Chapter 7: Love in the Air

'Do you have no one you love then? Do you mean to say that at the age you are, you never thought of dating?' Gawain wanted to know. 'Oh, I love her alright,' Potter promised. 'Enough to let her live her life without my shadow hanging over her. Have you ever loved someone like that?' Gawain's heart contracted. It was impossible to talk to this boy for any length of time and not feel pity for his trainwreck of a life. 'My Nellie is a muggle and knows better than to ask for marriage. She knows the dangers of an auror's wife well. And I couldn't ask her to leave her muggle job. Then there are her two boys to worry about. But she also knows I love her and that we are meant to be together. Just think about that.' He examined potter's face for a few more moments. It seemed that he too had a lot to think about.

Arthur Weasley was grateful for the distraction that the upcoming family party provided to both his wife and children. The atmosphere in his house had been far too gloomy in recent times. But who could blame a mother who had lost her son? That was one reason why he had been selfishly happy for a moment when the Daily Prophet had published that godforsaken story about Harry's past. It had meant Molly had, since then, focussed on pampering someone who she could. He let out a sigh. That young man had been isolating himself even further. It was hurting Ginny, he knew. He did not like it but he had to admit that Harry had grown past his command. They all had, even Ginny, who was still technically not seventeen. The effects of war, he reflected.

While Arthur had never regretted getting involved with the Order, he sometimes did wish that he could have contributed more, monetarily. His family had never been rich and the pressures of war had dwindled his savings considerably. Hopefully, his promotion would help a bit. Ron had recently returned from Australia, unhappy and without his partner. As a father, he could understand the Grangers' reactions but had hoped that they would be sympathetic to his sons' obvious love. He had been surprised when Ron had presented him with some money. 'I earned it fair and square, Dad. I think, I can earn more if I really worked for it.' Arthur had been proud and delighted but he also wished that his children weren't so conscious about their lack of money. He was sure that Ron's quick acceptance of an auror job was partially due to that. He could only hope that his son knew what he was doing.

Percy was another son whose attitude he couldn't understand at the moment. Since the battle, apart from his ministry duties, he had spent most of his time with George. Even in the ministry, these days he seemed distracted and distant. Percy had always been a person with strong opinions and extreme reactions. Arthur wasn't sure his family could weather a second alienation. He paced anxiously as he waited for his third oldest son at the Ministry apparition point. They both needed to pick George from St. Mungo's. Today was the day he was coming home. Percy appeared a few moments later and to Arthur his face appeared distinctly nervous. He did not speak, giving him only the barest of nods as they both apparated outside St. Mungo's.

'Percy, I am your father. Tell me if something is bothering you, son. While I can no longer claim to solve all your problems, I will try. Is there something I should be concerned about before entering.' Arthur could no longer conceal his anxiety. He hoped that his son would confide in him still. A flick of hesitation passed across Percy's features. 'Father,' he began and Arthur's heart leapt to his throat. Percy rarely ever called him father. Whatever the matter was, it was definitely serious. 'There is someone I wanted you to meet.' Percy was saying, and Arthur could see a young girl shifting anxiously at the entrance. Arthur smiled. The matter was definitely serious but one that he was perhaps going to like. Arthur looked at the sweet-faced girl. Brown eyes looking at him for approval. Yes, if he was reading the signs right, she will suit his Percy well. 'I am Audrey, Mr. Weasley. Audrey Allen. I am an apprentice healer here, in my final year of study. I am pleased to meet Percy's father at last.' Her voice was uncertain.

He noticed how she had called him Percy's father. He turned to his son. 'I take it that this young lady is one of your close acquaintances.' Percy gave Audrey a distinctly unhappy look. She gave him another apprehensive look but started speaking. 'I first met Percy when he started coming to visit his brother here. Since then, we have met often, here and outside.' So there have been some dates involved then, Arthur mused. 'Well, we have both grown fond of each other in the past last month. My father owned a small eatery in Hogsmeade, which was burnt by the death eaters. My father died in the battle and my mum is a muggle and completely dependent on me.' Arthur looked down sadly. Too many good people lost their lives trying to stop Voldemort. At this, Percy took over. 'We wanted to ask your permission and blessing before I begin courting Audrey. I am to meet Audrey's mum tomorrow but Audrey wanted your blessings in place of the father she can no longer ask.'

Ah, so this was it. His Percy had always been a little old-fashioned and loved formalities, he thought fondly. His consent had been asked by letter, in the strictest confidence, when he had started his first relationship. Penelope Clearwater, he remembered. He was sure his son had written to the girl's parents too. Percy had been bitterly disappointed when they had gone their separate ways. If anyone would follow the old custom of applying to both fathers for consent, it would be Percy.

