Author's Note: All the characters belong to JKR, the real genius. Please, Read and Review, and THANKS for all your comments! :)

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Seven years had passed since Voldemort’s defeat…

The Order of the Phoenix no longer existed in its original form. However, its contribution had been so decisive to the Final Victory, that the new Minister of Magic, Amelia Bones, had issued a exceptional decree to turn it into a honorary title. ‘The Order of the Phoenix’ had therefore become the most prestigious award to any witch or wizard for their outstanding fight against the Dark Arts. One by one, the former members of the Order had been honored with this ultimate recognition: Albus Dumbledore, Alastor Moody, Frank and Alice Longbottom (their only son, Neville, had accepted the award on their behalf), Nymphadora Tonks and Severus Snape.

Today, it was Harry Potter’s turn to receive the ‘Order of the Phoenix’. Considering his extraordinary history, the Ministry had to organize a press conference to present this year’s recipient. Thus a dozen of reporters had been carefully chosen and gathered to the conference room of the Ministry of Magic for the special occasion.

So those lucky reporters were waiting, thrilled and hungry, dreaming about the craze their piece would create among their readers. Harry Potter, the most fascinating wizard in a long while, had indeed led a very secret life since the Dark Lord’s defeat, and did a wonderful job in shunning all publicity. Has ‘the Boy-Who-Lived’ changed a lot? The reporters asked themselves many times, while planning their questions for him.

Well, Harry Potter had undoubtedly changed in many ways: he was now twenty-five years old, had become a respected Auror under Alastor Moody’s command, and had lived adventures that could easily fill several novels. But some things never changed: he still hated reporters and loathed the spotlight beyond all imagination. Actually, while the reporters were eagerly waiting for him, he was watching them from behind a closed door, passing nervously his hand in his untidy black hair.

“You’ll be fine, Potter!� Alastor Moody reassured him. “You’ve been through much worst than this!�

“Sir, I would rather face a dozen of Death Eaters alone than spend one minute with those so-called journalists!�

“I know, they just distort everything you say, don’t they? But I will be out there with you, Potter! Let’s show them all what metal you are made of!� Moody said and then turned to the other young man standing at his left “We’re ready, Creevey!�

Colin Creevey nodded and padded Harry on the shoulder. “Good luck, Harry!� he mouthed before opening the door and the three of them entered the conference room.

An explosion of loud, tumultuous voices welcomed their appearance. Harry cursed silently, keeping his bright green eyes down, hoping not to be blinded by the burst of camera flashes. Was that only his impression or the temperature just rose near the boiling point? He barely noticed that Colin, the newly appointed spokesman of the Ministry of Magic, had reached the stand and lifted his hand to silence the crowd.

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Aurors Department press conference!� Collin declared with authority. “Just before we start, please note that our time is short, so only one question is allowed per reporter. Therefore, I rely on your professionalism to make this conference agreeable and beneficial for everyone, and thank you very much in advance for your discipline! Now, it is my honor to present our Minister of Public Security and the Aurors Departement Chief, Mr. Alastor Moody!�

Moody took the stand and nodded to the admiring applauses. His mad eye was searing through the crowd, and some of the reporters shifted uneasily on their seats. The old, legendary Auror still produced that same effect on any person he laid his eye on.

“Thank you for accepting the Ministry’s invitation, ladies and gentlemen!� he said to the crowd. “Please, allow me to say a few words about Harry Potter! We all know the exceptional circumstances that made him ‘the Boy-Who-Lived’. What made him even more remarkable, though, is the way he lived up to that reputation. He had fought and won the final battle against Voldemort…� A few shivers ran through the crowd at the mention of the Dark Lord’s name, but Moody resolutely carried on. “We know him now as ‘the Boy-Who-Won’! And he is continuing his fight against Death Eaters as a valuable member of the Aurors Department. For all that he has done for our community, he deserves respect and gratitude. And that is why the Ministry of Magic is proud to present this year’s recipient of the ‘Order of the Phoenix’, HARRY POTTER!�

Harry stepped forward and a spontaneous standing ovation exploded at the mention of his name. ‘Breath, I can do this! I survived all three Unforgivable Curses!’ He kept encouraging himself, inhaling deeply before taking his place at the stand. In the corner of his eyes, he caught a glimpse of Ron, Hermione and Ginny sitting in the crowd, beaming at him. Thank Merlin! Friendly faces among a pack of wolves! He thought, waving warily at them.

“First question, yes, YOU, sir!� Collin pointed one of the raising arms in front of them.

“Tucker Morgan, from the Auror’s Chronicles!� A bald reporter stood up and introduced himself. His personal Quick-Note Quill immediately sprung above his head with a piece of parchment, ready for action. “Congratulations, Mr. Potter! Your professional record during this past year had been quite impressive: five successful raids as Team Leader, forty-two arrests, and zero casualty among your teammates! Was that simply luck or you were truly born to fight the Dark Arts?�

“I’ve got the chance to work with a brilliant team of Aurors, each of them is highly trained, and deeply devoted to their duty!� Harry answered. “Was I born to fight the Dark Arts? That is one question I would ask my parents if I had the opportunity, so I’ll get back to you for that matter, Mr. Morgan!�

A few laughs were heard, and a new reporter asked his question.

“Lloyd Banes, from the Quibber! About your parents: neither Lily & James Potter, nor their closest friends Sirius Black and Remus Lupin had been awarded the ‘Order of the Phoenix’. Merlin knows all of them had given their lives for the good cause. What is your impression about that unacceptable omission from the Ministry of Magic?�

“Mr. Banes, you may remember that the ‘Order of the Phoenix’ title had been the Ministry's decision. So we all have to trust the Ministry's judgment and decisions concerning its nominations!� Harry tried and succeeded in keeping a straight face. In no way, he could show those reporters how the mention of those beloved persons still made his heart ache. “To me, award or not, my parents and their two best friends were and will always be true heroes. I do hope that my accomplishments, as an Auror, are a tribute to their courage and strong conviction against the Dark Arts!�

“Norma Vega, from the Magic Within, Mr. Potter!� A white-haired woman spoke with a quiet, almost hypnotizing voice. “Your parents were treacherously handled to the Dark Lord. Sirius Black, your Godfather, had spent twelve years in Azkaban, for a crime he did not commit. Remus Lupin, your werewolf former teacher, was killed by the silver hand of his perfidious friend. The author of all three crimes is Peter Pettigrew! Have you found the strength, deep within your heart, to forgive him?�

“Forgive Peter Pettigrew?� Harry frowned at the question and struggled to remain stoic as the torture continued. “Does a traitor need my forgiveness? I do not think so, Mrs. Vega! I leave it to his own conscience, if he ever had one, to take care of that part for him!�

“Carvey Hillier, from the Daily Prophet!� Another question followed instantly. “Mr. Potter, can you, please, tell us again, in your own words, what was the key of your triumph against You-Know-Who?�

That was the question Harry dreaded most. He glanced at his friends, before closing his eyes briefly, preparing himself to tell the ‘politically correct’ version of the event. In spite of what Ron, Hermione, Ginny and himself had really endured during that last battle, he had agreed with Dumbledore to keep some details a secret to protect their lives from the public’s curiosity.

“It was not MY triumph, sir!� Harry insisted on each word. “I remind you all, that Voldemort and his followers had not faced Harry Potter alone that night, but also his friends, his teachers and all righteous students of Hogwarts who had bravely fought against evil. It was friendship that weakened Voldemort! It took strong determination from a lot of people to defeat him! Although you don't know their names, I say that each one of them deserves to stand at my place today. And it was an honor for me to fight at their side during that battle!�

A heavy silence had fallen on the room. All reporters gaped at the ‘Boy-Who-Won’. Of course, they had all hoped to learn some new details about the story that had been repeated ad nauseam over the years. But it would not be today! They all knew it by the way Harry was staring unblinkingly at them, and something in his voice had blocked any further question they might risk on the subject. Colin glanced at Harry, and knew it was time to change the course of the interview. The next journalist was quickly pointed.

“Deborah Shefford, from Magical People!� A young woman responded to Colin’s signal. “You are one of the thirty-five most eligible bachelors on our special edition this year! Please tell us Yes or No we should we keep your name on that list, Mr. Potter?�

“If you want to know if I am officially engaged to marry someone, the answer is 'no'!� Harry replied, choosing his words very carefully.

“Rita Skeeter, I am an independent, Mr. Potter!� A familiar figure now faced Harry, almost defying him through her thick spectacles. “Actually, what we want to know is how you define your relationship with Ginny Weasley, daughter of Arthur Weasley, Minister of Muggle Affairs, sister of your best friend Ronald Weasley, Head of Games and Sports, sister of…�

“Ginny Weasley, like any other Weasley, is part of the only family I have, Mrs. Skeeter!� Harry interrupted curtly, with his fingers crossed in the pocket of his robes. “And I owe the Weasleys everything for treating me like one of their own throughout the years!�

Take that, old bug! Harry nagged silently. That is all that you'll get from me! But he could not gloat long over Rita Skeeter’s disgusted and disappointed expression. He had to answer a few more questions about his typical day as an Auror, what his diet was to remain fit and his opinion about the Blast-Ended Skrewts becoming a protected specie (!)...

“Alexander-George Assante-Smith from W.Q. Magazine, Mr. Potter!� An elegant young reporter stood up. He was dressed in the latest fashion, and glanced openly around to measure the effect on his colleagues.

“I’m sorry, what magazine?� asked Harry, slightly impressed.

“Wizard’s Quarterly Magazine, of course!� The young man immediately lost the confident smirk on his lips, looking shocked by such a lack of pop culture. “You have everything one could desire: friendship, a solid health, a successful career, fortune and fame! Is there anything missing in your life to make it even more complete?�

The question made Harry wince twice before regaining his composure. What to tell Alexander-George ‘Thing’ when he had been asking himself the same question lately and did not come up with a satisfying answer? Indeed, what could make his life more complete? All of a sudden, a crystal sound of laughter, and the image of entwining hands ran cross his mind. But it was all so furtive that he could not analyze their meaning!

The reporter, and his stylish Quick-Note quill were still waiting and Harry’s mind was racing restlessly.

“That was an interesting question!� Harry stated, trying to gain some more time. “In fact, I think no one can boast about living a perfect life, neither can I! But I had learnt to treasure every aspect of my life! For now, I guess I wouldn’t change a single thing!�

Harry knew his answer was less than clear, but he did not care. Finally, every reporter had asked his question, and Colin's applause to Harry's last response announced the end of the conference.

"Thank you so much for your time, Mr. Moody and Mr. Potter! And, Harry, congratulations, again, for your well deserved award!" He said, taking the stand again, so that Harry could step aside. Colin then thanked the reporters for their presence and collaboration in the most diplomatic way, but Harry felt too overwhelmed to appreciate the words.

Again, loud voices and camera flashes accompanied their retreat from the conference room. And, once the door closed behind them, Harry just let out a heavy sigh. For the first time, since this press conference was organized, he could breathe easily again. Mad-Eye Moody looked at him, and his scared face twisted in what looked like a genuine smile.

"You did well, Potter!" He said. "I have only one thing to add: I think you were truly born to fight the Dark Arts! And coming from me, that means something!"

"Thank you, Sir, for everything!"

"Good job, Harry!" Collin shook enthusiastically his hand. "After such a performance, I say you deserve a treat!"

