Chapter 18: Connections
"I can't believe it was a Muggle device," Harry said as he sat down with Remus and Tonks in Grimmauld Place. They'd just come back from a briefing that Kingsley had held. Kingsley had invited Remus because of the Order, and well, the other man probably figured that with an Auror for a wife and Harry as one of his friends, Remus would find out all the essential details anyway. Also, Harry knew the Kingsley just valued and appreciated Remus's opinion.
"Yeah, and not only that, it worked perfectly fine around magic," Tonks said as she put the kettle on.
"I'm not sure how much magic had been occurring in that particular warehouse, Dora," Remus said, finding some biscuits for them to nosh on. Harry gratefully took one; sometimes after being at the Ministry he found sugar was the only way to start feeling like himself again.
"True," Tonks conceded, placing a teapot down on the table, along with some cups.
"But Diagon Alley is teeming with it and you'd think with so much magic concentrated in one place, it would make even the simplest things go haywire."
"Well, Kings did say they called in some experts to check it over and make sure there wasn't anything we were missing," Remus said, catching Harry's eye. Harry grinned in response. By experts, Kingsley had meant Fred and George, since the device had acted very much like something the twins might concoct; albeit in a completely Muggle way. Harry had just got to see George arriving by floo before they'd left. He told Ginny's brother to stop by the house before he returned to Ireland so he could catch up with them.
"So, Harry," Remus began. "Sorry about not coming 'round the other day. But what did you want to talk about?"
Harry frowned. With everything that had happened the last two days, he'd forgotten about the Sean O'Brien thing. He looked at his bracelet.
"I wanted to see if there was a way we could make some low-key, quiet inquiries into exactly who Sean O'Brien is. Mr Cosgrove had a friend in the Irish MLE look into him, but they didn't have much. But I thought maybe the Ministry here might have a bit more?"
"So you want to use me as an inside gal to all things O'Brien," Tonks said, winking at him.
"Well, if you could, that'd be great," Harry admitted. "But don't get in trouble or anything for me. I thought maybe Remus could talk to Kingsley-"
"And keep it official while also keeping it to fewer people, right," Remus said, nodding. "Like an operation for the Order, without there being…well, an Order. Have you thought of talking to Aberforth? He is the one who gave you the bracelets to begin with."
Harry made a face. "I did, actually. But…."
Remus gave him a kind smile. "He's a good bloke, Harry. Just eccentric and stubborn. And sometimes he can be…."
"As crotchety as an old billy goat?" Tonks quipped. "He smells like one too."
"Well, I was looking for a less hostile description…like, he's just set in his way about things. And he doesn't smell like a goat, Dora. Well, not much."
"We'll disagree on that one, Remus. So like I said. Abe is crotchety. Like you'd be if you didn't have me to make you laugh."
Harry chuckled and Remus rolled his eyes, but he saw the other man give his wife an affectionate look.
"Remus would never smell like goat," Harry offered.
"No, true. He'd smell like the dried tears of his lost youth instead."
"Oh, honestly, Dora. What would that even smell like?"
Tonks shrugged. "Old man salt?"
Harry snorted and finished his tea. "On that note, I'm off. I'm picking up Ron and we're going to meet with the builders. And hey, Ginny and Brogan want to invite you to dinner, tomorrow night, if you're able. They're very excited about some dish they've decided to try."
"Yes!" Tonks said excitedly. "I work until 5 but I can duck out early if I need to. One of the boons of surviving a war with your boss, you can leave work whenever you damn well feel like it."
They both turned to Remus who shrugged. "As a man of leisure, I'm sure I'm free."
Tonks reached out and squeezed her husband's hand in comfort. Harry felt bad but didn't say anything as Remus's pride was notorious. As much as Professor McGonagall had wanted to invite Remus back to teach again, she'd been forced to withdraw his name because of the whole werewolf debacle, or so Hermione had told Harry. He wished there was something he could do. An idea began to form in the back of mind, but it would involve talking to Kingsley, and Harry didn't fancy going back into the Ministry just yet. But he made a note to himself to bring it up the next time he saw the Head Auror.
"Right, well," Harry said as he stood. "Seven is dinner time as far as I know. But feel free to come by whenever."
They said their goodbyes, and Harry headed towards Ron and Hermione's. He was eager to see some of the builders again and talk about their current timetable. He realized he'd missed building the last few weeks and was sort of itching to try it again. He patted his pocket, making sure his drawing plans were still safely tucked away. He knew he'd have to get more paper eventually. Either that or start planning on a smaller house. Grinning to himself, Harry wondered if Ron would mind stopping at Flourish and Blott's for a few things.
o-o-o-o-o
"You know," Brogan said as he stretched on the sofa. "Harry's birthday is coming up awfully fast."
Ginny, who was curled against him, nodded thoughtfully. "It is, you're right. What should we plan then?"
"Do you think he'd like a party? I mean, with just his friends, nothing with a lot of people, of course. Sort of like the 'do I had at Hogwarts. We could have it here."
"I think my mum will take care of that, she usually does. She can't abide by not celebrating Harry's birthday, trust me. She'll cook all day, too. We could both help her with that and get you more on her good side."
Brogan smirked. He was all for that if it meant less stress between Harry, Ginny, and her parents. Their talk with Molly had gone better than he'd hoped and yet he knew they shouldn't take the accord with her mum for granted. Especially not after she told Mr Weasley, which he was sure Mrs Weasley would do sooner rather than later.
"I was thinking of getting him something to help with his building aspirations," Brogan said as Ginny turned to face him. They'd both been reading comfortably on the sofa. It was sort of a novel experience for him. Before Ginny, he'd never had the pleasure of laying around reading, a beautiful and lovely smelling woman in arms doing the same. Brogan knew then that he could get entirely too used to this co-habitation of theirs.
"That's a good idea," Ginny said, looking thoughtful. She then gave him a mischievous look. "I suppose I could buy some more lingerie."
"I don't know, that leather piece was quite…exhilarating. It'll be hard to top." Brogan felt flushed and bothered just remembering it.
Ginny gave him beamed at him as she lowered her hand between them. "I can tell. Days later and just look at your reaction."
Brogan smiled and closed his book. He pulled her up until she was laying on top of him, her face inches away from his. Her brown eyes were alight with humor and…she was very pleased, he could tell. He touched her face tenderly and wrapped a tendril of her hair around his finger, tugging on it slightly. He was about to kiss her when Brogan suddenly felt overwhelmed as a memory of them being together exactly like this rushed through his mind. He blinked at her until his vision cleared.
"Whoa," Brogan said, shaking his head.
"What was it?" Ginny asked, concerned.
"Nothing bad," he said, to soothe her. "Just a memory between you and me that I'd forgotten. Sometimes that happens. Sid wants me to write it down when it does."
"This means I have move off of my comfortable Brogan-shaped pillow now, doesn't it?"
"Sorry."
She shook her head and shifted off of him. He looked around for his journal and realized it was still in the bedroom. He stood and then pulled her with him, smiling. When he found the journal he grabbed his quill and wand and sat down on the bed.
"What did you remember?" Ginny asked.
