As always this is FAN FICTION not the really McCoy. JK Rowling does those and gets paid really well. Enough to pay for the security she needs from all those that want her fame by association and those that want money without honest work.

This is chapter one of a multi-part story I've finished over the last two years. Yes I wrote slowly. It has not been beta'd but not for lack of trying. After flip between posting this or not for months I've decided to go ahead and post it. "R" rating just to be safe. I would not rate this that high but somewhere I'm sure someone would so I'll error on the safe side

Actually that was true but to be honest this story was written in the 2003-2005 time frame and as of 4-2013 I just did a bit of clean up prior to posting it here. Therefore anything in books 6 & 7 were not known at the time of writing.
Hope you like it and as always if you don't ... Stop reading this and go find another story you like!

Harry descended the stairs at his aunt and uncle's after putting his school trunk in Dudley's smaller bedroom and settling in for the summer waiting for either the start of school in the fall so he could return to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry or for an owl allowing him to join his best friend Ron Weasley and his family at their home, The Burrow.

"Boy come in here," His walrus sized Uncle Vernon called from the living room. As his cousin was always called by name Harry knew he was the one being summoned. When he rounded the corner he noticed his pencil thin Aunt Petunia was sitting primly on the couch while his uncle over filled his recliner to the point it was threatening to pop the sides right off.

"Boy, your aunt has requested that you be allowed to mail your friends. As you have no money you are going to have to work for the neighbors to pay for the postage you need," His uncle said firmly not wanting to admit he also didn't want the visits a lack of letters would bring.

"I'm sorry Uncle Vernon but my friends can't receive mail that way," Harry replied adding mentally, 'Hermione can but you don't need to know that.'

"I suppose that bloody owl is the only thing that will work?"

"Yes Uncle Vernon," Harry replied then watched as his uncle fought to get his next words out.

"Very well, You can use the owl but that filthy bird only flies in and out of this house well after dark. And if I hear one word from the neighbors about owls flying around, One word mind you. It is back into the cage for that bird."

"Yes Uncle Vernon," Harry replied knowing he was dismissed when his uncle and aunt turned their attention back to the telly. Harry hurried up to his room intending to write a least one letter for delivery tonight.

One week later as evening fell Harry sat at the little desk in the bedroom trying to decide who to write to. Every morning since his arrival from Hogwarts his uncle had greeted him with the question, "Mail a letter last night boy?"

The only time he'd answered, "No" his chores had been particularly hard. Harry took the hint and made sure his owl, Hedwig, was busy at night. His friends Ron Weasley and Hermione Granger both owed him letters and he was determined not to bother anyone in the Order of the Phoenix. But he had to write to someone so the Order would know he was all right. Ginny, Ron's younger sister, might work, Mr. Weasley was in the Order and he would know Harry was writing her and he did want to write her even though she already had a boyfriend. He knew Dean Thomas and he was fairly sure Dean would not object too severely. Well Ginny it is, Harry thought taking quill to parchment. Four hours later after many false starts there was a letter for Hedwig to carry.

Ginny had finished saying good night to her family in the living room and was starting up the stairs when Hedwig flew in through the kitchen window the Weasley's left open for just that purpose. Hedwig dodged Ron as he stood up from the chess match he was in with his father and landed on the stair railing right beside Ginny.

"Crazy owl I'm down here." Ron called out as Ginny reached over to scratch the majestic snowy owl's head. Glancing down at the parchment attached she noticed it was addressed to Ginny Weasley. Me? Harry wrote to me? Smiling at Ron Ginny said, "Ron the letter isn't for you," as she removed it from the leg Hedwig held out.

"Of course it's for me who else would Harry write to?"

"Me," the 15 year old teenage girl said just before ducking into her room and closing the door.

"She was joking right? Mum can you go get my letter?" Ron asked looking at his parents who were too busy looking at each other to answer him. "Mum!" Ron tried again to get her attention.

"Now Ron you know Ginny wouldn't take your post but I will go check to be sure," Mrs. Weasley said as she rose from the chair where she'd been knitting.

Ginny heard the knock on her door just before it opened, "Ron I didn't say you could... Oh sorry Mum," Ginny said as she spun to yell at Ron for entering her room without her approval then noticed it was her mother entering.

"So Harry wrote you. What does he have to say?" Her mother asked smiling as she reached for the letter.

"Mum!" Ginny exclaimed as he held the parchment close to her.

"Okay, but let Dad and I know if he has any problems," Her mother said a smile on her face as she retreated down to the living room.

Ginny,

I wanted to say hi and let you know I was a real prat at Christmas. Spending it with you and everyone was very special for me. I also wanted to thank you for bringing me back to reality after I got so down. I was actually thinking Christmas would have been better at the Dursley's but you brought me to my senses in short order.

I really do appreciate your help in all that went on last year. I can't put into words how much your standing with me at the ministry meant to me even when I was still being a prat. I am glad Madam Pomfrey was able to heal your ankle and I am very sorry for being out of it those last few days at Hogwarts. When we see each other again I want to hear about your adventures that night particularly what happened when we were separated. I also want you to know I consider you one of my best friends and while I am aware you and Dean are special friends I would like to continue to write if it's all right with you. Let me know by return owl.

Your friend

Harry

PS In case Ron didn't let you know only send Hedwig home during the dark of night. Things aren't that much better here.

