AN: This is a word of fiction using the characters from Harry Potter that are trademarked by J.K. Rowling

The cozy warmth of the Burrow enveloped Harry as he walked into the home that contained the only good memories from his childhood. The familiar smells of Mrs. Weasley's cooking filled the air, and the laughter of the Weasley siblings echoed through the room.

Harry gently led his new girlfriend through the main living room towards the kitchen and dining room. He was about to introduce his new girlfriend, Danielle, to the Weasley family. Well, the only one that mattered anyway.

Ginny, her vibrant red hair cascading down her shoulders, was seated on the far side of the large wooden table. Her eyes flickered toward him, a mixture of curiosity and longing. It had been two years since their breakup, but the ghost of their history lingered in the air.

Harry shifted where he stood as he felt the weight of Ginny's gaze. He caught her eye, and for a moment, a fleeting look of sadness passed between them. Ginny forced a smile, but Harry could make out the storm of emotions beneath the surface.

The lively chatter at the table continued and though Harry was reluctant to break up the fun there was a noticeable tension that hung over the room now that Ginny had spotted the couple and Harry hoped to lessen it.

He cleared his throat and wrapped his arm around Danielle's shoulder, "Everyone, this is Danielle," he announced.

"Dani, these are the Weasleys."

Mrs. Weasley beamed warmly and welcomed Danielle with open arms. Ron and George exchanged polite greetings, but Ginny's smile remained strained. She kept her gaze lowered, her fingers tracing patterns on the worn tablecloth.

"So, how did you two meet?" Ron asked to break the awkward silence that had settled over the table.

Harry looked at Danielle with a fond smile, "We met through work. Dani just transferred from the French Ministry and started in the Improper Use of Magic Office."

The conversation continued and Harry was relieved that the Weasleys were open and engaged Danielle in various topics throughout dinner.

Ginny remained quiet. Her eyes occasionally darted in Harry's direction, but she did not utter a single word.

As the evening progressed the table, which started laden with delicious savory dishes, now held sweet desserts. Harry finally noticed the subtle glances that Ginny sent his way. Her eyes held a mixture of longing and pain, a silent plea for a reconciliation that would never happen.

After dessert, as everyone moved towards the living room, Ginny excused herself to escape outside for some fresh air. Harry watched her leave and felt a pang of guilt.

"I'll be back in a minute," Harry murmured, and Danielle just squeezed Harry's hand reassuringly before following George into the living room.

The air was cold as Harry stepped out onto the porch. Ginny stood near the garden, her back to the door.

"I didn't mean to upset you," Harry said softly.

Ginny finally turned to face him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears, "I know it's been two years, and I should be over this, but seeing you with someone else. It still hurts."

Harry dropped his gaze with a sigh, "I didn't bring Dani here to hurt you. I just want her to meet the people that mean the most to me. My family."

Ginny nodded and blinked back tears, "I know. It's just hard. I always thought we'd find our way back together, you know?"

Harry stepped closer, his hand reached out and gently rested on her shoulder but said nothing.

Ginny noticed the look in his eyes and nodded, "I know. I just need some time to adjust."

Word Count: 604 words

Challenges/Prompts:

Wicked Web – Harry x Ginny, Relationship: 3. Exes
Writing Club: Hogwarts Library – 15. Weasleys