A Second Chance

by Breanie

Part 2 Kismet Trilogy: What if Sirius didn't spend twelve years in prison but was given a trial after 4 years? Follow the story of Sirius Black as he learns what it means to be a father/brother/guardian & the story of Harry Potter, a young boy with a loving home who learns about the Marauders from the two men who should have raised him. Slow-burn Hinny. M for sex & violence.

356. The One With the Dickwad

Author's Note:

FINAL COUNTDOWN! 4 MORE CHAPTERS TO GO!

Reviews and Comments: To Tmrpotterhead250: Thank you! I'm glad that Hermione found her parents as well. I had fun forming the five-year plan and showing how the wizarding world plans on fully rebuilding and putting Voldemort and the war behind them. Sorry, but we won't be seeing the trials in action (at least not in ASC). Yes, Harry, Ron, and Hermione moving in together will be good for them. Yes, I think a lot of people knew it was coming, but I wanted to show that Theo came from love, from good people and not his asshole father. It was kind of morbidly funny that Cantankerous died after discovering the truth lol. Yes, Aster was killed in what was claimed to be a potions accident. Thank you! To LadyKital: Thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying Theo's sections. There is a fair amount of Theobas in this chapter as the last few bits are wrapped up. Thank you! To ThomasJAvery: Yes, I think everyone knew Thelonius was going to turn out to be Theo's father, but it's still a nice surprise. Yes, all of the purebloods are related in some way. Aster is the great-niece of Draco's grandmother. Evan Rosier was her brother. Thank you for loving the Hinny part as well as the Ministry part. Thank you so much! To alix33: Bas and Theo definitely have loads more shagging to do lol. Yes, Harry and Ginny know there are places they can surf in Britain, they've talked about it, but clearly haven't had the time to check them out. Thank you!

To Cassiopeia Anastasia Black: I am happy for Theo as well. As sad as her story was, he feels better now that he knows everything. Thanks for loving the Ministry planning as well as our happy couples planning for the future. Thank you! To lynnanthony2015: Yes, I think a lot of people wondered and like I said, it was one of those loose ends I needed to tie up. Thank you very much! To Sets: Lucius definitely might have suspected and yes, it was part of why he always went to bat for Theo. Thank you! To Katie2001: Because you know my writing style well? lol. Thank you! To Padfoot777: Thank you! I'm glad you loved the bit about Theo's real father! To scrappy8: Yes, Theo has discovered he had two parents who truly loved him. Thank you! To darkhk: Sorry to make you sob. Thank you! To ellyann13: Thank you! To MissKnowItAll: I'm glad they will get to spend more time together as well. Thank you! To Slaidback: I know, only five more, hard to believe! Thank you! I will do if I ever go that way. I love Taikia Waititi and his brand of comedy. He gives me Mel Brooks vibes and I'm a huge fan. Thank you! To wildstyle_101: Thank you so much! I did want to hit you in the feels so I'm happy I succeeded. Thank you! To GABRIELAGPGP1988: Thank you very much!

To 19HuffleClaws: When I renamed the DRCMC to the Department for the Reconstruction and Cooperation with Magical Creatures it was to explain how they were changing the department for the better, to make it about communication and cooperation and reconstructing how everything was being done before. It's about change for the better. Thank you for saying I'm your favourite and that this is your favourite story! Thank you! To AQuickRead91: Thank you! Yup, only 5 more to go! To marauders_mowopapr: Yes, poor Aster. And Theo did get peace of mind, but it is a lot to process for him. No, he won't be going public with it. It's all private to him and either way he's the last Nott. We will get to see the reaction of his friends as well. Thank you! To mike3308: It is terrible why happened to Theo's mother, but she did find some happiness in her affair. Hermione's parents will need some time to really forgive her, but right now, they are just happy to see their daughter. Thank you! To Levs23: We are in the final countdown and yes, the Evil Trio are lurking around. Bas does need to stop thinking about his awful ex, but sometimes it takes a while for those insecurities to truly disappear. Harry and Ginny are making plans and yes, the golden trio will be back together soon. Thank you! To Read and Fly: Yes, the story of Theo's mum was very heartbreaking. Thank you for saying it was beautifully written. Don't we all wish we could have a holiday like Hinny lol. Thank you very much! To Ian: Happy Birthday! Thank you!

To Nightwing2013: It was a biscuit reward and they did many things lol. Thanks for liking my CBC discussion. It's fun to try to show what the magical world is attempting to change. Thank you for enjoying my world building. Yes, Cèline did pawn Thelonius off on the house elves just as Thaddeus did to Theo — interesting, isn't it? Theo did get a bit of his wanderlust from his father. I'm very sorry to hear about your mother. Thank you! To pix25: Thank you! I love knowing I can still provide a few twists here and there. To George R: Thank you so much for saying that my "absolute talent as a writer to weave and pen is amazing." You're too kind. Thank you so much! It's so rewarding to know that something I wrote has made people weep both sorrow and joy. Thank you! To EnigmaticEmperor: Sebastian does feel completely at ease with Theo and that's important for both of them. The Grangers are willing to forgive Hermione, but it won't be an easy road for any of them. It was very important for Hinny to talk about everything. Ron totally wants Ginny to join the Cannons lol. Thank you for liking my five year plan for the Ministry of Magic. Hogwarts will be open to all and yes, teaching the bits of magic they can as some is unique to magical beings. Yes, Aster's diary was heartbreaking, but Theo feels lighter after learning that Thaddeus was not his real father. Thank you! I have a few more loose ends for Theo's story (this chapter has most of them). Thank you!

To Nuno Neves: Thank you! I'm excited to share more Hinny and Romione and all of that. I'm glad the Theo plot twist took you by surprise. Thank you! To Sloopyqueen4: Aww, I love that it had emotional meaning on a personal level to you. Thank you very much! To the Mandalorian terminator: The letters were fun and heart wrenching to write. I'm glad the little twist took you by surprise. Ron and Hermione both needed to have that chat with the Grangers. Thanks for loving my additions to the Ministry of Magic! Thank you! To ascfan: Thanks for enjoying me tying up the loose ends. Thank you! To tim2604: So glad to see you catching up! Yes, Harry and Ginny are definitely the ultimate power couple and them on the bike together one hundred percent exudes fucking sexy energy lol. Yes, it was a crucial and devastating scene for Theo, but so important! I think him discovering he didn't come directly from Thaddeus is a blessing and kind of an ultimate fuck you since he took on the mantle of Norfolk when in theory, it was never meant to go to him. A blessing in disguise that his parents' death made happen for him. Thank you very much! To BadWolfKris: I'm so happy for Theo as well! Thank you! To pottermum: Thank you! It was nice to give Theo some much needed and unknown closure. Thank you! To AnaGPotter: I completely understand that life gets busy (for us all). Thank you so much!

To MotherofKatie: It is nice to see Theo know he comes from a much nicer human being. Sebastian will definitely be there for Theo, he loves him and he knows he needs him to be there for him. I think house elves do make babies, but not necessarily do families stay together is all. Thank you! To Endinium: Thank you for loving everything I've done with Theo's story. Thank you! To reginaphalange: Thank you! I do think it was bittersweet. Hinny are so happy and so in love and it's fun to write them just getting to spend time together. Nothing really to worry about. Thank you! To katelyn453: I know, me neither! I am excited. I have the first six chapters complete and am hoping to get a good chunk of the story complete before I even consider posting. Thank you! To Masonjar191: We are all so glad that Thaddeus is not Theo's real father. Thank you! To GryffindorHealer: Thank you for all of the kudos! To TatiRena: Thank you for saying that Theo discovering his real father was so beautiful. Thank you!

To ravenclaw_rockchick: Wow! Thank you for such a long and beautifully written review! There is only five chapters left, it's hard to believe! Yes, Theobas will be in part three. I'm so glad that you love them so much! It is a lot for poor Hermione to deal with and it's going to take some time for all of them to make sense of it all. Harry and Ginny are definitely having a blast in Barbados. It's been averaging about -7 here so I can understand that completely. Calling for snow tomorrow. As to Ginny, we will see how that works. Ha, McGonagall definitely would want to hold onto the cup even longer! Scuba diving, skinny dipping, and shower sex — yup, perfect Hinny day lol. It was fun to write the changes the Ministry of Magic has planned and to show how they are going to work together to implement these changes and try to make the world a better place. I love showing the Weasleys teasing Percy and Bill really is like a big brother to everyone. I did love starting and ending the chapter with Theobas. Aster had a very hard life and it was so important to show her struggles and how being a mother to Theo was one of the only good things that kept her going. Both Theo and Thelonius were raised by Kiki, Esmerelda, and Clove which says a lot about how they became to be such upstanding young men. It broke his heart to learn the truth, while also was a relief. Thank you very much!

To Bellmel: Theo is a beautiful and sweet adorable boy and he totally deserves all of the hugs! I really loved getting the chance to have him discover the diary. To read about the heartbreak his mum had and yet despite it all, she fell in love with a kind man who turned out to be his actual father. It was so much love and like Jily, had a terrible end (despite getting a few extra yers). Having those letters from his mum and dad is a blessing and you know he will treasure them. As to Hermione and her parents, you're right, she's been carrying around a lot of guilt for a long time and she needed this moment with them. They all have a lot of work to do. Haha, Harry and Ginny's normal discussion being about having your own manor and becoming a professional athlete is fair lol. Thank you so much! I am not a huge political person myself, but I felt including some of it was very important to the story so I'm so glad you've enjoyed the way I incorporate it into the story. Jones is very genuine in what he said and he and Jameson are going to do their best to bring about a better world. This is the chapter you've been waiting for, Bell! As to the pool scene, well, this one was salt water so Ginny didn't have to worry about the chlorine taste lol. Sebastian is totally and madly in love with Theo and it makes my heart sing too! Thank you!

