Shortly after Ginny's harrowing conversation with Harry, she avoided him as much as possible. She was too embarrassed to say anything to him, and he respected her space now that he understood. It wasn't that he hadn't respected her before, but now he respected her even more so. She assumed this was because he was hurt by what she had told him, but at least what she had told him was the truth.

Ginny was looking forward to the Christmas holidays because she could have time and space to think everything through. She needed it desperately as she didn't get time to herself at Hogwarts. The one thing she was craving most was down time. After her conversation with Harry, Ginny could only think of one person to confide in, and that was Hermione.

Ginny found her the Sunday morning after their conversation in the library-surprise! She approached her hesitantly and asked nervously, "Hermione…can I chat to you for a bit please?" Hermione looked up a second later from her book and smiled, "Sure Ginny. Let's go to the back." They meandered through shelf after shelf of books until they found a fairly private spot in a dimly lit corner. There, Ginny spilt the beans of the conversation she'd had with Harry. She didn't tell Hermione how she had almost given her life willingly to Riddle, because she didn't want to seem weaker than she already did. But Hermione listened in awe as she heard about Harry's revelation and she seemed as surprised as anyone. A grin cracked over her face as she pushed Ginny's arm playfully and laughed lightly, "Well I'm sure you're happy about this development, Gin! I can't believe he never told me!"

Ginny shook her head and grimaced, "I'm not happy, because I don't…can't feel that way about him, Hermione. That diary has done too much damage involving my relationship with him. I had to tell him no." Hermione grimaced and frowned, "Then why did you tell him everything in the first place?" Ginny sighed and shook her head, "This is the part I don't quite get myself. I feel like, if I ever can have any kind of a relationship with Harry, be it friendship or a relationship, I need to get over my own trust issues first. Riddle instilled those within me and I had no control over it. I still don't have control over how I feel because that feeling remains even though it's gone." Hermione was still frowning as she asked, "Then how-come you could tell me and Harry all of this?" Ginny frowned now too because she didn't have an answer and whispered, "I don't know. It's easier telling you now that I've told Harry first. I think I told him because he has a right to know why I avoid him sometimes. Or why I may seem off. He needed to know that I can't…help it I suppose."

Hermione sighed and shook her head hopelessly, "I'm sorry Gin. That sounds really terrible. But do you know what I think you should do?" Ginny shook her head as Hermione grinned, "Date other people." Ginny's eyes widened and she shook her head in dismay, "No! I mean, it was hard enough opening up to Harry, let alone some stranger I don't know." Hermione was shaking her head before she was even done and she replied slyly, "That's not what I mean. You don't have to open up to anyone. You can learn to trust other people besides Harry. That way, if it ends, it won't be the end of the world." Ginny thought about the idea. Hermione was a smart girl, and if Hermione suggested it, it was probably a good idea that she follow up on the suggestion.
Ginny nodded thoughtfully, "Alright, I'll give it a go, but I can't guarantee anything." Hermione nodded and grinned happily, "That's all anyone could ask for!"

It was the last day before the December holidays and Ginny couldn't be more pleased! She walked into the Great Hall merely for breakfast because she knew that she would soon be home in the warmth of the Burrow. As much as she loved Hogwarts, she still missed her parents and her mother's famous cooking. She also missed the comfort of her own room.

When she sat down at the Gryffindor table for her final meal, she put a bit of everything on her plate. Toast, scrambled eggs, bacon and chipolata sausages. The hall was still quiet and she ate alone quite happily. A few Hufflepuff's were scattered across the opposite table and several Slytherin's were on the far end. She hadn't felt so at peace for such a long time, as she quietly contemplated life while eating her sausages.

Wood walked in and came and sat down opposite her, getting some of the sausages too. He grinned at her and said happily, "Yum! My favorite!" Ginny nodded and grinned at him, "Agreed! I'm sure Professor Dumbledore asked the house elves to make them especially since it's the last day." Wood chuckled in agreement, "You think he puts in special orders?" Ginny shrugged her shoulders as she swallowed the last of her sausage, "Could be. You never know." Wood winked at her and replied, "I'm sorry that you didn't really get a chance to play in the match and show everyone your skill." Ginny smiled slightly and laughed, "Don't worry. It was nobody's fault and the experience in itself was once in a lifetime." Wood swallowed a bit and grinned, "Well about that, the team and I were thinking that we actually need another reserve." Ginny laughed as she put down her knife and fork, "No way! Please don't make allowances just for me!" Wood grinned wider and chuckled, "Well actually, it was Harry who suggested it. I think he's doing everything he can to win you over."

Ginny shook her head in disbelief as Wood changed the conversation, "So are you looking forward to vacation?" Ginny nodded excitedly, "Oh yes! I can't wait for a change of scenery and my mom's cooking! And you?" Oliver laughed. Ginny had never seen him so carefree but he replied, "Yeah I think I need to come around for a Weasley family meal sometime! According to your brothers and Harry, your mom's cooking is legendary! I'm excited to see my family. I think it's easier to feel safer when you're with them, especially when Sirius Black is on the loose."
Ginny nodded in agreement and said, "Well enjoy it Wood. I can't wait to watch the next game!" He grinned and said, "Keep practicing with your brother's in the holidays Gin! I've given your brother's strict instruction to make sure you do!" Ginny laughed and thanked him, before waving goodbye and heading towards the doors. Freedom at last!