Chapter 10
Ron, Ginny, Hermione, Susan, Neville, and Luna Flooed over after lunch, and they all settled in the library with their friends, catching up on school assignments and the like. Though they didn't say anything, just the fact that they were there and supporting Blaise, Daphne, and Astoria really meant a lot to the trio of Slytherins.
The adults had decided to give the kids some time to rest, especially given the attacks on the Greengrasses and Madam Zabini. Sirius pulled Harry aside and told him there would be a meeting that evening.
Harry bit his lip as he glanced over at his friends. "We can set Astoria up with a movie after dinner, to keep her occupied."
Sirius nodded. "Sounds like a good plan. How's the others' Occlumency coming? I know they were good enough over the summer, but not quite perfect."
Harry nodded. "I told them to set up a time with Jason over the break, just to make sure, but I'm pretty sure they're at the same level as the rest of us." He shrugged. "Of course, I could just be failing at Legilimancy, and they're really awful."
Sirius snorted. "Somehow I doubt that's the case." He sighed. "How are they doing?" his voice softened as he looked over at the group of students working at several tables around the room.
Harry sighed, his gaze also shifting over to his friends. "I think they really appreciated the mini sleepover we had last night. Blaise won't say it, but he's worried about his mum. Madam Zabini's not exactly young, but from what you said, she's doing just fine. It's Daphne and Astoria I'm more worried about. They miss their mum."
Sirius nodded. "That's only natural. Just be the good friend you are, and be there for them. If they want or need something, be there. Talk to them, or just listen."
Harry nodded his agreement. It was no less than he was already planning.
Sirius cleared his throat to get the attention of the rest of the group. "Dinner will be ready in a few minutes, so you guys should think about packing up."
They all nodded, and put their books and parchment in order, before heading to the dining room.
When the meal was over, Harry gestured for his yearmates, along with Ginny and Luna, to stay put, while he led Astoria up to the Entertainment Suite. He showed her the movies, and how to operate the VHS player, and suggested a few good films she might enjoy, before he returned to the rest of the group.
"There's a meeting tonight, so if you're up for it, we should head up."
They all nodded, and left the dining room. When they reached the library, they settled down to wait for the adults.
They came in groups over the next ten minutes, giving greetings to the teenagers, and condolences to Blaise and Daphne.
Andromeda and Ted arrived just a step behind their daughter and Remus, and a few minutes later, Bill and Fleur entered, followed by Fred and George. Minerva and Sirius came in still deep in conversation with Molly and Arthur right behind them. Augusta arrived not long after that, and Snape slipped in just as the meeting was about to start.
Once Minerva saw that they were all there, she started the meeting by informing those who weren't aware, of the attack that had taken place a few days earlier.
"Mister Zabini, Miss Greengrass, we are so sorry for what your families are going through," Minerva' voice was compassionate as she looked at her students. They both nodded and the professor continued. "Four Death Eaters were arrested, though none of them were high enough to really be of much use. They've all been sentenced to prison time." She took a deep breath. "It is believed that the leader of the attack on the Greengrasses was Camden Avery. Unfortunately, he escaped before he could be apprehended."
"He's the one that killed my mum, wasn't he," Daphne asked, though it sounded like more of a statement then a question.
Minerva looked at her and nodded regretfully. "The Aurors think so. None of the others had the Killing Curse on their wands when Priori Incantatum was performed." Daphne looked like she was trying not to show how upset she was. Minerva shared a look with Sirius. "Amelia and Kingsley are staying late at the Ministry tonight to try and work through the details on the attack, that's why they aren't here."
From there, the meeting turned to other updates. The Weasley twins showed the group a few of their newer inventions, including a prototype they were working on that, if they could work out a few kinks, would act as a sort of blanket stunner. Harry was very intrigued, since it could potentially knock out anywhere from two to upwards of ten people at a time.
"That's brilliant, guys," he said as they finished their demonstration. "Let us know when you get it to work."
