Author's Note:
Just a reminder, the following three chapters will have some time jumps from here on out.
The 10 epilogues that will follow will especially be full of time jumps as they will essentially be mini novellas encompassing years of characters' lives (some years with more than others).
Thank you for over 800 reviews on ff and over 400 on Ao3. It means more to me than I can possibly express.
Reviews and Comments: To corneliastreet_28: Thank you! It did close a lot of storylines which was important to finish up. Thank you! To griffin_d00r1: Yes, everyone is alive (well, except for McGonagall). Thank you very much! To AQuickRead91: Thank you! To CorbanD17: Thank you very much! As to Crouch's death, I liked it being painful in a way he deserved and it being completely his own fault. Thank you! To marauders_mowopapr: Cheating and checking the comments? Aw man, lol. Way to spoil! I love the screaming in cheer for Remus getting revenge and yes, I did think it was poetic justice for Crouch to basically castrate himself upon his death. Thank you very much! To Joycefoes3: Thank you! Yes, Remus and Tonks are alive and Harry has all of his parents. Thank you! To flowermage: Yes, I think a lot of people suspected McGonagall's plan to sacrifice herself. I'm glad you didn't think me too cruel in the end since Remus and Tonks are very much alive. Thank you! To Arabella_SG: Thank you! I love knowing I made you mentally scream out loud from different emotional reactions. No, I couldn't let Remus and Tonks die. I needed some happiness. Yes, the war is officially over and the big plot lines have been closed up. Thank you! To HeyitsLoz: Happy to have you on the edge of your seat, but no, sorry, I will not be writing a chapter of the afterlife. Thank you! To Mrs_Norway: Yes, Remus and Sirius both survived the war (more or less). I agree, Bellatrix and Crouch being killed was the safest option for all. Yes, a proposal is coming soon. Thank you! To hermionejune: They all definitely deserve to be happy. Thank you!
To MotherofKatie: I do think Crouch and Bellatrix being killed was the right ending, thank you. As to McGonagall, she will be missed. Thank you! To Maari: I can't help if it you cried because the Lupins are safe lol. Thank you very much though. I love knowing I can bring such strong emotions to my readers. Thank you! To katelyn453: Thank you! To kyciona: Yes, the war is over! Thank you! Umbitch is serving the rest of her life in Azkaban Crypt, but yes, if Remus becomes Headmaster she would be livid! Thank you! To Marauder0176: You're welcome! Thanks for reading and reviewing! To Spike's Number One Pet: You will see some sprinkles of the future in the epilogues. I already know many people will love them and others might not, but for now that is all I have planned for the future. Thank you! To akshutalankar: Yes, more to read! Ha, I don't plan on torturing anyone in the future so I think you're safe lol. Yes, Crouch dying him impaling himself crotch first lol. Thank you! To Read and Fly: You're welcome. We will see a bit more of the reunion with Zee, yes. Thank you very much! To Tmrpotterhead250: Ha, yes the w(b)itch is dead lol. But most importantly, Crouch haha. Yes, Remus and Tonks are both alive and well, thanks for liking the jokes about being stabbed but to be fair it wasn't like Remus planned it lol. Thank you for finding the death of Crouch and Bellatrix as satisfying as I felt writing it. Justice. Thank you very much! To Undead Gothic Princess: Thank you very much for saying I have "truly outdone" myself "with this instalment." Sebastian was doing what he could to help Dora and Ginny and he did think Remus had passed or was so badly injured he might not make it (which he was). Yes, I felt it was important for Sirius and Zee to just talk and reconnect with each other. Thank you very much for loving their little TLC moment. Thank you! To Finnspa23: I did think it was the best outcome. Thank you!
To Cassiopeia Anastasia Black: Thank you! I read those three perfects exactly how you wrote it lol. Thank you! To darkhk: There will be 41 chapters of TTTC, but only 3 more to finish off the story and the last 10 chapters will be epilogues. Thank you! To Zarathos Morgenstern: Yes, Teddy is still alive and well. Thank you! To Nico Corfield: Thank you for reading my world since ASC, that's so nice to hear. Ha, I had you swearing like a sailor made me laugh. Don't worry, Ginny and Remus are safe. Thank you! To stringnut: Thank you for finding the whole "fight that ended Crouch and Bellatrix" fantastic. It was definitely a gory, terrifying mess, but I agree, it was needed. They felt no remorse and ideally putting them in prison was just not the right move. Thank you! To anjagpotter: Ha, not waiting to read until I uploaded the next one is fair. I'm happy to know you felt it was worth the wait. Minerva is a goddess (her name literally) and it was hard to let her go, but it was the best choice. Thank you! To scrappy8: Thank you! Yes, everyone is okay. Thank you. To OH MIA MYA: Waiting patiently impatiently is how I usually feel lol. Thank you! To Sunny JS: Thank you for finding this chapter such a banger! Lupin is a warrior. Thank you! To ladyinwaiting2005: Thank you for saying it's the best chapter ever — killing off Crouch and Bellatrix was incredibly satisfying. Thank you! To Nightwing2013: It kind of was the start of the conclusion so I'm glad you think it felt like that. No, it wasn't as graphic as the death of Crouch Senior (thankfully). Thanks for loving my Remus and Harry banter and ha, happy to know a table wasn't flipped. Thank you!
To Sets: Oh my god, it was still three deaths! I really wish I could have told you I planned that, but I didn't. At all. LOL. Ron does like to pick on Harry and telling him his pacing is making him dizzy is a very Ron statement lol. Thank you! To MrsHJSnape: Thank you! Ha, happy to know you loved how Crouch went out (I certainly did). Nope, Remus and Tonks are safe. Yes, the HEA is coming. No evil plot twists (at least not until the epilogues) LOL. Hinny do get get engaged very soon and ha, I love all of your reasons! Thanks again for 4 mini reviews, you're awesome! You definitely deserve a whole paragraph almost dedicated to you lol. Thank you! To minerdude: Yes, all four of Harry's parents (as we are including Tonks) survived (more or less). We will miss McGonagall, but it was a very brave decision by her. Thank you! To Roselin24: Thank you so much for saying you think A Second Chance is "one of the best stories you've ever read." Thank you for loving the details and all that came with it. Thank you so much! To Hanacide: I know, McGonagall dying to save Sirius and Zee was heartbreaking, but I do agree, having her end her life to save them "made it even more heart wrenching but also kind of better." I fully support you feeling like an emotional mess. Ha, I just laughed out loud at this: "I have a feeling you're giving us a little moment of peace and joy and then something else is going to kool aid man through the wall." Thank you! I'm really not, though. The story is wrapping up and there will be a HEA. Promise. Thank you!
To mischiefxmanaged0802: Yes, I do think it really shows how much McGonagall loved Sirius. She chose him over everything, a mother's love. Thank you very much! To charmshield7: Yes, the Lupins are okay and so are Sirius and Zee. Ha, yes I "finally got those fuckers killed." Happy to oblige. Thank you! To ellyann13: We have waited a long time for those two to get justice, thank you for finding it "poetic in a very ugly way." It was what I was going for. Yes, Rolf is heading to New Zealand and Luna is heading there as well. We will have to see. Thank you! To Rozmeen: It is sad about McGonagall, but thank you! To I'm a Ravenclaw: Thank you so much for saying that the way I write makes you feel like you're watching a movie, that is so incredible to hear! My posting time depends on my work schedule. I post on Fridays (generally) either before or after my shift depending on whether I start early or late. Thank you! To zorica: Thank you very much! Yes, it was a sacrifice indeed and a truly selfless one on Minerva's part. Thank you! To harstonks: LMAO! You're "fucking finally" made me laugh much harder than it should have. Happy to help. Thank you! To TW: Thank you! To alix33: Sorry to make you cry, but it was the best choice for McGonagall. Thank you very much! To todivya: You are very welcome for giving you a happy ending. Thank you very much! To Quill will 1981: It was intense and yes, Zahira is back! McGonagall has played a vital role since the very beginning (as seen in The First Time Around) and later in A Second Chance and finally in Third Times the Charm. Thank you for loving how I portrayed her as a mentor and mother to her students despite her being strict and no-nonsense, she still cared a great deal. Thank you!
To Guest: No, I think relief is a normal feeling. We are all happy Crouch and Bellatrix are dead! It is the ending the characters all deserved. Thank you very much! To Bludgerknight: Thank you very much! To Chelsea Greenwell: You're welcome for not making you wait to find out if Remus survived. I won't lie, originally the chapter ended a bit sooner lol. But I added the first two scenes from chapter 28 to it so that it would have some more closure. We were all waiting for Crouch and Bellatrix to die, thank you! Thank you very much! To Potterhead29: Thank you! I'm both nervous and excited to post the epilogues so I really hope people like where it goes. I'm not really a huge writer of the Marauder era, which is why I wrote The First Time Around as a prequel to ASC but it was more moments in time of the Marauders. But I also did write Crazy Little Thing Called Love almost a decade ago which loosely ties into my Beginning Series. Thank you very much! To DeadFish37: Thank you for saying it was "satisfying poetic." Thank you very much! To AllTheGoodOnesAreTaken: Welcome back! Thank you so much for coming back to my world and finishing ASC and starting TTTC. I'm so happy to hear you love Theo and Bas (me too). I'm sorry I made you cry, but also biggest compliment. No, Sirius and Zee won't be having any more kids, just Mina, Leo, and of course Harry. But they will be grandparents! We will see more of our favourite couples in the epilogues from chapters 31-41 which will finish off TTTC and my Kismet Trilogy. Thank you very much! To bandhoez9194: Sorry to make you feel like your dying at 4:30AM lol, but thank you! Happy to keep you on such a rollercoaster of emotions. Minnie did give her life in a way that she would want to go and is definitely the best woman ever. Thank you so much for being "utterly in love with this story." ❤️ .