To Wolf's scream: Ron was definitely going to stand up for Hermione! He knows how hard it was for her better than anyone. There is progress for the Grangers, little by little. Haha, yes Percy's attitude did survive unscathed lol. It was a huge relief to Theo to learn the truth about his dad. Thank you! To decoy73: The Slytherins in Azkaban did commit crimes. Unfortunately despite the pressure they were put under, they do still have to do time. It won't be for decades, but it's like being pressed into a gang, they still did the crime. You want someone to crap themselves to death? Um, that will not be happening. Thank you! To Lilyx1202: We do have a Harry and Zee moment coming up soon. Thank you!

My posting schedule: Weekly.

Thanks to Dusk for her amazing editing skills.

As always, thank you very much for reading and please, please review!

Your reviews give me life! They give me inspiration! And they make me want to keep writing for more than just myself! Thank you for all of your continued support!

---

CHAPTER THREE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-SIX:

The One With the Dickwad

Harry and Ginny spent the last few days of their holiday alternating between taking motorbike rides, surfing, and lounging on the beach. They ran on the beach almost every morning, though sometimes they didn't make it out there until well into the afternoon. They made love and swam and made love some more.

When Harry woke up next to her on their last morning there, he buried his face into the crook of her neck and pulled her close. He was ready to go home and yet he very much didn't want to leave here. He loved waking up with her every day with no real plans outside of spending time with each other.

Ginny stretched out next to him, her hand sliding over his chest. "Morning."

"Morning," he said, kissing her forehead. "Run or breakfast?"

Her brown eyes twinkled in mischief and before he could say anything, she'd straddled him on the bed, pinning his arms over his head.

"I have a different idea," she whispered, placing a kiss on his shoulder, his collarbone, and then slowly down his chest. When her lips brushed over his tattoo and down his hip, he moaned.

"Gin…"

Those dark eyes met his before her mouth closed around him and Harry thought her plans were most definitely better than his.

Afterwards, Ginny pulled him to his feet and they went for a five kilometre run on the beach followed by a swim in the ocean. They returned to the house and Harry made Flo's infamous breakfast hash. Ginny moaned appreciatively with every bite and Harry wondered if his girlfriend was aware that some of the sounds she made eating good food equaled that of her having an orgasm. He watched her in amusement, pleased that she was enjoying the food he'd cooked for her. When she moved to clean up since he'd cooked, he grabbed her around the waist.

Ginny laughed as he pinned her against the wall of the kitchen, his lips moving to her neck. "We have to clean up, Harry."

"After," he murmured near her ear. "First it's my turn."

He lowered himself to his knees, kissing her through her bikini bottoms and her head fell back against the wall. She was already writhing against him by the time his tongue found her and when he wrapped her legs around his waist, shoving his own swim trunks down, her nails dug into his arse as he took her right there.

They were both breathing heavy when they finished, Ginny's legs locked around his waist still. Harry kissed her deeply, resting his forehead against hers.

"If I move, I might fall over."

She chuckled, trailing her nails up his spine. "You can't stay inside of me forever."

"I can try," he teased, capturing her lips in his again.

They stayed there against the wall, kissing again and again, before Harry reluctantly let her go, extricating himself from her. She whimpered as he lowered her to her feet and then tugged her bikini bottoms back up. He cupped her cheek, his fingers trailing over her throat as he kissed her over and over.

"I love you."

Ginny smiled up at him, brushing her damp hair out of her face. "I love you, too."

They cleaned up their breakfast and then went upstairs to shower before deciding to go surfing once more. They spent almost three hours riding the waves and when they returned to the Potter villa, they changed out of their bathing suits and packed up their things.

"This was exactly what I needed, Harry," Ginny told him as she tossed her bag over her shoulder with her shrunken surfboard propped up against the wall by the door. "It's what we both needed."

"It was," he agreed, grabbing the last of his own things. "We'll come back again. Just us, maybe next summer."

Ginny stood on her toes to kiss him. "Deal."

Then she tackled him back to the bed and they made love once more, lingering with long kisses and soft touches. They showered again and got dressed, sharing one more long kiss before they grabbed their bags.

They did a double check on their belongings before they met Basil outside in the front garden so that he could return them to Clevedon Court. Ginny used the Floo to return to the Burrow, stealing one more kiss from Harry, and when she disappeared in the green flames, he sighed in contentment. It had been the exact break that he'd needed.

He brought his bag upstairs, deciding to leave his surfboard in the master bedroom. He wouldn't be needing it again anytime soon and there was no point in bringing it back to Sidmouth with him. He'd just returned downstairs, his bag on his shoulder, when he saw Basil waiting for him.

"Basil," he greeted kindly. "Is everything all right?"

The elf pulled on his ears beneath the hat he wore before he stood tall. "I is wanting to speak with you, Master Harry, Sir."

Harry raised an eyebrow, dropping his bag to the ground. "Of course. What can I do for you? And please, just Harry."

Basil frowned. "Master Harry, I is knowing there's been lots of changes at Clevedon. I know Dobby was important to you. He was a good elf, Sir, the best. I is learning so much from him, Sir."

Harry swallowed. Dobby had been a good elf and he was ashamed to say that he sometimes forgot the elf was gone. "He was, yes."

"I knows you is making him your personal elf, Sir, and that worked for you. But now it's just Basil, Sir, and I is loving taking on all of the Potter properties."

"But it's too much for you," Harry said.

"Oh, no, Sir!" Basil exclaimed, shaking his head in horror. "Oh, no, never, Sir! I is loving looking after them all! I just wants to know, Sir, I wants to know what you is wanting Basil to do specifically, Sir."

Harry nodded, understanding what the elf was talking about. "Ah. Because before Dobby was in charge of Clevedon and you took care of the rest."

"Yes, Sir."

Harry let out a slow breath. "Well, to be honest, Basil, I'm not really used to having a house elf around all of the time. I'm hoping to move in here full time in the next few months and I'm pretty self sufficient on cooking and whatnot. But, I'd love it if you could keep doing what you've already done and maybe help me with the horses sometimes if I need help? Especially with me not being here all the time."

"Basil would be honoured, Master Harry, Sir! Basil loves taking care of the horses, Sir! And what about Kreacher, Sir?"

Harry frowned. "Kreacher?"

Basil nodded enthusiastically. "He is always coming in and out to help clean, Sir."

"He is?" Harry asked in surprise. "Why?"

"Kreacher says that you are a noble part of the House of Black, Master Harry, and it is his duty to look after you, Master Harry, Sir."

Harry wasn't really all that surprised to hear that Kreacher had decided to help out, but he was surprised by the elf's words. "Oh, well, that's kind of him. Um, do you have a problem with him doing that, Basil? Does he get in your way?"

"Oh, no, Sir, not at all, Sir! Basil likes Kreacher! He's rather grumpy and Basil finds it fun, Sir!"

"Well, good," Harry said, not really sure what else to say on the matter. "So, we'll leave him to do his thing, then, but if he gets in the way, you have authority, all right?"

The elf bowed. "Basil is honoured to be your servant, Sir."

"Speaking of that," Harry began. "Did you go to the Ministry like I asked?"

Basil nodded enthusiastically. "Basil did, Sir! Basil and Dobby made Kreacher come with us months ago, Sir. Kreacher grumbled the whole time, but he did register himself, Master Harry. I is registering too! And Dobby too, but that was before Dobby is… I miss Dobby, Sir."

"I miss him, too, Basil. Thank you for registering."

"Yes, Master Harry, Sir. I is excited to register my job as Harry Potter's elf, Sir! Basil thinks the payment is too much though, Sir."

"It's not," Harry insisted.

Basil tugged on his ears nervously before he nodded. "Harry Potter is most generous and kind, Sir. I is loving being Harry Potter's let, Sir."

"Good," Harry replied awkwardly. "Well, if that's all, I'm going to head back to Black Cottage."

Basil wished him good day and Disapparated. Harry shook his head as he bent down to retrieve his bag. Sometimes house elves were more work than not, he thought. He decided to Apparate back to Black Cottage, instead of using the Floo, and when he stepped through the front doors, he could hear Zee scolding one of the twins.

"No! We do not touch that! Those are Mama's figurines. No!"

He grinned and headed into the sun room in time to see Mina standing on top of the ottoman, trying to reach the figurines of magical creatures that Zee collected. He scooped her up into his arms and flipped her upside down, kissing her belly and she laughed in delight.

"Hi, Mina! Did you miss me?"

"Ah-ree!"

He kissed her cheeks and then grabbed Leo as he came toddling out of the kitchen, greeting him the same way. He kissed Zee's cheek when he put Leo down.

"Hey, these two causing trouble?"

"More and more every day," Zee groaned, hugging him. "How was Barbados? I see you have a great tan."

"It was perfect," Harry told her, his lips curving. "We surfed. We explored under the ocean. We went on a jet ski. We took some motorbike rides. It was exactly what I needed."

"I'm glad," Zee said. "But I'm also happy to have you home. Your NEWTs results arrived yesterday." At his look, she gestured towards the kitchen. "I put them with the mail."

Harry hurried into the kitchen, suddenly feeling rather nervous to see his results. There was a stack of mail with his name on it. He sorted through the offers from agents asking him to consider signing with them for Quidditch teams (as much as he loved Quidditch, he had no desire to play professionally, nor did he think he had the love of it enough, not like Ginny). There was some junk mail, a few messages from Gringotts about accounts he would have to go over, and then when he saw the Ministry seal, he dropped the rest of the mail on the table, using the letter opener to break the wax seal.

