1. It's been a longer while

2. Thanks to reallybeth, my old reliable beta.

3. I have that Tumblr account JonRiptide, should probably update more there.

4. I'm also in discord, if you can find me

5. I read all reviews, even guest ones. I appreciate them. To the person who said that was stealing my idea... if they ended up writing that story with this premise... please share, I am curious to give a look at the alternate version.

6. Enjoy


"Minister of Magic? No bloody way!" Ron exclaimed the moment they all set foot back at the Burrow.

Harry stumbled after him, feeling every bit as dazzled as the others looked. Ginny's jaw had dropped, and standing next to the fireplace, even Hermione was speechless and taken aback.

"Is it really that hard to believe?" Older-Harry asked, casually brushing the soot off from his clothes.

No one needed to remind Harry how smart Hermione was. She had not only handled an impossible amount of classes the previous year, but she'd done so while preparing a legal defence for Buckbeak at the same time. Still, that didn't make the revelation any less shocking. In Harry's eyes, Hermione was a fourteen year old girl, not as a savvy witch aspiring to the highest position in all of Wizarding Britain.

The adult Hermione didn't look even remotely surprised by the conversation. She rolled her eyes and walked a few steps away, as if the very topic bothered her.

Ron had a dumbstruck expression, turning between the two Hermiones as if looking for answers. He shook his head, and voiced his mind, "I mean, she has the brains, and she is bossy… Merlin only knows how many barmy and useless laws Hermione has bothered to learn for Binn's class. And she's way older here. She must know heaps of rubbish by now," Ron conceded without hesitation, not minding Hermione's scowl. "Still… Minister? Sure you wouldn't rather work at a library? Or the Department of Mysteries?"

"Why? You don't think I'm good enough to be Minister?" Hermione faced him defiantly.

"Don't get your knickers in a twist. I wasn't going to say that," Ron snapped back. "It's just… Somehow I thought you would end up inventing some spell, or discovering some obscure piece of magic."

"I also thought that," Harry chimed in before Hermione could reply. He turned to the older Hermione, who was following the discussion attentively. "She talked about runes at the Ministry and, well, last year Hermione was all too interested in… you know, magical devices."

He stopped himself short from mentioning the Time-Turner in front of Ginny, who nevertheless raised a suspicious eyebrow.

The younger Hermione sighed. "I… Well, I've considered it. The Department of Mysteries has some exciting career paths," she admitted, hesitantly moving her eyes back to her older self. "I'm not sure what would have drawn me to politics."

The woman gave her a sympathetic look. "Unjust practices and some of the laws that enabled them," she answered firmly. "I became aware of them when I was not much older than you are now, and I've been doing my part to right those wrongs ever since. It can be a demanding job, but it has been deeply gratifying, I assure you."

The news seemed to make an impact on Hermione. She appeared visibly surprised, though there was that sudden interest too. Her brow soon furrowed as if she were already envisioning herself as the Minister of Magic, wondering what sort of things she could accomplish if she reached that goal.

"The people who usually run for Minister don't think like that, though," Ron said. "Dad says that at those levels they fight for power like a pack of vultures. They like to flaunt their haughty job titles when they run for Minister. They don't give a rat's arse about fixing unjust laws. And," he added, "Hermione's a muggleborn."

"So?" the younger Hermione retorted, crossing her arms.

"There has only been one muggleborn minister, and from what I've been told, they made his life a bloody nightmare! Do you really want to deal with those ruddy pricks?"

"Language," both Hermione's said at the same time.

Ginny let out a giggle at the scene, and even Harry was amused by the absurdity of both Hermiones reprimanding his friend.

"I don't think there's reason to worry about that, Ron," the older Harry intervened. "Times have truly changed. Also, as I hope you noticed, Kingsley Shacklebolt is not Cornelius Fudge. There are still people like Ambrose Haworth, but they're more annoying than ill-intentioned. They won't be a problem if Hermione wins this thing."

"Can she?" Ginny asked.

"Of course! I would dare say Hermione is the far favourite to win. She even has her own haughty job title to boast about. Don't you, Hermione?"

All eyes turned to the woman, who shot an annoyed look at the older Harry. She sighed. "It would appear that I'm one of those vultures Ron so eagerly tries to warn me about, because as it is, I happen to be the Head of the Department of Law Enforcement."

The young Hermione let out a squeal and covered her mouth.

Ron's eyes widened. "I- I didn't…" he stuttered, the tips of his ears flushed.

It appeared as if Harry was the only one in the room who didn't completely grasp the meaning of those words. He gathered it must have been an important position, but to be honest, he wasn't much aware of the hierarchy of the Ministry.

"Law Enforcement? Does she work with… me? You?" he asked his older self.

"I think she's your boss," Ginny said almost automatically, then quickly looked away.

Boss?

