His Black Rose

by StrangeLittleWeirdo

SEQUEL: The battle is over and Jenna has everything she wanted. A family, friends, and she's in love with her best friend, Harry Potter. Life is back to normal. But, honestly, how normal can life really be for someone like her? please rnr

8. Experience, Elegance and Exposed

AN: OK, so here we go into the M rated stuff so if you don't want to read it, just skip through those bits. that's your warning. i've tried to keep it as tasteful as i can. so here we are, the new chapter containing quite a bit of sexual activity

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Chapter 8

Experience, Elegance and Exposed

It took me a long time to fall asleep that night. I spent ages staring up at the top of the hangings around my bed. Mine and Harry's kiss down in the common room was still in my mind. Once I'd come out from underneath the sofa, I made an excuse and escaped up to my dormitory. I stood with my back to the door for a few minutes thinking, What on earth happened? before getting into bed. My mind wouldn't stop though. It kept replaying the kiss to me over and over again. The strange feelings that went through me as Harry kissed me, how his hands ran all over my body before starting to undo my shirt, and that groan. That deep groan that had come from Harry's throat. What was that? Then there was that … other thing.

I wasn't sure what it was. I'd just felt something press into my thigh and it freaked me out slightly. It wasn't hard as such but kind of … firm, I guess is the best way to describe it, whatever it was. Not very big but definitely noticeable. Obviously because I felt it. Harry hadn't seemed to notice though. Maybe I was overreacting. Harry probably had his glasses case in his pocket or something. Then again, I didn't even know if Harry owned a glasses case as he rarely ever took his glasses off. So if it wasn't something in his pocket … what was it?

I woke up before my alarm the next morning. I opened my eyes to the darkness as the sun hadn't quite risen yet. I lay there for a few minutes staring into the darkness like I had last night. Not only had it taken me a while to fall asleep but my dreams had been a bit strange too. I kept dreaming about Harry and I don't mean in an innocent way. In fact the word innocent doesn't even come into it. In the dreams Harry was more like he was the previous night. I cringed slightly as I remembered. I glanced at my bracelet to see another section of it had turned silver, just over half completed now. But was I really ready for that? I mean, I had some experience from when I was with Noah but not much. I was drawn away from these thoughts though when my alarm went off. Part of me didn't want to get up yet because my bed was so warm but I needed to have a shower.

I pushed my sheets off me and sat up. I shivered slightly as I walked to the bathroom with my towels in hand. As warm as it was in the Tower, the Heads Tower didn't compare to the warmth of Gryffindor Tower. The tile floor was certainly cold to touch. I padded quietly across the floor, dumping my towels on the toilet, then turned on the shower to let it run hot to wake me up. Nothing was worse than a cold shower on a cold day. While the water heated up, I took off my pyjamas. I pushed the trousers off my legs and stepped out of them, next lifting my top over my head and untying my hair from its band. My eye caught my reflection in the mirror. My naked reflection stared back at me, giving me a view of my back as I looked over my shoulder.

I wish I could say I wasn't insecure about my body. That wasn't the case though. I glanced down at myself, my arms folded around me. On my stomach were three faint silver lines from when Buckbeak scratched me in the third year; then crossing my chest as well were two more, another five matching ones on my back. These were barely a year old from when I was kidnapped by Bellatrix the previous year and used the Flagrum Curse on me. The burn marks had been healed but they had left me scared. This is what made me insecure about my body. Though they weren't very visible I still knew they were there and I didn't want anyone to see them.

I stuck my hand under the flow of water to check the temperature. It was perfect, not too hot and not too cold so I got in. the flow of water felt refreshing on my skin against the cold air; I brushed back my hair to let the water fall on to my face. I proceeded to wash it and my body. There was no better way to start the day with a nice hot shower.

-o-

Harry ran his lips over her jaw line and down her neck. The giggle that escaped her throat was irresistible. Her hand weaved itself into his hair while the other traced the contours of his chest. It sent shivers down Harry's spine not to mention what it did to his lower body. Harry pushed himself on to his elbows, readying himself. His eyes met hers, a silent question between them.

Harry shot up in bed, a cold sweat running down his back. He swallowed hard to try and regain control of his breathing. He remained like that for a few moments before he groaned and fell back on his bed. Not again, he thought, feeling the small response to his dream down below. It was getting beyond the point of where Harry could keep ignoring it. He was more than aware of how Jenna was affecting him now but still Harry didn't have the nerve to do anything about it. Knowing he wouldn't get anymore sleep, Harry decided a cold shower was in order to calm himself down. He swung his legs off the bed and, grabbing his glasses from the bedside table, got up and walked over to the bathroom.

It was obvious that Harry was still half asleep as he didn't register the sound of running water when he opened the bathroom door. Who was using the shower? Rubbing the sleep from his eyes Harry blinked and looked around. His eyes widened though when Harry saw who was already in the bathroom.

Harry's eyes widened instantly for stepping out from the shower was Jenna, completely oblivious to Harry's presence. She stood with her back to him, stepping back slightly so she was giving Harry a trim view of her front. Jenna ran her hands over her face and pushed back her wet hair, then running them along her arms in front of her removing any excess water, revealing the subtle curve of her breast to him. A drip of water fell on to her shoulder and started down her back. Harry's eyes couldn't help but follow its trail. It trickled slowly down Jenna's back, slipping over her smooth skin with ease. Its path continued to her lower back until it reached her the curve of her hip where its course ended. Her thighs shivered ever so slightly from the change in temperature between the shower.

The room all of a sudden felt very hot to Harry though it had nothing to do with the steam from Jenna's shower. He swallowed hard, his throat dry. He was suddenly very aware of his pulse, his heart thumping loudly in his chest as he stood there gazing at Jenna's naked form before him, a pressure building in his lower body. There was no question about it in Harry's mind; Jenna was … breathtaking, a goddess in human form standing before him. Her pale skin, the curves of her body in all the right places, her long slender legs, her perfect breasts. His need for her was greater than it had ever been before. He wanted to kiss her as much as he desired, press his body against hers, take her right there and then … The pressure increased in a second as the blood rushed south making Harry look down to see the peak that had now formed behind his boxers.

'Holy −'

Harry just managed to stop himself shouting out and bolted for the door. He slammed it shut and put his back to it, hoping beyond all hope that Jenna had not seen him. OK, note to self, they share a bathroom. Harry closed his eyes, leaning his head back against the door as he attempted to regain control of his breathing. The image of Jenna's body though was still burnt into his eyelids. Her naked form standing right there in front of him. Harry felt himself harden even more making his toes curl from the pressure and he fought back the groan that was burning in his throat. It was unbearable. It had to be released.

Just do it, purred the creature in his chest. There's nothing wrong in doing so. It's perfectly natural …

Harry swallowed and nodded, finally listening to his desires he denied for so long. Slowly Harry raised his hand and placed it on his waist, feeling for the top of his boxers. Finding it he carefully pushed them down enough so his erection was no longer restricted. It reacted to the slightest touch causing Harry's breath to catch. Gently he began to run his hand up and down its length all the while his mind began to wander.

A pair of lips gently touched his in a light kiss. Harry opened his eyes to see a familiar pair of blue ones gazing back at his. Jenna smiled up at him completely at ease that she was still naked in front of him. Harry made to say something but Jenna placed a finger over his lips. She then leaned up and began to kiss him, her warm body pressing into his. Harry was in heaven. He raised his hand and ran it through Jenna's hair, feeling her own run over his manhood. Her pace was slow and even. Harry's breathing deepened in an instant but he did not break the kiss. He groaned harshly in enjoyment. Harry felt Jenna smile through their kisses and her pace quickened. Faster and faster she stroked him, pushing him right to his limit until Harry couldn't take it much longer.

'Jen …' he groaned against her mouth. 'I'm gonna … Jenna, I'm …' Harry felt his hips buck as he reached the tip of his pleasure.

'Oh God, Jenna!'

Harry sagged against the door, panting heavily, relieved the pressure had been released.

'Harry?'

-o-

I spun round to see the door slam shut, my arms covering myself up as a precaution. But it was only the cupboard door. Hang on. Why was the cupboard door even open? Unless … that wasn't actually a cupboard. Quickly I dried myself off and pulled my pyjamas back on, my hair hanging damp around my face. Cautiously I approached the door. I placed my ear to it, listening for anything on the other side. I couldn't hear much at first, only some muffled noise. It sounded like someone was panting, out of breath almost, and every so often it sounded like they were moaning. The sounds slowly got shorter and more rapid. My eyes narrowed as I listened wondering what could possibly be making that noise. All of a sudden a loud shout came from the other side of the door.

'Oh God, Jenna!'

I jumped back from the door.

'Harry?'

I walked forwards and pushed open the door. Harry's dormitory was on the other side. I didn't know that Harry's and mine bedrooms were connected via the bathroom. I looked around his room. Harry wasn't in there. But I'd just heard him. I walked forwards, stopping before I stepped on his boxers. They lay crumpled on the floor. There was a small damp patch on them. I raised my eyebrow before continuing. I could have sworn I heard Harry through the door but he −

I felt something brush my arm as I walked past. I looked round. There was nothing there. Confused, I reached out. Something touched my fingers, a soft material flowing over them almost like water. Harry's Invisibility Cloak. But why was he hiding under that? I glanced round his room again as I thought this. Slowly things began to piece together in my mind. I looked back at where Harry was supposedly standing. I put my hand against him, finding he was facing away from me, and moved closer so my body touched his. Gently I began to kiss his shoulder blade, just to see if I'd get any reaction, running my lips lightly over it. There was a slight movement but nothing yet to confirm any of my thoughts. I continued my attentions on Harry's back. It was strange kissing him with the Cloak separating us. As I did this, ever so slowly, I moved my hand down his back to his waist and over his hip. That's when Harry tensed. I stopped the kisses and stepped back. I took one last glance at Harry then walked away back through the bathroom to my dormitory. When I was back in my room I let out a slow breath. Whoa.

-o-

Harry got to breakfast that morning before Jenna did for which he was heartedly thankful for. What had just happened up in his dormitory was more than embarrassing if Jenna had figured out what he'd been doing in there and he did not want to run into her on his own just quite yet. He walked into the Great Hall and looked around, his eyes scanning the room. Being Saturday morning not many students were there yet, however, the one student Harry was desperate to talk to was. Hermione, once again without fail, was there eating breakfast and deeply involved in her copy of the Daily Prophet. She was always up early for it on a Saturday. Quickly Harry walked over to her.

'Hermione, I need your help,' Harry blurted out, not even giving her time to say "good morning". Hermione looked up from her paper.

'OK, what d'you need help with?' she asked.

'You remember I mentioned to you a while ago that I'd −' Harry flushed as he bought it up again and looked down, '− I'd got a little excited with Jenna when we were kissing once?' Hermione nodded. 'Well, um, it's kind of happening quite often now.'

'OK,' said Hermione slowly, wondering where this was going. 'And so what d'you want me to do?'

'How long was Jenna with that guy she was with in sixth year?' Harry asked. He was aware he was changing the subject but it did have relevance for what he wanted Hermione to do.