To EnigmaticEmperor: Yes, with a mother's love, this story did some full circle. Thank you! Yes, Ginny's awesome Quidditch reflexes help save Tonks. Crouch is most definitely one sick SOB who I personally think gets what he deserves. It was VERY satisfying to write so I'm glad you liked it. Remus has been through some shit and this is the first time in his life where he truly knows it's over. Thank you very much! To Nuno Neves: It was a bit of a rollercoaster. It was satisfying to have Remus kill Bellatrix in a painful and bloody way that totally deserved. Tonks and Crouch fighting to protect Teddy was something I wanted and yes, "cutting his thing and the painful way he died was instant karma that satisfying." Harry and Ginny definitely immediately feel better when they are together. Thank you very much! To tim2604: Nope, I didn't kill Tonks (you've only been begging me since the beginning not too lol). Ginny was definitely a godsend, protecting both Teddy and Tonks. Good riddance to Bellatrix and Crouch indeed. Ha, I'm glad you couldn't stop laughing "while picturing Crouch running with bloody balls and handcuffed like a headless chicken before impaling himself." Happy to oblige. Thank you very much! To TatiRena: I like keeping people on edge lol. Thank you! To SiriusLover93: Yes, their death were quite painful. Thank you very much! To Ian: Thank you! I suppose it was a bit bittersweet and don't worry there are 3 more chapters left of the story before 10 epilogues to follow. Thank you!
To vampireprincess141: Thank you! Yes, finally Barty Crouch Jr and Bellatrix are dead! All of the characters we know and love are alive and well (minus McGonaglal of course), but yes, Remus pulled through. Thank you very much! I hope you enjoy where this story goes. Thank you! To Architect of Light 2: Crouch 100% deserved everything he got and more. He was a disgusting human and yes, having him impale himself was very satisfying to write so thank you for also appreciating it. Thank you! To Ellieoryan7447: A review! It feels like a Christmas miracle (in September) lol. Thank you! Yes, Harry being reunited with Sirius and Zee is the sweetest thing ever. Ginny definitely deserves a badass appreciation moment. No, I didn't kill Remus. I did remember your threats (along with a few others) haha. No, I did go back and forth on killing Remus and/or Tonks but in the end, I decided to let the live. They deserve a second chance after all. Having Sirius and Zee together feels a little surreal to write so I understand. I love Harry and Remus' relationship too. Thank you very much!
My posting schedule: Weekly.
As always, thank you very much for reading and please, please review!
Your reviews give me life! They give me inspiration! And they make me want to keep writing for more than just myself! Thank you for all of your continued support!
CHAPTER TWENTY-EIGHT:
The One With the Poem
The next morning brought about the first anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts. Remus was able to attend, albeit he had to stay sitting as Minister Jericho Jones gave a fitting speech detailing the end of the war. He spoke about how the last of the Death Eaters had finally been captured and killed only two days prior and they had a moment of silence for those they'd lost.
Harry got up to give a small speech as well, thanking everyone for coming, and promising to autograph every copy of the Battle of Hogwarts that was purchased by someone. Colin sold out and all of the proceeds of the photographic book went to the families who were struggling with loss.
Harry and Ginny were planning on spending the evening at the Burrow in a family dinner to honour Arthur. This gave Remus the opportunity to finally catch up with Sirius and Zee. He was pleased when he finally arrived home and found Sirius and Zee already there with Mina and Leo in the living room of his and Tonks' little cottage.
"Zee," Remus said, his smile widening at the sight of her. "We've missed you, dear."
Zee moved across the room, waiting until he was seated before she bent down to kiss his cheek. "It's nice to be missed." She moved back over to where Sirius was and took his hand in hers. "And I have this tosser back."
"Oi!" Sirius exclaimed.
Zee grinned foolishly at him. "It's a great bonus. Yes, we're both back."
"Yeah, we're both back," Sirius repeated before he tugged her close and kissed her passionately.
Tonks took a seat next to Remus and leaned her head on his shoulder. "It's about time something goes right, isn't it?"
Remus took her hand in his and gently kissed her knuckles. "Yeah, it is."
Sirius and Zee sat down as Mina and Leo played on the floor with Teddy. Sirius slipped his arm around Zee's shoulders and grinned at Remus from across the room.
"Well, Moony, here we are with our families after all this time; our kids playing together on the floor. It feels pretty bloody great, doesn't it?"
"Bloody brilliant, Padfoot," Remus said. "If Harry were here as well, it would be perfect."
"Agreed," Zee said with a smile as Mina crawled up into her lap. "Next time, he and Ginny will be here too, but tonight they belong at the Burrow to remember Arthur."
"And pretty soon Harry and Ginny's kids will be playing with ours," Remus said.
Sirius' eyebrows rose. "Well, not that soon. I'm much too young and good looking to be a grandfather just yet. Moony, you look more that part. Look at you, sporting all of that silver in your hair."
Tonks grinned. "He's my silver wolf."
"I'm not… I still have some of my own hair colour. I'm not that grey!" Remus insisted.
Sirius winked at his cousin. "Fifty Galleons he's completely grey by Christmas."
"Deal," Tonks said.
Remus sighed. "Yeah, feels like things are back to normal."
Zee smiled warmly at them and bent down to pull Leo up into her lap, kissing his cheek. "It's really good to be home."
And Remus thought no truer words had been spoken.
~ TTTC ~
While Remus, Tonks, Sirius, and Zee were catching up, Harry and Ginny made their way to the Burrow after the ceremony at Hogwarts. They'd made plans with all of Ginny's brothers to have a private ceremony to honour Arthur and present Molly with the stone and little garden that Neville had helped them plant. However, those plans were a bit interrupted when Fleur went into labour early that morning. Molly was with them, which meant she missed the ceremony at Hogwarts entirely, so Harry and Ginny took over the cooking at the Burrow afterwards in order to surprise her.
Ron, Hermione, Percy, Audrey, Fred, Fiadh, Finley, Felicity, George, Angelina, Charlie, and Aydin were over as well and it turned into lots of food and chatter as the family got together to honour Arthur and talk about the ceremony they'd just attended at Hogwarts. It was almost six o'clock that evening when Molly finally returned to the Burrow to announce that Bill and Fleur were the proud parents of a beautiful baby girl whom they'd named Victoire Gabrielle Weasley.
"French for victory," Percy said, lifting an eyebrow. "Seems fitting since she was born today."
"Agreed," Ginny said.
Then they all took turns as a couple, Apparating to Shell Cottage to meet Victoire and to check on Bill and Fleur. The baby looked very much like Fleur with her big blue eyes and her hair was so blonde it was almost white, but Bill swore it had a bit of a reddish hue to it.
"She's beautiful," Ginny said, holding the baby in her arms. "Hi, Victoire. I'm your Auntie Ginny and this is your Uncle Harry."
Bill was sitting on the side of his wife's bed, a smile never leaving his face. "She's perfect, isn't she?"
"Absolutely," Harry agreed, taking the baby when Ginny passed her over. "Hi, sweet girl."
Ginny placed a hand over her heart at his words and Fleur chuckled. "Oui, I see it."
"See what?" Harry asked, his eyes meeting Fleur's.
"I theenk Ginny is wondering if her ovaries will explode," Fleur teased.
Harry looked flummoxed. "Why?"
Bill clasped his hand on Harry's shoulder. "Don't ask, mate. Something about men holding babies."
"Well, one man," Ginny corrected, her cheeks heating.
They talked to Bill and Fleur a bit longer and Harry filled them in on what had happened on Friday concerning the Death Eaters at Hogwarts as well as Sirius and Zee. When he finished, Bill was shaking his head.
"Hell of an anniversary. I can't say I'm upset those two disgusting humans are dead. If you ask, that was justice. They got what they deserved. I'm happy to know that Remus and Tonks are both all right. You deserve this, Harry," Bill said, keeping his gaze on him. "Don't think you don't. Sirius and Zee being back on top of it — it's incredible."
"It is," Harry agreed.
"And Remus is all right?" Fleur asked, cradling Victoire to her breast.
"Yes," Harry assured her. "Thanks for asking. Tonks took him home after the ceremony. He's still a bit sore and needs to rest, but he's home and he's alive. Uncle Sirius told me that he and Zee were going over for dinner to spend the evening with him and to catch up. It's… I don't even know. It's a lot."
"Yeah, I bet they have a lot to catch him up on." Bill said. "Just wow. I'm really happy for you, Harry."
"Thanks," Harry said, his own smile catching. "And congrats on this beautiful girl. Truly, you're going to be great parents."
Bill and Fleur beamed at him before turning to coo over their daughter again and Harry and Ginny said their goodbyes and returned to the Burrow. Once all of the boys had gone to Shell Cottage to meet their new niece, only then did they finally present Molly with her gift.
Molly cried when she stood in front of the memorial stone and garden that they had put together for Arthur. "Oh, it's beautiful! I love it," she assured them, smelling the flowers and tracing the letters in the stone. "It's perfect!"
Ginny made a plate up of dinner for her mum and they all finally sat down to eat the dinner that Harry and Ginny had prepared amidst lots of chatter and laughter. Harry and Ron finally filled everyone in on what had really happened with Sirius, Zee, and McGonagall and Ginny filled them in on what had happened at Hogwarts. Everyone congratulated Harry, marvelling at how lucky he was to have gained both Sirius and Zee back into his life. But it wasn't until Molly pulled him aside later that he really took in the words.
Molly cupped his cheeks in her hands, a soft smile on her lips and tears in her eyes. "I would give anything to have Arthur here with us today. To see all of you living your best lives and being happy. I know that can't be. I know that these last six months, you have suffered undeniable pain and agony because of what those Death Eaters have done to you, dear. It's a gift that Sirius and Zee were saved, Harry. A gift. Don't think of it as anything more than that."
Then she kissed his cheek.
"Now, when are you going to ask my daughter to marry you?"
"Mum!" Ginny exclaimed, coming up behind her. "You can't just ask him that!"
"Yes, I can," Molly said with a smile. "He loves you. You love him. You're moving in together next month. It seems like the next logical step, doesn't it?"
Ginny rolled her eyes as her mum walked away. "Sorry about her. Ignore that."
Harry chuckled and pulled her close, pressing his lips to her temple. "Are you saying that you don't want me to ask you?"
"I'm saying that my mum has no right to ask you that," Ginny said, blushing.
Harry gripped her chin and tilted her head back to kiss her. "I love you."