Dear Mr Potter,

Here are the results of your Nastily Exhausting Wizarding Tests.

Defence Against the Dark Arts — O
Transfiguration — O
Potions — E
Herbology — O
Charms — O

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Henry Richardson
Department of Education
Ministry of Magic

He bit his lip, turning to see Zee standing in the doorway of the kitchen.

"Well?"

"Exceeds Expectations in Potions."

Zee grinned. "The rest Outstanding?"

He nodded and she let out a tiny whoop, moving to hug him. "Oh, sweetie, I'm so proud of you! With test scores like that, you can do anything!"

Harry sincerely hoped so. "What about the E in Potions? I thought Aurors needed top marks?"

"Overall," Zee told him. "The Outstandings balance out the Exceeds Expectations and besides, you defeated Lord Fucking Voldemort, Harry. There's no way the Academy isn't going to accept you even if you tanked your exams."

He couldn't help but grin at that statement. "That's probably true."

She laughed and hugged him again. "Now, tell me what you want? I'll cook your favourites tonight in celebration."

Instead of answering, Harry tugged her close and spun her out into a dance, making her eyes light up. "Can we invite Uncle Rem, Tonks, and Teddy?"

"Absolutely," Zee told him.

Harry spun her out again as Mina tugged on the leg of his trousers. He picked her up to let her join in the dance as Zee grabbed Leo and he thought, yeah, he was glad to be home.

~ ASC ~

The last person that George expected to find sitting in his kitchen when he came home was Oliver Wood. He had a beer in front of him at the island and was snacking on the tortilla crisps and salsa that was in two bowls on the countertop. He grinned at the sight of George and lifted his beer.

"George! We were just talking about you," Oliver exclaimed.

George moved around the counter to kiss Angelina, keeping his arms around her waist. "Were you?"

Angelina elbowed him lightly. "Stop being territorial."

George kissed her cheek. "Just want Wood to remember you're mine."

Oliver chuckled. "You two are great together. How's the shop?"

"Great," George said, moving to take a seat at the counter. "Things are really turning a profit."

"And the leg?"

George shrugged. "Still missing."

"Haha," Oliver said, rolling his eyes. "Still have a crappy sense of humour, I see."

"Better than your speeches," George shot back, making Angelina snort.

Oliver grinned. "I knew you two never listened to me."

George helped himself to some tortilla crisps and salsa. "So, what brings you by?"

"He came by to see me, actually," Angelina said, her eyes twinkling. "He wanted to talk to me about his agent."

"He sucks," Oliver said. "Like I don't trust anything he has to say kind of sucks. His name is Harlow Monroe and he's the bloke who signed me straight out of Hogwarts. He put me through the training camp and helped me sign with Puddlemere, but my contract with him expires in September and I'm looking for someone new."

"What's wrong with Monroe?" George asked. "It sounds like he got you a pretty good deal."

"I thought so," Oliver agreed. "Until I started chatting to my team. It turns out that Monroe is taking way more of a cut than he should be. Not to mention that he hasn't been doing anything to help me do more. Other players are doing merchandising and charity events and endorsement deals and I've had nothing. Not that I want to be in everyone's face, but I don't want to miss out on any opportunities either. You know, I only ended up at the PQTC tryouts because my coach approached me and said that he was surprised my agent hadn't brought it up. Your sister killed it, mate."

George grinned. "She's pretty incredible. We're still blown away by her talent."

"Someone is definitely going to snatch her up before the camp is done," Oliver told them. "An arm like that? She's amazing. It's like she has a sixth sense when it comes to passing the Quaffle and such quick hands. Obviously Quidditch talent runs in the family. Can you imagine if she and Potter have kids? The talent that fucking kid would have?"

Angelina chuckled. "Only you would go there, Oliver."

He gave them a sheepish look. "I'm just saying, there's no way that child wouldn't be a Quidditch prodigy."

"Can we not talk about my sister having kids anytime soon?" George asked.

Oliver took a swig of his beer. "Fair enough. Angelina was just telling me what her plans are."

"If Oliver signs with me."

George's eyes lit up. "As your first client?"

She nodded. "Yeah. He's considering it."

"Best move ever," George declared. "You know she will kill it for you."

Oliver took another sip of his beer. "When I heard you took a job in the Department of Magical Games and Sports, I was immediately intrigued. We were all heartbroken when we found out you had to quit, Angelina. You were a great Chaser."

"Thank you," she said. "It broke my heart to quit, but to be honest, I'm more excited about this. I didn't think I would be. George and I spoke in length about it because he was worried that it would be too hard for me, but I think this is where I'm supposed to be. My agent wasn't great either, Oliver. She did her best, but when it came down to it, she did the best by her, not by me, and as someone who was a player, even for such a short time, I think that gives me an insight that not many agents have."

"Go on," Oliver said.

"You're right about the events. Whether you're interested in attending them all or not, you should be informed about all of them. As for merchandising, with George having the shop, I think that we can use that to our advantage. Have you show up there for publicity and you can sign autographs. You could even be part of one of the products."

Oliver's lips twitched. "Trusting the Weasley twins? That might be a step too far."

George laughed. "You trusted us on the pitch."

"Yeah, because I was the Keeper and you weren't batting Bludgers at me."

"Fair point," George teased.

Oliver tapped his fingers on the counter. "Honestly, Ange, I don't think you have to sell me. I trust you. I played with you for years and if you can't trust a teammate to have your back then I don't know who to trust. Work up some paperwork and come the first of August when my contract is done with Harlow, I'm all yours."

Angelina let out a whoop of delight, moving around the counter to hug him. "You won't regret this!"

Oliver laughed as he hugged her close. "I know I won't. Angelina Johnson, Quidditch Public Relations Agent to Oliver Wood. It has a nice ring to it."

She kissed his cheek. "I think it sounds perfect!"

George moved to the ice box to grab them all another beer, placing them in front of them. "It sounds like the start of something great. Let's celebrate."

When they clinked bottles, George thought it was definitely something great and he loved seeing his witch smile again. No one deserved this more.

~ ASC ~

Everything was in place. In fact, everything was so in place that Theo thought it couldn't look more perfect if he tried.

The sun was shining, the gardens were in bloom, and the ballroom was decorated exactly the way that he had imagined it to look.

He couldn't wait for Spencer and Sadira Kane to walk through the doors and see the amazing anniversary party and vow renewal that had been planned for them.

After meeting them, Theo had to admit they were pretty amazing. They were warm and fun people with big smiles who had immediately made Theo feel welcome from the moment that he had walked through the door. He wanted to return the favour by making sure that today was the day that they had always dreamed of and more.

He'd been nervous to meet them, despite the mini introduction to Sadira at St Mungo's, and they'd been nothing but kind to him from the moment that he and Sebastian had stepped into their home. The house was quaint and warm and Spencer Kane had greeted him with a warm hug.

"Theo! We're so pleased that you finally convinced Sebastian to bring you over. We were beginning to think that he was holding you hostage."

"Da," Sebastian groaned, rolling his eyes. "We've been busy."

Spencer kept his arm across Theo's shoulders. "Busy, he says. Bollocks! He's worried we'll embarrass him."

"Will you?" Theo asked, curiously.

Spencer grinned, his blue eyes so like his son's twinkling in delight. "Absolutely! Sadira, come meet Bastian's Theo!"

Sadira was wiping her hands on her apron as she came out of the kitchen, a wide smile on her pretty face. "Theo, dear, so lovely to see you again!" She kissed both of his cheeks before taking his hand. "Come, sit! Would you like some tea? Wine? Beer?"

"Tea will be fine, Maman," Sebastian said, moving to hug his father.

Once they were settled in the living room, Theo held his tea cup, unsure what to do with his hands.

"So, Theo, how did you and Sebastian meet?" Spencer asked.

"At the Ministry of Magic," Theo told them. "He yelled at me."

"I didn't yell at him," Sebastian interrupted. "I… he was in my way."

"He growled," Theo said, smiling at his boyfriend. "And then he brought me cappuccino after my Wizengamot sessions."

"You're in the Wizengamot?" Spencer asked.

"I am, Sir," Theo replied. "For over a year now. I accepted my seat when I took over Norfolk."

"Norfolk… bloody hell, Bastian! You didn't tell us that you were dating a marquess!" Spencer exclaimed, jumping to his feet. "We would have made the place cleaner for you, Lord Norfolk!"

Theo chuckled. "Theo is perfect, Mr Kane, and your home is lovely."

"Spencer," he insisted, a warm smile on his face. "You'll call me, Spencer."

Sadira smiled. "So, our son met you after the Wizengamot and you started dating?"

"Eventually," Theo said. "It took him a while to ask me out. Months, actually. I didn't even know that he liked me. I called him Auror Arsehole."

"Sebastian!" Sadira lectured. "Were you rude to this sweet man?"

"No, Maman."

"A little," Theo teased. "But he came around."

By the time dinner was served, Theo was convinced that they were the nicest people he had ever met. They told him stories about Sebastian when he was younger and pulled out photos. Theo was charmed when he heard that Sebastian had called his sisters "Seen and Ray-Ray" for years, unable to pronounce their names properly. He laughed when Sadira showed him photos of Sebastian naked in the bathtub and of him dressed in her clothes having tea with his sisters.

"Those girls convinced him to do everything," Sadira said affectionately. "He just wanted to play and didn't care what they forced him to do."

Spencer talked about his shop and filled Theo in on some of the strange things he tinkered with or fixed. Theo laughed until he cried and when Sadira hugged him close and told him that he made her baby happy, he hugged her back, surprised that he didn't want to let go.

"Sebastian, darling, you'll bring him to our anniversary party," Sadira insisted.