'Um, she was with Noah for a good six seven months, I think,' said Hermione. 'But what's this −'

'I'm getting to that,' said Harry impatiently. 'Do you know how, um …experienced Jenna is?' Hermione looked at Harry strangely. 'Sexually? I mean, you must have talked to her about it before.'

'Yeah but, Harry, this isn't something you should be talking to me about,' said Hermione. 'You should be talking to Jenna about it if you want to go further with her.'

'I know I should but it's complicated,' said Harry. 'I want to go further with her but I don't want to pressure her or anything so I thought if you could tell me or find out how experienced she is then I'd know how far to go without freaking her out. I mean, she doesn't exactly know I get excited like that yet.'

'Harry, I don't know,' said Hermione reluctantly. 'This isn't really anything −'

'Herm, all I'm asking you is just to find out how far she went with Noah,' said Harry quietly. He'd just seen Neville and Ginny come into the Hall. 'Please do this for me? You'll be a life saver.'

Though reluctant, Hermione conceded, 'All right, but you owe me.'

-o-

When I got down to breakfast Harry was already there sitting with Hermione, Ginny and Neville with them talking to each other. I swallowed, feeling the heat rising in my cheeks already, and walked over to the Gryffindor table. As I approached Harry looked up at me. I swore my cheeks were bright red now so I kept my head down as I poured myself some cereal and a drink. I remained quiet as I ate my breakfast until Hermione spoke to me.

'Is everything OK, Jenna?' she asked. 'You look a bit startled.' I froze mid-mouthful then put my spoon back in my bowl.

'Um, yes,' I said. I kept my eyes firmly away from Harry as I replied. I stared into the dregs of my cereal, pushing around the leftover milk in my bowl. 'Just had a bit of a … surprise this morning.'

'Oh?' said Hermione. 'What kind of surprise?'

'I, er,' I stumbled, not having a clue what to say without embarrassing both Harry and myself. 'I fell out of bed this morning, that's all. Nothing big or anything.'

Harry choked on his drink. I cringed; wrong choice of words there. Hermione looked at him.

'You OK, Harry?'

'Yeah, I'm fine,' he coughed. 'I'm good.'

The rest of breakfast past luckily without anything else being said that could possibly be interpreted as a euphemism. I did not particularly want anything else to remind me of what I thought had happened this morning. A part of me wished I had not gone into Harry's room. What he does in there is his business, not mine. Still, that didn't stop me wondering what it was he had been doing which warranted him shouting out my name. I mean I had a vague idea of what possibly could have been happening but I didn't really want to think about that.

'Are you coming back to the common room, Jen?' I looked up to see Harry and the others all getting ready to leave. I smiled and got up.

'Yeah, sure.'

Harry reached out to take my hand. I went to take his but Harry moved just at the wrong moment causing our hands to miss. I snapped my hand back when it touched the front of his trousers. Both of us blushed. Harry cleared his throat, the red tinge still in his cheeks, and turned towards the doors of the Great Hall. I quickly caught up with him. I took his hand regardless and we walked out the Hall after the others.

After breakfast the five of us returned to the Gryffindor Tower to make an early start on our various pieces of homework we had so we could enjoy the fresh layer of snow that had fallen during the night in the afternoon. The common room was relatively empty when we got back. The only other students in there were the fifth years including Dennis, Demelza and Alison. Taking our favourite chairs in the corner, I took out my Charms textbook to start on the essay Professor Flitwick had set us. Over the following hour I managed to get most of the essay done before the common room was invaded by soaking wet first years complaining about the cold. In amongst them was Noah's little sister, Daniela; I'd kept my word to Noah and kept an eye on her whenever I could and I was glad to see she was fitting in with the other Gryffindors without any troubles. Noah would be proud.

'Madam Pomfrey's going to be getting a lot of students needing Pepper-Up Potions soon,' said Neville, looking over at the drenched students. 'Makes you glad we're old enough to know the Hot Air Charm to warm us up.'

'Yeah, just looking at them is making me shiver,' said Ginny.

Hermione was more concerned though about the water the first years were letting drip on to the carpet. She instantly took charge and began shooing them upstairs to go dry off. I just smirked. In our first year we were just left by the older students to get colds. It was our own faults if we got colds from playing in the snow. I returned to my work as a muttering Hermione came back.

'Seriously!' she huffed. 'It's like they've never seen snow before. They are much more excitable than we ever were.'

'Herm, they're first years,' I laughed. 'They're allowed to be. Don't you remember how excited you were when we first got here?'

Hermione flushed.

'Yes, but I'm a Muggleborn, that was a different kind of excitement. I was thrust into a completely unknown world.'

'I still remember how you were practically bouncing up and down in your seat during our first Potions lesson,' said Harry. Hermione huffed. Harry, Neville and I laughed. 'You were just as excitable as they are now.'

Hermione sat back in her seat muttering again as she carried on with her already two foot long essay on Human Transfiguration for Professor McGonagall. That was when someone else joined us.

'Hey Demelza, can we help?' asked Ginny. 'I cancelled today's practice if you didn't know.'

'No, I already knew that, I saw the notice,' said Demelza. 'I actually wanted to speak to Harry.'

I instantly looked up.

'What's up?' asked Harry.

'I need some help with my DADA homework and you're like the best person to ask,' said Demelza. She gave Harry a wide smile. My eyebrow arched upwards. 'I'm having trouble describing the effects of the Disarming Charm for Professor Lupin's essay so I was wondering if you could show me.'

'Oh, er, all right,' said Harry, putting down his quill. He got up and took out his wand. 'What d'you want to know?'

I watched as Harry walked into the centre of the common room with Demelza. Why on earth did Demelza need Harry's help with the Disarming Charm? Everyone by fifth year knew how to use that spell effectively. My eyes didn't leave the two of them as they started practicing the charm. Harry showed Demelza a couple of times then got her to try to Disarm him. Needless to say her attempt wasn't very good. But I'd seen Demelza do a perfect Disarming Charm last year when we were hiding out in the Room of Requirements. What was she up to?

'Maybe it's the wand movement I'm still getting wrong,' Demelza said, walking over to Harry. 'Show me again.'

'The movement's quite tricky as it's very quick,' said Harry. He raised his wand and flicked his wrist the way you were meant to with the spell. 'It's all in the wrist.'

'Like this?' Demelza copied but still it was wrong. 'Oh, I still can't get it.'

'Here.' Harry stood behind her and took her wand hand. He held it up and guided her hand slowly with his. I raised my eyebrow at what was happening. 'Just like that.' Harry stepped away. 'Think you can do it now?'

'I think so,' said Demelza. 'Expelliarmus!'

Both Demelza and Harry's wands flew out of their hands. You never did a Disarming Charm that close distance, everyone knew that! It had caught Demelza by surprise and she jumped, stumbling into Harry so they both fell to the floor. Demelza sat up, Harry beneath her, laughing.

'Oops,' she giggled, 'sorry about that, Harry. I hope I didn't break your glasses or anything.'

Demelza adjusted Harry's glasses for him, her hand brushing back his hair. I started though when I saw her hand linger on his cheek.

'Harry!' I called before I could stop myself. Harry and Demelza looked at me. I got up and walked over to them. 'Can I speak to you for a moment? In private,' I added, looking at Demelza.

I didn't wait for his answer. I just took his hand and pulled him to his feet before dragging him towards the stairs to the boys' dormitories. I led him up them and into his dormitory. I closed the door behind us then turned to face him.

'What the hell was that?' I asked instantly. 'What was with the flirting with Demelza?'

'What?' said Harry, confused.

'Demelza was blatantly flirting with you and you weren't exactly doing anything to stop her.'

'What? Jen, that's ridiculous. I wasn't flirting with Demelza. She asked me to help her with the Disarming Charm. We weren't flirting.'

'Harry, she flirts with you every time you talk to each other and you always flirt back. I've seen you do it.'

'Jenna,' said Harry flatly, 'I do not flirt with Demelza. Why would I? I've got a girlfriend and she's standing right in front of me.'

'Then what about that letter?' I asked.

'What letter?' questioned Harry.

'That letter from your dad,' I replied. 'The one about the Potter Curse. James said all Potter men are attracted to redheads and destined to marry them.'

'So?'

'I'm not a redhead but Demelza is. Are you attracted to her?'

Harry stared at me as if I'd lost my mind. But it was a reasonable question. James had stated in that letter that Potter men tended to fall for redheads even though he didn't believe it himself and it had kind of worried me if this "curse" was real or not. Anything was possible in the wizarding world and family curses could be one of those things.

'Jenna, you're being ridiculous,' said Harry.

'Just answer the question,' I said. 'Are you attracted to Demelza?'

Harry ran his hand through his hair, then replied, 'Yes, I think she's attractive but I'm not attracted to her. She's not my type. That "Curse" is nothing to be concerned about. It's just some family myth and there's no proof. I don't fall for people because of their hair colour.' Harry stroked my cheek. 'I didn't fall for you because of some curse.'

A small smile came to my face, feeling reassured. Harry smiled back then pulled me into a hug.

'Sorry,' I mumbled. 'It just had me worried, that's all. Something like that can't really be taken likely when magic's involved.'

Harry laughed softly, 'You did overreact a bit.'

I pulled back.

'I overreacted? What about you and Malfoy yesterday? I could say you overreacted too when you punched him.'

'Jen, don't start that again,' warned Harry. 'We've been through this already. He kissed you. I think I was allowed to act like I did.'

'So you're allowed to overreact the moment a guy flirts with me but if a girl flirts with you I'm supposed to be completely fine with it?'

'Malfoy deserved what he got!' snapped Harry. 'If he thought for one minute he was going to get away with kissing you −'

'You're doing it right now,' I said. 'I just have to so much as mention Malfoy and you fly off on one.'

'What d'you expect? For the last seven years Malfoy has made my life hell! And now he's trying to get in between us so he can break us up! How d'you want me to react, Jenna, tell me!'

'I want you to tell me what it is about Malfoy that you see as a threat to us.' Harry made to interrupt me but was taken aback by what I'd said. 'What is it about him that has you acting like this when before you wouldn't give him a second thought?'

Harry didn't answer straight away. Instead he turned away and started pacing about. I watched and waited. He passed back and forth in front of me a couple of times before he came to a halt. Harry kept his back to me as he let out a sigh. He ran his hand through his hair.

'It's my Mum and Snape all over again,' he muttered. What?

'What?' I couldn't see the connection. 'What has your mum and Snape's relationship got to do with ours?'

'It's exactly the same,' said Harry, turning round. 'Mum and Snape had known each other since they were little kids, he hated my Dad with a passion, and he loved Mum more than anything. Just like us: I've known you for as long as I can remember, I can't stand Malfoy, and you're my girlfriend. The only reason things never worked out between them was because Snape accidentally called Mum a Mudblood when Dad was bullying him and their friendship ended. Then in comes Dad and they get together leaving Snape resentful.'

'And you're worried that's going to happen to us?' I asked.