"I know," Ginny said, her grin catching. "Now come on, let's dig out that treacle tart."
"Wow, wow, wow," Harry exclaimed, holding his hands out in protest. "When you baked that earlier you never said that we had to share it!"
Ginny rolled her eyes. "Sharing is caring, Harry."
He sighed and followed her to get the treacle tart they'd made. When they served it to everyone, Fred wiggled his eyebrows at Harry.
"Sharing with us, Harry? You're too kind."
"Ginny's making me," Harry said. "Just to be clear."
Charlie snorted. "Yeah, you really look like you're under duress, Potter."
Ron laughed. "Ginny could ask him to put on a dress and then go outside and do a jig with a pumpkin on his head and he would do it without question."
Hermione turned to look at her boyfriend. "Oh really? Well, Ron, why don't you go get me another drink?"
Ron was out of his seat in seconds and when his brothers all started laughing, he scowled. "It's not the same!"
Hermione smirked and winked at Ron. "Love you, too."
Harry dug into his treacle tart with a big smile on his face and thought that this was how his life was supposed to be.
The next two weeks were spent closing out the cases of Bellatrix Lestrange, Bartemius Crouch Junior, and Belladonna Brambilla. Harry and Higgins worked together to file the paperwork, crossing the t's and dotting the i's for everything to be complete. They took statements from Sirius and Zee as well as Donal and Tiernan about what had transpired in the Department of Mysteries. Then Tiernan took the key McGonagall had used to sacrifice herself and it was melted down into nothing.
Ginny was put on the sidelines for the next seven matches due to her knee injury, allowing Holyhead's reserve Chasers Diana Harkness, Valmai Morgan, and Bethany Snow to take turns playing in her place. When she returned, the next eight matches with Ginny back in the game brought them to the end of season and unfortunately, Holyhead did not make it to the finals. As disappointed as Ginny was by this news, she was also a bit pleased for the break and a chance to study for her upcoming NEWTs.
Harry spent time talking to Auden McCraight and doing what he could to get his mind straight with everything that had happened. Despite the shock of preparing to watch Sirius die again in order to save Zee and instead losing McGonagall while at the same time finding Remus close to death, Harry was dealing pretty well. McCraight attributed this to having his family back, talking to them about it, and speaking about his feelings. McCraight claimed that nothing would help him heal better than to spend time with them and to talk to them. Harry whole heartedly agreed and he found with each passing day, the guilt he'd felt over McGonagall choosing to sacrifice herself in order for Sirius and Zee to live and the guilt over Zee being captured was slowly waning.
When Zee pulled him tightly into her arms that first night he'd gone home to Black Cottage, he rested his chin on top of her curls and he sighed. She smelt like home and just the feel of her holding him, the vanilla and cinnamon spice of her soap made him feel content and safe in a way he couldn't put into words.
"I missed you so much," he whispered.
"I missed you, too," Zee said, holding him tighter. "Now, how many times do I have to tell you it's not your fault before you believe me?"
"At least once more," Harry said, making her smile against his chest.
"It's not your fault, sweetie. None of it. Do you understand me?"
"Yes," Harry replied.
"Good," Zee said, squeezing him tightly once more before she stepped back. "Now, come sit by me and tell me everything I've missed."
And he did. When Zee and Sirius held hands and smiled at each other, Harry couldn't help but smile back. He had his parents back and it was all truly and finally over.
As for McGonagall, no one knew the truth of what had happened to her outside of those Harry had shared the story with. Between Sirius and Zee both returning from the dead, adding in McGonagall's sacrifice was a story too big and too dangerous to share with the world. Instead, Aurors had spun the story that McGonagall had been killed saving Sirius and Zee from Crouch and Lestrange while Remus had been gravely injured in the attack. Since the battle in Remus' classroom had been private, it was easy enough for people to believe that the headmistress had gone to help.
McGonagall's funeral was held a week after the anniversary of the Battle of Hogwarts and like Dumbledore, it was at Hogwarts so that everyone could attend. Her ashes were to be scattered on the Hogwarts grounds and Sirius gave her eulogy, talking about how she had changed his life and how her death had saved it. There wasn't a dry eye in the house. Of course it didn't help that halfway through the eulogy, Sirius broke down.
Harry and Remus both stood up to stand on either side of him and Sirius gave them a grateful look before he continued.
"Minnie was the mum I never had. She mentored me and of course she gave me a detention. A lot of detention," he added, making a few people chuckle. "But when I left Hogwarts, I knew that she had helped make me into the man I wanted to be. I always went to her for advice. I always kept her updated on what was happening with my life and when I was arrested in 1981 for a crime that I didn't commit, she never once wavered in her belief in my innocence. It was because of Minerva McGonagall that I was finally given a fair trial. It was because of Minerva McGonagall that I was able to make amends with my best friend. It was because of Minerva McGonagall that I was able to claim custody of my godson and raise him as I wish James and Lily Potter had been able to do. It was because of Minerva McGonagall that I took my rightful place in the Wizengamot and was able to help make positive changes in our country. It was because of Minerva McGonagall that I became a member of the Hogwarts Board of Governors and helped convince Remus Lupin to become a professor. And it was because of Minerva McGonagall that I truly realized I had worth. She was unforgettable. She was smart and witty. She was kind and strict. And most of all, she didn't take shit from anyone."
A few more chuckles erupted and Sirius smiled as he looked out at the crowd.
"Minerva McGonagall will be missed here at Hogwarts by everyone who knew her and I can say with absolute certainty that Hogwarts will never be the same without her presence. But she died protecting the woman I love," Sirius said, his eyes finding Zee's in the crowd. "She gave her life to protect me and for Zee… Minnie, Mum… I will love you — always. Thank you for everything."
Sirius pressed his fingers to his lips and then held his fingers out towards her urn with tears running down his cheeks.
"Thank you," he whispered again so that only Remus and Harry could hear him.
After the funeral, Sirius and Zee stayed to host a small wake at Hogwarts in McGonagall's honour. Harry found himself hearing stories about her that he'd never known from old colleagues who worked with her in the Department of Magical Law Enforcement, to some of her old students. It was a long, emotional day and truly heartwarming to know that she'd touched so many lives.
Nyx grieved her mistress' death as well and followed Sirius around, refusing to let him out of her sight. It wasn't until Hagrid agreed to keep Nyx with him and roam the school that was her home, did Sirius agree that it was a good plan for the tiger/zouwu. Nyx adored Hagrid and seemed happy with this arrangement, though she howled when Sirius spread her ashes out across the Black Lake.
McGonagall's last will and testament was read aloud and she'd left all of her possessions to families in need and touching letters to Sirius, Harry, Zee, Mina, and Leo telling them of why she chose to do what she did and how much they all meant to her.
Ginny held Harry's hand and read his letter out loud to him as they sat cuddled in the egg chair on his old balcony off of his old bedroom in Black Cottage.
Dear Harry,
I was given the incredible honour of watching you grow up. I first met you once as a baby when you were around three months old. James and Lily were proudly showing you off at an Order meeting, but due to the nature of the war, you were hidden away for safety. It was I who watched Dumbledore place you on the doorstep of the Dursleys and despite my insistence that they were the worst sort of Muggles imaginable, there was nowhere else safe for you to go at the time. Knowing then what I do now, I wish I had fought him harder on it; forced Remus to take you in despite his fears. Instead, I turned my attention towards Sirius.
I worked hard every day to try to get the Ministry of Magic to see reason, to give him a fair trial; to let me see him. Even his visitation had been severely restricted due to the nature of the crime he had been accused of. It took me years, but it was worth it. Then, when he took you home, it was almost as if it had been kismet; not only for my hard work at getting him acquitted, but for you to have the home you deserved. It took you a while to settle in and when I finally got the chance to come meet you again, "your absolutely not hilarious godfather" put you up to asking me if I use a litter box. I will never forget that day. You were adorable and Sirius (as always) was an arse.
I've watched you fall in love with Sirius and Remus, be loved by them, and find the family you were meant to have. I helped you with your first Quidditch knowledge, stood by you when things were tough, and watched you become an incredibly strong and loving man who has saved the world. It has been an honour to be part of your life as a surrogate auntie as much as your teacher. I know that you're in shock over what happened, but I chose this for you, Harry. For Sirius. For Zahira. For Mina. For Leo. You and Sirius have given me a family that I never expected to have and for that, making sure you keep yours is the least that I can do in return.
Thank you for everything, Harry.
Thank you for letting me be part of your life and for loving me as I have you.
Love,
Auntie Minnie
Ginny held him when she finished and he kissed her brow, grateful to have her in his arms when he needed her most. He looked down at the letter and was grateful that McGonagall had given him back both Sirius and Zee.
McCraight spoke to him about McGonagall's funeral and how he was coping and was pleased to see that despite the grief Harry was feeling, he wasn't blaming himself for any of it. He was healing emotionally and having someone to talk to along with having Sirius and Zee back, was more than he even knew he needed. For the first time in his life, he'd learned to actually not hold the blame on himself. It was hard not to take it on, but with Ginny's and Zee's assistance, he was doing it.
"Harry, I'm very impressed with how well you seem to be coping," McCraight told him. "I can see that you're grieving of course and naturally, you're reacting to so much of what happened, but I can see so much improvement. You open up when you come here. You've stopped bottling everything up inside. You're open to healing and it shows."
Harry felt that McCraight was right because he was even sleeping better at night. Bad dreams happened almost rarely in comparison to the almost every night that had followed in the last days before he was convinced he was going to lose both Sirius and Zee and when he woke up in the mornings, he was smiling; feeling happy about his life, about his work, and about everything.
He told Sirius and Zee as much as they spoke about McGonagall and shared the letters she'd written them knowing what she was about to do. He looked down at the one for Sirius, a soft smile on his face as he read in McGonagall's voice and saw her soft smile and stern expression in his mind's eye:
Dear Sirius,
I never expected you.
In all of my years teaching there were many students whom I will always remember. Ones who made me laugh, made me cry, and others who I was quite glad to see the back of, but never did I imagine I would find one whom I would come to love as if he was my own flesh and blood. You always had something there that made me want to protect you and scold you in equal measure. You took the time to check in with me and when I learned about your home environment, I wish I could have done more.