The treat was the comforting sight of Ron, Hermione and Ginny coming towards him. An overjoyed Hermione threw herself at his neck, as Ron surrounded them both with his arms. And they were just standing there, wrapped in a tight embrace, feeling as if they were brought back in time, and they were the Gryffindor Golden Trio again. They kept smiling, but the sheer emotion that filled their hearts now moistened their eyes with tears of joy.

“Congratulations, Harry!� said Hermione when they found their voice again.

“Well done, mate!� Ron shook Harry’s hand, his famous Weasley smile cracking his freckled face. “And for your brilliant answer to that Skeeter woman, I hereby grant you ‘the Order of the Bug’!�

Harry smiled to his best friend, and immediately shifted his attention to Ginny who just tied her arms around his neck.

“I am so proud of you, Harry!� Ginny whispered to him.

The whole world then seemed to vanish. All Harry remembered was how much he loved the sound of Ginny's voice, especially when they were in each other’s arms, like now. Tenderly, he framed her face in his hands and kissed her smiling lips. It felt so right when they were together! And he’d never get tired of smoothing her soft red hair, or losing himself in her amber eyes. Like always, Ginny’s eyes were shining with love for him. But, today, at this moment, he could see a cloud of sadness darkening her gaze. She must be upset about what he had said to the reporters about their relationship, he decided.

“Gin … I’m sorry about … you know ... I don’t mean what I said to Rita Skeeter earlier!� Harry uttered.

“It’s OK, you don’t have to justify!� Ginny touched his cheek. “But tell me that you don’t kiss ‘any other Weasley’ the way you just kissed me!�

“Hey, Weasley, I was serious!�

Ginny burst out laughing, like she always did when Harry used that Quidditch captain’s tone with her. She rose to her feet to kiss him again, and Harry could swear that the cloud in her eyes was still there.

“You mean … so much to me, Ginny!� He pressed her tightly against him. “You know that, don’t you?�

“Yes, Potter, I know!� Ginny replied with a lightness she didn’t feel. “And I also understand you want to keep it from those reporters!�

‘But sometimes, I feel like I never ceased being your Chaser, in every meaning of the word!’ she added silently, as her heart gave a painful squeeze. Harry was about to say something, when Ron’s joyful voice interrupted their moment. Harry and Ginny startled, they had completely forgotten about Ron and Hermione, who had kindly left them alone for the last minutes.

“If you’re done, lovebirds, we have something important to say!� Ron handled them a small, ivory card. “Here are your tickets to Platform 9 3/4! Remember we’ll all leave at 3:00 PM this afternoon!�

“Dumbledore had agreed to lend you the Hogwarts Express?� Ginny looked amazed.

“Yes! He said it was part of Hogwarts’ wedding gift for us!� Hermione smiled with delight. “We and our guests can stay in the dormitories, and the ceremony will be held in Hogwarts magnificent gardens!�

“I have to pick up Mum!� Ginny suddenly remembered, grabbing Hermione’s arm. “Come with me, Hermione, I want to show you what I found for my dress!�

The two young women waved their goodbye before leaving hurriedly. Harry looked at the card: a familiar train, beautifully decorated with flowers, was steaming its way in a bright sunshine. So they would all take the Hogwarts Express to attend Ron and Hermione’s wedding. The small, intimate ceremony they had planned had turned into a gathering for all their friends from Hogwarts, and several members of the Ministry of Magic had confirmed their presence. It would be an unforgettable day!

“Are you all right, Harry?� Ron asked, as his friend kept staring at the wedding ticket.

“I’m fine!� Harry answered, emerging from his deep thoughts. “Sorry, mate, those last days were crazy for me!�

“We understand, don’t worry!� Ron padded him playfully on the shoulder then added in a lower tone. “Look, I want you to know that we are all very happy for you! No one deserves the ‘Order of the Phoenix’ more than you, and don’t you ever doubt that!�

“Don’t use that ‘Head of Games and Sports’ tone with me!� Harry replied in a broad smile. “Why don’t you try it with your bride-to-be? She might be impressed!�

“Nothing can impress Super Healer Granger from St-Mungo’s Hospital! I understood that long before she agreed to marry me!� Ron said, and Harry secretly envied the love that showed in his voice when he spoke about Hermione. “By the way, you are still my Best Man, so don’t miss the train, OK? I talked to Mad-Eye: he gladly released you from duty for the next week, so you can properly prepare for your best friend’s wedding. Who says he’s not cool, huh?�

Harry looked at his commander who was still talking with Colin a few steps away. Mad-Eye was certainly one special character, but ‘cool’ would never apply to him.

“I wouldn’t miss your wedding for anything in the world, believe me!� Harry told Ron, knowing for a fact that the next days would be, indeed, memorable!

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A/N: Thanks SO MUCH for reading :) Sorry about this LONG first chapter (!), but I had to 'pave the way' for the next stories. Please, let me know what you think, OK? I can't wait for your comments, THANKS again !!! :) :)

Author's Note: Hi! Here comes the 2nd Chapter! Please, Read and Review! Again, all characters belong to JKR. I just fancy them in writing!! :) :)

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Hi, Hermione
Sorry about the delay, here come ‘you-know-what’ as promised and answers to your questions:
1) No problem. 2) I know. 3) Sounds good. 4) OK, I will NOT forget!
Got to run now! See you (Ha Ha…) later.
Harry


Harry tossed his quill, placed his short note in the parcel, along with his Invisibility Cloak, and hurried Hedwig to deliver it to Hermione. He had teased her many times about observing that absurd Muggle superstition, but he had clearly underestimated her will to do things properly. “A groom must not see his bride the day before the wedding.� Hermione had stated. “Thanks to your Invisibility Cloak, Ron will not see me wandering around, taking care of the last preparations! And stop laughing, Harry! This is tradition, not superstition.�

Whatever you say, bossy bride-to-be! Harry thought, adding a few shopping bags (his last-minute purchases on Diagon Alley) to his trunk. He dragged it out of the 12th Grimmauld Place, sealed his house with a wave of his wand before apparating on King’s Cross.

It was a warm summer afternoon. Although it was two hours away from rush hour, the station was already crowded with travelers. They all walked fast, glancing worriedly at the departures board, paying no attention to the black-haired young man who just popped up from nowhere. Actually, dressed in a casual black T-Shirt and an old pair of jeans, Harry could pass for any ordinary passenger heading for their train. Needless to say, after the press conference he had endured this morning, he enjoyed immensely being just a face in the crowd. There was no one to whisper behind his back, or to stare at his forehead, like many still did after all these years.

After a cautious glance around, Harry smoothly walked through the barrier dividing Platforms 9 and 10. He smiled broadly at the sight of the Hogwarts Express puffing clouds of steam on Platform 9¾. I am going back to Hogwarts! He thought, as an indescribable joy filled his heart. This time, there were no parents waving their children off to school or excited students struggling with their luggage. However, as he came aboard, Harry realized things had not changed much since his school years. The first compartments were already full. People were walking in all directions, trying to find a seat or to spot a friend in the train.

Harry found Hermione in a compartment nearby. She was pointing at a hand-drawn map, explaining some crucial matters to her mother and Ginny. Mr. Weasley, as usual, was in deep conversation with Mr. Granger.


“Good afternoon, everyone!� Harry said.


They all greeted him warmly. Hermione gave him a mutinous smile, pointing the parcel she just received from him, and mouthed a silent ‘Thank You’ over Mrs. Granger’s shoulder. In the passage, a few persons urged him to move forward, for his trunk was blocking the way.


“Sorry, I’ll see you all later,� Harry apologized. “I’ll go look for Ron.�


Again, they waved him off. Harry noticed how pleased they all looked to see him on board, especially Ginny. As their hands touched briefly on his way out, he could say she was relieved he did not miss the train because of some Auror emergency.


“Oy, Harry, come this way!� a joyful voice rose, and two familiar red heads emerged a few steps away.


Time and wealth seemed to have no effect on the Weasley twins: Fred and George constantly looked up to no good, and the devilish twinkle in their eyes was shining brighter than ever. Harry knew business was booming at their joke-shop, judging by the generous shares of profits that had been regularly transferred in his personal vault at Gringotts. That, at least, was the bright side of winning the Triwizard Tournament!


“Nice to see you, partner!� Fred said, shaking Harry’s hand.

“It’s about time you show up,� George added. “Ronniekins can definitely use an Auror’s help. Right, Fred?�

“How is Ron?� Harry asked.

“Come and see for yourself.�


Harry followed the twins in the compartment at their right, and immediately repressed a giggle: Ron was standing, his back to the window, looking totally crushed, not by nervousness, but by his mother’s emotional hug.


“Look, Mum, Harry’s here!� Ron uttered. “Help!� He mouthed to Harry and his brothers.

“Hello, Harry dear,� Molly wiped a tear from her cheek, without releasing her youngest son. “It is a blessing to have all of you here … with me … at my baby boy’s wedding.�

‘Baby boy’, did he really hear ‘baby boy’? Harry glanced at the twins who simply shrugged, enjoying Ron’s red squirming face. Fred and George let Mrs. Weasley coo for a few minutes more, than decided to intervene.


“Please, Woman, don’t choke our ‘baby’ brother before his wedding day.� Fred said, trying to untie his mother’s arms.

“Yeah! We had promised our mother to keep a protective eye on him.� George explained patiently, as if Molly did not speak English. “Do you know our mother, Madam? Her name is Molly. She gave us LIFE …�

“And she had sworn that if we don’t behave at Ronniekins’ wedding, she will take it back!�


Harry and Ron burst out laughing, and Molly finally let Ron off. She turned to Harry, her eyes still damp with tears of joy.


“You look good, dear!� she said fondly. “Good, but a bit thin. With all the time Ginny spent at your house, couldn’t she fix you a decent meal?�

“Honestly, Mum,� George shrieked. “Who cares about cooking when his girlfriend is around?�

“Besides,� Fred laughed openly at Harry’s crimson face, “Ginny would rather fix Harry himself than his meal!�


Luckily, a long whistle was heard, and the Hogwarts Express started to move, setting an end to the ‘cooking’ subject. Molly suddenly remembered some urgent task, and decided she had to find her husband.


“All these years, and this train just stayed the same,� she complained, pointing at the broken door of their compartment. “I’ll have to talk to Dumbledore. He must improve the quality of Hogwart’s transportation.�

“You do that, Mum!� Fred nodded approvingly. “And tell him that this place is infested with spiders too.�


After another affectionate hug to Ron and Harry, Mrs. Weasley finally left, closely followed by Fred and George, who had stuck a fake, hairy tarantula on her shoulder.

Harry and Ron looked at each other, letting out a sigh of relief. They fell on the bench, looking Platform 9¾ slowly disappear, as the Hogwarts Express was speeding out of King’s Cross.


“Hey, I have a surprise for you!� Ron said, opening a large bag, hidden under his seat.


They both laughed childishly at the mountain of sweets Ron had brought: Chocolate Frogs, Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor-Beans, Sherbet Balls, Cauldron Cakes … It just looked as if a smaller version of Honeydukes had materialized right before their eyes!


“Remember that first time you bought the whole food trolley for us to share?� Ron asked, handling his friend a handful of Pumpkin Pasties. “I have always wanted to return the favor. It’s good to have you here, mate!�

“It’s good to be here.� Harry replied.


