A/N: This behemoth of a chapter has a bit of everything. And I apologize for the long wait for this update, things are less crazy but still scattered. Anyway, I will be working on the next chapter of Essence tomorrow. I would also like to thank bumlewis for the new cover art. Enjoy and as always, thanks for the R/Rs.
Chapter 5: Odd Happenings
"Welcome to your first flying lesson," Madam Hooch announced as she walked between the students gathered on the Quidditch pitch. "I know some of you already know how to ride a broom but…this lesson is for safety and for those who have never flown before."
Madam Hooch continued pacing between the two lines of students as she started reciting rules and proper handling of a broom. Harry and Ginny shared a mock yawn, tuning her out. Hooch called for them to stand beside their brooms as she passed Harry and Ginny.
"This is gonna be so fun," Harry whispered to Ginny. She had to cover her mouth to stifle her giggle as Madam Hooch walked by. Madam Hooch turned, giving Harry a frown.
"As some of you have heard," Madam Hooch continued, "Professors McGonagall and Sprout are in the stands hoping a few of you might be able to fill spots on the House Teams. We shall see."
"Great! Added pressure," Neville complained quietly.
"Relax, Nev," Harry whispered back. "Just fly like you do at the Manor…except better."
"Not helping, Harry," Neville glared at him, much to Harry's amusement.
"Madam Hooch?" Hermione called sounding nervous as she raised her hand. Harry leaned back so they wouldn't be caught talking as Madam Hooch spun around. "Do we really have to do this?"
"Yes, Miss Granger," Hooch answered with a frown at Hermione, who was still standing behind her broom. "Now. Step up to your broom, Miss Granger, so your right hand is over it. On my whistle, say 'up'."
Her whistle sounded shrill in the afternoon air. A chorus of voices called out. Harry and Ginny's brooms jumped into their hands on the first try. Neville's wiggled at first but jumped into his hand on the second try. Ginny looked across the pitch at a smug-looking Malfoy, who was holding his broom. She had to fight the urge to laugh as Parkinson's broom missed her hand to swing up to hit her in the face. Blood squirted from her busted lip and a broken nose. Malfoy had turned to Parkinson, with an evil-looking grin. He said something that had her glaring at him despite her pain. Madam Hooch waved the school matron Madam Pomfrey over to tend to Parkinson before turning back to the rest of the class.
"This is what happens if you are not focused," she called out loudly. "Now. Mount your brooms."
"Time for fun," Harry whispered to Ginny. She bit her lip to stop from giggling.
"No showing off, Harry," Neville grumbled at him.
"Who? Me?" Harry asked trying and failing, to sound innocent. Neville frowned at him. "What? Just 'cause I love flying, doesn't mean it's showing off."
"Kick lightly off the ground and hover in place," ordered Hooch. "I will come around and readjust your position if needed."
The students kicked off the ground, most hovering a foot above the grass. Neville wobbled slightly as he came to a stop six inches off the grass. Hermione was whimpering as she raised two inches. Luna rose the foot, waiting patiently for Madam Hooch to check her but also trying to ignore Harry and Ginny's antics with fighting her smile and giggles. Harry, however, was ten feet up, leaning casually on his broom with a grin like a madman. Ginny hovered about three feet off the ground with her head resting on her hand with her elbow on her knee. Ginny turned with a smug look at Parkinson who was barely staying on her broom. Parkinson glared back at Ginny as she tried to stay balanced.
Madam Hooch made her way around the students, correcting hand positioning and seating placements. She sighed as she came to Hermione.
"Not a flyer, are you, Miss Granger?"
"No, ma'am," squeaked Hermione. Harry, Ginny, and Luna had to stifle giggles at the look of terror on their friend's face.
"You're barely three inches off the ground," Madam Hooch sighed again. She shook her head before continuing to an unsteady Neville. "Better than I would expect from you, Mr. Longbottom."
"I've had some practice," Neville told her with a shaky voice.
"Yeah," Harry grinned as he floated down next to Ginny. "Practice falling off and running into walls."
Ginny had to cover her mouth quickly so she wouldn't burst out laughing. Luna buried her head in her shoulder, trying her best not to giggle. She didn't notice Madam Hooch step in front of her.
"Something wrong, Miss Lovegood?"
"No, ma'am," Luna looked up quickly. "I felt a sneeze coming. It's gone now."
Madam Hooch nodded with a frown, not really believing Luna. "Good placements." She stepped in front of Ginny, who had quickly schooled her features. "Excellent, Miss Weasley."
"Can we race now, Madam Hooch?" Harry asked as she stopped in front of him.
"Mr. Potter," Madam Hooch sighed. "Not every broom is made for racing. But yes." She turned back to the rest of the class. "Gently turn you brooms toward me. Line up side by side on the line. You will race from here to the goalposts, turn, fly to the other goalposts, then back here. On my whistle…"
Madam Hooch blew her shrill whistle.
Most of the students shot forward, Harry and Ginny leading the rush. Neville was swaying back and forth as he groaned trying his hardest to make an effort. Hermione, however, hadn't moved. She sat frozen on her broom close to Madam Hooch. The instructor turned to her with a shake of her head. She waved Hermione off her broom and off the pitch as Professors McGonagall and Sprout joined her.
"My, Potter can fly!" Sprout exclaimed as Harry weaved in and out of the goalposts before turning back.
"And so can Weasley," smiled McGonagall as they watched Ginny match Harry move for move.
Harry and Ginny shot past the professors at a very high rate of speed, almost blowing their hats off. They could hear the laughter from the two of them as they sped by. The professors glanced back at the rest of the students. Most were just managing to make the turn. Only three were halfway back to the mid-line as they turned back to the other side of the pitch to watch Harry and Ginny dip, dive, and weave around and through the goalposts.
"Couple of daredevils, they are," grumbled Hooch as she crossed her arms with a scowl.
"Well, Mr. Potter does come by it honestly," McGonagall chuckled. "Miss Weasley must get that from hearing stories of her brothers."
"Either way, Minerva," Sprout nodded, "you have a couple of naturals there."
"And I know just what to do with them, Pomona," McGonagall smiled smugly.
"Go easy on my Puffs, please," Sprout pleaded.
"We shall see," McGonagall grinned.
The professors fell silent as a laughing Harry and Ginny landed on the pitch. They started talking excitedly about the moves they had just performed with wide eyes and hand gestures. McGonagall listened as they went on and on until the rest of the students landed around the mid-line. Madam Hooch stepped away from the other professors as she blew her whistle to get attention.
"Well done, Potter, Weasley," she nodded at them. "Now, all Ravenclaw and Slytherin students are dismissed. Hufflepuff, line up to my left. Gryffindor to my right."
"Look at Parkinson and Malfoy," Luna whispered to Harry and Ginny.
They looked over to see Parkinson quietly yelling at the blonde Slytherin while swatting his arms every now and then to make her points stick. Harry and Ginny fought not to burst out in laughter as the other two Houses' students left the pitch.
"Wonder what Nana Minnie wants?" Neville whispered to Harry as they finally got control of their amusement. McGonagall looked at Neville with a stern frown, telling him she had heard him. Neville cringed under her stare.
"Gryffindors," McGonagall called. "I have two openings on the House team to fill. Our Seeker was a seventh-year last year, and one of our Chasers has been injured to the point of not being able to play this year. So…Any student wishing to have a short tryout, here and now, step forward."
