chapter 6
The Burrow’s garden had never looked so beautiful. Twinkling fairy lights floated above, illuminating the warm, golden hues of the sunset. Rows of chairs were set up under an archway covered in deep red roses and white lilies. The scent of fresh flowers and the delicious feast waiting inside mixed with the evening breeze, making the entire place feel like a dream.
Ginny stood in front of the mirror in her childhood bedroom, taking a deep breath. Her dress was simple yet stunning—soft, flowing white fabric with delicate lace detailing along the sleeves. Her fiery hair was twisted into an elegant updo, with tiny pearls woven through it, courtesy of Fleur’s expert hands. Hermione adjusted her veil with a proud smile.
"You look incredible, Gin," Hermione whispered.
"Yeah," Ginny breathed, smoothing down her dress. "I just... I can’t believe it’s actually happening."
"Well, you’d better believe it, because Harry’s already outside looking like he might pass out," Luna added dreamily.
Ginny laughed, nerves bubbling in her stomach. "Better not keep him waiting, then."
Downstairs, the music started, and she took her father’s arm. As she stepped into the garden, all eyes turned to her, but she only saw one person—Harry. He stood at the altar in dress robes, looking completely awestruck. His green eyes locked onto hers, filled with pure love and admiration.
As Ginny reached him, her father gave her hand to Harry, squeezing his shoulder before stepping back.
"You look..." Harry started, then stopped, shaking his head. "There aren’t even words."
Ginny smiled up at him. "Then don’t say anything," she whispered, giving his hand a gentle squeeze.
The ceremony was beautiful, filled with quiet laughter and heartfelt vows. When Kingsley Shacklebolt, officiating as Minister for Magic, finally said, "You may kiss the bride," Harry didn’t hesitate. He pulled Ginny into his arms, pressing a kiss to her lips as the entire garden erupted into cheers.
The Reception
The Burrow’s backyard was now alive with celebration—people laughing, clinking glasses, and dancing under a sky filled with floating lanterns. Teddy sat happily on Harry’s shoulders, giggling as he ruffled his godfather’s hair. The food, courtesy of Mrs. Weasley and an army of helpful hands, was the best anyone had ever tasted.
As the night went on, it was time for the speeches. Mr. Weasley went first, followed by Hermione, who got a little teary-eyed, and then it was Ron’s turn. He stood up with a smirk, clearing his throat dramatically.
"Harry has always felt like a brother to me. Dare I say my favorite one?" He grinned as Fred and George let out loud wolf whistles. "Well, skiving off that—Harry really insulted us two days ago during my wedding speech. Now it’s my turn."
The crowd laughed, and Harry groaned good-naturedly.
"Though, I’ll go easy on Ginny because I don’t want to end up on the receiving end of her bat-bogey hex."
Dudley, sitting near the back, looked thoroughly confused.
"So, first year—Ginny was obsessed with Harry. She begged Mum to let her go see him at the train station after she heard about him from Fred and George. Second year—still obsessed. She even sent him a singing Valentine, which really embarrassed poor Harry in front of everyone."
Fred and George jumped up, unable to resist. In perfect unison, they belted out:
"His eyes are as green as a fresh-pickled toad,
His hair is as dark as a blackboard,
I wish he were mine, he’s really divine,
The hero who conquered the Dark Lord!"
The entire crowd roared with laughter, Ginny’s face turned the same color as her hair, and Harry buried his face in his hands.
"I hate you all," Ginny muttered, but she was laughing too.
Ron continued smugly, "Alright, back to my speech, which I was forced to give. Third year, nothing much changed. Fourth year—Ginny actually had the chance to go to the Yule Ball with Harry, but unfortunately for him, she was already going with Neville."
Neville, sitting beside Luna, slipped his arm around her with a proud grin.
"Fifth year—Ginny decided to stop waiting around for Harry to notice her and just started being herself. But poor bloke had only eyes for one girl—" Ron smirked. "Not naming any names here."
Hermione shot him a glare, while Harry looked like he wanted to disappear.
"In our sixth year, Harry finally realized he liked Ginny. But he thought he was being subtle. Spoiler alert—he wasn’t. You’d notice too if your best friend kept getting hit by Bludgers because he couldn’t stop staring at your sister during Quidditch practice. Naturally, he kissed her right after we won the Quidditch final. But he was immediately banned from enjoying it, stuck in detention by none other than our lovely Professor Snape."
At this, McGonagall raised an eyebrow. "I would tell you to show some respect, Mr. Weasley, but frankly, I can’t say I disagree."
Laughter rang through the crowd.
"Anyway," Ron continued, "I was really hoping they wouldn’t break up, because having to give Harry the talk would’ve been so awkward. But they did break up—though, since it was to protect her, I let it slide. After Voldemort was defeated, they got back together, and let’s be real—none of us were surprised."
Ron glanced at Harry and Ginny, his tone turning more serious. "Harry, you’ve been my best mate since we were eleven. You’re family. And Ginny, you’ve been terrorizing me since the day you could talk, so I suppose you’re alright, too." Ginny rolled her eyes with a smirk.
"You two are already amazing together. You’ve taken Teddy in and been the best parent figures he could ask for. You’re going to have a lifetime of adventure, love, and, knowing you two, a lot of Quidditch. So here’s to my best friend and my sister—"
Ron lifted his glass, but then paused, smirking devilishly.
"Oh, and one last thing, Harry—" He took a dramatic pause. "You break her heart... you’ll wish you were facing Voldemort again."
The entire room erupted into cheers and laughter, Ginny looked smug, and Harry just shook his head with an affectionate grin.
"To Harry and Ginny!" Ron finished, and the crowd echoed him, glasses raised high.
As the night carried on, Harry found Ginny again, wrapping his arms around her waist as they swayed on the dance floor. "So, Mrs. Potter," he murmured.
"Yes, Mr. Potter?" she teased, tilting her head up.
"Think your brothers will ever let us live that speech down?"
"Not a chance." She smirked. "But it was worth it."
Harry grinned and kissed her, holding her close as they danced under the stars, surrounded by family, love, and the promise of forever.