So, this was Ron playful way to express how he valued their friendship. Harry just grinned, and shoved hungrily a Pumpkin Pasty in his mouth. Ron did the same and soon, they were both laughing, talking with their mouths full of candies. There was no more Auror, or Ministry, but just two friends enjoying their time together. After a while, their conversation naturally landed on Quidditch. Ron was thrilled about the next World Cup, the first he would attend as Head of Games and Sports.


“England has a good chance this year,� Harry declared. “I will bet ten Galleons that all Chudley Cannons players will be selected for the national team.�


Ron’s smile suddenly shrunk a little, and Harry gave himself a mental kick for mentioning the Cannons in front of his friend. For a moment, he had forgotten that Ron had applied, a few years ago, for the Keeper position in his favorite team. His request had unfortunately been turned down in favor of Oliver Wood, who had joined the cannons in a famous multiple-players trade with Puddlemere.


“Sorry, mate! I didn’t mean to …�

“It’s OK,� Ron replied quite rapidly. “Actually, it was a good thing they signed Oliver. Besides, I have lots of fun planning and organizing games and sports: it’s like playing chess everyday. And think about the awesome seats I can get for the next World Cup!�

“I know you’re a hit at the Ministry.� Harry added warily. “Still, I think you were a sure bet for the Cannons back then. I don’t understand they did not, at least, give you a try.�


This time, Ron’s face became serious. He glanced cautiously at the open door of their compartment before looking back at his hands, avoiding Harry’s eyes.


“Well … I never told anyone, so promise me you will not slip a word about this, not to Ginny, not to Hermione, NO ONE!� Ron cleared his throat. “Actually, the Cannons did offer me the Keeper job. And I was the one turning it down!�

“Ron, it was … your dream to play professional Quidditch, to go international...� Harry was stunned by Ron’s confidence.

“Right! But I reckoned I belonged here, with my family, my friends, and of course, Hermione...�

“Hermione? I’m sure she ….�

“…Would be the first person urging me to achieve my dream, I know. That was why I … changed the version a bit, so nobody would know. I wanted to stay by her side, because she had done exactly the same for me.�


Harry did not have a clue, so Ron carried on.


“Remember our final year? After Hermione got her N.E.W.T. results, job offers had been flooding in. One of them had come from Gringotts Bank: they offered her the position of 'Senior Analyst – Ancient Runes & Foreign Civilizations'. And Bill told me that she had seriously considered accepting it. Knowing Hermione, it was her dream job! Then, came that night...�


Ron’s voice faded, as painful memories were dug up again. “That night, You-Kn … I mean … Voldemort knocked me off with this ugly spell he had invented! I was lucky he partly missed his target and the curse did not hit me in its full deadly extent. I was stone cold on the ground, but I was still conscious. I could hear Voldemort yell the Killing Curse at you. And I could hear you and Ginny cast the Reversio Charm, making him fall for good. Then, I could feel Hermione’s arms around my body, her teardrops upon my face. You know, Harry, for the first time, I could hear her swear like a trooper. She was beyond herself, angry for what had been done to me, and for not being able to help me before rescue arrived. That night, she swore to become a Healer, to devote her whole life if she had to, to find the cure that would save me.�

“The Hermione Countercurse!� Harry whispered.

“Exactly,� Ron nodded. “She never told anybody the reason of her decision to become a Healer, including me. But I knew why she had refused Gringotts’s offer. We all thought she spent a whole month to find the countercurse. In fact, she had found it after two weeks. She did not eat, or sleep, just kept searching through tons of books. And once I was saved, Hermione could simply forget about the whole thing and pursue the carrier of her dreams. But she stood by her words: she became the best Healer St-Mungo had ever relied on. She had chosen to stay at my side no matter what, to be prepared if the effects of the curse ever reappear to hurt me again. All of that, because she loves me, Harry!�


Harry felt his own heart ache with admiration for Hermione, and for Ron. All those years, he thought he knew every detail of the night that changed the wizarding world forever. The truth was, however, beyond his imagination. And the aftermaths of that night were still affecting their lives: his and his loved-ones.


“I owe her my life,� Ron concluded, smiling now through his misty eyes. “I love her more than words can express, and certainly more than any Keeper job the Chudley Cannons could offer me.�

“I didn’t know … Sorry...� Harry uttered, searching the right words to tell his friend.

“Don’t be! After all, the story will have a happy ending, right? Hermione and I are getting married tomorrow. And hey, I should be the one getting emotional, not you!�


Ron padded Harry on the shoulder then threw him a Chocolate Frog. They both grinned, and focused again on the candies in Ron’s handbag…

*******

A few compartments away, a door slid open and closed hurriedly. A tearful Hermione tossed the Invisibility Cloak from her body. Fortunately, everyone had left, and she could sob freely, her face buried in her hands. That red-head! She thought, still shaking with tears. This is the second occasion he made me cry! This time, there was no Moaning Myrtle, or giant troll as witness. But, there was Ginny, who just walked in her sobbing session with the most worried expression on her face.

“Hermione, please, what happened?� Ginny’s arms closed affectionately around Hermione’s shoulders.

“It’s Ron …He said …� Hermione could not continue, as hiccups turned her breathless.

“Ron? This headless brother of mine said something wrong again, did he?�

“No…�

“Is it about the wedding?�

“No… Gin … ny … No …�

“No what?�

Then Hermione’s face came out of her hands, showing to a stunned Ginny her most beautiful smile, although tears still rolled freely down her cheeks.

“He … loves me, Gin! Ron … really … loves me.�

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A/N: THANKS SO MUCH for reading! The next chapter will be R/Hr's wedding. Looks like a good deal, doesn't it? :D :D :D
Bye Bye, don't forget to review! - Neli-

Disclaimer: All those wonderful characters belong to JKR, and I just fancy them in writing.

*~*~*~*~*

The rain kept falling, endless and cold, from the dark, cloudy sky.

Hermione stirred weakly on the ground. “I’m still alive!� she thought, gasping for air. How long had she been lying in the mud, feeling the freezing raindrops seep through her skin, deep to her bones? Her entire body was crying for mercy; every muscle was aching; every nerve was burning. She had studied for years, but never fully expected the painful extent of the Cruciatus Curse.

“Ginny,� she breathed, wondering where her friend might be.

She remembered, just before losing consciousness, that the youngest Weasley had tried to help her. But Voldemort had shoved Ginny away with a wave of his wand, punishing her for defeating Bellatrix Lestrange, his most loyal follower, earlier that day.

“Hermione!� someone screamed her name in the night and the sound of footsteps was zooming on her.

“Look who is here!� Voldemort’s cold, cruel voice spoke again. “The Mudblood is dead. You are late, as usual.�

“You will pay for this!� Hermione recognized Ron, who sounded hurt and panicked.

Immediately, sparks started flying from one side to the other. Gathering her last ounce of strength, Hermione rose to her elbows. Her blurry eyes caught sight of Ron and Harry, dripping wet, casting desperate spells on Voldemort. They were obviously no match to the Dark Lord, who shot a blinding stream of light that hit Ron on the face and threw him to the ground.

“Ron!� Ginny and Harry shouted.

Ginny staggered towards her brother. ‘She must be injured too, judging by the way she collapsed besides him.’ Hermione turned her gaze to Harry and the pain that contorted his face struck her breathless.

“Blood traitors!� Voldemort smirked, enjoying the situation immensely. “Is that all Dumbledore had taught you? One thing you should have learnt is never to defy the Dark Lord.�

No one, including Dumbledore, had ever understood why the Dark Lord did not strike at that very moment. Some people stated that extending his victims’ suffering had always been one of You-Know-Who’s favorite games; others thought that he had simply been overconfident about his final victory. In any case, he just stood there, watching a hopeless young girl crying over her brother.

But, Ron miraculously stirred and turned his face towards Hermione. Warily, his eyes seemed to search through the rainy night then finally locked on hers, silently urging her to focus.

“…Asked … Harry … care of you …and …Ginny …� Ron’s halting voice suddenly invaded her mind.

Hermione shook her head. During their last year at Hogwarts, Ron had learnt bits of Legilimency, although he had always considered it dark arts. What could make him use his skills now? Hermione dared not delve further into the question.

“…Sorry …what I’m …’bout …to do …� he continued.

This look in Ron’s eyes, Hermione had seen it once before! It was at their first year, when he had entered the giant Wizard’s Chess board to get to the Philosopher Stone. Hermione kept trying, but the surge of energy she needed never came. Her mind went blank, although she desperately tried to dissuade him from his plan. She even lacked the strength to break their eye contact in order to shut his painful words out of her mind.

“… Love you...�

Ron’s final words echoed in her head, as her eyes were drowned in tears. She urged her body to move but, like a ragged puppet, she just succeeded in stirring a few dead leaves. She could only watch Ron rise to his feet, swaying with pain. He glanced at his sister before calling out to Voldemort.

“Hey, Riddle!� Ron started hoarsely, but loud enough to jerk the Dark Lord’s attention towards him.

“Are you talking to ME, boy?� Voldemort’s nostrils were quivering dangerously.

“Yeah, you, Tom Marvolo Riddle!� Ron continued rudely, his eyes feverish with defiance. “Mind you, some people were even afraid to call you Voldemort! But your name is Riddle, and you are nothing more than a half-blood. You’ve just been trying to prove that you belong to our world, haven’t you? Well, your silly attempts might have scared the weak ones, but you’ll never fool us! You really want to know what we have learnt from Dumbledore? He actually taught us to see clear into your game.�

Voldemort’s satisfied grin froze, then rapidly faded as Ron’s insults cut in. Every time he heard his despised father’s name or his former teacher’s, a cold, deep anger hardened his features. He had forgotten about Ginny, who had picked up her wand before inching besides Harry. He had not seen Harry take Ginny’s trembling hand in his, before they lifted their wands, ready to perform the Reversio Charm.

Actually, all Voldemort could see at that moment was this red-haired boy, who kept facing him with all the arrogance his bruised body could muster.

“Filthy little blood traitor!� he hissed. “You are such a fool, and now you will die!�

A purple stream was shot at Ron, knocking him a few steps backwards. For years later, the sight of Ron collapsing in a heap would haunt Hermione’s nightmares. The pain she felt was so acute, as if she actually was the one struck by Voldemort’s curse. She let out a scream, before crawling towards Ron.

“AVADA KEDAVRA� she heard Voldemort yell.

“REVERSIO� Harry and Ginny shouted back.

The Killing Curse was made to bounce back to the Dark Lord, striking him with his own deadly power. However, Hermione, in her urge to reach Ron, had seen none of this; neither had she witnessed the most feared wizard collapse, stone cold, on the ground.

“Please, don’t leave me!� she uttered between sobs, wrapping her arms around Ron’s limp body. “Come back to me, Ron! Don’t you dare quit on me!�

The numbness that only anger could bring slowly took on Hermione’s mind. “I won’t loose him to Voldemort,� she swore through her clenching teeth. Somebody touched her arm, but she shoved it away unceremoniously.

“Hermione,� Ginny whispered her name again.

Hermione kept trembling. And the cold, endless rain kept falling…

“Hermione�


*~*~*~*~*


“Hermione, is everything all right?� Ginny’s worried eyes were looking for hers.

Hermione snapped back to reality. She was standing beside her father, ready to walk down the aisle. Looking over Ginny’s shoulder, she could see Ron and Harry in their best dress robes, smiling at her from the altar. A murmur was running over the crowd as all the guests turned their heads toward her, and the women sighed fondly at the sight of the gorgeous bride.

