Author's note: I decided to start using first person POV hope you guys like it. i think it will help me with more descriptive detail. Something I know my stories tend to lack. Please Please read and review !

Chapter 9

Ginny's POV

I lay crumpled in a ball on my bed for what seemed like hours. I knew Pansy wouldn't be home until the early morning. Fine with me, I don't feel like talking. My heart feels like it was put in a blender. I Always hated that exaggeration in romance novels. I mean really, who knows what that feels like. Why can't you just say I feel like crap the guy I have feelings for is an ass and I just became aware of it.

However, you know what, My heart actually does feel like what I would believe my heart being in a blender would feel like. I can't believe he got so mad, I didn't mean anything by what I had said. Well, maybe I did, I don't know, I suppose I never really thought about it.

Tired of feeling like a victim I pulled myself off the bed and went to take a bath. Taking one final look in the mirror, I want to remember what this looks like, So I can remind myself that I ever want to be here again. Stripping off my clothes I ran steaming water and cherry blossom body wash into the oversized Jacuzzi tub and slipped into the foaming water.

The water stings at first but as my body acclimates to the temperature I relish in the relaxing aroma of the bubble bath. I close my eyes and lean my head back trying to clear my mind.

Did I see myself as Tom's wife? And eventually with a baby on the way? I never really thought myself the marrying type or the mother type. I loved my mother, wait love, I love my mother even though I am starting to pull away from my families wholesome beliefs, I love my mother but I never wanted to be her. I think I am more confused now then ever.

I remember back to a fight I overheard my parents having when I was younger. I was sitting on the staircase late at night having crept out of bed to get a snack, It was the night before my first year at Hogwarts and I was restless. I heard raised voices coming from the kitchen.

" Molly I didn't mean it that way. I love you, I love our life and our children are the world to me." I heard my father say in an urgent half whisper after my mother had scolded him for his volume.

" You said that you should have taken that job in America Arthur! Do you think I don't know that if you had we wouldn't be struggling. I know that but we decided that with a toddler and another on the way it wasn't the time to move away from our families to a strange country."

" I know Molly, I didn't mean it. It was said in anger." I could hear the pleading in his voice. I never knew that we could have lived in America, it must have caused allot of problems for them to never have mentioned it even once.

" True feelings come out in times of anger Arthur" My mom's voice was sad and final, I heard footsteps coming closer so I ran back to my room. The next morning was so hectic getting to King's Cross I never gave it a second thought. That wasn't the last time I heard mom say true feeling come out in times of anger.

Was she right? She must be, as much as I don't like to admit it, she usually was right.

"She is right" Ginny whispered to herself as tears formed in the corner of her eyes. I tried to tell myself that my needs and wants are important, that I shouldn't settle, I deserved to be happy. My eyes started drooping and I realized I was exhausted, crying always gave me a headache and made me tired. The pep talk I kept repeating to myself didn't keep me from missing Tom.

Slowly I pulled myself out of the now tepid bath water, wrapped myself in a large fluffy towel and got ready for bed. Sleep didn't come easy but after I took all of the clothes Tom had bought me and burned them I felt a little better and eventually fell into a fitful sleep. My dreams were filled with memories of Tom and I, What we were and what we could become. I didn't quite know where the relationship was going or even how far it could go considering who he was. All I knew was that the dreams were happy ones but as I lay in bed looking up at the ceiling as the sun started to creep through the break in the curtains they slipped away from me. I hate it when I wake up from a dream and for a few precious seconds it fills me with joy before being erased from my mind completely.

I had to be at work by 11 so I didn't get to see Pansy. She would have killed me if I had woke her up. She was probably hungover and will sleep most of the day. To my great relief, it was so busy at the cafe I didn't have much time to think about Tom or for anyone to ask why she wasn't her normally bubbly self or why her eyes were puffy from crying.

" Hey Ginny we are going out for a girls night after work, Do you want to come?" Janelle, one of the other Baristas asked. I really like Janelle but I'm not sure I'm up for it. Or maybe its just what I need to get over this.