Harry didn't reply. I didn't know what to say. Surely our relationship was stronger than that? I wasn't going to end things if Harry accidentally called me something like that. But Harry truly seemed worried by that thought. He wouldn't look at me but he nodded. Slowly I approached him. I raised my hands and placed them on either side of his face before proceeding to kiss him. Harry responded, his hands gripping my waist. After a few moments I pulled back.

'That is not going to happen to us,' I told him. 'I'm not going to break up with you the moment you make a silly mistake like that and Malfoy is never going to win my affections, especially after yesterday. Just because it happened to them doesn't mean it's going to happen to us. Our relationship means much more to me than that.'

'Time has a habit of repeating itself though,' said Harry quietly.

'And every time we've been separated in the past, one of us has found the way back,' I reminded him. The corner of Harry's lip twitched. 'I gave you my heart, remember? I'm not going to be asking for it back anytime soon.'

'I don't plan on giving it back for a long time,' Harry assured me.

Relationships truly weren't my strong point. It kind of made me glad it was Harry I was with and not some other guy. I mean my relationship with Noah had been fairly smooth compared to this (apart from having feelings for someone else at same time). But at least when I was with Noah I didn't have all this jealousy flying around; I had never been worried about another girl flirting with Noah and I had been completely loyal to him, never flirting with other guys and always felt guilty whenever Harry and I crossed each other.

I sighed and flopped back on my bed, 'When did it all get so complex? I swear it was never this hard with Noah.'

Having done the majority of my homework through the day I was left free to relax after dinner and had returned to the Head's Tower early while Harry had a boys night with Seamus, Dean and Neville. That was why I was so surprised when I heard Ambrosia's voice calling up to me. I got up and went downstairs.

'A girl is here to see you,' said Ambrosia happily before prancing back to her own portrait.

I stared at the portrait Ambrosia had just been in then walked to the entrance. Pushing back her portrait I saw Hermione standing on the other side.

'Hey, Hermione. What brings you here?'

'Thought you could do with some company,' said Hermione. I stood aside and let Hermione in; her eyes widened when she saw the common room Harry and I shared. 'Whoa, this is the Heads Tower? Why has it taken me this long to come visit?'

'Probably because Harry and I are always in the Gryffindor Tower with you guys?' I suggested, closing Ambrosia's portrait. 'I don't know, the Tower's OK but I definitely prefer the atmosphere in the Gryffindor Tower. Then again, it's nice here when you need peace and quiet.'

'We have got to hang out here more,' said Hermione. 'All this space and you don't even use it!'

I rolled my eyes. I sat down on the sofa, Hermione sitting beside me.

'So you came with a sense of purpose,' I said straightaway. Hermione stared at me. 'How many years have I known you, Herm? I know when you want to talk about something.'

'All right, yes, I did have a motive,' said Hermione. 'I need some advice.'

'From me?' I said, surprised. Why would Hermione be coming to me for advice? 'What sort of advice?'

'I need some help with Ron,' said Hermione. She sounded quite nervous about it. I raised my eyebrow. 'You and Noah were together quite a long time, weren't you?'

'Yeah, seven months give or take. But what's that got to do with anything?'

'Well, Ron and I have been together for about that long now and I just wanted to know how long it took for you and Noah to start moving further,' said Hermione. 'You know, start doing more than just kissing.'

I stared at Hermione for a moment or two. This was the last thing I ever thought Hermione would ask me about.

'Are you wanting to go further with Ron, is that it?' I asked. Hermione didn't reply straight away. She seemed to think about it before answering.

'Yeah, I do,' she replied. 'It's been ages since we last saw each other and it'd be nice to do something … special when we get back for Christmas.' I nodded.

'So you want to know how far I went with Noah?'

Hermione nodded. I thought for a moment and pulled my legs up beneath me.

'It's hard to say,' I started after a while. 'While Noah and I weren't in the place Harry and I or you and Ron are at this point, by now in our relationship … Noah and I had had some sexual interaction.' Hermione's eyes widened. It was quite a surprise for her. I hadn't ever told anyone what had happened between Noah and I that night in the summer term of sixth year. 'It was only the one night. We didn't really get enough time together for it to go further than that.'

'Did you sleep with him?' asked Hermione.

'No, no I didn't sleep with him,' I said casually. 'He did ask me if I was ready but it didn't happen. I wasn't at all ready for that to happen, even with Noah. Unfortunately that wasn't going to help him. He told me that for a while by then he'd been having dreams about me and was getting aroused by them so when he kissed me again that night, the first time in ages, he got a hard-on.'

'Hang on, was this when you guys got back together?' I nodded. 'Wow, Jen, that's pretty intense and fast.'

'I know,' I said, 'but I was OK with it even though I didn't want to have sex with him.'

'So what happened?'

'Well we were in his dormitory. Luckily most of his roommates including McLaggen were all slumped down in the common room from the party after Gryffindor won the Quidditch Cup. So we were lying on his bed with the hangings drawn and we were just kissing like normal. Then Noah pulls away and groans. I asked him what was wrong but he didn't reply. He just took my hand and placed it on the crotch of his trousers.'

Hermione gasped. It was quite shocking, especially for someone like Noah, but that's the thing. Noah was never one to beat around the bush with these sort of things. He told it like it was and always got straight to the point.

'Needless to say I was quite startled. I didn't really know what to do. That's when Noah asked me if I was ready or not and I told him I wasn't and he respected that. But it didn't hide the fact he had a boner so I asked if there was anything I could do, beside the obvious. Noah said there was one thing and he unbuckled his trousers. He told me not to worry and that he'd guide me through it. Though apprehensive about it I agreed. He took my hand again and guided them both into his boxers. He told me to keep focused on his eyes, to not look away. I did so and he slowly started to … pleasure himself.'

'Jenna, that's unbelievable,' breathed Hermione. 'He just masturbated with you beside him?'

I nodded, 'Pretty much. It felt strange though, and when his eyes glazed over when he came it scared me as he seemed to just go into spasm or something. I'd certainly never experienced that when I masturbated so I panicked and pulled away instantly but within a few seconds he was fine, stroking my hair to reassure me and stuff. When he told me that was a natural reaction, I relaxed, even kind of glad that I did it.'

Hermione stared at me in amazement. I merely shrugged.

'I can't believe you gave him a hand-job,' she said eventually.

'Half a hand-job,' I corrected her. 'He did most of the work.' There was a short silence held between us before I asked, 'So does that answer your question? Is a hand-job what you want to give to Ron as an early Christmas present?' I joked. Hermione laughed.

'Yeah, it does,' she said, smiling. I smiled back, glad to help.

-o-

Harry opened the door to find Hermione standing on the other side. She looked rather anxious. Glancing behind him at the other boys, Harry slipped out of the dormitory and closed the door.

'Did you ask her?' he asked. Hermione nodded. 'So what did she say?'

'You are not going to believe this.'

-o-

The end of the term was approaching and it was clear that the majority of the students were looking forward to the Christmas holidays. I too was looking forward to the holidays. It was going to be the first Christmas I got to spend with my whole family and not at the Weasley's for once, not that I didn't enjoy that. Of course, Molly had sent Harry, Hermione and I all a note saying we were more than welcome to come to The Burrow for dinner on Christmas day. Hermione was certainly happy about that as she'd finally get to see Ron again. But as the teachers reminded us, we still had two weeks of school left. Some teachers though had a more relaxed view to it.

'Yes, yes, I know you're all excited about the Christmas holidays,' said Professor Lupin, 'but unfortunately that doesn't mean we can just stop our studies. However, it also doesn't mean we can't have a little fun.'

You could always rely on Lupin to make our Tuesday afternoon's Defence Against the Dark Arts lesson entertaining. Besides the chaos that always occurs in Charms, DADA was the other lesson you could usually guarantee something fun was going to happen. Today was no different. Having spent the majority of the term learning Sensing, Lupin decided to put us to the test. Having gained permission from Professor McGonagall and assurance that Filch wouldn't put a stop to it, Lupin initiated a game similar to a Muggle one called hide-and-seek where we, the class, had to make it back to the classroom without getting Stunned by Lupin by using Sensing to avoid his attack. Easier said than done considering Lupin knew almost every secret passageway in the castle from when he was at school. The real test was not so much the Sensing but trying to outsmart Lupin in ways of getting back to the classroom.

'Creative, I must admit, quite a few of you were very creative,' said Professor Lupin once he'd gathered us at the end of class. 'Although I don't think relying on Peeves to distract me quite counts.' The bell rang and we started to collect our things. 'I want one roll of parchment on what you learnt today from using Sensing, the cheating not included.'

The class departed. I hung back though to talk to Lupin as I hadn't spoken to him outside of class for ages.

'That was a great lesson, Professor,' I said. Lupin looked up from his desk as he put some sheaves of parchment into his briefcase. I walked over to him.

'You don't have to call me "Professor" now, Jenna,' said Remus. 'Class has finished.'

'All right, Remus.' I laughed. Remus merely rolled his eyes though he was still smiling. 'So what are you plans for Christmas? Are you coming over to Mum and Dad's or are you going to Andromeda's with Dora and Teddy?'

'Nothing's been decided yet though Sirius said something about a big family get together at one of our houses,' said Remus. 'He and Dora are meant to be sorting it out but Dora and I have other plans this holiday as well.'

I took a seat on a nearby desk, intrigued.

'What other plans?' I asked. 'Oh, you mean Teddy's christening?'

'Yes, Teddy's christening is one of them,' said Remus, 'however there's a slightly more important occasion which I am trying to coincide with it. Which reminds me, I've got an important question to ask you.' I looked at Remus curiously as he leant against his desk facing me. 'Jenna, I would be very much honoured if you would be our bridesmaid.'

'But you're already married,' I said confused. 'I was a bridesmaid at your wedding.'

'Yes, that's true,' said Remus. 'But I feel that Dora deserves a proper wedding as opposed to what we had at the Ministry last year. I may not be able to give her the big white wedding she dreams of but I can at least give her more than what we had. Now only James, Sirius and I know but Dora doesn't and you can't tell her,' I nodded, 'but hopefully, if I can swing it, it's going to be straight after Teddy's christening.'

'Remus, that's so sweet and of course I'll be your bridesmaid,' I said. 'But if it's going to be after Teddy's christening, what are you going to do about her wedding dress? She never had one and if it's a secret, it'll be a bit suspicious if she has to go and get one without a reason.'

'That's where you come in,' said Remus. I raised my eyebrow. Remus grinned. This had to be his Marauder side I decided; Remus never plotted like this without encouragement. 'It was Sirius's idea. All you need to do is take one of Dora's dress which I'll give to you to Madam Malkin's and she'll do the rest. You can get your bridesmaid dress at the same time. Dora will be none the wiser.'

'Once a Marauder, always a Marauder,' I muttered, shaking my head. Remus laughed.

Teddy's christening and Remus and Dora's second wedding was to be just after Christmas. It was a good job I'd already planned to go to Diagon Alley to do some shopping for Mum, Dad and Harry when I got home seeing as I now had a bridesmaid dress to find as well.