Hermione blinked, feeling the warm sunshine caress her face. All around her was alight with flowers, friendship and love. They were at Hogwarts, and she was about to live the most beautiful day of her life.

“Yes, every thing is perfect!� she whispered to Ginny.

Hermione then smiled to her father, just before invisible violins started playing a melodious wedding song, announcing the beginning of the ceremony.

True to their word, Fred and George had charmed hundreds of rose-buds to hang in mid-air, floating over the assistance. As Maid of Honor, Ginny opened the march to the altar under this awesome cloud of flowers. She walked slowly, holding a lovely bouquet of white roses, her slender body hugged in a shimmering ice-blue dress. She looked so beautiful that Molly Weasley could not help sobbing in her lace handkerchief, mouthing “My baby girl� to an equally proud Arthur.

Then it was Hermione’s turn to walk down the aisle at her father’s arm. She just glowed in an ivory satin gown, her hair held in an elegant bun by tiny roses and pearls. For the first time that day, Ron felt his throat tighten. And if wonder had a name, he would certainly spell it ‘Hermione Granger’, as he watched her come gracefully towards him.

When the bride reached the altar, Ron came forward to take Hermione’s hand in his. Mr. Granger’s eyes were shining with emotion as he gave out his only daughter.

“Take good care of my daughter!� he silently commanded, needing no magic to pass his message.

“I will� Ron nodded resolutely to his future father-in-law.

Mr. Granger finally gave them both a fond smile before taking his place on the first row, besides his wife.

Hermione handed Ginny her bridal bouquet, and turned to her groom. Judging by his astounded face, there was no doubt in his mind that she was the most beautiful woman in the world at this very moment. Professor Dumbledore, who had kindly agreed to master the ceremony, smiled at them and spoke with a clear, strong voice.

“Distinguished guests, dear friends, we have been invited today to share with Hermione and Ron a very important moment. In the years they have been together, their love and understanding of each other has grown and matured, and now they have decided to live their lives together as husband and wife. Let us all witness this man and this woman’s promises of love! Mr. Weasley, would you please, begin!�
Ron took Hermione’s hand and presented her the wedding ring. He needed no effort to remember his vows, for every word was coming straight from his heart and soul.

“Hermione, take this ring as a pledge of my love and fidelity to you. I promise we will live every chapter of our life together. I will stand by you in sunshine or darkness, through any adventure, challenge, laughter or tears our story may bring. And I give you my word that love will be present all the way.
"Be mine, to honor and to cherish, to protect and to treasure, as long as we both shall live�

Hermione gazed fondly at her hand, then at Ron. Like a dream, the image of a young girl with bushy hair and a freckled boy with dirt on his nose flashed in her mind. They had gone through so much since then, she thought. And now, it just felt so right for them to spend the rest of their lives together, so obvious for her to pledge her love to him.

“Ronald, today I give you my hand, my heart, all I am, and all I am to become. I promise to stand by you always, in trials and in blessings.
"Be mine, to honor and to cherish, to inspire and to comfort, as long as we both shall live�

For a moment, Hermione kept the ring in her hand, before carrying on in a lower voice:

“Sunshine daisies, butter mellow… Turn this ring to my pledge of love.�

“Are you sure that’s a real spell?� Ron asked softly, watching her place the ring on his finger.

“Real and very powerful,� she whispered, leaning closer to him, as they both became oblivious to the crowd of family and friends. “The last time someone said it to me; I fell utterly in love with him.�

“Lucky bloke!� Ron smiled.

They were so lost in each other’s gaze, that Dumbledore subtly cleared his throat to bring them back to reality. The old wizard’s eyes twinkled with affection, as he went on with the ceremony.

“Dear Ron, dear Hermione, you had first come to Hogwarts as two promising students. You have returned as two valuable persons, whose accomplishments will always fill us with pride. But now on, there will be only one life ahead that you will spend together, hand in hand, as husband and wife! May you be friends to each other as only lovers can; and may you love each other as only best friends can. Mr. Weasley, you may kiss the bride!�

The Headmaster placed his hands on the newly weds’ shoulders, and drew them a step closer to each other. Hermione blinked a tear of joy as Ron’s hands tenderly tightened on her waist.

“I love you!� they both murmured, before his lips lovingly touched hers in their first kiss as a married couple.

“Distinguished guests, dear friends, I now introduce to you Ronald and Hermione Weasley!�

All the guests instantly came to their feet to cheer for the new couple.

“Congratulations,� Harry said, hugging his two best friends, “you two deserve all the best!�

Ginny joined in their embrace a moment later.

“Finally, I have a sister!� she threw her arms around Hermione, and then turned to Ron. “I am so proud of you, big brother! I wish you both to live the best love story ever.�

A camera started to flash, and a smiling Collin Creevey waved at them.

“Beautiful!� he nodded approvingly, “Now, come up the aisle, all of you. Not too fast, OK? I want those pictures to be perfect!�

The bride and groom turned to the assistance, smiling at their families and friends who kept clapping joyfully. Behind them, Harry took Ginny’s hand in his, although he was longing to hold her and kiss her endlessly since the moment she walked down the aisle. Instead, he just fondly wiped a tear from her cheek, before they followed Ron and Hermione.

Somewhere in the crowd, Fred and George winked at each other and pointed their wands to the sky. Petals of roses started raining over the two couples on their way up the aisle, as gasps of awe, once more, echoed in the crowd.



A/N: Thanks for Reading, and thanks again for taking two minutes to Review!

MA_RAIE, you are simply the best! Thanks so much for adding the magic touch that helped this chapter look better :) :) * Neli *

Author's Note: Thank you, JKR, for creating such wonderful characters.
And Thank You, dearest Ma_Raie, for your magic touch and your support in this chapter. This 'two-thumbs-up' is for you! :) :)


*********



The Hogwarts’ gardens were buzzing with laughs and conversations as the wedding reception kept going on.


True to their reputation, the house-elves had worked relentlessly during the last few days, and the banquet they had served was a delight to all the guests. Thus, compliments were raining on Dobby, the only elf appointed by the others to attend the reception. Although Hermione had insisted on having him at their table, Dobby had preferred circling the place at his leisure, wearing his neatest pillowcase and a pair of brand new red socks.


As most of the guests were once Hogwarts students, they all took the opportunity to catch up with old friends, chattering endlessly, reliving their memories. Soon, the former Quidditch payers, including the groom himself, started shifting in their seats. They began eying Oliver Wood and the Quidditch pitch, fancying a game as soon as they could take off without offending the older teachers and members of the Ministry attending the feast.


Curiously, Quidditch was the last of Fred and George Weasley’s concerns at this moment. Their minds were focused on the heated discussion with their young sister in the deserted Great Hall of Hogwarts.


“My decision is final,� Ginny declared, her amber eyes were glowing with determination, “and I told you, it has nothing to do with the job itself.�


The twins frowned, folding their arms over their chests. Once more, they were bombing Ginny with questions, challenging her resignation from her job as the Weasleys Wizards Wheezes’ manager.


“First, you can’t quit now!� George started. “Second, if this was a joke…�

“It is absolutely NOT funny,� continued Fred, “because we can’t run the place without your help.�

“But we can give you a pay rise.�

“If it could make you change your mind.�


Ginny could not answer any of those questions, for Professor Flitwick just came down the stairs. All three Weasleys nodded at him, and the old Charm teacher threw his tiny arms around Fred and George’s necks. Oh, not again, Ginny knew by heart what would come next; he will start the same song about …


“… I still keep a tiny patch of your swamps in my classroom,� said Flitwich squeakily, “it was a really good bit of magic!�


Fred and George were clearly flattered by the compliment. Yet their smiles immediately vanished as soon as Professor Flitwick turned on his heel to go back to the feast. They stared at their young sister, clearly expecting a satisfactory explanation.


“I told you I have other plans,� Ginny said. “My resignation seems sudden to you, and for that I am truly sorry! But, believe me, it is the best thing for the shop. Besides, I have found you a new manager!� she added triumphantly. “Lee Jordan, your old friend, will gladly take on the job as soon as we ask him too.�

“Lee was back from his trot around the globe only yesterday,� said Fred, “when exactly did you talk to him about all this?�


Ginny had heard from her brothers that Lee was done with traveling the world, but had so far no good reason to remain in England. Her proposal was the best solution he could hope for to lay his backpack down for awhile, and he had eagerly agreed to her offer.


“I ran into him yesterday night, near the boys’ dormitories,� she answered.

“Ginny, what were you doing near the boy’s dormitories yesterday night?� asked George, who looked resolute to make things difficult for his sister.

“I went look… Hey, that’s none of your business, George!� Ginny pointed her Maid of Honor bouquet toward the twins’ faces. “Anyway, Lee and I have agreed on a salary of fifteen thousands Galleons a year, plus 10 percent of the annual benefits. He also volunteered to stay in the room above the shop to keep a close eye on things. And the best part is: he insisted on participating in the creation process, and helping you expand the line of products!�


Fred and George looked at each other, momentarily distracted by the thrill they felt about working again with their old partner-in-crime. But Ginny’s so-called “other plans� still puzzled them.


“What are you up to, Ginny?� asked Fred, “not planning to join ‘Lots-4-Laughs’, are you?�

“Actually, it is ‘Laughs-4-Lots’,� Ginny corrected, looking offended. “How dare you even think that I, your sister and a Weasley, would join your competitor?�

“I know, you want to settle down…�

“To start the next generation of Potters…�

“And ‘scourgify’ their diapers for the next twelve years.� George was clearly fishing for clues.


Ginny still shook her head, smiling now at the twins’ disgusted faces. I wouldn’t trade my brothers for anything in the whole world, she thought fondly. She had loved working with them. But now she had to follow her heart, no matter how she would miss the shop and the laughs.


“Look, I had enjoyed every minute working with you two.� Ginny said, giving them both a peck on the cheek. “But I need to move on. And, for the first time in my life, I want to fly on my own. You can understand that, don’t you?�

“We do,� Fred nodded thoughtfully, “but to fly where, exactly?�


Ginny hesitated briefly. Then all of a sudden, her eyes sharpened while looking over George’s shoulder. She pouted her lips, and pointed a finger towards a precise spot above the large door. A shriek of pain echoed in the hall, as Peeves was thrown forcefully from his favorite hiding place, where he had been eavesdropping on them. The poltergeist fled hurriedly, wailing the ugliest curses he could mutter under the circumstances.


“Hey, that was … cool!� George whistled with admiration.

“Thank you! And now, if you excuse me, I still have my Maid of Honor’s duties to attend to!�


Ginny smoothed her blue dress, and hugged the twins once more before heading back to the reception. She still felt her brothers’ gaze on her back, and bits of their conversation just widened her smile.


“Did you see what she did, Fred?�

“I have, George. And I wonder what other tricks Harry has taught our baby sister.�

“Without her, it won’t be easy at the shop! She always had that magic touch with kids.�

“Anyway, Mum will hex us if she thought we sacked Ginny to hire Lee.�

“I bet Ronniekins has offered her a job at the Ministry.�

“You might be right, George. But I heard something about the Chaser position with Pudlemere!�


The twins kept speculating, as they went back to the reception…


***


Ginny met Harry halfway to the gardens. He responded to her smile, as she greeted him with open arms.