" Oh thanks for the invite but I don't really"

"Ginny" Janelle interrupted. " I hope you don't mind me saying but you look like hell. I know we don't know each other that well but I know a breakup when I see one. Come, please it will be fun." I thought for a minute before answering. I knew tonight would be fun, Fun seems to follow Janelle, guys too. I looked a her in her tight jeans, long brown hair swept up in a messy pony tale that happens to look great on her.

" Ok. Umm where are you going?"

" The is this great club a few blocks from here that Andre is a bartender at a few nights a week. He can get us free drinks. We are gonna meet out front here at 9:30."

" Ok" I could get wasted tonight, plenty of people drown their sorrows in alcohol.

After work I came home to get ready to meet the girls. I was almost immediately ambushed by Pansy asking me questions about my hot night with Tom. I gave her the succinct version, not really feeling like getting into it.

" Is that why all your best clothes are gone and there is a pile of ashes on the floor."

" Oh yea" I said as I started gathering my things for a shower. "I burned all the clothes he gave me"

"Ginny ! they were gorgeous"

" Pansy please, I don't want to talk about this anymore. I'm meeting the girls in an hour to go out. I need a shower." I picked up my towel and retreated to the bathroom.

" Ginny I'm going to get another drink, Do you need a refill ?" Janelle yelled over the blaring music on the dance floor. I held up my still full cosmo in response and kept dancing.

This place was awesome. I lost track of time as we danced to the music. I've really been having allot of fun. There was a restaurant hooked onto the club and several smaller bars. It was nice to be able to step away from the blaring music and flashing lights every once in a while.

I'm dressed in my favorite jeans mini skirt with a pale pink layered cami with a beaded round neckline. My 3 inch white wedge heels and glitter wristlet complimented the outfit well.

Swaying to the music and sipping my drink I let the loud foreign music wash over me. I can feel myself letting loose. It feels great. Suddenly I feel a hand on my ass and my head snaps to its owner.

" Can I help you ?" I shout at the big oaf who seemed to think it was ok to grope me. His hands slip to my waist as he holds me against him and starts moving to the music. I try to pry his hands off but they won't budge.

" Excuse me, Could you please let go"

" Your hot !" The tall blonde haired man shouts.

" Uh thanks do you think you could get your hand off my ass ?" I say getting a little nervous at the aggressive look in his eye.

" I want to dance with you."

" Thats nice but I don't want too, let go."

" Come on you can't expect to flaunt that ass and not expect attention."

" And you can't expect to get anywhere with a girl acting like a lush." Slipping out of his grasp I begin to walk away as he grabs my wrist, wishing I had my wand my instincts take over and I fling my drink in his face.

" You little bitch" I hear him growl, all of a sudden out of nowhere a fist goes flying at his face. I stare in shock as I look at him sprawled out on the floor. The crowd has parted but doesn't seem very concerned about what happened. I image it happens allot considering the amount of alcohol that is consumed here. I look up and see two big bouncers coming our way. I frantically look around for Janelle I see her at the bar talking to Andre, I can't get to her because of the crowd. I wave and gesture to the door, trying to tell her to meet me outside. The crowd seems to be crushing together as I try to squeeze by. Its going to take forever to get out. Suddenly a hand slips into mine and I feel the familiar pull of apparition.

At first I'm relieved but start to panic when I realize I was in a muggle club with muggle friends. As my feet slam into the ground I feel someones arm slip around my waist to steady me. I look up into the mesmerizing green eyes of Tom Riddle. For a moment we just stare at each other, our eyes locked as the sound of the music and random people outside the club smoking and talking melt away.

As reality slowly starts to seep into my brain the fog lifts and I pull away remembering our fight. Tom didn't say anything to he just turned and walked away turning down an ally, after a moments hesitation I decided to go after him. I turned the corner just in time to see him apperate away.

" Ginny, Ginny" I shake my head and look up the street towards Janelle. She looks frantic, carrying her shoes she is running towards me.

" What the hell happened ?"

" That guy wouldn't take his hands off me, I threw my drink in his face and somebody punched him."

" Who ?"

" I ... I don't know I didn't see him. Can we please go home, Its been a rough day." Janelle flung an arm around my shoulders as we started walking towards the main street to catch a cab.