Fred nodded, grinning. "We think this might be just the jumping off point. Once we get the idea to work, we can create devices that send out an area disarm, or maybe a cutting curse. We just have to figure out the details."
Hermione was examining the prototype. "These look remarkably similar to muggle grenades. And the way you pull this here," she gestured to the small pin at the top, "and throw them, it's exactly the way muggles use grenades."
George nodded eagerly. "Exactly. We modeled them after the muggle grenades. We call them maginades." He shrugged. "Not the most original name, but it works."
Sirius smiled. "It's an ingenious idea, guys. This could come in really handy. Let us know if you need any help with anything."
The twins nodded, understanding; a few months earlier, Sirius had signed on as another silent partner to Weasleys Wizarding Wheezes. They had formalized both partnership and Harry's, so that he and Harry would each receive ten percent of the profits in exchange for their monetary backing.
"How are the listening devices coming?" Harry asked curiously. They hadn't heard anything since the summer.
The twins shared a rueful look, before George spoke. "We're a little stalled on getting them to work without active magic powering them, but we'll keep working on it."
Harry nodded, and they moved on.
The next issue they discussed was the new prison Amelia was spearheading. "The prisoners will be transferred from Azkaban on the First. Amelia has put a lot of time and effort into this, and the new location is Unplottable, with layers of wards that the Goblins contributed to, thanks to our resident Gringotts employees." He smiled at Bill and Fleur, who nodded their thanks at the recognition. It had taken several days of negotiations, but the Goblins were paid well for their troubles, and they understood that assisting the Ministry in locking up Death Eaters was in their best interests.
Sirius' expression turned somber. "There will be a short window of time where the wards on Azkaban will be down, while the prisoners are transferred. We're keeping this operation under wraps for now, for that reason. We don't want any word of this getting out, because if the enemy knew that this was happening, they could use it to stage a breakout."
"How many people know?" Harry asked.
Sirius bit his lip. "A few Aurors. Amelia. Us. Those who will be involved in the transportation will be told the night it happens, to lessen the chance of it getting out."
They all nodded, and moved on.
As the meeting came to a close, Sirius coughed lightly, drawing all the attention to him. "Amelia was supposed to be here, but as you know, she got caught up at work, so I'll just make the announcement." He paused for a moment, and smirked when several people rolled their eyes exasperatedly. "We've decided that we're going to get married on New Years Eve."
A few people looked startled.
"Isn't the Minister's wedding going to be a huge deal?" Andromeda asked, raising an eyebrow.
Sirius shrugged. "Exactly why we'd rather do it here, in private. We don't want the press or any other unwelcome gatecrashers attending. You're all invited, but that's it. Neither of us really has a large family."
"I like the idea of a small wedding," Susan commented. "It's much more intimate."
"Yes," Sirius nodded. "We don't want people showing up just because it's the Minister's wedding. We'll send out announcements and all that later. We're not trying to hide it or anything; I don't think that would be possible, considering who we are. We just want to be able to enjoy it with those we care about, without having to be diplomats."
"Understandable," Minerva said. "Who will be performing the ceremony?"
Sirius glanced at Augusta. "We were hoping you would be willing, Augusta," he asked hesitantly.
The Longbottom dowager looked startled. "I'd be delighted, Sirius. It would be my honor."
There were several people who could perform wedding ceremonies. Clergy members, the Minister, the Head of the Wizengamot, and judges. The members of the Wizengamot were considered judges in the wizarding world, and so, Augusta could legally perform the ceremony. Sirius and Amelia had thought it would be nice to be married by a friend, and that wasn't even getting into the hassle it would be to find someone they could trust to allow access to McGonagall Castle.
The meeting broke up shortly after that, as it was getting late. Minerva and Sirius disappeared towards the kitchens as people started heading towards the Floo, talking about menus and decorations; their direction indicated they would be talking to the house elves about making sure everything was perfect on the Thirty-First.
The adults left first, and the teenagers stuck around for a little while longer, talking, since they still had some time before they needed to get to bed.