Finally the last few days of term were in sight and I couldn't be more relieved. Having Head Girl duties along with Quidditch and studying for my NEWTs was not always easy to juggle and I needed a break. The workload for our NEWTs was unbelievable and for the first time it looked like I'd be doing revision through the holidays to make sure I kept on top of everything before my exams in June. Being able to do magic outside school was going to make it a lot easier as I'd be able to practice the spells for our practicals.

The last few days of term I spent finishing off any leftover essays I had and packing up my things for the holidays as I wasn't spending them at Hogwarts. By Thursday night I was more than ready to go home. I went to bed early that night so that I was prepared for the rush that would be getting all the students down to Hogsmeade station tomorrow. Not all of us were as relaxed though.

I was woken up around one a.m. by a noise coming from the common room. Intrigued, I got up and left my dormitory. There was still a light visible down in the common room. I walked down the stairs and looked round; there on the sofa was Harry. He was pouring over a piece of parchment I knew to be his last essay. The odd book lay open on the floor at his feet. I sighed. I padded softly across the floor, my bare feet barely making a sound. I tilted my head to one side, a small sympathetic smile on my face. Harry didn't notice I was there straightaway. He only looked up when he saw my shadow on the floor.

'How's it going?' I asked though the answer was pretty obvious.

'Not very well,' sighed Harry. He ruffled his hair and stared at his work. 'McGonagall's essay on reversing part-human transfigurations is really confusing.'

'You need a break,' I said, like he'd told me earlier in the term when I had been stressed out. I took the essay out of Harry's hands and placed it on the floor. Harry looked up at me; for a brief moment I thought I saw him tense. I smiled. 'Just relax.'

I stepped forwards so I stood in front of him. I lifted my leg and rested it on the sofa. I leant forwards and placed my hands on either side of Harry's face, raising it. The edges of his lips twisted into a crooked grin. My smile grew and I moved closer. I tilted my head just enough so that my lips fitted perfectly against Harry's in a deep kiss. It lasted several seconds until I felt Harry's lips move against mine. He raised his hand and ran it through my hair, holding my face to his. His other hand pressed gently on my lower back to bring me closer. I lifted my other leg and placed it on the sofa so I straddled Harry's lap, lightly resting on him. Harry ran his tongue over my lips asking for entrance. A moan escaped the back of my throat and I complied. His hot breath blew into my mouth mingling with my own.

I moved closer, Harry leaning back until he rested on the arm of the sofa. He placed his foot on the cushion so his knee was behind me. I shifted my position so I sat on it comfortably, making my hips press against his, not that it bothered me. Our kisses deepened as Harry's tongue entered my mouth. It brushed the roof of it and played against my own. Shivers raced down my spine and I felt that familiar need again. I moved even closer, desperate to feel him against me. My body gently ran up Harry's as I leaned over him, the pace of our kissing increasing –

My eyes snapped open as Harry froze beneath me. We broke the kiss. Neither of us said a word. My heart was racing as I stared at him while my chest heaved from lack of air. Harry stared back at me, panting, his eyes wide in shock as if something dreadful had happened. Slowly I closed my eyes. I bit my lip and looked down. A small bulge was pressing into my thigh hidden only by Harry's trousers of which appeared to be straining at the zip. My cheeks flushed and I instantly crawled backwards off Harry; Harry also scrambled back, pulling his knees up to hide the bulge. His cheeks were as red as mine.

I stared at him, not knowing what to do or say. Harry had never had … one of those with me before. I was torn between a mixture of complete embarrassment by the situation but also … excitement. A thrill rushed through me at the thought of being able to arouse Harry like that. The corner of my lip turned up into a smile. Harry was getting aroused by me. I felt my cheeks grow hotter as the thought crossed my mind. Across from me Harry was sitting in just an uncomfortable position as I was. I couldn't begin to imagine what must've been going through his head.

I took a deep breath and opened my mouth to speak, knowing I should say something. Harry beat me to it.

'I'm sorry, you weren't meant to … feel that!' blurted Harry. 'I didn't mean to − it just happened −'

I couldn't help myself; a laugh rose in my throat and I couldn't stop it. Poor Harry blushed even more. I saw this.

'Hey, it's OK,' I told him. I got to my knees and crawled over to him. Harry moved back, his legs keeping us separated. Merlin, he really was embarrassed about this. My laughing probably hadn't helped. 'I'm actually quite … flattered.'

Harry's eyebrows arched upwards in surprise. 'You are?'

'Yeah,' I replied softly. 'It's quite a compliment for me, knowing I turn you on.' Harry's face retained its flush, however, the edge of his lip twitched into a grin. 'So is this why you were so uncomfortable with me over the last couple of months?' I asked. 'Because you were trying to hide your arousal?'

Harry swallowed and nodded.

'I didn't want to scare you,' he said. 'I thought if you knew I was getting … aroused by you, it would scare you, like we were moving too fast or something.'

'You should have told me,' I said. 'I was thinking you were going off me because you kept pulling away.'

'Quite the contrary, Jen,' breathed Harry. He shifted his legs slightly. I giggled.

'Well I'm glad that's all sorted out,' I said, moving closer. Harry stared at me. I smiled. 'I do hope it's not going to be a problem for us.'

I moved closer and placed my hand on Harry's knee. I put just enough pressure on it so Harry would lower it, his leg going off the edge of the sofa and revealing the bulge again. My heart skipped a beat when I saw it. I couldn't help but wonder what it looked like without Harry's trousers in the way. I bit my lip. Harry still had a nervous look on his face. I smiled to relax him though inside I was probably as nervous as he was. I inched closer to sit between his legs, Harry sitting up slightly.

Closing my eyes I pressed my lips against Harry's to once again resume the kiss. They started long and slow as we got back into our previous rhythm. Harry sat up as they continued, his hand going to my neck to raise my face. His nerves no longer seemed to be there as he once again kissed me the way he did before I assumed all this trouble had started. Poor Harry, being worried about how I'd react to him being aroused by me. If anything it was kind of a relief; least I knew what he'd been doing in his room now.

A contented sigh escaped my throat as Harry's arm went round my waist and bought me closer. He lowered me on to the sofa then gentle rested above me. I wrapped my arms round his neck, tangling my fingers into his wild hair. This was bliss. Harry's kisses eventually moved away from my lips to my neck while his hand trailed up my thigh. He shifted his position slightly so his hips pressed into mine and he let out a groan. It was like nothing I'd heard before. But then once again my nerves got the better of me. I'd felt Harry's fingers lightly graze my piercing before travelling lower. They trailed over my stomach and I felt them brush the waistband of my pyjamas bottoms. Ever so slowly Harry began to lower them, his hand sliding lower until −

Instantly my eyes snapped open and I broke the kiss. I grabbed Harry's hand to stop him going further. My heart was racing as I stared up at Harry. He stared back, a worried look in his eyes.

'What's wrong?' he asked, concerned. Luckily he'd removed his hand.

'I can't,' I breathed. Harry looked at me in confusion. I swallowed and tried again. 'I'm not ready for this …'

A silence followed after that. Harry stared at me for a few more moment before he sat up, moving off me. I did so too, readjusting my clothes. I watched Harry as he sat there staring at the fireplace. Eventually he looked at me.

'Do you not want to go further with me?' he asked me. I remained silent, bracing myself for Harry's reaction to my next reply. I shook my head.

'I do but I'm not ready,' I told him.

'But I thought you were OK with −'

'I am but that doesn't mean I'm ready to sleep with you. We can still do more but I'm just not comfortable being touched like that yet.' I paused, watching Harry's reaction. He didn't reply. 'Harry, I'm sorry but I'm just not ready to take that step.'

The disappointment was evident in Harry's eyes; those emerald eyes portrayed almost every emotion Harry was able to have. I couldn't begin to imagine how Harry was taking this; it had just been confirmed that Harry was getting aroused by me and wanted to go further and I could do nothing to reciprocate this. I didn't want to lose my virginity, not quite yet at least. The silence dragged on, now unbearable, as Harry and I sat there. After a couple more minutes Harry got up.

'Harry?'

'I'm, er, going to bed,' Harry muttered quietly. 'I've − er − I'm gonna −'

'Harry, wait!'

I got up and followed him, grabbing his hand to stop him. I may not want to sleep with him yet but like I told Hermione about what happened with Noah, I wasn't completely uncomfortable about the situation nor what I could do to help … relieve him I guess would be the best way to put it. Harry stopped and looked over his shoulder at me. I kept my face neutral as I moved closer to him. I placed my hand on his shoulder and moved him back against the wall, then proceeding to kiss him with as much passion as I could muster. It caught Harry by surprise considering my previous reaction and I felt him tense. It didn't stop me though. I pulled myself closer until there wasn't a centimetre of space between our bodies, determined to show Harry I wasn't completely unready.

Harry's arms wrapped round me just like I'd hoped. I raised my leg and ran my bare foot up his calf. Harry reacted, his hand running over my thigh so he could hold it in place. I could feel his erection press against my leg, more prominent than before. We remained like this for a minute or two, just kissing, until I heard what I wanted. A groan escaped Harry's throat indicating he was more than aroused. Now it was my turn.

Hesitantly I moved my hand down Harry's chest to his waist. I trailed my fingers lightly across the top of his trousers until I found the buckle of his belt. I managed to undo it though I could feel my hands shaking. Quickly I undid the button as fly and ran my hand over his hip, pushing down his trousers to reveal his boxers. Harry so far had not reacted. That was about to change.

Subtly I moved my hand lower until I found the band of his boxers and slipped it inside. Instantly Harry shuddered, breaking the kiss, as I ran my hand gently over his erection. He jerked forwards so his forehead rested on my shoulder, his breathing all of a sudden a lot deeper than before. I paused my movements, giving him a chance to relax.

'Jen …'

'Ssh,' I breathed into his ear. 'It's OK.'

Slowly I started to move my hand back and forth over his erection. Harry tensed, his breathing turning to pants. His grip on my waist and thigh tightened. I kept my movement steady, gradually increasing the pace and varying the pressure like Noah had shown me. I was well aware now that Harry must have masturbated before but I didn't know what he liked so it was mainly trial and error. But when a second groan issued from him I knew Harry was more than enjoying this. I quickened the pace and increased my grip. Harry gasped, standing straight so his head was against the wall.

'Jen,' he growled. His voice had changed to that one I couldn't resist, deep and husky. 'That's not helping. I −' Harry groaned again. 'Oh God!' he breathed, his eyes shut.

His hips twitched which I took as a sign meaning he was close. I moved closer, pressing myself into him completely and resting my face in the crook of his neck where I began to kiss him, teasing him over his pulse point. His hips jerked a second time.

'Jenna, I'm gonna −' Harry panted, 'come …' he groaned harshly.

I stopped my attentions on his neck only to whisper, 'Then do so.'

With one last strong jerk of his hips I felt Harry release. His body froze between mine and the wall and his breathing seemed to stop for the length of his climax. I remained where I was nestled against him, my hand still in his damp boxers. After a moment or so Harry fell forwards slightly so his forehead rested against mine and I removed my hand. He opened his eyes and looked down on me. I looked back then reached up and kissed his lips.