" How bout I buy you a cup of coffee and you tell me about this ass hole who broke your heart ?" I sighed heavily before answering. I was torn, I didn't want to talk about it but I knew it could help, although I knew I couldn't disclose everything about the relationship.

" Sounds good, Someplace quite." She chuckled as she steered me down the street.

Ten minutes later we are sitting in a coffee shop a short ways from the club. Its kind of a dump but the coffee is decent. Its 2 am so we didn't have much choice. As I look around I can see that its a popular place for the many club hoppers to sit, talk and try to ward off a wicked hangover.

I told Janelle my story as best I could. Revealing that It was a long distance, complicated relationship.

" Sounds like a jerk, you can do better. You don't want someone who is that afraid of commitment."

" I know your right, It will just take some time." I gave her a weak smile. We finished our coffee and half an hour later I was laying in bed wondering how and why Tom showed up tonight.

Was he having me followed? Probably, However it happened it was clear he still had feelings for me, if he cared enough to help me. He better not show up again, I don't need him playing with my emotions. I can't turn them on and off the way he can.

The rest of the week was pretty boring. Pansy and I took a train to the beach a couple of days. Business at the cafe started to slow down, I guess people don't drink as much coffee in the heat.

Last night as we were closing up Andre asked me out for dinner tonight. I accepted, I guess now is as good a time as any to start dating.

" What do you think of this one?" I asked Pansy for the tenth time. I could decide what to where. Pansy was laying on her back on my bed tossing a pillow in the air out of boredom.

" Pansy look please" I begged.

" Ginny it looks great, truly. Just like the last dozen."

" I'm sorry, I'm just nervous. I'm not sure I should be doing this."

" Why?"

" Well because we work together. And Tom..."

"Ginny Tom made his feelings clear. He was toying with you showing up the other night. Thats what he does. You should make him jealous."

" Let me just try to get through this night first before you start scheming." Pansy just laughed.

The date was nothing special, Dinner and a movie, very muggle. We didn't have the chemistry Tom and I shared.

" I uh had a nice time Andre thank you." I said as we reached the lobby of my building.

" Its ok Ginny, I know we don't have it. Still friends?" I was so relieved he felt the same way, I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding.

" Im so glad, yes. I would hate to lose you as a friend. I'm glad we are on the same page."

He shrugged. " I'm glad we tried. I'll see you at work tomorrow." As I turned to unlock the door he added " Ginny, whoever it is that you can't stop thinking about is a lucky guy, He's an idiot for hurting you."

I gave a weak smile, not really caring enough to ask how he knew.

"Thanks, I appreciate that"

" Ginny come on you have to come! Please"

"Pansy, I can't, I don't want to see him."

" Don't you want to make him jealous?" I bit my lip, I did kinda.

" I guess. But he said that if would just be another death eater in his ranks. Nothing more."

" Well first off, You are only 17 and still have another year at school. Nobody will admit it but he doesn't accept many women into the ranks. I think we get the best of both worlds, all the invites to parties and none of the death defying missions."

" Seen and not heard" I whispered to myself, remembering the words from out fight.

" What?"

" He likes his women seen and not heard, It was one of the reason's we fought."

" Oh Ginny, I'm sorry. Come on, Draco will be your escort. It will be fun"

I thought about it for a moment, weighing my options, baiting Tom was probably not the wisest move, But I do think he has the propriety not to go after a women in the middle of a party. I'll just make sure I'm not left alone with him.

" Promise you will help me find a killer dress?" I asked Pansy, a wicked smile spread across her face.

" Happens to be my specialty."

Apparently new death eater initiation night was a big deal. Draco, Blaise, Crabbe and Goyle were all among the honorees. We were all invited to a fancy ball after the ceremony which we were not allowed to attend. Each honoree is assigned an escort for the evening. I wasn't sure what all the entailed but Draco had chosen me and Blaise took Pansy.

We only had a few days to plan and I had no idea where it was being help, what we did know was that it was going to be very fancy. Had to process in and lead the first dance. Perfect for Draco and I to make Tom jealous, I just needed to make sure that if Tom got mad he wouldn't take it out on Draco.