"He'll be there, Maman," Sebastian promised. "Actually, Theo's been a great help with everything. You're going to be blown away by how beautiful everything is."

Spencer slipped his arm around his wife's waist. "Nothing will be more beautiful than the woman at the altar."

Sadira's eyes softened as she kissed her husband's cheek. "Such a sweet talker."

Theo was hugged by both of them again before they left and Sebastian draped his arm across his shoulders.

"Well, that wasn't as embarrassing as I expected."

Theo grinned up at him. "Your parents are amazing and you were the cutest kid!"

Sebastian rolled his eyes. "She totally brought out the naked baby photos on purpose. My mother's a menace."

"Baby photos?" Theo teased. "I liked the one of you when you were eight standing starkers in the living room wearing a cape and a crown. What did your mum say again? You declared yourself a king and said that all of your subjects were to be starkers because clothes were itchy?"

Sebastian blushed. "I can't believe that she took photos of me like that!"

"You were so cute!"

"Let's talk about something else."

Theo grinned and stood on his toes to kiss him. "Thank you for bringing me to meet them."

Sebastian held him close, his forehead against his. "Thank you for coming to meet them."

From that moment, Theo had been insistent on making sure the anniversary party was even more magnificent than planned. Thirty years together was a huge accomplishment and Theo was determined to give them the best party and vow renewal he could. Thirty years meant the colour green and after talking to Selene and Soraya, they decided to go with green and gold.

The ballroom was glittering in gold lights with green decorations. Green tablecloths adorned the tables and covered the chairs with gold bows. The plates were gold and the crystal glasses sparkled in the light. The napkins were gold with green stripes and the centrepieces were elaborate glass cubes with green edges filled with gold lights and a photo of Spencer and Sadira on their wedding day thirty years prior. The glass cube floated over a bouquet of white lilies and green roses with sweet peas sprinkled throughout. Each bloom had a pearl in the centre to signify thirty years of marriage.

The full windows bathed the ballroom in sunlight and the chandeliers would fill it with soft golden light when the sun went down. The ballroom doors opened to the garden where Theo had the path strewn in rose petals leading to a beautiful rose arch. Chairs were set up to witness the vow renewal, all covered in gold with green bows.

It looked magical.

Theo let out a slow breath as he adjusted the black bowtie he wore over his dress robes. He'd chosen slate grey robes to wear with a white silk shirt. He carefully fixed his belt just as Sebastian came out of the bathroom, dressed all in black. Theo thought he looked amazing. The dress trousers were snug, showing off the muscles in his thighs and backside. He wore a slate grey silk dress shirt beneath the black jacket with no tie.

"I'm not sure about the silk," Sebastian said, turning to look at himself in the mirror.

Theo moved to stand next to him, slipping his hand over his hips. "I am. You look delicious."

Sebastian grinned. "I don't know if delicious is the vibe I'm going for here."

"You look peng as fuck."

His eyes heated. "I do like the feel of the silk against my skin, I'll admit. It's just not my usual style."

He fiddled with the buttons, leaving it open at his throat and Theo leaned in to kiss him there.

"I wasn't sold on the no tie thing, but I totally take it back."

Sebastian chuckled when he sucked on the skin there. "If you leave a mark for my mother to see, you're in trouble."

Theo winked in response and played with his bowtie. "How do I look?"

Sebastian let his eyes travel down Theo slowly before he cupped his arse in both hands. "Delectable." He nipped at his ear. "You're keeping that bowtie on later."

Theo laughed and slapped Sebastian on the arse before moving away from him. "Promises, promises! Come on! People should be arriving soon!"

Sebastian let him lead him downstairs and into the entrance hall just in time for Kiki to let Beaumont DeRose step through the doors with his two daughters.

Beau whistled as he looked around the front hall. "Well, I think this is a good improvement, n'est pas?"

"I thought so," Sebastian said, moving to give his brother-in-law a one-armed hug. "Beau, this is my boyfriend, Theo. Theo, this is Beau, my brother-in-law."

"Nice to meet you," Theo said, shaking his hand. "And this must be Piper and Amara."

Amara, a little over two years old, was snuggled into Beau's arms but Piper, who was four, jumped up in excitement. "Uncle Bas! Uncle Bas!"

Sebastian scooped her up into his arms, kissing her cheek. "Hi, Pipes! You look beautiful."

She preened in her beautiful puffy ball gown in purple and gold. Her dark hair was pinned up in curls and tied with a purple ribbon. Amara matched her attire except she wore a purple headband over her short dark curls. Piper spoke in rapid French that charmed Theo.

"Oui," Sebastian said. "This is Theo. If you go with him he'll show you the ballroom."

Piper beamed and grabbed Theo's hand, dragging him off. Theo was pretty sure he fell in love with her right there. She continued to ramble off in quick French, occasionally throwing in some English that surprised him as she oohed and ahhed in excitement at the decorations that her Granda and Grandmère were going to love. It was only a moment before Sebastian came in with Beau and Amara.

"Selene and Soraya were getting your parents ready, but they should be here any minute," Beau told them. "Waouh! Très magnifique! Sadira and Spencer will adore it, Sebastian!"

"I think they will," Sebastian said. "Theo deserves all of the credit."

"It's amazing," Beau told him.

"Thank you," Theo said. "You're American?"

"Guilty," Beau said, flashing dimples in his cheeks. "Born and raised in New Orleans, but I moved to France when I was thirteen and attended Beauxbatons. I've never quite lost the accent no matter how flawless my French is."

Sebastian moved to pluck Amara from Beau's arms, kissing her cheek as he spoke in quick French to her. The little girl smiled and then Theo's eyes widened when Sebastian merely placed Amara into his arms.

"Oh, erm, hi," Theo squeaked in surprise.

Sebastian leaned in close to him. "When you squeak like that, it makes me want to do all sorts of naughty things to you. Behave."

He pinched his arse and Theo squeaked again, making Sebastian wink at him. Theo blushed and made a point not to look at his boyfriend as he greeted the little girl in his arms.

Ten minutes later, Kiki informed them that Spencer and Sadira had arrived. Theo left the girls with their father, moving with Bas to greet his parents. They were looking around the entrance hall, their eyes wide.

"Bastian, Selene was just telling us you chose this place and my goodness, it's gorgeous! It's too much!" Sadira insisted, moving to kiss her son's cheek.

"Not at all," Sebastian told her. "And I can't take the credit, Theo offered it to us. This is his home, Maman."

Sadira's eyes widened in surprise. "Your home?"

Theo nodded. "It is. Welcome to Norfolk Manor. When Bas told me that he and his sisters were stuck trying to find a place, I thought this would do. I've been doing my best to help your children plan everything."

Soraya snorted. "More like he came up with half of the ideas and we loved them. Maman, I think this is going to be everything you wanted."

"And more," Selene added. "Can we show you in?"

Sadira moved away from her husband to take Theo's arm. "Please, lead the way, Theo."

Theo beamed as he opened the doors to the ballroom to show her what they had planned. Sadira gasped and Spencer stood next to her, his eyes wide.

"Holy Goddess!" Spencer exclaimed. "Theo! This is… wow!"

Theo blushed as they moved into the room and he turned when Selene touched his arm.

"It's perfect, Theo. Thank you for dealing with my madness the last few weeks."

She kissed his cheek and Theo thought that alone was a win. When Sebastian's parents saw the setup in the garden for the vow renewal, Sadira cried, hugging him tightly and kissing his cheek.

"Oh, you have such a lovely heart, my dear! Such a warm, lovely heart and I am so blessed to have you in my son's life. In our life." She cupped his face tenderly, pulling him closer to her level. "Thank you!"

She grabbed Sebastian a moment later and pulled him close.

"This one is special, my darling. You make sure he knows it and you'll live a long happy life together."

"I know, Maman," Sebastian said, kissing her cheek.

Sadira shook her head. "No, he's perfect for you, Bastian. You marry this boy."

Sebastian blushed but she was already moving on to Soraya, tugging her close and hugging her tightly as she whispered words of thanks.

Theo took Sebastian's hand in his. "What did your mum say to make you blush?"

Sebastian shook his head and stole a quick kiss. "Nothing, baby. Thank you for all of this. You've made my parents very happy."

"It was my pleasure," Theo said sincerely, smiling when Spencer stole him away to talk about how great everything looked.

When the guests arrived and he watched them renew their vows, Theo couldn't help but wipe away a tear as they promised to love each other for another lifetime. They had a buffet dinner rather than a sit down meal as people ate and danced and drank. Theo was positive that the Norfolk ballroom hadn't seen anything so beautiful and so good in eons. The ballroom was full of life and music and activity and after being dormant for so long, he knew that it was the most love and joy the room had seen in decades. He was so proud to use the room for something good for once.

When the sun set, the golden glow of pink and orange was a beautiful backdrop through the windows in the garden as people danced in and outside. A dozen children were there, running and dancing, some sleeping in their parents laps or arms.

When he wasn't checking with the house elves to make sure things were going smoothly, he was pulled into conversation by strangers who told him stories about Sadira and Spencer, talked about Bas as a child, and charmed him with smiles and compliments. He danced with Piper, Soraya, and Selene. Soraya was more than a little tipsy halfway through the event and snogging some tall blond bloke by the bar, laughter in her eyes. When Sadira asked him to dance, he couldn't stop smiling as he twirled the woman around the ballroom and she told him how honoured she was that he would put on this amazing show for her and her family.

"You make him smile," Sadira said, her eyes on Theo's. "You cared for him when he was injured and that stubbornness you shot back at him told me everything I needed to know. You love him."

"I do," Theo said, his cheeks heating. "Very much."