'Better?'

'Much …'

Like I said, just because I wasn't quite ready for sex didn't mean I couldn't do other things.

The next day there was the usual scramble between all the students to get the Thestral carriages down to Hogsmeade station. Harry and I had to help Professor McGonagall keep them in an orderly manner as they walked down towards the front gates of the school before we were able to get a carriage ourselves. Once there we met up with Hermione, Ginny and Neville as Hagrid took over us and we grabbed a compartment together near the back of the train. Luna joined us when the train started moving, claiming she had seen a Nargle scaring one of the Thestrals. The five of us just looked at each other, holding in are amusement.

The train sped along the tracks through the winter countryside, the snow blurring the hills into a large white mass. I stared out of the window as it past. I couldn't help but wonder what this Christmas will bring. The first proper family Christmas I'd ever had. The first one spent without my friends. As much as I loved going to The Burrow for Christmas with the Weasleys sometimes it was a bit overwhelming but I was still going to miss it this year, not being with Ron, Hermione, Ginny and the rest of the Weasleys. Still, what could be better than Christmas with your own family?

Eventually the train began to slow and within no time the Hogwarts Express was pulling into platform nine and three-quarters. Once Hermione had got Crookshanks back in his cage we gathered are things and joined the queue to get off the train. All our parents were gathered there waiting for us as well as Ron which got Hermione excited, all of us going off to greet ours. I was met with a massive hug from Mum as Dad took my trunk and Gadget's cage. Beside me Harry was talking to James and Lily about his first term; Ginny was being strangled in one of Molly's usual hugs; Luna and Neville were chatting as were old Xeno Lovegood and Neville's grandma; and Mr and Mrs Granger watched on as Hermione and Ron made up for some lost time, proud smiles on both their faces.

Luna and Neville were the first to depart, waving goodbye back at us as they passed through the barrier. Arthur soon got us moving and the rest of us made our way through the barrier back to the Muggle world. Hermione was next to leave as Mr Granger mentioned about parking fees and that they had to leave. With the instruction that we had to meet up over the holidays, Hermione said goodbye to me, Harry and Ginny before giving Ron a long kiss, then headed off with her parents. The rest of us walked together to the exit of Kings Cross where we were to separate; the Weasleys were travelling home via Ministry car while we were going to find a safe place to Apparate home. Ron and Ginny wished Harry and I a "Happy Christmas" before getting into the black cab and disappearing into the traffic.

'So, um, are you heading straight home or have you got plans?' Harry asked as we walked down the street to find a safe place to Apparate away from Muggle eyes. 'Because I was thinking, if you're free, you could come over and watch a film or something.'

'Sorry, Harry, I'm busy,' I replied. 'It's Dad's birthday so we're kind of doing something now I'm home. Dad kind of wants it to be a family thing so …'

'Oh, that's fine,' said Harry. I guess he could understand why without me needing to say it, given Dad's history. We followed our parents round a corner and into an alleyway. Harry stopped us slightly away from them. 'So will I see you sometime this Christmas?'

'Of course, you will,' I said. 'D'you think I'm passing up the opportunity to kiss you under the mistletoe?' Harry grinned. 'Course we're going to see each other. It wouldn't be right if we didn't. But if you want, you can meet up with me in Diagon Alley next week and help me find something for Mum and Dad for Christmas. Plus I might need your opinion on something.'

'Oh?' Harry raised his eyebrows. 'What sort of something?'

'Ah, now that would be telling,' I teased. 'Let's just say you'll like it when you see it most likely.' Harry grinned. I secretly rolled my eyes. That's when I heard Dad calling me. 'I've got to go. I'll see you soon, yeah?'

Harry nodded then gave me a quick kiss.

'Owl me when you want to go to Diagon Alley and we'll go together.'

I nodded then walked over to join my parents. Handing Dad my trunk and keeping a firm hold on Gadget's cage, I gave Harry one last smile and span on the spot, Disapparating away from the alley and back to Godric's Hollow. It was good to be home. Dad told me to go and unpack while he and Mum made some lunch. It didn't take long considering I now just had to flick my wand and my trunk unpacked itself but I thought it best to change into something nicer for whatever Dad wanted to do for his birthday. I also took his present out of my trunk to give it to him. When I was done I went back downstairs into the kitchen. It looked like it was sandwiches for lunch.

'You're looking nice, Jen,' commented Sirius when I walked in. 'But if I were you I'd go back and change into some old clothes.'

'Old clothes?' I didn't understand. I took a seat at the table and helped myself to a sandwich. 'I thought we were doing something together for your birthday?'

'We are,' said Tala. 'Just it's not the usual sort of thing.'

'So what are we doing?'

I looked at Dad. He merely grinned before transforming into Padfoot. He barked loudly before grabbing a sandwich off the table and running to the back door and letting himself out into the garden.

'Sirius!' shouted Tala. 'What have I told you about taking food when you're Padfoot?' Dad's reply was another loud bark. Mum sighed in frustration before transforming herself and running after him.

Any other family, Muggle in particular, would have been completely bemused by this behaviour. As it was my family, I was more than used to it and so was in stitches with laughter watching Mum and Dad fighting as a pair of dogs in the garden. Still, Dad said he wanted to do something as a family and what was more family for us than that? Flicking my wand to change my clothes again, I finished my sandwich and ran into the garden after Mum and Dad. There was a nice layer of snow on the ground, deep enough to make great paw print patterns. Taking a run up, I jumped forwards and transformed into a black dog similar to Mum and Dad before joining in with the chase.

I'd never had so much fun in my life and what was better was that it was with my Mum and Dad. Running around as dogs in our back garden had to be the best thing ever. Just rolling around in the snow and play-fighting with each other beat any normal family activity a Muggle family would do. Of course, by the end of it, we were all soaked from the snow which gave Dad the excuse to shake himself when Mum and I had transformed back to our human forms.

'Dad!'

'Sirius!'

Dad merely laughed when he transformed back. Mum and I looked at each other then back at Dad. She wasn't a Marauder and I wasn't the daughter of two Marauder's for no reason. Seeing our shifty looks Dad backed away slightly only to be pushed back outside into the snow face first. Mum and I were in hysterics at Dad's reaction. Served him right.

'Oh, I haven't had that much fun in years,' sighed Dad. He came and sat down next to me on the sofa. Having now dried off but still very cold Dad had lit a fire while Mum made us some hot chocolate. Outside the sky had completely darkened. Dad wrapped his arm round my shoulders and pulled me closer. I felt him kiss the top of my hair. 'It's good to have you home, Jen.'

'It's good to be home,' I replied. 'To be able to spend Christmas with you.'

'Hmm,' mused Sirius. 'I haven't had a proper family Christmas in years. Christmas in Grimmauld was usually just another excuse for a family argument. Your Mum and I never had Christmas together either, did we Tal?' he asked when Mum walked in; three cups of steaming hot chocolate came floating in after her. We each took a mug as Mum sat down on the other side of me.

'We went to each other's house during the Christmas holidays when we were at school,' said Tala. 'But no, we never did have a Christmas together.'

'Well then here's to our first family Christmas,' said Sirius. He held up his mug.

'And hopefully they'll be many more,' I added.

The first few days of the Christmas holidays were basically spent preparing for Christmas. While Dad continued to arrange with Dora when we could all meet up, between us Mum and I sorted out everything else such as decorating the house, the presents, any food we wanted over the holidays and sending out Christmas cards. Because we didn't own any Christmas decorations it meant I got to practice my Conjuring skills for Professor Flitwick so you'd just find me standing somewhere in the house deep in thought before pointing my wand and hoping the right sort of decoration came out of it. When it came to the tree, however, it was my job to go out and get some proper decorations for it so I went into the village to see what it had to offer.

Godric's Hollow was beautiful in the snow. Admittedly cold so I was wrapped up in my coat and scarf but I still loved the winter atmosphere. Through the windows of the Muggle houses I could see other families busily getting ready for Christmas as well; in the streets people were rushing about doing last minute shopping, singing carols in the square, the kids were having snowball fights. Some of them waved to me as I passed; because Godric's Hollow was such a small village it meant virtually everyone knew everyone and I had become quite popular with the younger kids as they thought there was something "special" about me. Being from one of the few wizarding families living here, I wasn't really surprised. As I walked past, I casually flicked my wand in their direction; a small breeze suddenly whipped up the snow around them creating a mini-snowfall. The kids laughed and screamed in excitement and began dancing as the snow fell on to them. With them entertained, I went into the local store and found some tree decorations.

The following Wednesday before Christmas I was to meet Harry in Diagon Alley. I was up early getting ready and making sure I knew what I wanted to that we didn't get caught in the Christmas rush. Grabbing my coat, I told Mum and Dad I'd see them later before Apparating to the Leaky Cauldron. I appeared in Charing Cross behind a bookshop. Checking no one had seen me, I walked across the street and into the hidden pub. The warm atmosphere instantly enveloped me. Waving at Tom I walked through the pub towards the hidden entrance of Diagon Alley. I took out my wand and tapped the correct bricks to reveal the street behind it. It was as busy as ever, wizards and witches walking briskly about with their children being dragged away from the windows of Quality Quidditch Supplies and Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes. It was then that a pair of hands covered my eyes.

'Harry, you loon,' I said, taking his hands and removing them. Harry grinned and pulled me into his arms, kissing my cheek.

'Happy Christmas,' he whispered into my ear. I shivered slightly at his deep tone.

'Happy Christmas to you too,' I replied. 'Has it been as hectic for you as it has been for me?'

Taking my hand Harry and I started down the street.

'You cannot begin to imagine how glad I am to be out of the house,' joked Harry.

'Oh?'

'It's been like being back at The Burrow. Mum's almost as bossy as Molly is when it comes to organising things, except without all the shouting though Mum does have a bit of a temper on her according to Dad. I swear it must be a redhead thing.' Harry pulled me closer. 'Makes me glad you're not a redhead.'

I merely rolled my eyes.

The majority of the morning Harry and I spent looking around the shops for the last few presents we each had to get. I still had to buy Mum and Dad's, something for Remus as well as something for Harry. I'd already sorted out Teddy, Dora and Andromeda's presents. After a while I'd managed to find what I was after: I got Mum a bottle of perfume I thought she'd like; I got Dad a new wand holster for while he still worked at the Ministry as an Auror though he had mentioned he might decide to pack it in in the New Year; telling Harry to disappear for a while, I got his present, a new book on Quidditch; and Remus, though you'd think he wasn't the type to wear jewellery, I got a wooden bead necklace similar to my own but with a wolf's claw as a pendant, as a reminder of when he was still able to be called Moony.