Ginny re-read the letter several times. It was short and it felt like there was something missing. She knew her mum wanted to know what was in it but she wished Hermione were here. Hermione knew Harry like no other girl and might be of help. Making a quick decision she wrote Hermione a quick note and stuck Harry's Parchment inside. Then she looked at Hedwig who had flown in when her mother opened the door asking "This needs to go to Hermione, not Harry, can you take it to her for me?" Ginny was surprised at the look of disdain she received from the owl as Hedwig dutifully held out a leg and allowed Ginny to attach the rolled up parchments before flying off. Ginny then headed downstairs were Ron asked, "What did Harry have to say?"

"I'm not sure."

"Fine, give it here and I'll read it for you," Ron said.

"I've already sent it to Hermione."

"You what?"

"She's a girl who knows Harry and I needed her help," Ginny explained.

"Do you think she will be able to read it?" Mrs. Weasley asked confused that Ginny didn't ask for her or Ron's help.

"Mom, I could read what he wrote. I need to know was what he meant," Ginny explained to her mother as they headed for the kitchen.

"Oh... OH!"

"Right."

"But I could have helped you with that," Her mother said.

"Mum, she knows Harry. She's been the girl closest to him besides I may need your help understanding Hermione."

Hermione heard scratching at her bedroom window getting out of bed she opened it saying, "Hedwig what are you doing here? I still owe Harry a letter." Taking the parchment from the offered leg she recognized Ginny's handwriting, "So now you're flying for Ginny?" She asked as she reached for the stash of owl treats she kept by the window. After setting a dish of them in front of Hedwig she then turned and unrolled the parchment. When Harry's fell out she set it aside and read Ginny's note.

Hermione,

Help! I just received this from Harry. What is going on here? Can you give me any hints as to what he really means?

Ginny

Two hours later Hedwig returned to the Burrow waking Ginny when she flew in the door she'd left ajar just in case. "Hey Hedwig. Take this to Harry it's Ron's parchment I'll send Pig over tomorrow night with my reply," Ginny said as Hedwig munched on the little bowl of treats Ginny had set out. She then took Hermione's parchment from around Harry's and started reading as she reclined in bed.

Ginny,

Thanks for inquiring. Everyone here is fine.

That was an interesting letter you enclosed. I must say I've never received one like that from him. He started with an apology which for Harry was a good sign. You've asked my opinion about what's going on. I think it could be one of several things.

First Harry could just be lonely and missing all of us, Or Harry could be frustrated with Ron not returning his parchments so he decided to owl you to drop a hint to Ron. (I don't think that is it, Harry's normally not that devious he is more the straight forward type.), or He could be writing to see how close you and Dean are (you know find out if your available for snogging.), or it could be all of the above with Harry not knowing which one really prompted him to write to you.

Let me know what it turns out to be.

Hermione

Whoops, I forgot the pleasantries I was so wound up. I'll have to make it up to her. Harry and me snogging that's rich. But I don't think I'll show this letter to mum. Tomorrow morning I see what mum gets from Harry's letter. Ginny thought as she rolled over and went to sleep.

The next morning Ginny was helping her mother clean up from breakfast when she told her mother "Hermione owled me back late last night."

"Oh, so what does she think is up with Harry?"

"She's not sure. Would you care to read his letter and give me your opinion?"

"You don't mind? I seem to remember you were rather protective of it last night," Her mother teased.

"I hadn't even completely read it when you came in."

"How many times have you read it since?"

"Oh, five or six times before I sent it to Hermione... Hey that's not fair," Ginny said as she started to blush.

"After we finish the dishes I'd love to read his letter," Molly Weasley said as she waived her wand putting the breakfast dishes away.

Her mother wasn't much help with Harry's letter. She'd seemed more concerned about Dean Thomas until Ginny told her the truth, that Dean was just a class mate whose name she used to keep everyone from feeling sorry for her when Michael Corner, her former boyfriend, was seen with Cho Chang on the way home from Hogwarts. That revelation had been painful for her to admit to her mother but now outside on a lazy summer day Ginny couldn't feel bad. The day was just too perfect. The only other person at the Burrow was her Mum. Ron was off helping the twins, Fred and George, in their new shop in Diagon Alley. So she could sit outside and write without being bothered. But she was still puzzled about how to reply to Harry's letter. After over half a day spent daydreaming she decided to just answer his questions and give him a little news about the goings on at the Burrow. The letter itself was written in a very short time but the revisions she made to avoid any misunderstandings or possible double entrants took a while. Finally with one last read through after dinner the letter was ready. Ginny waited until deep dusk to send Pigwidgeon off to Harry with her reply. Pigwidgeon returned a few hours later without a reply causing Ginny to sigh and head to bed.

Just past midnight Ginny was awoke by a noise at her window. Hedwig was trying furiously to get her attention. "Hedwig relax I'll be right there." Ginny said crawling out of bed and making her way across the clothes strewn floor to the window. "Doesn't Harry realize how late this is?" She asked the air as Hedwig entered and perched on her desk. Ginny headed for her comfortable bed only to stop when Hedwig hooted and held out a leg.

"Okay... Okay, I'll get the parchment off you but then I am going to bed," Ginny said only to have Hedwig hop the short distance to her bed. Perching there after she'd removed the letter preventing Ginny from laying down. Giving the owl a disgusted look she sat down at her desk casting a Lumos spell so she could read Harry's letter. When she finished the letter she noticed Hedwig was still on her bed so Ginny took a quill in hand writing Harry a short note in reply. When she tried to affix it to Hedwig the owl stayed just out of her reach as it alternately hopped or flew around her room.

