Harry's Future

by swissdog

A possible continuation of the last book of the Harry Potter series suggested by event in the last chapter and the epilogue

15. Chapter 15

Harry's Future, Part 15

Harry was happy to feel the train come to a stop. He was home. His trip to Beauxbaton had been successful on several levels and he was very satisfied with the results. He had high hopes that a good relationship had been established with the Academy and that that relationship would grow to include Hogwarts and the Law Enforcement departments of both the British and French Ministries of Magic. Perhaps most importantly he and Fleur had come to an understanding of sorts in terms of their relationship and the impact each had on the other's life. Harry had been thinking about that a lot as he traveled back to London. His gradual integration into the Weasley family had given him an education in the theoretical aspects of family life but the practical reality was still something he was struggling with. He didn't have any trouble with the idea of giving to others. He was still having some difficulty dealing with the part where others gave to him. The effects of growing up with the Dursleys made this a somewhat foreign concept even now.

Harry struggled with his bag as he had to rely heavily on the cane as a result of twisting his bad knee the day before. He knew a car would be waiting for him outside but it was still a ways to go. He was in for a pleasant surprise as he stepped out onto the platform.

"Harry! Harry!" a familiar and welcome voice called out.

Harry looked around and caught sight of a wealth of red hair and he broke into a big smile. He took a few steps forward and put his bag down as Ginny bore down on him. Fortunately the crowd emerging from the train slowed her down so she was only at a walking pace when they made contact. She wrapped him in a tight hug that he returned with one arm. She could feel him leaning on the cane. She looked up at him.

"Harry, is the leg bothering you?"

"I'm afraid so, sweetheart. I managed to tweak it a bit yesterday. It should be alright in a day or two," he said with a lopsided smile.

"The car from the Ministry is right outside. I'll take your bag and you lean on me," she said as she took the bag in one hand and wrapped her other arm around Harry's waist.

He could have made the walk unaided but after a week apart he wasn't about to suggest she let go of him so they made their way cautiously toward the exit. As they walked Ginny told him about getting the message form Abagail.

"It was wonderful to hear how you were doing, Harry. But it was kind of spooky at the same time. Have you made any progress at all in finding out how this is possible?" she asked.

"Not that I'm aware of yet. I'm hoping that Milligan will have something for me when I go in tomorrow. Dr. Medford is going to do an examination when Abagail gets out of school and that might help explain some things. I have a lot more to tell you about what went on. It turned out to be a very productive visit."

By this time they had reached the Ministry sedan and the driver, in his nondescript black suit, opened the rear door for them.

"Welcome back, sir," he offered.

"Thanks, it's great to be home," Harry replied.

They sat in the back seat with Ginny pressed up against Harry, holding on to his right hand with both of hers.

"Guess what, Harry. I got my first article published in the Prophet this week. They're calling it 'Inside the Game' and I'll write one a week and we'll see what kind of response comes in. I'm really excited about it," she bubbled.

"I don't know, Ginny," Harry said with mock seriousness. "I'm not sure I'm going to be able to handle being married to a celebrity."

She leaned away from him a little to look at his face and then gave him a poke in the ribs. Then she reached up and gave him a quick kiss. She snuggled back against his side and they soon reached the Black house. Ginny insisted that she carry the bag and as they approached the door, it swung open and Kreacher bowed them inside.

"Welcome home, Master Harry."

"Thanks, Kreacher. It's great to be back."

Harry and Ginny sat at the table in the kitchen while Kreacher finished fixing dinner.

"So tell me all about it, Harry. What was Beauxbaton like?"

Harry proceeded to describe the palace, the students and teachers as best he could. Ginny thought the idea of the perpetual ice sculptures and the gardens was wonderful. He then talked about the sessions with the students and the lectures.

"I'm sure they were very impressed with all you had to tell them, sweetheart," she said.

"I don't know about impressed but they were certainly interested. I spent a lot of time answering questions," he said and then laughed. "It was amazing how some of the stories got jumbled up. Except for that one professor the whole week was really great."

"What professor, Harry? What happened?" Ginny asked.

Harry told her about his encounter with the Charms Professor to include the apology in front of Madame Maxime and her comments.

"Oh, Harry. I wish I could have seen the look on his face when you levitated him. But I think you handled that very well. You taught him a good lesson in a very subtle way. I bet he wouldn't have come near you if he had seen what you did to that mannequin that day in Charms class."

Then he told her about his introduction to the Harry Potter Fan club and how that had worked out. She had started out giggling when he began the tale with the discovery of the pins and how the club had grown. By the time he was done she was looking at him from across the table with a funny little half smile.

"You know, my love, I've watched you very carefully over the years as we grew up and considering what a shaky start you had when it came to girls," she said with a little laugh, "you've certainly learned how to treat women. And I don't mean it like you were a girl chaser or something like that, because I'd feed you to the grindylows if I thought that. You just seem to know what's important and what to do to make us feel happy and cared for," she said reaching across to take his hand and give it a squeeze.

Harry shrugged and gave her one of his lopsided grins and said,

"Maybe, then again maybe not. Fleur and I had a bit of a dust up yesterday afternoon. It turned out alright in the end but it got pretty serious for a while."

"What happened, Harry? Is it something you can tell me?" she asked anxiously.

"Of course, no secrets between us, remember?" he said and then began to recount the discussion Harry and Fleur had the day before in the garden.

Ginny's eyes grew troubled and misty as she heard Harry talk about what he revealed to Fleur in response to her question about why he always seemed to talk himself down. She nodded when she heard what Fleur had to say in response, particularly the last part about it being her job to protect him. Harry finished by describing how Fleur had helped support him as they walked back into the Palace for the farewell dinner. When he concluded he sat with his hands folded on the table looking across at her face that was now looking both serious and determined.

Without speaking she stood up and walked around the table to stand at his side where she took his head in her arms and cradled him to her. Harry wrapped his arm around her waist and held her tight, not sure what she was trying to convey. After a moment or two she released her hold and took his face into her hands and turned his head to look up at her.

"She's right, you know, although I'd never call you stupid. You would never, ever take that first step. It's just not part of who you are. It's like I was just saying before about how you treat people. Despite the way you were raised and how you were treated for so long after you got to Hogwarts you still give and give and give. Listen to me, my dear man. You would never go that way. And even if that impossibility were to happen, those who love you would do whatever it took to bring you back to your senses, even if it meant holding you down and beating you with a stick," the last said with a loving smile.

Hearing that Harry began to laugh and then he pulled her head down and gave her a long lingering kiss that spoke volumes. When they separated Ginny continued to look down at her hero.

"Fleur was right about something else, Harry. You have the potential to do great things. You can't let this sort of thing get in the way of that. What a tragedy that would be."

With a last kiss she went back to her seat and they finished their dinner with Ginny peppering Harry with questions about the Quidditch match he officiated. He included his discussion with the young seeker.

"See, Harry. I told you that day with Abagail that you'd be a great flying teacher. Of course it might come back to haunt you one day."

"What do you mean, Ginny?"

"Well, imagine if she does become the seeker for the French National Team and they play the UK and win. She gets interviewed and it comes out that you were the one who taught her how to be a better seeker. Think how bloody popular you'd be then," she said with a laugh.

************

Monday morning found Harry at his desk in his office looking at three messages. One was from the Director requesting Harry to come see him as soon as he got in. One was from Milligan requesting time to see Harry and the last was from Maxwell also requesting time. Harry knew that he wanted to talk to Milligan first but he would have to wait until last, protocol being what it was. So he grabbed his cane and made his way up to the Director's office.

"He told me to send you right in, Mr. Potter," the secretary said.

Harry nodded then knocked on the door and stepped in.

"Ah, Harry. Come in and sit down. I see the leg is still a problem," the Director said.

"It comes and goes, sir. It was doing pretty well and then I twisted it a bit on Saturday. I go for therapy tomorrow so that should help get things back on track."