Sadira smiled. "My darling boy deserves that love and so much more. The way he looks at you reminds me of how Spence still looks at me. A love like that… thirty years later and I don't have a single regret."

"It's only been a few months, really," Theo admitted. "It's too fast."

Sadira patted his cheek affectionately. "If it's tomorrow or ten years from now, you are already welcome in our family, Theo. Now, go find your man and make him dance with you."

Theo kissed her cheek and she beamed at him. He found Sebastian dancing with his father. The two of them were laughing, twirling each other around the dance floor like children and Theo merely stood back and watched them, a huge grin on his face. How could he not be in love with a man who slow-danced with his father at an anniversary party? He watched Spencer's eyes light up when his wife approached him and Sebastian kissed his mother's cheek before leaving them to dance. Spencer held his wife close, his lips in her hair as they slow-danced across the marble floor as if they were the only two in the room.

Sebastian caught sight of him and held his hand out. "Dance with me."

"Your mum told me to make you dance with me."

Sebastian's quick grin made desire curl in his gut. "So, dance with me."

Theo let Sebastian pull him into his arms. "Kiki has all of the rooms set upstairs. Piper and Amara have the room next to Beau and Selene. You parents have the room next to them and I put Soraya on the same floor as us in the room that Blaise always stays in. I thought she'd like it best."

"It's perfect," Sebastian told him, kissing him softly. "Everything tonight has been perfect. You didn't have to provide rooms for them tonight. Everyone is used to squishing in at my parents' house and Soraya was going to stay in my flat."

"I wanted to," Theo said. "I have the room and it just seemed easier."

Sebastian pressed his lips against his again. "Thank you. For everything."

Theo smiled in his arms and thought it was perfect and he couldn't be happier.

~ ASC ~

The summer seemed to go by quickly after returning from Barbados. Harry spent his time playing with Mina and Leo, and when he wasn't with them, he was holding Teddy and spending time with Remus and Tonks. Ginny had decided to visit Charlie and Aydin in Romania and left a few days after they returned home. Ron and Hermione returned from Australia a few days after that.

It was how Harry and Ron ended up sitting out in the treehouse late one night in mid July drinking beer a few days after their return. Ron filled him in on their trip and told him all about the COMA.

"It's great that they were so helpful," Harry told him.

Ron nodded. "It was. When we found them, Hermione was just beside herself. I could see that she kind of froze, you know? I told them that we were new neighbours and they invited us inside. They took it better than I expected."

"And now?"

Ron shook his head. "It's going to be a long road, mate. They're angry at her and you can't bloody fault them for it. She knows what she did was awful and yet, what choice did she have? They refused to let the Order bloody protect them and well, here we are. But despite their anger, they've forgiven her and that's a blessing. Her parents are kind and they love her. That's what's important, you know?"

"Yeah," Harry agreed. "And you?"

"Glad to be home," Ron admitted. "Australia was gorgeous, but did you know it was bloody winter there? Winter, in June! I was looking forward to enjoying the hot weather, but nope, bloody winter! It doesn't even make sense."

Harry chuckled. "They are on the opposite side of the equator, Ron."

"Doesn't matter," Ron grumbled. "It should all be the same season everywhere. And the spiders! Mate, they are fucking everywhere! There was one, I swear it was taunting me! It kept finding its way back into the beach house and it was the size of my bloody head!"

Harry laughed now, unable to hold it back as he watched his friend's wide eyes tell him about the spider. "Hermione had to deal with it, didn't she?"

"If you would have seen the size of this thing, you would have lost it, too!"

"Sure, mate."

Ron elbowed him in response, leaning back on the pirate ship to look up at the night sky. "Arse."

Harry grinned, lying down next to his friend. "Did you get your NEWTs?"

"Yeah," Ron said, rubbing his nose. "Got an E in Potions and Transfiguration, but since the rest were Outstandings, I reckon I'm good. I haven't heard otherwise. You?"

"E in Potions," Harry said. "I think so, too, but as Zee mentioned, we did kind of defeat Voldemort."

Ron snorted. "That was all you. I did kill a great ugly snake though. I should get points for that."

"Definite points," Harry agreed. "You nervous?"

"For the Academy? Nah. I figure it can't be worse than your Quidditch practices."

"Piss off."

Ron grinned. "I'm kind of looking forward to it, if I'm honest. We can solve mysteries together just like the olden days."

"What are we, eighty?"

"Sometimes it feels like it," Ron said, turning on his side to look at his friend. "How are you doing with everything?"

Harry sighed, turning on his side as well. "As good as can be, I guess. Ginny and I talked about it a lot and about everything when we were on holiday. It felt good to get it all out. But I can't say that I'm not still worried about Crouch, Brambilla, and Lestrange on the loose and the missing Resurrection Stone."

Ron frowned. "Yeah, that blows. If anyone deserves to pay for the shit they did, it's those three. And the stone is… I mean, it's not like they can bring Voldemort back with it, right?"

"I don't think so," Harry admitted. "I mean, when they used the stone in the story, it was only a reflection of the person they lost, like a shade, right? It wasn't really them and they weren't really back."

"Yeah, plus we destroyed all of his Horcruxes."

"Yeah," Harry whispered.

Ron's blue eyes stared into his. "Are you worried that we missed one?"

"No," Harry said, quickly. "No. I mean, the whole Resurrection Stone missing thing is messing with my mind, but I know that we got all of the Horcruxes. In the end, when I had him on the ground… Ron, he was fucking scared. He was afraid to die and he knew that was the end. If he had any soul bits left, he wouldn't have been afraid. Voldemort would never have shown me fear if it wasn't the end."

"Yeah, you're right," Ron agreed. "He was afraid of death and he didn't show his fear to others. It's what made him so bloody scary to half the world. You did the right thing. We all did."

"I know."

Ron took a drink of his beer. "So, what's the plan for the rest of the summer? Lounge around?"

"Mostly," he agreed. "I've been running on the beach every morning."

"Sadist," Ron said in disgust, making him grin.

"Yeah, but I'll be running laps around you in basic because I kept in shape."

Ron frowned. "Fine. I'll start joining you on runs, but I'm going to hate you for it."

"Understood," Harry said. "I got another tattoo."

Ron's eyebrow rose. "Please don't tell me you got my sister's face tattooed on your arse now?"

Harry chuckled. "Nah, that's where your name goes."

Ron snorted.

Harry pulled his tee shirt over his head to show Ron the new tattoo he'd just gotten yesterday. It was three written lines across his left ribs and Ron leaned in closer to read the small black script that said: Teddy, 11th April, 1998.

Ron's lips curved. "Just like Sirius'."

Harry nodded, picking up his beer. "He tattooed my name on him after I was born and I wanted to do the same for my godson. It's even in the same spot."

"What about Mina and Leo?" Ron asked.

"I considered it," he admitted. "Zee and I talked about it before I went and she said it makes more sense to do Teddy because he's my godson. She said Mina and Leo are my siblings and it's different, which it is, but I don't know. I mean, Teddy is kind of my sibling too, right? But not really because he's my godson and it's… complicated. It feels weird to do Teddy and not them."

"Nah," Ron said. "Makes total sense. I wouldn't put any of my brothers' names on my body, but one of their kids? If they were special, maybe. Godson is different than sibling. It doesn't mean you won't love the shit out of them the same amount as Teddy."

Harry let out a slow breath, feeling a bit relieved to hear his friend say that. "You're right."

Ron grinned. "I'm always right. It's basically my middle name. Ronald Always Right With the Nicest Arse Weasley."

Harry rolled his eyes. "Sure, that's totally what Bilius really stands for."

Ron's eyes moved over Harry's tattoos. "I think you might be getting addicted to those though."

Harry smiled. "Nah. I don't want to be all covered like Uncle Sirius was. Outside of this one on my right, the others are small."

"I still can't believe you let my sister carve her name into your skin."

"You want me to tattoo your name on my other wrist, Ron?"

Ron wiggled his eyebrows. "Absolutely. Then I want to see Ginny's face when she finds out she's not that special."

Harry laughed. "Her name on my body doesn't change how special she is."

"I know," Ron said, taking a drink of his own beer. "It just makes sense for you two. All kidding aside, please don't actually tattoo my name on your wrist. That's for you and the witch you love and I think she's a really lucky woman. You two complete each other and as much as I whine, I love seeing you two together and happy."

"Thanks, mate," Harry said, his heart warming at his friend's words. "Hey, how's your Mum doing?"

"All right," Ron admitted. "She's settling in. Ginny convinced her to go to Romania with her as you know, which I think was good for her. They should be back in a few days."

"So you have the house to yourself?"

"Yeah and it's totally weird. The Burrow's never empty. Bill and Fleur came over for dinner last night though which was cool. Gabrielle is here so she came along. She's nice. Fleur's excited she's here for the summer. Plus Percy and Audrey were over the day before for dinner, so really I haven't been alone much."

"Is Hermione staying with her parents?"

Ron nodded. "Yeah, she moved back in with them to help them settle back into the house and to get their affairs in order. They've decided to wait out the summer before returning to their practice, but they are organizing things. Plus it gives them time with Hermione, which they all need."

"Are you two still looking to move in together?"

"Yeah, I just don't know when. Between her parents, her new job, me starting at the Academy, finding a place seems almost impossible."

"I had an idea about that," Harry began.

Ron raised an eyebrow.

"I want to move into Clevedon Court in September. I figure, I'll spend the summer home with Zee and the twins, but come September I'll be busy with the Academy, Ginny will be at Hogwarts, and who knows what kind of crazy hours we'll be working. The house is mostly finished when it comes to the renovations and upgrades, but I want to renovate rooms for Mina, Leo, and Teddy so that they can come stay with me sometimes. Plus, the horses need to be taken care of and with just Basil now and well, Kreacher, apparently — don't even ask, it's a whole thing — but it'd be kind of awesome if my best mates moved in to help me out until Gin finishes school."