"Fine I'll write more," Ginny said settling down at her desk. She finished a second sheet of parchment before Hedwig move over to the desk and held out a leg. Ginny took the hint and signed her name then attached the two sheets to the leg before opening her window allowing Hedwig to fly back to Harry before finally returning to her now free bed. It felt like only moments later that her mother was waking her up.

"Ginny ready to help me with breakfast?"

Ginny looked up at her mother and started slowly to get up.

"Are you all right?" her mother asked when she saw how tired her daughter looked and how slowly she was moving.

"Yes, I'm just a little out of it. Hedwig arrived very late with a letter from Harry," Ginny explained as she moved over to her dresser.

"And?"

"And Hedwig wouldn't let me go back to bed until I answered Harry's letter."

"Why don't you sleep in. I can get breakfast without your help," Mrs. Weasley said shutting Ginny's door and casting a silencing charm to allow her daughter to sleep peacefully.

It was a few days later after Mr. & Mrs. Weasley adjourned to their bedroom for the night that Mr. Weasley drew his wand casting strong silencing spells around the room. "What's up Arthur?" Molly asked watching her husband walking around their bedroom waiving his wand.

"Just a moment dear." Arthur said as he was casting a special spell to guard against extendible ears. "Now we can talk. I had a visitor today. He wanted to talk about Hermione Granger."

"That is a bit unusual," Molly replied.

"I thought so too. But it gets better. He would like me to bring her to the ministry. They want to see if she can remove a prophecy from the shelf."

"Wait a minute didn't you tell me after that battle at the end of the school term that only the giver and the subjects could remove a prophecy from the shelf?"

"That is true."

"I take it she didn't make a prophecy," Molly said looking at her husband with interest.

"No, in fact they are not sure if the prophecy is even about her. This is their way of finding out."

"So what makes them think it's about her?"

"The description seems to match her. Muggle born female who is very bright," Arthur said.

"That could have been any number of students over the years."

"True but there is one other person described in the written record."

"They have written records of the prophecies?" Molly asked.

"No, just who it's about and where it is. The other person described matches Harry Potter."

"Not her and Harry!" Molly exclaimed as thoughts of how her two youngest would react to a pairing of Harry and Hermione suddenly came to mind.

"Now Molly they may not have it right. Best if we let this one run its course before we worry too much," Arthur cautioned.

"Yes dear, but you know I will worry about Ron and Ginny until this is settled."

"Ginny?" Arthur asked suddenly confused.

"She's started sleeping until noon." Seeing a puzzled look on her husband's face Molly continued. "Harry's been owling her. Every night Hedwig arrives a little before midnight and Ginny stays up reading and replying. I cast a time charm on her window last night when we went to bed. When I checked the charm today it showed Hedwig flying out about 90 minutes before sunrise."

"Didn't know that." Arthur said laying back on his pillow thinking. "Molly do you think it would be a good idea for Ginny to come with Hermione to the Ministry? I mean if you brought both of them say just before lunch it might throw off anyone watching. They might think it was just you three coming to lunch with me."

"That is a good idea. Now get these spells off so I can go to sleep. They make it too quiet in here."

"Yes dear," Arthur said rising up slightly and removing his wand from the night stand he returned everything to normal.

A few days later Molly gathered up Ginny and together they floo'ed to the Leaky Cauldron where they met Hermione who was waiting with her mother. "Thank you for letting Hermione come with us Mrs. Granger. I assure you either Arthur or I will be with her at every moment."

"You have always treated her as if she were your own Mrs. Weasley. I want you and your husband to know how much Mr. Granger and I appreciate that," Hermione's mother replied.

"Thank you. I wish I could tell you how long this will take but this is the first time I've been to visit my husband in a while. I suspect it will take a longer time to get in today."

"That's all right. Hermione knows the way home," Mrs. Granger said as she rose to leave.

"I am sure she does but either I or my husband will escort her there," Mrs. Weasley said rising also. She shook hands with Mrs. Granger then led the girls to the fireplace. With a cry of, "The Ministry," Mrs. Weasley followed the girls to the ministry. They arrived in the long hall with the dark wood floor keeping their feet with only a little wobble. "Ah, yes now which way?" Mrs. Weasley muttered looking up and down the hall.

"This way," Hermione said as she and Ginny started down the hall.

"Oh yes, I remember now," Mrs. Weasley said following along.

"Wands Please," the security guard said stopping them at the desk.

"No," Ginny said looking at the guard as she reached up her sleeve gripping her wand tightly.

"Now dear he only wants to register your wand," Mrs. Weasley said.

"Sorry the rules now require me to hold all wands until you leave," The Guard said.

"That is so not going to happen," Hermione said grabbing her own wand.

The guard notified his backup of trouble and suddenly there were rapid pops as three additional guards apparated behind them. "Now surrender your wands," the guard behind the desk said briskly.

With a contrite look on her face Hermione looked at Ginny who nodded in agreement. Before the guards could react Hermione dropped the guard behind the desk with a Petrificus Totalus spell then crouched and spun to face those behind her. Her incantation stopped on her lips as she watched them fall. All three had been hit with Full Body binds by Ginny, the last one still toppling to the ground.

"Men," Mrs. Weasley said her voice full of disgust.

"Your not mad Mum?" Ginny asked as she watched what little crowd there had been in the entrance hall rapidly disperse leaving just the three of them and the immobilized guards.

"Not at all. Those gits on the other hand deserved what they got getting all pushy with us just because we are female."

A new series of pops signaled another group of guards arriving. They promptly joined their friends immobile on the floor.

Ginny and Hermione were just straightening up from that round of attacks when they heard a body fall. They turned to see Mrs. Weasley returning her wand to a pocket. "Thought I counted one more pop. Teach him to try and sneak up on my daughters."