"Harry," Ginny whispered loudly to get his attention. Harry turned to her. "Don't you think it's odd that a player is injured for the entire year? I mean, this is the Magical World…"
Harry looked at her thoughtfully for a few seconds. He raised his eyebrows as he realized how right she was. "We'll just have to make the team and figure it out."
Six students stepped forward, including Harry and Ginny. McGonagall smiled to herself as she pulled out a practice Snitch.
"Seeker hopefuls," she spoke clearly, "the first one to catch the Snitch will earn the right to practice with the team. Captain Wood will determine if you have what it takes." She let the golden ball go. "Five…four…three…two…go!"
The students kicked off the ground in a flurry of flapping robes. McGonagall watched with interest as Harry and Ginny looked around quickly. The others had all scattered to look for any sign of the little golden ball. McGonagall smiled to herself again as Harry and Ginny dove at the same time. They flew side by side, even with each other as they neared the Snitch. They bumped each other a few times, half-heartedly. This made McGonagall raise an eyebrow. That was something she would have to speak to Lily about. Harry and Ginny pulled up at the same time. Both had their hand clasped around something as they raised their arms.
Madam Hooch blew her whistle as Harry and Ginny landed beside her, presenting the Snitch together. Each had a look of shyness mixed with pleasure. McGonagall made a mental note to speak with Lily as soon as she could.
"Well done, Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley," McGonagall nodded. "Chaser hopefuls step forward." Ginny was the first to hurry forward. Harry a step behind her. "As you can see, we have a Keeper at those goalposts. You will take three shots each. In any fashion you wish. The one with the most goals wins the place to try for the Chaser slot."
Ginny hung back, letting the other students take their shots. Harry hung back with her.
"I really want the Chaser spot," Ginny whispered to him.
"No worries," grinned Harry. "I want the Seeker spot."
"Really?" Ginny looked at him hopefully. Out of all the other students, only Harry could give her any challenge to the position.
"Yes, Gin," Harry rolled his eyes at her. "Doesn't mean I'm gonna make it easy for you though."
"Potter, you're up," Madam Hooch called before Ginny could respond. Harry shot her a grin as Ginny gave him a blazing look. Ginny saw Harry take a deep breath with a little shake of his head as he flew over to get the Quaffle. She wondered just what that was about. Was Harry starting to crush on her as much as she was on him?
"You took his breath away," giggled Luna from close behind her. Ginny snapped her head around with an open mouth.
"I did no such thing!" Ginny argued as she blushed a fiery red.
"Keep telling yourself that," snickered Neville. Ginny opened and closed her mouth several times.
"Is this one of those 'Potters and redheads' moments you keep referring to, Neville?" asked Hermione with a sly grin at Ginny. Neville nodded as he chuckled more at the blush spreading over Ginny's face.
Ginny pointedly turned back to watch Harry as he flew toward the goalposts. Harry made all three of his shots, but they were lackluster in true skill. Ginny wondered absently if Harry was really trying or not. She was determined to make a spectacular shot or three just to get Harry back for his earlier comment about not making it easy for her. Harry grinned at her as he landed, but Ginny only gave him a smug smile in return.
Ginny hopped on her broom as Madam Hooch called her up. She took the Quaffle as her eyes darted around the Keeper for the right angles. Ginny thought this would be a good time to pull out some of her practice moves from her last night broom rides at Prewitt Manor. She took the measure of the Keeper as she shot forward for her first shot. Ginny noticed he was leaning slightly to her left. She smiled to herself as she flicked her broom left as she drew near, before switching back to score to her right.
"Nice move," Harry commented to Neville as they watched.
The Keeper, whose face was obscured by a face shield, look at her with a raised eyebrow as if impressed. You ain't seen nothin' yet! Ginny thought as she retrieved the Quaffle. She turned sharply as she sped up the pitch. She was halfway to the Keeper when she tossed the Quaffle straight up as she dove down. Ginny pulled up sharply, speeding after the falling red ball. She caught it but still continued her climb for another few seconds before diving in just behind the Keeper to drop the Quaffle into the hoop.
"Oh, that was brilliant!" Harry breathed in astonishment.
Ginny squared herself for her third shot. Her eyes never left the Keeper as she leaned forward gaining more speed. As she neared the hoops, she put her broom into a barrel roll to freeze the Keeper. When it looked like she was going to overshoot the goal before taking her third shot, Ginny fired a hard shot that went off the back of the Keeper's head and into the goal.
All of the students went silent as their mouth hung open with wide eyes. Even the professors were staring in shock at Ginny's final shot. Ginny landed near Harry with a smug smile.
"What was that about not making it easy?" Ginny asked as she put her finger on his jaw and closed his mouth.
"Mr. Potter, Miss Weasley," McGonagall cleared her throat. "The spots are yours."
The rest of the Gryffindors finally recovered from their shock enough to cheer wildly. Harry smiled as he hugged Ginny quickly. They both pulled away, blushing furiously before the other students began clapping them on the back.
Harry and Ginny sat down at the Gryffindor table the following Saturday morning discussing brooms because it was their first practice with the House team. Ginny was worried she couldn't get enough performance out of one of the old school brooms that she was using. Harry was trying to convince her that as much talent as Ginny had for Quidditch, she could ride a broken broom and still score ten goals in a match. Hermione and Neville rolled their eyes as Luna just giggled, shaking her head.
"Are you two done flirting over brooms?" Luna asked.
"Or would like to take your conversation to a broom cupboard?" Neville grinned. Hermione and Luna almost choked on their food trying not to giggle at Harry and Ginny's crimson faces.
"Oi! Shut it, you!" Harry frowned. "Post here yet?"
Neville smirked as he shook his head, looking at his watch. "About twenty seconds."
No sooner had Neville looked up from his watch, the screech of owls was heard overhead. Harry looked up as he recognized his father's owl carrying a long package. Harry looked confused as the owl landed in front of Ginny.
"Hey, Puns," Harry smiled as he gave the owl some sausage.
"Harry?" Ginny asked looking bewildered. "Why is your dad writing to me and sending a package?"
"Don't know," Harry shrugged. "Open it and find out."
Ginny frowned slightly as she opened the letter first.
Dear Ginny,
This is a congratulations gift for you making the House team! Have fun!
James and Lily
"What in Merlin…" Ginny mumbled as she opened the package.
Ginny's eyes bulged as she stared at the Nimbus 2000 sitting in the box. Ginny sat frozen until Harry lifted the lid slightly. He stopped turning to her shocked face.
"What did Uncle James send you?" Neville asked still confused.
"Ginny?" Hermione asked when Ginny didn't respond.
"Now you don't have to worry about the school brooms," Harry told her as he chuckled breaking into a wide grin.
Ginny slowly shook the shock off to broke into a huge smile of her own. She looked up at the Head Table, catching Lily's eye. Ginny mouthed "Thank you," to her. Lily smiled with a nod.
