old hat. Ron, shocked at how everything was being handled just became more angry.

"You will not date my sister Harry Potter! I will not allow it, and neither will my Mum and Dad! So you get that idea out of your head right now and STAY AWAY FROM MY SISTER!" Ron bellowed. Remus, Dumbledore, Serena, and Ginny all winced as they knew what was about to happen. Harry, still looking like this was an everyday occurrence merely smiled at Ron.

"Ron, it is not the issue you are thinking it is. Let all you over protective behavior out then think about this rationally. Remember I'm not the boy who lived to you, and remember that I am just Harry. Never to you have I been Harry Potter. Think about all this before you start to yell at me again mate." Harry said calmly. Everyone's eyes widened as he spoke. Some expecting the worst, some expecting a row, but none expecting this. Ron merely fell back in his seat after hearing this. This isn't supposed to go this way, I yell, the boy gets scared and runs away. Why isn't it working? he thought, because this is Harry, he isn't afraid of anything. I guess there is no use to fight it.

"Ginny is this what you want?" Ron asked her. She beamed at him and nodded quickly. Ron nodded. "Harry if you are a prat to her, I will make you suffer you know."

"Ron, if I act like a prat to her, Ginny and Serena will make me suffer before you. That's a heavy punishment to deal with you know. Serena has her own special curse that seems to be very devastating to a person" Harry said, though smiling he said it in all seriousness.

"Don't worry about Ron, Harry. I've got his measure." Serena said, smiling wickedly at Ron, giving him a wink that caused him to blush again making everyone laugh. Everyone but Hermione. No one noticed but Harry. Well, with Tonks playing matchmaker, maybe she will get those two together after all.

"Miss Weasley, Have you made a decision about your classes yet, or do you need more time?" Dumbledore asked. Most looked curiously at her, but marauders know all secrets.

"Yes Professor Dumbledore. I believe I will join Harry and Serena if it is still ok?" Ginny asked. Ron and Hermione looked confused at this. Harry and Serena beamed at Ginny with grins of all their wicked intention bore on their faces, to which she grinned back at them. Dumbledore sighed upon realizing what had taken place these past few weeks, and knew he was helpless to stop it.

"All right Miss Weasley, I will ask you to watch out for your two friends and make sure they...are not particularly mischievous. Try to keep them more to your brothers realm of pranks. I don't think the world is yet ready for another set of marauders." Dumbledore said, smiling and knowing that she would be of no help in this area. He then looked at Harry. "Harry, It is time we went to the reading of Sirius' will. You must be there as well as Serena being his only living heirs." He said calmly hoping not to upset Harry. Harry just looked at Ginny and smiled at her. "And before you ask, Miss Weasley may go as well. However Ron and Hermione can not take this adventure with you. You know well why it cannot be so please do not argue"

"I understand. Is Moony coming as well?" Harry asked.

"Yes Remus will need to be there as well. Molly is Ginny permitted to come with us?" Dumbledore asked. He could see her restraint to let this happen. Molly knew that this was more for Harry's sake than for Ginny's though. She just nodded to Dumbledore. "Ah, very good indeed. There is a car to take us there. Come children follow me." The children not speaking merely got up and walked right behind Dumbledore.

"God help them, they are going to be worse than the twins." Molly said, shaking her head but laughing all the same.

While they were in the car the children could barely contain their laughter, causing Remus and Dumbledore to laugh as well. These three were willing to go to any lengths to make a prank work. They were also dangerous when they needed to be. It was quite funny to watch them this morning acting like nothing was new knowing none of these people knew anything about the situation.

"Wotcher Albus!" Tonks said, Finally controlling her laughter. "Why did I have to come it was quite fun playing with Ron. That boy never knew what hit him when I started up!" Loosing herself to laughter again.

"Well Nymphadora Since you claimed to be Sirius' daughter, which is surprising that Harry let you do by the way, you must be at the reading." Dumbledore said. "As for Miss Weasley, I thought Harry might need the support of one who cares for him and knew your secret."