Ron's eyes widened in surprise. "Move in with you?"

"Yeah," Harry said. "You and Hermione can have your own room and it would be great."

"Mate, that would be amazing," Ron said. "I miss hanging out with you."

"Me too," Harry admitted. "And I miss hanging out with Hermione. I think the three of us living together would be perfect. Plus, it would mean you two are living together and would have plenty of time to find your own place. There would be no rush on it."

"Brilliant. I'm in," Ron told him. "And September will be great, too because Mum will still have Ginny and I for the summer. We've already kind of talked about it a bit, plans for all of us to pop in during the week, sporadically, and check up on her. And we're doing weekly Sunday dinners. She'll be sick of us."

"Doubt it," Harry said.

Ron grinned. "You're coming to the Sunday dinners, mate. At this point, you're basically a Weasley anyway."

"Deal," he agreed.

When Ron left, Harry was feeling lighter and more excited about what the future had to bring. As July came to a close, so did his eighteenth birthday. He didn't want to do anything too elaborate, but he did enjoy a dinner at home with Zee, Remus, Tonks, Mina, Leo, Teddy, Flo, Colt, Sorcha, Ginny, Ron, and Hermione. Flo baked him a chocolate cake and Zee put the Potter birthday cape on him, making him smile.

When everyone left, he took Ginny up to the treehouse to thank her for the gift that she'd given him — a huge wooden picture frame that was covered in photos of the two of them together. Ginny told him it would look perfect framing the big mirror in the master bedroom at Clevedon Court. He agreed and couldn't wait to put the mirror inside of the frame. They curled up in the hammock together and snogged.

"Mmm, I should head home," Ginny whispered, her head falling back as he kissed his way down her throat, sucking on the skin hard enough to leave a mark.

"No, you should stay," he insisted, slipping his hands under her shirt. "It's my birthday. You should definitely stay and kiss me more."

"I should, eh?"

When he only gave her a cheeky grin and then opened her bra to suckle her breasts, she moaned. Harry flipped them out of the hammock, carrying her over to the mess of blankets and pillows in the corner. Ginny took control, pinning him beneath her.

"Nuh-uh. It's your birthday."

"Exactly," Harry said, flipping her back beneath him. "Which means I get to take what I want."

Ginny let him suckle her breast before she pushed him off and straddled him. "Nope, pretty sure your girlfriend gets to decide."

He lifted his head to lick her nipple as she pinned his arms above his head. "Oh yeah? Who made that rule?"

"Me," she teased, slipping her hands under his shirt. "Now, be good and stay still."

Harry gave her an amused look, but did as she instructed. She pushed his tee shirt off, brushing her lips over his tattoo and then the new tattoo, a soft smile on her face. She'd told him how much she loved it the moment she saw it and he trembled when her lips brushed over the ink. When she undid his jeans and slowly began to tug them down, his eyes darkened. Her small hand reached over the prominent bulge in his boxer briefs and his eyes crossed.

"See something you like, Gin?"

Ginny bit her bottom lip before she bent her head to kiss him through the cotton. "Maybe."

He flipped her again, catching her by surprise as she crashed into the pillows beneath him. "My turn."

She kept her eyes on him as he slowly finished undressing her, tossing her clothes behind them and lowering his face between her legs to kiss her sweetly. Then he sat up and pulled her with him, locking her legs around his waist.

"I want you like this," he whispered. "I want you to ride me just like this, sitting here on my lap, your heels digging into my arse, your knees digging into my hips."

When he slipped into her, her head fell back and she bit her bottom lip.

"Just like this," he murmured, pushing up into her.

Ginny took her time, her hands linked around his neck as she did as he asked, her eyes between their bodies, watching as his fingers rubbed and teased her with every thrust and when she came, he followed seconds later, groaning her name.

Afterwards, they lay together, tangled in the blankets, fingertips dancing over each other's skin. When Ginny told him that she had to go home, he tried to protest, but reluctantly kissed her goodnight and walked her to the Floo.

"You sure you don't want to stay?"

Ginny linked her arms around his neck and kissed him. "I always want to stay, but I should go home. I want to stay with Mum while I can. Besides, I'll see you tomorrow. Theo invited us to Sebastian's surprise birthday party."

He nodded and kissed her once more. "Right. I forgot about that. Goodnight."

"Goodnight," Ginny said before she stepped into the flames.

Harry watched her go with a sigh. He really hated sleeping without her and he knew that he was going to have to get used to it over the upcoming year. It was something he really didn't want to think about. He made sure the house was locked up before he made his way upstairs, peeking in on the twins to make sure they were asleep, a smile on his face.

It had been a pretty great birthday, he thought.

~ ASC ~

Theo was excited to celebrate Sebastian's birthday with him. Yeona and Durant had decided they needed to do it in style since Sebastian hadn't let them celebrate his birthday properly the year before. Theo had been all for it and laughed when they told them that they were doing it in a pub.

"It will be great," Durant insisted. "He'll love it!"

Theo had gotten the task of getting him there and Sebastian had done everything possible to distract him along the way.

"Why do we have to go to a pub? I'm really okay celebrating alone with you. Naked."

Theo grinned and stood on his toes to kiss him. "Absolutely. But first we're going to have dinner with Yeona and Durant."

"But if we have dinner with them, you can't be naked," Sebastian whined.

Theo laughed and tugged Sebastian into the pub anyway. It was full of people and they all yelled, "Surprise!"

The flabbergasted look on Sebastian's face was definitely worth it.

The pub was full of Aurors, people he worked with, old friends and colleagues. Spencer and Sadira popped in for a drink and to say hi before heading out. Harry and Ginny were there and to Theo's surprise, Blaise and Draco. He ran over to hug them both.

"You came!"

Draco rolled his eyes. "You made it sound like life and death if we didn't."

"He exaggerates," Blaise said. "But I'm always up for a good party. How are things between you and your not-gay Auror?"

"Amazing," Theo admitted. "He's brilliant."

Draco smiled. "Good."

"What have you two been up to?"

"Been in France," Draco told him. "I'm just going over all of my properties and trying to figure things out, I guess."

"You should come stay with me for a bit," Theo said. "It would be fun."

Draco's lips curved. "I'll think about it."

"What have you been doing, Blaise?"

"Swimming and enjoying the hot Sicilian sun," Blaise said. "I'm ready to start law school in September and in the meantime, I'm visiting Mamma."

"Is she still in the crypt?"

Blaise nodded. "Yup. Auror Rossi, my not-step daddy, is keeping her there. Her trial was last week. She was found guilty."

"Shit, mate, I'm sorry," Draco said.

Blaise shrugged. "I knew she would be. Auror Rossi saved her arse if you ask me. Theo's boyfriend, too. They had a shit ton of evidence linking all of these crimes to my zia instead of her. She's done some things though, plus she was a Death Eater, but she ended up with two years. She was incredibly lucky."

Draco whistled. "I'll say. Two years?"

"Yeah. She has no real blood on her hands and everything she's being accused of is accessory to. I'll be surprised if she even does the full two years. She's a charmer, you know?"

"What about Auror Rossi?" Theo asked. "I mean, I know that they weren't really married, but they kinda were?"

Blaise shrugged again. "Honestly, I'm not sure. I'm pretty sure he loves her. But he's an Auror and well, I can't imagine being with her looks good on him. As far as I can tell, he's staying friendly with her and she tells me she's writing him. I guess when she gets out of the crypt, we'll see what happens."

"Wow," Theo said, not even sure what else to say.

Draco filled them in on the winery he was going through in France.

"It's been in my family for centuries and kind of fell into disrepair, you know? I mean, no one's been taking care of the vines properly, not utilizing them like they should be. The house elves have done what they could and the property manager's gotten old. I think I might stay out there and just… make wine."

Theo raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Really? Work on the vineyard?"

"Don't sound so surprised," Draco said. "I think that it would be a nice change."

"I agree," Theo said. "Draco, that sounds brilliant! And you know that I want to try your first batch of wine."

"No one else I would call," Draco replied.

Blaise put his arm around Theo's shoulders. "But what's going on with you? You send word that you discovered something life changing with no other context."

Theo bit his lip. "I found my mum's diary."

When he finished, Draco's mouth hung open. "So wait, your uncle Thelonius was really your dad and your father was really your uncle?"

"Yup."

"Damn, that's fucked up," Blaise said. "But it makes complete sense. I mean, come on, there's no way you were the real son of Thaddeus Nott. You're way too kind and sweet to have that man's blood. I just assumed you took after your mum more."

"Me too," Theo admitted. "It also confirms the truth, Thaddeus Nott killed both of them."

"Because he was jealous and pissed."

"Jealous makes no sense," Theo said. "He wasn't even faithful to my mum."

Draco shook his head. "It's not jealousy in that sense, Theo. He wanted what he couldn't have and thought no one else deserved it either."

When Blaise agreed, Theo realized they were right. Either way, he'd lost both of his parents because of the man. He spoke more with his friends on what he found and told them all about the success of the anniversary party and wedding renewal. Then he flittered around, meeting some of Bas' coworkers and chatting with Tonks and Remus when they stopped in to wish Sebastian happy birthday. He looked over at his boyfriend doing shots with Durant and he couldn't help but smile. This was the future he was looking forward to.

He excused himself to use the restroom and was just washing his hands when someone came in behind him. He was tall and lean, with light brown hair and freckles. He crossed his arms in front of his chest and looked Theo up and down slowly.