"When do you think your parents will be released from St. Mungos?" Ron asked, looking at Blaise and Daphne.
The two Slytherins glanced at each other, as Hermione dug an elbow into her boyfriend's side for his lack of tact. Ron winced, but still seemed to expect an answer.
"The Healer told me mum could probably come home day after tomorrow," Blaise said softly, some of his worry seeping into his voice.
Daphne sniffed lightly. "Dad will probably be released by Christmas Eve."
Ginny reached over and squeezed the older girl's hand gently. "I'm so sorry, Daphne. If you need anything, please don't hesitate to ask."
Daphne nodded, smiling tightly.
Harry cleared his throat. "I'm going to go see how Astoria's doing. It's getting pretty late, she should probably get to bed soon."
They all nodded and said goodbye, though Ginny stood up as he made his way out of the room. "I'll come with you. Ron, tell mum I'll be home in a few minutes."
The couple made their way up to the Entertainment Suite, talking through their bond.
We really need to get a look at some of the books in the Black library, Harry commented, pushing open a door.
Ginny looked over at him and raised an eyebrow. You think? She was only being slightly sarcastic.
Harry nodded mentally, glancing at her sidelong. If any library were to have information on horcruxes, I think that would be it. Sirius is always going on about how dark his family is. We might be able to find something that could help us.
Ginny sighed as they reached their destination. We'll have to plan carefully. We can't just disappear for the whole day. Someone is bound to find out, and we can't really answer their questions, can we?
Harry shrugged. We've already had this conversation with Snape. We can't do this alone, Gin. We'll need help.
I know, Ginny shot back. But now isn't the best time. When we're back at school, we'll tell them what we know. But if we tell them we're looking through the Black library, they'll want to come, and then it won't be a simple operation, will it? How are we supposed to keep it a secret if six of us, or more, are sneaking off to Grimmauld Place?
Harry sighed in defeat, and sat down next to Astoria. "Hey," he smiled. "How'd you like the movie?"
Astoria looked over at him and grinned. "This is amazing!" she gushed. "It's so fascinating. Muggles really created this? There are so many to choose from, and it's so much more stimulating than listening to the wireless. Are they still creating new stories?"
Harry chuckled. "Whoa there, calm down Astoria. You're just as bad as Ginny." Both girls blushed. "Yes, movies are still being made. When they first come out, people go to cinemas to watch them on a bigger screen. Maybe next summer we can all go see one. I took Ginny summer before last, and she loved it."
"Right up until the Dementors attacked," Ginny snorted.
Harry shrugged. "Yeah, until that. Anyway," he stood up, offering a hand to his girlfriend. "It's getting late, we should all get to bed now."
Astoria nodded. "Can I watch another movie tomorrow?" she asked as she stood as well.
Harry smiled. "I'm sure that can be arranged."
He sent Astoria on up to her room, and walked Ginny to the Floo.
He gave her a quick kiss good night, before she stepped through, and he went upstairs.
Daphne was waiting for him in his room. She smiled softly at him as he entered, and before he even realized what was going on, she was hugging him tightly. "Thank you," she whispered. Harry's arms moved around her waist, and he felt almost like he was the only thing keeping her on her feet, as she began to sob softly into his shoulder. "Thank you for taking care of us, and for being there for Astoria. Thank you for everything you've done."
Harry felt himself tear up slightly as he hugged her back. "You're welcome, Daph," he replied. "I'm always here for you."
Daphne sniffed and pulled back, giving him a watery smile before she headed back to her room.
Harry watched her leave, perplexed, before shrugging and changing into his pajamas.
XXX
Over the next few days, Blaise, Daphne, and Astoria spent the mornings at St. Mungos, before returning to McGonagall Castle in the afternoon.
Ron, Ginny, and Susan came over most days, but Hermione had gone on vacation with her parents for a few days. As she didn't want to be gone for Christmas, they agreed to a short trip to Northern France, and would return late Christmas Eve.