At first, the House team questioned Professor McGonagall's choice at two first years for the openings on the team, until they saw Harry and Ginny in the air. The other Chasers, Angelina Johnson and Katie Bell, soon warmed up to Ginny when she showed off her moves and flying ability. One of the Beaters, Jeff Albright frowned and complained about Harry until Wood let Harry chase down the practice Snitch. Harry caught it in under three minutes. Albright stood on the pitch with his mouth open in shock. Wood asked if the team had any problems with Harry and Ginny on the team after that. No one spoke, they just shook their heads with their eyes as big as Galleons. Harry and Ginny had just smiled at each other.
Over the next three weeks, the House team came to see Harry and Ginny as their secret weapons for the coming season. Ginny taught Angelina and Katie some of her more imaginative moves so they could use them during matches. Ginny was all smiles and laughter until the morning of Halloween.
Ginny came down the stairs staring at her feet that morning as if in a daze. Luna and Hermione were calling to her as they followed her down, but Ginny really wasn't paying any attention to them. Harry and Neville were waiting for them in the Common Room, as usual, and could tell it was going to be a rough day for all of them. Harry stepped in front of Ginny, making her look up.
"Huh?" Ginny looked up surprised. Her eyes met Harry's, breaking through the fog she had been in since waking up. "Morning."
"Hey, you alright, Gin?" Harry asked concerned.
"I'm fine," Ginny lied. Harry frowned at her. Ginny sighed knowing he didn't believe her. She looked down, her voice cracking a little. "Well…not really."
"Come here," Harry hugged her. "We're all here for you and Luna today, you know that."
"Thanks, Harry," Ginny nodded with a deep breath.
"That's get some breakfast," Harry suggested as he started leading her out of Gryffindor Tower by taking her hand in his.
Harry stayed by Ginny's side even more than usual throughout the entire day. Neville spent his time with Luna, giving her support. Hermione went from one to the other throughout the day to let both Ginny and Luna know she was there for both of them. Before class started, Lily stopped by Harry and Ginny's station. She placed her hand on Ginny's shoulder with a slight squeeze. When Ginny turned, Lily gave her a small, sad smile before moving to the front of the class. Professor Lupin surprised her when he paused by her desk to offer his encouragement. Professor Spears, however, had a slight smirk on his face all during class. Every time he would look Ginny's way, Harry would give the man a glare until he turned away.
That night at the Feast, Ginny sat quietly. She picked at her food, not really pay attention to any of the conversations going on around her. She startled when Harry placed a hand on her arm.
"You alright?" he asked.
"I…" Ginny sighed. If anyone could tell she was lying or upset by now it was Harry. "Can…can we just go to the Common Room?"
"Let's go," Harry nodded quietly.
Neville asked Luna if she wanted to leave as well. Luna just nodded. Neville motioned for Hermione to grab some of the treats as they stood.
By the time Neville, Luna, and Hermione arrived back at the Common Room, Harry and Ginny were cuddled on one side of the sofa by the fireplace, Ginny's head buried in Harry's shoulder. They could tell she was crying by the movement of her shoulders. Luna sat down, rubbing Ginny's back with tears of her own in her eyes. Neville sat down putting his arm around her. Luna leaned her head on his shoulder as she fought her own emotions about this day. Hermione shook her head before squeezing in-between Ginny and Luna. She gave Luna a gentle push toward Neville as she started rubbing Luna's back. Hermione just sat between her two friends, leaning on, or rubbing their backs in turn.
They sat like that for a long time. The other Gryffindors started filtering back in from the Feast but left them alone for the most part. The Quidditch team stopped by, each giving Ginny a hug or pat on the back to tell they were there for her as well. Wood went as far as to have the team surround them to keep others away. Soon the Common Room was quiet again as the other students went to bed. Ginny drew in a very deep breath before looking up.
"Thanks, Harry," Ginny swallowed. Her face was stained with tears as she looked at him.
"Anytime, Gin. Every year, if you need it," Harry told her honestly.
"Thank you," Ginny choked out as she hugged Harry again.
Luna had looked up at the sound of Ginny's voice. As Ginny hugged Harry, a bright glow surrounded them as they held each other. Luna turned to Neville and Hermione. They were staring at Harry and Ginny in utter shock. Luna pulled Hermione close to her.
"I think we just found a research project," Luna whispered to her.
"I believe you're right," Hermione nodded with wide eyes.
November started with a flurry of practices as the Quidditch schedule was posted. Wood had the team on the pitch three days a week for two weeks to get ready to play against Slytherin on the fifteenth. Katie and Angelina worked closely with Ginny to perfect her plays. Wood even barred the other students from watching their practices so as to prevent anyone from realizing just how good Harry and Ginny truly were. The beaters were getting their timing in sync with the Chasers as Harry played around with the practice Snitch. Wood certainly got a workout as the Keeper trying to stop Ginny's trick shots, not that he was complaining. If anything, he was loving every minute of it and encouraged him further.
The morning of the match dawned crisp and clear. Ginny awoke feeling energized and ready to play. She hopped out of bed with a spring to her step as she gathered her uniform for after her shower. By the time she was done Luna and Hermione were up and getting dressed. Ginny skipped down the stairs as she laughed at Hermione complaining about sports taking up her study time. Harry greeted Ginny with the now usual hug since Halloween as the three girls reached the Common Room. Neville rolled his eyes as Hermione continued her rant about not studying.
"Hermione, have you ever watched a Quidditch match?" Harry asked as he turned to her at the second switchback in the ramp shortcut.
"Well…no," Hermione admitted. "But…"
"Think of it this way," Harry cut her off. "We need things to keep us fit, to get fresh air, and to decompress after a long week or more of classes. Are you going to begrudge us that?"
"Well… no. But…"
"No buts," Ginny shook her head. "Stop with the study talk, Hermione. Enjoy some downtime."
"I'll try," Hermione acquiesced, sounding unsure.
"Who knows?" Harry shrugged. "You might like it."
They sat down at the Gryffindor table close to the rest of the team. Wood smiled as he nodded to them. Ginny glanced up at the High Table and stopped. Sitting between Lily and Professor Lupin was James Potter. He was laughing with Lupin about something as Lily was rolling her eyes. James looked over at the Gryffindor table just then, his smile becoming even larger. He waved at Ginny as his smile took on a prideful look.
"Harry, your dad's here," she breathed out.
"Brilliant!" Harry smiled as he waved at his father. "Mum must have told him when the match was."
"Don't see Uncle Sirius though," Neville chimed in. "Or my parents."
"Probably couldn't get the day off," Harry shrugged. He chuckled. "Dad will just share the memory with them anyway."
"Share the memory?" Hermione asked, intrigued. "How?"
Harry laughed. "I keep forgetting you don't know all there is to know about our World, Hermione," he held his hand up to stop her from being offended. "That's not a bad thing."
"Uncle James has a Magical basin called a Penceive," Neville explained. "They're rare and very expensive. A Witch or Wizard can remove or copy a memory that the basin's liquid will play like a…uh…what's that thing called again, Harry?"
"Oh, a VCR," Harry answered. He quickly turned to Ginny and Luna. "That's a Muggle recording and playback device. It's great having a Muggleborn mum. I get the best of both Worlds."
"I see," Hermione nodded. "I would love to see one."
"I'd love to see a memory of Harry as a baby," Ginny spoke with her cup close to her mouth. She realized she had said that out loud as the others stared at her. She gulped at the curious but blushing face Harry was giving her.
"Lions, let's go!" Wood announced as he stood, saving Ginny from any further embarrassment.