"Professor it was my idea for her to be Sirius' daughter. When I saw her change she had so many resemblances to Sirius that she had to be his daughter." Harry said, finally calming down. "Seriously though, Tonks be careful about 'getting Ron's measure' as you put it. Hermione was none to happy with you this morning."

"Hmm, maybe I should play matchmaker again? It worked for you and Ginny. Maybe I can set those two up too, it is my plan after all. Make her jealous enough to tell everything. I'VE GOT IT! Come close." Tonks said. Dumbledore watched amazed as not only did the other two listen to her but were happy to do it. After a few moments of whispering, they all began laughing again. This didn't stop until they reached the Lawyer's office. Shortly after stepping out Harry grew quiet and the other two did as well. It seemed as if they moved in one mind, whether Tonks was herself or Serena, they had bonded in a way Dumbledore had never seen. Ginny took Harry's hand while Tonks put her arm over Harry's shoulders. Together they walked into the lawyers office, knowing Harry would not come out the better of this. Dumbledore and Remus exchanged glances before following them in.

"Albus what happened to those three. They seem to know each other as well as they know themselves. They all act together, even their pain seems to be as real as Harry's" Remus said. This was a confusing situation, yet amazing to see. Nothing like this had ever before passed through any group of friends, not even the marauders were this close.

"Remus I do not know what has happened. However I feel this is good for Harry. He needs people who will not judge him, this day of all days. If you wish for him to come back to you as a friend I would suggest that you do as they are. Be there for him when he needs it, and do not judge him for anything." Dumbledore said. He watched Remus nod as they entered the office behind the three. Dumbledore walked to the secretary telling her that they had arrived and they were quickly taken to a conference room. Harry looked around not really seeing anything, but filing it away for memory later. He sat numbly in the chair they guided him to, Tonks on one side, Ginny on the other. To his surprise Remus stood behind him and put a hand on his shoulder gently. Harry took this as an act of comfort and smiled sadly. It took this day to bring Remus back to acting like himself. A man dressed in a fine suit walked in and looked at the group.

"I apologize for this but I must ask you which of you is Remus Lupin and Harry Potter." He said. He knew but this was a formality that could not be helped.

"I am Harry Potter. The man standing behind me is Remus Lupin." Harry said calmly, not betraying the emotions he felt building up in him.

"Mr. Potter, I need your permission to read this will in front of all but Mr. Lupin. It was a request of Mr. Black that it be this way." He said. Harry nodded and the man continued. "First let me say my name is John Winston. I was Mr. Black's lawyer and as such now I am yours Mr. Potter. The first thing you must know is that Remus Lupin is now your godfather. Mr. Black stated this first in his will. However he left it up to you to choose a godmother and your choice as to who you would allow custody. I must handle that first. I hope you understand."

"I do. You must do you job. For a godmother, forgive me but I have to use your first name, I choose Nymphadora Tonks. While I am in school I will ask that they both have custody. I may wish to change it to them having custody all the time, but for now when I am not in school I choose Nymphadora Tonks to have custody of me. Is that an acceptable term Mr. Winston?" Harry said. Everyone stood shocked, none more than Tonks herself. She became flustered when she heard this.

"Are you sure Harry? I mean there is Molly, Minerva, anyone in the Order would be pleased to be your godparent. Are you sure you want me Harry?" Tonks said. Harry smiled at this.

"Tonks, when everyone thought the worst of me only you chose to listen to me instead of just becoming angry or disappointed with me. I can talk to you easier than anyone else in the Order. I am sure." Harry said. Though it was all said quietly, she felt the emotion in what he was saying. He looked to Remus then. "Moony I want you to understand this. Its not personal. Well, not entirely. I'm just not sure if I'm ready to talk to you about things right now. Our last talk still bears its marks on me I'm afraid." Harry said as quietly to him as when speaking to Tonks.

"I understand Harry. I still feel the pain of that talk as well. When you decide to talk to me I will be here for you. I want you to know that." Remus said. Harry nodded looking back to Mr. Winston. "Please continue sir."