Neville was spending some time fixing up one of his greenhouses, but he did come a few times.
Three days after the vacation started, Madam Zabini was released from the hospital, and Blaise went home, after thanking Harry for his hospitality.
"You're welcome here any time," Harry said as they stood by the Floo.
Blaise nodded. "Thanks, Harry. And thanks, Professor, for letting me stay," he said to Minerva, who was also in the room.
Minerva smiled. "It was my pleasure, Mister Zabini. And as Harry said, you are welcome any time."
Daphne gave her friend and fellow Prefect a hug. "We'll see you later?" she asked hesitantly, and Blaise knew that she was still worried about her father, and grieving over her mother, which was why her insecure side was coming out.
"Of course," he assured her. "I'll come by tomorrow afternoon."
Once Blaise was gone, the teenagers went upstairs to watch a movie. Astoria was captivated by the moving images, and though her interest was more toned down, Daphne also found the concept fascinating. They had worked their way through all three Die Hard movies, two different James Bond films, Mary Poppins, and Cinderella, all in the last few days alone. Harry found it rather amusing, but he understood; as purebloods, they were unused to the kind of technology that muggles had.
The days continued to pass in a similar vein, as Christmas drew closer. On Christmas Eve, Cyrus Greengrass was released from the hospital, and though weak, he was able to go home. He thanked Minerva graciously for her assistance and for looking after his daughters, before the three of them headed back to Greengrass Manor. Astoria gave Harry a hug, thanking him for everything, before Daphne gave her own goodbye.
"I'll see you soon," she said. "Happy Christmas, Harry."
Harry smiled. "Happy Christmas. And if you need anything, just ask."
The two girls stepped through the Floo, and Cyrus held out his hand to Harry. "Thank you, Mister Potter, for being such a good friend to my girls," the Greengrass Lord said.
Harry nodded, returning the handshake. "I'm glad you're all right, Lord Greengrass."
Cyrus shook his head. "Please, it's Cyrus. We are all comrades, are we not?"
Harry nodded again. They were on the same side, and Cyrus' words indicated that he was more willing to come off the bench than he had been before the attack. From Sirius' dealings with his faction of the Wizengamot, he knew that the Greengrasses were leaning more to the neutral side of the light. They wouldn't support Voldemort, but they weren't too willing to fight, either. Perhaps being attacked had changed Cyrus' mind.
Once the Greengrasses had left, Harry went upstairs to prepare his room. The adults had given in to their children's pleading, and allowed them to have a sleepover that night, before they all joined them at the Castle the next morning.
The Ron and Ginny arrived first, followed by Neville, then Susan, then Hermione. They spent most of the evening watching Bambi, and even Ron was crying by the end of the movie. After that, they headed up to Harry's room, where he had made a space for them by moving the chairs and sofa in his sitting area to the side, and spreading out blankets and pillows.
They dropped off quickly, eager for the next morning.
XXX
Ron woke the rest of them up at eight o'clock sharp. "Wake up you lot!" he shouted. "Presents!"
Harry rolled his eyes and shared an exasperated look with Hermione. "Is he sixteen or six?" Harry asked, rubbing sleep from his eyes.
Hermione smiled, and Ginny moaned. "Five more minutes," she grumbled.
Harry sighed and bent over, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "Sorry love, I don't think he'll give us that," he said contritely.
Ginny groaned and sat up, making her way to Harry's en suite.
They spent a few minutes waking themselves up, brushing their teeth and taking care of other necessities, before they headed downstairs to join the adults.
Tonks was already snuggled into Remus' side on the loveseat as they entered the room.
Sirius and Amelia walked in just behind the teenagers; Sirius had moved into the Bones Estate permanently after Harry and the others returned to Hogwarts in September.
Augusta arrived just a few minutes after Sirius and Amelia, followed quickly by Molly, Arthur, Bill, Fleur, and the twins.
There were 'Happy Christmases' given all around, as they settled in to open their presents.