"Did we…I want to say it was at Dumbledore's Library and it was just me and you. And I just had this sensation of touching your face and your hair. We were in bed, I think."
"Where else would we be?" Ginny asked, smirking.
"Here," Brogan said, handing the journal to her, along with the quill. "I'm going to cast the charm Sid taught me. Take note of the colors."
They both watched as the parts of Brogan's mind that dealt with his emotions and memories appeared next to him. The colors were fading, but they were still distinguishable. There were the predictable red and pinks, but there was also a few blues and greens in there.
"Red is for the deeper feelings and pink is for affection or warmth," he explained. "I think Sid said blues and greens are for calm feelings, like feeling safe or feeling as though you're at home."
Ginny dutifully made note of the colors. She poked at the diagnostic with the quill. "What's with this sort of dark edging around the red and the blue?"
Brogan frowned. "I don't know. I'll ask Sid when we go over the journal next week. I had a memory the other day in the shower that was similar."
"What was that memory?"
Brogan felt his skin heat. "Erm, that one was of Harry."
Ginny gave him a knowing look. "Yes, memories of Harry in the shower do tend to set off all the bells and colors of the rainbow. Trust me, I know."
"It's so weird though," Brogan said, taking the journal back from her and making a few more notes about his feelings. "I'll think I've remembered everything and then wham, it just hits me and I realize there's so much more I've misplaced. But yet, I know the memories are true and real as soon as they hit me."
"How do you feel afterward?" Ginny asked shrewdly.
Brogan met her gaze. "Honestly? Relieved. As though a bit more of myself has been put back in. Of course, some of the memories just randomly show up. Like, this morning I was thinking of my father and then suddenly I remembered the last time I saw him before…well before the portal happened. He hugged me, Gin. Hugged me."
Ginny laughed. "It has been known to happen between father and son. Occasionally."
"I know, but…it was just a strange sensation. The colors for that memory, by the way, were orange and yellow. Not sure exactly what those mean."
Just then Harry's Patronus came into the room, and, after striking its hoof majestically on the air they heard Harry telling them to get off their lazy backsides and come meet them at the site for the house.
Ginny smiled eagerly at Brogan. "I've seen pictures of it, but you haven't seen it at all! Come on, let's go see our future. You're gonna love it."
She grabbed his hand excitedly and Brogan left his journal on the bed. They decided to walk the short distance, and Ginny was being absolutely adorable, chattering on about the land for their prospective home. Brogan smiled at her, so glad he'd managed to not fuck up and lose her being in his life. She made him stop and then put her hands around his eyes, as she stretched upwards and they half-stumbled, half-walked the last bit of the way, laughing.
"Gin, let the poor man see," Harry's voice was close and full of amusement. Brogan heard Ginny tsk and then she removed her hands. He blinked rapidly, getting them used to the bright sunlight again. It was lovely, the bit of land they'd picked and Brogan found himself smiling. He could just see the house in his head – he'd looked over Harry's plans and knew the other man was quite ambitious with regards to what he wanted, but looking at the actual land with his own two eyes made him realize that he wanted to make it a reality, too.
"It's a gorgeous lot," he said, and Ginny smirked as she joined Harry, linking her hands with his.
"Yes, he did a good job," Ginny said, nodding.
"Thanks, both of you, for not sounding too dismayed," Harry said dryly. He waved at Ron, who was talking to a small group of men, whom Brogan assumed were the builders. The men soon dispersed and Disapparated, leaving them alone on the land. Ginny's brother soon joined them.
"Andrew thinks they might be able to start by next week, Harry," Ron said as he nodded at Brogan and Ginny. "He's going to check back and let you know later today."
"Brilliant!" Harry said, sounding happy. "And now for my other surprise. Voilà." With a wave of his wand, two picnic baskets appeared under the nearest tree. "Lunch, courtesy of the The Three Broomsticks."
"Aw, I wish Hermione could be here," Ginny said as she started looking through the baskets at their food.
"Oh, she will be. In fact…." Ron paused and looked at his watch. "Just about now."
Sure enough, there was a soft pop of noise as someone Apparated nearby and a moment later they heard Hermione calling for them. Ron got up to get her and Brogan used his wand to transfigure one of the cloth napkins into a nice thick blanket for them to sit on.
"More than a pretty face, I love it," Harry said affectionately. He sat down in between Ginny and Brogan.
"How did the Ministry meeting go?" Ginny asked as she started passing out plates.
"Yes, Harry. I'm curious too," Hermione said as she and Ron joined them.
"Let's get the food bit out of the way first," Harry said wisely, and they quickly started passing the various dishes around. Brogan smiled when Ron handed him the special to-go coffee cup.
"Well," Harry said after they'd all tucked in. "It was a Muggle device. Set to go off at precisely when it did."
"How big was it?" Hermione asked. Harry made a motion with his hands that roughly made it seem as though the item had been the size of a toaster.
Hermione frowned. "It shouldn't have worked. Too big. Not with all the magic, and magical beings in Diagon Alley. Not to mention all the spells combined to protect Diagon Alley from being seen by regular Londoners. Nothing Muggle should work there at all."
"Tonks said something similar, actually," Harry said.
"Well, that's not exactly true, Hermione," Brogan said. "Remember the telly at my dad's flat?"
"Yes, but he made the room…oh, yes, I see what you mean, but why go to all the trouble of making it a Muggle device? Surely there are explosive magical devices or even a series of spells could have been cast to make something blow up. Bombarda Maxima, for example."
"Erm, for those of us not bloody brilliant in the brain department, go back to the device. How did they make it work again?" Ron asked, frowning.
"The telly in my dad's flat works because he made the room impenetrable to magic. So even our baseline…magical energy we give off as witches and wizards wouldn't affect it. Someone did that to this device, I think. They could place it inside something that, after the device went off, would melt away, like a paper box or something," Brogan explained. "In fact, I did something similar to my music-playing device. I mean, I didn't put it in a box, but I protected it in sort of magic, non-magical bubble."
"Oh, yeah, that's not confusing at all," Harry said, eating his sandwich.
"The point is," Brogan said, nudging him gently. "Is that it is possible to do it. It's just that most magical people don't care to learn how and most Muggleborns sort of…well, I'm not sure why they don't bother. Hermione?"
Hermione made a face. "Well, for one thing, the magical world is overwhelming to most of us, and it sort of…well, it overtakes our inclination for Muggle things eventually. I also suspect that it's because when they come to the wizarding world and hear that nothing Muggle usually works around magic, they sort of…give it all up? I know I felt a bit of frustration when I couldn't use things here that I used at my parents. But eventually, I was just able to use magic for whatever I needed and didn't really think about trying to make it work. You're unique in that you tried, Brogan."
Brogan grinned. "Also, I had no life and I really, really like Muggle music."
Ginny smiled at him. "Well, I'm glad you sorted it because I like it too, now."
"Okay, back to what Hermione was saying though," Harry said, looking thoughtful. "She's right. Why make it Muggle?"
"So it wouldn't be traced back to them," Ron offered. "Magically speaking, it is fairly easy to track things. And I don't even mean spells, but magical items that were purchased can be too."