“Hello, handsome,� she whispered, realizing they had barely talked to each other for the last three days.

“Hi, pumpkin,� Harry gave her a friendly hug, although his bright green eyes meant so much more. “Be careful, Rita Skeeter is here!�


So, with his arm around her shoulder in a brotherly manner, Ginny walked back to their table. Indeed, Rita Skeeter had somehow wormed her way into the wedding reception, watching Harry’s every move through her thick spectacles. Right next to her was sitting a chubby, bald man, who immediately lifted his camera and snapped a few pictures as they passed. Glancing at Harry, Ginny could see him frown, and his grip grew tighter on her shoulder.


“Just ignore them,� Ginny said as they reached the top table. “It’s time for you to toast the bride and groom.�

“Yeah, the toast!� Harry rubbed his forehead, “I can’t think about anything original to say. Every one here has already known Ron and Hermione’s story…�

“You know, it is always fun to hear a good story again, mostly when it’s told from a different angle. Go on, Potter, I know you can do it!�


Right, easy for her to say, Harry mumbled, she had been one of the most popular Prefects and Head Girls Hogwarts had known for years. And I just hate making a show of myself! But let’s go on with it!


“Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention, please?�


The tumultuous sound of conversation rapidly faded, and all the guests turned their eyes toward the top table. Harry was now standing next to the newly wed couple, holding a flute of champagne in his hand for the Best Man’s toast.


“I have been asked, by many of you, to reveal a few secrets about Ron and Hermione’s love story.� Harry started, smiling at his friends. “When I think about their relationship, three words come to my mind: Friendship, Sparks and Animals.�

“Manners, Harry!� Fred shouted from the Weasleys’ table.

“Don’t be too graphic, Potter!� Lee Jordan added loudly, provoking whoops and giggles around him.

“I will explain, don’t worry!� Harry continued. “You must wonder why I mentioned the animals. Well, at our first year, Hermione first ran into Ron aboard the Hogwarts Express, looking for a toad. Although Ron failed to turn his rat yellow to impress her, they became friends by knocking out a twelve-foot mountain troll. And together, they had later handled, in turn, a baby dragon and a three-head dog. At our second year, Ron had ended up spitting slugs after trying to defend Hermione’s honor. Not bad, isn’t it, for someone who had declared: ‘Whatever house I’m in, I hope she’s not in it’?�


Ron’s ears went red at the souvenir. He simply shrugged as Hermione lovingly glared at him. There was laughter in the audience, and Rubeus Hagrid, the gamekeeper and teacher at Hogwarts, was of course the loudest.


“To help Hermione recover from her bad encounter with a monstrous snake,� Harry carried on, “Ron had ventured into a giant spider’s nest. And in spite of their constant bickering about her cat and his rat, Hermione had never hesitated to run after Ron when he was dragged away by a black dog.�


Harry’s voice quavered slightly and he covered it by clearing his throat. “He was getting quite good at this exercise�, Ginny observed silently from the other side of the table. He glanced at her briefly before regaining his composure to continue his toast.


“After all these adventures, Ron and Hermione have been drawn so close to each other that even a beetle could not come between them. They became an unbeatable team, whether they were petting Blast-Ended Skrewts or riding a thestral.

“Ladies and gentlemen, what you have witnessed today was not only a happy ending, but a new beginning of their story. And I can tell that the best is yet to come for the two persons I am privileged to call my best friends. So, please join me and let’s raise our glasses to their happiness!�


Harry’s eyes sparkled, just like the champagne he raised toward his friends.


“Here’s to the prettiest, here’s to the wittiest! Here’s to the neatest one, here’s to the righteous one! Here’s to them in one. Hermione, Ron, here’s to YOU, lovebirds!�

“To Hermione and Ron!� The other guests followed Harry’s example and emptied their glasses.


The music started again, and Ron took Hermione’s hand to open the dance. Ginny immediately joined the other guests to cheer on them. With tears in her eyes, she remembered what Ron had once said to her: “I dance with my heart, not with my body.� The Weasley children had teased Ron senseless about this “excuse for being a lousy dancer�. But now, watching Ron swaying with ease beside his bride, there was no doubt he had found the one love that could make his heart dance.


“Excuse me, Miss, I fancy a dance with the gorgeous Maid of Honor.� Harry’s soft voice instantly made her knees go weak.


Ginny took his outstretched hand and Harry put his arm round her waist. Soon, she found herself dancing on magic legs, as if she was hit by the “Potter Charm�. What would he think about my new career? She asked herself for the hundredth time. The one reason why she had kept her future plan secret was indeed the fear it would drift them apart. But she had to take a chance; she had to tell Harry as soon as possible before he heard it from someone else. Merlin, it is difficult! She thought, knowing, deep in her soul, that whatever happened, her heart could never dance with any other partner than him.


“Harry, I have something to tell you…� Ginny whispered, locking her gaze to his bright green eyes.


*********

A/N: Thanks so much for Reading! Now, please, take two minutes to review, OK? :) :)

Author’s Note: Sorry about the delay, here is the sequence to my terrible cliffhanger of the last chapter. Please, Read and Review!
I wish those wonderful characters were mine, but *sigh* they belong to a genius named J.K. Rowling. Again, THANK YOU, dear ma_raie, for your support and hard work in this chapter.


*********


Sitting alone at a table near the dance floor, Alastor Moody was sipping a fuming cup of tea. He had always considered dancing a waste of time and energy, unless he was working undercover or it was the only way to collect more information on the enemy.


Moody let his mad eye wander through the crowd. This reception was indeed a real success in his point of view. There was, for once, no Death Eater suspect in sight, and Hogwarts was obviously a place too secure for any dark magic trick. Thus, he could allow himself to lower his constant vigilance for a moment.


A few young couples joined the dance floor, and Moody had the clear impression they all held their breath while passing in front of him. He simply nodded at them, secretly amused. In fact, the legendary Auror could count on fingers of one hand the few persons who were not intimidated by his scars or his apparent harshness: his old friend Dumbledore of course, then there were Lily and James Potter. Moody remembered clearly the red-haired young woman who had, somehow, seen right through him with her startling emerald eyes. He also remembered how her cleverness and strength had inspired James to become one of the best Aurors he ever had under his command.


A few steps away from him, Harry Potter was leading Ginny Weasley on the dance floor. They were dancing close, both seemed lost in their own thoughts, oblivious to Rita Skeeter’s hungry stare and her photographer’s camera flashes. Young love, Moody shook his head, certain that Harry will have to spend the next month justifying his ‘brotherly’ dance with his best friend’s little sister.


The old Auror, however, had another reason to pay attention. Indeed, he had planned to concentrate on his tasks at the Ministry of Public Security, and needed a replacement as Head of the Aurors’ Department. Obviously, Harry Potter’s name had come on top of his short list of potential candidates. So, Moody had carefully prepared his offer before presenting it to Harry yesterday. Their conversation had been short but truthful: Moody had earnestly renewed his confidence towards Harry. But he also pointed out that being an Auror was far from a simple job. It was, in Moody’s opinion, a calling, a lifetime commitment that, unfortunately, left little place to a decent family life. Harry had listened with attention before asking for more time to take his decision. Although his hesitation was understandable, Moody had clearly seen doubts in the young wizard’s eyes. That was definitely not a good sign, he had told himself then, and the same disturbing feeling just kept welling up at this very moment.


“A Knut for your thoughts, old friend,� Dumbledore just joined him at his table.

“Ah, Albus, I am very worried about my replacement at the Aurors’ Department.� Moody muttered, grazing his nose where a chunk was missing. “Look at them! Potter never left a teammate behind. And I bet my wooden leg he will not give up on this young lady either!�

“They have shared a lot; and facing Tom Riddle many times together had created strong bonds between them.� the Headmaster said with an indulgent smile.

“Love! So silly, but so powerful!� Moody sighed heavily. “Why do people have to fall in love? It does nothing but cloud your mind and keep you from thinking straight!�

“Yes, but love also does wonderful things, Alastor,� replied Dumbledore, “as far as our young friend is concerned, love had saved his life more than once.�

“I know, I know. But the boy is a natural, Albus, and it pains me to let him go! Besides, if only those damn reporters could leave him alone, instead of pinning his face on the front page every time he raised a wand.�

“I guess the Death Eaters consider it is a personal challenge and a great deal of publicity to be arrested by ‘the great Harry Potter’ then.�

“A vicious circle!� Moody confirmed gloomily. “Death Eaters, raids, front page, more Death Eaters, more arrests, more headlines. It will never end, Albus. And I guess the boy is tired with all the fussy publicity that surrounded him.� Moody waved his wand and his cup was filled again with hot strong tea.


On the dance floor, Ginny just leaned toward Harry, whispering something in his ear. But before he could reply, all the guests were cheering loudly as the bride and groom were exchanging a kiss. The first song had ended, now replaced by a more joyful tune. Ron immediately turned to his sister and carried her along the rhythm. Hermione followed his example by pulling Harry’s hand. Laughter filled the dance floor, as more dancers joined in.


“Alastor, do you think that Harry is tired of fighting the dark arts?� Dumbledore asked again, his eyes shining above his spectacles.

“I don’t think so. The boy was born to fight the dark arts!� Moody replied, his eyes rolling, staring at his old friend. “Albus, I know that look! What do you have in mind?�

“Well, as you had rightly pointed out, Harry is a natural. I happen to think he could carry on the fight in a different way.�


Moody shifted his gaze from Dumbledore to Severus Snape, who was glaring at the dance floor through his greasy hair.


“You mean…� the old Auror exclaimed, as hit by a new reckoning.

“Do I have your permission to talk to Harry, then?� Dumbledore asked again, and Moody looked torn in a fierce inner battle.

“I … Fine, you can give it a try!� Moody finally growled. “But you can understand I do not wish you luck for your task.�

“Thank you, Alastor, you have been too kind already.�


***


“Thanks, Harry, for everything.� Hermione kissed her best friend on the cheek.


Harry hugged her briefly, then stepped aside as Bill Weasley asked the bride for the next dance. Glancing at Ginny’s direction, Harry saw her with her brother Charlie, who was swaying so smoothly it was hard to believe he actually worked with dragons. Harry then zigzagged his way out of the dance floor, heading to the Weasleys’ table where the twins were waving at him. Lee Jordan was sitting with them, and greeted Harry with an enthusiastic handshake. Fred quickly looked around before shoving a colorful square box into Harry’s hands.


“Your special order of Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor Beans!� Fred winked at him. “Custom made, freshly owled, and did not cost you a Knut. The owner of Honeydukes said it’s a gift for the new recipient of the ‘Order of the Phoenix’.�

“Thanks, I’ll go put it on his desk right now!� Harry said, shaking the box with delight. “Hey, don’t you join the fun?� he asked, pointing at the dance floor.

“Later!� George answered, “we want to spend some time with our new Manager first.�


There was so much noise that Harry first thought he misheard. A new manager? What about Ginny? He wanted to ask but the twins had already resumed their conversation with Lee. Harry looked in Ginny’s direction again. She was still dancing with her brother, her face flushed with laughter. I will ask her later, Harry promised himself. Besides, he must tell her about Moody’s job offer and the decision he would take.