Harry opened up several new movies and games from Remus, before Minerva pushed hers and Sirius' present towards him.
Harry gasped as he pulled the wrapping paper off, to reveal the newest broom not yet on the market, the Firebolt Mark 2. It was scheduled for release next month. He looked up at his guardian, his eyes wide. "How…"
Sirius smiled. "One of the Black investments includes stock in the Firebolt Company. I was able to get this prototype, and it is personalized, if you'll take a look."
Indeed, on the shaft was his surname, written in gold lettering. Harry shook his head. "You didn't have to…"
Minerva sighed. "That is the basis for a gift, Harry. It's not something you have to get someone. We wanted to get this for you. It is a better broom than the one you currently own. The Firebolt company has done a good job of perfecting their model with this release."
Harry considered for a moment, before he grinned, rubbing a finger across the gleaming wood. "Thank you, so much," he said, beaming at his guardians. She was right that the Firebolt Mark 2 was better than the original Firebolt, though of course, the original was no slouch. The second version was said to have improved a few minor issues that Harry had noted when he flew his Firebolt, such as the slight shaking that occurred when one flew over one hundred and ten kilometers per hour. In addition, the footrests were more stable, and there were several more layers of cushioning charms added for extra comfort.
An owl flew through the window at that moment, interrupting them. It landed on Ron's shoulder, and the redhead took the note clutched in its talons, confused. Written on the piece of parchment was 'Happy Christmas, from Harry and Ginny.' He looked up at his best friend and sister. "What?" he asked, confused.
The two smiled. "We teamed up," Harry explained. "We figured you'd like your own pet, since, you know…"
Ron clenched his teeth at the reminder of his old pet Scabbers. Damn rat. He forced himself to let it go and smiled. "Thanks you two. He's wicked."
Ginny gave her brother a hug. "He's a screech owl, and he doesn't have a name, so make sure you pick the right one."
As if agreeing with her, the owl let out a loud hoot, its yellow eyes observing the room intelligently.
They chuckled, and the owl took off, flying to a nearby perch where it settled. Ron studied the regal bird for a few moments, before he turned to Hermione. "What's the name of that god of the wind? You were reading a book on mythology this summer, what was he called?"
Hermione looked thoughtful. "What religion? Greek, Roman, Egyptian – "
Ron shrugged. "I dunno. It started with a Z, I think."
Hermione nodded. "Zephyrus? He was the Greek god of the west wind."
Ron nodded eagerly. "That's it!" He turned back to the owl, who was regarding him carefully. "How do you like Zephyrus? Zeph for short."
The owl seemed to consider for a moment, before he gave an approving hoot and flew out the window.
"I like it," Ginny commented.
They all nodded and returned to their gifts.
Harry unwrapped the traditional box of candy from Ron, the Weasley sweater – this year in a soft gray with a green 'H' on the front – and a fruitcake from Molly and Arthur, a book on warding from Bill and Fleur, a book on dragons from Charlie, and some homemade joke products from Fred and George.
Susan chuckled as she opened the gift Harry had given her – a book on the history of the DMLE. When he looked over, she smiled. "Open my present next," she suggested.
Harry did so, and then laughed at finding out that she and Amelia had given him the same book. "Great minds think alike?" he asked, grinning cheekily.
Susan threw a wad of wrapping paper at him, and continued opening gifts.
Hermione's book on martial arts looked to be a very interesting read.
"I thought you might be able to work it into some defense training," his fellow Prefect said, nodding at the book. "It covers several different styles, so it should be useful."
Harry smiled. "Thanks, Hermione. This looks great."
Hermione beamed at him, having just opened the book on Arithmancy that Harry had given her. "Thank you so much, Harry, I've been wanting to read this for ages!"
Harry's smile widened, and he nodded.
Ginny gasped as she opened the velvet box with the tag from Harry. "Oh, Harry, this is gorgeous!" she gushed, immediately taking the necklace out to put it on. It was white gold, with an infinity symbol made of diamonds.