"Good. Now, I'd like to hear about your trip to France. Anything we should be concerned with?"

"Yes sir. A great deal in fact," Harry said.

He then began to lay out the conversation he had with the French Minister and Madame Maxime about cross channel cooperation and trading interns and agents. The Director's head was nodding as Harry talked.

"Excellent," he said when Harry finished. "I couldn't be more pleased, Harry. The international scope of the smuggling operation alone warrants this kind of arrangement but I'm particularly happy with the idea of the exchange agreements. I'll take a walk over to see Percy Weasley when we are done and start the ball rolling. How did your DADA sessions go?"

"They seemed to go well, sir. I got a lot of questions and that's usually a good indicator of interest. The last session was similar to what you saw that afternoon and Professor LeMond used it as the practical portion of their exams. That's when I made the comment about having any of them come to work for me. There were some very sharp wizards and witches there."

The Director laughed and said,

"Well, don't be surprised if you get some applications in French this summer, Harry. Great work. I know you've got a lot to catch up on so I'll let you get to it, but we'll be talking more about this soon."

"Yes, sir," Harry replied and then he got up and walked out of the room.

His next stop was Maxwell's office. He knocked on the doorframe and stuck his head in.

"Anyone home?"

"Oh, there you are, sir," Maxwell said. "I would have come see you if you had sent a message."

"I was just on my way back from the boss' office so this is just as easy," Harry said as he eased himself into the other chair in the tiny room. "So what's been going on?"

"The Patrollers are on schedule with training. We had a couple of minor incidents that we took care of. A couple of kids trying to shoplift in Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes in Diagon Alley. They practically ran right into the Patrollers on duty. Bit of a problem in Hogsmeade. A couple of roughnecks out of the wilds in town and we had to Stupefy them. So it looks like we're earning our pay so far," he said and Harry simply nodded. "We've continued with the interrogations and background checks on that lot from Belarus. They're a tough bunch of nuts to crack but we are making some progress. Mysteries has taken over on that dragon business so we aren't likely to hear too much about that anymore."

"I wouldn't count on that if I were you," Harry said with a little grin.

Maxwell just smiled and said,

"That new assistant of yours has been a big help. Since you were gone I put him to work on a few small tasks I've been meaning to get to. He should be in to see you sometime this afternoon."

"Maybe you need an assistant yourself," Harry said.

"I don't think so, sir. If I can borrow Medford now and again I'm good."

"Ok, anything else?"

"No, sir, that's pretty much it for now."

"Great, thanks for taking care of things while I was gone. Would you find Milligan and have him come see me?" Harry said as he stood up.

"Yes, sir," Maxwell said and Harry turned and left the little office.

Harry was in his office no more then ten minutes when the lanky head of the Magical Investigation Unit arrived. Harry waved him in after the knock.

"So, did you come up with anything?"

"Oh, you could say that, chief. Take a look at this," Milligan said as he unrolled a long piece of parchment onto Harry's desk.

"I've spent a fair amount of time these last few weeks going through church and county records, even a few cemeteries. It looks like the magical ability is all down through the young lady's maternal side. Take a look at this name," he said as he pointed to a spot on the complex diagram which read Cassandra Trelawney.

Harry let out a whistle and said,

"That would explain some of it."

"Yup, but there's more. It seems that Cassandra had a least one daughter that was a squib. She then married another squib. It's from those two that Miss Westwood descends. But if you look back up the male squib's line you see at least three other names that were reputed to be lesser or greater mentalists of one form or another. It looks like the combination of talents seemed to combine and then go into hiding or something then emerged in the girl. Now, keep going and see what name you come across."

Harry followed the lines upward until he came to a name he knew very well. He looked up at Milligan.

"Yes, sir. You are descended from Ignotus Peverell and she's descended from the brother, Antioch. That could be and is most likely the connection you were looking for."

"How did you know I was descended from Ignotus," Harry asked.

"We did a pretty thorough background check on you, sir, when we heard you were going to apply," Milligan said matter-of-factly.

Harry sat back in his chair. So the connection between he and Abagail was blood. It was a distant one but there none the less.

"Is this the only copy?" Harry asked.

"Yes, sir."

"I'll hold on to it if you don't mind. This isn't the sort of thing I'd want to be to well known," Harry said quietly.

"I thought so. I did my best to make sure none of my contacts knew too much about what I was digging into," Milligan.

"Thanks and good work. I appreciate it, more then I can say."

Milligan just nodded and left the office. Harry leaned back in his chair and stared at the ceiling. The information formed a foundation for what was going on as far as Abagail was concerned but it certainly didn't fill in many of the details. Most probably would never be known.

Harry was kept fairly busy dealing with the exchange proposals that he had discussed with the Director. Regular meetings with the International office were held. Percy told Harry one afternoon after a meeting had broken up that some of the old timers in the International Office were mightily offended that a 'young whelp and rank amateur' had created the opportunity for such a bold initiative but since their acting director wasn't likely to welcome any attempt to push him aside they had to resign themselves to the situation. Harry could only laugh and wish Percy well in dealing with the old guard.

He took a trip up to Hogwarts and had a chat with Professor McGonagall about the idea of exchange students and the idea of interns for the Ministries.

"I must say, Harry. For only having been there a week, you certainly have created some excitement. I received a message from Madame Maxime the Monday after you returned and she was very complimentary about your conduct there. I think she hopes to make your visit an annual event. She also mentioned that you were very gracious about a particularly embarrassing episode but didn't offer any details. Could you tell us what happened?"

Since they were meeting in the Head's office the 'us' included the former Heads' portraits, nearly all of whom were wide awake. Harry blushed a bit and then began to tell what had occurred with Professor Fromage. Harry could see that Professor McGonagall was doing her best to maintain a straight face but as Harry neared the end of the tale she did smile a bit when one of the portraits muttered,

"Deserved it all and more, bloody Gallic magician."

Professor Dumbledore coughed and made to look up over his head and said,

"My dear sir, we all know how you feel about losing to Beauxbaton in the TriWizards Tournament but that was well over three centuries ago and all in all the young man was treated quite admirably."

This was greeted by a loud 'Harumph' but no more Francophobish comments were forthcoming. Dumbledore looked down at Harry and said,

"I must say, well done, Harry, my boy. The whole reason behind restarting the Triwizard Tournament was to foster greater cooperation but you have gone well beyond my greatest hopes."

"Thank you, sir. It was a great experience and I wouldn't mind going back."

"Just you remember, Mr. Potter. Your Alma Mater has first call on your talents," Professor McGonagall said with a severe look.

"Yes, ma'am. I understand," he said holding back a smile.

They discussed the ideas for a while more. Then Professor McGonagall said,

"Harry, it's getting close to lunch. I'd like you to stay and then afterwards you can have your talk with Ms. Westwood. Will you be able to share what you discovered with us afterwards?"

"Yes, ma'am. I'd be glad to but I thought Abagail should find out first and in private," Harry said.

"We understand completely, Harry. Let's head down to the Hall before the crush starts."

Harry was moving better after repeated therapy and exercise sessions and the cane was becoming less necessary. He continued to take stairs carefully because he was worried about a twist or misstep setting him back. As they walked into the Hall a few students were there and they waved to Harry and as he passed he shook hands or grasped a shoulder and smiled or offered a word or two of greeting. When he took a seat at the head table he looked around the Hall and smiled. It was always good to come home.

The noise level in the corridor rose noticeably as the students arrived and began to fill the tables. He saw a familiar head of dark hair bobbing along with a group of other students and he continued to watch until eye contact was made. Abagail broke into a huge grin and rushed up to the dais and then up to the table.

"Hello, sir. It's great to see you again, in person I mean," she said in her airy voice.

"It's great to see you, too, little one. I have to say you look much better than the last time I was here. I see you've been eating well."

"Yes, sir. I've regained all the weight I lost and added a pound or two," she giggled.