Ginny looked at her mother in surprise unsure rather it was her quick wand work or her referring to Hermione as her daughter that surprise her more.

"Thunk, Thunk, Thunk," Reverberated down the long entrance hall. "What the?" Ginny exclaimed puzzled by the noise.

"I suspect they are sealing the fire places to prevent us from getting reinforcements," Mrs. Weasley said looking around carefully.

Ginny and Hermione were looking in surprise at a suddenly more confidant and in control Mrs. Weasley. "Your mum doesn't seem to fazed by what's going on," Hermione said.

Ginny's reply was cut off when a voice called out, "Hey, what are you three up too?" as its owner emerged from a hidden door just to their right behind the security desk.

"Tonks, is that you?" Ginny asked.

"Who else? Now what is going on here?" Tonks asked stopping at the guard station and sitting on a corner of the desk.

With her wand now trained on Tonks Mrs. Weasley replied, "The guards tried to take our wands."

Tonks looked down at the guard that had been manning the station, "`Ask politely don't be adversarial' Do you remember your instructions now? I gave you that briefing myself." After looking back to the trio she continued as if they were having tea, "He never was too bright. I think he saw you three and decided to get stupid, serves him right," she added before stepping on him as she made her way around to the gate.

"What's next," Hermione asked.

"Hopefully you three lower your wands and my boss comes out and let's you through."

"Right," Ginny said and with a deliberate move returned her wand to the arm holster. Hermione mirrored her move and then Mrs. Weasley tucked her wand back into her robes.

Tonks eyes widened as she watch where the two girls stored their wands, "you two always that ready?"

"Constant Vigilance!" Ginny and Hermione coursed together.

Tonks chuckled as a tall distinguished looking gentleman was approaching the desk from a side corridor. "Tonks is everything under control?" The gentleman asked as he approached the desk.

"Yes, these two refuse to surrender their wands and this one got a little too pushy," She said motioning to the one lying frozen beside the desk.

"And those?" He said motioning to the other immobilized guards lying around the hall.

"They tried to help him," Mrs. Weasley said.

"Who... Oh. I'm sorry I didn't recognize you right off Mrs. Weasley and these two must be Miss Granger and Miss Weasley, yes I believe they would not part with their wands. Now if you would remove the restraints on the guards I'll try and straighten this out."

Hermione, Ginny, and Mrs. Weasley visited their victims casting Finite Incantatem spells terminating the spells holding the guards immobile.

The first guard rose beside the desk. With fire in his eyes he reached for his wand only to stop when Tonks stepped in front of him with her wand up. He looked around and spotted the gentleman standing beside the desk.

"Pass them through, with their wands in one piece, on my authority," The gentleman said directly to the guard.

"But."

"You may not know them by sight now but you will. These two were among the Hogwarts students who prevent the ministry attack by you-know-who. They can be trusted. In their eyes it is us who can't be trusted. If they feel safer keeping their wands let them. I take it you're here to see Mr. Weasley."

"Yes my husband invited us to lunch with him," Mrs. Weasley said speaking up.

"Level three is where you are headed then. Mrs. Weasley the elevators are right over here," The gentleman said escorting them through the golden gate. Mrs. Weasley and the girls thanked him as they got on the elevator.

"Ah, there you are," Mr. Weasley called out as he saw them exit the elevator. "I've been waiting to see you. I was afraid you got caught in the lock down."

"We caused it," Ginny blurted out.

"Oh well, you can tell me all about it over lunch," Mr. Weasley said a touch too loudly as he directed them back on to a suddenly empty elevator car.

"Level 9," Mr. Weasley said to Ginny who was standing beside the controls. "Once we get there they will take Hermione and we will wait until she comes back. Should only take a few minutes."

"I promised Hermione's mother that you or I would be with her at all times. And after what just happened I intend to be with her at all times," Mrs. Weasley said looking her husband square in the eye.

"But Molly."

"Don't but Molly me Arthur Weasley! I will explain it to whoever we meet and I'm sure they will understand. I am not letting this young lady out of my sight," The opening of the elevator doors prevented any further comments.

"Professor Moody," Hermione said in greeting as she was getting off the elevator.

"Hermione, nice to see you and the Weasleys."

"There is a slight problem," Mrs. Weasley said and repeated her conversation with Mr. Weasley.

"Not really a problem that is if you don't mind a silencing charm around your head I have no problem you watching but I would prefer to limit the number of individuals who hear the Prophecy should this work."

"I don't like it but it is acceptable," Mrs. Weasley replied.

"Good." Moody said casting a bubble head silencing charm around the three Weasleys he lead all four through the maze to the rack of prophecies. "Now Hermione this is the one we would like you to try and remove," He said indicating one globe sitting on a shelf full of globes.

Hermione reached up, put her hand above the globe and looked at Professor Moody. When he nodded she grasped the globe and removed it. Looking over at Mr. & Mrs. Weasley she could see their eyes widen is surprise while Ginny just grinned at her.

"Everything is as we thought. Would you come this way there are a few individuals who would like to be around to hear this," Moody said leading the way out of the room.

"Professor can Ginny hear this at least?" Hermione asked as she followed Moody.

"That would be highly unusual. May I ask why?"

"I would like to be able to discuss what I hear with a friend. Ginny besides being my best girlfriend, is a Weasley."