The older Harry looked amused. "That she is. Quite a nagging one when it comes to requesting paperwork, I might add," he said, ignoring the disapproving look from the older Hermione. "And it also means that she reports directly to Kingsley. Besides the Minister's, there is no higher ranking job than the one Hermione holds."

The time-travellers stared at the older Hermione as if she had grown a second head. They'd been so distracted by the new piece of information that they didn't even notice Mrs Weasley walking down the staircase.

"What is all this rattle about? Did everything go well at the Ministry?"

Older-Hermione sighed and replied, "Yes, the outcome was better than we'd hoped for. These arguments are all because they heard Kingsley wants me to run for Minister."

"Ah, yes. And have you decided yet?"

"I'm still considering it," Hermione stated.

Mrs Weasley smiled at her fondly. "Well, it's up to you, dear. But we all believe you'll do a fantastic job. And I don't need to remind you we're here for you, whatever you end up deciding."

"Thank you. I'll keep that in mind."

Older-Harry quickly recounted the events of the trip to Mrs Weasley. She appeared relieved, and told them they could stay at the Burrow for as long as they wanted. Even so, she understood when they expressed interest in following their older selves' plans.

"Have you mentioned your families to them yet?" Mrs Weasley asked, voicing the very thing on Harry's mind.

He couldn't help but wonder about Cho. Despite his heart doing a somersault at the possibility that she could be his wife, he thought it was perhaps better to not make assumptions. Cho could very well never see him like that.

Older-Harry scratched the back of his head. "We haven't had time for that conversation, no, but we need to take them to see my pensieve. I can probably talk to them while Hermione checks the memory."

Mrs Weasley seemed unsure. "They may meet some unexpected people there. You might want to prepare them beforehand."

Unexpected people. It's going to feel weird no matter who we see.

"We're a bit pressed for time," Older-Hermione chimed in.

The older Harry agreed. "I don't think it'll be an issue, Molly. The pensieve is at Stitchcombe, and everybody should be at Kinver today. I'll take our visitors to meet them once Hermione gets the memory and I have explained the basics."

The woman looked doubtful but didn't object as they gathered Floo Powder for everyone.

I'm seeing them today.

Harry was both scared and eager at the same time. He knew that meeting his future home and family might be uncomfortable at first, but he wanted to do it anyway. He wondered if he had more children, or if it was only James — the troublemaker with the blue backpack.

It took a moment for Harry to realise there was something he didn't quite grasp about his older self's words.

"Kinver?"

The older Harry adjusted his glasses. "Yes, um, how do I... You have houses. As in more than one… There's these two and… Well, Grimmauld Place…"

Harry blinked, bewildered. At his side, Ron and Ginny stared at him, wide-eyed.

"I would rather just have the one, but... You'll understand when you grow up," the older Harry explained. "Kinver is where we usually live; it's a small cottage just outside Birmingham. But that's not where the pensieve is. That's in a large country house at Stinchcombe. We got that house from our grandparents and we're stopping there first."

"Grandparents?" Harry asked, staggered at the surprise.

Older-Harry smiled awkwardly. "Yeah, I can see how that may be a bit of a shock… Listen, there are a few things you won't inherit until you're of age, and you'll learn more about the Potters' history through them. Not as much as you would like, I'm afraid, but some," the man's tone faltered a bit. "Fleamont and Euphemia Potter were their names — our grandparents, I mean. Good people, from what I've gathered and—"

"Harry? I'm sorry, but we really should get going," the older Hermione interrupted.

"Right. Well, you'll see the house with your own eyes, anyway. And we can talk about our family later," the man promised.

Harry nodded. "I would like that."

The situation was as strange as it could get. The way the man kept talking about their grandparents, and their houses was hard to get used to. Still, amidst the strangeness there was a glimmer of excitement. He'd never known much about his family to be honest, but the hope that he would get information about his past — any information really — thrilled Harry almost as much as the chance to meet his future children.

All of the time-travellers nodded in agreement and after saying goodbye to Mrs Weasley, they floo'd out of the Burrow.

o0o0o

Despite how spacious it was, the place they arrived at turned out to be surprisingly warm and welcoming. The walls were made of grey bricks and looked smooth and far newer than those at Hogwarts. The decorations and tapestries gave an air of elegance, while the couches by the fireplace looked expensive yet well-loved.

Harry stepped out of the fireplace, which could fit at least four people at once, and entered the grand living room with its high ceilings.

"Bloody hell..." Ron murmured in awe.

Hermione didn't scold him. She appeared as astonished by the place as the rest of the time-travellers.

"Welcome to the main Potter estate," Older-Harry said uncomfortably. "It's roomy, but not as old as you'd think. Most of the Potter wealth is rather recent. We don't use this place often, mostly for special occasions or holidays. It has a big Quidditch pitch, so there's that."

Older-Hermione cleared her throat.

"Right, the pensieve. Follow me."

"It's... massive," Ginny marvelled. "We could easily get lost here."