The corridor leading to Dumbledore’s office was silent and empty, just like Harry’s mind at this moment. Strange, he thought, the eagerness he should have felt about his possible promotion had never come. In fact, his heart was heavy with one certainty: once again, he was about to take a decision that will aim the spotlight at him, and hurt everyone he loved in the same process.


The stone gargoyle guarding Dumbledore’s office was frowning malevolently at Harry, showing no sign of mellowing throughout the years.


“Let’s see,� Harry searched his mind for a password, “Chocolate Frogs … Fizzing Whizzbees … Sugar Quill …�

“Canary Cream,� Dumbledore’s voice rose from behind his back.


The walls slowly split apart, revealing the hidden staircase to the Headmaster’s office. Canary Cream! Fred and George would be staggered with pride if they heard about this, Harry whirled around. Professor Dumbledore was standing behind him, looking very pleased with his password.


“Nice to see you, Harry,� he said, “I reckon you still have some trouble with my loyal gargoyle?�

“Your gargoyle is not very keen to help, sir.� Harry admitted, following Dumbledore up the staircase.


The study was still the same as Harry remembered. Some movement stirred in the former Headmasters’ pictures, some of them nodded at him from their frame. Somehow, those large walls stuffed with books had always provided Harry with a warm feeling of peace. A flash of red feathers zoomed on him, and Harry felt he just came home after a long trip.


“How are you, Fawkes?� he said softly, and the phoenix nibbled his finger in welcome.
“No, Fawkes, this is for Professor Dumbledore!� Harry moved the box away from the eager beak that started pulling on the fancy bow.

“Professor, I can’t think of any book, and I reckon summer is not the right moment of the year to offer wool socks.� Harry smiled, handling Dumbledore the box of colorful beans. “So, I brought you this, sir, hoping that you will find … the flavor you enjoy most.�

“Thank you, Harry,� a genuine smile lit Dumbledore’s features when he looked at his gift. “Ah, I would swap anytime a book for a box of Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavor Beans!�

“It is extraordinary, sir,� Harry was truly amazed by the Headmaster’s joy, “how you can be such a powerful wizard, and still keep your heart as young as a child’s.�

“That, Harry, is the best kept secret of the universe. The greatest magic of all is to be able to see the world through the eyes of a child, and to be amazed by the simplest things. Remember that, whether you decide to be an ordinary man, or … Head of the Aurors’ Department.�


Harry smiled sadly. He knew Dumbledore and Moody were best friends and shared much information. But how could he, Harry, tell his old teacher about his doubts without showing any sign of weakness? Besides, Dumbledore knew him better than himself. And Harry desperately needed some wise advices to sort out his priorities at this point.


“I can’t thank Mr. Moody enough.� Harry said prudently. “This is an incredible opportunity for my career, and a great mark of confidence from my commander.�

“It is. But why this sadness, Harry?�

“Sir, I wonder if there is a prophecy saying that whatever I do, I will hurt someone I care about? If I refuse this promotion, I will disappoint a commander I truly respect. And if I accept it, my life will be constantly under the public’s scope. And I reckon I have no right to expose Gi… I mean people I deeply cared about to this madness.�

“I see. And have you asked those ‘people you deeply cared about’ what they think?�


Harry shook his head. Now he truly understood what Ron and Hermione had gone through. Ron had been clever enough to listen to his own heart, and had lived his choices in the most remarkable way possible.

“I guess you haven’t,� Dumbledore continued, “and you were very brave to take the pressure all upon yourself. But those persons are much wiser than you give them credit for, Harry. If they cared about you as you do about them, I believe they will choose to support your decision.�

“It is my duty to protect them,� Harry answered hotly, “even if I have to keep them away from me. Besides, she had already done a lot for me.� He continued, lowering his gaze to the pile of books besides Dumbledore’s desk. “If she is hurt again, it will be entirely my fault. I just cannot let that happen. I can not force her to choose a crazy life because of her love for me!�


Harry had barely realized he had shifted from “them� to “her�, but Dumbledore had not missed a word.


“There is no way out,� Harry concluded gloomily. “All I can do is to move forward no matter what!�

“Do you remember, Harry, what I have told you once, when you were twelve? I said that it is our choices that really show who we are, far more than our abilities. You were disturbed then by the thought you may belong in Slytherin rather than Gryffindor; just like the way you are sad now, because you can’t see clearly the path you are following.�

“There is no doubt in my mind that fighting the Dark Arts is the right thing to do.� Harry felt a sudden rush of energy.

“So, the issue is not the purpose of your work, but the conditions in which you are performing it, am I right?�


Harry slowly nodded.


“Harry, instead of being the top Auror whose action daily made the front page, have you ever considered carrying on the fight against dark arts by teaching young wizards in a recluse school like Hogwarts?�

“Taking on Snape’s dream job as … as …�

“As Defense against the Dark Arts teacher, yes!� Dumbledore nodded patiently. “Professor Snape had decided he preferred teaching Potions. Apparently, he took it hard when the first years developed a passion for werewolves rather than fearing them.�


Harry could not hold a smirk picturing Snape’s disgruntled face. First years should be taught simple techniques to block unfriendly spells. Perhaps, they would love to learn the Reductor Curse; kids always loved blowing things when they… Wait a minute, I am NOT planning lessons, am I? Harry gave himself a mental kick, cautiously avoiding Dumbledore’s eyes.


“Teaching youth is a rare skill and privilege that is not granted to everyone,� the Headmaster continued. “Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a life time. You can spend the rest of your own life defending people against the Death Eaters, Harry. But if you can teach the young ones how to defend themselves, you just give them the power they need to stand strong and proud for their life time.�


Harry’s ears were buzzing and he was sure Dumbledore could hear his frantic heartbeat from across his desk. Like a dream, he saw himself walking through a group of young wizards sitting in pairs, practicing various spells, their wands pointing in all directions. Harry remembered vividly the joy he had felt when members of the D.A. had mastered the Blocking Spell, or produced a decent Patronus. Indeed, it was the best time of his gloomy fifth year. He was happy then, when … NO, Harry rectified silently, he was happy then BECAUSE he had helped his friends improve their magic skills to defend themselves against Voldemort’s increasing menace.


“Sir, with all due respect, I don’t think I have a choice.� Harry finally said, voicing his last doubts. “My father died facing Voldemort. My mother sacrificed her life to preserve mine. My godfather and the teacher I cared about the most both fought to their last breath. I must carry on their fight, sir, and to live up to their expectations.�

“Harry, such thoughts are honorable. However, I must correct you on one point: indeed, your parents and their friends did sacrifice their lives. But their ultimate purpose was to give you the chance to live, and to make choices on your own without the Dark Order shadowing your future. They made you ‘the-Boy-who-Lived’. So, live your life fully, happily. And allow yourself to take decisions that will make it even more meaningful.�


Harry left the desk to stare out the window, his heart heavy with contradictory thoughts. Down by the lake, he spotted Ginny standing under a giant oak. The lake was shimmering under the summer sun, and a light breeze rustled through the leaves, letting rays of light dance on her hair. She was smiling, probably talking to a friend, and Harry just felt his heart squeeze with tenderness.


“Beautiful, isn’t it?� Dumbledore’s voice whispered as the Headmaster came at his side.


Harry just nodded, before realizing that the old wizard talked about the warm afternoon and the shining lake. Of course, the sight of Hogwarts grounds was beautiful. And Ginny was beautiful. Harry loved the way her eyes smile whenever they met his. And beautiful she was, just by holding his hand, talking softly to him, filling this empty space he sometimes felt deep inside.


“I must give it to Professor Flitwick,� Dumbledore added almost casually, “he always had a talent in choosing his successor, and he just proved it again. This is the second time he trusts a former Head Girl to teach Charms.�

“Sir, you mean …� Harry asked, feeling his blood rush through his veins.

“Miss Weasley had been offered the Charm teacher position at Hogwarts, Harry.� Dumbledore’s eyes never left Harry’s puzzled face. “She had finally agreed to take on this new challenge after much heart-searching, I believe. For my part, I am delighted Hogwarts will count on a valuable teacher after Professor Flitwick’s much deserved retirement.�

“And the first ‘former Head Girl’ Professor Flitwick had chosen was …� Harry asked, but his heart was beating fast, for he had somehow anticipated the upcoming answer.

“Your mother, Harry.� Dumbledore answered. “Lily Potter had been a very gifted teacher. Because of Voldemort, she had to give up teaching and go into hiding with your father and her newborn son. For her security, no record of her teaching days at Hogwarts had been kept. And judging by the way you handled the ‘Dumbledore’s Army’, Harry, I’d say you inherited more from your mother than just the eyes.�


Harry was staring out the window again, but he was blind to all the activities outside. All those years, he had only pictured his parents as fearless Aurors, as proud members of the former Order of the Phoenix. Giving it some thoughts, the Prophecy about him and Voldemort had somehow biased his thinking. There were other solutions than “kill, or be killed�. There were ways to make the world a little better. And there was love whenever one acknowledged it.


The Mirror of Erised was nowhere in sight. However, Harry could swear he saw his parents smiling, waving at him. He realized that his mother’s eyes, his eyes, were blurred with tears. His father nodded proudly at him, and when James put an encouraging hand on his shoulder, the weight that Harry had been holding in his heart for a long while was instantly lifted. Yes, Harry could make his own choice. He would not regret the raids, or the arrests. Meanwhile, he will carry on his fight against the dark arts by doing what he had immensely enjoyed in the past: teaching young wizards to trust their good heart, and to improve their skills.


Harry brought his hand to his shoulder and encountered not James’s but Dumbledore’s hand. He slowly turned to face the Headmaster.


“I will do it, sir,� he answered resolutely, “I will teach Defense against the Dark Arts as long as the ‘DADA jinx’ does not get the upper hand over me.�

“Ah, that,� Dumbledore smiled mischievously, “I know a talented Charms teacher who will gladly help you with the counter-jinx. I am proud of you, Harry and I can’t feel any happier about your choice.� Then, he added more seriously, “welcome back to Hogwarts, Professor Potter!�


They shook hands then the Headmaster wrapped his arms around Harry in a warm embrace. The orphan baby he had left on his aunt’s doorstep had grown into an admirable man, and overcome many challenges along the way. Harry had loved, and was loved unconditionally in return. And Dumbledore considered this as one of his greatest achievements.


“Thank you, Headmaster. Now I must answer to Mad-Eye’s offer…� Harry said.

“Well, here I am. What is your answer to my offer?�


Harry turned around to see Mad-Eye standing at the door. How much had Moody heard about their conversation? Harry glanced at Dumbledore for help, but he Headmaster had returned to sit at his desk, and was now playing distractedly with his new box of sweets.


“Mr. Moody, sir, I…� Harry started, feeling awkward in the presence of both his old and new bosses.

“I have heard enough, Potter!� Moody immediately groaned, waving his hand. “I know it’s only a question of time before you return to your old school.�

“I want your resignation letter on my desk on Monday!� Moody continued harshly, although his scared face showed no sign of anger. “I will accept it with a few conditions. ONE, you will not forget what a gifted Auror you have been. TWO, you promise to do your best to teach the next generations of wizards to fight the dark arts. THREE, you will tell Miss Weasley that you will no longer hide yourself behind this ‘brother-sister’ non-sense. Life is too short, Potter, to keep people who loved you at arm’s length.�

“Yes, sir,� Harry answered, astonished by the old Auror’s words, “may I just say…that it had been an honor to serve under your command, sir?�


Moody nodded, uneasy at the compliment.