Though I was glad Remus was no longer infected with the lycanthropy, I couldn't help but miss the full moons I used to spend with him. His being a werewolf was what had helped create the Marauders; James and Sirius (and Pettigrew) had become Animagi to help Remus, each being given nicknames, but now only three of the remaining four could still transform into animals. Even though it was my blood I'd used when I bought him and the others back (with the aid of Fawkes's magic I'd possessed at the time) Remus had shown no signs of being able to transform like Mum and I could and so the Marauders, though reunited, were still broken in a sense as they could no longer run around together as animals.

'You seem deep in thought. What's up?'

We were still in the jewellers shop when Harry's voice disturbed my thoughts. I looked up at him, not realising I'd faded out.

'Oh, just reminiscing,' I muttered. I then handed the necklace to the shop owner and paid for it. 'I kind of miss the full moons I used to spend with Remus.'

'Course, he's not a werewolf anymore,' said Harry. 'Still, least he's getting the life he deserves now. He's happily married to Dora and they've got Teddy.'

'Hmm.'

My eyes involuntarily flicked to where all the rings were being kept. Marriage was never really something I'd thought about in the past, considering last year I didn't even know if I was going to live long enough for that. To be honest I didn't even think marriage would suit me; as much as I'd love to spend my life with one man, at eighteen, I couldn't imagine being tied down like that unless I was deeply in love with the man I was with. And it takes a long time to fall in love. Marriage was truly one of the last things on my mind. In the cabinet there were dozens of rings, each of them set with a stone of some sorts. Harry noticed.

'Seen any you like?' I gave him a bemused look.

'Harry, they're engagement rings,' I said. 'I don't think we're shopping for those.'

'No, go on,' said Harry. He pushed me over to them. 'Are there any you like?'

Knowing it was pointless, I humoured Harry and had a look. They were all very beautiful but none of them really sparked my interest. All the same traditional diamond rings with expensive price tags attached. Except one. It was in the back row hidden amongst some very flashy and expensive rings. It was a simple silver ring with a single diamond set in the metal, a ruby either side of it. I pointed it out to Harry.

'I like that one. It's simple but elegant at the same time. But what does it matter? I don't see myself getting married anytime soon. It's just a distant dream.' I turned and headed for the door. 'You coming?'

Harry stood there for a moment before walking over to me and we left the shop.

All this talk about marriage suddenly reminded me that I had to go to Madam Malkin's to sort out Dora's wedding dress and a bridesmaid dress for me. Harry was a little confused when we walked into the shop but I told him to just take a seat and wait for me. I disappeared with Madam Malkin to the back of the store where all the bridal stuff was and handed her a picture of Dora and one of her dresses so she had the right size. Madam Malkin thought for a moment then flicked her wand at one of the numerous dresses. A few flicks later Madam Malkin held the dress up for me to see. My eyes widened at how quickly she'd done the dress. It looked amazing. Setting the tissue paper to wrap up the dress, Madam Malkin turned to me. In no time at all she was flicking through the dresses until she found one she was happy with and got me to try it on.

'Jenna?' I froze when I heard Harry's voice come from the front of the store. I was currently standing up on a platform in a bridesmaid gown so Madam Malkin could alter it for me. 'How much longer are you going to …'

Harry trailed off when his eyes fell on me. I just stared back. His eyes took in every inch of me and the dress. It was a long white gown with a corset top and ruffled off-the-shoulder sleeves, the corset itself defining my chest. My hair fell either side of me as I stood there.

'… be?'

'I'll give you two a minute,' said Madam Malkin. Putting away her pins, she got up and picked up Dora's dress. When she'd gone I lifted the edge of the dress and stepped off the platform.

'Harry, it's not what you think,' was the first thing I said. 'Remus is trying to arrange for him and Dora to get married properly without her knowing and I'm to be her bridesmaid and he left me in charge of getting her wedding dress and my bridesmaid dress and −'

I was cut off by Harry pressing his lips on mine.

'I didn't think that at all,' he said, pulling back. 'All I could think of was how beautiful you look in that dress.' I blushed instantly. Harry laughed. 'You're cute when you blush. And don't worry, I won't tell. Your secret's safe with me. I'll leave you to finish here then we'll go have a drink.'

Once the alterations were done to my dress I paid for both of them and Harry and I left the shop. We walked down the street to Florean Fortescue's. The shop was pretty busy but Harry and I managed to get a small booth at the back of the room. I put the bags under the chairs while Harry went and got us a couple of Butterbeers.

'One Butterbeer, nicely warmed,' said Harry. He handed me my drink then slid into the booth beside me. One sip and I was instantly warmed from the inside.

'Nothing beats a warm Butterbeer in the wintertime,' I breathed. 'So what are your plans for Christmas?' I then asked Harry. 'Are you going to The Burrow on Christmas Day for Molly's infamous Christmas dinner?'

'Yeah, I was planning to,' said Harry. 'Wouldn't be Christmas without it. I assume you're going too?' I nodded. 'So … I guess we'll be keeping a lid on our affections again while we're there, seeing as Ron still doesn't know about us.'

'Oh yeah, I'd forgotten about that,' I said. 'How are we going to tell him? He's going to be pretty pissed off, especially when he finds out how long it's been going on.'

'We'll figure it out,' said Harry. 'Maybe Hermione can sweet talk him beforehand or something. Either way, we've got to tell him soon. Better we tell him than him finding out from someone else. I think a good portion of the school have suspicions that we're seeing each other now as everyone knows Ginny and Neville are together, not just Gryffindor. If all else fails though we've always got Ginny's Bat Bogey Hex as a threat if he overreacts.'

I laughed though slightly half-heartedly, my eyes lowered. Harry smiled. I felt his hand brush back my hair before touching my cheek. I lifted my eyes to see him gazing at me, his face close to mine, his green eyes glinting. We sat there together in a comfortable silence for a moment or two before Harry made a move. Harry curled his finger under my chin and raised my face to his, his lips brushing against mine in a soft caress. I shifted myself so I was facing him so I could kiss him better. My hand rested on his chest as we continued to kiss, enjoying our own private world. A disturbance across the other side of the shop though distracted me and I pulled away. Though my eyes had been closed I could have sworn a flash or something had gone off.

'What is it?' asked Harry.

My eyes scanned the room but I couldn't locate the source of the disturbance. Whatever it was had gone.

'Nothing.'

I woke up on Christmas Day expecting to be surprised by a pile of Christmas presents under the tree, or in a stocking by my bed, or even just by Dad licking my face as Padfoot. The surprise I did get was not one I'd been expecting at all. I was woken up around nine o'clock on Friday morning by a group of loud voices coming from downstairs. I sat up in bed and listened, puzzled by who could be round this early. It sounded like James and Lily were here. Intrigued I got up and left my room. Out in the corridor I confirmed it was James and Lily, and by the sounds of it, Remus and Harry were here too. What was going on? I walked downstairs to find them gathered in the kitchen. They all fell quiet when I entered the kitchen. I stared at them.

'What's going on?' I asked.

'Someone saw us, Jen,' said Harry instantly. He walked over to me and handed me a copy of the morning's issue of the Daily Prophet. 'And I'll give you three guesses who.'

I took the paper to see a picture of me and Harry kissing in Fortescue's from the other day enlarged on the front page, the following headline and article beside it.

EXCLUSIVE: HIS CHOSEN ONE

When I went into Florean Fortescue's Ice Cream Parlour on a busy Wednesday lunchtime for a small something
to eat, never did I think I'd receive more of a treat than just his explosive and aptly named Dynamite ice cream.
The shop was packed with Hogwarts students and their families enjoying some last minute shopping yet, sat in a
back booth, I couldn't help but spy a young wizard and witch who, with no parents in sight, did not fall into this
category.

Some of you may recall my article from four years ago speculating about a certain young wizard's love life
whilst he took part in one of the most dangerous competitions known to wizard, the Triwizard Tournament. After
that, it seemed that love was the last thing on the Chosen One's mind as he spent a year absent from the
wizarding world before doing battle with the Dark Lord. However recent sightings of this young wizard suggest
he hadn't been completely absent of love while on the run. Now I, Rita Skeeter, attractive blonde here for all your
reporting needs, can confirm that Harry Potter, aged eighteen, has finally found his Chosen One.

It was hard not to recognise the messy black hair of the wizarding world's saviour as he took a seat in the
booth, enjoying what I assumed to be a day out with his female companion. But, trusting my keen instincts, I
watched on. In no time at all, the young Mr Potter and said female companion were sharing a long kiss, his arm
wrapped possessively around her waist as her hand rested upon his chest. I sat and waited, wondering if this
mystery girl's identity was to be revealed and I wasn't disappointed. A simple sweep back of her hair by Mr
Potter's hand told me all I needed to know; in amongst her thick dark hair weaved strands of red, only one
known witch possessing that hairstyle.

Like they say, a picture is worth a thousand words and this was a photo opportunity I was not going to pass up.
Harry Potter, no longer the innocent Boy Who Lived, locking lips with long term friend and fellow Hogwarts
student, Jennifer Black. It appeared my previous speculations had been true as this half-breed witch responded
openly to Mr Potter's advances. The only question: how did this happen? Was she truly chosen by Mr Potter or
has he once again succumbed to a witch's charms and potions? Proven herself to be a capable witch, it wouldn't
be out of a Black's nature to lure Mr Potter away or beyond her abilities. Well, I can safely say this is one witch
who will be keeping a close eye on Miss Black's "blossoming" relationship with Mr Potter, waiting to see if this
really is true love or just another wizard cast under a love spell.

I stared at the paper.

'How could she do this?' I asked, unable to believe what she'd written. 'Wasn't she satisfied with what she wrote about Dumbledore after he died that she now has to go and expose us?'

'I don't know, Jen,' said Harry. 'I honestly don't know.'

'Well I think we can safely say the whole wizarding world now knows about your relationship,' said Remus. He took the paper from me and folded it up. 'And with Skeeter's spin on it, I think the both of you should be prepared for a lot of hassle. It was only going to be a matter of time before they came after you.'

'Hmm, and with Harry's fame,' added Sirius, 'you two are going to get a lot of attention. Did you honestly have no idea she was there?'

'I told you, it was so packed we didn't notice her,' said Harry. 'Neither of us did.'

'The flash.' Harry looked at me. 'When we were kissing, something distracted me, a flash or something. It must have been her camera. How did I not realise?'

'Jenna, it's not your fault,' said Harry. He wrapped his arms round me and pulled me in. 'We weren't to know she was there.'

'The question is, what are you two going to do now?' asked James. Harry and I looked at him. 'Like Remus said, everyone's going to know about you two now. It's going to be one hell of a mess to clear up.'

'That's easy,' said Harry straightaway. 'We've got to get to The Burrow.'

With Christmas on hold until Harry and I had sorted this out, I went and got dressed to go with Harry to The Burrow to speak to Ron and the Weasleys as they would have no doubt by now read Skeeter's article. James, Lily and Remus had all returned home when I got back downstairs. Harry was ready and waiting for me. Grabbing my coat, I told Mum and Dad I'd be back later and Harry and I walked out into the garden to Apparate to The Burrow.

'How could we let this happen?' I breathed, the cold air misting my breath. 'I thought she'd learnt her lesson about slandering people in her articles.'

