AN: So… hey. Remember me? I don't remember why I stopped and I have to admit getting back into this was rough but a friend motivated me so three cheers to Mr. Composer Man for getting me motivated enough to return to my 16 year old self writing as a 20 year old as of today actually. Happy Birthday me.

Anyway. Without further ado

Chapter 34: Always

Ginny woke the morning of her wedding practically bursting with excitement. This was the day she had dreamed of since she was a little girl, and most surprisingly it was with the same groom she had always imagined. While not everything was what she imagined, it was going to be the best day of her life.

She sat up in her bed and breathed it all in. "Today's the day." Her mother's knock on the door a moment later.

"Rise and shine little girl. You're getting married today," her mother said, tears in her eyes. "My baby is getting married."

"I'm getting married."

"You are. Now it's time to get ready. The wedding is only a few hours away." She got out of bed and slipped into her robe, following her mother to the kitchen where she ate a hardy breakfast and drank a mimosa with her bridesmaids, Hermione, Luna and Fleur who she had become surprisingly closer with in the past few months.

"Okay, so its currently 11am. The wedding is at four. I've arranged for us to all get manicures and pedicures. As soon as those are finished, we need to get headed to the venue and get started with hair and makeup, the photographer is planning on joining us for that. After that we will need to get dressed and take a few pictures before the ceremony. Bill is going to drop Sophia off with us in that time so we can get her ready and into her flower girl dress." Hermione explained.

"Thank you for handling this Hermione, you have no idea what a stress reliever it is." Ginny said pulling the older girl into a hug.

"What are best friends for?" she squeezed tightly before jumping back. "Oh wait I forgot! Harry asked me to give this to you."

Hermione reached onto the counter and pulled out a shirt box. Ginny grabbed the box from her and ripped the paper off the box and revealed a white quidditch jersey, that said Bride on the back and the date of the wedding.

Ginny laughed and slipped off her robe and slipped the Jersey on.

"He's adorable." Ginny said pulling a note out of the pocket that informed her that he was wearing one that said Groom right now which made her smile. The other girls 'oohed' and 'awed' at the gesture.

"Come on ladies we have to get going." Hermione urged them into the floo to the salon and were well pampered by the manicurists and talked about how their lives were going.

Molly was becoming more and more adjusted to being a widow, but happily more so to being a grandmother to Sophia.

Hermione had moved into a cottage with Remus and was planning on sitting her NEWTs in the fall and hopefully taking a job with the ministry in the Magical Creatures division, fighting for the reclassification and obtaining of civil rights for Werewolves, House elves and for Goblins.

Luna was planning to finish her final year at Hogwarts before becoming a journalist and a naturalist for her father's paper which was still running strong, and was gaining popularity after the war.

Perhaps the most exciting was Fleur, who had confided in the women that she and Bill were trying to have a baby.

"Fleur, that is so exciting!" Ginny agreed.

"I'm gonna be a grandmother again!" Molly cheered, happy tears running down her cheeks. Fleur hugged her and was glad to see that the Weasley Matriarch was warming up to her even more.

Within an hour and a half, their nails were all neatly painted, Ginny wearing a set of tips. They then flooed back to Potter Manor into one of the many guest rooms, the photographer, her hair and make-up team from Ginny's tour following them in.

The photographer took photos as each of the women got their hair and make-up done, Ginny's make-up being done to highlight her natural beauty, very neutral colors that paled in comparison to the vast amounts of makeup she put on each night at the theatre. Her hair however, was much more intricate, tied back and curled into many little curls in a bun.

Her mother helped pin in the family heirloom goblin made-tiara, the photographer capturing the tear jerking moment, requiring a few make-up touches.

Ginny slipped into her form fitting gown, tight to just about the knees, flaring out like a trumpet, the bodice was ruched with a sash, making Ginny look even slimmer and giving her more of an hour glass figure. She clipped in a pair of earrings Sirius had given her from the Black family vaults and smiled as she put on the necklace Harry had given her that was currently glowing. He was thinking of her.

Hermione had finished getting ready the earliest and has maid of honor, was running in and out of the room, making sure the caterers, the florists, the decorators and of course the men were alright, and everything was on schedule. Molly was cooing over her granddaughter and had just taken her out of the room to change her diaper.

"Is it time?" Ginny asked as Hermione came in looking a tad breathless in her scarlet maid of honor gown.

"No, we still have a little bit of time. We have about 15 minutes before we need to head down to the annex. All the guests are arriving in the atrium and the twins are behaving leading them to their seats."

"Good. How's Harry?"

"He's happy. He's nervous but he's deliriously happy. You have nothing to worry about. I even made sure the ties were straight."

"Thank you."