"Well Miss Tonks I will need you to sign some paperwork while I am going over the will, is that a problem?" Mr. Winston said. When Tonks shook her head he handed her a stack of papers to sign. He continued while she was working "Mr. Potter I will now read the will that you have given me permission to read. This is the official part of this meeting. Are you ready Mr. Potter?" When Harry nodded he began.

"I, Sirius Black, being of sound mind and body, Do hereby grant this as my final will and testament.

To Remus Lupin, I leave ten million galleons, which may not seem as much as others, but I also grant you to be godfather of Harry James Potter in the event of my death. This honor alone is worth more than all the money I could give, as I'm sure you will know Remus. I only ask that you let him be a boy while he has the chance, whatever boy he may be. He has earned that right more than any other in this world. Also buy yourself some new robes man! You no longer need a job to get them.

To Molly and Arthur Weasley I leave 30 million galleons, for showing Harry what a family is and letting the boy know love for the first time in his life. I hope they will continue to look after him in my absence, and as such I wish I could give them all of the money in my vaults.

To Albus Dumbledore I leave 50 million galleons, for use for whatever purposes he may have. I ask that you allow Harry into you inner circle, and you know what I mean. With me being gone I will need to know that he will have all the knowledge necessary to prepare for the battle that awaits him. Also look after him while he is in school, as he seems to have picked up quite a few traits of James and I. It would do him good to have someone look after him for me.

To Ronald Weasley I leave five million galleons, so that he may be able to have some fun in life while he and Harry are still young. Also so he may be without the thought that he has no money. I apologize if this sounds bad, but I have heard Harry speak to Ron about things and seen Ron's face fall when mentioning that he does not have the money to do what Harry could do at any time.

To Hermione Granger I leave five million galleons as well. I ask that she continue to help Harry as she always does. This will not be a problem for her I believe. She is a wise witch and will do well in life, and Harry will also, with her help.

To Ginerva Weasley I leave ten million galleons. I apologize for the full name kid, I know you hate it. The reason you well know, even I know. Harry may not still, but I know you do. You may be the one to make the first move, but know that you have my blessing Ginny.

To Nymphadora Tonks, I leave ten million galleons as well. I leave you so little because you are the most like me, and I have a feeling you will also share the honor of being guardian of Harry James Potter. More of an Honor than most could receive Tonks. If he offers this take the responsibility well, and he will love you for it. I hope this is enough dear cousin.

To Harry James Potter, I leave the rest of my estate. At this time that would be close to 300 million galleons, 3 different houses, as well as various amounts of heirlooms and artifacts. I also leave him the keys to the potter family vault and the vault of his parents, James and Lily Potter. The value of those vaults are close to 200 million galleons each. Harry was supposed to receive these as I saw fit, but as I will be dead upon this I think he should have them now. Harry will also receive a house in Godric's Hollow that should be of some importance to him. He will know why so I need not explain. I ask that Harry not blame himself for my death, as I know he will. Unless you killed me yourself, Harry, it was not your fault. If you remember all I have told you about being a marauder, the important thing is we did as we wanted regardless of consequence. I see so much of your father in you that it seems a shame you didn't take up our place in Hogwarts. I also ask you to remember the marauders, regardless of circumstance and to do us all proud. If nothing else give good ole Snivellus hell for me and James. We will be sure to appreciate any pranks you have in you. Have fun with your life Harry, and don't let love pass you by as Remus is trying to do. Live well Harry, only then can you grow to be a good man.

I apologize to any who I forgot. This will was done in quite some haste and I could not mention everyone. I ask that my name be cleared of all charges as I did not betray James and Lily, nor did I kill Peter Pettigrew, or anyone for that matter. Remus Lupin, Harry Potter, Ron Weasley, and Hermione Granger are my witnesses to this entire statement. This being said, I'm off to battle! Ha! Farewell my friends."