"Don't worry, I know my way around," the man reassured as he walked to the opposite side of the long living room. Ginny instantly blushed at his smile. "Come on, Hermione, both of you, the office isn't far—"

He was interrupted by a sudden pull to the side, as if some hidden force had grabbed him. Before anyone could react, a woman with bright red hair appeared next to him and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Slow and sloppy. Are you sure you're the Head Auror?" she asked in a muffled voice.

The woman stood on her tiptoes and gave Older-Harry a passionate kiss, oblivious to the stunned audience behind her. Harry stared, gobsmacked.

The woman was rather enthusiastic, and when she separated from Older-Harry, the man was without words. "Were you shouting something before I caught you?" asked the woman, mischievously running a finger along Older-Harry's jaw.

"Uh… Yes, listen…" he mumbled.

"What? Is it about our visitors? Did you send them back?" she asked in a soft voice, still holding onto Older-Harry's neck with one hand, while her other slowly traced his right ear.

It didn't take a genius to figure out this was Harry's future wife. Although Harry could only see her back, the fiery red hair was a dead giveaway that she wasn't Cho. He didn't even have time to feel disappointment; he was too embarrassed for that at the moment. The woman's voice was making him nervous, though there was something familiar about it.

At least, it's not Hermione, he thought.

The others were silent, everyone too stunned to interrupt the woman. Still, a sly smile soon formed on Hermione's face. A few steps away, Ginny looked completely flabbergasted for some reason.

Unlike the woman, Older-Harry was aware that he had an audience. His voice became anxious as he kept glancing back. "Not yet. We haven't figured out how— Look, there's something I really need to—"

"You're going back to work, aren't you?" The red-haired woman faked a pouting voice. She leaned closer to Older-Harry, speaking in a softer tone. "Is there any chance Hermione went home to check on the time- travel rubbish? The kids are outside, maybe she can watch them for a tic so we can—"

Older-Hermione coughed with haste, finally daring herself to interrupt. The redheaded woman spun at once, gasping as her face turned a subtle shade of pink. "Hermione would love to help, but unfortunately she has to return to work shortly," said the older version of Hermione.

Harry got his first clear view of the redheaded woman, and she was stunning. Maybe she was around Older-Harry's age, though she looked a tad younger. She was a bit on the shorter side, with an athletic build and a face that Harry found beautiful. The tiny freckles that dotted her cheeks suited her perfectly.

Harry furrowed his brow as he studied the surprised woman. He knew he'd seen her before. He was sure of it.

"Uh... Hi H-Hermione..." The woman stuttered, scanning all the time-travellers with her brown eyes. Without turning, she spoke to Older-Harry next. "You didn't tell me you were bringing them here."

"We didn't know. It just happened. You were supposed to be at Kinver."

"Well, the World Cup finals are tomorrow, mister. I needed to organise my notes before the trip. The Quidditch pitch seemed like a good idea to keep the kids busy." The woman's gaze fell on the younger Harry and Ginny.

"Did they know?" she asked, "They don't look like they knew."

"That's because they didn't," answered Older-Hermione in a reproachful tone. "Harry was supposed to explain everything after. He was certain you wouldn't be here."

"Introduce me, then," the redheaded woman demanded, nudging Older-Harry with her elbow.

Older-Harry let out a heavy sigh. "Everyone, this is my wife, Ginevra Potter."

Ginervra Potter. Ginevra. Why of course!

The woman glared at him. "Ginevra? Really?"

Ginny let out a loud gasp and covered her mouth with both hands. Her eyes were wide and face bright red. She turned to Harry, but as soon as their eyes met, she looked away.

The smile spread across Hermione's face was wide and unapologetic. At some point, Ron's jaw had dropped. As for Harry... He was beyond shock.

"Oh Merlin, look at me," the supposed Older-Ginny said. "What year did you say they came from?"

"Almost my fourth, your third. Exactly one day before the Quidditch Cup," Older-Harry clarified.

"That explains the reaction."

Harry was completely baffled. He didn't know what to think. He'd known that Ginny had fancied him probably since the first time she'd seen him, but to him, she was just Ron's little sister! He couldn't wrap his head around how he would end up marrying the blushing girl standing next to Hermione.

"Gi-Ginny?" Ron asked.

"Hey, did you have a nice trip here?" the woman asked, awkwardly.

The bewilderment on Ron's face was strikingly obvious. He rapidly turned to Harry. "You fancy my sister? W-when… Why...?"

Harry was at a loss for words.

"Are you bloody nuts? We're best mates!"

"I didn't— I mean—" Harry replied.

Hermione was quick to turn towards Ron with a scowl. "You're overreacting. Harry didn't do anything wrong."

"But she's my little sister!"

"Ron, stop it!" Ginny yelled with a temper that Harry had rarely seen from her, if ever. Her face had yet to return to its normal colour.

Harry thought he should apologise, though he wasn't sure how. He couldn't understand how he ended up married to Ginny. He was still trying to process it all.