"See ya later," Harry waved, still giving Ginny a strange look.
"Wish us luck," Ginny smiled as she tried to quickly follow the rest of the team.
"Good luck," Hermione, Luna, and Neville rang out together as their smiles told Ginny they had heard her as well.
Harry stopped raising an eyebrow as he finally stopped staring at Ginny. "You know that was very creepy, right?"
"Yes," Neville grinned at Hermione and Luna as they answered, glancing at each other before giggling. Harry and Ginny just rolled their eyes as they started to follow the team again.
Ginny looked out of the tunnel at the huge crowd around the pitch. Wood had given a long-wind speech about performance and execution. Angelina and Katie had rolled their eyes, whispering to Ginny that his first match speech hadn't changed in two years. Harry hadn't been listening at all as he had played with a practice Snitch. As Ginny got her first look at the stands, the crowd was already cheering as a fellow Gryffindor, Lee Jordan, was commentating the match. He made the introductions for the Slytherins, much to most of the crowds' displeasure.
"Ready for this?" Harry asked with a smile.
"Not really, no," she gulped.
"Relax," Harry told her, placing a hand on her arm. "You're spectacular. Just show the crowd that."
"You're just saying that because…" Ginny started to tease him.
"Because it's true, Gin," Harry looked at her seriously. "My bias has nothing to do with it. This time."
Before Ginny could respond, Lee started making the introductions for the Gryffindor team. Ginny held her breath slightly, waiting for her name to be called. She knew with her fame the crowd was going to go nuts.
"Hey," Harry whispered to her. "If you think they cheer wildly at your intro, wait till you shoot one of your brilliant goals like you did in our practices."
Ginny chuckled. Harry was right. He usually was about this stuff. Ginny looked around noticing they were the only two left. She smiled gratefully at him as she got her nerves to settle.
"Wow them!" Harry nodded. "Let them know you're more than just the Girl-Who-Lived."
Ginny opened her mouth to respond but Harry's name was called. She watched as Harry flew out doing a barrel roll before stopping over the middle of the pitch. If Harry was going to show off a little, then so was she!
"And at third Chaser," Lee called out. "The one, the only…Ginnnnnnnnnny Weassssssssllllllleyyyy!"
Ginny shot out of the tunnel to the roar of the crowd. She didn't know why she had been nervous, the shouts and screams for her were exhilarating. She looked at Harry with a smug look as she pulled her broom straight up. She climbed slightly above the raised stands before doing a backflip into a dive that she turned into a corkscrew. When she was even with the rest of the team, Ginny hopped, placing her feet on the broomstick. She whipped around to stop, completely still in her slot between Katie and Harry.
Katie looked at her with wide eyes. Harry was chuckling. Ginny looked over at the Slytherin team to see them staring at her with their mouths hanging open.
"Now that's an entrance!" Lee yelled above the screaming crowd.
"How many goals you want?" Harry asked. Ginny eyed him for a minute. She knew he was that good to catch the Snitch whenever he wanted to. He was just giving her a chance to score.
"Gimme at least six, before you end this," Ginny winked at Harry.
"You got it!" Harry smiled back.
"Are they seriously flirting right now?" groaned Hermione.
"Are you joking?" Neville raised an eyebrow. "When don't they?"
"I think they're challenging each other to do better," Luna commented as she lowered her binoculars. "But yes, you could call it flirting because they want to impress the other with their skills."
Ginny swung wide on the opening toss of the Quaffle. Angelina snatched it from the Slytherin Chaser, then made a dive to fly low over the pitch. One of the Slytherins tried to block Angelina's progress only to have Angelina toss the Quaffle straight up into the waiting hands of Katie. With a slight nod, Katie told Ginny to fly as fast as she could at the Slytherin goal. Ginny scanned the Keeper's movements watching for any advantage she had. She grinned as she saw the right position to make a great goal.
She turned just in time to receive the Quaffle from Katie. The Slytherin Beaters were starting to close the gap between them. Ginny smiled to herself as she got within range of the blungers only to make a spin around the ball and the Beaters to look squarely at the Keeper. She faked to her right only to fly left. Ginny fired a hard shot off the Keepers back that bounced around the inside of the goal before falling in.
The crowd roared its approval as Ginny turned back to the midline. She looked at the Keeper who was staring at the goalpost in surprise. Ginny giggled as Angelina and Katie gave her high fives as they set for the restart.
"Nice one, Gin!" Ginny heard Harry holler as he sped by. Ginny smiled with a blush.
"Boy likes you, firsty!" Angelina teased.
"By the blush, she likes him back, Ang," giggled Katie. "Or are you forgetting all the time they spend together." Both older girls giggled as Ginny's blush deepened.
"Play six!" Wood called from the goalposts to refocus the girls.
Ginny didn't wait for Angelina or Katie to go for the Quaffle as Madam hooch tossed it into the air. She shot past the Slytherin Chaser like he was hovering. Ginny turned wide, circling the outside of the pitch near the stands. She could hear James Potter as he yelled enthusiastically from the guest section near the teachers. Ginny grinned. If she did end up with Harry someday, at least she wouldn't have to worry about his parents liking her.
Suddenly her broom jerked and then bucked wildly. Ginny had to drop the Quaffle to steady herself. There was a collective gasp from the crowd as her broom started thrashing about as if possessed.
"Why that…" Luna growled. "Nev, Hermione, come on!"
"What is it, Luna?" Neville asked as they ran down the stairs.
"Spears is jinxing Ginny's broom!" Luna called back to Neville as she jumped down four steps at a time.
They ran through the tunnel that connected the stands together to the stairs leading up to the stands.
"I'm here, Gin," Harry called from below Ginny.
She glanced down to see him and Albright circling under her in case she fell. She felt the broom thrash less. She wondered what was going on. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw a Bludger streaking toward her. Ginny duck out of the way just in time. Albright swatted the Bludger back at the Slytherin Beater who was laughing at her predicament. The Bludger shot between the Beater and the Slytherin captain as they continued to laugh oblivious of the oncoming Bludger. The solid ball hit both of them on their shoulders, putting an end to their laughter. Ginny's broom started to thrash again, even more violently than before. Ginny was thrown off her seat but managed to grab the broom with her right hand as she hung precariously in the air as the broom kept trying to rid itself of her.
Neville stayed by the door to the underside access to the stands, as Luna and Hermione weaved their way under Spears. Luna gritted her teeth as she could hear his mumbled jinx. Before Luna could pull her wand, Hermione shot a stinging hex into the back of Spears' legs. He broke the necessary eye contact to keep the jinx going on Ginny's broom but was now looking under his seat for the culprit behind the hex.
Luna grabbed Hermione, pulling her into the shadows away from Spears' eyes. The access door opened to reveal James Potter waving them out as he stood guard watching spears. Once they were out, Luna and Hermione ran back to the railing to join Neville.
The broom suddenly stopped thrashing, but Ginny was still slipping.
"I gotcha," Harry was suddenly beside her with his arm around her to help her back onto her broom.
"Thanks, Harry," Ginny smiled. An impulse seized control of her brain before she could stop it. She leaned over kissing Harry's cheek as she remounted her broom.
"Anytime, Gin," Harry grinned. He motioned to the Quaffle heading her way. With a giggle at the blush on Harry's face, Ginny caught the Quaffle smartly, shooting off toward the Slytherin goalposts again.