When all was said, Harry did not cry as he thought he would. Instead he found himself smiling. This was completely Sirius. Even in death he was always a good man. Harry heard the words said to him and he knew he had made the right decisions. Looking at Remus the mischievous smile returned. Instantly, Remus understood as well and only nodded.

"I promise you Sirius, I will honor your requests. Every last one of them." Harry said. Ginny, Tonks, and Remus heard this and they all smiled. Harry did not blame himself finally. However, he was now more of a marauder than ever before.

"Mr. Potter I need you to sign a few things here. I cannot relinquish what is supposed to be yours until you do. Also the Homes Mr. Black offered you will be yours upon signing these. The closest one from here would be the one on Grimmauld Place, however no address is given. I assume you would know of this one?" Mr. Winston asked. Harry nodded and began to sign the papers. When he and Tonks had finished all the paperwork they both looked at each other and smiled.

"Well Harry it seems Sirius knows you better than I do. I thought you were going to pick Molly. I suppose I should be all motherly now and give you advice and stuff like that?" Tonks said, laughing with him about their new arrangement.

"No Tonks. Your advice can land a bloke in trouble!" Harry said jokingly. "Just keep being the same old Tonks and everything will be fine. Now as my guardian I suppose I should ask you if I can go to Diagon Alley for my birthday tomorrow."

"Well, I guess that would be ok, but me and Remus, and probably a few others will have to go with you. Is that good enough?" Tonks said, still smiling.

"Well ok but two conditions. One I need some new muggle clothes. I'm tired of Dudley's hand me downs that never fit. Two I ask for my friend to be their not the auror who has to watch over me." Harry said. At this Tonks scrunched up her face and became Serena again.

"This more to your liking Harry dear?" She said batting her eyelashes. Harry and Ginny laughed, while Harry nodded his head.

"You know, I think this godmother thing might just work, Tonks." Harry said still laughing.

When they returned to Grimmauld Place, the marauders were still laughing hysterically and joking so much no one knew quite what to make of it. When they reached the kitchen, being just in time for lunch of course, they plopped down in their chairs from that morning smiling as if they never had a care in the world.

"Do I tell them? I think Ginny should do it. However you are his daughter Serena. So who is it to be then?" Harry said laughing.

"Tell us what? " Ron said letting his curiosity get the best of him. Harry smiled at this and winked at Serena.

"Well, Serena kind of fancies you, and she wanted a date tomorrow when we go to Diagon Alley. So what do you say Ron? Fancy a snog with Serena?" Harry said laughing, while Serena punched him playfully on the arm. Ginny lost it right there and fell off her chair laughing. Ron turned a particular shade of red, similar to his mothers, for different reasons of course. Hermione however began glaring at Serena as if she would shoot daggers from her eyes. This only made Harry laugh more.

"Harry stop being like that. You know Serena has better taste than my brother!" Ginny said, pulling herself back into her seat.

"I don't know Ginny he is kind of cute. Definite potential. He could turn out quite nicely with a little help from Harry about how to have fun though." Serena said. Ron turned even more red at this.

"Alright children I'll not have you acting like idiots today! Things may have worked that way when Tonks was here, but its going to be different now!" Mrs. Weasley said. Harry nodded quietly though he was still laughing. "Now what's this about going to Diagon Alley tomorrow?"

"Well, Moony and my godmother said it was all right, and Dumbledore agreed to the terms they had given me. We can go to Diagon Alley as long as at least six order members follow us. Since Ron and Hermione and you and your husband, as well as we three have business there, I figured you would let Ron and Hermione come too." Harry said not breaking his stride once.

"Oh really dear? What business is it that we have in Diagon Alley that you know of? And who is your godmother?" Mrs. Weasley asked. Harry looked at Serena at this question. Serena smiled and nodded.

"Well me and Serena are now under guardianship of Remus and Tonks. Tonks agreed as long as there were Order members, and Moony said at least six. Dumbledore agreed saying we could use some time out of this house, and agreed to the amount of order members. Also we all have to go to Gringotts tomorrow to receive our inheritance. Ron, you and Hermione will be most pleased as are the rest of us already. We can't tell you though. We swore it would be a surprise. It was our final promise to Sirius." Harry said. He did not mention his first promise to Sirius and neither did the other two.