The older people were taken aback by Ron's sudden outburst, but Older-Ginny quickly regained her composure. "Ron, leave him alone."

Ron's frown vanished, and he stared at the woman in clear bewilderment. When he spoke again, his voice was softer, "But he's supposed to be my friend. He can't just go around snogging Ginny... You."

"He sure as hell can! He's my husband and I'll snog his brains out whenever I want, whether you like it or not! Now stop this rubbish!" she shouted, with a fire in her expression that impressed Harry just as much as her words.

Slightly behind her, the older Harry blushed. Both Harry and Ginny turned to each other, then quickly away. Harry felt his face burning with embarrassment.

Ron looked frightened. "But—"

"But nothing! You wouldn't want me saying you can't snog Hermione in your own house, would you?"

Both Hermione and Ron's eyes widened in shock. The girl turned to her older self, the latter who simply gave her a weak smile and an apologetic shrug.

"I-I-It can't be..." Hermione turned nervously to Ron, her cheeks covered by a subtle tone of pink..

Older-Ginny put a hand to her forehead. "They didn't know that either, did they?" she asked her husband, who shook his head. "Then what do they know?"

"That they're in the future until we can send them back," the man explained. "We were going to tell them about our families here."

Harry stood still, unsure if he should say something. The past few minutes had been mind-boggling. He tried to make sense of the fact that Ron and Hermione were apparently together in the future — had Harry missed a sign for that? Weren't they fighting all the time? At any rate, and as distracting as that new revelation was, his thoughts kept drifting back to Ginny over and over again. When did he fall in love with her? How? Did anything ever happen with Cho?

"Sorry for interrupting," Older-Hermione broke in. "I can only imagine what my younger self must be feeling right now, and I wish I could talk to her more about it. But unfortunately, it'll have to wait. The pensieve is really urgent."

"Uh... Sure. Follow me," Older-Harry said before turning to his wife. "Can you keep an eye on them for a bit? Don't hex Ron, perhaps?"

"I'll make no such promises," the woman said, giving him a peck on the lips as the man walked out of the room. Ron huffed while Harry and Ginny avoided making eye contact. The two versions of Hermione followed Older-Harry out of the room, with the younger one giving Ron a disapproving look before joining the rest.

They sat down at Older-Ginny's request, each one taking a separate couch. Older-Ginny snorted at that, and after a brief moment, she walked towards Harry. The young Ginny gasped as the older woman casually took the spot next to the boy. She pulled her curtain of bright red hair behind her ear and smiled at him. Harry gulped.

"Mind telling me everything that happened?" Older-Ginny asked softly.

Harry nodded and stumbled through an explanation of their visit to the Ministry. By the time he was finished, the others had returned from the pensieve. Older-Hermione seemed content and held a piece of paper in her hand.

"I need to go back now. I have to prepare for tomorrow's trip and discuss this drawing with some people," she announced. "Harry, are you coming with me?"

The man wavered, looking at his wife before nodding. "I need to finish some last-minute preparations for tomorrow. I was planning on taking them to Kinver and asking you if you could keep an eye on them, Gin. But if you can't—"

"It's fine. I'll manage," Older-Ginny assured him, giving a curious glance at the young versions of them.

Older-Hermione sighed. "Would it be imposing if I left mine as well? We can come back for them this afternoon," she asked, sounding almost like a motherly figure to her younger self and Ron.

"Of course they can stay here, but be aware, I'll hex Ron if I have to," Older-Ginny playfully warned.

"Absolutely," Older-Hermione agreed with a smile.

Ron flinched in his seat.

"They can stay here as long as you want. We have plenty of space," added Older-Harry. "If it's easier, we can take them to the Quidditch game and meet you there."

But Older-Hermione shook her head. "Thank you, but that won't be necessary. I believe Rose and Hugo would love to meet them. I'll come pick them up later."

"Rose? Hugo?" Ron asked.

"The kids. Our kids. You'll adore them. They talk only about Quidditch and nonsense like that," Older-Hermione gushed. Ron and Hermione blushed deeply at the mention of having children together.

Once Older-Harry and Older-Hermione left, the time-travellers were left staring uneasily at Older-Ginny. Harry wondered if it would have been less uncomfortable to stay at the Burrow with Mrs Weasley. He had no idea how to act around this older version of Ginny. She was ravishing, and had a brazen confidence that intimidated Harry. Was she really Ginny? The younger version had always been so shy and proper…

Blimey! The younger Ginny! How am I even going to look her in the face now?

The older version of Ginny spoke aloud, "Dingly."

Suddenly, a creature materialised out of thin air. At first, Harry thought it was Dobby, only with much cleaner and nicer clothes. Upon closer inspection, he realised it was a female house-elf, and figured she was the one who happened to take care of all domestic duties in the large house.