Making no fake or feint, Ginny streaked right at the Slytherin Keeper. He stared at her wide-eyed as she got closer and closer, not slowing down for anything. Ginny was two meters from him when he swung out of the way to avoid a collision, leaving his hoops unprotected. Ginny swung to a stop in front of the center hoop. She looked back at the Keeper with a smug look as she flicked the Quaffle into the goal with her fingers.
The match continued for another half hour until Ginny scored her sixth goal. With the nine from Angelina and twelve from Katie, Gryffindor had a commanding 270 – 20 lead. Ginny gave Harry a nod as she flew past him to the restart. Madam Hooch never made the tossup to restart as Harry dove, scooping the Snitch almost off the grass to end the match 420 – 20.
The crowd went wild with cheers as Ginny hugged Angelina and Katie. Harry and the rest of the team joined them at mid-pitch celebrating. Harry hugged Ginny as they celebrated their victory.
The good mood from the Quidditch match persisted into December as Ginny and Harry spent even more time together. They were often seen doing their homework in the library or the Common Room, with or without Neville, Hermione, and Luna. When they studying on their own, they would frequently smile and giggle at the other for comments only they understood. The classes were generally going great, with the exception of History of Magic. Professor Spears apparently had a suspicion of who had sent the Stinging Hex at him during the Quidditch match. He just couldn't prove it. He had taken to glaring at Hermione and Luna during class, which would make Ginny's scar burn more.
All of the other teachers were wonderful at their subjects and Ginny really liked most of them. McGonagall was strict but fair. Flitwick would always add a bit of humor into his lessons to make it more enjoyable. Professor Lupin was just a spectacular teacher with a wonderful sense of humor and fun. And then, there was Professor Potter. In class, Professor Potter was all business, but alone she was just Lily.
Lily had invited them all to visit her office or her quarters from time to time. Hermione and Luna were hesitant at first, but once they were behind closed doors Lily would drop her teacher demeanor to be just Harry's mother and Neville's godmother. They all enjoyed their visits with Lily immensely.
They would also visit Hagrid on the weekends to get out of the castle for a little while. Hagrid, Ginny found, was funny and had a great sense and love for all animals. Even the most dangerous ones. He loved dragons and would go on and on about them for hours. Hagrid was really sweet, but Harry warned them in advance not to eat his cooking.
As December started, talk of what Ginny's friends were going to do for the Christmas was a common topic among them. Ginny still wasn't sure what she was doing since she hadn't received a letter from her great aunt yet, but that was not unusual.
Ginny and Harry were just sitting down at the Gryffindor table as the post owls started delivering the morning mail. Ginny looked up to see her great aunt's owl swooping into the window. She raised an eyebrow in confusion. It was the first time since she had arrived at Hogwarts that her great aunt had written to her. Ginny offered the bird a piece of bacon, but it turned its head looking disgusted. She shrugged as she took the letter. The owl promptly flew away as soon as her hands were clear of it with the letter.
"Rude bird," Ginny grumbled.
"Letter from you aunt?" asked Harry.
Ginny stared at the letter as she nodded. A sense of dread came over her as she held it in her hand.
"Well, aren't you going to open it?" Harry asked. Ginny could tell by his voice he had picked up on her unease. "I mean, after months away, maybe she has something important to tell you."
Ginny shook the feeling away. Maybe Harry was right and her great aunt was sending her their plans for the Holidays. Ginny opened the letter curiously. Her eyes grow wide as she read.
3 December 1991
Ginevra,
I do hope you having a good first term at Hogwarts. I am very pleased with the progress reports I have received from Professor McGonagall. History of Magic could be better, however. Concentrate more on that subject. It is very important to know our History.
I would like to inform you, however, that I have made plans for Christmas and you will not be able to come home to Prewitt Manor for the Holidays.
I will be in Liverpool visiting my other nephew and his family. I will be leaving on the 12th and you are not due to arrive back in London until the 16th. I will not make two trips into London before Christmas, or after, for any reason. You will just have to stay at school or make your own plans.
I will see you at the end of term in June.
Yours,
Great Aunt Muriel
Ginny's eyes misted. Her vision blurred slightly as she felt the prickle of tears in the corners of her eyes. Ginny stood quickly, without a word, running out of the Great Hall as she stuffed the letter in her pocket.
"Gin?" Harry called as he watched her leave.
"Go, Harry," Neville nodded. "Pass me the Map, so we can find you. I'll have Aunt Lily met us in her office."
"Thanks, Nev," Harry nodded as he passed the Map to him under the table before grabbing both his and Ginny's bags.
Ginny ran down her favorite hidden passageway. Harry had shown it to her shortly after they had gone to the terraces back in September. There was a large Quidditch tapestry that they had visited several times just to see the players and their ancient moves. Ginny and Harry had spent many hours talking and doing their homework there just for some privacy when the teasing they always received got to be too much. But now Ginny came here to be alone. She sat opposite the tapestry with her legs pulled close to her chest. She leaned her head on her arms and knees crying.
She wished she knew why her great aunt never wanted her. Wondered why she had even bothered to take her in if she didn't care. It made no sense to Ginny. Her great aunt always complained about everything, but the last ten years rarely about Christmas. They had always had a good Christmas. It was the only time of year that her great aunt seemed to care, and now, she didn't want Ginny to come home for the Holidays.
"Hey, Gin," Harry spoke quietly as he sat down beside her.
Ginny felt his arm slid around her. Ginny sighed. Of course, Harry would know where to look for me, she thought as she leaned over on his shoulder.
"What's wrong?" he asked gently.
"This," Ginny sniffed as she pulled out the letter, handing it to him.
Harry took the letter without another word. He read over it quickly. At first, his jaw dropped at the bit of praise in the first part of the letter. He snapped his jaw shut as he continued to read, however. Harry's dislike for Ginny's great aunt grew more in just those few minutes than it had ever been before. He was about to speak when they heard footsteps coming.
"Hey, you alright, Ginny?" Neville asked.
"Whatever it is," Luna began as she sat on Ginny's other side, "we are here for you."
"No matter what it is," Hermione told her as she knelt in front of Ginny.
"Harry, I…" she gulped back a sob. She motioned to the letter. "Let them read it."
Harry nodded as Ginny turned burying her head into Harry's shoulder. Harry handed over the letter to Luna. "Read it to them," he mouthed as he pulled Ginny closer.
Luna watched them closely as the same glow appeared around them like Halloween. She turned to Hermione with a nod. Luna began reading the letter out loud. Her own anger growing as she continued. When she finished, Neville took in a deep breath with pinched lips as he turned away for a few seconds. They heard him mumble a long string of curse words. Hermione looked up at him in disbelief as the words came out of Neville's mouth.
"Neville!" Hermione admonished as he turned back.
"Save it for another time, Hermione," Neville frowned at her.
"Oh, Ginny," Luna sniffed as she leaned on her friend, offering what support she could.
"Gin?" Harry spoke quietly. Ginny looked up slightly. Harry smiled at her softly as he wiped her tears from her cheeks. "Come on. I have an idea on how to handle this."
"How?" Ginny asked with a hoarse voice.
"Come on, I'll show you," Harry stood, pulling Ginny with him with his arm still around her.