'Don't worry about that,' Harry told me. 'We'll sort it out. The most important thing is to get to Ron.'

I hesitated. Harry saw this. He gripped my hand to try to reassure me. I swallowed then closed my eyes. The two of us span on the spot and Disapparated. I could feel my nerves increase as the darkness pressed against us. All I could think about was how Ron was going to react. Harry must have felt my reluctance as his hand kept a tight hold on mine, pulling me on. A few seconds later the darkness faded and The Burrow stood before us. Again I hesitated. I didn't want to do this, I didn't want to face Ron. He may have seemed all right with the fact Harry had a new girlfriend back in the holidays but now he knew it was me Ron's opinion was bound to have changed.

'Harry, I can't do this,' I said, taking a step back. 'Ron's going to be so mad at me. He'll think I stole you away from Ginny. He probably believes what Skeeter wrote −'

'Jenna, if we don't face this now, imagine what it'll be like back at Hogwarts,' said Harry. 'Anyone who gets The Daily Prophet would have seen that article by now. There's nothing we can do.'

That just made it even worse. My expression changed from worry to absolute horror. Harry saw this. He sighed and pulled me into his embrace, wrapping his arms tightly around me. I closed my eyes, my face resting on his shoulder.

'I know this isn't what you wanted,' Harry whispered. He then let out an irritated noise. 'I should have known this was coming.' I pulled back when Harry said this. What did he mean by that? 'I should have known whatever I did, the whole wizarding world would want to know about it. I can't even go out with my girlfriend without everyone wanting the gossip. I shouldn't have dragged you into this.' I stared at Harry.

'It's not your fault. I knew when I got involved with you, everything was going to change and that the moment people found out about us, my private life would be exposed too. But if it was between being with you and being hounded by the Prophet or being left alone and not having you, I would pick you every time, and everything that comes with you.'

The corner of Harry's mouth lifted a bit into a smile. He placed his forehead against mine as he held me. Harry sighed a second time.

'We better go face them,' he muttered. 'We can't stand out here all day. Plus it's bloody freezing.'

I nodded having also just realised how cold it was. Taking my hand Harry and I walked the short distance towards The Burrow. We went in the back door to find there was no one in the kitchen. Going into the living room we found there was no one in there either. Where were they? We checked the clock: according to it Molly was in Diagon Alley; Arthur, Percy and Bill were all at work; Fred and George were at their home; and Ron and Ginny were here. Well, least the person we had to deal with first was here.

'Hello?' Harry called out. 'Anyone in?'

A noise started above us. Harry and I looked over at the stairs. Soon enough three people appeared in the kitchen; proceeded by a set of fast heavy footsteps, a very irate looking Ron ran down the stairs, closely followed by an anxious Hermione and Ginny. I froze as his eyes fixed on me.

'You!' shouted Ron, causing me to jump. The anger in his eyes was unbelievable; I'd never seen him like this before, not even when he left us when we were on the run. His red hair looked like it was standing on end while his ears were bright pink.

'Ron, stop!' shouted Hermione desperately. She grabbed his arm but he threw her off easily. 'Ron!'

'You!' Ron strode across the kitchen to where Harry and I stood in the sitting room. Hermione and Ginny only just managed to grab him and hold him back before he reached me. 'I can't believe you'd do that!' Ron shouted, pulling against them. 'You conniving little pixette!'

I gasped as Ginny shouted, 'Ron!' Both Harry and Hermione looked confused at Ron's outburst. Ginny and I knew exactly what he meant. A pixette was basically the wizard equivalent of calling a Muggle girl a slut.

'Ron, it's not what it looks like,' I said. Probably not the best thing to say considering there had been a photo of Harry and me in the Prophet and that we were currently standing next to each other. 'We can explain.'

'Oh you better!' snapped Ron. I flinched. 'I knew it! I always knew there had to be something going on between you two! The way you always were around each other, whispering to each other.'

'Ron, just calm down,' said Harry.

'Don't tell me to calm down, Harry!' shouted Ron, turning on him. 'So you left my sister for her, did you? I thought you were my best mate! Best mates don't date your sister, dump them, leaving them hanging on, only to move on to someone else when they're not around!'

'It wasn't like that at all, Ron,' said Harry. 'If you'd let us explain −'

'What's to explain? You told me this had been building for a while. So how long was it going on when you were with my sister?'

'Nothing was going on when I was with Ginny. We had broken up and been apart for a good nine months before anything happened with me and Jenna.'

'So it happened when we were on the run, eh? I'm surprised you could wait that long,' Ron said, directed at me. 'So come on then. Explain. What else happened?'

'Nothing happened, Ron. How many more times do I have to say that? Nothing happened until after the war was over.'

'I would never have come between Harry and Ginny, Ron, I swear,' I told him. 'I would never do that.'

'So why are have you two been seen snogging in Diagon Alley?' said Ron. He lifted up a copy of the Prophet he'd had in his hand. 'If you hadn't come between them when we were on the run, then he and Ginny would still be together, you little pixette!

'Ronald Weasley!' shouted Ginny in a very Molly-ish way. Ron actually span round looking for his Mum before he realised it was her. 'Will you put a charm on it and shut up so you can hear their side?' she snapped at him. Ron glared at her. 'All you've done for the last hour is jumped to conclusions since Hermione showed you that article. It was written by Rita Skeeter! Of course it's going to be telling lies about them! It's what she does! Now are you going to listen to them or am I going to have to put a Silencing Charm on you?'

The two Weasleys glared at each other. At that moment I was whole heartedly glad I was not a Weasley. I could never muster that temper.

'Fine,' he snapped, 'but if I find out those two were messing around when Harry was with you, I'm hexing him.'

'Then I'm afraid you're going to be disappointed,' said Harry. Ron looked at him, his eyes also glaring at me where I stood behind him. 'Like I told you in September, Jenna and I had been having feelings for each other long before Ginny and I got together. But Jenna was with someone else so I put them aside. I was completely honest with Ginny the entire time I was with her and when I broke up with her it was to protect her, not because I'd found someone else.'

'He didn't want Voldemort using me to get to him,' said Ginny. 'That's why he broke up with me. I may not have wanted it but Harry was right to do it.' Ginny looked at me. 'He was just wrong about who it was he needed to protect.'

'For months Jenna and I had been distant, Ron,' continued Harry. 'We'd slowly pushed each other away over sixth year so by the time we were on the run, at times we were close, other times we were like complete strangers. The only time something happened was after Lupin appeared at Shell Cottage and even then it was a brief encounter.'

'But it didn't stop your feelings resurfacing, did it?' accused Ron.

'No, it didn't,' admitted Harry. 'They did resurface after that and so when Jenna left, because I found out she had feelings for me which she wasn't going to do anything about might I add, I was both angry at her and terrified something had happened.'

'Then what?' asked Ron.

'I found out Ginny was with Neville.' Ron's eyebrows arched up. He looked at Ginny then back at Harry.

'What? When did this happen?'

'Remember when Dean and Luna snuck to school on Jenna's request?' Ron nodded. 'When I found out Jenna was at Hogwarts, my anger at her came back as I couldn't understand why she left, and Luna mentioned those love bugs of hers, saying Jenna had been bitten as had Ginny and Neville. I didn't need anything more to tell me Ginny had moved on.'

'You had moved on?' said Ron. His tone wasn't as angry now but I could still hear the accusation in his voice.

'Neville and I had been seeing each other for at least two months by then,' said Ginny. 'We only put it on hold because I was removed from Hogwarts to stop the Death Eaters taking me like they did Luna.'

'So you knew about them,' said Ron. Harry nodded. 'And you were with Neville.'

'Yes.'

'Then what?'

'We went back to Hogwarts where Harry fought Voldemort,' said Hermione.

'Besides that.'

'But that's important,' said Harry. 'If you recall, Jenna almost died saving us in that corridor, saving Fred from getting worse injuries than he did get. Then Voldemort took her when we were in the Shrieking Shack, because he knew how much she meant to me before even I did. He'd seen into both our minds and knew if he took Jenna, he'd have an advantage over me which I hadn't seen until the moment he took her.'

I expected Ron to argue that point, that surely Ginny would have been more important than me because she'd been his girlfriend, but he didn't, instead asking, 'So you'd realised what Jenna meant to you. But you said she wasn't going to act on her feelings so my question is, how did this happen?'

'Because I confronted her,' said Harry. 'After the fight Jenna and I were up on the Astronomy Tower and I confronted her about her feelings otherwise she wouldn't done anything about them. And nothing would have happened if I hadn't spoken to Ginny. Jenna wasn't going to do anything if I was still involved with her. I had to convince her that Ginny and I had ended before Jenna would even think about going out with me and I'm lucky she agreed.' Harry turned to face me. 'I'm bloody lucky.'

Silence followed. The Harry, Hermione, Ginny and I just stood there waiting for Ron's reaction. All eyes were on him.

'So it just … happened?'

'Ron, it didn't −'

'Yes.' Harry stopped and looked at me, confused. So did Ron, Hermione and Ginny. 'Yes,' I repeated. 'It just happened.'

'Jenna, what are you talking about?' asked Harry.

'Ron's right,' I said. 'We did just … happen. You never actually asked me out or anything like that.' Harry just stared at me, unable to believe what I was saying. 'We just discover we have feelings for each other and all of a sudden we were together. How else can we describe it? We just … happened.'

I looked away then headed for the door.

'Jenna.' Harry made to stop me but I was already out of the door. 'Jenna, wait!'

I trudged my way through the snow away from the house when someone grabbed my arm.

'We didn't just happen,' said Harry. I gasped in surprise as he took my face in his hands. 'We didn't just happen and I won't stand by and let you think that. We happened for a reason, Jenna. We happened because we wanted to be with each other. I wanted to be with you and I don't care what Skeeter or Ron or everyone else thinks. I want to be with you.'

'But Ron −'

'No buts,' said Harry. 'I want to be with you and I still do so if asking you is all it takes then I will. Jenna, go out with me. Please, go out with me.'

I just stood there. When did Harry become so good at rendering me speechless? Unable to say it, I just nodded. Harry breathed a sigh of relief. He pulled me in, holding me close to his body.

'When did it get so hard?' he breathed. 'But I'm not giving up without a fight.'

I glanced at Harry out the corner of my eye. I then nestled into his embrace feeling the familiar sense of safety.

'Neither am I.'

When Harry and I returned Ron was a lot calmer now he had our side of the story and he apologised to us. Just after all that had blown over Molly returned from Diagon Alley, her arms full of food. She and Arthur too had heard about mine and Harry's relationship in the Prophet but she was much less judgemental than Ron, only saying we should have told them as she put the potatoes on to boil. As we were already there, Molly suggested we had Christmas lunch instead of dinner as originally planned so Harry sent a message home to our parents telling them everything had been sorted out and to come over. With that done, Harry came over to me.

'So is everything good?' he asked.

'Yeah, everything's good,' I replied.

Just then a whistle came from behind. Looking round we saw Hermione and Ginny watching us. Hermione pointed to something above us. Looking up we saw the small sprig of green attached to the wooden beam above us.