"Well, I've some things to tell you so would you meet me back here after you've finished your lunch?" Harry asked.

"Yes, sir," she said and then dashed back to her seat.

Harry could only smile. Dealing with her condition that day had been one of the hardest times of his life and for him that was saying something. Seeing her happy and healthy again made it worth the effort, however. The meal passed as they usually did, with a steady buzz of conversation from the students with the occasional laugh ringing out. Harry had enjoyed his time at Beauxbaton but he had to admit that he much preferred this aspect of life at Hogwarts.

It didn't take long before Abagail was finished and making her way back to the head table. Harry stood up and met her at the steps and motioned for her to join him. Together they went into the anteroom behind the head table and sat down at a small table that might have served for a game of cards. Harry reached into his robe and pulled out the large parchment that Milligan had prepared. Harry had folded it several times so it would fit. He spread it out on the table so they both could see.

"Abagail, in an attempt to find out something about your talents I had one of my investigators look into your background. Remember all the questions that you were asked during that first meeting with Professor McGonagall and the portraits of the former Heads?"

She nodded, her eyes big and bright and fixed on Harry.

"Well, I thought we could find out more and we did. Take a look. This is you," Harry said as he pointed to a name at the bottom of the sheet.

He let his finger trace upward as he spoke.

"Here's your mom. Your magical ability seems to come down through her side of the family, we believe. Here's the first name that got our attention. Cassandra Trelawney. She is very famous for being a gifted seer, someone who can make predictions of the future."

"Does that mean I'm related to Professor Trelawney, I've heard about her," Abagail said.

"Yes, you'd be some kind of cousins. Unfortunately, the professor didn't inherent much of a gift from her ancestor. She's only made two valid predictions that I know of. Now things get a bit more interesting. If you look at the name of the man that married Cassandra's daughter and then trace backwards several people in his line are also known to have possessed mental powers of one form or another. It would seem that maybe that combination has brought us to you," Harry said with a smile.

Abagail was fascinated by what she was seeing and hearing. The idea that she was connected to all these people was incredibly interesting. Harry began to speak again.

"Now we come to the next part of this question, Abagail. Why you and I seem to have some form of connection. As we track back through all of these people we come to these three brothers. You are descended from this one. I am descended from that one."

Harry heard a little gasp and he looked over and saw those big dark eyes looking back at him.

"So you and I are related? For real?" she said breathlessly.

"Yes, we are. It's distant but it's there," he said with a big smile.

"Oh, sir," was all she could get out past the rapidly rising tears.

"There is something you should know though, Abagail."

"Yes, sir, what is that?" she asked.

"Do you see the third brother there, named Cadmus?"

"Yes, sir."

"Tom Riddle descended from him," Harry said quietly.

"You and I are both related to Voldemort?" she said, her eyes going very wide.

"Yes, we are. It's not something I like to talk about but I thought you should know. I don't think you have to worry about it though. I don't see you going over to the dark arts," Harry said with a gentle smile.

"No, sir, I wouldn't ever do that," she said very seriously.

"I'm sure you wouldn't. There's something else I wanted to talk to you about. You know it's my intention to have you come to the Black house in London for the summer, right?" Harry asked.

"Yes, sir."

"Well, I had a talk with Mr. and Mrs. Weasley a little while ago and we found a problem with that plan. No, no. Don't worry, you're still coming home with Ginny and I. But since during the day we'll both be working you'd be there alone so it was suggested that you spend the day with the Weasleys, Mrs. Wesley mostly, and then come back to London when one or the other of us get there. What do you think?"

"Well," she began a bit apprehensively, "what is Mrs. Weasley like?"

"Well, I think she's just about the best mum anyone could ever hope for. Whenever I've felt bad she's been there to make me feel better. She's the best cook I know. I think you'd have a lot of fun being around her and the Burrow has lots of room and there's also a lot of space for you to fly your broom which you wouldn't have in London."

"It sounds ok, I guess…"she trailed off.

"What's the matter, Abagail? Talk to me," Harry said.

"It's been hard, sir. After my mum and dad died I had to go live with my grandparents and get used to that. Then I came here and had to get used to that. Then I was going to go with you to your house in London and that was going to be something new but I thought with you and Ginny it would be kind of fun. Now you want me to get used to two places at the same time. It's kind of a lot," she said looking at him anxiously.

Harry looked back at her and took a hold of her hand.

"I'm sorry, Abagail, I didn't realize this was so difficult for you. Let me think a moment here," Harry said as he sat looking at her.

Then an idea occurred to him.

"What about this, Abagail? If I can arrange it would you like to come to the Burrow this weekend and get to know the Weasleys? Would that help you feel more comfortable?"

"How can we do that in so short a time, sir? I'm not qualified to Disapparate."

"Have you ever heard of floo powder? That's how you can travel quickly from one place to another without having to Disapparate," Harry said.

"Well, if you think that would work, I guess it would be ok."

"That's great. Believe me you'll love it once you get there. The Burrow is one of my most favorite places in the whole world."

"Ok, sir, I'll try it and see how it works out."

"That's all I ask. So, tell me how school is going. You and I haven't had a chance to talk about that for a while," Harry said.

"My work is going good. I lost a little bit of ground when I was sick but I'm all caught up and I've been doing some extra work and I'm sure I'll do ok with my exams. There is something though."

"What's that?" Harry asked.

"My magic isn't very strong," she said quietly.

"What kind of magic are we talking about, Abagail. You certainly can do some pretty amazing things," Harry said, trying to encourage her.

"Oh, I know all about that, sir. And I know I'm really good with things like potions and herbology because that's a lot of memorizing and thinking. I mean with a wand. I know all the charms but I don't have much power when I do things. If I try my hardest with Expelliarmus it just knocks the wand away from the other person. I can't levitate anything bigger then a book," she said looking down at her hands that were clasped in her lap.

"That's not all that unusual, little one. Some people are good at some things and not so good at others. Some witches and wizards can't do much with a wand at all, but can do amazing things with potions or magical creatures. With all the special things you can do the fact that your wand work is only average isn't anything to worry about. With time and practice you'll probably get better with that, too. Try not to let it worry you."

Before he could say more the sounds of movement in the Hall indicated that lunch was over. Harry looked at Abagail and said,

"Ok, time for you to get going for your next class. So, if I can get it set up, you'll come with me and Ginny to the Weasleys on Friday and we'll see how you like them."

"Yes, sir," Abagail said as she got up and began to walk towards the door before stopping and turning around. "I don't know if I've said this before, but thank you for everything you've done for me. It's been a long time since my mum and dad have been gone and it's hard to remember much about them. I'd like to think that my dad was a lot like you but it's hard to say. But if I needed to have someone else there for me, I'm really glad it's been you," she finished with a sad smile and then turned and left the room.

Harry watched as she left, letting a long breath escape. Then he folded the large parchment and went up to see the Heads to let them in on what had been discovered. It was a much longer conversation then the one he had with Abagail.

Harry was as good as his word. With a number of messages and personal requests he got permission to take Abagail out of school for the weekend, and permission to hook the anteroom fireplace to the Floo network for the weekend. Ginny would be able to help with taking her but she had a match on Saturday and then would be free on Sunday. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were very happy to have guests for the weekend. The comment made was,

"Why would you even think you had to ask?"

So it was that on Friday afternoon shortly before dinner was to commence, Harry, Ginny and Abagail were standing before the fireplace in the anteroom dressed for travel. Each wore a long light cloak and hats to cut down on the soot they were likely to encounter; although it must be said that someone, likely a group of house elves, had done an excellent job cleaning the fireplace. Harry suspected that the Weasley's hearth was quite likely to shine.

"Ok, Abagail. Ginny will go first. Remember what we told you. Throw the powder down into the fireplace and when the green flames flare up you say 'the Burrow' clearly and then step in. When you see you've reached the other end, just step out, and don't worry because Ginny will be there to help you. Alright?"