"Right, and it wasn't found straight away, was it?" Ginny asked. "I mean, the Aurors didn't discover this until a day later. So, whoever left it there could be long gone."
"Or have an alibi in place," Hermione said, nodding.
"Maybe they were making a point," Ron said darkly. "I mean, we just ended a war that was basically about Muggleborns and blood-purity and all of that shite. Voldemort and his followers weren't exactly quiet about the inferiority of Muggles, were they?"
"So, you think whoever set it was sending a message that Muggles are bad?" Harry asked. "If Muggles are behind this bomb going off then Voldemort was right to hate them?"
Ron nodded. "Yeah, bonkers, isn't it? But then when did that lot ever think clearly? Circular logic."
"But, Muggles can't be behind the bombing! How would they know how to even get into Diagon Alley in the first place? Unless you're suggesting it was a Muggleborn?" Hermione asked, looking troubled.
"No, but what if that is what someone wants us to think?" Brogan asked.
"That's downright…Machiavellian," Hermione said, looking perturbed.
"Erm, what?" Ron asked
"Very cunning of them to use something Muggle against magical folks who just went through a war about whether or not blood-status matters," Brogan explained.
"My head hurts," Ginny said, sighing as she put her plate down.
"Sure that has nothing to do with the treacle tart you just inhaled," Ron said, snatching the rest of her piece off of her plate. Ginny made a noise and batted at his hand, but Brogan noticed she let him have the tart.
They finished up and then Ron and Hermione left, leaving the three of them some alone time with the land. Harry was now wandering around the property, his parchment floating out in front of him as he walked, making notes. Ginny smiled at Brogan as she followed his gaze.
"Go, keep him company. I'm going to just lay back and enjoy soaking up all of this nature," she said, putting her arms behind her head. Brogan grinned and leaned over her.
"You mean you're going to take a kip because you ate too much sugar."
"Oh, shush," Ginny said, laughing. She reached up and pulled him down to her and kissed him. "Go have some Harry time."
Brogan waggled his eyebrows at her and she laughed again as he got up. He made his way over towards Harry, who was now sitting on a small boulder, trying to scratch something into the parchment as it floated in front of him.
"Realized we need more than one bathroom in the whole place, didn't you?"
Harry smirked at him and continued writing. Brogan sat down next to him, using his wand to make it more comfortable for their bums. Harry finally finished and tapped the parchment so it rolled up again and landed with a soft noise in the grass.
"Ginny napping?"
"Aye. That's what she claims, anyway." They both turned to where they could just make out the form of Ginny still lying on the blanket he'd transfigured.
"So, what do you really think of it?" Harry asked, sitting back. Harry joined their hands together after a moment, linking his fingers with Brogan's.
"It's lovely, Harry. I wasn't really picturing it before, but now that I've seen the lot, I can almost visualize the house you want to build. It's going to be brilliant."
"I hope so," Harry said. "I told Ginny this, and now I'm telling you, I want this to be a house that has everything you've ever wanted."
Brogan felt touched. "I have to admit I've never really thought about what I'd like in a house. I've always been sort of nomadic, I reckon. Mum moved us around so much and then after she died, I was always in different places. Sorry, if I don't have a lot of requests."
"It's all right," Harry said softly. "I already know most of what you'd like anyway. Lots of rooms with books, music, soft sofas and chairs, decent lighting, and a coffee nook on every floor. And big bathtubs."
"Oh, you know me so well," Brogan chuckled.
"Yeah. I do. I'm glad you've finally noticed."
His voice was so serious, that Brogan glanced at him, unsurprised to find that he'd moved closer. He felt his heart start to race; Harry's eyes had gone dark green and were full of unspoken things. He wasn't sure which one of them moved the last few inches, but as he felt their lips touch, Brogan was again reminded of how lucky he was. A memory bloomed in his mind – the day of Ginny's birthday – just him and Harry talking after they'd had a rather intense moment between them and as the same sensations moved through him he pulled Harry closer to him. Harry moaned as he too felt what Brogan was feeling and when they finally broke apart, both gasping for air, Harry marveled at him.
"What was that? That was better than your average snog, Brogan, and that's saying something for you."
"I remembered something I forgot, I think," Brogan said. He vaguely wondered what colors would be showing now, but he didn't feel like casting the spell to check for some reason. This moment felt too private.
"What was it?"
"Our time together on Ginny's birthday, you know, after…"
"Oh. Good memory," Harry said after a moment, face breaking into a grin. "Actually, a bloody fantastic memory."
"Definitely." Brogan reached out and kissed him again, resting their heads together. "Do you think you and I could…do that again soon? Just us, I mean, if you want-"
Harry stopped him with another kiss. "Of course, I want. Ginny got you all to herself, it's only fair I get my share."
"It's different with us, for some reason," Brogan said. "I feel like, yes, we're together when we're with her, but when we're just us…."
"It feels different because…well, I'm not sure. Is it the taboo of it, do you think? Like, there's a part of us that feels if Ginny is there then it's…not…I don't know what I'm trying to say," Harry said, frowning.
"I sort of know what you mean, I reckon. But only because I spent the last month since you brought me back trying to deny I was attracted to you. It's given me a bit of insight into the general male psyche about such things."
Harry laughed and sat back. "Oh, do tell, Mr Caley."
"Well, I mean, before me, erm, well, non-memory me was like, oh yes, Ginny is fit and yes, that would be rather nice, wouldn't it? And then there's you and you were…you were giving me such heart-eyes, Harry."
"I was not!"
Brogan grinned. "Aye, you were a bit, but regardless of that, I felt something when I looked at you but instead of following that feeling and trying to understand it, I rejected it and ran the other way. Erm, well, metaphorically."
"Then physically."
"Yes," Brogan paused, feeling embarrassed. Harry touched him and there was a kind look in his eyes.
"I'm not taking the piss."
"I know," Brogan said. "But between us, there is the emotional pull, much stronger than with Ginny sometimes, even though she and I share this empathic thing. But because I originally fell in love with you because of seeing you through her eyes and her emotions, it….erm, okay, look, the wizarding world doesn't really have labels for people who enjoy the same sex type of connection. I know Muggles do, and before you, I would have sworn up and down that I was not into blokes, at all. I mean, I see loads of attractive blokes now, and I'm not…I'm still not into them, not like I am with you. With you, Harry, it's…I mean, obviously, you turn me on, but it's just…so much more than physical between us. And that's why, at least, I think it's why, when I lost my memories of you it really messed with me because it made me question a part of myself I'd never wanted to acknowledge."
Harry looked thoughtful for a bit and then smirked at him. "I turn you on, eh?"
Brogan snorted. "Um, yeah, you daft sod. Figures that's all you'd take away from that little speech."
Harry smiled. "No, I understand what you mean. I…actually, I had an interesting experience while you were still in the Well. I realized I was attracted to Garrett, of all people."
"My Garrett? Librarian, shy, strangely emotionally weird, Garrett?"