'Percy, son,' he finally spoke. 'Have you considered what courting means? Are you both sure that you can grow to love each other that way? Starting a family is not an easy task. Do you feel yourselves ready for the responsibility? And more importantly, if things do not go according to your plans, are you sure you are ready to move on amicably without trying to hurt each other?' He asked in his most serious voice. The two children shared a glance. 'Yes, we are,' they spoke together. 'In that case, I give you my permission willingly and welcome you as a daughter to my home and hearth,' Arthur spoke the formal words of acceptance. He gave them a smile and said, 'you will always be welcome to our house, Audrey. I look forward to getting to know one who my son holds so dear. In fact, Molly has organized a small party on 31st, which you should attend. You should be able to meet most of my large family there.' He smiled at the girl who looked more a competent young woman now that they had entered the hospital. This was a development Molly would definitely approve.

Together they moved towards George's room. Percy was evidently excited to share the news with his brother. It was possible that George knew of his brother's feelings. Arthur was sure that today's dinner was going to be happier and more peaceful than he had had in days.

Harry reached the Burrow early on the morning of 31st. Mrs. Weasley had been most insistent in throwing a party in his honour and Harry couldn't quite bring himself to say no to something that was clearly one of her only pleasures these days. On entering the house, he was immediately greeted by a very enthusiastic Ron who took him up to his room. His smile slid off the face the moment he closed the door. 'How have you been, Harry? Between both our schedules…' He grimaced. Harry smiled. 'No worries, Ron. Kingsley has kept me busy. I'm now in-charge of goblin negotiations.' He made a face. Ron laughed. 'That must be fun.'

'Yeah,' Harry said drawing out the sound. 'Between Wizengamot, Death Eaters and Teddy, I'll be lucky to get a moment to myself. And of course, Kingsley insists on using Grimmauld Place as his personal conference hall. More often than not, he wants my input. Teddy is growing well and at the moment he's learnt to crawl away from his cribs. Both Andromeda and I need to be on our toes if we're to prevent absolute destruction.' Harry's voice was fond and even Ron cracked a smile. It was evident that Harry had a lot to occupy himself.

'How are you and how was Hermione? You've joined the aurors than?' Harry's query brought Ron out of his thoughts. 'I'm alright,' he said his face falling. 'I have Hermione's phone number here but honestly it isn't the same. I didn't realize how much every thing in my life depended on magic. Visiting the Grangers, that was an eye-opener. And the Aurors, well, it's different. They're mostly making us work on open murder investigations along with our courses. I'm terrible at stealth and tracking. That's the only one we didn't cover in the DA. Trainees don't usually work on active cases, But we're so behind on everything, there's no choice. The usual duration is two years but the first exams are going to happen in nine months. Mr. Robards said anyone could attempt it. It won't count unless we pass.'

Ron paused to take a breath. 'How do you like your fellow aurors?' Harry wanted to know. 'Well enough, I suppose. I like old Sanjeev and Proudfoot. Mr. Robards is stiff but fair. Adrian, Andrew and the others are good sport, but it's not the same. Neville plans to join next year. He passed the assessment but he wanted his Herbology NEWT properly. He's returning to Hogwarts. I miss you all, especially you. You should have been there. You've always wanted to be an auror, haven't you?' Harry considered it. 'I'm happy for you Ron, but I'm not so sure about myself. I want to be sure that this is what I want before starting. We should visit Neville and his parents at St. Mungo's. I sent him wishes but he seemed to have a miserable birthday this year.' He said changing the topic.

'We should have invited him and Luna,' Ron said ashamed. 'But Percy's bringing over his girlfriend for introduction. So, of course, he's being awfully stuffy. Audrey, she's a healer at St. Mungo's. Bill has also been hinting at something big too and George probably won't like any reminders.' He continued even more gloomily. 'It's alright. We'll meet them after the exams. Ginny and I are going to have an early night and little drinking. Exams start next week.' Harry laughed. A few minutes later, Ron joined in. 'Never understood it, mate. Why does the great Harry Potter, who doesn't know his career choice by the way, needed to give those damn NEWTs? I'll never know that.'

'Will you accompany me to Justin's? I needed his help with something. Hermione helped a bit but I needed a muggle-born for this part. I needed to apply for a voter's id and then other stuff. I' need someone who knows muggle dress and manners.'

'Of course, Ron. You don't have to ask.'