"Ok, sir," she said a little nervously.

"Whenever you're ready, Ginny," Harry said.

"Right, see you there," she said and then threw down the powder, said 'the Burrow' and then stepped into the flames and disappeared.

"Wow," Abagail said with quiet excitement.

"Ok, little one, your turn," Harry said.

Abagail squared her shoulders, took a deep breath, threw down the powder and as the flames roared up she said calmly 'the Burrow' and stepped into the green curtain of fire. As she popped out of sight Harry thought he heard a little squeal but he wasn't sure. He counted to ten and then followed the same procedure and after the short disorienting journey stepped out into the living room of the Burrow. As he did he was met with a rush by Abagail,

"Oh, sir, that was the coolest thing ever. It was like an amusement park ride but ten times better. I wouldn't mind doing that every day," she said looking up at him.

"I'm glad you enjoyed the trip, Abagail. Now, have you had a chance to meet anyone, yet?"

Ginny spoke up.

"No, Harry, not yet so I'll do the honors. Mum, Dad," she said turning to her parents who were standing a few steps away, "this is Abagail Westwood. Abagail, this is my mum and dad, Molly and Arthur Weasley."

"Hello, sir, ma'am, it's very nice to meet you and thank you very much for inviting me to your house," Abagail said politely, her voice barely above a whisper.

"We are very pleased to meet you, Abagail," Mrs. Weasley began. "We've heard a great deal about you, of course, but it's wonderful to finally meet you. And you are welcome here at anytime, dear. Now what do you say we get you out of that cloak and hat."

"Yes, ma'am."

The three travelers took off their cloaks and hats and as Harry had thought, the Weasley fireplace was practically soot free and they arrived in very good order. Mrs. Weasley and Ginny then escorted Abagail upstairs to one of the new guest rooms and got her settled in. Then it was time for dinner.

Everyone except Mrs. Weasley took places at the table while she started plates and utensils floating through the air to land precisely on the table. Abagail sat and watched with rapt attention. When everything had been put out she looked at Mrs. Weasley as she took her seat and said,

"That was amazing, ma'am, I bet even Professor Flitwick couldn't move all that so smoothly."

"Well, my dear," Molly Weasley began with an embarrassed laugh, "I don't know about that, but having done it for so long for this crew I don't even really think about it anymore. I bet if I did, I'd start dropping things."

"Nonsense, Molly. You haven't dropped a plate or a cup in I don't know how long," Arthur Weasley said.

The food was as always, plentiful and tasty and it was obvious that despite any prior anxiety Abagail was enjoying herself. Mrs. Weasley was looking across the table at her with an appraising eye.

"Harry, I know we've talked about the young lady a number of times, but I don't recall you ever mentioning what a beauty she is," she said.

Abagail's eyes popped and she had to stifle a giggle as she blushed bright red. Harry laughed a little and said,

"Well, you know how it is, Mum. With Ginny and all I have to keep those kinds of comments to myself," he said with a half grin.

He was rewarded with a sound thwack on the arm from his redheaded fiancé who said,

"Yes, and you better remember that, Mr. Potter," with mock severity and then smiled at him and leaned in to kiss his cheek. "But you are right, Mum. She is a stunner."

Seeing Abagail duck her head down to hide her face in her long dark hair, Arthur Weasley spoke up.

"Now, now, ladies, let's not make the young lady uncomfortable. I have to admit you are correct but let's not embarrass her while she's still trying to get used to us," he said with his best fatherly voice.

Abagail looked up at him and smiled; the blush still evident on her cheeks. They ate in silence for a few moments and then Abagail spoke up.

"Mrs. Weasley, Mr. Potter was telling me that he thought you were just about the best cook he ever met. I think he's right. This is all really, really good. Thank you very much."

"You're very welcome, my dear. And thank you, a cook likes to hear that her food is being enjoyed," she said, glaring around at the members of her family.

"Great dinner, Mum, thanks."

"Yes, indeed, Molly. Excellent as always."

"Mmmffff," was all Harry could manage around a mouthful.

Molly Weasley winked at the diminutive girl who then laughed behind her hand. When they were done with the meal Molly took command.

"Alright, you three settle yourselves in the living room. Abagail and I will take care of this mess, won't we dear?"

"Yes, ma'am," Abagail replied.

The three adults walked into the living room and took seats. Abagail began to gather up knives and forks but Mrs. Weasley stopped her.

"No need to get your hands dirty, my dear. Try it this way," she said, holding up her wand.

"Um, I'm not sure about that," Abagail said. "I thought I wasn't allowed to do magic outside of Hogwarts, I'm too young."

"Don't worry, dear. The Ministry doesn't bother us out here. Just start small, one fork from the table to the basin. Like this," Molly said, demonstrating with a wave and a mumbled incantation.

Abagail watched and with a determined look took her wand and followed the expert example. As the fork floated up and began to move to the basin she squinted in concentration and watched as the utensil dropped into the soapy water. She smiled brightly.

"Well done, dear. Let's keep it going."

Ginny leaned over to Harry and whispered,

"That's just how she got me to do it."

In next to no time the clean up was finished and Mrs. Weasley and her kitchen helper were firmly ensconced on a large, well cushioned couch. Mrs. Weasley looked down at her and then said,

"So, my dear, is there anything you'd like to know about us or the Burrow?"

"Well, Mr. Potter has a told me a lot about you all. I remember that night in the hospital wing after he crashed into the tower he told me all about the Christmas you had. That sounded like so much fun. Everyone all squeezed in and presents being handed back and forth."

"Ah, yes. That was a special Christmas indeed. Harry really outdid himself that year. It's a lot more comfortable now, which is good since our family seems to grow every year," Molly said with a smile.

Abagail smiled back and then looked over at Mr. Weasley, her eyes going soft and slightly unfocused. Arthur looked back at her and said,

"Yes, Abagail, are you alright?"

"Yes, sir. I was just wondering. What's an Anglia?"

The room erupted in laughter and once everyone calmed down Mr. Weasley began the tale of his greatest and most ill fated foray into the world of magicked muggle machinery. Mrs. Weasley chimed in about the rescue of Harry from the Dursleys by the three youngest Weasley brothers and then Harry reluctantly concluded with the story of how he and Ron flew the little car to Hogwarts and what ultimately happened to it.

"For all I know, that little car is still running around inside the Forbidden Forest. I suppose the next time I see the Centaurs I can ask them about it, Dad."

"Never you mind, Harry. Better it stays where it is," his 'mum' said.

"You almost got expelled, Mr. Potter?" Abagail said, amazed at the idea.

Harry just nodded as Ginny chimed in.

"I know I'm might be risking ruining the reputation of the famous Harry Potter, but he was on the verge of being expelled several times and had pulled off other capers that if he had been caught he would have most definitely been expelled. He's quite the rouge, our Harry," she said with evil glee.

"Hey!" Harry said indignantly.

"It's ok, sir. I kind of know about a lot of this already. You were mostly doing things that we needed you to do. Just like you do now," she said with a smile.

"Air valve time," Harry said in an aside to Ginny.

Ginny hauled off and hammered Harry on the arm so hard he winced as she glared at him. As Harry rubbed his arm he said,

"Alright, I get the message."

"What's going on, children?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"Fleur and I have decided that we're tired of Harry kicking himself every chance he gets so we are going to remind him of it whenever it happens," Ginny said with a sweet smile.

"A conversation for another time, I think," Mr. Weasley interjected.

"Yes, sir," Harry and Ginny said together and then smiled sheepishly.

"So, young lady, what else would you like to know?" Mr. Weasley continued.

"My dad used to work in his garage a lot, on the car, my bicycle and stuff. Could I see your shop while I'm here?"

"Why, of course, Abagail. I'd be happy to," Mr. Weasley said with a big grin.

A moment later their conversation was interrupted by two pops out in the back yard. Then the kitchen door opened and Bill and Fleur came in.