"Well, he wasn't really acting all that shy or strange. Becoming the librarian really gave him confidence, you know. And…I don't know. I mean, I wouldn't ever act on it, obviously, I can barely handle you and Ginny, what with the memory losses, other dimensions, and the constant shagging," Harry snorted as Brogan squeezed his hand roughly. "But I realized I like a certain type of person, regardless of sex. I mean, I'm sure there's been a few blokes I've fancied but I never really, erm, knew what that meant or even recognized it. Like Ginny's brother Bill really excited me as a kid, but don't tell her that."
"You really like men with red hair, eh? Now I'm starting to worry about Ron-"
"Oh! No. I do not fancy Ron. But don't tell him that, he'd be insulted, I think. But I mean, I'm sure…erm, well, I thought Cedric Diggory was pretty fit and he had dark hair. Very handsome."
Brogan pursed his lips at Harry. "I can't even make a rude comment because he died."
Harry shrugged, looking pensive for a moment. "So maybe I'm more open with the whole same-sex thing? I dunno. I do know I don't really think of it in those terms."
Harry paused as though trying to sort out his thoughts. "I just know that I care about you, and you make me laugh, and like Ginny, you just…you get me, Brogan. I know I can be just Harry with you and not have to worry. Not to sound over-emotional here, but you make me feel safe and loved as she does. I reckon that's what does it for me more than anything, which isn't surprising considering my childhood."
"So the secret to our relationship is my unfailing ability to put people at ease? Really? You couldn't just say it was my handsome face and sexy arse? Wow. What a blow to the ego."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Of course, it was also your handsome face and sexy arse, you idiot. Also, your intense snogging abilities. Which, if I may say, I'm sort of missing right now, so let's shut up about our feelings already. Get over here and give us a kiss."
Who was Brogan to deny Harry Potter a snog when he wanted one? Harry kissed him and it was sweet at first, and then turned needier and they were both panting as they broke apart. Harry fixed him with a look that thrilled him down to his toes.
"Oh, sure, it's totally just emotional with us," Harry deadpanned. "No physical reaction here at all."
Brogan pulled Harry close again and was completely unashamed when the growl escaped his lips. "You talk too bloody much."
"Think we could ask Ginny to go shopping for a few hours?" Harry asked, eyes lighting up. "I can show you loads of other uses for my mouth."
Brogan merely grinned in response.
o-o-o-o-o
Harry thought that if someone sat down and listed all the greatest things in the world that sex had to be, at least, in the top five. Shake and blend in some lusty, rather naughty, rough-ish sex and it would definitely move into the top three, right after Christmas presents, but before flying. Ginny hadn't needed any asking at all – she'd taken one look at them when they'd walked back over to her and waved her hand at them with a smirk. She told them to enjoy themselves and that she was going to visit with Luna.
Harry was grateful to her – being alone with Brogan had been exactly what he'd needed; what they'd needed. Ginny always knew, and he was so fortunate for her. They both were.
Brogan stirred, lifting his head off of Harry's chest, an adorably sleepy smile on his face.
"Hey," Harry said, running his hand through his lover's hair. Brogan blinked at him, his cheeks still a bit pink, although Harry wasn't sure if it was because of exertion or embarrassment. He hoped it wasn't the latter. What they'd done to each other had been far, far too enjoyable to Harry, and he definitely wanted a repeat performance.
"No, it's not shame," Brogan said knowingly. He gave Harry a happy grin. "That was bloody fantastic."
"It was," Harry agreed. He wrapped his arms around Brogan and snuggled against him. He felt amazingly relaxed and at peace.
"I feel like we just get better and better at all of that," Brogan mused, placing his lips on the curve of Harry's arm.
"Do we? Hmm. You were a bit inspired at the end, I must say." Harry glanced down at his hips and could still see the fingermarks of where Brogan had grabbed and held him down. A bit lower was a small bite mark that filled him with great pleasure, too. He sighed happily. He'd rather enjoyed being marked. And, after glancing at the impression he'd made on Brogan's backside with the whip, Harry thought he rather enjoyed marking even more.
Brogan raised an eyebrow at him. "It was that mouth of yours and all the things you showed me it could do." He paused and then smirked rather handsomely. "Maybe also that whip. Who knew you'd be so adept, so quickly, with it? When do you think these marks will fade?"
"I hope never," Harry said. He concentrated a moment and waved his has hand, smirking. "That should last at least a day or two now."
"At least as long as my love bite to your shockingly good looking groin area here," Brogan said as he sighed and nuzzled his face against Harry's body.
Harry laughed. Brogan shifted upward and leaned over him on both arms and kissed him. Although he knew he had nothing left in him, Harry couldn't help but feel as though he still wanted…more. Was he just insatiable? Unaware of Harry's thoughts, Brogan relaxed and settled back down into his arms, and Harry kissed the top of his head, feeling quite overwhelmed. He'd always assumed his natural need for touch and sex was because the compulsion spell with Ginny had conditioned him to crave it, but maybe Harry just wanted it all the time because he just…wanted it. And not with just anyone – he wanted it because it was Brogan and because it was Ginny. Apparently, the two of them together were exactly what he desired, and thank Merlin they felt the same way.
There was a sudden warmth flowing through his body and he realized it was coming from his bracelet. He raised his hand, staring at it and feeling…oddly strengthened. He shifted and sat up, slowly reaching down as he impulsively matched his bracelet against Brogan's wrist. It was suddenly as though everything seemed perfectly clear to Harry – he saw himself as Brogan saw him, could feel what the other man felt and he sucked in a deep breath as he shuddered in response. Brogan's eyes had dilated and he looked as though he was experiencing the same thing as Harry, as though they'd been given visions of each other. The warmth and the sensations of being joined eventually passed and they stared at each other in awe.
"Aine," Brogan finally said, sounding thoughtful.
Harry gave his lover a sardonic smirk, glad for the break in tension. "Um, no. Harry. Far shorter and more manly in places. I mean, I hope I am."
"Ha, ha," Brogan said as he sat back. "I've just remembered what I couldn't the other day. She said to tell you to completely embrace all that the bracelets are and that it is the only way to defeat the Old One. And that as long as the three of us reconnect and reforge our link, then he can't truly hurt us."
"The old one?"
"Yeah, she didn't say who that was but…it's Sean O'Brien, it has to be!" Brogan said excitedly, eyes widening. "I can't believe I forgot this part. He's not human, Harry."
Harry stared at Brogan, wondering if he'd heard him right. "I'm sorry, what?"
"He's…oh, God, why is my memory so shit! He's some sort of weird hybrid creature, or I don't know, but he's not fully human. I saw his…I saw his real face when he grabbed me. He said something about Empath's always being able to sense him and I think this is what he meant."
"What is he, if he's not human?"
"I don't know what to tell you, just…there's more than just Sean O'Brien in that body. Erm, maybe it's like a spirit, or, I don't even know. But Ginny sort of hit on it too. Remember she said perhaps I get headaches from being around him because he was projecting an image or hiding something? I bet this is it."
Harry frowned, thoughts starting to race. It made sense, in a way, but still…he glanced at Brogan. He wondered if this was like when he'd first learned he could speak Parseltongue and assumed loads of other people could do it.
"Erm, does this happen a lot in the magical world?"
