Chapter 5
The Ring

That weekend was a blur. With the twins moving out to Diagon Alley and Fleur moving into the Twins room, the floo seemed to be constantly ablaze with people coming and going. Off of which Harry didn't mind. Business with friends was therapeutic. No one tried to kill him. He never felt dread… until….

"'Arry! Bill did not zay you would be 'ere!" Fleur greeted when she flamed in and finally were in the Burrow living room at the same time. She immediately ran to hug him.

Harry allowed her to hug him, and patted her on her back with one hand, mostly out of courtesy. "Hello, Fleur. How are you?" again more out of reflex than actually caring.

"I am well, zank you. My zister will be zo jealous that I'm meeting you again. She speaks zo often how she personally was zaved by the Chosen One!"

Harry visibly winced. Ginny raised an eyebrow when she took notice, but quickly flamed to Diagon Alley with another load for the Twins.

"Zo 'ave you come just to 'elp me move in? Zuch a gentlemo`n."

Clearing his throat. "Um, I am happy to help, but I'm living here now."

Fleur's eyes shot wide. "Really! Vonderful! It will be zo nice to 'ave time to talk when we are not preparing for zome great challenge."

"Sure," Harry replied, "But speaking of moving you in," he said to excuse himself from the encounter.

It wasn't until Sunday evening supper that everyone seemed to take a breath. Somehow with all the chaos of two boys out and and new girl in, Molly had worked her magic again, and even convinced the Twins to have a 'final' home cooked dinner. It was a table full similar to the Christmas parties that Harry had been invited to before.

Bill did make it to supper this time, largely because his fiancée was there, so he and Harry were able to have proper greetings, as compared to the statements in passing. Bill was able to give the other side of the banking visit.

"So a friend in accounting noticed activity on the Potter estate. And Harry it's common knowledge you're friendly to us." he grinned as he raised his drink. "So half as a security concern and half as courtesy to me, I get called up to Rockup's office. He casts an image of Harry, and my father in the office, and asks, 'Do you recognize these people?'

'Of course, I do, so I say so and clearly identify you two.'

Rockup asks, "Can you tell me why they are now interested in their bank activities?"

The table watched intently, wondering how this was going to end. The upside is that Bill was telling this story with a smile on his face.

"Frankly, I'm thinking to myself, 'Every galleon,' but I'm smart enough to do the quick math and said, as proper as I can, 'It's my understanding Potter is of age next year. He is likely taking stock of his assets. If you are fortunate, we may be able to persuade him to look into our investment portfolios.'"

"Rockup inhales deeply and stirs, which is about as excited as he ever gets, and goes 'Mr. Weasley, your efforts to leave a positive impression of Gringotts with Master Potter, would be greatly appreciated.' Bill sipped his drink, then emphasized "And yes, he actually called you that, multiple times."

The family had another laugh passed around 'Master Potter,' to Harry.

"I tell him, 'Yes sir, of course,' and I assume it's done and start leaving. But Rockup stops me, and specifically asks, 'Where did your father learn to negotiate?'

Bill paused for the suspense. "I was stumped for an answer, because I sure as hell wasn't going to lie to the Accounts Manager. So I simply say, 'He works for the government.' And I turned around walked straight back to my office before I broke out in laughter."

The family laughter crescendoed.

"So Harry, mate, be a chap next year and buy a couple shares of stock." Bill said, laughing. "I'll be a newlywed then. It would be nice to still be employed!" At the mention of their wedding Fleur did lean over to share a kiss with Bill, which caused many eyes to roll. Harry watched politely, it seemed like they loved each other.

"So Mr. Weasley, since I need to head to the Alley tomorrow, I figured I thought I might pick up a few things, if that's all right."

"Your money Harry, what were you thinking?"

"Well I thought I might take a page from Hermione, and pick up the Sixth year textbooks, maybe study ahead."

"Have you gone mental?!" Ron asked, dropping his fork on the plate.

Ginny immediately put a hand on Harry's forehead, "He has a fever. Ron you get the dittany, I'll get the ice. NOW!"

Molly was about to scold till he saw Harry actually laughing along.

Arthur continued. "I don't have any issue with that Harry, but I would like it if you would take one of us along. Keep you company. I need to get back to the Ministry tomorrow."

Bill noted, "I'm actually working on something for you for tomorrow."

Harry cocked his head to the side in curiosity. "Really, what?"

"It's a surprise mate, you'll see tomorrow."

"Shop." Twins replied.

Molly noted, "I'm actually a bit swamped catching up around the Burrow."