'And it's just about to get better,' murmured Harry before pressing his lips passionately against mine.

Putting aside the whole affair with Rita Skeeter's article Christmas wasn't as much as a disaster as I thought it was going to be when the article came out. After lunch with the Weasleys on Christmas day, Mum, Dad and I Apparated over to Andromeda's house to spend time with her, Remus, Dora and Teddy. Seeing Teddy again brought an instant smile to my face and I greatly enjoyed making his first Christmas one he'd remember. The evening was spent listening to the wireless while chatting about various things or clearing up the mess created from the presents. Remus also pulled me aside to check whether I'd managed to get the dresses. I told him they were sitting in my wardrobe ready for when they were needed. Everything was ready for Teddy's christening in a couple of days, now it was just a matter of getting the wedding done as well. Remus was just lucky, and very thankful, that Molly and Arthur were helping with the whole affair.

The next couple of days passed very quickly and before I knew it, I was suffering a case of déjà vu as I was at Moonlake Cottage rushing around to get everything ready for Teddy's christening like we had at The Burrow the previous year. It wasn't half as hectic as Bill and Fleur's wedding had been, considering half of the stuff from their wedding was being used for this, but Molly was still bossing us about like nobody's business. We had to clear away some of the snow that had fallen during the night in order to set up the small marquee before Molly set me, Hermione and Ginny helping her in the kitchen while the boys including Fred and George finished outside with Arthur.

At half one Remus appeared to check everything was ready for two o'clock and get Dora's wedding dress from me. He was so happy when he saw it. That was when his nerves finally set in. I gave him some reassuring words that he'd done this all before and Dora wasn't likely to say no so he had nothing to worry about. Remus knew I was right then asked if he could see me in my dress. I didn't see why not as I had to get ready anyway and said I'd call him when I was changed. Everyone had Apparated to their homes to get ready but I'd decided to stay at Moonlake and change in my old room. Make-up done and zipped into my dress, I went downstairs to see Mum and Dad had just arrived with Dora in the living room, Remus holding Teddy as he made a fuss about being in the white christening gown.

'He reminds me of what I used to be like with dresses,' I commented as I walked into the room. 'Still, they're not so bad now.'

'Apparently not,' said Dora. She eyed my dress avidly. 'Wow, Jen, I know it's a special occasion but not that special. You look amazing.'

Remus and I shared a look.

'I thought I'd make an effort,' I said. 'Besides, like you said it's a special occasion in more ways than one.'

Dora gave me a curious look but didn't have time to question me as the Weasleys, Harry and his parents, and Andromeda arrived. The smile Harry gave me when he saw me in the dress again told me what he thought of it. Needless to say I blushed. Still while he got to appreciate me in the dress, I got to admire him once again in his dress robes. All it did was make butterflies start up in my stomach at how smart and handsome Harry looked.

The christening went without a hitch. Well, I say that, Teddy did kick up a bit of a fuss when the vicar poured the water over his head but what baby didn't? He was now officially Ted Remus Lupin though he'd always be known as Teddy by everyone. I watched with a great sense of pride, even more so when Harry was made his godfather. I had a feeling that he'd be the same sort of godfather Dad had been to him, responsible but with a reckless side. I was pretty sure Teddy wouldn't want it any other way. Service over, Dora, with Teddy in hand, started to make her way inside when Remus called her back.

'We haven't quite finished yet, Dora,' he said, walking up to her. He took Teddy from her and handed him to Andromeda. Turning back to Dora, Remus got down on one knee. A shocked breath went round all of those gathered. I guess James, Dad and I were the only ones to know he'd been planning this. Dora stared at him. 'Last year you married me but I couldn't give you the wedding you deserved, a wedding in front of your friends and family. Now I can. So Nymphadora,' Dora glared at him when he used her full name but Remus just ignored it (I fought to keep a straight face at that), 'will you do me the greatest honour of marrying me … properly.'

Dora looked round at everyone watching them. Her eyes met mine and she realised what I had meant earlier. I just shrugged, trying to be innocent. She turned back to Remus.

'Yes, I will marry you,' she said. 'And don't call me "Nymphadora", Remus!'

A cheer and a laugh followed that. With a quick flick of his wand Remus conjured Dora's wedding dress to replace the one she'd worn for the christening while Dad flicked his to rearrange the marquee, creating an aisle between the chairs and vanishing the font the vicar had used. Music began playing into the garden making the wintry wonderland feel even more magical. I approached Remus and Dora and handed her the bouquet of flowers that she needed.

'I'll be having words with you three later,' said Dora to me, Dad and Remus. We all shared a look. 'Don't try and act all innocent. I'm a Black too you know.'

The wedding was amazing. Dora looked beautiful in her wedding dress and the two of them looked so happy together as they said their vows. It was such a contrast to what I'd seen the first time they got married. When the service was over the chairs were cleared away so Remus and Dora could have their "first" dance together. Remus held her close and they span slowly on the spot, a soft smile on his face. I'd never seen him look this happy before. I felt my hand get taken and I saw Harry standing next to me. I got his message and he led me on to the dance floor where we joined the various couples in a slow dance.

'It was a beautiful wedding, wasn't it? I've never seen Remus so happy before.'

I was lying beside Harry on my bed at home. The celebrations had ended a few hours ago and we'd all returned home, Harry telling James and Lily he was going to spend a bit of time with me before he went back to Godric's Hollow. He was still in his dress robes minus the outer robe while I was still in my bridesmaid dress. I moved closer to him, resting my head on his chest as he wrapped his arm around me.

'I can think of one thing that was more so,' said Harry. I looked up at him. 'You.'

I smiled. I sat up and moved myself so I leant over Harry. My hair fell to one side as I looked down on him. Harry smiled back up at me, a warm look in his eyes. I felt my heart start to race as we lay there. For some reason everything that had happened to us over the last few days began to replay itself through my mind. A strange sensation started in me. It seemed to surge in my chest, a burning desire. My eyes were still locked with Harry's. Closing them I leant down and brushed my lips lightly against his. Harry instinctively tangled his hand into my hair to bring me closer. His tongue left a hot trail over my lower lip as he asked for entrance and I had no choice but to give in.

Our kisses deepened. The heat between our bodies increased and in no time our positions were switched so we lay beside each other, Harry leaning slightly over me with one arm wrapped round my waist. I moved my hand until I found the bottom of Harry's shirt and pulled it free from his trousers, then proceeding to unbutton it. My fingers traced the contours of Harry's chest, feeling his muscles twitch from my touch. It was Harry's turn next. His hand stroked my cheek before travelling lower. Harry's hand felt rough as it grazed my shoulder but I didn't care. His hand went lower, tracing my side before stopping at my hip. However the moment I felt the material of my dress get pulled up, I froze.

'Harry,' I gasped, breaking the kiss. I grabbed his hand to stop him.

'Ssh,' Harry cooed. His hand pushed against mine and moved a little further, revealing more of my leg. I swallowed, my nerves increasing with every second. Harry must've seen the fear in my eyes. 'Don't be scared,' he whispered. 'I won't go too far, I promise …'

I stared into Harry's eyes. Then slowly I nodded and released his hand. Harry gazed reassuringly at me then resumed the kiss. I did my best to respond but I couldn't help but worry what his hand was going to do. It pushed my dress up further and further until he had complete access to my leg. I tensed again.

'Ssh,' Harry whispered against my lips. 'Relax …'

I did my best to do so. I fought to keep my mind clear but I was so aware of what Harry's hand was doing. A part of me was screaming "stop him!" while another part, a stronger part, was saying "let him". Harry's hand caressed my thigh. It felt like his touch was burning my skin. But I liked it. I liked it, the feeling of his skin against mine and the fire it seemed to create. I could feel myself getting excited by what was going to happen, a coil starting to tighten in my stomach. I … I wanted this to happen …

My mind just seemed to blank after that though I was still aware of what was happening and I didn't fight it. I merely moved closer to Harry so my body was pressed against his, my hand gripping his arm. His hand finally moved away from my thigh and cupped my crotch. Suddenly my hips gave an involuntary shudder and pressed into his hand. I moved my leg so it entwined with his, giving Harry better access to what I assumed was his goal: my knickers. Very slowly Harry pushed down the material, exposing me to his attentions. Harry felt me tense again when I felt his touch down there so he deepened the kiss, his tongue entering my mouth. I moaned and in that moment of distraction, Harry's hand had pushed down my knickers just enough so he could get to my most sacred place.

I gasped, breaking the kiss, as Harry began to stroke me there, his finger causing all sorts of sensations to go through my body. His arm tightened round my waist and he whispered comfortingly to me that it was going to be OK. His movements were slow at first in small circles as I got used to it. My breathing had deepened considerably and I fought to keep it even. I gasped again though when a second jolt went through me, the coil in my stomach tightening. Gradually Harry's pace increased, his movements becoming more rapid. My entire body shuddered in response. That was when he did it. With one sharp thrust I felt Harry's finger enter me and I cried out.

'Oh God!' I panted as Harry continued to thrust into me with his finger; I didn't know whether it was from my nerves but I was so tight that Harry's movements were bordering on the line between pleasure and pain until I thought I would burst. Was it meant to feel like this? Never had it felt like this when I'd pleasured myself before. 'Harry, I −!'

'Don't fight it,' he whispered. He moved his arm so that his hand held my head, guiding it to rest in the crook of his neck. Good job too as he soon thrust a second finger in and I let out another cry as this confused feeling increased. My hands gripped his arms, my nails digging in. 'You're almost there …'

The coil in my stomach was unbearable now, it was so tight. I fought to hold on as Harry thrust into me for the last few times. My body was so sensitive now I reacted to each and every one until − Harry pushed me over the peak and for the first time I felt the full extent of this feeling. I shuddered in his arms as I came and I was left panting in his embrace from the shock it had had on my body. Harry removed his hand and instantly pulled me closer.

'It's OK,' he whispered. 'It's over now, it's OK …'

I just lay there nestled in Harry's arms. Whether it was the after effects or not, I wasn't sure, but I was still shaking. My breathing was uneven and a thin trail of sweat had dampened the back of my hair. Like I said, never had I felt that before when I had done that to myself but I'd never gone that far before. And it scared me. As much as I'd wanted and enjoyed it when Harry had started his attentions and how much I knew he didn't mean to cause me any pain, the feeling of Harry thrusting into me even though it was just his finger hurt … Was this what it was going to be like if we have sex? And all of a sudden the whole prospect of sleeping with him was an even scarier thought as I didn't want to feel that pain again.

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AN: well there you go, i've finally updated. i did my best to keep it tasteful as i don't like smutty things either but there is only so much i can do without it a) getting repetitive and b) losing the way I describe Harry and Jenna feelings. i hope it doesn't put you off my story as it's not going to be sex mad from here but it's now into the M rated stuff so there will be more of it to come in future chapters, especially the next as Jenna has some Important Choices to make (next chapter title there). thanks for reading and do leave a review as they help me alter my style. BlAcKdAuGhTeR.