"As far as I know? No."
"Well, hell."
"Right there with you," Brogan said, sighing and laying next to him. Harry watched as he raised his wrist and stared at his tattoo for a moment. "What do you think this means, Harry? And…just what was that between us?"
Harry shook his head."I honestly don't know. On either account."
Suddenly, the charm set for their gate went off and Harry swore, not wanting to move yet. Brogan got up and looked out the window.
"It's George Weasley, I think, er, Fred's got shorter hair now, right?"
"Oh, bugger. I did tell him to drop by earlier when I saw him." Harry looked around and started grabbing their clothes, handing Brogan his pants and jeans.
"Should we contact Ginny?" Brogan asked, picking up a shirt.
"Erm, yeah," Harry said looking around for his socks. He found his wand on the side table and shot off a Patronus, hoping it found Ginny at Luna's.
When they were both presentable, Harry hurried out to the gate before George thought they weren't home. The Weasley twin was looking around and jumped a little bit when Harry appeared in front of him out of nowhere.
"Getting pretty sly there, Potter. Nice temporary digs, though," George said, nodding at the house as he walked in through the gate. He shivered and cocked an eyebrow at Harry. "That a blood spell on the house? Wicked."
"It was Brogan's idea," Harry said as he led George up the path. "It's pretty handy, actually."
Brogan was in the kitchen, already brewing some tea and coffee. George looked around, impressed.
"Nice to see you're keeping my sister in the lap of luxury she isn't accustomed to. Very posh! Hullo, Brogan. How's your marbles?"
"Fine now, thanks, George. How's Kath?"
"Brilliant, mate. Bloody brilliant. That woman is…." George clasped his hand to his chest and pretended to swoon. "She sends her love by the way, and she wants you to write her as soon as possible. Hey, where's my favorite sister?"
"She's at Luna's, but I sent a message to her," Harry said going over to the kettle and pouring the hot water into the pot.
"Just you two minding the house then is it?" George asked, sounding nonchalant. Harry exchanged a look with Brogan and decided not to take the bait.
"Yes, well, we're both currently unemployed, George, and decided to really test our ability to be shiftless layabouts," Harry said handing him a cup of tea.
George cackled at him. He opened his mouth to either make a joke or take the mickey, but just then Ginny arrived. She squealed when she saw George and ran to him, jumping into his arms. Since George had just been handed a hot cup of tea, it was quite the comedic ballet of movements for him to avoid getting burned. Unfortunately, the teacup did not come out well in the scenario as it slipped from George's hand. Harry caught it, keeping it from hitting the floor with his wandless magic, and picked it up dutifully.
"Oh, sorry," Ginny said. She turned back to her brother. "I didn't know you were in town. Is Kath with you? Where's Fred? He should have come too!"
"Kath had a wedding party booked or trust me, she would have been here. She really wants to see Brogan," George said, nodding at him. "Fred said he had to work, but I think he wanted to see Angelina and you're just his boring little sister." Ginny tsked at him and hit her brother lightly on the arm.
"I never got to tell you, Gin, but the Ministry called in Fred and George to look at the device they found. They wanted to see if the infamous Weasley twins had any insights," Harry explained as they all sat at the table.
"Yeah, and a big thank you to whoever suggested our names," George rolled his eyes. "Is it just me or is the Ministry always filled with wankers?"
"I have noticed this to be the case, yes," Harry said dryly.
"One of them, a git by the unfortunate name of Sirby Bigelow practically accused Fred and me of planting the bomb as a lark. Said he was suspicious of Fred and Ron being on the scene so quickly! Tosser. Fred basically said the next time he hears a bomb go off, he'll wait whatever respectable time Bigelow can come up with so as not to appear too eager. Blighter deserved a punch in the face."
"I can't believe that Kingsley keeps a prat like that about," Harry said, stunned.
"He was there for Minister Spunk, apparently. And don't get me started on her," George grumbled darkly, but his face cleared as he smiled at Ginny. "You know what? You look really good, little Sis. Having Brogan back must agree with you."
Brogan blushed and Harry grinned at them. George's eyes filled with mischief. "And you look fine too, Harry. Very deshabille and very-just-got-shagged-within-an-inch-of-his-life."
Harry stopped smiling and gave George a serious look. "Hey, I don't tease you about Kath-"
"That's because as far as I know, I've never come to greet someone wearing one of Kath's shirts inside out." George nodded at Harry, who realized with some dismay that his shirt was on inside out and it was Brogan's. Bloody hell.
Ginny giggled. "Must have got dressed in a hurry, love."
"Don't you start," Harry grumbled. He threw Brogan a hopeless look. "Sorry."
Brogan shrugged eventually and he fixed George with an amused look. "Before you say anything else, you might want to talk to Kath about telling me things…Rosie."
George went scarlet and his eyes were wide. "She didn't."
"She did."
Harry and Ginny looked between them, both confused.
"I take it back, Harry. I've noticed and seen nothing. You are the picture of pure, untouched innocence. Now, before I head back to the land of forgiving and generous Ireland, please, Brogan, tell me how you really are because the lady Kath will want to know."
Harry leaned over to Ginny as Brogan and George started to talk. "What do you suppose that's about?"
Ginny smirked. "I think I might know, but honestly, I always thought it would be Fred, first."
Harry felt even more confused at that but Ginny indicated she'd tell him later. George didn't stay too long after that, almost as though he was nervous. But he promised that he and Kath would try to floo more, now since Harry and Ginny had a proper one without limitations.
Harry and Ginny walked him partway back towards the village since he was heading back to the Burrow to see his parents.
"Ah, I almost forgot, little Sis, but this is for you. Fred and I thought it might help since you're setting up house." George handed Ginny an envelope. She frowned at him but took it, ripping it open. Her eyes widened, and Harry looked over her shoulder to see a cheque for a very substantial amount of money. He gave a low whistle as Ginny bristled.
"George, you know I will not take your bloody charity-"
"Oi, keep your shirt on. It's part of your naming fee, remember? We're going ahead with the Peeper-Creepers and this is based on early sales. We agreed on 2% —"
"Actually we agreed on 3%," Ginny said, narrowing her eyes at her brother. George flashed a rakish grin at her.
"So we did. I was just making sure there's nothing wrong with your memory. Anyway, that's 3% of the future sales, which according to Fred, means they'll be flying off the shelves as soon as our manufacturer can get them to us. So, enjoy, dear sister. Buy Harry and Brogan some new interchangeable shirts."
Ginny eventually nodded and folded the check and stuck it in her robe pocket. Harry raised an eyebrow at George but didn't say anything. They reached the Apparation point before anyone spoke again.
"So, did you two have any insights into the bomb?" Harry asked. George made a face.
"A bit. Probably not what they wanted to hear. It was actually reminiscent of something we'd tried to make once, ourselves."
"George! Why were you making explosive devices?" Ginny asked, sounding not all that shocked, but still disturbed.
Her brother shrugged. "I don't know, Ginny. Because we could? Because we were 16-year-old boys and idiots? Take your pick. But anyway, we could never get it to work. We hadn't met Solace yet, and didn't know about the Impenetrable Charm he told us about."