Knowing you had the Potters was one of the only things that kept me from not trying to extract you from that home, but still I should have done more to help. Not only did I watch you meet your friends, but I was given the chance to watch you rise up from a family that had broken you down and turn it into a confidence that made you the man you are today.
Sirius, you're the son I never knew I wanted; the child of my heart. When you went to Azkaban, I knew it couldn't have been true and I did everything in my power to get you a fair trial, to prove to the world that the man I knew, would never have done what they were saying you did. I was right. Then you found Harry and made amends with Remus and your new family took root.
Watching you fall in love with Zahira was one of the most rewarding things I've ever witnessed. The denial, the stubbornness, and the way you constantly spoke about her while insisting that you weren't speaking about her. When I finally met her, it all made sense. She's your other half. I knew it from the very moment I met her and when I saw the way she adored Harry, well, it made me like her even more.
I know that you don't want to forgive me for doing this; that you're going to insist on how it should have been you and all of that nonsense, but you deserve to have the life you dreamed of, Sirius Black.
Be the father you deserve to be to Mina and Leo.
Marry the woman of your dreams.
Watch Harry start his own family.
Live.
And remember, a mother's love is the truest sacrifice one can make. It leaves a mark on your very soul, in your skin. Zee will carry that protection with her for the rest of her life and if there's nothing else I could give you in life, Sirius, it's the woman you love and the family you want and deserve: Protected.
You gave me a family. You gave me the chance to be a mother. Let me give the same chance to the son I love with all of my heart.
Love,
Minerva McGonagall
Mum
McGonagall wrote a similar one for Zee asking her to take care of Sirius and their three children as she knew she would and Zee had wrapped her arms around Harry and kissed his cheek a dozen times after reading it.
"I get it," Harry insisted, scrambling away. "You love me. Jeesh."
Zee stole another kiss on his temple, a small smile on her lips. "It's my job to smother you in embarrassment."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Yeah, whatever."
But he pulled her back into his arms and held her close, clinging to her anyway; so grateful to have her back in his life once and for all.
Harry especially realized how surreal everything was when barely a week after McGonagall's funeral, he arrived at Black Cottage with Ginny to have dinner with Sirius and Zee and discovered that they were getting married that day.
"Wait," Harry said when Sirius told him. "Like as in today?"
"Like as in ten minutes from now," Sirius corrected. "Why do you think we said we needed you both here. There are outfits for you and Ginny upstairs in your old room. Go up and change. I need my Best Man up there with me."
"Me?" Harry gawked in surprise.
Sirius pulled him close into a warm hug. "Yeah, you. I told Moony he's been bumped to second place."
Harry's grin widened. "Really?"
"Get dressed, Prongslet. I'm not going to be late for my own bloody wedding."
Fifteen minutes later, Harry was standing near the gazebo in the garden with Sirius and Remus as Tonks and Ginny stood on the other side. Harry's outfit was the same as Remus' with silver dress trousers, a black dress shirt that he had folded to his elbows and the button open at his neck. He wore no tie to keep it simple and Sirius winked at him when he came down. Sirius himself was dressed in black dress trousers, a white shirt, a silver tie, and a black motorcycle jacket. Ginny and Tonks both wore a short, silver dress with a high neck and almost no back. It had an a-line waist and was full of tulle as it flowed just above the knee. The top was embroidered in silver lace flowers and they wore black heeled sandals with a grey geometric pattern weaved into it and a red heel. Ginny's long red hair flowed over her shoulders in soft waves and Harry wanted to swallow his tongue when he saw her.
Goldwin Oliphant, Zee's boss in the Magical Menagerie, was presiding over the ceremony as Harry watched Colt walk Zee up the aisle in lieu of Misha's absence.
She looked absolutely stunning. Her dark brown curls were pinned out of her face with a beautiful white gold and star studded diamond vintage hair comb. Her dress was short and simple. It was a strapless, white lace floral cocktail dress with an a-line style, showcasing her curves. She wore ankle high silver edged stiletto sandals with rhinestone stars on the straps. At her neck she wore the black diamond necklace Sirius had bought her years ago and simple black diamond studs in her ears with her usual gold stars still dangling in place. Harry thought she looked incredible and from the look on Sirius' face, he definitely thought so too.
Oliphant was beaming as he proudly had them repeat after him and Sirius took Zee's hands in his.
"Zahira, I think I fell in love with you from the moment you told me what all of the motorcycle parts were in my work shed. I knew you were going to be the biggest pain in my arse because I couldn't stop thinking about you from the first," Sirius admitted. "You threw my world upside down and it was like I was watching it happen in slow motion. It's been incredible. It's been more than I ever imagined I would have in my life. You've helped me raise Harry to be the most incredible man and you've given me two more children to love and cherish. I love you something fierce, woman. I may be the star, but you're the one who really shines."
Zee smiled, tears in her eyes. "You are my star, Sirius Black. It was lust at first sight. Of course, that was for the motorbikes, you were a happy bonus."
"The best bonus," he interrupted.
"Definitely a perk," she agreed. "I fell in love with you the moment you let me drive your bike, though I think I might have been falling a long time before that. You gave me a family, a son to love and to cherish. We made a home together and despite the hardships we've encountered, we found our way back to each other. We have two more children to raise now and a new beginning for the two of us. Let's shine together."
"I love you," Sirius said.
"I love you," Zee said back.
Oliphant had them exchange rings and Harry passed over the two while gold bands that Sirius had given him earlier. Sirius' was a thicker white gold octagonal band with three round brilliant diamonds set in a satin finished centre with high polished edges. It was elegant and very Sirius, not to mention it matched Zee's ring very well. Zee's was also white gold with a delicate round tiara arc that paired perfectly with her cathedral star engagement ring. The cascading diamonds created a beautiful brilliance that accented both rings.
So, on the sixteenth of May, Zee officially became Zahira Black as Harry watched Oliphant tell Sirius that he could kiss the bride and Colt wolf whistled.
"About damn time!"
Sirius laughed and scooped Zee up bridal style. "We like to keep people on their toes, old man."
Colt grinned as everyone clapped and they had a small celebration with just family and close friends right in the garden of Black Cottage. Everyone ate and laughed and congratulated the happy couple. Colt and Flo offered to take the twins for the night so that the happy could have the evening to themselves and Harry thought things were finally going right.
While Sirius and Zee celebrated their marriage, Remus was finally recovered enough to return to work after a week away and as Deputy Headmaster of Hogwarts, took on the Headmaster duties until the Hogwarts Board of Governors could promote someone to the task. Flitwick jumped in to help Remus in the meantime in the role of Deputy Headmaster.
At the end of May, Harry received his results from his A2 examination and Higgins proudly presented him with his new A2 badge. He celebrated by having a family dinner with Sirius, Zee, Remus, Tonks, and Ginny after Ginny played in her final match of the season. Ginny and Colin wrote their NEWTs and Luna wrote her PLANTS as the school year came to a close and Harry found himself feeling anxious to begin the next part of his life.
Harry decided he was going to start it off by going to see Matteo in Knockturn Alley to have the tattoo on the right side of his ribs changed, removing the year of Sirius' death. Then, feeling sentimental, he also had a large wolf added to the tattoo to showcase the third father he'd almost lost with a few other flourishes.
When the tattoo was finished, his ribs were framed in yellow daffodils surrounded by white lilies with a stag front and centre and the years 1960-1981 to represent James and Lily Potter. Next to the stag, was a black dog that represented Sirius and beneath the dog, where his birth and death had originally been listed, changed into a wild letter Z made out of the white flowers of a southern magnolia. On the other side of the stag, Matteo tattooed a sandy brown and white wolf blowing a bright pink bubble with the letter T in it. Then curving in an upward circle across the bottom in cursive it read: Love Is All You Need. The whole tattoo was the width and height of his hand.
He also asked Matteo to touch up the green ink that read ~ Ginevra ~ on the inside of his right wrist where Sirius, in his Animagus form, had bit him two months back. He studied his final tattoo, Teddy's name and date of birth inked in cursive low on his left ribs and smiled.
When he returned home, he spread the appropriate salve over his newly minted tattoos and then stripped down in front of the full length mirror to examine himself critically in the reflection.
The last year had done wonders for him. His muscles were stronger, giving him rather nice biceps and arms as he ran a hand over his flat stomach, outlining the six defined abs that Theo had admired so much. He trailed his thumb over the thin dark trail that disappeared past his v lines to the dark hair above his long, thick, uncut cock and then he focused on the scars he'd accumulated in his almost nineteen years.
Harry traced his fingertip over the lightning bolt on the right side of his forehead that zagged through his eyebrow and was what had originally made him famous as the Boy Who Lived. Then the small triangular scar near his right elbow from where a Bludger had struck him in his second year. There was the thin white line down the centre of his left palm from where broken glass had sliced him when he was four. The long, white, jagged scar in the centre of his back from where the Horntail had struck him when he was fourteen. The three slim scars on his lower back from where he'd once been struck by the Dursleys' belt. The small barely noticeable pink line on the top of his head from where he'd fallen out of the treehouse. The flame shaped scar that wrapped around his left wrist from where Bellatrix had burned him with a purple flame. The long, narrow scar that struck a line from his shoulder to his ribs on the left side of his body from where Bellatrix had cut him. The zig-zagging burn scar on the inside of his right wrist that almost looked like another stroke of lightning was mostly hidden now under the tattoo of Ginny's name. The jagged line down the centre of his left forearm from the inside of his elbow to his wrist that had couriered Sirius' soul. The thin white line on his right cheek that started under his eye in a diagonal split to his mid cheek. And lastly, the long scar along the outside of his right leg, zagging in towards his thigh.
None of them were overly large or alarming, but looking at himself only reminded him of everything he'd overcome in his lifetime. He ran his hand through this thick black hair, making it stick up everywhere and then he took in the sight of his bright green eyes, almost as bright as emeralds, surrounded by long dark lashes and thought life had done him all right. He turned, taking in his muscular backside and his smooth back and thought he looked every bit the A2 he wanted to be, no longer that skinny, lanky boy he'd once been.