"I would normally be all over that idea, but I start up with Mr. Diggory tomorrow." Ron said. "If it were any other neighbor, I'd just say come along, but…"

Harry nodded. "Cedric, I get it." Harry did catch Fleur lowering her head for a moment and Bill whispered to her. "I know everyone's working, this was more, 'trying to let you know where I was going.'"

Then to his left, a hand fell on to his knee. "I'm available, Harry. Day off." Ginny said with a smile.

Arthur and Molly had another conversation of passing expressions, and Harry could swear he saw the slightest indications of a nod from Molly.

"Well, that sounds splendid then. "Arthur said with approval, "Just keep an eye open and bring 'em home safe."

"Yes, sir."

"Actually," Arthur corrected with a grin, "I was talking to my daughter."

Another round of laughter. Harry did look to his left. "Brilliant."

- - -
Monday morning was another blur of activity as the household all rose, got ready, ate breakfast, and out the door. As the ones with no fixed schedule Harry and Ginny helped with morning clean up, till Molly released them. "I can handle the rest. Thank you all very much. What is the plan for the day?"

Harry raised fingers as he counted, "Gringotts first, Flourish & Botts, some odds and ends, anything Ginny wants."

"Anything… Master Potter?" she repeated with a smirk as she rounded the corner. Harry couldn't help but notice she was in a burgundy blouse, and with trousers, no ponytail, opting to let her hair be free for the day. As usual, she radiated both energy and beauty.

"I'm going to regret that phrasing, aren't I?"

"We'll see." she replied with a smirk.

Molly was already chuckling. "And when will you be back?"

Ginny's eyes rolled.

"After lunch, before supper?" Harry answered. Slipping his charmed pack over his shoulder.

Molly finally relented, "Alright, but seriously you too, have fun, both of you."

They flamed to the Leaky Cauldron. "Thank Merlin!" Ginny exclaimed as soon they arrived on the other side. "I thought she'd never let us leave." As they started heading to the Alley.

"Eh, your Mum's not so bad. Just cares."

"I know but… argh." She shook it off and looked at Harry with a smile. "On to our day!"

Harry couldn't help but return the smile. "Thanks in advance for coming with me."

"Why ever wouldn't I?" she asked with a puzzled look.

Harry shrugged. "You know, not want to upset Dean or anything."

"Dean?" she repeated in true surprise, "What does he have to do…" then she gasped and covered her mouth, and started laughing.

Harry stopped very confused. "Okay Gin, I think I missed a punchline, or the entire joke."

"There is no Dean. Well there is, obviously, you know him. But that line on the train wasn't meant for you. That was for Ron!" still giggling.

Harry still looked perplexed.

"Okay, we can agree that Ron can be a nosy prat sometimes?"

"I'll even give you 'often' Gin."

"Thank you, well because he is, I like to throw him some red herrings, and send him on a wild goose chase or two. I know it's a bit mean, but it is SO funny to watch sometimes. That is all Dean was. Like I said last night Harry," holding her hand out with a sly grin. "I'm available."

In a singular moment, every singular nerve in his body came alive and felt electric. Every voice in his head seamed to cry and joy to the heavens above.

Externally, Harry replied "Brilliant" and couldn't resist a smile from ear to ear as he took her hand and continued walking.

"So, since we're on this subject of dating and such, can I ask you a question, Harry?"

"I meant what I said, Gin. I am trying to be pretty open now."

"Alright, let's test this theory."

Harry's eyes started to roll. "Merlin." he whispered.

"Yesterday when Phlegm showed up…"

"Oh, wow, you're going for the throat right from the start."

"You know me, Harry. Anyway, when Phlegm showed up…you were … far less … enthusiastic about her presence than before. Ron can't seem to stop drooling. What gives?"

Harry, thought for a moment. He was having a run of good days. Murphy's law was bound to show up any time. How far should he push his luck? Then he remembered the word's that got him on this path. 'What the hell.' Harry shrugged and said, "Meh, I've developed a thing for redheads."

She stopped dead in her tracks and to look at him. "Harry James Potter!" Ginny 's face was a mix of shock and joy. "Are you actually flirting with me?!"

"The lovely lady I get the day with? Absolutely."

"Careful Potter, flattery will get you." she continued walking.

"I think I'll risk it." Harry was elated to see Ginny seemingly beaming.

"Seriously though, why no shine for the veela?

"Okay… this one is a between you and me thing."

"Secrets? Today is my lucky day. Please do tell."

"Okay, yes I will acknowledge she's pretty. And as people are often different with someone they love than others, I'm not going to judge Bill and she."

"Oh.. I can hear the but."