Harry's smiled softened, and he looked at her with pure love in his gaze. "I chose the infinity symbol because that's how long we'll be together," he said softly as he helped her put it on.
Molly watched tearfully, though she was smiling at her daughter and… son-in-law. It was a strange concept, but she could clearly see the love they held for each other. It made her so proud, and slightly sad, to see. Her daughter was no longer a child. She had grown into a beautiful woman, inside and out.
"Fascinating," Arthur commented, holding up the package of batteries Harry had given him. "These are what muggles use to power their eckletronic devices, correct?"
Harry chuckled, looking over at the Weasley patriarch. "Some devices run off batteries, rather then electricity, yes," he explained.
Molly shook her head fondly, and proceeded to thank Harry for the set of knitting needles and selection of yarn he had given her.
"Thanks, mate!" Fred and George shouted across the room, pouring over the muggle prank book Harry had gifted them.
Harry nodded at them, and pulled another gift towards him. It was from Snape, surprisingly, and consisted of a book on lycanthropy. He raised an eyebrow, flipping through a few pages. It appeared to include history, theory, and recent developments. This would come in handy in his research.
The next gift was a combined present from Blaise and Daphne, and was another book – he wondered if he really came across as such an avid reader to his friends, but at least they chose interesting reads. This book was on renowned DMLE heads – it consisted of five biographies on what were considered to be the best heads in recent history. Flipping through the front few pages, Harry was startled to see his grandfather, Charlus Potter, listed as one of the subjects in the book. That was probably why Blaise and Daphne had given him this book. He had gotten them each a book of their own, on subjects they were interested in – Blaise, he had given a book on Curse Breaking, and Daphne, an autobiography of a renowned Potions Mistress. He was glad that he had managed to send out an owl order for a present for Astoria, since she would probably feel left out if he didn't give her something, after they had gotten to know each other better at the start of the holiday. He had given her a stationary set, complete with quills, ink, and a nice carrying case that doubled as a surface to write on. It could be turned into a sort of lap desk, so that she could write in bed if she wanted to.
Harry felt his breath catch in his throat as he opened the present from Neville and Augusta. It was a photo album that contained many pictures of their parents, from their school days, through Alice and Lily's pregnancies, and even a few of baby Harry and Neville playing together.
"Thanks, Neville," Harry said softly, causing the other boy to look up from the Herbology book Harry had given him. "This is amazing."
Neville nodded simply. No words were necessary. He understood.
Harry saved Ginny's gift for last. He furrowed his brow as the paper came off to reveal the back of a photo frame. He felt himself tear up all over again, as he turned the frame over to reveal a wedding announcement.
Ginny reached over and rested her hand on top of his. "I found their wedding announcement in a copy of an old Daily Prophet in the library," she explained. "I copied it and enlarged it. Do you like it?"
Harry didn't say anything, but the kiss he gave her indicated that he loved it.
Sirius reached over and examined the announcement. "I remember taking this photo," he commented. "I must have taken twenty before they finally decided they had gotten it right."
Remus nodded. "Lily kept saying her eyes were closed, or she wasn't smiling enough."
"Or she was smiling too much," Sirius chuckled. "And if it wasn't that, it was James whose eyes were closed, or the flash from the camera must have reflected off his glasses, or he wasn't looking right at the camera, or he was looking right at the camera. She wanted it to be perfect."
"She always felt a little inferior," Remus said softly. "She was a muggleborn, marrying the heir to an Ancient and Noble House. She felt like she wasn't good enough."
Sirius raised an eyebrow. "James didn't care about any of that."
Remus shrugged. "I know he didn't, but people talk. Lily knew what they were thinking. She and James loved each other, but unfortunately, the Potters were and are in the public eye. People feel like they have a say in your life when you live like that. It doesn't matter whether or not they should, it's how they feel."
Sirius stared. "Where did all this come from?" he asked, amazed.
Remus threw a crumpled up piece of wrapping paper at him. "I'm the smart one, remember?"
Sirius growled and threw the paper back.