Pansy took me to a dress shop in Paris, the fanciest I had ever seen. We had to be let it by ringing a doorbell on the fancy gold doors. It led into a lobby with beautiful marble floors. Suddenly I felt under dressed, I had not idea places like this existed.

The was a receptionist desk in front o.f a lovely glass wall that had lights rotating different colors over the sheet of water that was flowing from the top into bath that had lilies floating in it. To the left of the water fall was a corridor that rounded a corner what was back there I could only imagine.

Pansy told the perfectly groomed woman behind the desk her last name.

" Of course Ms. Parkinson, Lynette is expecting you. I'll let her know you are here and in the mean time please help yourself to some light refreshments." She gestured her hand off to the right and for the first time I noticed a waiting area with a coffee bar, and an assortment of pastries and several leather seats. In the middle was a large glass circular coffee table with copies of fashion books to look through.

" We have a personal shopper?" I asked as we made our way over.

" Of course, the everyone does here." Pansy said as she poured herself a glass of water with cucumbers floating in it. How odd I thought and crinkled my nose shaking my head when she offered it to me.

" Where are the racks of dresses?" I asked

" Ginny, Places like this bring them out one by one based on what we tell them. We get to sit back and relax. I told you this would be fun. Honestly for a girl as pretty as you, I don't get why you don't like shopping." Before we could take our seats the clicking sound of heels on the marble floor caught our attention. Looking over I saw a woman who I assumed was Lynette approaching us.

She had on a ver simple knee length black dress, She reminded me of Audrey Hepburn in my favorite muggle movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's.

"Ms. parkinson, How lovely to see you again." She said in her thick French accent. She extended her arms grasping Pansy's they kissed on each cheek.

" Lynette dear you look beautiful as always, This is my friend Ginevra Weasley"

" Call me Ginny please" I said extending my hand. She grasped it with both of hers and kissed the air next to my cheeks the way I have only seen in movies.

" Ladies pleas follow me" She turned and we followed her around the corner. There were several sleek black doors with numbers on them. As we disappeared into number two she asked how we were enjoying Paris and the particulars of the event we were shopping for. I let Pansy answer, I was too in awe of my surroundings.

The room was painted a soft blue, It had no windows but that didn't seem to matter. It was perfectly lit. Along the side wall was a cream colored couch, next to it off to the side was a small desk with a gold lamp and a day planner on it. On the ceiling behind the couch were several hanging lights, all directed toward what I can only describe as a small run way.

She gestured to us to take a seat, as we did she positioned herself at the small desk. She started asking questions about dress types, length, color, style, neckline. Pansy seemed to answer all the questions for me, I didn't mind because I wasn't sure what I needed for such a fancy event. I wanted to look perfect, not just for Tom but because I was going to be in the procession.

After we briefed Lynette on what they needed she disappeared for a while behind a door that was situated at the right behind the run way. Some time later 5 beautiful girls paraded in on the runway in the most beautiful dresses I had ever seen.

The girls each stepped forward and twirled for us to see. One dress immediately had my attention. It was the most beautiful, sexy dress I had ever seen.

" Do you see anything you like?" Lynette asked.

" That gold one is amazing" I answered. The girl in the dress stepped forward on the runway.

" Annie is wearing a gold sequin halter with deep V neck. The sequins fade into a sheer skirt that show just a hint of those sexy legs. The back is open with a hook and eye closure. This dress will hug your body in all the right places. And of course no dress would be complete without matching gold stilettos." Lynette finished as Annie twirled one more time and stepped back in line. I was in love.

" Ginny, you have to try that on." Pansy chimed in.

" What size ?" Lynette asked.

" 2 please." I replied

" And for the shoes?"

" Oh uh 7."

" Of course, I will be right back." Five minutes later she returned with a garment bag, she went and hung it in a small dressing room in the corner I had not noticed before.