"Where are we going?" she asked as they started down the passage.
"You'll see," was Harry's only reply.
Harry knocked on Lily's office door. Within seconds, she opened the door with a smile on her face. One look at Ginny's tear-stained face made her smile falter into a look of concern. Lily ushered them in quickly. She motioned to the sofa and armchairs by her fireplace for them to sit as she brought tea and cups over from her desk. Harry guided Ginny to the middle of the sofa as he sat in the corner. Lily sat down next to Ginny placing a hand on her shoulder. When Ginny didn't look up, Lily turned to Harry as Neville handed out the tea.
"What's wrong?" asked Lily with worry lacing her voice.
Harry turned back to Ginny, whispering something. She nodded, handing him the letter again.
"Read this, mum," Harry told her. "You'll understand."
Lily took the letter, reading it quickly. Harry saw his mother's green eyes narrow.
"Excuse me for a few minutes," Lily stated as she stood. Harry followed her with his eyes as she went into the storeroom.
"What's she doing?" Hermione asked as they heard mumbled voices from the other side of the door.
"Probably called my dad," Harry answered.
"How?" Luna asked. "The fireplace is out here."
"They have other… more secure ways," Harry answered.
Ginny finally looked up at Harry for the first time since they arrived. She gave him a questioning look, but Harry only shook his head as he turned back to the door. Luna moved over to sit beside Ginny, rubbing her back. After a few more minutes, Lily came back into the room, walking straight up to Ginny. She took Ginny's hand, pulling her into a tight, loving hug. Ginny gulped back another sob as she returned the hug. Lily always made her feel loved, much more than her great aunt ever did.
"Don't you worry your pretty redhead about it," Lily soothed. "You have a place to go for the Holidays. And it's not here at Hogwarts."
Ginny pulled back to look up at her in confusion.
"I talked it over with James, and you will be joining us for the Holidays," Lily smiled kindly.
"But…"
"No. No, buts," Lily shook her head. "Forget the 'Potters and redheads' thing for a minute. Harry is your best friend and I happen to be his mum. We are more than happy to welcome you into our home for the Holidays and more."
"Thank you, Lily," Ginny choked out as she hugged Lily again.
"My pleasure, sweetheart," smiled Lily.
Ginny awoke the morning the students were leaving for the Holidays with a huge smile on her face. Just the thought of spending two weeks with people who actually cared about her and she liked was enough to put her in a great mood. It also helped that she had found a great gift idea for Harry thanks to Luna and Hermione. They had been up late talking a few nights ago when Hermione had pulled a Muggle catalog out to get ideas for her parents. Something had caught Ginny's eye. After that, only a short discussion with Luna to have her father send her something from home, and her shopping for Harry was done.
Luna and Hermione stirred breaking into Ginny's thoughts. She sprang out of bed to grab her clothes for after her shower.
"Someone's excited to be leaving," Luna teased.
"Really?" Hermione asked. "I couldn't tell by the bounce in her step."
"Oi! Shut it, you two!" Ginny stuck her tongue out at them as she walked into the bathroom. She stuck her head back out into the dorm room. "Even your teasing can't ruin my mood today. By the way, Luna, what did you get Neville for Christmas?"
Luna looked at her with wide eyes as her mouth worked by no sound came out. Hermione giggled loudly.
"And what did you get that Ravenclaw boy you fancy, Hermione?" Ginny asked with a smug smile and a raised eyebrow. Hermione's giggles died in her throat. "Yeah, that's what I thought."
Ginny giggled as she ducked back into the bathroom to avoid the two pillows that were thrown at her.
After getting dressed, the girls pulled their trunks down the stairs, giggling with each other the entire time. Ginny spotted Harry and Neville waiting for them in the Common Room. Her smile grew bigger as Harry stood from his leaning position on the back of the sofa to greet her with open arms.
"Morning, Gin," Harry smiled. "Morning, girls."
"You ever notice, it's always 'Morning, Gin', then 'Morning, girls'?" Hermione asked, looking at Luna. "She gets the first name greeting and we're stuck with a gender."
"Bit annoying, isn't it?" Luna asked in return.
"Give it up, you two," Neville rolled his eyes. He glanced at Harry and Ginny with a mischievous look. "Ginny has a huge advantage over both of you."
"What's that, Neville?" Hermione grinned, already knowing what Neville was up to.
"Please, tell us, Neville," Luna mock begged.
"It's simple," Neville shrugged. "Neither of you have red hair and Harry is unmistakably a Potter."
"Oi!" Harry laughed as he and Ginny threw a sofa cushion at a laughing Neville.
"We are standing right here, you know?" Ginny shook her head with a smile.
"Come on, let's get breakfast so we can get a good carriage to the station," Harry motioned to Ginny. "We can make sure Neville has a good seat."
"Yeah," Ginny smirked as the hurried to the portrait hole. As she was climbing out, she turned back to the others. "Right next to Luna."
Ginny and Harry laughed at the red faces of their friends as Neville and Luna stared at each other.
Ginny sat by the window on the train deep in thought. Harry had gone to the loo. Luna and Neville were deep into a conversation on plants and animals. Hermione had her head buried in a book. Ginny's thoughts were on her home, Prewitt Manor. As much as she liked the grounds around the manor and her room, it had never truly felt like home. Some of that feeling was the way her aunt treated her and the house-elves. The thought of the elves made Ginny smiled to herself. One elf, in particular, had always tried to make her smile and feel she was safe. Hoppet was a great friend and helper.
If she ever moved out of Prewitt Manor, Ginny knew she would miss the little elf most of all. But that was so far away that Ginny felt silly just thinking about it. On the other hand, Ginny was feeling that she was going home. Home with Harry and the Potters. Ginny snorted slightly. That was an obscure thought. She wondered whey she felt like she was going home to a place she had never been to before. Ginny thought that maybe it was because of how Lily treated her with such compassion since that fateful day in Diagon Alley, or maybe it was Ginny's own feelings for Harry that were the catalyst behind these strange thoughts.
"Earth to Gin," Harry chuckled as she startled.
"Huh?" Ginny blinked.
"Hi, welcome back," laughed Harry. "Where were you, the moon?"
"No, just…" Ginny paused, trying to collect her thoughts to sound even remotely coherent. "It's silly and stupid."
"Gin," Harry smiled softly, "Nothing you could say or do would sound silly or stupid to me."
Ginny glanced at the others to make sure they weren't paying attention. This was something she wanted to keep between her and Harry. "Lately, I felt like Prewitt Manor has been less than home. But there's one I would miss there. Hoppet. She's such a good elf, and my aunt just treats all of them like they're less than worthless."
"That's not silly or stupid," Harry shrugged. "If you care about Hoppet that much, of course, you would miss her."
"Besides that," Ginny frowned. "It's more the first part that's… well… silly and stupid."
"Odd, maybe," Harry shook his head but not silly, and definitely not stupid."
"You're just saying that to make me feel better," Ginny rolled her eyes at Harry.
"No," Harry disagreed. "Something to look into to find out why you're having these feelings, but if I was trying to make you feel better, I'd say something like, 'Hey, Gin? Did you hear Malfoy has purple hair? And Parkinson sounds like a bullfrog?'."
Ginny laughed loudly at that. "What did you do?"