"Hmm," Harry said, wondering if that was significant. He wondered where Solace had come up with the idea himself and planned to ask him.
George and Ginny hugged, and he shook Harry's hand with a wink. He paused before he turned to Apparate as though just remembering something.
"It is weird though, that device. Remember those dampening bombs we came across when we were looking for that Orb? Well, there was a bit of the same sort of feel to this device. Fred tried casting different spells of detection at it, even though the Aurors told us they'd been thorough. But you know us, determined as hell to prove our own cleverness. Anyway, one of the spells sort of made an odd puff of green smoke appear, and I remember what Brogan said about the one that was used on him. I mean, it's probably nothing, but…." George shrugged at them.
"That is odd," Ginny said, frowning at Harry.
"I haven't thought of that in months," Harry said. He'd all but forgotten about the goons who had jumped Brogan and the twins.
"Well, you two have been busy," George said. "Anyway, I'm off. I'll tell Dad and Mum you're living the life of a saintly creature out here, Sis, no worries."
"Oh, don't even start," Ginny said as she put her hands on her hips. "We had a very intense discussion with mum the other day and we don't need you mucking about in our personal business."
"Wow, you told the parents and Brogan still has his bits in one piece? I am actually impressed with you, Ginny," George said, eyes wide. "How did you stop our mother? Is it a spell? Can you teach it to me?"
"Oh, you. Yes, yes." Ginny laughed despite herself and shook her head at her brother. "Just go, Georgie, while I'm still delirious about that check you just gave me."
Harry could tell she was a bit touched by his compliment.
They waited until George disappeared and then started back to the house. Ginny held his hand as they walked, looking thoughtful.
"You know what this means, of course," Harry said, tugging on her hand.
"What?"
"We'll need to get you your own Gringott's account."
Ginny's face brightened. "Hey, you're right! I had one when I was a little girl, but I had to use the money I'd managed to save when school started. Well, mostly it was supplies and my dress robe for the Yule Ball that did it."
"I thought you looked very pretty in those robes," Harry offered.
Ginny smirked at him. "You didn't even notice me."
"Hey, that's not entirely true. I did. I just…you know, didn't know what that meant or pay any attention to it. I'm sort of thick, Gin, in case you haven't noticed."
Ginny snorted. "Harry, you are not thick. Oblivious, maybe. Sometimes."
"Whew, that's a relief," Harry teased.
Ginny smiled and pulled him to her, stretching up to kiss him. She rested her hand on his chest and smirked at this shirt, but didn't say anything. Harry realized it was still inside out.
"I should just give you the check and have it be part of my contribution to the cost of the house," she said with a small frown.
Harry wrapped his hand around hers. "No, keep it. We're financially fiscal, Gin, trust me. At least, I think that's what Hermione said."
"You're taking financial advice from Hermione now?"
"I take all sorts of advice from Hermione, you know that. Whether I want to or not. It's sort of the basis for our entire friendship."
Ginny chuckled. "Luna says hello by the way. I invited her over for tea on the weekend."
They reached the house and Ginny rested against the gate, smiling at him. Harry held her hand, squeezing it.
"Oh, I forgot to tell Brogan, but Remus and Tonks are all set for dinner tomorrow."
Ginny looked excited. "Brilliant. It feels so grown up, doesn't it? Having our own place? Having people pop round…I love it."
"Hmm, I reckon."
"What's wrong, Harry?"
"Well, I have to admit I do sort of like it just being the three of us, most of the time."
Ginny grinned and hugged him. "Sometimes even just two of us. You did look incredibly shagged out earlier, love. At least, next time comb your hair?"
"Hey, we'd just sort of…finished when he showed up. He's lucky he didn't see someone's arse hanging out," Harry grumbled.
"Oh, poor put upon Harry," Ginny said, winking at him.
"Can't a man just rent a house and shag his day away? I mean, honestly, is that too much to ask?"
Harry was only half-serious, but the sound of Ginny's laughter made him think she might not have understood that.
o-o-o-o-o
After a dinner fixed for them completely by Harry (a very nice spaghetti bolognese, Ginny was pleased to note) they eventually retired to their bedroom. Brogan had made the bed bigger and infinitely more comfortable for three people and they all had their own pile of pillows for support. He and Harry were at the head and Ginny was at the foot, mostly so she could glance at her two men and give herself a little present for her eyes. They were both adorable to her while appearing so focused.
Roisin, who had been missing most of the day was curled up on Harry's lap. Mostly because he'd been trying to work on the house plans with the new paper he'd bought and Roisin had thought that Harry- time could be better spent by giving her body and chin rubs. He'd given up on the paper but was now reading a book about furniture making, entitled, You Wand, Your Wood, Your New Kitchen Table!. Ginny was highly suspicious of that title, she had to admit, but Harry assured her it was a serious read.
Brogan was writing in his emotion journal, occasionally closing his eyes and then casting the charm Sid had taught him and making notes. She watched him for a bit, intrigued by it all. She had an idea that the extreme explosion of color she'd seen in one of the occasions had been from his afternoon with Harry. He'd given her a little smile and blushed a bit and quickly made it disappear. Ginny had merely shaken her head at him.
She was making a list of what she wanted them to start considering to get for the new house. She was thinking of colors for the walls and the types of cabinets they might want, and things they'd need for the kitchen, that sort of thing. Ginny knew it was a bit early days, they hadn't even broken ground yet, but she could hear the haunting voice of Hermione in her ear telling her it was never too early to start planning.
Eventually, Ginny put down her notes and used her wand to send them to the desk. She stretched and made a face as her neck and back gave a wince. Brogan was watching her and he held out his hand to her. Smiling, she agreed and crawled up the bed, settling next to him, but facing away.
"I haven't had a Brogan massage in months," she purred, and he chuckled. Soon he was rubbing her back and Ginny couldn't help the wanton moan that escaped her lips as his touch did its magic. She thought it was because he did that thing with his hands before he started, somehow empathically relaxing her. She was about to ask him, when Harry shifted, moving a disgruntled Roisin off his lap. He leaned forward, eyebrows raised.
"He's just giving you a back rub, Gin. No need to sound so desperate."
"Yes, but he's oh, oh, ow, so good at it." Ginny turned to Brogan. "Run one of those diagnostic charms, Brogan, see what you're doing, because honestly, it feels fantastic when you give me a back rub."
"All right," he said, sitting up. They watched him cast the spell and oohed and aahed as the various colors started to show up. It was bright red and pink, but there was more purple and a whole band of blue coloring through all of it. It was the first time Harry had seen such a thing, and he marveled at it.
"That's so cool," Harry said, sounding impressed. "If this is what's going on with a simple back rub, what happens when we're doing other stuff?"
"More intense colors, of course," Brogan said, grinning. He made some notes in his journal, saved the image, and then smiled at Ginny. "Thanks for the suggestion, Ginny. I think Sid might be interested in this one."
"He might be interested later, but my back is still sore now," she said cleverly, and Brogan laughed.