"In here, children," Mrs. Weasley called out.

"Hello Mum, Dad," Bill replied. "I see your weekend guests have arrived safe and sound. What did you think of the Floo network, Miss Westwood?"

"It was really cool, Professor. I had a lot of fun even if it was a little short," she said looking up at Bill from her seat on the couch.

Harry and Ginny stood up knowing that Fleur would have waited for them so she could bestow her usual hugs and kisses in greeting. When she gripped Harry tightly she felt him wince a bit. She let go and looked at him.

"What ees wrong, mon ami, ees eet the leg again?" she asked, much concerned.

"No, Fleur, I just managed to bruise my arm and it's a little sore," Harry said matter-of-factly.

"Wrong, Mr. Wonderful," Ginny said and then she leaned in to whisper to her sister-in-law.

When they were finished Fleur looked at Harry, glaring at him at first and then her face shifted to a look of regret and she shook her head. Then she looked at Ginny and said,

"We 'ave a ways to go weeth 'im still, eh?"

Ginny just nodded. Fleur then shifted her attention to the guest of honor. Her face lit up in a bright smile that Harry knew all to well and the effect on the girl was not much different then it was on the boys.

"'ello, Abagail. I am Fleur. I 'ave seen you at 'ogwarts several times, of course, but eet ees so nice to meet you een person," when she finished she took a step closer and held her arms out.

Abagail bounced off the couch and stepped up to be engulfed in Fleur's embrace. It was an interesting study in contrast. The long silvery hair and outgoing personality versus the long dark hair and quiet reserve. But from the moment they stepped apart it was obvious that they hit it off immediately. Abagail had to look up to meet the taller Fleur's blue eyes but it was obvious to Harry she was enthralled. For her part, Fleur seemed equally taken with Abagail.

"She reminds me of the porcelain doll, yes? I theenk she would geeve my sister Gabi a run for 'er money, as you say," she said with that wide, brilliant smile.

"If she looks anything like you, I wouldn't stand much of a chance," Abagail said airily.

"I don't theenk so but eet ees sweet of you to say. Muum?" Fleur said by way of asking to sit on the couch.

"Certainly, dear, the both of you right here," she said, patting the couch beside her as she moved a bit to one side.

Abagail was bracketed by the two Mrs. Weasleys and looked very content. One small hand was still held in Fleur's and Harry was pleased to see how at ease she seemed. He didn't think that there would be much difficulty getting her to agree to spend her summer weekdays here. Ginny must have sensed his thoughts since she said quietly to him,

"She seems to be fitting in just fine, Harry. I think she'll do ok here with Mum this summer."

"I think you're right, love. It looks like she'll be getting quite a lot of attention from a certain blonde as well."

"Yes, and that might be a good thing. She's what, almost fourteen now? She's so small you sometimes forget about it. Fleur should be able to give her some tips about being a teenage girl," Ginny said thoughtfully.

"You could help her with that too, you know," Harry said.

"Thanks, sweetheart, but let's face it. I was still kind of a tom boy at that age and no one is more of a girl, at any age, then our Fleur," she finished with a smile.

The conversation rolled on for a while with Bill asking Harry about Beauxbaton and then his work at the Ministry and Harry asking about how things were going with the DADA classes and Gryffindor's Qudditch team.

"We're doing well, but there's a big match tomorrow so I'll have to be up at Hogwarts for the day. Fleur was telling me about that seeker you both saw at Beauxbaton."

"Yeah, she was pretty amazing. Very quick, lightening fast and a real competitor. She relies on her quickness a bit too much though. I gave her some tips on how to start anticipating what the snitch will do next as opposed to reacting to its last move. Fleur was the first to notice she needed something a bit more to really be great."

"'arry. You were officiating. You couldn't see everytheeng."

Fleur was about to continue when her eyebrow went up and she looked down at Abagail. She had fallen asleep and her head had come to rest on Fleur's shoulder. The blonde beauty had a small smile and her eyes looked strangely soft.

"I theenk our guest 'as 'ad a full night."

"Time for bed for her then," Mrs. Weasley said.

"May I, Muum?" Fleur asked quietly.

"What? Oh, of course dear," she replied.

Fleur leaned down and gently prodded Abagail to semi wakefulness and gently led her to the staircase.

"First guest room on the second floor, dear," Mrs. Weasley said quietly.

Fleur smiled back and led the sleepy girl up the stairs. Everyone turned to Bill who had been watching the scene with a smile on his scarred face. He looked back and said,

"She's been feeling very 'maternal' lately if you know what I mean. I think you're going to be grandparents and aunt and uncle before too much longer."

"Well, it's about time, is all I can say," Mrs. Weasley said in her best exasperated mother's voice.

They all laughed. They chatted for a bit more until Fleur came back down and motioned for Bill to come to her. With a 'I wonder what this is about' look he got up and went over to his wife who proceeded to talk to him in hushed tones, her hands lightly touching both his forearms. She was looking up at him as she spoke, her eyes questioning. When he apparently agreed to what she was asking her face lit up and she hugged and kissed him. Then she walked over to Mrs. Weasley still holding on to Bill's hand.

"Muum, Bill ees going to be returning to 'ogwarts tonight. May I stay and spend the weekend?"

"Well, of course you can, dear. You're always welcome, you know that. I'm sure Abagail would enjoy having you here."

"That would be great, Fleur. I have a match tomorrow so I'll be gone all day and we can't leave her here with just Harry. He can be such a lump, you know?" Ginny said with a perfectly straight face.

"Hey," Harry once more had to respond indignantly.

Fleur burst out laughing then had to clamp her hand over her mouth, remembering that Abagail was sleeping just upstairs. The others were forced to stifle laughs as well while Ginny patted Harry's forearm to sooth his hurt feelings.

"Well, my dears, I think we need to wrap this evening up. Ginny, are you staying or going?"

"Going, Mum. Early call tomorrow. Harry, would you walk me out?" Ginny asked.

"I dunno, is it safe?" he asked looking a bit apprehensive.

"Yes, my hero, it's safe as long as I don't hear any more of that nonsense out of you," she said.

"Yes, ma'am," Harry said and Ginny gave him a big smile, then hooked his good arm and walked with him outside.

They came to a stop about ten feet away from the back door and Ginny turned and grabbed Harry around the neck and pulled his face down to hers. She pressed her lips hard against his and gave him the kind of kiss that always made his knees go weak. When they separated she looked at him and said,

"I love you, Harry, and I always will but I meant what I said before. No more digs at yourself and no more false modesty. Just honesty, ok?"

"Ok, Ginny. Besides I don't think I can survive the abuse," he said with a little grin.

She reached up and gave him another kiss and then stepped back.

"See you here after the match tomorrow, my hero," she said and then Disapparated.

Harry looked at where she had been standing for a moment and then with a sigh turned around and walked back into the house. Bill and Fleur were still standing and talking with their parents. Bill looked over at Harry and said,

"Alright there, Harry?"

"Yes, sir, Professor Weasley, just fine."

"Good, it's my turn to head out. Look after the Mrs. for me, will you?" he said with a grin.

"Um, I thought she was supposed to be looking after me?"

Bill laughed and shook his head, then said,

"It does seem that way. Well, good night everyone, I'll be back around dinner time tomorrow," he said then looked down at Fleur. "Walk me out?"

"Of course," she replied with a smile.

Harry shook hands with Bill then took a seat across from his 'parents'. Mrs. Weasley looked over at him and smiled.

"Well, Harry, I don't know about you but I think that went pretty well."

"I think it went great. She seems to have really warmed up to you and she and Fleur hit it off really well. I think things will work out fine," he said with a smile.

At this point Fleur came back into the house and came over and sat down next to Harry and took hold of his arm. She looked at him with a small smile and said,

"'arry, that ees a most precious young lady. What you are doing for 'er is wonderful."

"Yes, she is Fleur. I just hope I'm not stepping over some line with this."