"But… I have a unique point of view. One that was underwater, when she quit, leaving her sister to die. And especially after seeing what your family does for me, quitting when family is in danger… doesn't sit right with me. Now, maybe she ran into worse merpeople than me. Maybe something went wrong with her charm. I don't know, so I'm not going to judge too harshly… But courage and loyalty are important to me. You have that in spades, Gin. She doesn't."

Ginny gipped Harry's hand even tighter and reached over with her other hand to grab his elbow. "Someone is really trying to run up the scoreboard today."

"Can't win the prize if you don't score the points." Harry grinned both because Ginny seemed to be enjoying the time as much as he was and as the timing was perfect. "Oh look, Gringotts."

As they hit the steps Harry repeated what he had been told, "Remember, look bored."

Ginny shot him a dirty look, "I've been to Gringotts before, Harry."

"But never with Master Potter." Harry grinned. Ginny dawned a more restrained face and simply wrapped arms with Harry's left side.

They entered the lobby and saw the rows of tellers. Following the directions from Friday, he went to the first available goblin. "Master Potter for Manager Rockup, I'm expected."

The teller nodded, with a low gravelly voice. "Very good, sir. One moment."

Harry looked down to see still smirking, mostly from laughing at the ridiculousness of the moment.

It was only a moment or two when Rockup returned, will Bill behind him who seemed to take notice of the two of them together. Gin did let out a small giggle.

Rockup greeted them once again. "Master Potter, I trust you are familiar with Mr. Weasley."

Harry smiled but kept playing the part. "I am, and I am not disappointed. Mr. Weasley." Harry nodded.

Bill was smiling as well. "Master Potter," then he turned to Ginny. "Miss Weasley."

And to her credit, Ginny reciprocated. "Mr. Weasley."

Rockup either didn't notice or didn't care about the silliness of all of it. "Yes, Mr. Weasley has made the preparations as we discussed. If you have further needs do not hesitate to ask. Gringotts appreciates your patronage." After a nod from Harry, he was off.

"This way," Bill gestured, they needed to go further down the hall before they reached his office, which was half the size of Rockup's, but still well decorated. Bill closed the door after the pair, then raised an eyebrow. "Arm in arm, sister?"

"He's earned it today." Ginny happily reported. "And you're one to talk after he helped your fiancé move in."

Bill sat down behind his side of the desk. "Very true. And if I haven't said so yet, Thank you. And Ginny, I was only making an observation, no condemnation here."

"Happy to help, Bill. If I may ask, I thought you were a Curse Breaker?"

Bill sat back. "Still am. But with the family relationship known, they asked me to handle your requests personally." He sat up straight and straightened his tie. "The affairs of House Potter are of keen interest to Gringotts," Bill nobly delivered, "Frankly, I think they are scared you may withdraw everything. So… " he turned to the side and started picking up items he already had prepared. "As requested, the Statements of Account for House Potter. Gringotts has received verbal confirmation of Sirius's passing, my condolences Harry."

Harry nodded.

"With that we are empowered to pass onto you the Statement of Accounts for House Black. We do need some documentation from the Ministry, and I estimate 30 days. Thereafter Gringotts will be able to release the Black estate assets." Bill summarized as he laid copies of the ledgers in front of Harry.

"But what I suspect is the most important to you," Bill introduced as he pulled a small leather case and laid it before Harry.

Harry was in awe. A few days ago he didn't even know this existed. Something that was apparently a symbol of his father, and the entire family, now his. Fortunately, the Weasleys around him understood.

Ginny squeezed his arm with the warmest smile. "Go ahead, it's yours."

Bill agreed, "She's right. By every definition, that is absolutely the signet ring of one Harry James Potter, Master of House Potter."

Harry took another courage breath and pushed forward and opened the case. There was a platinum band with black gem shield, and what looked to be a silver helmet over it. "It has the traditional bonding spell on it." Bill explained, "Once you put it on, it will imprint on your unique arcane signature. Even if you take it off, no one else will be able to use it."

Harry had to shake the nerves out of his hand but once he did he slipped the family ring on. He could instantly feel warmth emanate out, and mix with his own magic, like milk into tea. The gem glowed for a moment, approving its new bearer. "It doesn't even need to be resized."

"Looks like a perfect fit then." Bill smiled. "Now back to where we were Friday. The Signatory page." Bill held a finger up. I have triple checked this. It is what you and Dad said, and I'm not seeing any… opportunities for Gringotts on this one. Name, address, signature, wand press, and signet ring." Harry completed it, and Bill smiled. That gets everything converted. As the conditions for each estate come to be they will be auto released to you. So, Bill smiled, "Now onto my surprise." Bill said with a smile. "Like you said, I'm a Curse Breaker by trade. I know my way around hex or two."