"I may have slipped a dye capsule and an animal bit into their Cauldron Cakes, and I may not have," Harry told her with his best innocent look.
The train began to slow as it pulled into Kings Cross Station in London. Ginny looked out at the many parents waiting to pick up their children from the Hogwarts Express. Harry and Neville pulled all of their luggage down off the racks as the engine slowed further. Ginny chuckled as she spotted Lily and Erica's red hair waiting for them. Ginny had a random thought at that. She wondered what it would have been like to see a whole family of redheads waiting for her. Her face must have reflected the sadness of not knowing what that would have been like because Harry placed a hand on her arm.
"You okay?" he asked sounding concerned.
"I'm fine," Ginny smiled sadly. "Just thinking what it would have been like to see a mass of red hair waiting for me."
"Gin," Harry breathed as he pulled her into a hug.
Ginny just stood there, feeling safe and… What was the other emotion she was feeling? Ginny knew what she wanted it to be, but only being eleven and a half the "L" word was a ways off. Or was it? Ginny wasn't sure, but she knew this is the feeling she wanted to feel for the rest of her life.
"Thanks, Harry," she swallowed. "I needed that."
"I'm always there for you, Gin," Harry smiled at her. "Come on, mum doesn't like to be around the Purebloods much."
They followed Neville and Luna out of the compartment and off the train. Hermione walked slightly behind them, talking about her travel itinerary for her trip to the Swiss Alps with her parents. Ginny was only half-listening; she had heard it three times already in the dorm. She was too busy looking for Lily and Erica's red hair again.
Ginny turned at the sound of Luna's name to spot Xeno Lovegood waiting for his only daughter. Luna waved to him before hugging Hermione and Ginny. She carefully and quickly gave Harry a hug before turning to Neville. Ginny watched as Luna blushed madly at the tight hug they shared. Luna pulled back from him to wave as skipped over to her father. Xeno smiled and waved at her before they turned to leave.
Hermione turned to them. "I have to meet my parents on the other side of the barrier." She gave Neville and Harry a quick squeeze before hugging Ginny. "Have a very happy Christmas."
"You too," Ginny grinned.
They continued to weave through the crowd as Harry pointed the direction they had to go in to get to Lily and Erica. Finally, Ginny spied Lily's red hair in a gap of students crossing in front of them.
"Ginny!" Erica smiled as she ran up to her. Erica pulled Ginny into a hug. "It's great to see you! I'm so excited to have you with us at the Manor."
"Hi, Erica," laughed Ginny as Erica finally took a breath. "Hi, Lily. Thanks again for having me. It means a lot."
"You're more welcome, Ginny," Lily smiled giving Ginny a hug.
"Soooo," Erica started as they turned to leave after Lily and Erica had hugged Harry. "What's this I hear about spending all of your time together… alone, or with people, and the consent flirting?"
"Erica, not right now," Harry groaned. Ginny giggled and blushed as she turned quickly away from Harry.
"Oh, you two have bad, don't you?" Erica teased.
"Erica," Lily warned. "Now, gather round. We're taking the portkey back the Manor."
Erica giggled as Harry and Ginny stood close together while blushing, but smiling at each other.
After a spinning ride through the portkey, Ginny landed on something solid but soft. She was glad it was there or she would have smacked her face on the ground. Ginny opened her eyes expecting to see a cushion but instead saw a green pair of eyes staring back at her through round glasses. She blushed as she heard Erica laughing.
"We have to stop meeting like this," Harry joked, "or I'm going get hurt."
"But you're ever so good a softening my fall, Harry," Ginny joked back, making Harry blush as he smiled up at her.
"You two are gonna kill me over the Hols if you keep that up," laughed Erica. Harry turned to glare at his sister, who just laughed more. "Oh, just you wait til Uncle Pads hears about this."
"Enough, Erica," Lily frowned at her daughter. She leaned down to help Ginny up. "Please, don't take her seriously. She's a bit too much like her father at that age."
"It's fine, Lily," Ginny smiled. "We hear worse from Luna, Neville, and Hermione."
Before Lily could respond a crack was heard behind Ginny.
"Harry, sir, is home!" a high voice shouted, follow a grunt and laugh from Harry.
"Hi, Dobby," Harry grinned.
Ginny looked at the small elf that had wrapped himself around Harry's neck. He was as small as Hoppet but much more excitable. Dobby's large bat-like ears wobbled as he nuzzled Harry's cheek. Ginny noticed that the elf was wearing what looked like a suit made in his size. Harry let go of Dobby with a huge grin.
"I missed you, buddy," Harry smiled. "I want you to meet somebody." Harry gently turned Dobby around to face Ginny.
"The great witch Ginevra Weasley," Dobby breathed reverently. "It is a great honor to meet you, miss."
"Dobby," Harry quietly got his attention. "Ginny doesn't like the fame. And she's just a normal witch, not the fairy tale witch from the books."
"Oh, Dobby is sorry, miss," Dobby turned back looking very apologetic. His large tennis ball-sized green eyes were brimming with tears. Ginny took pity on the small creature and knelt down in front of him.
"Hi, Dobby," Ginny smiled. "It's alright. You didn't know. I'm very pleased to meet you." Ginny extended her hand.
"Oh, miss! You are as great and kind as the other elves at Hogwarts say," gushed Dobby shaking her hand vigorously. Ginny giggled.
"Dobby," Lily called. Dobby shook out of his reverence to turn to her. "Why don't take Harry and Ginny's things to their rooms."
"Of course, Mrs. Lily," Dobby bowed slightly. He gestured his tiny hand at their trunks before popping away with them.
"Now, then," Lily puffed. "Sorry, Dobby's… excitable."
"He's like that because of the way he treated before," Harry frowned darkly. "Still own Draco a good thrash for that."
"Harry," Lily warned.
"Mum, we have been over this," Harry raised his hand. "I won't start anything with the little ponce, but if he starts it with me, I sure as Merlin will finish it."
"What happened?" Ginny asked as they walked toward the huge manor.
"I caught Malfoy kicking Dobby at a family party," Harry shrugged. "I stopped him; our dads got involved. Dad pretty much forced Mr. Malfoy into freeing Dobby. We hired Dobby to be my personal elf."
"My aunt doesn't even treat her elves like that!" Ginny raged.
"Well, as you can see, we treat our elves like employees, not slaves," Lily smiled tenderly. "Anyway, Ginny, welcome to Potter Manor."
Ginny turned to look at the large house for the first time. It was more of a castle than a manor. The house was six stories tall with two offset wings on the huge center portion. The rough and smooth grey stones were covered in ivy up to the bottom of the ground floor windows. Two large columns framed the huge two-story tall oak front doors on either side. The columns had intricate carvings in their rich white marble that wound all the way to the top where they connected to the overhanging covered arch.
"Wow!" Ginny breathed. "And I thought Prewitt Manor was impressive."
"You haven't seen anything yet," smirked Harry.
Lily opened the front door to reveal an entry hall of white and black marble. An enormous set of stairs was on the back wall with a lush red carpet running up the center. Hanging above the center of the room was the largest chandelier Ginny had ever seen. It was even bigger than the one in the Entrance Hall at Hogwarts.
"I'd give you a tour of the outside, but…" Harry trailed off.
"It's December," Ginny nodded.