"Yes and the Weasleys all have our trust." Moody said. As he looked intently at Hermione with both eyes. Reaching a decision he walked over to Ginny and waived his wand removing the bubble head silencing spell while keeping his magical eye on Hermione. "Ginny, Hermione has requested you hear this too. I've reluctantly agreed but once off this floor I expect the two of you to cast the strongest silencing and anti-eavesdropping spells you can prior to discussing not only what you hear but anything you see down here."

"Yes Professor," Both girls said before everyone followed Moody into a nearly pitch black adjacent room where a couple of other individuals could be seen only as dim shadows.

Once everyone was in Moody spent a minute casting several spells to seal the room. After he finished he turned to face Hermione asking, "Memorize them did you?"

"How?" She started to ask then after a glance at his magical eye still fixed on her she continued, "All but the last one."

"Good I turned so you wouldn't get that one. Still need to keep some secrets. You can open that ball now," Moody said nodding towards the small engraved crystal ball she held in her hands.

Hermione looked at Ginny who stepped closer as Hermione opened the ball. A strong female voice filled the room saying;

"From the Muggle world one will emerge, pure of heart with a love of learning. Early in her life she will be mistaken for the next lioness of Gryffindor. That role is for her friend. Families will be united and roles solidified by one ceremony before school's end. Essential the Muggle born and her real mate will be to the true lion and lioness of Gryffindor in the fight against the dark lord."

"We know you are the one from the muggle world." Ginny said after a few moments of silence.

"We are reasonably sure the lion of Gryffindor refers to Harry," Moody added.

"That makes sense. But who are the lioness and my 'real mate'" Hermione asked afraid of the answer she would get.

"Too early to guess but rest assured we are going to be putting some effort figuring out that." Moody said looking at Hermione while his magical eye was focused on Ginny.

"Hey I had a crush on Harry. I am not your lioness." Ginny said a little too rapidly.

"I wasn't implying anything Miss Weasley." Moody said then looking at Hermione he asked, "How is Mr. Potter doing at the Dursley's?"

"I haven't heard from him for weeks," Hermione replied suddenly concerned until she saw a blush starting to creep up Ginny's face.

"That is odd Arthur assured me someone had heard from him more recently than that." Moody said looking over at the two elder Weasleys who were looking on still wearing the bubble head silencing charm.

"That would be me. I heard from Harry last night. He says he's fine but can't wait to come to the Burrow," Ginny said while trying to keep the smile, which appeared every time she talked about Harry, off her face and the blushing to a minimum.

"Glad someone's keeping in touch," Moody said as he was removing the bubble head charms from Mr. & Mrs. Weasley.

"Who is in touch?" Mrs. Weasley asked as Moody removed the charm in time for her to hear his last comment.

"Harry and Ginny," Moody said as he began removing the wards he had placed on the room.

"I knew that all ready," Molly said fussing with her robes.

"Arthur why don't you take these three lovely ladies to lunch in our cafeteria," Moody suggested as he opened the door.

"Good idea," Arthur said letting the girls lead the way to the elevator.

Meanwhile at 4 Privy Drive, Harry was sitting at the desk in Dudley's smaller bedroom confused and happy because Ginny had signed her last letter "Love Ginny" He was confused because he was unsure of his feeling and happy because he knew she really liked him and for a soon to be 16 year old boy knowing a girl that you fancy likes you was always a good thing. Harry knew he couldn't ask anyone at Privy Drive for advice on how best to reply. He was the non-existent freak as far as his aunt and uncle were concerned. Ron, his best friend, was Ginny's extreme protective older brother and not a good choice. Harry chucked at the thought, Ron old chap, Your baby sister just told me by accident that she loved me. How do you think I should respond? He'd be lucky to escape with only a broken nose. He could hear Hermione, Harry you have to decide how you feel about her and then let her know. As for anyone else they just weren't available. Sirius would have been his first choice but. No he would not go down that road. It never turned out good. Sirius was with his parents best leave it at that. Harry though before deciding the best course would be to write Ginny as if nothing was different, she had slipped and he wasn't going to embarrass her over it. Naturally it didn't quite work out that way. As Harry took quill to parchment that afternoon his mood was the best it had been all summer and that night's letter reflected his mood.

Back at the Ministry the Weasleys plus one were sitting around a table eating and enjoying light conversation when Hermione asked Ginny how often Harry was owling her.

"Nightly, I sleep in until about noon then help mum with lunch. After lunch I go back to bed and nap until dinner. The days something special in going on like today or yesterday when we had a Weasley Quidditch game in the afternoon, I play chaser to prepare for the house team, days like that I postpone my nap until after dinner and get up when Hedwig arrives with Harry's letter.

"Ginny why do you write to Harry every night?" Hermione asked.

"Because neither you nor my dear but lazy brother have been very good at keeping up with replying to Harry's letters. I figure George and Fred have their work to do for the Order, I have mine, keeping in touch with Harry. Which as jobs for the Order go is a very easy one." Ginny said watching Hermione's face. Not noticing the looks passing between her parents.

"Oh so it is a sense of duty that keeps you writing to Harry," Hermione said watching her best girlfriend closely.

Sure enough Ginny started to rise to be bait then realized her parents were at the table and Hermione had been teasing her to get just the comment she'd been about to make. "Hermione some times!" Ginny said a grin spreading across her face.

Shortly after midnight back at the Burrow that same evening Ginny sat re-reading Harry's letter for that night for the third time. She noticed he was a lot more upbeat and that raised her spirits. She was debating how if at all to tell Harry about the trip to the Ministry He had not mentioned anything about their last visit there and she decided she could tell him the cover story. That she and Hermione had gone to eat lunch with her father. The rest of the Ministry story could wait. It would be better told in person anyway. Besides it would give her time to figure out how to down play her role.

