Lightning
Written for hinnymicrofic, November 6, 2023
10 May, 1997
To be honest, Ginny was quite angry, and her anger was directed at a certain green-eyed and messy black-haired boy. Ginny was angry that Harry would not be able to play the decisive match against Ravenclaw. Of course, she did not envy Harry being locked up in the dungeons on such a beautiful day, suffering the company of Snape of all people. Sure, she had defended him against Hermione, who had accused him of using a curse he knew nothing about. That had been the right thing to do, back then. Today, however, as she went downstairs to have breakfast with the rest of the team, Ginny could not hide a little annoyance towards Harry. Not so much because he had betrayed the team or anything like that, but because his defection was forcing her – again! – to play as a Seeker. Merlin, she had almost played more games in Harry's role than in her natural position as Chaser!
Ginny opened the door to the Great Hall with more force than necessary. She scanned the room and, against her will, as if drawn by an invisible magical magnet, her eyes met Harry's. His expression was one of open, unmistakable, undisguised regret and, more deeply, sorrow at not being able to enjoy the simple pleasure of playing Quidditch - one of the few simple, pleasurable things left in Harry's life.
Ginny tried, really tried, to be angry with him, but after two steps she sighed and sat down next to Harry, giving him a gentle nudge.
"How many times do I have to make up for your mistakes, Mr. Potter?" Her tone was light, playful.
"You'll be brilliant." Harry replied confidently.
"Of course I will!"
They both started to eat breakfast. Harry was smiling now. It seemed to Ginny that she had already won her personal match.
She had no idea what was in store for her.