Chapter 8: Opening Up
Harry awoke to find himself alone. Where had Ginny gone? He jumped out of bed and ran downstairs to see if she was there. Hermione and Mrs. Weasley were in the kitchen preparing breakfast.
"Good morning Harry dear," Mrs. Weasley greeted him as she bustled about the kitchen.
"Good morning Mrs. Weasley, Hermione. Have either of you seen Ginny?"
"She's outside sitting on the bench," Hermione answered. She peered after him as he walked outside.
"Ginny?" he said uncertainly when he reached her. She turned around and patted the seat next to her indicating she wanted Harry to sit down.
"Ginny I w-"
"Please Harry," she interrupted, "I need to tell you this."
Harry nodded and she proceeded.
"My nightmares were about you being killed. I was terrified that would become a reality, but last night was the worst."
She took his hand and looked him in the eyes, "I dreamt that you left me. You told me you were walking away and never looking back. Harry that was the worst pain I could have imagined. Seeing you walking away from me broke my heart, worse then any other thought or nightmare did. That's when I realized that's what would happen if I didn't let you in."
Harry tucked a stand of hair behind her ear and she continued.
"I love you Harry. I always have and always will. And I believe what you said last night. I will do the same for you. I will protect you and fight for you always. It will take time for me to heal, but I will."
Harry speechless leaned in and kissed Ginny passionalty. He wrapped his arms around her and broke the kiss only to say "I love you to Ginny Weasley."