He began to rub her back again, and Harry smirked at Ginny. He kissed the side of her head and settled back on the bed. Ginny closed her eyes and let her head fall forward as Brogan really started working at the knot at the back of her neck. Merlin, that felt good. The longer he worked, the better she felt.
She was suddenly in the mood for something else entirely. She turned and caught Brogan's eye and he stopped his ministrations. He rested his hand on her back, the warmth causing her to shiver. She could see he was in a similar frame of mind and she grinned as she settled back into his arms. They started kissing for a bit, and Ginny had turned almost completely around, starting to feel rather frisky indeed. She and Brogan shared an amused glance as Harry kept on reading, oblivious and clearly not aware his lovers wanted his…attention. Ginny thought it was actually sort of adorable.
"How's the book, Harry?"
"Informative, Ginny."
Ginny snickered. "Do you think Brogan and I could convince you to stop being such a swot and come over here and join in?"
Harry glanced at them and then back again, looking momentarily surprised. "How long have I been lost in this book?"
"Not too long," Brogan said. "No one's even lost any clothing. Yet."
"Pity," Harry said dryly, closing his book and setting it on the side table. He turned towards them. "Does anyone want to take a shower?"
Ginny was game for it and Brogan nodded. The loo of the rental was decent, nothing like the Abbey of course, and nothing like what they usually preferred, but she knew with their wands they could expand it a bit to fit them. She was already in an old nightgown, ready for bed, so she waited for the men to catch up. As she watched them, she suddenly felt left out.
"Hey! What's with the markings?" Ginny asked, nodding towards Brogan's bum. She could make out the still seemingly fresh image of where he'd clearly been…struck more than a few times. She had a feeling that the boys had been a bit adventuresome with her whip. She looked at Harry.
"Well, come on then, show me yours."
Harry blushed but lowered his boxers and she saw the faint imprint of fingers on his hips as well as a still-red image of a love bite on near his groin. She raised an eyebrow at them.
"It's like that then, is it?"
Brogan and Harry looked at each other, as though confused about her reaction, and Ginny bit her lip to keep from laughing out loud.
"Well, which one of you is going to mark me then?" she asked, saucily tossing her hair. It was times like these she really missed having it longer, but it couldn't be helped.
Harry's eyes lit up and then darkened considerably as his eyes hungrily roamed over her – as she knew they would — already trying to find a place on her to claim. He may protest his baser, needier thoughts most of the time, but she knew him and his desires. The idea of marking that which he loved was very masculine and she could admit it sounded good to her, too.
Ginny knew she thrilled at Harry's darkness sometimes, was that wrong? It sort of drove her crazy, even, in a small way and she knew she loved to bring it out of him. He was more commanding now, yes, (finally allowing himself to let go) but he was also so utterly…possessive. Ginny shivered as she realized why she probably liked it and suddenly her good mood left her. As the memory hit fully formed in her head, she felt her stomach drop. Next came an intense sense of nausea. No, that really couldn't be why, she thought. Brogan noticed the change in her immediately.
"Whoa, what…what did you just realize or remember? Or fuck,…no, no, Gin," he said, coming to her.
"What's going on?" Harry asked, confused by the sudden change, but immediately concerned.
Ginny felt a bit stronger as they held her, their touch soothing her as always. But it was too late. She closed her eyes and he was there – mocking her in that way he had always done; she was weak, she was a silly little girl, Harry Potter would never love her and she couldn't help it, her dinner was coming back up. She sobbed and broke away, hoping to make it to the toilet before it did. Ginny gagged and then fell down near the basin in the loo, almost making it. She felt hot and cold, and she shuddered as her body was wracked with post-vomiting convulsions.
Harry and Brogan were there, with her, but staying away as though afraid to touch her. She knew Brogan had caught a sense of her memories, or at least, had seen Tom Riddle in her head. She felt the kiss of magic over her and realized Brogan had cast a cleansing spell and she felt a bit better. Harry kneeled down next to her and tentatively touched her.
"What's wrong? Is it…is it something physical?"
Ginny shook her head, unable to speak, apparently. She closed her eyes tightly and gripped Harry's hand, pushing the memories back where they belonged. Brogan was suddenly touching her and she instantly felt calmer.
"Maybe you should just cry it out, and get it out of your system," he said softly.
Ginny knew he was right, but she didn't want to. She let them pick her up and carry her back towards the bed. Brogan went to make her some tea and Harry simply held her. She knew he wanted to ask her what had just happened, but he didn't, and she loved him all the more for it. And she knew she owed him some sort of explanation.
"It was nothing you did," Ginny started and then stopped. She took a deep breath and turned in his arms. His green eyes were full of worry and she also saw what she didn't want to see – fear. Fear that they'd done something to upset her, fear that something had gone wrong. She knew it was Harry's natural inclination to take things personally and to feel responsible for anything bad, and she didn't want that. She touched his face, wondering how she could make him understand.
"It was nothing you did. I was enjoying teasing you. Teasing you both. In fact, I was really getting excited by how…you were looking at me. It was so…." Ginny stumbled over the next word but she hoped he would understand what she meant and what it had meant to her at the time. "It was possessive, Harry, and I really responded to it, and then I wondered why, and I don't know, suddenly he was there in my head, from out of nowhere, telling me how silly and stupid I am, and-"
"Wait. Me looking at you like that caused you to…think about Tom?"
Ginny nodded. Harry closed his eyes and then swore harshly. She reached out, placing her hand over his heart. His eyes were full of pain when he finally opened them again, and she swore to herself. She knew she needed to reassure him.
"Harry, it wasn't you! It was me. My mind just went there…I don't know why. I suppose it was the talk about the marking and the darkness and seduction of it, and you do get a bit dark sometimes, you know, and I love it, usually, and-"
"You just mentally go to a place where Tom Riddle hurt you when I do it, that's fucking great, Ginny. Gods, I remind you of a monster."
Ginny stopped and closed her mouth as Harry looked away from her, hurt and confusion on his face.
"You do not remind me of a monster."
"No, just a manipulative, soulless husk of a human being who used you, possessed you, and made you do what he wanted. But why split hairs?"
"Tea," Brogan said, coming into the room. He gazed at them on the bed, clearly picking up on the emotions in the air. He floated a cup over to Ginny first and then Harry. "Both of you drink. Now. I know it's just bloody old leaves in hot water, but it helps, damn it."
Harry sat up and took his cup without saying a word, his face guarded. Ginny swallowed roughly, feeling her stomach start to heave again. Brogan touched her arm gently and she felt the anxiety sort of drift away for a bit. She raised her eyes to his and then tilted her head towards Harry.
Brogan moved to do the same to him but Harry glared at the other man. "Don't fucking try to make me feel better about this, Brogan." The teacup he'd been holding suddenly exploded, and Harry didn't even make a sound as the hot liquid scalded him. Ginny reached out to help him, but he stood up and rushed out of the room. A moment later, she and Brogan heard the door to the house slam.
"That could have gone better," Ginny said numbly as she sipped her tea. Brogan wavered in between the bed and the door, as though trying to decide which one of them needed him more. He finally sat down next to her and put his arm around her.
"He'll cool off, and then feel like a berk for getting angry when you feel so bad," Brogan said diplomatically.