Harry splashed cold water on his face and then using a charm to keep his tattoos covered, hopped in the shower. He was spending the afternoon with Sirius and Zee before he picked up Ginny from King's Cross and he couldn't wait to finally bring her home with him for good.
Zee had returned to work in the Magical Menagerie two weeks after she'd married Sirius, much to the chagrin of her coworkers and of Oliphant who was absolutely thrilled to have her back. Sirius took back his positions on the Hogwarts Board of Governors and in the Wizengamot and by the end of June, everyone was finally settling back into normal life.
Ron and Hermione moved into Fred and George's old flat overtop their shop in Diagon Alley. Hermione continued to see Na'eemah Hickey on a weekly basis and was finally working to heal herself and her own trauma; sometimes Ron even sat in with her during her sessions. Bill and Fleur were madly in love with their new daughter who had born a whopping four and half kilograms with her bright blue eyes and peach fuzz white hair. She was chubby cheeked and chubby legged and absolutely adorable. Molly was dropping in often to check in on them as often as she could. Charlie and Aydin had returned to Romania after everything settled and wouldn't be returning until George and Angelina's wedding. Percy and Audrey continued to wedding plan for the nuptials next fall. Fred and Fiadh were busy with the twins and Fred grew closer to Donal who offered to babysit since his own three boys were well past the baby stage. George and Angelina sorted out the final details for their upcoming wedding in October and Angelina secured Ginny a five year-contract with the Holyhead Harpies along with a five percent raise after her first successful season with them.
And most importantly, Ginny made plans to move in with Harry.
Harry had taken a week off of work to pick her up from the train and settle her into his home. He was planning to spend his afternoon with Sirius and Zee until it was time to get her. He sat in a chair in the gazebo of Black Cottage, a glass of pink lemonade in his hand with Zee and Sirius sitting around him. Mina and Leo were playing on the grass and the sun was shining.
"Excited to get Ginny?" Sirius asked.
"Very," Harry said, his lips curving. "Being apart from her this year has been a lot more difficult than I anticipated it would be."
Zee smiled, reaching out to link her fingers with Sirius'. "I for one wish you were still living here, but I'm happy that you'll have Ginny for company since Ron moved out."
"Well, to be honest, Ron barely moved in," Harry said. "With he and Hermione fighting, he didn't want to stay there much and then when Uncle Sirius came back, I was spending most of my time here."
"When he wasn't sneaking off to shag Ginny," Sirius teased.
Harry rolled his eyes. "I wasn't always sneaking off to shag Ginny."
Zee chuckled. "As long as you're both using protection."
Harry blushed. "You do know that I'm grown up now, right?"
Sirius squeezed the back of Harry's neck. "That doesn't mean we can't pick on you or worry about you or wonder if you're being safe even when it comes to sex."
Harry gave Sirius a look. "It also means I'm not obligated to answer you."
"Is Ginny going directly home with you?" Zee asked.
"Yeah, she's going to stay tonight and then we're going to spend tomorrow packing up the rest of her things from the Burrow."
"And then you'll ask her?"
Harry snuck a look over at Sirius. "I'm… still working on that."
"Ask her… oh my goddess!" Zee exclaimed, her eyes widening in excitement. "Are you going to propose?"
"Not tonight," Harry said, trying to tone down Zee's excitement. "But yeah, I um, I have a ring."
Zee let out a tiny squeal. "Oh my goddess! Harry, this wedding is going to be absolutely bloody spectacular! You and Ginny are going to be gorgeous! I'm thinking summer, maybe some bright colours and bright flowers…"
Sirius chuckled and squeezed his wife's hand. "Babe, can you let him ask her first before you plan it all without them?"
Zee grinned. "I wouldn't plan it all without them. Molly would help."
Harry cleared his throat. "Your wedding was simple."
Zee rolled her eyes. "Completely different, Harry. When you and Ginny get married it's going to be the wedding of the century! Not just for us, but goodness, everyone is going to want to see photos of the new Harpy Chaser and the Man Who Defeated Voldemort in their finest. It's going to be spectacular!"
"We're eloping," Harry said.
Zee narrowed her eyes. "Don't even think about it, Harry James Potter."
Harry gave her a sheepish grin. "Just pretend I didn't say anything. As to the ring… I want to… surprise her."
"Don't be naked," Sirius advised.
Harry rolled his eyes. "Don't you have any better advice?"
Zee's dark eyes were bright. "Tell her you love her and don't make it a big production. This moment is for the two of you and no one else. Though if you wanted to ask her at say a big family dinner here with me and Sirius…"
"No," Harry said, shaking his head.
"Oh, fine, ruin all of my fun," Zee teased.
Sirius grinned when Leo came running up to him, climbing into his lap with his stick of bubbles and handing them to Sirius. Sirius helped him blow more bubbles through the hoop and Leo squealed in delight before running back out of the gazebo to play with his sister.
"I'm all for proposing, but just don't make us grandparents just yet, Harry. At least let us get these two off to Hogwarts first," Sirius said.
Harry chuckled. "We're not having kids yet, Uncle Siri, but I'm going to ask her. Soon. I just… want us to settle in a bit first."
"You have the whole week off?" Zee asked.
Harry nodded. "Yeah. We're going to use it to unpack and settle in and just catch up, you know?"
"So don't drop in unexpectedly," Sirius advised. "We might get an eyeful, Zee."
"Haha," Harry said.
"Well, why don't the two of you come over for dinner next Sunday? You'll be settled by then and maybe you'll have some news to share with us."
"Uncle Sirius, you had to tell her. She's not going to be able to keep it a secret," Harry complained.
Sirius winked. "Guess you better propose then."
~ TTTC ~
Ginny couldn't believe that she was officially finished Hogwarts. Seven years had gone by more quickly than she'd ever imagined. She'd made life long friends and fallen in love. She even found herself missing people she never thought she would as she packed up all of her things in her dormitory.
Ginny had never been particularly close to any of the girls she roomed with, but over the years they'd gotten to know each other, tolerated each other, and more. She'd never be close friends with any of them, but she was surprised to find that she might actually miss them a bit.
Maisie Wendall wanted to work with kids in a nursery school and was applying to jobs all over the country. KJ Alcott was working towards being a duelling champion and with a letter of recommendation from Flitwick, would be training with a champion duellist in London. Romilda Vane was making plans to become a fashion designer and had interviews lined up for the summer to intern.
"I can't believe that we're all leaving," Romilda exclaimed. "Doesn't it feel like only yesterday we were all waiting to be Sorted?"
"I'm glad to be done," KJ said. "You're going to see my name in lights as the best duellist in all of Britain soon."
Maisie smiled. "I just hope that I can find a job closer to my parents. I'm not quite ready to branch off on my own yet. How do you feel, Ginny?"
"Excited," Ginny admitted. "I'm sad to leave, of course, as Hogwarts has been like a second home, but I'm looking forward to the future."
"Is it true that you signed on for another five years with the Harpies?" Romilda asked.
Ginny nodded. "It is."
Romilda gave her a small smile. "Good. I know that we haven't always seen eye-to-eye, Ginny, but I'm very happy for you. You're really talented and the Harpies are lucky to have you."
"Thank you," Ginny said, surprised by the sincerity in Romilda's voice. "I hope your interviews go well."
Romilda beamed. "I just have so many ideas, you know? Like if I was dressing you for example, you'd be in the most incredible shades of green or violet or even gold."
Ginny's mouth parted in surprise before she caught herself. "Er, thanks." She hesitated a moment before she cleared her throat. "Romilda, I know that we haven't always gotten along, but I am going to be in the spotlight a lot so… if you have something you think would work for me, send me an owl. If I like what you design, I'd be proud to wear it."
"Wow, really?" Romilda exclaimed. "Oh Merlin, that would be so amazing! Thank you, Ginny! Why on earth would you do that for me after everything I've done to you and to Harry?"
"Maybe I'm feeling nostalgic," Ginny admitted, giving Romilda a look. "What happened with you and my boyfriend was years ago and you realized it was wrong. You were punished and we've all moved on, but I also think that everyone deserves a second chance."
Romilda's eyes filled up with tears. "Thank you. I'm going to send you that owl, Ginny Weasley and you're going to be the best dressed Quidditch player in the whole country."
A smile tugged Ginny's lips. "All right then."
The four of them hugged before grabbing their things and heading out to the carriages to bring them to the school train. Ginny shifted Arnold, who was asleep on her shoulder and hiding under her hair. She'd sent Hedwig home to Harry already. She found Colin and Luna in a compartment near the back and she made herself comfortable on one of the seats for the last time.
"Well, this is it," Ginny said. "I even hugged my roommates goodbye, I must be feeling sentimental."
Colin laughed. "Me too. Can you believe we're really done?"
"Not even a little," Ginny admitted.
Luna smiled. "Harry's picking you up?"
"Yes," Ginny said. "We're going to spend the night together and then go to the Burrow to pack up my things tomorrow. We'll have dinner with Mum at the Burrow after we're finished. I can't wait to see him."
"Shag him," Colin corrected.
Ginny's lips curved. "Yes, that too."
"Well, my parents are taking me out to dinner somewhere in Muggle London to celebrate finishing my magical education and then I'm going to finalize my travel plans."
"When are you leaving?" Ginny asked.
"The first of July," Colin said. "That gives me almost two weeks to get things organized and put my things into storage so that Mum and Dad don't have to pack it up for me. Who knows how long I'll be gone."
"Daddy's picking me up and we're going out to dinner as well to celebrate," Luna said. "My portkey to Auckland leaves on the third."
Ginny nodded. "Merlin, I'm going to miss the two of you very much."
"We'll keep in touch," Colin promised. "And in the meantime, we're having a get together with Theo before we go."
"Yes," Ginny confirmed. "I already spoke with him. It's going to be next week, on the twenty-sixth, the Saturday. We're going over to his place for one and we're going to drink and lounge by the pool and just have a lovely time."
"Can't wait," Colin said.