Excitedly I undress and unzip the bag. I let my fingers gently run across the expensive dress. Its impeccable, I almost don't want to touch it. Very carefully I take it off the hook and step in. it fits like a glove. I turn to look at the full length mirror. I hardly recognize myself. It shows just a hint of cleavage and leg. I turn to see the open back. I sit on the small chair and fasten the heels, they to fit perfectly.

" Ginny, Get your butt out here" I hear Pansy call. I roll my eyes as I emerge from the dressing room. Lynette gestures for me to step up on the runway.

" Its perfect, I love it." I saw

" Me too, Gin its amazing on you."

" Are you ladies sure you don't want to see a few more ?" Lynette asked.

" I really don't think we need to, Unless Pansy are you getting something ?" I asked.

" Oh no, I have mine already." She answered, I raised my eyebrow at her. When did she go shopping without me?

" I had to do something while you were at work, I'll show you when we get home."

Tom's POV

She forgot about that bracelet. Truth be told I did too. I think she got so used to wearing it she never gave it a second thought. I felt her fear, I knew she was in danger so how could I have stayed away.

I had to break it off with her. I cant have any weaknesses. I repeat to myself as I pace my study. I can't let anyone, let alone a woman have that much power over me. She could bring me down.

What was she doing in that club, the thought of her with another man drives me crazy. I pick up the glass of fire whiskey I was drinking, down the rest and smash it against the wall.

There is a knock at the door and I'm reminded that its time for the initiation. I'll be adding 10 young soldiers to my ranks. I don't know why I told Ginny she could be a death eater. I don't induct women, they are too emotional. Even If I did I would never mark her gorgeous skin and I would never put her in such danger.

I gather myself. Take another shot of whiskey and put on my dress robes. The initiation is about to begin. I hate formalities, any other occasion I would so blow off. I'll leave the ball early. I pocket my wand, take one more look at my hair before straitening my robes and heading to the banquet hall.

Ginny's POV

I'm standing arm and arm with Draco in the hall outside of the banquet hall. Pansy and Blaise are somewhere else in the line. Draco and I are first. I don't like this because I won't have anyone to watch. It easy, I tell myself just let Draco lead me onto the dance floor, Dance, then sit and eat. Piece of cake. Except I'm in the tallest heels I've ever worn. Although I must say, I do look great in this dress. Wait until Tom sees me.

" I could ravage you right here and now. Your driving me crazy in that dress." Draco whispered in my ear. Before I could respond the doors in front of us opened and Draco started walking. I was concentrating so hard on not stumbling I didn't let myself look around the large room until after the dance was over. Draco took my hand, kissed it and led me towards the table where the new death eaters we all taking their seats with their partners. Finally allowing myself to relax a bit I take in the exquisite decor of the room. Circular tables with white linen and golden place settings from the modest sized dance floor. Beautiful floral center pieces and topiaries add color to the romantically light room. At the far end is a small platform with an orchestra playing the most beautiful music. The ceiling, much like the great hall, is reflecting a cloudless night sky with candles floating overhead. I look towards the front of the room and see a table with only one empty seat. Already seated at the table is Lucius, his wife, Mr & Mrs Goyle, The Lestranges and another couple I don't know.

" The inner cirlce's table" Draco whispers to me, he must have seen me looking at it.

" He will be hear soon and fill the last empty seat." I nodded. I felt like I had a few butterflies in my stomach. As far as I know, he doesn't know I am here. I doubt he was trouble himself with something as trivial as a guest list. Suddenly the doors opened again and all the death eaters stood. Tom entered without much ceremony. He took his seat and that was it. He never even looked my way.

" So can you tell us about the ceremony?" I asked.

" No, We aren't really allowed. It wasn't that great though. Pretty short." Blaise answered. Soon the food appeared on the table, which was delicious of course. Aware that I was under scrutiny, I ate as delicately as possible, determined not to soil my dress. I didn't know if they knew of my involvement with Tom, but a Weasley at a death eater party always draws attention.

Once the dancing started Draco and I hardly left the dance floor. I danced with Blaise and a few others as well. At one point as I was twirled around by Draco my eyes caught Tom's. It was unmistakable, His eyes burned with intensity, His jaw set tightly. If looks could kill I'm not sure if I'd be dead of if Draco was the target of his sinister glare.