The following day Ginny awoke to shouting like she'd never heard from downstairs. Who every had set off her mother was in for the beating of their life. After quickly running through everything that she had done lately Ginny decided it was safe for her to go downstairs.

Descending the stairs she could see her father was still home and trying to calm down his wife, "Now Molly you know he isn't talking to us."

Now what did Percy do? Ginny thought. Spotting the Daily Prophet laying open on the table she picked it up and started to read;

The Ministry is not all doom and gloom after the recent attack. Yesterday in a beautiful ceremony attended by the bride's family and the Groom's co-workers Miss Penelope Clearwater and Mr. Percy Weasley were married by the Minister of Magic himself. The Ceremony was simple and restrained in keeping with the mood at the Ministry. Despite this being the first marriage that has been announced for this generation of Weasleys. The entire Weasley family were noticeably absent from this ceremony which unites two of the more well known wizarding families in England.

The Daily Prophet went on to describe what Penelope wore and all the other wedding stuff but right now Fred, George and Ron were pestering her to find out why Mum was crying and screaming at the same time. Thrusting the paper at them she sputtered, "Percy is the worlds biggest git!" and headed to the stove to take over for her mother fixing breakfast for the family.

By noon time everyone but her and Mum had left. Her Dad, after calming his wife down, had gone in to work late and when the twins left to open their shop for the day they took Ron along. "Best come with us. Can't upset mum that way." Was they way they'd worded it. Ginny had fixed a light salad and had finally persuaded her mum to sit down and eat when the fireplace flared and a head poked through the flames. "Mrs. Weasley can I come visit?" An obviously scared Penelope called out.

Ginny quickly looked to her mother who squared her shoulders and put her company smile on before saying, "Of course dear you are always welcome at the Burrow, especially now."

Penelope's head disappeared only to return moments later attached to her whole body as she stepped from the fireplace. Ginny watched as her mother arched an eyebrow at this but said nothing as she stood before coming around the table to greet her new daughter-in-law, "If the Daily Prophet is correct I believe you are my daughter-in-law."

"Yes, Mrs. Weasley."

"Oh come now, call me Molly or Mum which ever you prefer."

"Okay, Molly. Hi Ginny. Molly I love your son but I didn't want you excluded. Things were done in a hurry and I wanted to apologize and explain." Penelope said looking at Ginny as she said the last of it.

"I get the hint, I'll be outside de-Gnoming when you want me." Ginny said rising from the table.

"I think it would be better for you to stay. I'm sure you will know all we discuss in a short time anyway." Mrs. Weasley said looking at Ginny.

"Okay, best to get everything on the table. When Percy moved out he was at a loss. I couldn't stand to see him in such pain so I moved in with him." Penelope said smoothing her robes.

Molly, who was nodding in understanding said, "I suspected as much. Percy was one for being fastidious but not too good at keeping up with laundry and such."

"You are right there. We had our occasional spats but overall it was great. Then the big attack at the ministry happened and Percy was devastated. I ended up consoling him a little too well."

"Ah, let me guess the rest. It might be easier. A few weeks later you found out and told Percy. He panicked and scheduled the wedding giving you barely enough time to invite your folks." Molly said.

"Yes, please don't hate me." Penelope said breaking down in tears.

"You love my son and came to see me under very difficult circumstances. How could I hate you?" Molly said wrapping her arms around her new daughter.

Minutes later after everything had calmed down Penelope asked, "How did you know? I've only told Percy and my mother."

"You had a quick wedding. When you came to visit you didn't apparate. Something all young Witches and Wizards do at the drop of a hat. One reason you might not is pregnancy. Finally you are glowing. So I took a little chance. You're going to be a Mum and you love it."

"Your right of course. But Percy wants everyone to think it happened on our wedding night."

"If that is what both of you want we will keep your secret." Mrs. Weasley said looking pointedly at Ginny.

"Of course I will Sis. But let me know when it is official I can't wait to tell Fred and George that Percy gets the prize." Ginny said beaming.

"Prize?" Penelope asked.

"Fred and George have been teasing me for over a year now that I would be the first Weasley of our generation to have a kid."

"I didn't know that." Molly said.

"It was part of their teasing me about Harry, Mum."

"And how are you and Harry?" Penelope asked.

"I write to him, he writes to me. We are friends and that's about it. Now if you know of a way to get Ron to finally admit he fancies Hermione she and I would both like to know it."

"Ron and Hermione, I recall seeing the beginnings of that back at Hogwarts. Now you are sure you and Harry are just friends?"

"Not you too, I'm not saying if he was willing I'd say no but..."

"Ginny Weasley I didn't raise you to be a scarlet woman!" Molly said interrupting a shocked expression on her face.

"Oh mum, it's not like he will ever notice me. He is into dark haired beauty's like Cho Chang." Ginny said just before a big sigh.

"You have news for tonight's letter at least." Noting the puzzled look on Ginny's face her mother continued, "Penelope and Percy's wedding. We will not know the rest until she makes her announcement."

"You are right. Thanks, I was running out of things to say."

Ginny stayed at the table as her mother and Penelope talked through various family things with her mother passing on pregnancy precautions and care as subtlety as she could. Distracted she re-read the wedding announcement Oh darn, OH DARN! "Mum can Hermione come for a visit tomorrow?" She suddenly asked.

"Of course." Molly said surprised at the sudden interruption.

"Thanks." Ginny said taking off towards her room.