“Now, go fulfill condition number three!� Moody pushed Harry toward the door, “remember, in this kind of situation, strike first and ask questions later!�


Moody closed the door behind Harry then turned to Dumbledore. His magic eye was actually rolling as the two old wizards stared at each other.


“Alastor, you are the most thoughtful, generous Minister I’d ever known!� Dumbledore said finally.

“There are times you pushed the limits of our friendship too far, Albus,� replied Moody, whose scared face was twisting in what looked like a smirk, or a frown. “You just lost me one of the most gifted Aurors I’d ever had under my command.�

“And the other gifted ones you mentioned were Potter’s father and my own great-great-grandson!� a cool voice rudely cut in.


Both Dumbledore and Moody turned to the picture of Phineas Nigellus and saw him standing with his nose high and his shoulder squared in defiance. The old Headmaster of Hogwarts could not help adding his words in the conversation.


“All those years, Dumbledore had sent you many valuable Aurors. Don’t you think it is high time to pay him back with a worthy teacher?�

“Thank you for your kind words, Phineas!� Dumbledore’s eyes twinkled above his spectacles.

“You are more than welcome, Albus,� Phineas insisted, now leaning on the frame of this picture. “About this young Miss Weasley… I understand she comes from a pure-blood family?�

“Pure-blood of not, I’d say this Weasley girl is Potter’s missing half.� Moody observed. “And that is what really matters!�

“Here, here, old friend!� Dumbledore nodded approvingly, “and now, I deserve a treat!�


The Headmaster chose a purple bean in his box then warily put it in his mouth.


“Toffee!� he exclaimed joyfully, before closing his eyes, chewing the bean with an ecstatic grin on his lips.

*********


A/N: Thanks for reading, and, please, don’t forget to let me know what you think, OK? :) :)

On Mugglenet FF, you can find many great stories, written by incredibly talented authors. In this chapter, there was a ‘wink’ to two of those stories:

1) The ‘werewolves’ referred to “The Truth about Remus�, by ma_raie (cat: Romance/Other pairings), a wonderful romance “Marauder style� where adventure and friendship are always present.

2) The ‘brother-sister’ thing referred to “Harry Potter and the Blood Traitor�, by Huskers (cat: Romance/Various pairings), a captivating story filled with magic, voices and mysteries.

Please, check them out!

Dear readers, THANKS for sharing my fantasies about H/G and R/H in this story. Your reviews mean a lot to me, you know that! :D :D.

And Thank You again, ma_raie, for your help and support in this chapter, in spite of your “Marauder’s crazy schedule� ;-).



*********



… Strike first and ask questions later …


Harry kept thinking about Moody’s advice, trotting through the long corridors of Hogwarts. He had to find Ginny, to tell her about his plans for the future, and chase off those clouds of sadness he had seen in her eyes.


Above his head, Peeves was whirling around the pillars, cackling a silly song about “a pumpkin loosing its broomstick�. Oblivious to the Poltergeist’s mad giggles, Harry ran out the main entrance. Although the music was still playing, Hogwarts’ gardens seemed slightly deserted at that time of the afternoon. A glance at the Quidditch pitch immediately informed Harry where the guests had gone. From afar, he could see players circling the air on their broomsticks, dodging Bludgers and passing the Quaffle with eagerness.


Ginny, however, had not joined the others in the pitch. Harry found her sitting under the giant oak, her head pillowed on the arms she had crossed over her knees. She cast him a miserable look when he sat beside her on the grass.


“Fred and George stole my broomstick!� Ginny informed him angrily. “I am sure they cast the Vanishing spell on it, and made sure no one could lend me one. So here I am, pinned to the ground.�

“The twins sometimes go too far with their jokes,� Harry admitted, “but they have never kept you out of a Quidditch game. Do you think they are holding … a grudge against you for something?� he asked, seizing the opportunity to bring on the subject he wanted to discuss.


Ginny glanced warily at him, and took a deep breath. The time of explanations had come, whether she wanted or not. She carefully avoided his gaze, and answered his question before loosing her last ounce of resolution.


“You guessed right, I’ve done something they did not like: I have resigned from Weasleys Wizards Wheezes. I have agreed to take the Charms teacher position at Hogwarts.�

“That’s great news, Gin!� Harry smiled broadly, acting surprised. “You are great with children, and your magic skills never ceased to impress me.�

“Thanks for the compliment,� Ginny replied with sadness. “I will start this September as Professor Flitwick’s assistant, so he can coach me on teaching techniques. I will stay at Hogwarts, and may have to spend some weekends here to prepare lessons.�

“What are you trying to tell me exactly?� Harry glanced at her.

“I try to tell you that we may not see each other for a while,� she said again in a huge effort to steady her voice. “I mean that while we are apart, you will have the time to focus on your career without me distracting you.�


Ginny shifted uneasily, clenching her fists to keep her hands from trembling. This conversation is pure torture, she told herself, hating to say what she had yet carefully prepared for days.


“Harry, I have been chasing you with my school girl crush for years,� she added in one breath. “Don’t you think you deserve some time off to … sort out your own priorities?�

“A school girl crush, you said?� Harry’s hands closed on her shoulders and gently turned her towards him. “Remember that night we faced Tom Riddle? You stood by me when we cast the Reversio Charm. It took something much stronger than a school girl crush to counter the hatred of the Avada Kedavra Curse. A spell never lies, Ginny. And neither can you!�

“You are right, I can’t lie!� Ginny’s tears shone in her feverish eyes. “I do love you, Harry, more than you know, and too much for my own good.�

“Then why did you try to get away?�


Ginny turned away, her tears clearly showed in her quivering voice.


“I tried to give you space to fulfill your dream. I can’t be the burden that holds you back from becoming the hero you ought to be. And I certainly don’t want to be a choice that you can’t make.�

“If I had ever dreamt to be a hero, I would have agreed to Moody’s offer to become Head of the Aurors’s Department.� Harry insisted on each word. “And if you think that I will let you stay alone at Hogwarts, and let the new Defense against the Dark Arts teacher have a try in charming you, you can think again, Weasley!�

“Honestly, Harry, are you out of your mind?� Ginny’s temper immediately raised a few notches as Harry’s scoop sank in. “If you think that Snape will …�

“Snape wants to go back to Potions. There will be a new teacher, and I bet you know him!�

“You are … terrible! Worst than my brothers, and that says something!�


Harry watched Ginny’s anger build up, and decided the game had gone on long enough. After all, she had told him what he wanted to hear: that her feelings for him had not changed. She had clearly tried to “give up on him� again, but this time, after all they had shared since their school years, it was much harder for her to deny the strong feelings they had for each other.


“I will be the next Defense against Dark Arts teacher, Ginny,� Harry said more seriously, looking deep into her eyes. “My resignation will be on Moody’s desk as soon as I get back to the Ministry. No more raids, or arrests, or front page for me. I am committed to fight the darks arts, but being an Auror is not the only way. I will teach young wizards to improve their skills against dark forces. And I count on the future Charms teacher to be my partner and help me on that task!�


Ginny was speechless. She was obviously dreaming, because every thing Harry just said was too good to be true. Nevertheless, she was touched by the sincere tone of his voice, and the way he was looking at her … She could swear there was nothing but true love in his eyes.


“My dream is to live for what I believe in.� Harry added. “I believe in the future, Gin, a future that would mean nothing if you are not with me.�

“Are you sure this is what you want, Harry?�

“Absolutely! And, please, help me out, will you? I am trying to propose here!�


That finally caught Ginny off guard. She turned to Harry, unable to utter a single word. Please, Ginny, say something … Harry pleaded silently as a sudden moment of panic cross his mind. Butterflies started fluttering in his stomach, and his mind raced helplessly. Perhaps …That must be it … He had not properly asked the question.


“No one completes me the way you do, Ginny,� he whispered. “And we have proved many times that together, we are an unbeatable team! So, will you take a chance and marry me?�


You bet I will take that chance, Potter! Ginny inhaled deeply as joy swept through her, liberating her from her last doubts. Without a word, she rose to her feet, followed by Harry, who closely watched every expression of her face. Slowly, her hands closed on his cheeks, then her fingers lovingly combed through his untidy hair.


“Checking where I keep my brain?� Harry asked playfully, although his heart was beating its way out of his chest.

“Don’t have to! I’d trust you with my life,� Ginny flashed him her sweetest smile.

“So … is that a Yes?�

“It definitely is!�


Harry swept Ginny in his arms, feeling dizzy as an indescribable joy took over him. He did not remember being that happy in his entire life; whether it was the first time he set foot on Platform 93/4, or when he mastered the Reversio Charm, or … No, Harry finally decided, the present moment was unique. Just like the woman he was holding close against him.


“Harry, Rita Skeeter is looking our direction.� Ginny warned him.

“Is she? Then let’s give her something to talk about!�


Harry made true to his word as he gave Ginny a long, passionate kiss that left her breathless. Vaguely, he heard Rita Skeeter’s shriek of triumph when her photograph captured the moment in his camera. Much to his own surprise, Harry no longer cared about what she might write about him.


“You will have a lot to clarify to the press, Mr. Potter.� Ginny told him when she found her voice again.

“I don’t care. You are with me now, and I can face anything, including a bunch of nosy reporters. So, Miss Weasley, should we set a date for your walk down the aisle?�

“A date? How about today?�

“Today? You can’t be serious! I don’t even have a ring…�

“Harry, I want a marriage, not a wedding, and the ring can definitely wait. Besides, I had always dreamt of a ceremony at Hogwarts, with my family and friends, who happen to be all present today. Unless you are not up to the challenge, of course.� Ginny added in a defiant tone.

“Okay, you’re on! Let’s go talk to your parents and see if Dumbledore can help us with this. Merlin, they will all think we are crazy!�

“I am crazy about you, Harry!� Ginny concluded sweetly, with a soft kiss on his lips before they went off spotting red heads in the crowd.


*********


Harry and Ginny’s new careers and the announcement of their surprise wedding were greeted with great enthusiasm by the Weasleys. Actually, Ginny had valiantly confirmed several times there was no particular reason to their urge to get official, so that Molly could finally stop glancing suspiciously at her daughter’s waistline. Contrary to their secret worries, Hermione and Ron were overjoyed to share their wedding day with their best friends, and had instantly accepted to serve as Best Man and Maid of Honor.


The only person who toned their project down a bit was Percy Weasley, for whom rules and laws had no secret.


“In accordance with article 27, paragraph 8 of the Matrimonial Laws,� Percy stated, “to bypass the required procedures and delay of the publication of the banns, your wedding must be vouched for by seven Official Upholders who must personally know, either the bride or the groom, for at least seven years.�

“What is an Official … thing?� Harry asked.

“Well, in accordance with article 18, paragraph 6 of Civil Laws,� Percy explained importantly, “an Official Upholder is a person whose profession contributes significantly to maintain and/or improve their fellow witches and wizards’ welfare. The list started naturally with Ministry Officials.�

“I would be pleased, Ginny, to vouch for you and your fiancé in my capacity as Secretary of the Internal Affairs’ Department,� Percy ceremoniously brought his hand to his chest.

“We will sign too!� Fred volunteered, as soon as Arthur and Ron had given their support to the wedding.

“We are professional spirit lifters!� George pointed out.

“Sorry, I clearly remember that the list does not include clowns!� Percy snapped back at them.