Andromeda wasn't sure about what to expect when Molly had invited Teddy and her to the Weasley family gathering. When she had protested that she wasn't family, the Weasley matriarch had raised an eyebrow. 'Harry's family and so are you and Teddy. Any more questions?' Andromeda had backed down in front of such intensity. Still, despite knowing the Weasleys, she had still worried about her reception among the Weasley family, especially with nearly a year old baby in tow. She need not have worried.

On reaching the gathering, she received an enthusiastic greeting from Molly who immediately decided to fuss over Teddy as she brought over the refreshments. Andromeda was warmed by the site of Molly stirring the pot as she cradled Teddy. She had always been generous with her time, whether taking in Teddy while she dealt with an emergency or merely bringing food to allow her some respite. Teddy for his part seemed to be enjoying the attention the various members of the Weasley family lavished on him. Harry had brought him a small wooden horse which Teddy simply wouldn't let go. Andromeda spied Audrey among the guests surrounding Teddy. At first, she was surprised. She hadn't thought that she would see any healer here today. Then she saw the third eldest Weasley son, Percy, hovering around her anxiously and realized she must be his guest, perhaps his intended. Judging by the way her face relaxed and how Molly fussed over her, her introduction had gone well. Andromeda wished her all joy in her relationship.

Andromeda participated a little in the chatter of the people. Teddy was, at the moment, safely ensconced in the arms of his godfather while the youngest Weasley girl, Ginny, gave him longing looks. There was some history there, she sensed. She wondered whether the boy still saw himself as an outsider in his own party. He looked and held himself stiffly apart. She watched as he handed Teddy to Fleur, who held the baby with a decidedly hungry gleam in her eyes. Then she noticed the way she cradled her abdomen and the way her husband rushed to her side at the slightest sign of discomfort. Perhaps there was going to be an announcement soon. She was soon rewarded with the confirmation of her suspicions.

It was at the dinner table. Harry and Ginny had already cut the cake and presented with a few items. Harry had received a hand embroidered robe from Molly Weasley, an eagle feathered quill from Ginny and the bottle of wine she herself had given. Arthur and Molly had presented their daughter with a gold watch as her traditional coming-of-age while her brother had brought some joke items. His offerings for Harry looked a shade more serious. Ron had absolutely refused to spoil the surprise he and Hermione had arranged for both of them. Andromeda was warmed by the love and laughter at the gathering. George and Ron were taking turns ribbing Percy on his new conquest while Molly took pains to get to know Audrey who seemed to be enjoying herself despite her nervousness. In the middle of it all, Bill and Fleur stood up.

B ill cleared his throat for attention. 'Everyone, Fleur and I have something to say. Charlie, you'll be going back to chase your dragons tomorrow. Percy, between being the minister's undersecretary and Audrey, you'll have little time for us. Ginny will be at Hogwarts and the rest of you probably busy with your shop or new jobs. So, today while we have everyone's attention, we are expecting.' The last part was said together and immediately there was an uproar. There were hearty congratulations while both Andromeda and Audrey offered their services. Eventually, once everyone was sure that the mother and the baby-to-be were fine, dinner resumed. 'How far along are you, dear? Is there anything you'd like me to do?' Molly's face was glowing and her tone affectionate. 'No, Mrs. Weasley. Eet's well. Perhaps you could get me those fruit preserves of yours? Eet's only been a few days since I missed my dates. But I felt eet. Today morning, I checked weeth the spell and I was sure. I will write to Mama. She will be delighted.'

The dinner concluded with everyone concentrating on Bill and Fleur, while Mrs. Tonks decided to leave early pleading that it was far past Teddy's bedtime. Ginny was grateful for the distraction. It allowed her to get time alone with Harry. They both sneaked outside in the garden. The night was beautiful, a canopy of stars illuminating the darkness. Harry looked at Ginny, anticipating another argument but that wasn't Ginny's plan. 'Did you like it? Your birthday?' She asked softly. 'You're kidding me. This is the best birthday I've ever had. I'm sorry I don't have a gift for you. I wasn't sure what to get you and most shops in Diagon Alley won't let me pay.' He sounded frustrated. 'There's only one thing I could want from you, Harry. And that you can't give me,' she sighed sadly.

Harry looked away. Ginny was still angry with him then. 'So, are you ready for your exams? You're looking forward to going back to Hogwarts, aren't you?' He changed the topic. 'Yes, as well as you I suppose. My schedule isn't as bad as you, obviously, but I spend a lot of time helping George. Ron pitches in when he can, but it's still a lot of work. It was a two-person thing you know and we can't yet afford to hire their previous staff.' Ginny paused for a second, watching Harry's reaction. Then she continued on, 'Hogwarts wouldn't e same without you and Ron. You know that, don't you? Nev's the only boy from your year who is staying. Dean and Seasmus have decided to get the benefits of a muggle education. And you and Ron won't be returning. There will be more girls I assume. Parvati is coming but Lavender won't' Harry looked lost in memories.