"What do you mean, son?" Mr. Weasley asked.

"Well, I was her teacher after all. I just hope my becoming her guardian doesn't cause any problems for her, that's all," he said.

"Harry, how could you think that? You were more student than teacher that year," Mrs. Weasley countered. "You saw a child in need and you reached out to help her. That is never stepping over the line. I can't imagine anyone making trouble for her. Not more then once anyway," she said the last with a very unpleasant look on her face.

"Do not worry about such theengs, 'arry. Do what you feel ees right and you will be doing the right theeng," Fleur said.

"Well, right now I feel the right thing is to go to sleep. It's been a busy week."

"You know which room to take, Harry. It's all ready for you. Get a good night's rest and we'll see you for breakfast in the morning, dear," Mrs. Weasley said with a smile.

"Sleep well, mon frere," Fleur said as she leaned over and kissed Harry on the cheek.

He got up and went over to give his 'mum' a kiss good night and shook hands with his 'dad'.

His sleep was deep and dreamless and despite her being only a few dozen feet away there was no connection of their minds. Harry awoke when he heard a banging on his door.

"What is it?"

"It's time for breakfast, sir. Mrs. Weasley sent me to wake you up."

"Ok, Abagail. I'll be down in a little bit," he said as he stretched and climbed out of bed.

He pulled on a robe and walked to the new bathroom down the hall and got himself pulled together and then back to the room he shared with Ron to get dressed. As he walked down the staircase he was greeted by the smells of bacon, sausage, eggs and fresh rolls. He was much wider awake now and was smiling as he walked into the kitchen. He looked at what was going on and had to smile even more. Abagail was draped with a slightly oversized apron and her long black hair was pulled back and held with a clip. Her faced was smudged with flour and split by a large grin.

"Sir!" she called out and ran up to him and gave him a big hug that left a touch of flour on his shirt. "Oops, sorry, sir," she giggled and tried to brush the flour away.

"That's ok, Abagail. You look like you've been having fun."

"Yes, sir. I woke up early and I came down and Mrs. Weasley was just starting to make breakfast so I got to help. I hope you like the rolls. I made the dough," she said.

"I can't wait," he said looking down at her.

"Sit yourself down, Harry. We'll be waiting just a bit; I'm expecting a few new arrivals this morning."

"More of the clan stopping by to meet our honored guest?" Harry asked, grinning at Abagail.

"Yes, and I think I hear one now," Mrs. Weasley said.

She was right. Charlie opened the door to the kitchen and said,

"Good morning everybody. I hope you made a lot for breakfast, I'm starving," he said as he walked up and gave his mum a hug.

"Yes, there is, dear. Sit yourself down. My assistant and I have been slaving since sun up to make enough to feed this crew."

"Ah, yes, this must be Abagail. Hi, Abagail. I'm Charlie Weasley."

"Hello, sir," she said looking at him, then her eyes lost some of their focus and then she gasped. "Oh, you shouldn't have gotten so close."

Charlie blinked and his right hand came to rest on his left forearm. Mrs. Weasley was looking at her second son.

"What have you been up to, young fellow me lad?"

With a crooked grin he replied,

"Same as always, Mum. I forgot that Abagail can see more then what's plain to the eye."

"I'm really sorry. I didn't mean to cause any trouble," she said anxiously.

Mrs. Weasley laid a comforting hand on Abagail's shoulder and said,

"Don't worry, my dear. We've long ago gotten use to this one showing up with new burns and scars. He's managed not to lose any body parts so far so we consider ourselves lucky."

Charlie laughed and came over to stand in front of Abagail. Unlike his taller, lanky brothers he didn't loom over the diminutive witch but he still bent a bit as he reached for her hand.

"I'm very pleased to meet you, Abagail. I've heard a lot about you. I understand you've got yourself a pretty interesting broomstick," he said.

"Oh, yes sir. Mr. Potter got if for me. Regular brooms are just too big for me to handle but this one is special and I really love to fly," she said breathlessly.

"So do I, little lady, so do I. If you decide to spend some time here during the summer maybe we can get in some flying time together," Charlie said. "Oh, and you can call me Charlie."

"I would love that, um, Charlie."

"Abagail," Harry began, "while you're here why don't you call everyone by their first names? Well, us kids, at least," he said the last with a smile.

"Um, well I guess I could, sir, um, but there's you and Professor Weasley. I don't think that would be proper, would it?" she said shyly.

"Well, you're probably right about Bill but you should ask him when you see him later. As for me, I'm not really a professor and with you coming to live with me, I think it will be alright. If you feel better about it when we are at school you can call me 'sir' but I won't mind if you use 'Harry'." He said kindly.

"Oh, ok, um, Harry," she said and then turned red and giggled a little.

As Charlie settled himself down at the table there came another pop outside and in a moment Ron strode through the door. Seeing Harry he stopped and with a dead serious face snapped to attention in proper military fashion and saluted.

"Patroller Trainee Weasley reporting, SAH!"

Harry cast a wary eye at his best mate and then decided to play along with the joke. He stood up and came up to his friend and took a walk around him like a Field Marshall inspecting a raw recruit. Since it was Saturday at the Burrow, Ron was dressed in casual clothes, clean but most certainly casual. Harry came to a stop directly in front of Ron and stood with no more than two inches between their noses.

"So, this is what passes for a recruit these days, eh?" he said with mock seriousness. "I've seen better specimens in one of Professor Sprout's preserving jars. And do something about that hair, red."

The last statement was more than Ron could handle and he began to smile then laughed through tightly clenched lips. Then both he and Harry began to laugh out loud. Ron threw an arm around Harry's shoulder and said,

"Look who's talking about keeping his bloody hair in order."

He and Ron shook hands and then Harry waved Abagail over.

"Abagail, I know you've probably seen Ron once or twice but I wanted to introduce you to him, my first and still best friend, well, he and Hermione."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Abagail," Ron said.

"Hi, um, Ron. I've seen you a lot. You know, when I see Harry and the things he's done."

"Oh, I can just imagine. It's a good thing Abagail wasn't around when you and I were in school, mate. Can you just see Professor McGonagall tapping into all our capers," Ron said in mock horror.

"Oh, no, I would never have informed on you like that," Abagail replied.

Ron laughed and gave her a one armed squeeze on the shoulder. Ron then took a seat at the table so he was sitting next to Harry. Mrs. Weasley began directing the platters of food while Abagail carefully directed a fresh baked roll onto each plate. Her large dark eyes were squinting in concentration as she landed each one with great care. The last one landed on a plate in front of an empty chair when the last expected diner arrived.

"Bon jour, everyone," Fleur said cheerily as she swept into the kitchen.

Mrs. Weasley received the first kiss on the cheek and then she gathered Abagail up in a big hug that was returned with great enthusiasm. She then leaned over Charlie's shoulder and kissed his freckled cheek.

"Good morning, brother Charles. You seem to be doeeng well; the dragons are be'aving themselves, yes?"

"Well enough to keep me in one piece, Fleur," he said with a laugh.

Then she moved around the table and made a big fuss over Ron with a two armed hug around his neck from behind and wet kisses on both cheeks. Ron went bright red and nearly froze in place. Harry could hear a low chuckle not unlike the one he heard in reference to the problems of Professor Fromage. Harry knew the angelic looking young woman definitely had a devilish side. Then she straightened up and looked down at Harry who was looking back up at her.

"'arry. Up you come, s'il vous plait," she said with a look that would brook no argument.

Harry stood up and Fleur wrapped her long slender arms around his shoulders and pulled him close. He brought his arms together behind her back and squeezed. Then she pulled back and gave him her customary two cheek and one forehead kiss combination which he returned minus the forehead. She smiled at him and said,

"Ah, 'arry you are learning. Just remember, always like that, yes, mon ami?"

"Whatever you say, Fleur."

With the last arrival it was clear that someone was missing.

"Where's Dad, Mum?" Charlie asked.