"I don't know what that was all about." Ginny heard her mother say as she ran up the stairs to her room.

The next morning Hermione arrived by Floo at the Burrow. "Hermione what are you doing here?" Ron asked looking up from his breakfast.

"Ginny invited me for the day. I had my folks drop me at the Leaky Cauldron and used their fireplace." Hermione replied.

"Now Ron, Hermione and I are going to my room for a while. After that the three of us will go swimming or something." Ginny said dragging Hermione towards the stairs.

"But!"

"Ron, Ginny invited her not you now go find something to do until they want to go swimming. If you can't find anything the garden always could use a good de-Gnoming." Molly said.

Once in Ginny's room Hermione watched Ginny casting every silencing spell she knew. When she stopped Hermione cast the ones she'd picked from Moody, "There that should do it." Ginny said.

"What's this all about?" Hermione asked.

"Did you read the Daily Prophet yesterday?"

"About Percy getting married of course. But you could have asked me that in a letter."

"No it was a phrase they used. Do you recall ever hearing the phrase 'Families will be united.'"

"No... Oh!" Hermione said her eyes widening.

"Yea Oh, I didn't catch the meaning of that until I read the article about Percy and Penelope. I thought it meant we would join each other in fighting Tom 'Families will be united before school's end.' Do you think it could mean you are going to be married soon?" Ginny asked.

"Not just me. Harry too. Are you sure you're not the lioness of Gryffindor." Hermione said looking at Ginny with wide eyes.

"I don't know. If I am, that means I've got to be married in my sixth year. Okay it would be Harry, but Sixth year!" Ginny said with equally wide eyes.

"My true mate,' and I still haven't met him yet." Hermione said as she sat on Ginny's bed thinking the prophecy through.

"It could be Ron." Ginny offered.

"The way we fight I doubt it, but I might have something to fix that today and if it doesn't there's still sixth year and part of seventh before 'school's end.'"

"A year and a half before..." Ginny offered.

The two of them debated the various interpretations of the prophecy over the next hour before deciding it was time to take Ron swimming. Ginny pulled her old one piece suit out of a drawer then turned to ask Hermione about her suit because she didn't remember her bringing any bags. "I've got it right here," Hermione said reaching in her purse and pulling out a couple of scraps of material.

Once they had changed Ginny looked over asking, "What is that you're wearing?"

"A string bikini, My folks and I took a short vacation right after I got home and my old suit didn't fit. Mum suggested this one because it's all ties and I can adjust it to fit if I grow some more."

"Oh sounds reasonable. Just don't let Mum see it. She thinks this old suit is borderline scandalous. That suit might earn even you a mother daughter talk from Mum."

"Do you want one of these?" Hermione asked holding up two rings of lacy material with a clip on the side of it.

"What is it?"

"Wand holder, Mum saw the one I wore to the Ministry and say it was too masculine for a girl. She hunted around then had one of the neighborhood ladies sew this up for me." Hermione said sliding it up her arm before snapping her wand in the tiny clip. "I brought one as a gift." She added holding it out to Ginny.

"Thanks." Ginny said sliding it up and clipping her wand in. "This actually looks pretty on my arm. Thanks Hermione."

"I'll thank mum for the both of us."

"We'd better get something over our suits. Don't want mum to have a fit," Ginny said tossing Hermione a T-shirt she'd stolen from Ron before pulling one over her own head.

Ron was in the living room when they came down. "Finally ready are you, it will take me a few minutes to get my suit on."

"Okay, we will meet you down at the swimming hole." Ginny said heading out the door as he headed up to his room.

"Meet you there." Ron called out ducking into the bathroom. Relax, you get to see Hermione in a swimsuit! Ron thought as he went about getting ready. Yea just the sight of her in the morning gets you going and that's fully clothed. She will be wearing a suit like Ginny and there's nothing about that suit to get excited about it's practically like wearing clothes, But what if she doesn't have a suit like Ginny's. The arguments raged in his mind. Finally grabbing his towel he headed out.

Down at the swimming hole Ginny looked at Hermione as she spread a towel out on the sand. "I thought we were going swimming," Ginny said.

"I just wanted to get a little sun first."

"Little sun, are you sure you don't want Ron to get a real good eyeful? Ron will need a bib when he sees you."

"I hope so. I had a really long talk with Mum about Ron. She suggested that if it was time I decided I was serious about him. We talked it through going over all my choices. I finally decided to take some of her advice and emphasize the girl and forget the brains for a while." Hermione confessed.

"Really?'

"Yes really. Turns out my father was a lot like Ron and needed a nudge to see mum in the right way. I figure if it worked for her..."

"Would you like me to leave if it starts getting good?" Ginny asked looking at Hermione as she fussed with the towel before lying down.

"I'm not sure."

"You know Ron wouldn't hurt you and you have your wand to protect you from anyone else. Tell you what I'll do what feels right at the time." Ginny said knowing that as soon as her brother saw Hermione she would only be in the way.

"Thanks Ginny."

"Don't mention it especially to my Mum. I heard the Burrow's door better get in position." Ginny said watching Hermione recline on the towel. Ginny could hear Ron trying to sneak up on them then the noise stopped and she looked up to see her wide eyed brother standing with his mouth open looking at Hermione. Walking over she whispered in his ear, "Ron I'm going back to the house for a while why don't you and Hermione have fun."

Hermione fought to lie still on the blanket she heard Ginny walk away and knew Ron must be close by. But she didn't want to make the first move. Her mother was very specific on that point. Ron had to come to her otherwise she might spook him off.

"Hi." Ron said so nervous his voice actually squeaked.