They spent the rest of the train ride reminiscing about the past seven years and when the train finally slowed at King's Cross Station, Ginny was surprised to feel tears welling up in her eyes. She hugged Colin and Luna tightly before she grabbed her trunk and her bag and climbed off of the school train for the last time.
Harry was leaning against one of the brick pillars, his hands in his pockets and one leg crossed behind an ankle in a casual pose. His dark hair was messy and blowing in the wind. He was wearing dark blue jeans that made his arse look great and a Holyhead Harpies tee shirt with her name and number on it along with his black and red trainers. His eyes found hers a moment later and his face broke out into a wide grin.
Ginny dropped her trunk where she stood and ran into his arms. He caught her halfway, lifting her up into his arms as she locked her legs around his waist and their lips met for the first time in almost a month. Ginny slid her fingers up into his soft hair, losing herself in his lips as they kissed again and again and again. When they finally broke for air, they grinned stupidly at each other.
Ginny let her eyes wander down his body before she grinned mischievously at him. "Harry, I love that you're not disillusioning yourself anymore. You look very peng in those jeans. Sexy as fuck."
The back of his neck flushed. "Erm, I mean, the tee shirt covers a bit."
"You're gorgeous," Ginny told him. "Especially wearing my number like that."
Harry grinned. "I'll never hide my pride for you. You're bloody incredible. So, are you ready to go home, Gin?"
"Yes. Take me home, Auror Potter."
Neither of them noticed the flashing photography bulb as Harry bent to grab her trunk and then he took her hand in his as they made their way to an Apparition point to go home.
When they stepped into the front door of Clevedon Court, Harry dropped her trunk down and then turned to pin her back against the front door. He tucked a long piece of red hair behind her ear as he gave her a half smile before he leaned in and nipped at her mouth.
"Welcome home, Gin."
Ginny slid her hands up his chest, admiring the firm muscles beneath his shirt before Harry took both of her hands in his and lifted them above her head. In two quick steps she was pinned against the front door by Harry's hand on her wrists. His other hand held her hip and his mouth met hers, deepening the kiss as he pressed her more firmly against the door. It was only when someone cleared their throat did they break away.
"Erm, I apologize for interrupting," Basil began making Harry and Ginny turn to look at the house elf.
"It's all right, Basil," Harry said. "What can we do for you?"
"Oh, no, Mister Harry Potter, Sir, it's what Basil can do for you and Mistress Ginny!"
Ginny smiled warmly at the elf. "Basil, you know how much Harry and I appreciate you, but I think that we have this covered."
"Yeah," Harry said. "You have your tasks to take care of and we'd appreciate you keeping us in groceries and helping take care of the house when you can. Gin and I can take care of each other."
Basil beamed at them. "Very well. If you need anything, please call."
Then he Disapparated on the spot.
"Kreacher?" Ginny asked.
Harry shook his head. "Now that Uncle Sirius is back, he's too busy annoying him. He won't come unless called."
"Good," Ginny said, sliding her hands under his tee shirt to grip the hem and pulling it up over his head. "I think you should welcome me home right here."
Harry grinned as he fixed his glasses from falling as his tee shirt hit the ground. "I think that's a pretty good plan."
Then he knelt before her and began to undo her jeans. Ginny ran her fingers through his hair, a soft smile on her lips and her eyes dark with desire.
Harry tugged her jeans down her hips. He helped her step out of her shoes before urging her to lift one leg, then the other as he took her jeans off. Ginny pulled her shirt over her head, dropping it to the floor and Harry leaned in, pressing his mouth against her nude lace knickers.
"Do you have any idea how much I've missed you?" he asked, rolling the lace down her hips.
"If it's even half as much as I've missed you, I have an inkling."
Harry grinned as she stepped out of the lace and he tossed them behind him. "Take off your bra."
Ginny unhooked it and let it fall to the ground, her eyes landing on where Harry was kneeling shirtless before her. His green eyes were full of desire as they slowly ran down her body. When his gaze fell between her legs, she watched him lick his lips and she throbbed. Then he leaned in and kissed her where she wanted him most.
Harry's mouth pressed against her mound, his fingers trailing over her thighs before he licked his bottom lip. "I missed lunch today."
"What?" Ginny asked, surprised to hear him speak.
"I missed lunch," he repeated.
Soft kisses peppered over her, deepening into more, until his tongue slid along her seam. She let a soft gasp escape her and Harry tilted his head back to look up at her, a slow smile forming before he pushed his glasses back onto the top of his head.
"And I'm bloody starving," he said before he slid his tongue into her.
Ginny cried out at the feel of him, a groan escaping her lips as he licked her the way she liked it. She dug her fingers into his shoulders, admiring the smooth muscles there as his tongue swiped and flicked over her showing her exactly how hungry he was. His tongue flattened as he licked her and her head fell back against the front door as she moaned his name.
Then he lifted her leg and placed it over his shoulder to give him better access. The sound she made was pure sin as his tongue dove deeper and when his fingers joined his tongue, all she could do was clutch his shoulders and the wall behind her as she rode his face.
She came with a loud shout and Harry kept licking her until she whimpered. Then he slowly lowered her leg back to the floor. She placed a hand over her racing heart as she watched him pull his glasses back down over his eyes and lick his lips. Then he leaned in and pressed open mouthed kisses over her abs and up her breasts, until he was standing before her with his lips on hers.
"Mmm, that was quite the welcome, Auror Potter."
"I'm just getting started, Harpy."
Ginny gasped when he spun her around, her hands flattening against the front door in surprise. She heard the zipper lower on his jeans and a moment later, he was pressing his hard shaft between her legs, teasing her with it.
"I'm going to take you right here," he growled in her ear. "Right here against our front door. How do you feel about that?"
Ginny glanced back over her shoulder and grinned. "I'm wondering what's taking you so long."
When he slid into her, they both groaned. Harry's hand came up to squeeze her breast and the other tangled in her long red hair as he worked himself slowly in and out of her. The noises that escaped Ginny were almost embarrassing, but when he pulled on her hair just enough so that he could suck on her throat, she moaned his name.
"Fuck, Harry. Faster."
Harry obliged, his fingers tweaking her nipple while his other hand fisted in her hair and his hips slammed into her again and again. The house was quiet except for the sounds of their joined bodies meeting against the front door again and again and again. Ginny cried out, pushing herself back to take more of him and he picked up his pace, his lips by her ear.
"What do you need, Gin? Tell me what you need because I'm so bloody close."
"Touch me," she moaned. "Just… touch me."
Harry's fingers gave her nipple a sharp tug before his hand slid down to flick where she wanted him. He barely touched her before she was coming apart against him. Harry worked her faster as he felt her grip him tighter as she came and he shouted as he finished, his hips continuing a steady, punishing rhythm to finish them both off. He kissed his way over her shoulders and down her back.
"Mmm, that was perfect," he murmured.
When he slid out of her, she winced a bit before she slowly turned around. Harry looked completely shagged. His jeans and underwear were pushed down to his ankles over his trainers and his hair was sticking up even more than usual. His skin was covered in a soft sheen of sweat and Ginny licked her lips.
"So, where to next?"
Harry laughed as he stepped out of his shoes and kicked the rest of his clothes off. "I was thinking that we clean up and then get some dinner first."
Ginny stepped closer and wrapped her hand around him. "All right. You should definitely feed me."
His eyes darkened at the connotation of her words and she grinned.
"Food first, Harry, but then yes."
She gave him a saucy wink before she picked up her clothes and headed up the main staircase starkers. When she turned around to peek at him, he was still standing in front of the front door, completely naked, his eyes on her.
"Hurry up, Potter. You only have one week off and we have a lot of places we haven't broken in yet."
She laughed when he bolted up the stairs after her and they fell on the bed in their bedroom, lips meeting as they tickled and teased each other until they were both breathless.
Ginny leaned over him, placing her palm against his stubbed cheek. "Harry, I'm glad to be home."
Harry sat up to meet her lips for one more soft kiss. "I'm glad you're home too."
~ TTTC ~
Harry couldn't even begin to explain how happy he was to have Ginny living with him. They spent their first night in bed, talking and eating in between various rounds of shagging. Ginny traced his new tattoos with a big smile and then kissed each of them as they talked about her last weeks at Hogwarts, the anniversaries, the end of the war, and about how they were both doing since Bellatrix and Crouch had met their bloody and violent demise. Harry was pleased to hear that she was handling things well and he told her everything that he and Auden had said and spoken about since he'd seen her last as she listened attentively without interruption. Then they ate snacks on the balcony and Harry bent her over the railing, watching her tits bounce in the reflection of the candlelight visible in front of the glass doors.
When he woke up Saturday morning in her arms, Harry felt at peace. He kissed her shoulders and her neck to wake her, lingering over her breasts before she finally pinned him down to the bed and kissed her way down his chest. When she wrapped her mouth around him, he clutched her hair and told her he loved her as he finished in her mouth. They spent most of Saturday at the Burrow packing up her things and then missed the lunch Molly had made them because they'd been shagging in her childhood bed one last time. Or twice. Thankfully, Molly had left for work with Hannah and didn't see them come down the stairs forty-five minutes later with guilty looks on their faces.
They ate lunch and then brought all of Ginny's things to Clevedon Court. They unpacked the important things, leaving some stuff to do later and then headed back to the Burrow to have dinner with Molly.
When they returned to Clevedon Court that night, Ginny rode him in a chair at the kitchen table and then they decided to test out one of the beds in a spare room. They spent a lazy Sunday morning making love in bed before cooking breakfast together and then going out for a horseback ride.
They caught each other up on everything they might have missed that first night and then made love in the shade under a tree. They cooked lunch together, danced in the kitchen and sang along to the local wireless station. Rain clouded the third day so they snuggled up on the sofa in the library and Harry cued up a Muggle movie, projected on the wall. It was called Ever After and was based on the old fairy tale of Cinderella. Ginny cried and Harry had to admit, even his emotions got the best of him (not that he'd admit it).
They made dinner together and before they cleaned up, Ginny got down on her knees and used her mouth, licking her lips when she finished. They went for a walk around the property, holding hands and getting to know the gardens, the makeshift Quidditch pitch, and the stables. When they returned inside, Arnold was asleep in the middle of a pile of hay and Hedwig had taken up residence in the top of the stables.