Everyone chuckled at their antics, before getting back to the diminishing pile of gifts in front of them.
Harry settled back, and Ginny curled into his side. They were done opening presents, and so were content to watch their family and friends.
Harry looked over at the witch leaning against him. You know, I suddenly find myself the owner of two top of the line brooms, he commented idly.
Ginny glanced up and raised an eyebrow. Yes… you think you can ride them both at the same time? she asked archly.
Harry shook his head slightly. "Not at all," he murmured. "But I just so happen to have a wonderful wife who is an unparalleled chaser, and could make use of the second broom."
"What?" Ginny yelped, sitting up quickly.
Everyone looked over at them, confused and startled.
Ginny blushed, embarrassed. "Sorry," she muttered.
Molly frowned. "Is everything all right, dear?" she asked, concerned.
Harry smiled. "Everything's fine," he reassured everyone. "I was just commenting on how I now have two Firebolts, and as a chaser, Ginny could certainly use a top of the line broom."
After a moment's shock, Ron grinned. "Can you imagine how the team's going to be with two Firebolts?! No one else will stand a chance!"
Molly continued to frown. "Harry dear, I understand, but you've already gotten Ginny a wonderful broom, there's no need to –"
Harry shook his head, cutting her off. "Molly, if Ginny doesn't ride it, it's just going to collect dust in a broomshed. A broom like that deserves better." He turned to Sirius. "Sirius, you're the one who got me the broom. Is it all right if I give it to Ginny?"
Sirius grinned. "It's your broom, Harry. It's up to you."
Harry beamed and looked at Ginny. "Well?"
Ginny didn't say anything, but the way she launched herself at her boyfriend and tackled him in a huge hug, kissing him passionately, pretty much said she accepted the gift. Pulling back, she beamed. "As long as it's all right with you if Ron takes my Nimbus."
Ron gaped, stuttering out something unintelligible.
Harry nodded, looking over at his best friend. "I think that sounds perfect."
Ron swallowed harshly. "Are you sure?" he finally managed to speak.
Harry shrugged. "It's Ginny's broom, but the same theory applies. A Nimbus 2001 shouldn't be gathering dust in a broom shed. If she wants you to have it, it's yours, mate."
Ron grinned, nodding quickly. "Thanks Ginny!"
Everyone smiled at the game of musical brooms that seemed to be going on, and when they all settled down a few minutes later, Tonks reached for her last present. It had a little note saying 'open last' on it, and she removed the ribbon, confused as to why she had to wait for this one.
Remus shifted slightly away, getting ready; he knew what was inside, of course – it was from him, after all.
Tonks removed the paper, to reveal a small jewelry box. Furrowing her brow, she flipped up the lid and promptly screamed, her hair going from pink to purple and back. She looked up to find Remus kneeling in front of her, a nervous expression on his face.
"Nymphadora Tonks," he ignored the annoyance on her face as he used her full name, "Will you marry me?"
Tonks beamed and threw her arms around his neck. "Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes!" she shrieked, as they toppled over onto the floor.
Around the room, everyone was laughing and clapping as Remus sat up, pulling Tonks with him. His grin could have lit the room, as he pulled the box out of his fiancee's hand and took the ring out, slipping it onto her finger.
They accepted congratulations, before Minerva suggested they get cleaned up and ready for lunch, which would be served shortly.
XXX
The day passed by quietly, with the teens disappearing to watch movies and play video games, while the adults spent some time with Amelia and Sirius, talking about the wedding, and any other lighthearted topics – nothing war related. They just wanted to relax today.
In the Entertainments Suite, the group broke up to different activities; towards the late afternoon, the boys all ended up playing video games, with much shouting at the telly, while the girls drifted off to the opposite corner with several magazines.
Hermione frowned when she noticed that Susan's attention was elsewhere. "What's going on, Sue?" she asked quietly, setting down the copy of Witch Weekly that she had been reading.