Ginny wondered whether she should continue. 'Tell me more about Hogwarts and what you're planning for yourself.' Harry begged after the silence had stretched long. So, she did. She talked about her friends who were returning and some who were not. She also told him that they intend to continue the DA. 'We wrote to McGonagall and she agreed that we could continue having meetings and study groups if we wanted to. She even offered us the use of empty classrooms and such. She's still teaching transfiguration, you know. But professor Sinistra is the new Gryffindor Head of the House. Will be quite a change from Minnie.' Harry shook his head, chuckling. 'That it will be. Looks like Hogwarts will again be the school it was. Though to all of us, it won't be the same without Dumbledore. You haven't told me anything about yourself yet.' Ginny favoured him with a smile. Harry was enjoying himself.

'Why, of course, how could I forget. I wasn't planning to tell you but if you must know, I'm planning to go pro for Quidditch.' Harry didn't have to pretend to be excited. 'That's lovely. There are always scouts looking for seventh years. Oliver got his place in Puddlemere that way. And of course, Charlie would have told you. He offended plenty of scouts. I'm sure they'll quickly lap you up.' Ginny licked her lips. 'That's the plan, Harry. I'm worried about the Gryffindor team though,' she continued ruefully. 'You know Sloper's keeping.' She grimaced. 'Why don't we fly, Harry. I've been practicing, I want to show off. Besides, I haven't got a partner in ages.' Her eyes twinkled with mischief. 'You're on.'

Harry was duly impressed by Ginny's new flying ability though he still had a couple of tricks up his sleeves. And Ginny's Cleansweep seven was no match for Harry's Firebolt. He laughed as Ginny begged him to teach her the Wronski Feint or the Eagle's Swoop. At last, they sat down on the grass laughing. 'I thought you wanted to be a chaser though,' Harry asked breathlessly. 'Oh, I do,' Ginny promised but looked away. 'It really depends on the try-outs, I guess. If I get an awesome seeker like you, no problem. I love working with Demelza, though now I'll need to find another Chaser. Of course, I didn't tell you. McGonagall already told me I'm going to be the Quidditch Captain. And Hermione is going to be the Head Girl. We got the letters early, though we'll get the booklist after the results if we're taking the exams. They're keeping the name of head boy awfully quiet. Anyway, so if I get a seeker, I'll be a chaser or the opposite. I'm the only player who can pull it off with reasonable certainty.' Ginny didn't look happy about it. 'So, I talked to Gwenong Jones, she's the captain of the Harpies. Don't tell Ron about this, alright.' Harry nodded. 'She told me to keep up both. She's always good like that, for the upcoming girls. Gave me a lot of good advice. So, here I am. I don't recall you knowing these moves earlier though?'

'I practiced them in the sixth year. Not that I had a chance to show them off in the school matches. You don't tell Ron either, but I kept up correspondence with Viktor Krum. He didn't mind giving me advice either. But going pro then would have put the whole team in danger. Still might. Kingsley is getting really frustrated with Rabastan Lestrange. He keeps raiding houses and killing people. We're worried they'll start feeding us information through their source. We haven't found their source in the ministry yet.' Harry said tiredly. 'And I have to worry over my NEWTs'

'It's going to be fine, Harry.' Ginny said with emotion. 'Everything is going to be fine.' On an impulse, she hugged Harry tightly. Harry was speechless for a second, then hugged her back. A few moments later their lips met. And both to Ginny and Harry, it felt like the best kiss of all time.

The next morning, Ron pulled Harry aside. He had dressed in an old-fashioned muggle suit. 'I look alright, don't I? He asked anxiously. 'Yeah, alright. Do I need to dress up too?' Harry inquired, looking Ron up and down. 'You don't have anything important scheduled today? It's Justin. His father is some variety of nobility. I'm not sure…'

'You look absolutely fine,' Harry assured him. 'I'm afraid I'll have to do with My shirt and trousers. I don't really own a suit except the one I wore at Colin's funeral. The Dursleys…' He flushed. Ron looked embarrassed too. He hadn't really considered why despite having loads of money, Harry didn't seem to have a lot of things. He decided to awkwardly change the topic. 'I've been learning to cook, you know. You both did what you could, and well, I thought Hermione will like that. I think I can handle simple breakfast now. Eggs, bacon, fritters, even pancakes.'