Hermione studied the elf carefully, but before she could say anything, the older Ginny revealed that Dingly was well-treated and even had a day off. She also informed them of a law made by Older-Hermione to ensure these standards were upheld for all elves — quite a surprise to all of them.

"Dingly, can you please prepare two rooms for our guests?" the woman asked.

"Right away, mistress."

Once the elf had disappeared, Older-Ginny let out a sigh and said, "I wish she would just call me Ginny. Anyway, feel free to make yourselves at home. If you need anything, just let me or Dingly know. We can go meet the kids now, if you'd like."

The woman's gaze fell on Harry and her younger self, both who both nodded hesitantly in response.

o0o0o

Harry and his friends stepped outside, still pretty shaken by their recent discoveries. Meeting his future children made Harry nervous, but it was hardly the only thing on his mind at this point.

The first look at the exterior of the property distracted him though. The Potters' house was a large and simple grey rectangle, with only two high-ceiling stories. By the looks of it, one could even guess that it was owned by muggles, as there was no hint of magic in its appearance. There was a small town down the hill, but no other buildings nearby. The lawn surrounding the house was neatly cut, and it lacked the extravagant gardens so common to posh houses in movies. Nevertheless, Harry did notice the sizable Quidditch pitch on one end of the property, with players currently soaring around the hoops nearest to him.

It took him only a few seconds to realise just who those people were.

"James! Al! Come over here!" Older-Ginny called out to the open space, her voice easily carrying to where they were flying. "And bring your sister too!"

The figures stopped midair and raced towards them at top speed. Two of them were neck and neck, while the third lagged behind. As they approached, it became clear that they were two boys on brooms, competing in a race to get to them. The front runner eventually broke away from the ground and jumped off his broom with a triumphant grin, catching it back in midair.

"Told you I'd win!" he taunted the other boy who arrived just after him. He had dark hair and round glasses, with small freckles dotting his face. Harry recognised him as James, the boy who brought them to this future.

"Wow! They're here! Are they going to stay? Will they come to the game?" James asked excitedly. The physical resemblance to Harry was noticeable, yet the boy's impish smile definitely reminded him of the twins.

"It seems like it. They'll be staying for a while, but we don't know for how long," Older-Ginny replied.

"Hear that, Al?"

The four time travellers were still staring at James' resemblance to Harry when the second boy stepped forward, causing them to gasp in surprise. Al was younger, but he looked way more like Harry than James did. Unlike his brother, he had deep green eyes, but he didn't wear glasses.

"Brilliant!" the boy said.

"Why didn't you wait for your sister? I told you to bring her along," Older-Ginny scolded them.

"She's on her way," James responded confidently.

As soon as he finished speaking, a third broom appeared carrying a young girl with vibrant red hair. Although her face wasn't as similar to Ginny's as Al's was to Harry's, there was no doubt she was their daughter.

The girl beamed upon seeing them. "They're really here! She looks exactly like your pictures, Mum," she exclaimed, staring at a blushing and stunned Ginny.

Harry thought he saw Ginny hiding a smile in the corner of her mouth.

"These are my children: James, Al, and Lily," Older-Ginny introduced, placing her hand on each of their shoulders in turn. Harry greeted them politely, hoping his cheeks weren't as flushed as they felt.

All of this was madness. He still couldn't wrap his mind around Ron's shy sister being his future wife, much less the fact they had three kids in the future. However, he also couldn't deny he was at least in part happy about what he'd found. The five of them appeared to be a happy family — something Harry had always wished for — and two of the kids were even named after his parents.

"Nice to meet you," said Hermione.

James was the first to shake her hand. "Hey, Aunt Hermione! Cool teeth!"

"James!"

"Sorry, Mum," the boy quickly apologised as Hermione covered her mouth. Harry remembered that older-Hermione's front teeth hadn't seemed as large as Hermione's did now. She must have had them changed at some point.

Soon enough, everyone from the past was greeting the Potter children. Lily was especially affectionate towards Ginny and Harry, hugging them tightly — much to their embarrassment.

"They're not taller than James," she commented offhandedly.

"Well, they're the same age as him, dear," Older-Ginny corrected with a knowing look towards Harry and Ginny. "James is about to start his fourth year too. He's quite talented — we're expecting great things from him. After all, if he can bring people forward in time, imagine what he can achieve with his O.W.L.s in just two years!" She added with a pointed look towards James.

Al smirked as his brother struggled for a response.

Harry couldn't help but grin. He would be going back to Hogwarts with them in a few days, and if James was in fourth year as well, that would mean they would be sharing classes. It was a surreal thought to be sure, but Harry felt oddly thrilled for the experience.

"You can play Quidditch for a bit. We'll grab some lunch afterwards," Older-Ginny suggested.

"Perfect! We have enough people to make it an actual game. It'll be better than trying to teach Lily how to fly," James chimed in.

"I want Mum and Dad on my team!" Lily exclaimed, eagerly dragging Harry and Ginny towards her.