"Oh, really now. Where are Remus and Dumbledore right now?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"Well, Remus is off buying new robes, Dad made him. Dumbledore is, well we don't really know what Dumbledore is doing. They said they would see us tonight at dinner. Remus said we had to have a talk about responsibility or some such thing" Serena said. Grinning she knew she shouldn't say the rest. "However I believe we are quite responsible enough. After all two weeks here with Tonks and nothing bad happened. I suppose we should be all well and fine! Maybe its this Hogwarts business, and the last request of Dad to me and Harry though."

"What did Sirius request of you two? Is it dangerous? What is it?" Ron started shooting off questions. Even Hermione became curious, though shortly after looked at Ron and hit him on the arm.

"Ron I'm not sure if its our business to ask them these things. Maybe it was private. They are after all, his daughter and godson. Perhaps we should ask if they are willing to tell us." Hermione said. This caused Ginny to laugh again spitting out her food this time.

"No Hermione its ok. Nothing too private. The whole school will know soon after we arrive. What Sirius said to us was that we should remember him as we have been doing recently." Harry said, leaving the rest to Serena.

"Yup, he asked us to be the new marauders!" Serena said, still grinning. "Oh and as Harry said, Ron, fancy a date with me tomorrow? Wont be too private of course, but what can you do. Me and Harry are celebrities after all!" laughing as she said this, Ron started to blush. "Unless of course you have you eyes set on another. Perhaps one with bushy brown hair?" Harry couldn't take this anymore and he began laughing hysterically, with Ginny not far behind.

"I CANNOT BELIEVE YOU! HOW CAN YOU SAY HE LIKES ME! HE IS MY FRIEND!" Hermione screamed, standing up with her hands on her waist. This only fueled the fire for Harry and Ginny, both holding each other up to keep from falling on the floor laughing.

"Well I know how I said, but why is because you have been giving me evil looks every time I show a little attention to your 'friend'. So either he fancies you or you fancy him. Which would it be?" Serena said, Harry trying to calm himself looked at Ginny and nodded. It was time to begin this plan.

"Well Serena I can say with some certainty that Ron fancies Hermione." Harry said. "However with the little attention she showed him I was trying to help him get over her. Besides you seemed to fancy him a bit anyway."

"HARRY!" Ron and Hermione both shouted.

"Well I don't know about Ron, he's your best mate after all Harry. But I would put down a bet that Hermione fancies Ron, and more than a bit at that. I'd be careful Serena. She is a strong witch, not one to get on the wrong side of you know." Ginny said, still laughing.

"GINNY!" Ron and Hermione shouted.

"Dear me why are all the good ones taken, Harry? You have Ginny, but I don't fancy you, and now the only other boy our age around here fancies someone else." Serena said pouting making Harry and Ginny laugh yet again. "Well I guess there is no helping it. I suppose I will have to wait till school starts to find someone to fancy. Any cute guys in school?"

"Well Dean Thomas is ok looking. Though I have bias, since Harry is, of course, Harry." Ginny said, kissing Harry on the cheek. Ron and Hermione were left with nothing to argue with, as the three on the other side of the table seemed to have broke into a new conversation entirely.

"What the bloody hell just happened?" Ron asked, to anyone who would listen.

"What do you mean Ron?" Harry asked, laughing as Serena and Ginny began a discussion about who was cute and who wasn't.

"Well, it looked like a row was going on between Serena and Hermione, then all of a sudden everything stopped. It seems a bit anticlimactic if you ask me." Ron said. Harry just smiled at his friend.

"Well would you like a row then?" Harry said. Then turning to Serena "Sorry to interrupt you two, but Ron was expecting a row between you and Hermione, and he feels he won't be able to rest well till the row has come. Would you be so kind as to give him a row?"