Theo raised an eyebrow at him in the mirror before he turned to dry his hands and the meet the gaze directly. "Can I help you?"

The man smirked and leaned against the counter, crossing his arms in front of his chest. "Depends. Are you the bloke who's with Seb now?"

Theo's eyebrow rose higher at the nickname. He'd never heard anyone call Sebastian 'Seb.' "How is that any of your business?"

The man took a step towards him and Theo took an automatic step back. The man's eyes glistened in amusement.

"No need to be scared of me, I just want to talk to Seb's new boyfriend."

"Who are you?" Theo demanded. He wasn't afraid of him, but the man gave off a vibe he didn't like and he couldn't explain why.

"I just wanted to say that Seb's a great guy," he said. "One of the best, really. Anyone would be lucky to date him."

Theo frowned, not sure how to respond to that statement. He knew that he was lucky. He knew exactly how incredible Sebastian was and he knew exactly how wonderful he was.

"I know."

The man's lips curved. "All you have to do is ask the boyfriends he has in other countries."

"What?" Theo exclaimed, startled by the change in conversation. Boyfriends in other countries? Who was this man?

"Oh, yeah," he said, his voice getting deeper as he took a step closer to Theo. "Sebby's real special like that, you know? He has this way about him. He makes you feel so special, like you're the centre of his whole world and then you find out you're not the only one. He's one hell of a liar."

Goosebumps pimpled over Theo's arms.

"Really?" Theo said dryly, his voice a bit higher than he would have liked. "I've always found Sebastian to be unflaggingly honest."

He smirked. "That's what great liars do, Nott. How else do you think he got into the MIA? It takes one hell of a liar to pass their tests. His entire job is based on lies."

The door to the bathroom opened and Sebastian tripped inside. He caught sight of Theo and his eyes lit up.

"Theo! There you are! Jin wants to…" he trailed off, his eyes landing on the man standing to the side of Theo. "What the fuck are you doing here, Clark?"

"Jin invited me."

"She hates your guts more than I do so I doubt that."

"I wanted to wish you happy birthday, Sebby. For old times' sake."

Theo's gaze moved to the man. Clark. Suddenly the man's sneer and entire demeanour made perfect sense to him. He stepped around him and took Sebastian's hand in his, pleased when Bas squeezed it in his own.

"Clark was just in here telling me how lucky I am to have you in my life, Bas," Theo said, reaching up to stroke his thumb down Sebastian's cheek so that his blue eyes met his. "He didn't give me his name. He was too busy telling me that you were too good for him and it caused you to sleep around a lot."

Sebastian's eyes narrowed. "What the fuck? Are you seriously going to bloody stand there and accuse me of sleeping around, Clark?"

Clark pursed his lips. "Your new boyfriend should know what you're capable of."

Theo wrapped his arm around Sebastian's waist and leaned into his side. He felt an overwhelming desire to protect him from this man. "Well, it's a good thing Bas found me, Clark. I'm here to tame his wild ways, right, Sebastian?"

Sebastian swallowed and Theo stood on his toes to kiss him. Bas' lips were unflinching beneath his so Theo wrapped his fingers around his neck, softly stroking and Sebastian surrendered to him, kissing him softly until Clark cleared his throat loudly behind them.

"Oh, Seb likes to pretend he's tough, but he's not," Clark exclaimed. "He's an Auror, but he's clingy and insecure. I bet the first thing he thought when he saw you in here with me was that we were shagging behind his back. Has trust issues, that one. It's quite pathetic actually."

"Clark —"

"—No," Theo interrupted loudly, surprising Sebastian. "What's pathetic is that you showed up at your ex boyfriend's birthday just to attempt to plant seeds of doubt in his new relationship. Did you realize what you lost by cheating on him, Clark? Do you look back and know that you lost the best bloody thing to ever happen to you? Sebastian is the most amazing man I have ever had the privilege of meeting. He's kind and thoughtful and grumpy and sexy as fuck and you, Sir, are a dickwad. Please never speak to either of us again. Good day."

Theo turned Sebastian around just as Clark spoke again.

"Think you're all that, do you? Got yourself a rich new boy toy to play with, Seb, and now you're too good for the rest of us?"

Theo spun around, his eyes dark in anger. "I do think I'm all that, actually. I am the Marquess of Norfolk and unless you want to lose the job you like so much, I suggest you back off. I have power you can't imagine and it takes very little for people to do what I say especially when I tell them about dickwads who are harassing me. Do not speak to me again. Do not speak to Sebastian again. If I have to tell you this again, you'll regret it. Do you understand me?"

Clark swallowed, his eyes wide in surprise. "Yes."

"Yes, what?" Theo demanded.

"Yes, Lord Norfolk," Clark whispered.

"Good. And his name is Sebastian, not Sebby. Now get out."

Clark gave them both one scathing look before he hurried out of the bathroom and then out of the pub entirely. Theo led Sebastian out of the bathroom and Sebastian stopped him outside the door to take his hand in his as he stared at Theo, his eyes wide in amazement.

"What?" Theo exclaimed. "Seb's a stupid nickname, I know you agree or you wouldn't go by Bas."

"I fucking love you, Theodore Nott."

Theo wrapped his arms around Sebastian's neck. "I have zero patience for tossers who are trying to stir up drama needlessly. He knows what he lost and he wants you back and I have no intention of letting him have you. I don't share."

Sebastian smiled, leaning down to brush his lips over Theo's. "I don't want him back. Maybe I was clingy and insecure, but he made me feel that way, Theo. You don't. You make me feel like… like the man I want to be and I want to protect you and be protected by you. I just want you."

"You have me," Theo said. "And for the record, any of those boyfriends in other countries you might have, I can totally take them, right?"

He laughed, his hands moving down to pinch Theo's arse. "Without a doubt. If I find any, I'll send them your way."

Theo grinned. "Good. And Bas?"

"Hmm?"

"I love you, too. Happy Birthday."

Their kiss was interrupted by Jin poking them both in the ribs.

"Oi! Was that who I think it was? What the fuck was tiny dick doing here?"

"Tiny dick?" Theo asked, choking in laughter.

"Yeah, Clark," she stated, making Theo snort. "Anyone who is that much of an arse is clearly compensating for something. Now, why was he here?"

"He said you invited him," Sebastian told her.

Jin's eyes narrowed. "Over my dead body! Where did he go? I want to have words."

Sebastian pulled Theo against his side. "I think Theo scared him off."

Jin's eyebrow rose. "Theo scared him off?" She pushed on Theo's shoulder. "But he's so sweet."

"I didn't like the way he called him Sebby," Theo told her.

Jin rolled her eyes. "No one did. How many fucking times did you ask Clark not to call you that?"

Sebastian shrugged. "I don't know. He was an arse."

Jin grabbed Theo's arm and pulled him towards her. "He was always an arse. Bas just didn't know it yet because he had yet to have me in his life. Now, Theo, tell me everything. What did that arse say to you?"

"He said that he wanted to tell me how lucky I was to be with someone like Sebastian and that he has a way of making you feel special. He paused like he was waiting for me to say something before he continued with because he has boyfriends in every country he travels to."

"Excuse me? Did he actually have the audacity to say that Bas cheated on him?" Jin shrieked. "What an arsehat! I can't wait to tell D. He'll hold him for me while I punch him in the throat."

Sebastian snorted. "Control your rage, little one. Theo already made him piss himself."

"I did not," Theo said, blushing. "That's an exaggeration."

"So not," Sebastian said. "Yeona, he pulled out the whole marquess thing and made Clark call him Lord Norfolk. Clark ran out of here with his tail between his legs. I don't think I've ever been so turned on in my life."

"Keep it in your knickers," Jin demanded, grinning at Theo. "I need more details."

Theo chuckled. "He exaggerates. I just told him that I didn't believe him and it was weird that he showed up at his ex boyfriend's birthday to begin with. Didn't you two date like well over a year ago."

"Closer to two," Sebastian admitted.

"Clark always was a troublemaker. He never really liked Bas. He's selfish and lives for drama. I bet he probably heard through someone at work that people were meeting here for his birthday and thought that it was a good opportunity to cause some trouble. Men like that always want what they can't have. Seeing Sebastian happy probably was enough to make him want to stir the pot," Jin insisted. "I'm still disappointed that I didn't get to punch him in the throat or at least knee him in the bollocks."

"Has anyone ever told you that you're kind of violent?" Theo asked.

Jin laughed. "Little old me? Darling, no one messes with my friends." She kissed his cheek. "Come on. D and I are buying the next round of shots, he's going to want to hear all about this!"

Theo looked back at Sebastian, but his boyfriend only grinned at him. Theo had a feeling the night was going to be very interesting.

When they returned to Norfolk Manor that evening, Sebastian was delightfully buzzed and peppering Theo's neck in kisses as they walked up the stairs to the master suite. They'd done two rounds of shots with Jin and Durant before finding the dance floor. A live band was playing in the corner and Theo had happily pushed his arse back into Sebastian, moving his hips in just the right way as they danced close together. By the time they finally said goodnight, both of them were rock hard and desperate for each other.

"It was so hot when you stood up to him for me," Sebastian said, his lips moving over Theo's throat. "Like no one's ever done that for me before. You're the best thing to ever happen to me, Theo. I adore you."

"I adore you, too," Theo told him, tugging him into his bedroom. "Now, clothes off."

"So, bossy," Sebastian teased, pulling his shirt over his head.

Theo leaned in to drag his tongue over Sebastian's nipple, making him tremble. "I have a very important birthday blowjob to impart upon my man."

His hands went to Sebastian's belt, but Sebastian covered his hands with his own. "Wait." When Theo's eyes met his, he licked his bottom lip. "I want you to fuck me."