Harry and Ginny shared a brief, terrified look, though they didn't push the girl away.

Ron opened his mouth to object, but after receiving a stern look from Older-Ginny, he quickly changed his tune and looked away.

"Are you playing too, Mum?" Al asked.

"I think I'll sit this one out and work on my notes," Older-Ginny replied, pulling out a notepad. "I'm sure Hermione will join me on the sidelines. Although, it's completely fine if she wants to play instead," she added, turning to the girl.

Hermione shook her head. "No, I'll watch with you. Thank you, Mrs—"

"Don't you dare finish that sentence," Older-Ginny warned her. "Just call me Ginny. Even if it gets confusing at times," she said with a pointed look at her younger self.

"I'll watch with you as well, Ginny," Hermione corrected herself, awkwardly.

Harry understood that feeling all too well. Their older selves were both familiar and foreign at the same time, making it difficult to know exactly how to act around them. He was especially afraid of the older Ginny. In just a few short minutes, he could already sense her vibrant and outgoing nature — something completely different to the Ginny he knew. The change intrigued him, making him wonder when it had occurred.

Maybe this Ginny had always been hiding under the surface? If that's so, it has passed over me.

Out of the blue, Ron exclaimed, "Ginny doesn't play Quidditch!"

"Excuse me?" The redheaded woman spun around to face him.

James openly laughed.

"Mum used to play for the Holyhead Harpies, you know," said Al.

There was silence. Ron stared at everyone in disbelief, as if looking for signs of the words being a joke. Finally, he exclaimed, "No bloody way!"

Older-Ginny chuckled. "I can sign a poster for you later if you'd like."

Harry was gobsmacked by the news as well, but decided against saying anything. He had no idea that Ginny Weasley could play Quidditch, much less that she would be good enough to play for a professional team.

"I retired before James was born. Now I work for the Daily Prophet as a sports correspondent. I'm currently covering the World Cup, but had to come back home for some things before the finale. My pen wields great power," she joked, waving her notepad in front of them. "Anyway, I still play for fun sometimes."

The younger Ginny was beaming as if Christmas had come in August this year.

"Mum and Dad are with me, then," Lily insisted, still holding onto their hands tightly. Their faces were flushed red, but they didn't dare let go of the little girl's hand. It wouldn't be right to upset their recently discovered daughter.

"Fine! Do whatever you want," James huffed. "We'll take Uncle Ron. Mum and Dad don't know squat about playing Keeper." The boy stuck his tongue out at his sister.

"I don't care!"

The older Ginny gave little Lily a knowing look. She must've known James was right. From his experience, Harry knew a Keeper could make or break a team. That made him remember his own timeline, where he'd given more than one thought to the Gryffindor Quidditch team. It was going to be a challenge to find a Keeper who was half as good as Oliver Wood had been.

"Give them our brooms, James. You know which ones," Older-Ginny said, winking at Harry and her younger self. "Pick a good one for your uncle too. Maybe he'll stop being a prat after that."

The brooms were incredible. Ginny was handed a professional one – the newest version of Harry's Firebolt. Her eyes shone with disbelief as she gripped the handle in her trembling fingers. From a bench on the side of the pitch, Older-Ginny grinned like a Cheshire cat.

Harry received a Nimbus 3000 from James, which was also an impressive broom. Ron didn't complain because he got a Nimbus 2500, by far the best broom he'd ever ridden. He didn't look angry anymore.

A sudden gasp caught the boys' attention and they turned to see Ginny. She had discovered a golden inscription at the top of her Firebolt: Ginny Potter 7.

With her number next to it, it was apparently the same broom that Older-Ginny used to play with for the Harpies. Harry blushed, but not as much as Ginny, who stared in shock. James was standing close by, laughing while Ron glared at them all.

"You're lucky. Mum never lets us use her broom," Al said. "Especially because James has broken so many already."

James snorted and waved his hand dismissively as if this wasn't a big deal. He studied Ginny attentively, which made the girl nervous. "She's still our mum, isn't she? Nothing strange about her using her own broom."

Lily had a smaller broom, albeit an extraordinary one for a girl her age. It had a sleek design and was painted entirely red. The words 'Red Comet' were written on one side. "Are we going to play or what?" she asked eagerly.

As soon as Harry took off into the air, he could feel the power and speed of his new broom. It seemed even faster than his Firebolt, which made sense because this design was twenty years newer. Nearby, Ron circled around the pitch with a daft grin on his face. It took Harry a moment to realise Ginny was still on the ground.

"What's the problem? Show that brother of yours how it's done," Older-Ginny yelled from afar, her hands cupped around her mouth. "You can even grab my gloves if you want!"

Ginny shook her head and slowly flew over to Lily, keeping as much distance from Harry as possible. She must have noticed how fast the broom was, as her eyes widened, but she never lost control.