"Oh hi, finally come to join us?" Hermione said rolling her head slightly to take in him standing beside her.

"Ah... yea,"

"I wasn't going to go in right off I wanted to just relax in the sun. Care to join me? There's room enough for two on the towel."

"Yea... Sure." Ron stammered out watching Hermione roll up on her side and scoot over to free a small length of towel for him to lie on.

When she felt him lay down beside her Hermione had a hard time keeping her calm. She wanted so bad to wrap her arms around him and kiss him senseless but her mother's warning kept her pinned to the towel waiting for Ron to decide.

"Ginny why did you come back?"

"I am just too tired mum. Ron's down there with Hermione so I figured I'd catch a nap." Ginny said watching her mother carefully.

"All right." Mrs. Weasley said initially worried at her son being alone with Hermione but then she realized this was Hermione, the smart girl, and if anyone could control Ron it was her.

Just before dinner Ginny woke up and started to putter around her room She glanced out her window and happened to see two individuals return from the swimming hole holding hands and gently nudging each other in a teasing way as they made their way up to the Burrow. A minute later Hermione came into her room and collapsed on the bed. "Well?" Ginny asked. Hermione just smiled and pulled the T-shirt off tossing in into Ginny's hamper. "I take it the fact your not wearing the top of your swim suit is an indication everything went well." Ginny added with a smile.

"Ron and I have reached an understanding." Hermione said with a smile.

"Oh really I never would have guessed."

"Ginny I think I know who my mate will be." Hermione said before starting to get dressed in street clothes.

"I don't want to know any more, that's my brother I think your talking about, but I think Mum will be glad you used the words, will be."

"Definitely it was your brother I was talking about. Your mother insisted I stay for dinner then your dad will see me home."

"Hermione, The reason Mum insisted you stay was so she could check out how you and Ron act around each other after spending the day alone together."

"Oh?"

"Why don't you just come down with me and tell her up front you snogged her son senseless before she figures it out during dinner." Ginny said looking at the dreamy look on Hermione's face, "On second thought if you had that look on your face when you came in she all ready knows. How is Ron by the way?"

"Nice and Cuddly," Hermione said while thinking I wish I could fall asleep in those strong arms!

"Hermione please, that's stuff I don't need to know," Ginny replied with a shiver.

"Don't ask then."

"What I meant was is he as goofy as you are?"

Hermione waived her hand in a gesture of confusion more like Lavender Brown than Hermione.

"Girlfriend you are totally gone. When mum sees you like this she's going to insure you know the anti-conception spells."

"I all ready know them," Hermione said confidently.

"Really?"

"I studied them during fourth year when I wanted a break from helping Harry with the tasks for the tri-wizards tournament. I also memorized the conception spells."

"Hermione!" Ginny replied shocked for another time this afternoon.

"Oh Ginny, The one's I found require the girl to cast them on herself. I can't cast one on Parvati. Talk about someone who's got the anti-conception spells down pat."

Dinner that night was an interesting time for a change. Ginny was able to fade into the background and watch the twins as they picked up on Ron and Hermione's changed attitudes towards each other. Naturally being the older siblings they were, the teasing rapidly commenced. "Ron, our inept younger brother, seems to have come out of his shell. Don't you agree?" Fred asked looking at George.

"I must agree, particularly as I'm seeing Miss Granger starting to blush," George replied.

"George do you have any idea what could have caused this sudden change?" Fred asked wiggling his eyebrows outrageously.

"Boys..." Mrs. Weasley a warning tone in her voice.

"Mum, we are just passing on what Bill and Charlie did to us," They replied speaking in turn.

"Don't say your mother did not warn you two. Hermione you should know the only way the ministry can detect underage magic in this house is if the spell is done incorrectly. A properly cast spell won't set off any alarms." Mr. Weasley said looking at Hermione.

"Dad, that is Hermione you have just gave the all clear to." Fred said a nervous twitch in his voice.

"I know. I did it in front of you so you've been warned twice," Mr. Weasley replied.

"Well she can't get both of us with one spell," George said looking at Fred.

"Right so Ron what color robes should we get for your wed...," George said only to be stopped in mid sentence when Hermione's wand flashed spitting out ropes that bound and gagged both of the twins at once.

Mrs. Weasley was shaking her head laughing at her son's predicament, "I love them but sometimes they are so dumb. They don't remember you and Ginny took on the ministry guards and won. Then they heard their father give her permission. Some days it's a wonder those two can walk."

"Sorry Mrs. Weasley," Hermione apologized.

"Don't be, in fact leave those two like that until we finish eating it will be a lot quieter that way."

"Hermione you must teach me that variation. I could use it at work." Mrs. Weasley said admiring her handwork.

Hermione was sitting next to Ron blushing to the roots of her bushy brown hair. Mr. Weasley's complement had caught her completely off guard. "Uh sure Mr. Weasley," she managed before forcing her attention back to her plate. After everyone including the twins had finished desert Hermione was in the kitchen with Ginny and Mrs. Weasley learning the magical way of kitchen cleanup when she said, "Ginny I almost forgot would you like to spend next week with me? My folks asked if I had a girlfriend I would like to have visit for a week. It would be Monday through Sunday. My folks are working until Thursday but they hinted that something fun to do could be found for Friday, Saturday and Sunday."

"Mum?" Ginny asked turning toward her mother.

"Of course Hermione's visited us often enough. If you want to go your father and I don't see any problem with it."

"Are you sure you wouldn't prefer Ron?" Ginny asked a twinkle in her eyes.