When Harry woke up with Ginny curled into his side on Monday the twenty-first, he knew that today was going to be the day. He slowly kissed his way down her body to wake her, but she didn't come fully awake until his tongue speared into her.
"Harry!" she gasped, her fingers finding his hair as he brought her to orgasm.
"Morning," Harry murmured, pecking her lips. He slid his hand around to slap her bottom. "Get up. Now that I've had my breakfast, we're going for a run."
Ginny stretched her arms up over head with a sleepy yawn. "You're getting very bold, Mr Potter."
He pecked her nose. "And you're delicious, Weasley. Come on, let's go for that run and maybe I'll have you for second breakfast too."
Ginny's lips twitched. "I need a nap."
"Run," Harry ordered, slapping her arse again.
Ten minutes later, they were outside in the early morning air stretching and then they took off for their morning run. They ran five kilometres before doing a cool down and then Harry carried her into the shower to clean up where he did enjoy a second breakfast. Then he shagged her against the tile.
It was late in the afternoon, when he took her hand in his and tugged her around the outside of the house.
"Where are we going?" she asked.
"Outside. As much as I want to keep you in our bed, I want to show you something."
Ginny was smiling as she hurried after him. Being here in Clevedon Court was everything she'd imagined it would be. The last few days had been filled with organizing things, long kisses, and making love in different places all over the house.
Just this morning they'd barely finished cleaning up their breakfast before Harry had her naked and spread out on the dining room table. She'd come twice; first from his tongue and then from him being deep inside of her right there on the table. That wasn't even including her wakeup call or their shower. No, she was feeling pretty good about herself at the moment.
Now he was holding her hand and leading her out through the large garden and out into the mini Quidditch pitch that Fleamont Potter had put together for James. The big open area had a picnic spread out on a Gryffindor blanket and she smiled at the sight of it.
"A picnic?"
"Yes," he said, stealing a kiss. "Have a seat."
She smiled as she sat down on the blanket and let Harry pour her a glass of white wine and serve her the delicious assortment he'd put together for dinner. They had chicken, brie, and apple sandwiches on French baguettes with fresh fruit on the side and some of Zee's infamous potato salad. Ginny dug in with gusto, smiling at Harry from across the blanket.
"This is perfect, Harry."
He smiled back. "I love having you here, Gin."
"I love being here. I especially love that we're giving the house a proper christening."
Harry chuckled. "Just no more stairs."
Ginny stuck her tongue out at him. "You loved the stairs."
He bit his lip and shrugged.
Ginny took a bite of a fresh strawberry, licking juice from her lips. "We haven't done much in the wine cellar yet."
"I'll keep it in mind," he teased as she winked at him.
They talked about wanting to travel and see the world and Ginny mentioned that she was thinking of going to see Colin or Luna at some point during the summer before training began again. Harry was disappointed she might be leaving, but he knew how much she wanted to enjoy some time with her friends as well.
He broke out the chocolate cheesecake for dessert and Ginny leaned in to kiss him.
"If I didn't love you already, this would do it."
"I know how to keep my Weasley fed, watered, and well-pleasured."
Ginny grinned. "Smart man."
When they finished dessert, Harry stood up and extended his hand. "I have one more place I want to bring you tonight."
Ginny's eyebrow rose and a whirring sound had her turning in time to see Harry's Firebolt fly into her boyfriend's outstretched hand. "I'm intrigued."
He hopped onto the broom and held out his hand. "Come fly with me."
Ginny smiled and climbed onto the broom in front of him. "I'll always fly with you."
Harry kissed under her ear before he wrapped one arm around her, holding her back plush against his front. He used his other hand to steer and sent the broom upwards. They flew around the garden in loops and all over, making them both grin. Ginny had no idea how long they took to the sky, but they held onto each other with big smiles and soared through the air without a care in the world until the sky began to darken. Then he reluctantly turned the broom towards the house and dropped them down onto a flat area of the roof overlooking the back. They dismounted and Harry leaned his broom against the window which looked into Euphemia's old indoor greenhouse.
"I didn't know that this was up here," Ginny told him.
"There's a few places on the roof that are like this," Harry admitted. "But this spot has the best view."
"Best view?"
"Of the sunset," he said, urging her down to sit on the small love seat he'd conjured.
"You want us to watch the sun set?"
"I want to do everything with you."
Ginny's eyes softened as she took a seat on the love seat and patted the spot next to her. "Come sit with me then, Harry."
Harry turned his head to look out at the sky which was darkening to deep shades of amber and gold before he reached out to take her hand, tugging her back up to her feet. She smiled when his hands held her hips, lifting her a little as he captured her mouth for a long, soft kiss. Then he pressed his forehead against hers, those green eyes staring into her soul.
"I love you."
"I love you, too," she said, dancing her fingers up the back of his neck and into his hair.
"Having you be here with me, for real, it's… it's the best thing in the world, Gin. I want you here, always."
"I will be," she promised.
Harry pecked her lips once more before he stepped back a little, his hands still holding her hips. "I was counting the days until your last day at Hogwarts. With everything that's happened and… you being here, Gin, it's everything. You're my everything."
"Harry…" she started, but the sudden tears in the back of her throat made her swallow her words. The way he was looking at her right now with the sun setting behind him, his eyes so full of love… it made her want to snuggle herself into his strong arms and never let go.
"You're the most important person in my life," Harry continued. "I've been blessed to have a lot of people who love me for some reason and I care about a lot of people in return, but you rise above all of them. Part of me knows that I've loved you from that very first moment that I saw you curled up inside the tower of a playground. I remember thinking you had the most extraordinary fiery red hair, adorable freckles on your nose, and beautiful dark chocolate eyes. Then the next thing I knew, you were in my arms and kissing my lips. I'd never felt so startled and warm in my life. I just… I felt warm and I didn't even know you. I didn't know anyone really, but I trusted you: Completely. It's always been like that. I've always trusted you explicitly, completely, and utterly without hesitation. I think even at five years old, I knew that you were the one for me. It just took me a while to admit it."
Her lips curved. "I believe you thought it was something about the formal wear."
He grinned sheepishly. "That might be when it finally clubbed me over the head, but I've always been drawn to you, Gin. You're just… light and warmth and… everything."
Ginny reached her hand up to cup his cheek. "I love you, Harry Potter. I always will. You're my everything, too."
Harry turned his head to kiss her palm. "I brought you up here tonight to watch the sunset because when the sun sets, it reminds me of your hair."
"Because it's red?"
"Because it's so much more than just red," he corrected, unbraiding her hair and letting it fly free over her shoulders and down her back and in between his fingers. "It's amber and gold and earth and fire. It's like an open flame and…" His cheeks heated. "I'm no poet, but it's… lovely."
She smiled. "Thank you."
"But I did sort of work on something for you."
Ginny's eyebrow rose. "You wrote me a poem?"
Harry nodded, his cheeks still flushed. "Kind of." He cleared his throat and then took both of her hands in his. "I had a little inspiration from another poem I once heard."
Ginny gave him a questioning look before she recognized the twinkle in his eye. She narrowed her eyes slightly. "Harry…"
He grinned. "Her eyes are as dark as the wood of my broom, her hair as red as the sun. The stars have aligned and she's really mine, I hope she'll be the bride to my groom."
Ginny started to tease him about the poem before she'd fully realized what the last sentence had been and then he was down on one knee, her hands still tightly in his.
"I love you, Ginny Weasley. You are mine in every way and I am yours. You own me: Heart, Body, and Soul. I wouldn't want it any other way. I've loved you since I was five years old and I will love you for all of my life and beyond. This is our home and I want to spend all of my life here with you, making it a home. I want to makes babies with you. I want to practice making those babies — a lot. All over the house. In every room. On every surface. A lot."
She laughed, tears in her eyes. "Yes."
Harry kept talking.
"You are my world and I want the world to know it. I want my last name on your Harpies jersey even though I know it's totally sexist, I don't care."
"Yes," she repeated, grinning at him.
"Will you marry me, Ginny? Be with me? Be mine?"
"Yes, you noble git," she said, kneeling down with him and taking his hands. "I love you so much, Harry. Of course I want to do all of those things with you. Of course I want to be Ginny Potter. Of course I want to make babies with you and practice making babies with you in every room and on every surface and against every wall. I'm yours, Harry, completely, and you are mine. Yes, I will marry you."
She threw her arms around his neck and captured his mouth for a long kiss that left both of them breathless. Then she turned, resting her cheek against his.
"I can't believe you wrote that cheesy poem for me."
He snorted. "It sounded better in my head."
"It was perfect," she said. "I think that you should recite it in our vows."
"Um, no," he said, shaking his head. "No one else is ever going to hear that."
Ginny grinned. "I don't think I made that promise."
"Ginny…"
She laughed and kissed him again. "We're getting married."
"Yeah, we are," he said, brushing his lips with hers before he froze. "Shit, I forgot!"
Ginny gave him a puzzled look before he reached into his pocket and pulled out the black velvet box.
"I'm sorry, Ginny. I wanted this to be perfect and I wanted to have the ring out and ready and… Merlin, I'm a tosser."
Ginny kissed him. "It was perfect, Harry. The proposal isn't about the ring."
His green eyes softened and he kissed her forehead. "I love you."
"I love you."
He popped open the ring box and cleared his throat. "It um, it's the Potter ring. It's been in my family for centuries. Uncle Sirius gave it to me. If you don't like it, we can pick something out together…"
Ginny couldn't take her eyes off of the ring. It was breathtaking. A stunning beautiful ring shone up at him. A yellow gold eternity band with a large ruby shinning in the centre sat atop a white gold band with diamonds etched along the side. The centre ruby was encircled by diamonds and small rubies were inside of the criss crossed middle of the eternity symbol. Additional rubies were adjacent to the smaller ones, one on the upper outer leg of the "X" and one on the lower leg. It was truly breathtaking.
In fact, it was the most beautiful ring she'd ever seen in her life.
"Harry… it's beautiful."
His lips curved. "So beautiful."