"I wanted to make sure you had your traditional items. I can't believe I forgot about it till now."

"My what?"

"Something Old, Something New, Something borrowed, Something blue, Sixpence in the shoe?"

"Oh well… I guess my dress is new. The tiara is old and borrowed. I have nothing blue!"

"Fear not! Garter!" Hermione said reaching into her purse and pulling out a box and a coin. "And six pence in the shoe." Ginny lifted her foot and allowed the girl to put the piece of metal in her shoe.

"Why do people do this anyway?" Ginny asked.

" Something old represents continuity; something new offers optimism for the future; something borrowed symbolizes borrowed happiness; something blue stands for purity, love, and fidelity; and a sixpence in your shoe is a wish for good fortune and prosperity."

"Why am I not surprised that you know this?" Ginny said with a laugh. "Do we have the flowers?"

"The Florist has them laid out on a table outside the atrium for us, they're perfect. Sophia's basket is there as well so Bill is going to help her out with those."

"Perfect." Ginny sighed. She looked at the door.

"What's wrong?" Hermione said sinking down into a seat beside her, putting an arm around her.

"Nothing is wrong… I just…"

"You what?"

"I miss my dad." She said fighting back tears. "I've imagined this day my whole entire life, and it has always included him walking me down the aisle and he's not here to do that."

"Oh Ginny." Hermione wrapped her into a hug and rubbed her arms. "He'd be so proud of all you've done and become. You know that. He's definitely here with us in spirit. He'd be glad it's Harry."

"I know but… I just wish he was the one walking me down the aisle. I have no one."

"I know. I'll be right back." Hermione quickly rushed out of the room leaving Ginny slightly stunned.

Hermione soon returned with Sirius.

"Wow… look at you." He let out a whistle, making Ginny laugh a little. He pulled her up and hugged her. "You are the most beautiful bride I have ever seen."

"Siri,"

"And you need the hottest ex-convict ever to make you laugh and smile and maybe even get you down the aisle. Will you allow me the great honor of walking you down the aisle?"

"But don't you need to stand up with Harry and be his best man?"

"They can stand there and look pretty without me for a few minutes. Ron and Moony have got this. You however, I know I'm not your dad or Harry's dad or anyone's dad that I know of but, you're also one of my best friends and if I had a daughter, I would want her to be as caring, as brave, as smart and as wonderful as you are Gin."

"Siri, stop it I'm gonna cry."

"Well we can have none of that can we." He whipped out a handkerchief from his pocket and handed it to her.

"Thanks." She hugged him. "I'd be honored if you walked me down the aisle Sirius."

"You know give that back, I might cry now." She laughed and hugged him again.

"Ginny?" Her mother came in and looked at the pair. "It's time."

"Alright. Let's get you married." Sirius smiled at her and offered her an arm and the two walked down the stairs where the other bridesmaids were lined up, holding their bouquets. Her mother stood with Charlie who was escorting her to her seat in the front row.

Ginny's brother Bill held Sophia and hugged his little sister.

"You look wonderful Firefly."

"Thanks Billy goat." She smiled as the music started and Charlie and her mother started the walk toward the front of the room where Harry was already standing nervously with the officiant, Ron and Remus. Bill followed his mother and brother made his way down the aisle helping Sophia scatter white rose petals.

Fleur followed her husband and was quickly followed by Luna. Hermione brought up the rear, glowing as she walked down the aisle toward Remus and the rest.

All those in attendance stood as the music changed announcing the brides entrance. She looked to Sirius with a nod and the two entered the room.

All of the nerves and doubts Ginny had fled as soon as she saw the smile on Harry's face. He looked at her like she was the world.

Sirius handed her off to Harry and whispered to the pair.

"Make each other happy. That's all I can ask."

"We will." Harry said taking Ginny's hand, beaming at her."

"Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today to witness the union of Harry James Potter and Ginevra Molly Weasley. Should anyone see any reason these two should not be joined in marriage, please speak now or forever hold your peace."

Unlike Harry's first wedding, there was just silence. Harry squeezed Ginny's hand reassuringly. The officiant got back to the ceremony.

"The couple has decided to write their own vows, Harry?"

"Ginny, god have we seen it all." A few chuckles were heard from the crowd. "You have helped make me the man I am today, you have taught me how to love, how to be brave and how to get over my pride and ask for help. You have never given up on me. You have shown me in a world full of dark, that there is always light and that love can truly conquer all. You have taught me how to love life. You have saved me in all the ways a person can be saved and I can't wait to spend all of the rest of my days by your side, building our family and our futures together."

"Ginny?" the officiant gestured to the ginger who was fighting back tears.