“But the list does include Healers and Teachers,� Hermione intervened, “and I heartedly support my best friends’ wedding.�

“So do I!� Hagrid stepped in. “Harry, Ginny, it’s obvious that yeh two belong tergether!�

“And count me in, too!� Mad-Eye Moody growled, limping in. “For the record, I will sign as an Auror … Suits me more than any Ministry’s title.�


Harry silently counted and came up with six vouchers. Just as he started thinking about other potential Official Upholders, a squeaky voice was heard among them.


“Dobby will sign for Harry Potter and his Wheezy, as a free elf.�


For a moment, every one was struck dumb by Dobby’s proposal. Then, a broad smile lit up Hermione’s features. She knelt down to shake the elf’s skinny hand.


“Dobby, you are absolutely brilliant!� she gasped with pride. “I am truly honored to befriend a free and precious contributor to wizards’ welfare.�

“Then it’s settled!� Arthur Weasley said brightly. “Now, who will be your master of ceremony?�


Harry headed toward Dumbledore who was in conversation with Severus Snape. The Headmaster smiled to him from afar as if he already knew what was coming, and Harry’s special request was immediately granted without reservation.


The news of Ginny and Harry’s wedding spread rapidly, and friends began gathering around them, surprised but delighted to witness a second wedding in the same day. Dumbledore watched them fondly before turning to Snape.


“I wonder, Severus, if you could help me performing the ceremony, by reading what you had beautifully written years ago…�

“Headmaster, you don’t mean …� Snape was astonished by the Headmaster’s strange request. “It was years ago … and I think it is not the moment, nor the place to read such silly things.�

“Please, Severus, I assure you today is the perfect occasion to read your poem, which is too beautiful to lie forgotten in a drawer.�


Thus the wedding songs started playing once more, and this time, the main characters had simply changed place at the altar. Ron now stood proudly behind Harry, his famous Weasley’s smile pinned on his face. They watched Hermione walk towards them, looking beautiful in a new dress robe. In spite of Hermione’s insistence, Ginny had decided to keep her blue gown to walk down the aisle. The new bride had simply added a few white roses in her hair, but Harry had the clear impression that her beauty just made every thing around her turn pale. And when Mr. Weasley finally placed Ginny’s hand in his, his heart was beating so fast that he could hardly breathe. He was barely aware that Dumbledore had already started his speech.


“Dear Ginny and Harry, allow me to speak from the heart. With a bright eye, Hogwarts watched his former students grow and meet their challenges in the most remarkable way. And today, it is with a glad heart that we witness your pledge of love to each other.

“For this special occasion, I would like to invite Professor Severus Snape to offer, on behalf of Hogwarts teachers and staff, our fondest wishes to both of you. Professor Snape, would you do us the honor of sharing your wonderful poem with us?�


Harry startled at the Headmaster’s demand. Merlin, all that Snape had said so far on behalf of Hogwarts teachers had been to take points from Gryffindor.


Meanwhile, Snape did not seem pleased by the idea either. Indeed, years ago, in another lifetime, a young woman had inspired him some strange feelings about love and marriage. He had secretly put them into words in a rare moment of foolishness; a short poem that he had intended to rip into pieces the day he watched her walk up the aisle beside another man. But somehow, he had kept it as a proof of how silly love could be. The only living soul to know about this poem was Dumbledore, who had just asked him to bare his soul in front of the entire school.


Nonetheless, Severus Snape was not a coward, and he will certainly prove it again today. Without a smile, the Potions master took out his wand, feeling a mean satisfaction as he saw the Weasley brothers discreetly reach for their own wands.


“Accio ‘Formula of love’,� Snape muttered, and an old, yellowish roll of parchment was summoned from nowhere into his outstretched hand.


Snape slowly made his way to the front, and began reading from the parchment. His voice was deep and impressive, just like any of his students could remember, although his face was still inscrutable.


“The ‘formula of love’ must always include:

Some herbs and spice for fortitude;
A tablespoon of forgiveness;
A clove of loyalty;
A cup of faith;
And a sprig of honesty;
A pinch of patience;
A teaspoon of trust;
And a cup of friendship.
Mix all these herbs and spices well,
No other recipe could ever excel;
Add a Weasley and a Potter for proper effect,
Then brew the whole in two cups of respect.�


A few women gasped in awe, touched by the sweet words of the poem. As for Snape, he just rolled back his parchment, and walked stiffly back to his seat.


“Thank you, Professor,� Harry and Ginny both told him as he passed by.


But Snape did not care about the young couple’s gratitude. Nobody saw him clench his teeth behind his curtain of greasy black hair, for watching Harry Potter stand beside his red-haired bride did nothing to lighten his mood.


“Thank you, Professor Snape, your poem was indeed inspiring,� Dumbledore simply said before speaking to the bride and groom again.

“Ginny, Harry, the commitment you are about to take is a serious matter. Do you promise to be true to each other in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, in joy and in sorrow? Do you promise to love and to honor each other from this day forward, as long as you both shall live?�

“I do,� they both answered in unison.

“Your commitment shall be made in love, kept in faith, lived in hope and eternally made anew. From now on, you will spend your life as husband and wife. May your joys be as bright as the morning, your years of happiness as numerous as the stars in the heavens, and your troubles but shadows that fade in the sunlight of love.
Mr. Potter, you may kiss the bride.�


Friends immediately started to cheer on the new couple. Arthur Weasley clapped
along with the guests, watching through blurry eyes his little girl rise on her tiptoes to kiss her husband. Blimey, he thought, as his heart squeezed painfully, it seemed only yesterday that he took her to Diagon Alley shopping for her first school books. That same little girl was now walking up the aisle, glowing with happiness, while her brothers Fred and George were pointing their wands, making waves of tiny flowers rain on the new bride and groom.


Like a sleepwalker, Arthur followed his wife and the other guests to the group of friends surrounding the new couple. Just as they approached, a flash of blue emerged from the cheering crowd, and Arthur saw his daughter coming toward them.


“I love you, Dad,� Ginny whispered to him, hugging him tightly, like she used to do every day he came home from work.

“You will always be my little treasure, Ginny,� Arthur replied. “It is your turn now to keep the magic going!�


Ginny hugged her mother before walking back to the boy he and Molly had come to love as a son. Arthur gulped down the knot of emotion in his throat when he saw his daughter squeeze Harry’s hand, the same way Molly’s hand was tightening over his at the same moment. That is the way life goes, he told himself with philosophy.


“Molly dear,� he confided to his wife, “I will no longer try to adopt Harry. We have now a child named Potter in the family.�


Soon, it was time for Ron and Hermione to leave for their honeymoon trip. They had chosen to disapparate into Greece, for Hermione had never been keen to fly long distance on a broomstick. They thanked the guests, said goodbye to families and friends, and tried to stretch some extra time with Ginny and Harry.


“Have a good trip, mate,� Harry said to Ron. “I still owe you a wedding present when you return.�

“Honestly, Harry,� Ron replied with a wolfish smile, sounding much like his newly wed wife. “You’ve given me the best gift ever: you just relieve me of an annoying baby sister. Believe me, I have waited twenty-four long years for that!�

“You will be okay, Ginny?� Hermione hugged her sister-in-law.

“I will be,� Ginny promised. “Enjoy your honeymoon, big sister.�


They reluctantly separated, and Harry wrapped a loving arm around Ginny’s shoulder. Hermione joined Ron as they waved once more at their friends.


“Hermione,� Ginny suddenly shouted over the cheers, “when you get there, don’t let Ron open any of your trunks!�

“What? Can’t hear you! What’s wrong with the trunks?� Hermione asked.


But Ginny was nowhere in sight. Fred and George just shoved themselves in front of their sister, waving Ron and Hermione off with a devilish broad smile on their faces.


*********


The night is slowly closing in, settling its velvet robe over Hogwarts grounds. Guests of the wedding had returned to their dormitories, exhausted after the long day of festivity, but enchanted by the emotions they had witnessed at the two weddings.


Alone for the first time since days, Harry and Ginny were lying side by side on the floor of the Astronomy tower, looking up the summer sky. They gazed fondly at the Dog Star that shone the brightest among the breathtaking sea of twinkling stars. Harry squeezed Ginny’s hand a little tighter. They were both certain, at this very moment, that their happiness was shared beyond this silky sky. It was one of these moments that one wished to stop the clock to make it last forever.


“I can’t believe we are married,� Harry whispered. “I am still surprised you did not want to have a proper wedding, be the only star of the day … you know, the sort of things that brides usually love to do.�

“It was a beautiful day and I will treasure every minute of it,� Ginny replied, inching closer to lay her head on her husband’s shoulder. “What about you, Mr. Potter?�

“I feel the same! But I had the impression every thing went too fast. I mean, I wish I could do something … to make it a memorable day for both of us.�

“Hey, you are absolutely right!� Ginny said brightly, “why don’t we do it again, just the two of us?�

“What do you mean ‘again’?�

“I did not say the proper wedding vows. Let’s do it now, Harry! If you have only one thing to remember from our wedding day, I want you to remember this next moment.�


In a wink Ginny was on her feet again, straightening her ice-blue dress. She took Harry’s hands, guiding him near the large window where they could stand under the bright moonlight.


“There are so many things I want to tell my husband on my wedding day,� she said softly, loosing herself in his bright green eyes, “so I will tell you now, to you alone, and may the stars be my witnesses.�

“Harry, I used to think that I was strong, that I could face anything alone. But every time I look at you, I just realize how wrong I was. You, alone, have the power to make my mind go empty, and my heart go wild. You, alone, can inspire my greatest magic, and the silliest Valentine poem a love struck girl could imagine. Every time I look at you, I feel deep in my soul that you are the half that makes me whole. So I will close my eyes, and surrender my heart to you. My love for you is innocent, tender, and true. And I promise to keep it alive, from now on until the end.�


Ginny’s eyes were shining with happiness. Harry smiled as he wiped a tear from her cheek. No matter what the future may hold for them, he knew for a fact that he would be invincible, as long as he had Ginny by his side. And her unconditional love for him would be his strength and his ultimate treasure.


“Ginny, you are the only one,� Harry replied tenderly, “that I will love for all my life. I will be the place where you run, when the walls are tumbling down; be the rock you lean on, when you can’t find solid ground. I will be your love and your friend, and all that is in between. I want to hear your secrets and your wildest dreams. I don’t want to change the world, for as long as you are mine, it’s more than enough just to be the man you love.�


They sealed their pledge of love under the stars with a long kiss neither of them wanted to end. Ginny was right, the moment they just lived would be carved in his memory forever. Harry will always remember how beautiful Ginny looked with her face alight with love and her hair flaming in the silver moonlight. He will not forget that he could see his own happiness in her sweet smile, and his future in her amber eyes.


Every thing is just … perfect! Harry smiled to himself. He was at Hogwarts, with the woman he loved by his side, and Defense against the Dark Arts to tackle in a few months.


This was the true feeling of coming home.


*********


Author’s Note:

Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue…

In this chapter, I borrowed:

* The wonderful characters from J.K. Rowling, the real genius.

* The ‘Formula of Love� from Ara John Movsesian (the real title is “The recipe of Love� that I have changed a bit to suit Snape who, anyway, would never write something that romantic, don’t you agree?).

* Ginny and Harry’s vows from two beautiful songs: “Everytime I look at you� and “The man you love�.