I made sure to be extra flirty when I knew that he was looking. I leaned in close when Draco talked, making sure my dress dipped to show more cleavage. Pansy and Blaise had snuck off about an hour after dinner and we hadn't seen them since. I was getting a little bored so I wandered over to the chocolate fountain and dipped a few strawberries. It was delectable. The sweet warm chocolate mixed with the fresh strawberries in my mouth.

" Ginevra" I knew who it was before I turned. I felt his fingers gently graze down my exposed back. It sent a shiver down my spine. I missed his touch. I dipped one more strawberry before I turned around, knowing that taking a bite would draw attention to my mouth and drive him crazy.

"Tom" I said acknowledging his presents.

"I'm surprised to see you here"

" Are you? Draco invited me, I wasn't aware that I had to clear it with you."

" You don't, Anymore I suppose" He was trying to act cool but I could see it in his eyes he were burning with angry, jealousy and what she thought was desire.

" How did you know I needed help at the club?" He didn't answer, he just picked up my left wrist and pointed to the bracelet.

" I completely forgot. Can you please take it off?" I felt the burning in the back of my throat, I needed to get away from him so I don't cry.

" No"

" Tom, please" I whispered " I can't do this. I need you to take it off" My voice was barely a whisper, its all I could manage.

" I need to know you are safe." He still had my wrist in his hand, He was running his thumb up and down my skin.

" You don't have that right anymore. You ended this, not me. Take it off" My voice was getting stronger as the anger welled up inside me.

" Let talk outside." Tom said, I knew better, I knew I shouldn't go with him. But I really wanted to know what he had to say, I missed him.

He took my hand and led me out the banquet hall doors it was littered with death eaters with drinks in their hands smoking cigarettes. They all looked up as we entered, rather then ordering them to leave Tom pulled me into a small room off the hall way. Looking around I saw it was a coat room, Obviously hadn't been used to awhile. There were stacks of extra chairs and folded up tables. We had to squeeze into the available space between an old piano and a drink cart.

" What Tom, What can you possibly say you made your feelings perfectly clear already."

" Why can't I make you understand?"

" Because I won't settle. I do understand your position, you don't want a wife, kids, normal job. We can't have a happy home. I get that but you need to understand that I want that and I won't compromise, I shouldn't have too. My feelings matter too."

"I don't know how to give you what you want." He growled. I know I was making him mad, He is not used to people not giving in to his way.

" I know that, Which is why this is over. You need to let me get over you, you need to let me move on." I turned to leave but he grabbed my wrist and pulled me close to him in a passionate kiss. Giving in for a second too long, when I felt his had slide down my back I was brought back to reality and pushed at his chest.

"Tom stop."

" Ok, Ok I just...I just can't give you what you need. That kills me. I can't stand to see you with another man. Especially that filthy muggle coffee server." His hand was still holding onto my wrist so tight but I hardly noticed.

" Well get used to it, I'll see whomever I want to. Now let me go." He threw my arm back at me and I stumbled back. I can't say I was surprised, I know how moody he is.I turned and left, He didn't stop me.

Two days later I walked to work, Still trying to shake off what happened at the ball. As I turned the corner of the street the cafe was on I heard allot of commotion. The sidewalk was blocked off. As I pushed my way closer through the crowd I saw that the cafe was engulfed in flames. Off to the side talking to police was Janelle, tears were streaming down her face. I called out to her. She must of told the officer who I was because he gestured for me to come through the police tape.

"What happened?"

"We don't know." She sobbed pulling me into a hug.

"Did everyone get out ?" She pulled back from me so she could see my face.

" We can't find Andre." She whispered. " He was in the back office when the alarms went off we were just about to open for the day"

"They will find him, He will be fine. Do they know what happened?" I asked turning to the officer.

"They think it was arson."

"Why do they think that" I asked The officer pointed to the brick siding of the cafe that had not yet been completely burned.

" Somebody tagged it. We see this allot with gangs. Obviously we will launch a full investigation once the fire is put out." I turned to look at where the officer had pointed. The mark on the side of the building was clear to only me. It was the dark mark.