Susan looked over, startled. "Huh?" she asked distractedly. Ginny looked over as well, her attention drawn from the edition of the Quibbler in her hands.
Hermione raised an eyebrow. "You seem much more interested in a certain sixth year Gryffindor than you are in that magazine."
Susan sighed, looking down at her lap. "It's so stupid," she muttered. When neither of her friends seemed to be willing to accept that response, she groaned. "We broke up. We agreed that it was all right if we saw other people. But why did he have to choose one of my best friends?"
Hermione and Ginny shared a knowing look, before Ginny leaned forward. "Are you sure you're not upset because you still have feelings for him?"
Susan glared at her, but then her expression softened and she nodded dejectedly. "We broke up because neither of us felt ready for long term commitment. We're not you and Harry, Ginny." Ginny blushed lightly, but didn't speak. "I knew he would probably go out with other people, I just didn't expect to feel like this."
Hermione nodded knowingly. "Susan, you care about Neville. You said it yourself, you didn't break up because you stopped having feelings for each other; you just weren't ready. Did you think you were moving too fast?"
Susan nodded, depressed. "I care for him, so much. But we're just teenagers! We're not supposed to be in love, love, like that."
Ginny shrugged. "Everyone moves at different paces."
Susan rolled her eyes. "You and Harry are soul bonded, Ginny. You were meant for each other from the start. I can't compete with that."
"You're not supposed to," Ginny argued. "You're supposed to muddle along and figure it out at your own pace. When it's right for you, it will happen. I believe that."
Hermione nodded, agreeing. "Harry and Ginny aren't normal, Susan. The rest of us can't hope to match up to them. Even Ron and I have disagreements. I'm trying so hard to get him to grow up more, but it's slow going."
Ginny snorted. "Good luck. I've been working on him for fifteen years, and I still can't see any improvement."
They all laughed, quieting when the boys looked over at them. When no answer was forthcoming though, they turned back to their game. Harry shot Ginny a knowing look, and she shrugged.
Hermione caught the gesture, and narrowed her eyes. "Does Harry know what we're talking about right now?"
Susan looked mortified, and Ginny nodded ruefully. "Don't worry, he won't say anything to anyone. It's hard to keep secrets from him though."
Susan groaned, and Hermione looked intrigued, but didn't ask any more questions, thankfully. She really had changed a lot in the last couple of years; she no longer felt the need to question anything and everything. She was wiling to step back and let people come to her when they were ready, without pushing.
Ginny pursed her lips. "It's not just that he's dating, though. You questioned why he had to choose one of your best friends. You wouldn't be having as much trouble if it wasn't Hannah, would you."
Susan nodded, resigned. "Hannah and I have been friends since before Hogwarts. We backed off a little over the last couple of years, and I guess that's mostly on me, since I've been hanging out with you guys more, but we're still good friends. And she didn't even ask me if it was all right, before she said yes."
Hermione and Ginny made sympathetic sounds. "That's on Hannah," Ginny said softly. "She should have asked. But you and Neville were broken up. If you want to get back together, you need to tell him."
"I don't want to break them up or put Neville in an uncomfortable position," Susan argued. "I'll be fine."
Ginny smiled knowingly. "You're in love with him, Sue. Don't worry, he likes you too. You're going to get back together, just be patient."
Susan raised an eyebrow, but didn't comment, as Ron chose that moment to yell out, "Oi! What're you girls talking about? Don't you want a turn?"
Hermione rolled her eyes, but moved over to join her boyfriend.
Ginny and Susan followed, and the rest of the afternoon was spent playing games, before they put in a movie.
When Sirius came up to get them for dinner, he smiled softly at finding the teenagers all asleep, curled up on the sofa and floor in front of the telly, as the credits to the movie they had been watching rolled.
He decided to let them sleep, since they had already had their larger meal at lunchtime, and dinner would just be soup and sandwiches. Besides, they looked so cute asleep like that he just couldn't wake them up.
He did manage to retrieve his camera and snap a picture without waking any of them, before he headed down to join the adults for dinner.