As expected, it was an incredibly unfair match. James and Al were skilled Chasers, particularly James, but Ron was the key player. He wasn't a perfect Keeper by any means, but he managed to block many of the shots while Harry struggled on the other end of the field. Harry was practically a sieve in front of the hoops.

At one point, Older-Ginny yelled from afar, "Hermione says that was a great save, Ron! She's keeping a close eye on you!" Even from a distance, it was clear how amused Older-Ginny was, while Hermione seemed mortified by her words, burying her face in her hands. Ron nearly fell off his broom from the shock.

Harry couldn't blame his best mate for being flustered. He felt just as uncomfortable about his situation with Ginny. He was curious as to how they ended up together, but wasn't sure if he should talk to her about it. Knowing that their memories would eventually be erased made it even more complicated.

Midway through the match, a frowning Lily approached Harry, wanting to try being the Keeper. After he saw Older-Ginny nodding, Harry hovered to the front next to Ginny.

"So… ehm… Should we try evening things out?" Harry proposed, trying to remain calm despite his own nerves.

A tentative smile came to the girl as she nodded in agreement.

"She's not that good!" Ron taunted from the opposite side of the field.

Ginny's smile vanished, her mouth turning into a frown. Surprisingly, this seemed to bring out her competitive side, as Harry watched her fly through the air, fiercely determined to score as many goals as possible against Ron. She proved to be just as skilled as James, using some clever moves and feints that left her sons and even Ron frozen.

In the end, they still lost. But Harry couldn't help but feel impressed by Ginny's hidden talents.

"That was brilliant. You should definitely try out for the team when we get back," Harry praised her as they flew down.

For the first time since the match started, Ginny seemed to lose control of her broom for a tic. Her sour expression from the defeat instantly turned into one of joy at his words, making it clear that he had made her day.

o0o0o

The lunch was a peaceful affair, with everyone avoiding any potentially embarrassing topics and focusing mainly on their food. Ginny kept her eyes fixed on her plate, but Harry couldn't help but notice the smile on her face throughout the entire meal. Ron was in high spirits as well, as he discussed the latest game with Harry and his sons — both who turned out to be easy to get along with as long as Harry didn't dwell on who their mother was. Hermione remained mostly quiet, but didn't appear to be uncomfortable.

"The food is quite good," she complimented after a while.

"Dingly made it. Mum doesn't cook," James said.

It was Older-Ginny's time to blush. "I do! I cook! Just not very often. I have a job, you know."

It seemed that Weasley's Wizard Wheezes, which Harry had learned about before being sent into the future, had become quite successful. It was a full-fledged joke shop now, where Ron worked with George. Older-Ginny mentioned that Fred was looking into opening a different branch somewhere else. There was something odd in her expression at that last part, but Harry couldn't quite put his finger on it.

After lunch, Older-Ginny took the girls aside to have a chat, leaving Harry and Ron with the boys. At first, there was an awkward silence between them, as they didn't know what to do or say, but it quickly dissipated after Al mentioned the magic words.

"Wizarding Chess?" he asked, and Ron's face lit up.

They were still playing in the living room a couple of hours later, when green flames suddenly burst from the fireplace and three people entered. The older versions of Harry and Hermione were there, but this time they were joined by a very tall redheaded man.

The man looked at them intently, with a wide grin on his face. "There they are! This is mad! Hard to believe until you actually see them but— Wait, I could have sworn I was taller at that age," said Older-Ron.

"I noticed too. Guess we remember fourth year by the Yule Ball. You were definitely taller by then, I think."

Older-Hermione snorted. "It was probably that dress he was wearing."

"Oi! It wasn't a dress. They were formal robes, and if I remember correctly— You know what? Forget it."

The three older people shared a laugh as Harry and Ron stared at them. After spending so much time with the younger versions of his friends, it was bizarre to witness the three grown-ups like that.

"Hey! How was work?" Al asked, walking to them.

"Dull compared to your day, that's for sure. Just tedious paperwork," replied Older-Harry, ruffling the boy's black hair.

"Paperwork is the bloody worst," agreed Older-Ron.

The older Hermione huffed.

"You made it interesting at times," the older Harry admitted. "Remember the time you sent a squad to Leicester instead of Leominster?"

"Will you ever let that go?! It was an accident! 'Sides, I would have found out, eventually."

James stood up from his game against Ron, clearly not too invested in a Wizarding Chess match he was about to lose. "We played Quidditch, it was great. But you could use some practice as Keeper," he teased.

Harry blushed and looked down at the floor. Older-Harry didn't miss that. "I'm surely not that bad."

"You're rubbish as Keeper, mate. Just accept it," chimed Older-Ron, causing everyone to burst into laughter.

The noise must have alerted the girls, who walked in a moment later. As soon as Lily saw the newcomers, she ran to Older-Harry and gave him a crushing hug.

With little effort, Harry spun her around before placing her back next to him. "How's my big girl? Did your brothers let you play?"

Lily nodded eagerly. "We had so much fun! I was with you and Mum — little-Mum that is. You were the Keeper, but you were dreadful," she giggled.