'That's brilliant Ron. Hermione and the Grangers would love that.' Harry said while he smoothed his T shirt. 'Have you and Hermione decided to you know, tell your parents?' Ron paused thoughtfully. 'Dad knows, I think. None of us have ever been good at hiding things from him. It's like a special talent. He can just look at us and know. The Grangers, they have their suspicions. If they've said anything to Hermione, I've no idea. I'm not so sure about Mum's reaction.' Harry gave her a concerned look. Ron straightened and looked him in the eye. 'While on the topic of relationships, did you and Ginny make up? I'm not blind. I've seen the way you and her look at each other. As if… As if nothing in the world matters any more.' Harry winced. Ron's voice was stern. 'I suppose I deserve that. But I swear, I wasn't… I mean she wanted to… I… I promise you Ron, never in the world would I even dream of intentionally hurting her. I do love her. More than anything else in the world. And I need her.' He finished lamely.

Ron stared at Harry a little longer. 'See that you don't hurt her. Ever.' He said gruffly. 'Does that mean you approve?' Harry looked at Ron expectantly. 'It means I'm giving you both a chance. She is my little sister. And you are my best mate. Best case scenario, don't mess up or you'll have to answer me.' Then Ron's expression changed. 'I'm just her brother. You're going to have to talk to Dad at some point, you know. In his eyes, even the Chosen One isn't going to be good enough for his only daughter.'

'Ron!' Harry looked at him reproachfully and Ron laughed. 'Let's get moving. We'll be late for Justin's and you have a long day full of studying.'

Harry and Ron apparated to Justin's porch. Looking around made both of them uneasy. They had known that Justin was rich, but not how rich. The lawn was large and elegant and the footman admitted them to a sitting room which could only be described as delicate and breathtaking. Justin appeared a few minutes later, 'Come in, both of you. You didn't mention Harry would be coming.' He smiled and prodded them upstairs to his room which was covered from roof to floor by a variety of posters, both magical and muggle. Then he noticed his friends' faces. 'Don't mind the room and Wallace. Mother keeps it ready for her parties. Father's outside visiting someone, otherwise he'd like to meet you two. He's fascinated with wizards. You should have seen how many questions he asked the Minister when he visited.'

Harry grinned while Justin took out a folder from is cupboard. Here. I've got your voter id and passport. And this is your UKCF and FIDE registration. It might take a while to update your rating. And you'll need more tournaments if you want to compete for an IM. But I think you didn't understand, did you?' Justin asked him as Ron was staring fascinatedly at the pieces of papers. It took Harry and Justin another hour to explain the intricacies of Muggle registration numbers to Ron. 'I could have helped you earlier if you had let me know. Dad loves chess. He'd love to play against you.' Justin told them pleasantly. Then he took a breath and spoke in a more serious tone. 'Harry, congratulations. I heard about the announcement ceremony that's going to occur after the exams.'

'I couldn't have done it without you all.' Harry protested uneasily. 'Honestly, I'm working with Wizengamot about other awardees. I told them I wouldn't accept without the rest of you being awarded first. That's why it was an announcement, not an award ceremony. Between all of us, it's going to be most of the DA.' Harry told him. 'You didn't have to do that Harry. But listen, the DA wanted to continue helping. We've started a society. Society for Justice to Muggle-borns. There are a lot of muggle-borns, who're displaced or left destitute because of Death Eater policies. A lot of them need help. Alicia is the President and I'm the Secretary. It would mean a world to us Harry, if you could get us some public notice.'

Harry was moved by Justin's speech. 'That's great, Justin. I'll do what I can, I promise. The announcement, well, I promised Kingsley and Wizengamot that it would be their event. That was the price for getting everyone the awards they deserved. For the actual ceremony, it's likely to be around Christmas, I suppose, we all could wear muggle clothes for awareness? What do you think?'

'I'll pass the idea around. It's likely to offend a couple of purebloods, I'm sure. But it's a good idea definitely. Most of the Wizarding population is half-blood, I gather. Might make an impression. Thanks, Harry.' Justin said sincerely.

'No problem at all, Justin.' Harry stood up and shook his hand.

A/N: I'm really sorry for the late update. I'm really not that good at romance and some real life stuff made it very hard for me to continue writing. I'll try to update better in the future. Thank you everyone who praised and followed this story. This chapter is only meant to be a fluffy interlude and setting up the scene for future relationships and all. If people like it, I can write more about Percy/ Audrey. I have a definite storyline already but I haven't planned everything and some of the subplots aren't set in stone either. I promise, I'll finish the story no matter it takes. Please keep reviewing. That gives me motivation to continue.