"Well of course, Harry, I'm a sucker for a pretty face." Serena said giggling. Ginny started laughing again as Serena went on. "What were we arguing about? Oh yeah. Hermione your friend here is quite a looker. If you do fancy him, you should snatch him up before school starts. Just think between him and Harry, half the school with be after Gryffindor boys."

"Well with you and Ginny, the other half of the school will be after the Gryffindor girls." Harry said laughing as he said this. He knew it was true but wanted to keep this light.

"The problem is they will all be going after the two single ones, Harry. Maybe they should get together just to save the trouble of having to fight everyone off. Though the thought of my brother being cute is quite repulsive!" Ginny said, laughing along with Harry.

"Will you three please just give it a rest already! Ron is not going to go out with someone just to save the trouble of having people go out with him! He'd much rather go out with someone he cares about. Isn't that right Ron?" Hermione said glaring at him. He knew this was not a time to start a row with her.

"Right Mione, I'd never do anything like that." Ron said, trying to sound sincere.

"Well, Hermione, you never know. He might fancy me so it wouldn't be so bad. At least he would care. I'm not horrid to look at after all, and I definitely know how to have fun." Serena said, the last part coming out more wicked than Harry and Ginny would expect. Even Ron got the meaning.

"Ron you are doing better than me. No one even thought to fight over me, and I have a girlfriend. You, who isn't dating anyone, has two girls eagerly fighting for your attention. You are so lucky." Harry joked laughing at this development. Ginny was holding his hand with her arm through his. "A Black is fighting for you no less. You know they fight hard for what they want. If you ask me, you and Serena would be pretty good together, and we could definitely use a fourth marauder!"

"HARRY JAMES POTTER, RON WILL NOT BE GOING OUT WITH HER BECAUSE HE'S MINE!" Hermione said, then, as her eyes widened, her mouth fell open at what she said, and she ran out of the room.

"Bout time she gave in. I was wondering when that was going to happen. I was beginning to think we would have to keep working her on through dinner!" Harry said. He now began laughing again. "The first marauder plan was successful!" holding his cup up. " To many more successful plans in the future! Cheers!" The girls laughing touched their cups to his and drank. Ron, meanwhile, seemed to figure out what was happening.

"You three planned all this? Harry, Ginny, you embarrassed one of your best friends on purpose?" Ron said, shocked at what he saw and how happy they all were. Harry shook his head at this.

"No, Ron, not embarrassed her. She is embarrassed because she finally said what she wanted." Harry said. "We know what it looks like, mate, believe me we do. It was a part of the discussion that almost made us not do it. Truthfully, we were getting more than a little sick of knowing you both fancy each other, yet you were both to afraid to say anything. Believe me Ron, there were worse plans than this. One with me threatening to kiss Hermione in front of you, one of Serena actually kissing you in front of Hermione, but those seemed to cruel for both of you. What we needed was for one of you to admit it so the other could see for themselves not because of a threat or a kiss."

"Ron, what made Hermione embarrassed was that she didn't want to say that in front of you. What she needs now is to know how you feel, and that you are not ashamed of those feelings as well" Ginny said. "If you don't it will only be worse for her than it is now. When that is done we will tell her what we are telling you, but not until then. Ron we were doing this for both of you, not for ourselves. Now go Ron. You know it is time to."

With that Ron left the room, somewhat shocked, while mostly scared. He was about to admit he had feelings for Hermione. Mrs. Weasley sat across from the three after Ron had left. She looked at them for a long time and she realized that these three, though laughing and joking as nothing was going to happen, were hoping for the best for their friends.

"Children, that was a sweet idea that you had for your friends." Molly started. "However, there were better ways to handle the situation. I know you meant well, but you must remember feelings are not something that should be used that way." As the children started to protest she held up her hand to silence them. "I know all the things you are going to say. Don't get me wrong, I'm happy that those two will finally have their feelings out in the open now. But how would you two feel if the same thing was done to you?" She said looking from Harry to Ginny.