Ginny laughed, "He's being modest, or Gringotts wouldn't have hired you."

Bill shrugged. "Harry, you already have some important documents that you should probably keep safe, so… I made you this," as he laid a seemingly brown leather case down. "It's a dragon skin portfolio that I have personally enchanted. It is resistant to" Bill started counting with fingers, "piercing, slashing, bludgeoning, scrying, apparating, fire damage, and water damage. It has the expansion and featherlight charms. And…" he put both the records in and closed the portfolio wrapping around them. A red wax like seal was waiting on the cover flap. "Press your ring on it, Harry."

Harry did, and the wax glowed then melted and by its own movement flowed to create a seal between the flap and front cover. "Arcane lock, now keyed only to you, and if anyone besides you tries to open it, well it starts with electric shock and increases from there."

"Bill, that's bloody awesome. But you didn't have to."

Bill waved the comment off. "Right thing to do, Harry. Felt I owed it to you." The Weasley male let a few memories flow. "When you got caught up in the Tournament, Mum flamed. Said 'Harry's gotten into something.'

I said, 'What else is new?' "Sorry 'mate."

Both Ginny and Harry rolled their eyes. Harry admitted. "Fair point."

"Anyway, you know Mum. I came down, and that's how I met Fleur. So you may not have saved my life Harry, but you sure as hell improved it. Throw in the rest… you are aces in my book. And Fleur's too."

Harry held a hand. "Okay, stop, slow down, we are heading towards Chosen One territory and you know I hate that."

"Yes, Master Potter." Bill complied as Ginny sat laughing at all. "Well one more thing and well let you get on with your Da-a-y." Bill caught hex eyes from his sister and changed his words midway.

"I don't think even Dad understood how key some of his phrasing was. He had Rockup agree to 'all access rights'. 'All' is a very powerful word. That coupled with the volume of the estates you will be inheriting in the next year… well my friend, you've been granted Executive Status. That comes with a host of fringe benefits that I included with the papers already. Access to financial advisors, attorneys, priority meetings, blah, blah, blah, read it sometime when you are bored."

"The fun part is this," he said as he bright over a palm sized black disk with a brass edge. 'It's called a Coin Clam." A ruby was inlaid in the center of the clam. "Your ring again, Master."

Harry rolled his eyes, but could tell Bill was being kind here. He pressed his ring to the ruby and it glowed to life. "Charms and lock identical to the portfolio, with a notable exception, Dial on the side sets the amount, you do need to use your ring hand, but just press the button, and…" a galleon apparated to the desk. "Direct withdrawal from your bank account. No need for a lot of visits down here anymore, unless you want to visit your favorite brother, Gin."

"I don't know if I would say 'favorite', but this will put you in the running," she bantered back.

"Thank you Bill, very much."

Bill waved Harry off again. "Don't worry about it. Couple pointers on use." He stood up and came round the desk. "Start on the table. Press, hold, lift up. Gets you a presentable stack of coins, rather than shooting them out all over the place." Bill ran Harry through a practice stack. "Also, roll the dial all the way back to the beginning. Click and hold on top of the coins, then push down." The coins apprated back to the vault. "Direct deposit."

Harry chucked. "I love magic."

Bill did a review of his desk. "That is all I have for you today."

Ginny rose and gave her brother a hug. "Thank you."

"No problem sis, I like him too," he whispered back.

Ginny was the first out the door, but as Harry was leaving, Bill caught him with a much lower and direct voice. "Oi, Master Potter,"

Harry turned back to Bill with his arms crossed leaning against his desk. "That's my sister," he said with a knowing look and held a stern expression for a beat. Then... he smiled and put his hand out.

"Understood, sir." Harry said respectfully as he shook his hand.

"Dad is sir. I'm still Bill… just give her a good day."

"Absolutely,"

Ginny was waiting in the hall smirking. He unashamedly took her arm and headed out.

Author's note:

Yes, I make a slight canon change with making OOTP's few lines about Ginny liking Dean and made that a red herring for Ron. I wanted to write a Hinny story and didn't want to invest energy in text I have no interest in. No pining, no breakup, etc. Dean will be fine, I have positive plans for him next book. But I am no fan of angst, so that was both the simplest way to address it, but it (pranking Ron) also felt exactly like something that Ginny would do. This clears the stage for Harry and Ginny to actually start and have some time and pages. Trust me, they each bring enough baggage to a relationship they create their own drama.