"Come on, I'll show you the way to your room and then I'll give you a tour of the inside," Harry smiled.
Ginny was still in awe of the gigantic house that Harry and his family lived in as she woke up Christmas morning. It had taken Harry an hour to show her just the essential part of the manor, and they hadn't even gone past the third floor. Her room was three times the size of the one she had at Prewitt Manor. There was a sizable sitting area, a bathroom with a tube that could fit four adults, and a walk-in that was the size of her dorm room at Hogwarts. Her bed was a large queen size with rich red and gold sheets and duvet. The carpet was a crimson red with a gold lion embroidered in the center of the room. The small library of books would keep Hermione and Luna busy for a month trying to read all of the books.
A grin spread across her face as she thought about what day it was. She rolled over to look at the clock on her side table. It was still only half five in the morning, but Ginny wanted to be up early every Christmas. She swung out of bed, grabbing her dressing gown as she headed for the door.
Ginny knocked lightly on the door next to her room. She heard a grunt before opening the door with a flourish. Harry was still in bed, with his back to the door as she walked in. Ginny had spent several nights while she was there sleeping on his coach because they had been up so late talking or watching movies on his Muggle television. Ginny smiled at the genius Lily Potter was. Most Wizarding households couldn't use Muggle technology, but Lily had found a way.
Ginny jumped hard on the bed, making Harry bounce.
"Huh? Wha?..." Harry sat up startled. "Gin!"
"Happy Christmas, Harry!" Ginny half-yelled at him.
"Oh, it's morning," Harry looked around confused. "Why is it still dark? What time is it?"
"Half five," Ginny smiled. Harry looked her with wide eyes before flopping back on his pillows and trying to pull the duvet over his head with a groan. Ginny grabbed the duvet and pulled it back. "Oh, no you don't!"
They pulled the duvet back and forth, laughing at their play fight. Harry gave a hard yank, catching Ginny off guard. Ginny's face ended up only inches from Harry's. They froze, staring into each other's eyes. Harry gulped viably as their laughter suddenly died away. Ginny was so lost in Harry's green eyes that she didn't hear the door open. Someone cleared their throat loudly. Harry and Ginny jumped back, looking at the door in shock.
"Oh, Pads is gonna love this," James snickered. Professor Lupin was standing just behind him covering his mouth, trying his best not to laugh. Lily stood to James left with her arms crossed over her chest, a raised eyebrow, and a smirk on her lips.
"Oh…uh…hi, mum… dad… Uncle Moony," Harry gulped out.
"Something you two would like to tell us?" Lily asked still with that smirk plastered on her face.
"No…no," Harry and Ginny told them quickly as Ginny jumped off Harry's bed.
"Uh-huh," Lily nodded. "That's why we've found you two sleeping close together in your lounge four of the six nights we've been home?"
"Or this adorable moment…" James interjected.
"Caught on camera!" Erica held a camera up to her father. Harry and Ginny looked at each other with red faces and gulped again.
"Uh…" Ginny tried.
"P…Please, don't…" groaned Harry, looking imploringly at his sister.
"Erica," Lily looked her. "That picture stays here!"
"Fine, mum," Erica sighed rolling her eyes.
"If you two are done flirting," grinned James, "it is Christmas morning…"
"We're coming, dad," Harry hurriedly nodded as he jumped out of bed on the other side, grabbing his dressing gown. He stood with his back to the door and Ginny as he slipped it on.
Ginny raised an eyebrow to Harry as he cames around the bed. Harry looked at her with wide eyes and a pleading look that told her not to ask. Ginny smirk as she quietly giggled.
She waited until his parents were turned before leaning over to whisper to Harry. "For me?"
"Uh…erm…" Harry gulped turning red then white.
Ginny couldn't help the loud giggle that escaped her mouth.
Harry and Ginny followed Erica and the adults downstairs to the parlor, where the tree was set up. As they entered, Ginny got her first look at the piles of presents under the gigantic tree. All six of the Potters' house-elves were waiting patiently for them to get comfortable around the tree so they could pass out the gifts. Dobby smiled broadly at her as she sat next to Harry.
Cricket, the head elf welcomed them to the parlor with cheer as most of the elves passed out tea and scones. Dobby and another elf, Ginny had not seen yet, waited for the signal to start handing out the mounds of gifts. Soon Cricket nodded to Dobby.
"Thank you, Dobby," Ginny smiled as he brought one of hers to her first. "Happy Christmas."
"Oh, Happy Christmas to you as well, Miss Ginny," Dobby beamed.
"Save mine for last?" Harry asked Ginny.
"Only if you do," Ginny grinned. Harry smiled with a nod.
When all the gifts were handed out, the elves sat down with the family to open the ones they had received. Dobby was the most excited to get his gifts. Ginny giggled every time he would jump up to hug the person that had given it to him, thanking them over and over.
Ginny started opening her presents after getting a nudge from Harry. James had gotten her a new set of real dragon-hide Chaser gloves. Erica gave her a target, like the one she had gotten in Diagon Alley in August. Ginny opened a book about potions from Lily, with a note in it saying they would talk about certain ones later. Ginny flushed at the thought of what those potions were. Prof…Remus had given her and Harry the same book on advanced hexes and jinxes. Ginny picked up her next gift. She was surprised to see it was from Sirius and Marlene Black.
"Harry," she whispered to him. He looked from the book Remus had given him. "Why did your godfather send me a gift? I haven't even met him yet?"
"That's just Uncle Pads and Aunt Marley," Harry shrugged. "They knew you were coming so they sent you something."
Ginny nodded. She opened the squarish present to find a broom service kit. Harry snickered, pointing to his own service kit. Ginny giggled. She picked up Erica's gift next. With care, since Erica had already pranked her once since they arrive, Ginny opened the wrappings. She held the flat box out slightly as she opened it. Inside was a red and green jumper with "GW" embroidered onto the front. There was also a small note saying, "NO PRANK, SIS-TO-BE." Ginny giggled. No actual prank, but something to make her blush. Erica looked up with that mischievous grin of hers. Ginny closed the box before Harry could see the note.
"Last one," Ginny smiled at Harry. He sat up with her gift to him in his hands. "You first, Harry."
"Alright," Harry shrugged.
Ginny watched him closely as he opened the wrappings. Harry broke into a wide grin when saw the framed picture of Ginny.
"Thank you. I love it," Harry told her. "I know just where to put it when at home and school."
"By your bedside?" Ginny asked, only half-teasing.
"You bet!" Harry smiled at her. He motioned to the small package in her hands. "Well, go on then."
Ginny opened the paper quickly to find a deep red velvet box. She pried the lid up slowly. Inside was a charm bracelet with three charms. A broom, a Quaffle, and deer. Ginny knew what the broom and Quaffle were for, but not the deer.
"A deer?" Ginny asked confused.
"It's a stag, actually," Harry chuckled. "It's part of the Potter Family Crest. It's to let know, no matter what, I will be there for you."
"Oh, Harry! Thank you," Ginny gushed as she placed a kiss on his cheek before hugging him.
Across the room, the adults and Erica looked up on shock as a bright glow filled the room.
"What in Merlin?" James whispered to Lily.
"If I knew, I would tell you, Jamie," Lily shook her head. "I think I might want to spend some time in the library tomorrow."