Ginny didn't say anything and looked at the now drying patch of the bed where Harry had spilled his tea. She hoped so. She hoped she hadn't just irrevocably changed their relationship forever and broken Harry's heart by saying that something he'd done had reminded her of Riddle. Because she knew that whenever he looked back on this moment, it was what he would hear and believe, no matter how much she tried to explain otherwise.
o-o-o-o
Harry returned home late after wandering around for what felt like endless hours. Someone, probably Brogan, had left the fire burning for him and a light on in the kitchen. There was still a warm pot of tea and Harry poured himself a cup if only to feel the warmth of it between his hands.
Roisin meowed at him, coming into the kitchen through the pet door and he sat down to play with her for a moment. She swiped at his fingers playfully and when she was satisfied he was okay she trilled in that way she had and trotted back outside. Clearly, the adventure of the night was a bigger draw than Harry feeling sorry for himself.
He sat down at the table and drank his tea, noting the taste of lavender and blackberries. His head ached and his soul felt torn. Having the person he loved more than anything tell him that he reminded them of someone who'd hurt them was, without a doubt, the lowest Harry had ever felt in his life. Well, now and when Sirius had died. God, Sirius. There were times when Harry missed his godfather more than anything and this was one of those times. What he wouldn't give for some wisdom and facts of life a la Sirius Black, followed by loud barks of laughter right about now.
"Harry?"
Brogan's sleepy voice startled him out of his thoughts and he watched as the other man came into the kitchen, rubbing at his eyes.
"All right?" Harry asked.
Brogan nodded and padded over to the tea things, pouring himself a cup. He joined Harry at the table and reached out to take his hand.
"Shouldn't I be the one asking you that?"
Harry smiled and waited for the other man to take a sip before asking the important question.
"How is she?"
Brogan fixed him with a steady look. "She's fine. She was upset, not at you, but at the memory. She didn't mean to make you leave, you know."
Harry ran a hand down his face and sighed. "Yeah, I know. I felt like a git as soon as I'd walked off my…disquiet."
Brogan gently smirked at his word choice. "And how far away did your…disquiet take you?"
"First, I walked to our land and kicked a bunch of rocks around, that was fruitful. Also, painful for my toes. Then I somehow ended up near the castle. Hagrid and I scared the hell out of each other. I almost hexed him into oblivion and he almost set a tree crashing down on me. He wanted me to join him in his hut for some whiskey, but I begged off. It was probably the cleverest thing I've done all night."
"Go talk to her."
"She's awake?"
"We were both sort of in that semi-state of consciousness, keeping a wary ear out for your return." Brogan tilted his head as though trying to hear something. "Yeah, she's awake."
Harry finished his tea and nodded. Brogan gave his hand a squeeze and then gave him a tiny smile.
"I'll sleep in the other bed tonight, erm, what's left of the night, anyway."
"No, don't," Harry said. "You don't have to scarper and hide when…things happen between us."
"I know, and I appreciate you saying that," Brogan paused. "But I think you two need some space."
Harry nodded and ducked his head and kissed him. "Sweet dreams, then."
Harry entered their bedroom and could just make out Ginny's form curled up on the bed. He quickly undressed and then paused, still feeling unsure. She turned and he caught the look on her face and suddenly all he wanted to do was hold her. They moved towards each other and embraced as Harry felt some of his weariness leave him. Just to touch Ginny – to hold her and see the love in her eyes – that was all that mattered.
"I'm sorry I left."
"I'm sorry you felt you needed to," Ginny murmured, kissing him. "Harry, please know nothing you do could ever be like Tom. Nothing. You are nothing like him."
"Well, I'm a bit like him," Harry said, moving so she could fit in his arms. Ginny rested her head on his chest. "We're both half-bloods and we were both orphans and we both felt, for a time, as though Hogwarts was our only home. The only place we belonged."
Ginny frowned. "Those are all…surface similarities, Harry, and you know it."
"I know."
"Then why mention them?"
"Because, unlike Voldemort, I was taken in by a wonderful family. My best mate's family, actually. And not only did you like me and treat me as though I were just a regular boy, but you grew to love me and support me, and all any of you have ever done is accept me and that has made all the difference to this bleak, black heart of mine, Gin."
"You did do quite a lot of thinking tonight, didn't you?" Ginny asked, narrowing her eyes.
"I'm ready to listen to you now, let's just say that."
She gave him a small grin. "I can't really explain what happened, I just…something caused an old memory to surface. Or, perhaps, I don't know. I've been feeling strangely insecure about things I normally don't worry about."
"Yeah? Like what, exactly? That's not like you."
"Well, I was feeling frumpy and unattractive, mostly in my clothes, that is-"
"I think you know my answer to that problem."
"Harry." Ginny gave him a look that told him to shut it. Which he did. "And Brogan and I talked for a while, after you left, and he said he'd felt something similar, although his was a bit different. He was over-sharing with Sid, which he said is entirely unlike him. Have you had any weird emotional impulses lately?"
Harry thought about it. He didn't think he had but…he hadn't really been paying attention to himself in that way. Although he realized his earlier thoughts about sex and his need for it might count. Or maybe, it had something to do with the empathic abilities his lovers shared.
"Do you think you and Brogan are experiencing some sort of…I don't know, delayed reaction to everything? Because you got a touch of his abilities with the bracelet and right now his are in constant flux, or at least, it seems like it. Could what's happening to his magic be affecting yours?"
"He had a similar thought," Ginny admitted. She yawned then, and quite widely, too and Harry felt bad for staying out as late as he had.
"Let's sleep and talk more in the morning, love," Harry murmured pulling her into his arms so he could kiss her.
"Are we okay now, Harry?" Ginny asked, touching his face gently. "I didn't…I didn't do something to hurt us, did I?"
"We were never not okay, Ginny. I love you, and not much can change that, so you're still stuck with me."
"Where's Brogan?" she asked as they settled into more comfortable positions.
"He's in the other room. Just wanted to give us space to talk and be you and me, I reckon. You know how he is."
"Want me to get him?"
"Yeah. We could use his body heat. These sheets are bloody freezing."
She grinned and then he watched as she seemed to concentrate, her face somber in the half-light of the bedroom. She scooted closer to Harry after a moment, and the other man appeared in the doorway.
"Can't sleep one night without me, I see."
"Sorry, were you already asleep?" Ginny asked as she pulled down the sheets for him. He climbed in and settled on her side of the bed.
"Judging by how quickly he answered your summons, I'd say not," Harry yawned as he puffed the pillow behind his head. Ginny's exhaustion was quickly becoming his own.
"We are going to be so dead tomorrow," Ginny mumbled as they curled around each other.
Harry waved his hand to make the room go completely dark and sighed. "Good thing we're all menaces to society and don't have jobs, then."
Brogan snorted, and Harry felt him reach over Ginny to touch him. "Hilarious sod."
Harry grunted in response and started falling asleep almost immediately. He dreamed of chess pieces moving on a giant board and being chased by a gigantic piece of cheese, for some reason, and then finally, Harry dreamed of storms and of unknown things racing across the skies.
o-o-o-o-o