"Your father left here at the crack of dawn this morning, all very hush hush. He was in his casual clothes so it's not about work, I'm sure. I'd swear that shop of his will contain some kind of car by nightfall," she said, giving Harry a 'look' that was returned with one of total innocence.

Ron and Charlie could only look at their plates and laugh quietly. The rest of the meal passed very pleasantly. Once everything was laid out on the table Mrs. Weasley and Abagail joined the rest with Abagail sitting next to Harry. Everyone was very complimentary about the rolls and Abagail was having a hard time suppressing a big smile. Once everyone had finished eating Mrs. Weasley said,

"So my dears, what plans do you all have for the day?"

"As for me, Muum, if Abagail 'as no objections I would like to spend the morning getting to know 'er better, 'ave a little girl time as the say," Fleur said, smiling down at Abagail who returned a smile of her own and a vigorous nod.

"I don't know. I'm here to take it easy, so unless you have something for us I thought the three of us could do some flying and Quidditch. What do you think, guys?" Charlie asked.

"Sounds good to me," Harry replied.

"Oh, great," Ron said, rolling his eyes dramatically. "I get to play Quidditch with two of the best flyers every seen at Hogwarts. And worse, one of 'em is my boss."

Harry and Charlie laughed and the three got up to go outside. Abagail insisted that she help Mrs. Weasley first and so she and Fleur pitched in and helped clear the table. Fleur looked at the kitchen door through which the three guys had left and said,

"'ow did they do that? They go outside and play while we get to do the cleaneeng up?"

"Oh, don't you mind that, Fleur dear. We all know who rules the roost around here," Mrs. Weasley said meaningfully.

Fleur and Abagail looked at each other and laughed. Outside the 'guys' got down to the business of playing. Charlie had brought his broom with him, Ron's was stored at the house and Harry borrowed one that Bill had left behind. A battered quaffle was produced and the three walked across to the field. Within minutes they were airborne and taking easy sweeps tossing the quaffle back and forth. None of them had spent any serious time in the air lately so they were just getting the feel back. Harry was riding an old Comet model so it was taking him some concentration but soon he was feeling confident enough to open it up a bit. Charlie and Ron were soon right behind him. It wasn't long before the ladies in the house could hear the sounds of three fliers whooping it up.

Fleur and Abagail were sitting on a couch backed by the bigger of the front windows. They were watching as the three 'boys' chased each other across the sky over the field. Fleur looked down at Abagail and said,

"When the time comes for you, Abagail, make sure you find someone who does not forget 'ow to play. Who remembers that there ees always a boy eenside wanting to come out."

"Professor Weasley still plays?" Abagail asked, amazed.

"Oui," Fleur replied with a gentle smile. "'e 'as seen so much of the bad side of life with 'is job at Gringotts and his time fighting Voldemort yet 'e smiles so much and laughs and enjoys 'is time with 'is students. Eet ees like 'e ees playing all the time. I can only imagine 'ow much fun 'e ees 'aving today with the big Quidditch match."

Fleur looked back outside and said,

"And look at 'arry. Who 'as 'ad as difficult a life as 'e and listen to 'im now."

Then she looked back down at Abagail and took hold of one of her small hands and a said,

"So, ees there anyone at 'ogwarts that as captured your attention?"

Abagail turned bright red and giggled. Meanwhile the three fliers continued their antics for a couple of hours, occasionally taking breaks to hover and chat, but always making sure they stayed below the level of the trees to avoid muggle eyes. They finally came in for a landing and put the brooms away. They pulled up some battered old chairs in the backyard and sat down. Harry looked around, remembering how much time he had spent out here the summer when he was recovering. A thought occurred to him and he looked over at Charlie.

"So has anything more come to light about that dragon I tangled with?"

"No, Harry. I've told you all I know. Once the Ministry took control of the carcass I wasn't privy to too much more information. We were able to confirm that it was crossed with a Basilisk somehow. There is some thought amongst my colleagues that perhaps it was some plot of Voldemort's to create a dragon that he could control. A dragon is a reptile but it isn't all that closely related to a snake. Maybe he was trying to get some attributes of a Basilisk mixed into a dragon and then that way he could communicate with it and control it. A very scary prospect."

"I wonder if Milligan, the head of the investigative unit might be able to find out what's going on. I'll have to ask him. How about you, Ron? How's it going with the training?" Harry asked his best friend.

"I like it a lot, Harry. We've been doing a lot of the public relations stuff you wanted and there have been a few situations that we've been able to help with, so it's good."

"Yeah, Maxwell told me about those when I got back from Beauxbaton. Good stuff," Harry replied.

Harry nodded. Then Charlie looked at Harry and asked,

"So how are things shaping up for the wedding, Harry?"

"Um, don't know really. I guess I should ask Mum. Ginny said a while ago that Mum had done a lot already but I don't really know. I got the impression all I had to do was worry about who my ushers would be. But I don't know how many I'm supposed to have. I'm supposed to match numbers with Ginny but she hasn't said yet. Guess we can talk about it tonight maybe. I'd like to have all you guys involved, I just don't know yet."

"Well, I wouldn't worry about it too much. They'll tell you when they are ready. Besides, you've already done more than enough just by arranging for the Great Hall. That was brilliant," Charlie said with a smile.

"I guess," Harry said with a smile and shrug.

They talked some more about this and that until a strange noise was heard from down the road that lead to Ottery St. Catchpole. The three looked up and then got up and walked over to the wall in time to see a small black car approaching followed by a cloud of pale blue smoke. An occasional pop would color the blue with black and add an air of decrepitude to the faded looking mass of metal. As it got closer they could see the beaming face of Arthur Weasley looking back at them through the dirty windshield. Charlie could only shake his head while Harry and Ron started to laugh. They watched as the car rolled unceremoniously up to one of the garage bay doors of the elder Weasley's shop. It came to a stop with a cough, a sputter and then a large bang and backfire that produced a small cloud of black smoke that drifted over the yard.

Mr. Weasley climbed out of the car and waved to the 'boys' to come over. The three climbed the low garden wall and approached the vehicle. They could also hear the back door open and the exasperated exclamation from Mrs. Weasley,

"Oh dear, not again."

And the more enthusiastic but only barely audible,

"Oh, wow, what a cool car," followed by the sound of rapid footfalls as Abagail dashed across the yard to the gate and path to the 'shed'.

"So, what do you think, fellas? A 1955 Ford Popular. Kinda rare these days. An elderly patient of the Grangers had it in an old garage. Let it go very cheaply. Hello, there Abagail, what do you think?"

"It's great, Mr. Weasley. My dad's dad had one of these a long time ago. I remember seeing pictures of him with it. Can I sit inside, please?" she said airily.

"Of course. Get behind the wheel and help steer it in while the boys and I push. There you go. Ok fellas fall in behind and give it a shove," Arthur Weasley said as Abagail got behind the wheel.

The Popular was a small car but even so, Abagail had to scoot forward on the seat to grab the steering wheel and see out over the dash. Mr. Weasley put a hand on the wheel and helped steer as the three young men pushed from the rear. Molly Weasley and Fleur had come to stand behind the wall and watch.

"Muum," Fleur began, "Dad needs to play too, yes?"

"Oh, I know, dear, but why couldn't he have taken up gardening or even fishing," Molly Weasley said with a small laugh as she draped an arm around her daughter-in-law's shoulder then turned and went back into the house. Fleur followed a few minutes later.

After an hour or so it took three loud calls to get the rest of them back into the house for lunch. Mr. Weasley already had dirt and dust on his hands, face and clothes and his wife chased him upstairs to clean up. Abagail had managed a few smudges on her face that Mrs. Weasley took care of at the kitchen sink. When Mr. Weasley returned everyone else was seated and was looking towards Mrs. Weasley with some apprehension.

"Well, Arthur?"