When her eyes met his, she knew that he wasn't talking about the ring. He plucked it from the box and carefully slid it onto her finger. It was a perfect fit and she goggled down at it in wonder.
Harry kissed her knuckles around the ring and then pulled her to her feet, snuggling her down against him on the conjured love seat to watch the sunset. Ginny linked her fingers with his, her eyes on how the setting sun reflected off of her ring and smiled. Their lips met again and it was dark when they finally pulled away.
Harry pressed his forehead against hers. "Well, how do you want to go about this? Telling people that is?"
Ginny smiled. "I think that we have to start with my mum. She's going to start planning our wedding immediately," she warned him. "In fact, I wouldn't even be surprised if it's halfway planned already."
He chuckled. "I think Zee's already started the same. I thought she was going to burst when she found out that I was planning to propose. Doesn't matter. I'd marry you right now if you wanted to."
Ginny traced his jaw with her finger. "Me too. I don't want a long engagement."
"Me neither," he whispered, brushing his lips over hers. "We could elope."
Her lips curved. "That would amount in both of us being killed."
"We could elope and then plan a wedding for everyone to attend and get married again?"
"Don't tempt me," she said, pecking his lips. "Next year."
Harry groaned. "That's pretty far away."
"Next year," she repeated. "Weddings take time to plan so, after the season. Then I'll start my third year as a professional Quidditch player as Ginny Potter."
Harry's eyes darkened as he tugged her into his lap. "Fuck, I like the sound of that."
"I didn't expect you to get so Neanderthal on me."
"Me neither," he admitted. "But I really love the sound of you having my name, Gin."
Ginny straddled him on the love seat and wrapped her arms around his neck. "I really love it, too. I want to be Mrs Harry James Potter."
"Mrs Ginevra Molly Potter," he corrected. "The Marchioness of Somerset."
"Oh, bloody hell, I forgot about that part."
He grinned. "My fiancée. My wife."
Then their lips met again and when she ground herself against him, he groaned.
"I think we should celebrate this momentous moment," Ginny said, reaching down to lift her shirt up and pulling it up over her head.
Harry swallowed, taking in the red and gold bra she was wearing. "Your ring matches your bra."
Ginny's brown eyes filled with mischief as she leaned in to nip at his mouth. "It matches my knickers too."
Harry captured her mouth in his again. "Gin?"
"Yeah?"
"I want you in nothing but your ring in ten seconds. We haven't christened the roof yet."
Ginny laughed as they began to tear at each other's clothes and when he slid into her on a blanket he spread out on the ground, they held onto each tightly under the stars and made plans for their forever.
~ TTTC ~
The rest of the week flew by too quickly. Harry and Ginny spent all of their time organizing Ginny's things around the house, horseback riding, flying, and shagging everywhere. They made it down to the wine cellar, did it on the window seat in the library, and even made use of some of the spare rooms. That didn't even include the time they did it against the wall of the stables, on the grass outside in the makeshift Quidditch pitch, and on the balcony of their bedroom.
Harry told her more about the ring on her finger and how Sirius had found it in his parents' vault and put it aside for him one day. He explained how Sirius had given it him after he'd come back because he'd known that Harry was ready to ask her.
"How old is the ring?" Ginny asked, holding her hand out against his bare chest to admire it for the umpteenth time.
"Seventeenth century," Harry said. "An ancestor of mine, a pirate and curse breaker actually, by the name of Nathan Potter had it commissioned for the woman he loved. Uncle Sirius doesn't know how much of it is true, but the family story according to my dad was that Nathan Potter had found treasure in the city of Atlantis and had a ring made it from it for his wife Eliza. It's been passed down ever since to the eldest Potter son. My dad gave it to my mum when they were at Hogwarts."
"It's gorgeous," Ginny said, kissing his chest. "I love it. I love you." Then she let her tongue glide over his nipple, her brown eyes twinkling. "Let's pull out your book and see what fun position we can try next."
Harry scrambled for his night table drawer and she laughed before they stretched out across the bed and flipped through the pages, grinning foolishly at each other.
Harry was returning to work on Monday which was why they were planning to spend Friday night having dinner with Sirius, Zee, Remus, and Tonks. Molly had asked for Sunday dinner, claiming everyone was coming over for dinner and since Ginny made plans to spend Saturday with Colin, Theo, and Luna, Friday was what was left.
When Friday came around, Harry warned Ginny that Zee was probably going to be looking for the ring on her finger.
"She was so excited and I tried to tell her that I didn't know when I was going to ask you," he explained. "We might have to tell her and Uncle Sirius before your mum."
Ginny gave him a mischievous smile. "Well, let's make her work for it then."
She pulled her wand out of her pocket and performed a glamour charm over her hand to hide the ring from everyone's view except hers and Harry shook his head in amusement.
"You're such trouble."
Ginny winked and clasped her hands in his. "Absolutely and you wouldn't have me any other way."
When they arrived at Black Cottage, they were immediately greeted by an excited Padfoot before Mina and Leo ran over. Harry hugged Sirius and Zee as well as Remus and Tonks before greeting Teddy.
"Surprised you two made it," Sirius said. "It's been a week since Ginny moved in and we haven't heard boo."
"Well, I can bet I know what they've been up to," Tonks teased, wiggling her eyebrows. "Ginny, are you walking a bit crooked?"
Harry stuck his tongue out at her and Remus clasped his hand over his wife's mouth before she could make another comment.
"Shush, both of you! Ginny, how are you settling in?" Remus asked.
"I'm settled," Ginny admitted. "We've unpacked and organized. Of course, there are still a few things around the house to work on, but it feels like home."
Harry beamed at her, kissing their joined hands. "Yeah, it does."
"Is that what you've been doing all week? Just unpacking?" Zee asked.
"Settling in," Ginny said. "We've gone horseback riding almost every day and went flying. We've been running around the village most days to get our five kilometres in and watched a Muggle film. There's been cooking and we had a picnic outside. It's just been nice. Nothing to worry about. No stress. Just being together. Oh, and Harry wrote me a poem."
Harry's face turned bright red. "Gin! We said that we wouldn't tell people that."
"Nope, I never agreed to that," she teased.
Sirius grinned widely. "Always knew I liked you, Ginny. A poem? Do tell."
"No, let's not tell," Harry said. "It was horrible and it won't ever be mentioned again."
"I bet it wasn't nearly as catchy as 'his eyes are as green as a fresh pickled toad' was," Sirius teased.
"It was pretty close," Ginny said. "He was going on about my hair looking like fire and the sun."
Harry shook his head. "Uncalled for, Gin."
Zee snuck a look at Ginny's hand. "What was the occasion for this poem?"
"No reason," Harry said. "We were just talking and I was teasing her about her poem from once upon a time."
Sirius gave Harry a look as if he didn't believe him before he turned to Ginny. "So, what are your plans for your summer, Ginny? You don't have work, right?"
"Not officially until the middle of August, no," Ginny said. "I don't really know yet. I was talking to Harry about wanting to travel, maybe spending some time with Colin and Luna as both of them will be travelling this summer. It will be nice to just relax and not worry about anything."
"No other plans?"
"Zee," Sirius said, taking his wife's hand. "Shush."
Ginny shrugged, exchanging a mischievous look with Harry. "No, not a lot of big plans. I have to try on my bridesmaid dress again for George and Angelina's wedding in October and of course, Audrey has a dress for me to try on for her wedding next year. I suppose since I'm out, I should start finding my own dress as well."
"Good plan," Harry said.
Zee's mouth dropped open before her eyes fell on Ginny's hand again. "A dress?"
"For my wedding," Ginny said.
Harry waved his wand over Ginny's hand, showcasing the beautiful Potter ring and Zee squealed so loudly that birds shot out of the tree behind them in alarm. She was on her feet in an instant, rushing to hug both Ginny and Harry as Tonks, Remus, and Sirius rose to do the same.
"Oh Merlin! I'm so excited!" Zee exclaimed. "Ginny, you're going to be the most beautiful bride! Do you have ideas? I have so many ideas! Did you pick a date yet?"
"Zee, she's barely said yes. Breathe," Harry said.
Zee grabbed Harry's shoulders and kissed his cheeks soundly. "I can't believe you're getting married! You know I'm going to cry, right?"
Ginny grinned, leaning into Harry when he put his arm around her. "We haven't told my mum yet and won't until we have dinner on Sunday so you have to keep it a secret until then."
"Promise," Zee said, miming a zipping motion over her lips.
Tonks' eyes were lit up as she smiled at them. "Your mum is going to be mad with joy and probably try to plan the whole wedding."
"Zee's already started," Harry said. "They might have to fight over it. Maybe we should just elope?"
"Harry James Potter if you two run off and elope and deny me the chance to see you walk down that aisle, you will be sorry!"
Sirius chuckled and draped his arm over his wife's shoulders. "Down, woman. We'll threaten him later."
Ginny grinned. "And no, we're not eloping. We're thinking next summer, but that's as far out as we planned."
"July?" Tonks asked.
"Maybe," Ginny said, looking thoughtful. "That could work. I want to be done the season so that we can marry and go on a honeymoon and not have to worry about the Quidditch season."
Zee picked up Ginny's hand to admire the ring. "Gods, this is so gorgeous. You know, we could match the whole wedding to your ring if you wanted? I have so many ideas!"
Ginny chuckled. "We'll talk."
When Harry and Ginny returned home that night, Harry stopped her at the front door and kissed her deeply. Ginny slid her hands around his neck and smiled up at him.
"I think that I'm going to share the news with Theo, Colin, and Luna tomorrow as well. I want to tell them in person and it will be my only opportunity, at least for Colin and Luna."
"All right," Harry said, kissing her forehead. "Then we'll tell your mum and brothers at Sunday dinner?"
"That's the plan," Ginny said. "Are you all right with that?"
"More than," he said, kissing her forehead again. "And were you serious back there? Next July?"
"Yes," Ginny said. "July of 2000. What do you think?"
"I can't wait," he whispered before he covered her lips with his once more.
End Author's Notes:
Pictures of the ring and from Sirius and Zee's wedding are on my tumblr — breaniebree.
Thank you for reading and please review!