"You stupid prat, making me cry on my wedding day." The audience laughed. "Harry, thank you for being my best friend and protector, the one constant in my life, a hand to hold, a shoulder to cry on, and someone to share my hopes and dreams with. You were definitely worth the wait and have taught me patience. You have saved me and today I vow to love you forever, I vow to help you love life, and to try and make you laugh every day. I vow to take care of you when you're sick, and stand by your side through whatever life has to offer us. My hand is yours to hold and my heart is yours to keep."

"Onto the rings." Sirius handed Harry a ring and Hermione handed one to Ginny.

"Repeat after me, Harry. On this day…I marry my best friend…The one who shares my life, my love and my dreams. Ginny, I give you this ring. As a symbol of my love and devotion I offer you my heart, my hand, and my love I join my life with yours. To cherish and to protect you as my wife, with all that I am…,with all that I have…I honor you as my wife forevermore."

"On this day…I marry my best friend…The one who shares my life, my love and my dreams. Ginny, I give you this ring. As a symbol of my love and devotion I offer you my heart, my hand, and my love I join my life with yours. To cherish and to protect you as my wife, with all that I am…,with all that I have…I honor you as my wife forevermore." He slid the ring on her finger and smiled at her.

"Now Ginny repeat after me, on this day…I marry my best friend…The one who shares my life, my love and my dreams. Harry, I give you this ring. As a symbol of my love and devotion I offer you my heart, my hand, and my love I join my life with yours. To cherish and to protect you as my husband, with all that I am…,with all that I have…I honor you as my husband forevermore."

"On this day…I marry my best friend…The one who shares my life, my love and my dreams. Harry, I give you this ring. As a symbol of my love and devotion I offer you my heart, my hand, and my love I join my life with yours. To cherish and to protect you as my husband, with all that I am…,with all that I have…I honor you as my husband forevermore." She slid a ring onto his finger and squeezed his hands.

"By the power vested in me by the Ministry of Magic, I pronounce you two husband and wife. You may kiss the bride."

The crowd cheered as Harry grabbed Ginny and pulled her into a kiss, and dipping her down to the ground, her arms wrapped around his neck.

When their lives finally parted and the pair of them walked back down the aisle, hands entwined and Sophia in their arms.

The party slowly migrated over to the ball room of Potter manor, draped in enough scarlet and gold to have made Godric Gryffindor proud. The room was lit by floating candles similar to the ones found in the great hall at Hogwarts.

Soon enough it was time for their first dance. The two had settled on Elvis Presley's "Can't Help Falling in Love with You." Harry while not the best dancer, managed through the song, staring into Ginny's eyes and smiling at her, his arms wrapped around her waist.

"I love you."

"I love you too." She whispered back. Her head rested against his chest.

"You are the best thing that has ever happened to me. I know I've made a lot of mistakes. And I know if given the chance I would go back and tell you how I feel sooner but god, all the war, the fighting and everything, I'd do it all over again and again if it meant that I still got you."

She kissed him gently, smiling. "Ditto." He let out a small laugh and kissed her quickly. As the song ended, and a faster beat came on, she got Harry to stay and dance with her as the rest of the crowd joined them. Sirius stole her away for a dance and each of her brothers cut in as well at certain points.

When it was time to toss the bouquet, it was no surprise that Hermione caught it and blushed furiously. Sirius elbowed Remus in the ribs and the former-professor merely smugly grinned.

As soon as Harry and Ginny wished goodnight to their guests, minus Molly who was going to take Sophia for the duration of their week long excursion to Italy, the grabbed their luggage and an international portkey.

NINETEEN YEARS LATER

"Come on Potters! We don't want to be late for the Hogwarts Express!" Ginny yelled up the stairs of Potter Manor.

"Mum! Do I really need to go?" A nineteen-year old Sophia Potter asked her mother.

"Don't you want to see James and Arthur off?"

"Can't I see them off from here? I have a healing exam next week."

"Sophia Lauren Potter. You won't be seeing your little brothers for the next three months. Could you please take the hour and see them off?"

"Fine, I'll go grab my shoes" she grumbled, her brown hair flying behind her as she rushed up the stairs

"James Sirius and Arthur Remus get your butts down here!" she called up again. Harry popped in through the front door and grabbed Ginny for a quick kiss.

"Where are the kids?"

"Soph is being moody because of a healing exam, the boys aren't answering and Lily is in the kitchen having some tea before we go."

"I swear you think we'd be used to the Hogwarts run by now between Sophia and James."

"You know Arthur. Just like his grandfather that boy, always tinkering around."

"I wouldn't be surprised if he's a Ravenclaw like Sophia was."

"He'd be good in any house but I think you're right love. I do wish he'd be in Gryffindor with James so he'd have someone though."