"Molly, dear. It's just something for me to tinker with. I happened to bump into Hermione a few weeks ago and she passed on a message from her dad that one of his patients had this old car sitting in a garage on an estate and wanted to be rid of it. I got a very good deal on it. It might even be something that Abagail could help me over the summer."

"Wow," was all they heard in that quiet little voice.

"You are a senior member of the Ministry. You know how much trouble that flying Anglia of yours caused," she said sternly.

"I don't intend on putting any spells on this one, my dear. Simply a tear down and rebuild. You have my word on that."

Molly Weasley looked at her husband then at their tiny houseguest.

"Fleur gave you some advice about men who play. Just be careful, my dear, about what toys they play with," she said in pained voice. "Alright, let's eat."

Mr. Weasley smiled and winked at Abagail while the rest began serving themselves. Lunch was very good, as usual, and when it was over the mad tinkerer and his young protégé quickly excused themselves. Molly watched as the mismatched pair disappeared through the door. She let out a mournful sigh.

"I think we've lost her."

"Oh, do not worry so, Muum. Een the summertime she will be 'ere during the weekday and Dad weell be at work," Fleur said.

"Mmm, yes, you're right, dear. I guess we should get her a pair of overalls at least so she doesn't ruin her clothes," she said with a rueful laugh.

"Um, Mum, while I have you here, Charlie raised an interesting question about the wedding. Is there anything I need to be doing or know about?" Harry asked.

"Well dear, like most grooms you'll really only need to worry about your best man and ushers. And the wedding rings of course, but you really should work that out with Ginny. All the rest is being dealt with, thank you very much though for asking," Mrs. Weasley said.

"Do you know how many I need to pick? The last time I talked about it with Ginny she was still up in the air about even a maid of honor."

"I think she said she was pretty sure but we'll talk to her tonight," she said.

"Ok, oh and make sure that whatever bills come in go to me," Harry said.

"Well, now, dear, it's usually the bride's parents that deal with that," Mrs. Weasley replied.

"It was my idea to have this big wedding at the Great Hall. I'm not going to saddle you and Dad with the cost," Harry returned firmly.

"We'll discuss it later, your father, you and I," Mrs. Weasley said trying to head off any unpleasantness. "Now, let's clean up and get the house ready for our dinner guests."

"'oo else are you expecting, Muum?"

"Well, George and Angelina, Hermione, and Percy said he's coming and he's bringing someone."

The last comment got everyone's attention. They all knew Percy had been seeing someone but he had been very secretive about it. The fact that he was bringing her to the Burrow indicated it was fairly serious. With nothing better to do, Harry, Ron and Charlie wandered out to see what was going on with the new acquisition. Looking in through the open garage bay door the three could see the bottom half of Mr. Weasley sticking out from the side of the engine compartment and they could hear a muffled conversation.

"Can you see the backside of the ignition switch, Abagail?" came the muted voice of their dad.

The reply was too low to hear. But obviously it was heard by Mr. Weasley, who replied,

"Ok, see if there are any lose wires. Yes, look for any one that is just hanging with the bare end visible."

By now Harry had edged up to where he could look through a side window and he saw the lower half of Abagail on the floor in front of the passenger seat, her upper body hidden behind the fascia panel. There was light coming from behind the panel so she must have been using a muggle torch. It looked like she was wearing one of Mr. Weasley's old jackets to protect her clothes from the dust. From where he was Harry could now hear Abagail, if barely.

"Ok, don't touch it. I need to disconnect the battery. I'm going to come around and take a look," Mr. Weasley said and then pulled is head out from under the hood. "Oh, hello fellas. We're trying to figure out why the engine died on me as I pulled up. It looks like the wiring is in pretty fragile condition."

He then knelt down on the floor on the driver's side and leaned in under the fascia on that side.

"Yup, that's it. Nice job, Abagail. Thanks," he said from underneath.

When he climbed back out he looked at his three sons and said,

"Ok, boys, lend a hand. I want to pull off the bonnet and grille and radiator before dinner."

For the rest of the afternoon came the sound of banging, sheet metal clanging and voices from the garage. Just as the sun was setting Bill Apparated into the backyard but his attention was immediately focused on the noise in the garage. He walked over to investigate and when he saw what was going on he couldn't help but laugh. He saw the small black car up on stands. The four wheels and all the front sheet metal had been removed and laid out on the floor of the second bay. Abagail was crouched down by a wheel removing rust with a wire brush. She was still dressed in the old jacket with her sleeves rolled up to half the original length. The bottom halves of two bodies were visible from either side of the car as someone was pulling out the seats. Mr. Weasley and Charlie were examining something on a bench with their backs to the door.

"Dad, what's going on?" Bill called in.

"Come on in, son. Take a look for yourself. I brought this home this morning."

"Has Mum seen this yet?" Bill asked as he walked past the car, stepping over a pair of legs.

"Yes, she saw it when I brought it home. She's not happy about it but seems willing to put up with it," Bill's dad said with a small grin. "I don't plan on spelling it at all, so we won't have any unauthorized flying cars zipping around the skies of Devon. Right, boys," he said,

Muffled agreements, followed by laughing, were heard from inside the car. Bill turned and looked at Abagail crouched on the floor aggressively attacking the rust and flaking paint on the wheel.

"Hello there, Abagail. Enjoying yourself?"

"Oh, yes sir, Professor Weasley," she said, looking up at him. "Your dad promised me I can help him with it this summer, even painting it."

Her dark eyes were bright and her smudged face was split by a bright smile. Bill nodded and returned the grin. He turned back to his father.

"Well, I better get inside and say hello to Fleur and Mum. Oh, by the way guys, Gryffindor won today, three hundred ten to seventy. Another undefeated season."

Muffled affirmative exclamations came out of the cramped passenger compartment. Bill just shook his head and carefully picked his way out of the garage. The rest had to leave a few moments later as Bill called out from the backyard that they needed to come in and clean up for dinner. He stood there and waited until he saw four taller figures surrounding a much shorter one that appeared to be talking nonstop and with a great deal of animation. He turned and walked back into the house.

"They're on the way, Mum. It seems like Dad has found himself a very willing assistant. At least someone was clever enough to put one of Dad's old jackets on her."

"Thank you for calling them in, dear," Mrs. Weasley said in a long suffering voice. "And yes, I think you're right about Abagail. I remember Ginny used to like spending time in the shop with your father until she was able to get a broom to do what she wanted and then it was all about flying."

She had just finished when the subjects of the discussion trooped through the kitchen door. Ron and Harry were fairly dusty from the waist up while Charlie and his dad had fairly dirty hands. Abagail looked like she needed a good face scrubbing but the oversized jacket had saved the rest of her including her hair which had been tucked down her collar. She was smiling fit to burst.

"What a fun afternoon, Mrs. Weasley. I got to crawl up under the dashboard and then I was cleaning the wheels. Mr. Weasley said he'd teach me all about how a car works. I might even get to do some painting," she rattled off breathlessly.

Mrs. Weasley looked at her with a smile and said,

"That's just wonderful, Abagail. It sounds like you wouldn't mind spending time with us during the summer then."

"Oh no, ma'am. I wouldn't mind at all. I know I told Mr. Potter, I mean Harry, that I was kind of worried but not anymore. I'll be learning how to cook and all about cars and flying and well…" at which point she looked at Fleur and kind of blushed. "It'll be really great. I don't know how I can ever thank you."

Mrs. Weasley's smile got much bigger and she said,

"I'm so very happy to hear you say all that, Abagail. It will be just as wonderful for us to have you here. As to thanking me, you can do that by going upstairs with Fleur and getting cleaned up and ready to meet the rest of the family. Fleur, dear?"

"Oui, Muum. Come along, Abagail," Fleur said, holding her hand out.

Harry watched as the two walked up the stairs hand and hand. He looked at his mum and dad and said,

"I can't thank you enough. I knew that she'd have a place to come to this summer at the Black house. But now I think she'll be coming home."