Theo's eyes widened in surprise. "What?"

"I want you to fuck me," Sebastian repeated.

"Bas, is this because of what happened earlier? You don't owe me anything. I love you and I know Clark did a number on you and I—"

Sebastian's finger over his lips silenced him. "No, it's not because of that. I've been thinking about it since you brought it up. A lot. No, a lot a lot and fuck, I want it. I want you inside of me, Theo. I want you to take me. Seeing you tonight, watching you tell Clark where to fucking go, it was such a bloody turn on and… let me give you this."

"I don't want you to give me this," Theo told him, brushing his thumb over Sebastian's lips and sighing when he kissed it. "I only want it if you want it. I'm very happy, Bas. Everything we do… you make me so unbelievably happy."

Sebastian pulled Theo's shirt over his head, sliding his hands over his shoulders and down his arms. "I want it. I want you. I want all of you. Every way possible."

The look in his eyes told Theo everything he needed.

They moved to the bed, taking their time and undressing each other slowly in between long kisses. When Sebastian rolled onto his stomach, Theo took a moment to just admire his firm muscled back, letting his eyes roam lower. He bent his head to kiss his arse, squeezing and kneading.

"If you change your mind—"

"—I won't."

Theo's eyes met his over Sebastian's shoulder and he nodded. He urged him to lie on his back and Theo began to plant kisses down his chest, taking his time to suck and tug on his nipples, making him squirm. He kissed lower, tracing his tongue over every muscle and feeling Sebastian tremble under him with every touch. When he finally reached his hard cock, he dragged his tongue over it, savouring him. Then he sucked him into his mouth.

The sound Sebastian made had Theo's cock begging to be touched. He ignored it and took his time, licking and sucking Bas until he covered his fingers in lube and slowly slid it under his balls to touch him. He felt him tense, so he soothed him, using his tongue and mouth more to keep him focused as he teased and stroked him. When he pushed in with his finger, Bas tensed back up for only a moment before he let him in.

Theo took his time, worshipping Sebastian's cock with his mouth while his fingers prodded and stroked him. By the time he reached his prostate, Sebastian was panting above him.

"I'm ready. Fuck, I'm ready!"

Theo continued to use his fingers, his eyes dark in desire before he finally covered himself in lube and lined himself up. He brushed the head of his cock over him and Sebastian trembled.

"Are you sure, Bas?"

"Completely," he croaked, desperately. "Please, I need you."

Theo pushed into him slowly and covered his mouth with his at the same time. He moved carefully as Bas opened for him and when he was fully seated inside, he squeezed his eyes shut at the feeling of tightness.

"Oh, fuck," Theo groaned. "Oh fuck, Bas, you feel so bloody good."

"Take me, baby," Sebastian whispered. "Take me."

It was all of the motivation Theo needed. He did; rocking his hips back and forth, meeting Bas with every thrust and to his surprise, it was Bas who took over. He held onto Theo's hips, working him over him with such precision that he knew he wasn't going to last long.

"Bas… Bas… fuck, you have to come, I can't… you have… fuck, you're so tight!"

Sebastian pressed his lips to Theo's throat as Theo's hand gripped his cock, pumping him with every thrust. But it was Theo who came, rocking his hips into Sebastian's as he stiffened and cried out.

He collapsed onto Sebastian a moment, his hand still pumping his boyfriend's length before he sat up, shimmied down, and took him into his mouth. Sebastian's eyes rolled, but it didn't take much for him to finish with a loud moan, his fingers tangled in Theo's hair.

Theo kissed his way up Sebastian's chest, kissing his lips. "Wow."

"Wow, indeed," Sebastian said, kissing him again. "You're so fucking sexy, Theo."

Theo smiled and snuggled into Sebastian's arms. "I'm too tired to move right now. Of course you'd top from the bottom."

Sebastian chuckled.

"Are you okay, Bas?"

"I'm brilliant," Sebastian admitted. "That was… amazing."

"Yeah?"

Sebastian brushed his fingers through Theo's hair. "You were perfect. I… the first time I didn't like it. The man wasn't gentle enough with me, but I should have known you wouldn't be like that. We might have to do that again."

Theo grinned and kissed Sebastian's chest. "Oh, we're definitely doing that again as long as you promise that you'll still end up inside of me ninety-nine percent of the time." His lips trailed down Sebastian's chest as he spoke. "I'm a very greedy bottom, Sebastian."

Sebastian laughed, reaching for his wand on the night table to clean them up. "Don't worry, baby. I love your arse too much to disagree with that statement."

Theo snuggled closer, his eyes drooping. "Good. Now one more birthday kiss before bed."

Sebastian smiled as he kissed Theo tenderly. "I'm so glad I met you, Theodore Nott."

"Me too, Auror Arsehole," Theo said, his eyes already closing. "Me too."

~ ASC ~

Ginny's seventeenth birthday coincided with her first day of training camp and to say that she was nervous was an understatement. She'd celebrated with her family on the weekend and Harry had taken her to Somerset afterwards where they'd spent Saturday night and all of Sunday in bed together.

Waking up to his mouth between her legs was definitely the best present a girl could ask for. But he'd also given her a brand new wardrobe just for Quidditch. She'd been at a loss for words when she opened the boxes to find new sweats, new tights, new sports bras, new hoodies, and new Quidditch gloves waiting for her.

"I want you to be dressed comfortably for training," he began. "I asked Theo for help with your size and — oof!"

He laughed when she tackled him, kissing him deeply. "You're amazing!"

Theo had wiggled his eyebrows at them. "I told you she'd love it, lover."

Then Theo had presented her with his gift which included some new lingerie that made her blush and a framed photo. Harry had seen the photo before she had as she unwrapped the package and he swore, jumping to his feet.

"I'll just take that."

Ginny snatched her hands away from him. "Hey! This is my gift."

"No, it's not a gift," Harry said, quickly. "Theo didn't mean to give you that."

"Oh, yes, I did," Theo said, laughing.

Harry groaned as Ginny turned the frame around in her hands. He heard her snort and when he looked into her brown eyes, the amusement and laughter there had his face heating.

"Look, we were drunk!"

"Oh, they so were," Theo agreed.

Ginny stared down at the photo of her boyfriend completely naked on the floor of the Gryffindor common room. A red sheet barely covered the essentials and Ron was asleep on his stomach next to Harry, also naked, with Harry's face pressed against Ron's arse. She couldn't help it, she laughed. She laughed so hard that tears rolled down her cheeks and when she passed the photo around to show her brothers, everyone else soon joined in.

"Hey! My arse looks great in that photo!" Ron protested.

Bill gave Harry an amused stare. "And here we were worried about you getting fresh with our sister and it was Ron the whole time."

"Do you two usually sleep naked together?" Fred teased.

"Can we talk about the real star of this photo?" George demanded, holding it up over his head. "The third person under the red sheet needs its own announcement."

Harry blushed to the roots of his hair as Fred hollered.

"No way that's his cock! Give that to me!"

Ginny snatched the photo back from her brother. "That's for me to know and for you boys to wonder about."

Fred wiggled his eyebrows at Harry. "How drunk do you need to be to drop your trousers? Someone get the whisky!"

Theo giggled and Harry elbowed him.

"I hate you."

Theo leaned over and kissed Harry's cheek. "Don't worry. I have one for Hermione, too."

Harry scowled as Ron began to go on about how he and Harry weren't snuggling and how it was perfectly normal for two best friends to fall asleep together.

Needless to say, Harry and Ron were teased for the rest of the evening.

Once Harry and Ginny were finally alone in Somerset later on that night, Ginny traced his tattoos with her nails while they lay in bed together.

"I can't believe I won't see you for three whole weeks."

Harry took her hand in his, kissing her fingers. "You'll have the mirror."

"Yes, but it won't be like at Hogwarts. I don't think I'll have as much privacy."

"You can still call me and say hi."

She smiled, snuggling into his arms. "And I most certainly will. You and Ron will be starting your training soon."

"Yeah, next week. Then you'll be home for two days and then back to Hogwarts."

Ginny propped herself up on her arms to look down at him. "I'm going to miss you so much."

"Me too," he murmured, pulling her mouth down to his. "So, so much."

He pinned her beneath him, his hand between her legs and then he was moving inside of her, his lips never leaving hers. All Ginny could do was hold on as she lost herself in him and in his touch.

When he kissed her goodbye the next morning, part of her wondered how long it would be before they had another moment together. She placed a hand over her heart and thought as excited as she was, she missed him already.

But by the time she arrived at the training camp, all thoughts of Harry were gone from her mind. All she could focus on was the bundle of nerves in the pit of her stomach. She was really here!

The camp was hidden somewhere in the Welsh countryside. There was a large pitch over the ridge, surrounded by a large three story stone cottage. To her surprise, the woman waiting at the front for them was Amy Hunt, the retired Harpy coach who had been at the tryouts.

"Weasley, room six."

Ginny nodded and made her way into the huge cottage. She found herself in a huge dining room upon entering. There was a large common room to her left and she made her way up the stairs. Room six was on the first floor and when she found her name on the door, she pushed it open and smiled at the brunette who was already inside.

"Ginevra Weasley?"

"Ginny."

"Hi, Ginny, I'm Cadence Whitney. Everyone calls me Cady."

"Hi, Cady," Ginny said, dropping her bag and broom down onto the empty bed. "What position do you play?"

"Chaser," Cady said with a smile. "I heard you play the same. I look forward to competing with you out on the pitch."

"Me too," Ginny said, her nerves returning in full force.

A new roommate, a training camp, and new opportunities… Ginny had a feeling the next three weeks were going to be very illuminating.