The group shared a laugh as Older-Harry looked defeated.

"So, another boring day?" Older-Ginny asked, casually walking over and giving her husband a quick kiss on the lips. Harry blushed for the umpteenth time that day.

"It's getting better," her husband answered.

Older-Ron didn't seem bothered in the least. However, he must've realised something, because his eyes moved to his younger self. "Is he — little-me — Is he giving you trouble?"

"Not too much since we mentioned you and Hermione," answered Older-Ginny.

Both Ron and Hermione pretended not to hear, but Harry noticed their furrowed brows and flushed cheeks.

"Good. I'll talk to him later," promised the red-haired man. "Now, uh... little-me, little-Hermione, come here. It's time to go."

The young Hermione said farewell. She hugged Harry and whispered, "She's a great girl; we'll talk more later."

Hermione walked to her older self, throwing cautious looks at the older Ron. When the man waved and smiled, she blushed.

Thankfully, Ron didn't look upset when he said his goodbyes. "See you at the game, mate. I can't believe I don't have a favourite."

"It's Brazil," said Older-Ron with total certainty.

James grinned in support.

"That's not what Hugo thinks," Al started.

"Hugo has been hanging out with George way too much lately. Listen to Rosie, or me. It's Brazil," Older-Ron insisted. "I don't know what's gotten into Hugo, really."

"Ron! There's nothing wrong with Hugo," chided Older-Hermione. "You shouldn't pit them against each other like that. It's perfectly fine if they support different teams."

Older-Ron turned to Older-Harry and joked, "She'll never understand Quidditch, mate."

A look of exasperation crossed Older-Hermione's face.

"You're welcome to stay for a while, if you'd like," Older-Ginny proposed.

"It would be nice, but my children spend too much time in that joke shop as it is. And they must already know we have visitors. They must be on their toes with anticipation waiting to meet them," Older-Hermione answered.

Soon enough, the two Rons and two Hermiones were ready to leave, though the younger versions seemed to be trying to keep as much distance between themselves as possible.

"Oh come on, she won't bite," teased Older-Ron to his younger self. "Well, maybe if things get a little heated—"

"RON!" scolded Older-Hermione, turning bright red. Even so, it was the younger versions who blushed more furiously. Hermione's jaw even dropped in shock.

"Gross. We did not need that mental image, right?" exclaimed Older-Ginny to her younger self, who shook her head vigorously.

"No one did!" James agreed with a shudder.

The fireplace burst into flame, and soon they were gone. Older-Harry relaxed onto the couch, eager to hear all about the Quidditch match, particularly any moments involving Lily. Across the room, Ginny seemed uncomfortable in this family setting, though she appeared less jittery than before. She didn't speak much but did share a couple of laughs. Harry kept throwing her bewildered looks every now and then, which didn't pass unnoticed by the two adults. Older-Harry whispered something to his wife, and Harry was sure it had something to do with him.

Their older selves gave them a tour of the house and shared some family stories, promising there was still much to talk about, but that they would take it one bit at a time. When the day came to an end, Lily said her goodnights and gave Harry a warm hug. The little girl even convinced him to say goodnight to Ginny and give her a hug as well. Older-Ginny looked amused.

"Sleep well, we'll wake you up early tomorrow. There's a portkey to catch," she reminded them.

"I can't believe that it's really tomorrow. It's going to be amazing!" James exclaimed as they headed upstairs.

Harry's room was not only spacious, it was also cosy. The drawers were filled with clothes that fit him perfectly, and the bed was large with comfortable sheets. He was surprised to find a picture of his parents on a small nightstand by the side.

It wasn't until he was lying in bed with all the lights off that Harry realised he had forgotten to ask his older self about Sirius.

I'll ask tomorrow. There's no reason why I can't see him too. Perhaps he's an official free man now and he'll also be there at the World Cup.

The Quidditch World Cup. That ought to be loads of fun. Ron and Hermione would be there with their family — Merlin, was that still awkward to think about. They would all have a great time, and then they would head to Hogwarts, where they would be attending classes with Harry's children. He couldn't wait.

It took some time for him to fall asleep as he replayed the events of the day in his mind. He wasn't sure what he'd expected when they were first told about their future, but aside from a few surprises, it seemed like he now had a good life. He would become Head Auror and own an even faster broom. Sure, Cho was missing from this future, and Harry couldn't help but wonder where she was, but it didn't bother him as much as he thought it would. In fact, he quite liked what he saw that day. His future self looked happy and his home was filled with love.

Harry couldn't help feeling envious, as he knew that once it was all over, he would have to forget everything and return to the Dursleys.

By the time he finally drifted off to sleep, he had stopped thinking about Privet Drive. Even so, a different thought continued to swirl in his mind. One that intrigued him far more than he had ever imagined: Ginny Weasley.


Next Chapter: A Pack of Redheads