"Mrs. Weasley, it pretty much was that way. Tonks left us alone to figure things out on our own. It was just me and her, Tonks even took Serena away. Not leaving the house mind you, but leaving us to talk to each other. However, that wouldn't work in Ron and Hermione's case, cause when it comes to their feelings, they are a bit thick about admitting it." Harry said. "Sometimes people need a push in the right direction. Do you really think I would be able to face the things I do, without a push from those who loved me when I couldn't bring myself to face things myself?"

"I suppose you are right, Harry dear, but I still wish that you all had acted differently about this. Hermione may not talk to any of you for a long time after this. This had to be a bad experience for her. I hope you all understand that." Mrs. Weasley said. They all looked at each other, realizing that they may have pushed too hard. Serena and Ginny nodded at Harry.

"You should go talk to her, Harry. She will need to understand it all, and no one can explain it better than you. You have been her friend for years. Go ahead." Serena said. He looked at Ginny, who smiled at him.

"She's right. She won't take this as well from me or Serena, but she will listen to you Harry. She always has, even when she was worried she would die 'or worse be expelled'!" Ginny said laughing. "At least she finally got her priorities in order now. Most of the good things that happened to her were because of you and Ron. Now be her friend, as you always have been. Go Harry." Harry nodded and stood up walking out of the kitchen. Not finding her in the family room, he went upstairs, and followed the sounds of crying. Gently he knocked on the door to hear Hermione's voice small and sad.

"Come in." She said. Harry walked in and smiled. Hermione and Ron were hugging each other tightly, while Hermione cried. They were made for each other, any fool could see it.

"Ron, can I talk to Hermione in private for a minute? This could get ugly for me and I'd rather not be seen after that by both of my best mates." Harry said. Ron nodded, seeming to know what would happen as well as Harry. When Ron left the room Harry sat on the bed opposite Hermione.

"Mione, I wanted to apologize for what we did. We didn't realize that it would be so hard on you. We just wanted you and Ron to stop this game you two have going and finally talk about how you two feel." Harry said.

"Harry I'm not mad at you for doing that, I'm mad at me for not realizing it. It was easy enough to see as you three looked triumphant after I said that. Why would you do that to me though, Harry? I've never done anything like that to you before, why would you do that to me?" Hermione asked, tears still falling from her eyes, sounding more hurt than angry.

"We wanted you to be happy. Serena has a thing for playing matchmaker, and seeing you two today struck the same chord as me and Ginny did. We wouldn't be together if it wasn't for her. Ginny and me just wanted to give you the chance that we had. It wasn't until Mrs. Weasley talked to us that we realized how bad it must have been for you. For that we're sorry." Harry said. He was just as quiet as Hermione. This moment was meant to be private.

"I wish you had at least given me warning. At least a chance to tell him better than this. I almost had all the courage to do it this morning before Serena started flirting with him, and all the while she flirts with you and Ginny just shrugged it off when I asked her, saying that's just her way. But Ginny has you, and she knows it. Ron was so uncertain for me. I didn't know he even fancied me till a few minutes ago. I must have been blind" Hermione said, slightly chuckling to herself.

"Well Serena is that way for one. You wouldn't believe some of the things about her." Harry said laughing. "However she has no interest in Ron as a boyfriend. She just knew it would push you to the edge and make you say something. When it comes to you to caring about each other, both of you are a bit thick. Will you forgive us trying to do something nice, and accidentally hurting you?" Harry said.

"Yes Harry, I can forgive you. But don't do anything like that again! God, if you weren't my best friend, I swear I would kill you sometimes."

"I know Hermione, but what can you do?" Harry said, hugging her. "You are a good friend. Now lets go see what trouble everyone is getting into." and he led her downstairs.

It seemed that there was no trouble that day, Remus and Dumbledore returned at dinner and afterwards they had a talk with Tonks and Harry, telling them their escort has been set up. They had also been informed that Sirius had been cleared of all charges, as per his request. They were also told that they were to pull no more pranks, no matter how well intentioned while at Grimmauld Place. This slightly bothered Harry but he didn't care, he was saving all his pranks for school anyway.