"You know now that Minerva is in charge, the houses aren't quite as segregated as they once were. You know James will take care of his little brother."

"I know but still. I'm a mother, I worry. Speaking of… where the heck are my sons?"

"JAMES SIRIUS AND ARTHUR REMUS GET YOUR BUTTS DOWN HERE BEFORE I DECIDE TO HOMESCHOOL THE PAIR OF YOU!" She yelled.

"You're right terrifying when you yell like your mother." Harry said looking a bit nervous.

"Oh shush you prat."

"Daddy, I can't find my jumper."

"Lily love did you check the closet where it's supposed to be?" He said pressing a kiss to the top of his youngest daughter's head.

"No. I suppose not." She quickly skipped off in search of her jumper. Sophia rushing down the stairs.

"Ready," she said with a huff, a pile of notecards in her hand.

"I swear she's Hermione's child and not ours, sometimes." Ginny whispered noticing the ink smudges on her eldest daughter's hands.

"If we have another Hermione in the world, the world is a much better place." Harry gave his daughter a squeeze and she rolled her eyes but smiled.

"Where are your sons Harry Potter?"

"Oh so now that they're in trouble, they're just my sons?" He asked with a laugh. "I'll finish packing the car, you go find Artie and James." Ginny ran up the stairs to find James standing outside of Arthur's room.

"What's wrong with your brother?"

"He's nervous that's all. But he won't come out. I told him it'll be fun."

"Thank you James. Go help your father load the car, I'll bring your brother out in a second." She unlocked the door and found her son curled up on his bed, dressed and ready to go.

"Arthur, love. What's wrong?"

"I…I don't want to go."

"Why's that?" she asked as she sat down beside her red-headed son.

"I… I'm gonna miss you and Lily and Dad and Sophia."

"Oh love, we're gonna miss you too. You know you can floo us every night if you need to talk to us and you can always owl us or use the two way mirror that Jamie has." She hugged her youngest son and pressed a kiss to his forehead.

"Were you scared to go to Hogwarts?"

"Honestly? No I wasn't. But I was stuck with your grandmother alone without your uncles for a very long time before I went. I had heard all these wonderful stories and was excited. I know you've heard a lot of stories from your brother and sister."

"Yeah," he said with a grin.

"And you'll have a bunch of your cousins there with you and your brother. You'll never be alone Artie." She hugged him again. "Just remember, don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it be with school work or friendship or just personal dilemmas, don't curl up into yourself and bottle up your emotions which I know you do. Just ask for help love."

"I love you Mum."

"I love you too sweetheart. Now we really need to go if you don't want to miss the train." She pulled her son up and down the stairs they flew and out the door to the car, loaded with their trunks and supplies.

Once every one was loaded in the car, they quickly drove to King's Cross Station and ran to Platform 9 ¾.

"I was worried about the Potter clan." A waiting Hermione said, hugging her nephews and nieces.

"We can't all be as punctual as the Granger Lupins" Ginny said. "Artie was nervous. I set him straight."

"So I'm guessing that Remus should rescind his bet that the boy would be in Gryffindor."

"Harry and I both think Ravenclaw."

"A noble house of course. All of them are." Remus said coming up behind his wife. "Hope is already on the train with Victoire and Dominique. The Twins are running late with each of their twins and Ron is still somehow happily a bachelor."

"He has the emotional range of a teaspoon." Hermione shrugged. "He'll find someone someday."

"Now James take good care of your brother. Arthur take good care of your brother as well. Make new friends, play quidditch, study hard and don't forget to have fun." Harry said hugging his two sons. "Remember I love you both."

"Love you too Dad." They replied in unison walking over to their mother.

"I love you boys with my whole heart. I expect a letter once a week if not more often. James knows the drill. If you forgot anything let me know. Send a letter once you're sorted and settled and don't forget to make good choices my boys. I am so proud of the young men you're growing into."

"Mum…" the boys groaned as she kissed each of their cheeks.

"You have five minutes before that train leaves now get on it after you tell your sister's goodbye."

The boys hugged their sisters and quickly grabbed their trunks running onto the train. Waving as it left the station.

"I can't believe it." Harry said.

"What?"

"Twenty years ago, I never would have imagined my life like this. Next to you and our wonderful kids."

"Twenty years ago I was practically invisible to you Potter."

"To my defense, I was under the effects of a love potion."

"Yeah yeah, excuses, excuses." She gave him a quick peck on the cheek. "I love you."

"Even after all the crap I put you through?"

"Always."

A/N: And that's the end my friends. If you have questions about anything please give me a buzz. I know it's been a while and I might not even make sense anymore but I'll clarify any questions you may have.

-Emma