Harry's Search For Love

Chapter 4

Ron stood at the doorway, watching Harry leave with Snape. When he saw Charlie starting to walk back towards the house, he noticed he was glaring at him. "Why does Harry feel he needs to get away?"

Charlie glared back at Ron. As concerned as he was about Harry, he didn't need Ron being thickheaded about the situation. "How in the bloody hell can you be so dense, Ron? Harry just watched this family get attacked, yet again. First Ginny, then Dad, then Bill." His voice broke from the pain of saying his brother's name. "Now Percy. This attack, now that he's a permanent part of the family was just too much for him. He wants some space. So we give him some space so he can figure things out. This attack was his biggest fear about living here. You know that. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to talk to Dumbledore."

Charlie walked past Ron and back into the living room. He saw Dumbledore talking to Tonks. "Excuse me, sir, can I have a moment?"

"Tonks, thank you for the update. Please keep me informed." Dumbledore turned to Charlie. "Okay, Charlie, you have your moment."

"I wanted to see if you needed me for anything?"

Dumbledore sat down on the couch and invited Charlie to sit down beside him. "Charlie, for now it's best for you to stay here. You and Thomas need to start working with Ron, Hermione, and Ginny. Please advise them that they don't have to complete their summer assignments, they've been waived. Percy will also need training, when the shock wears off."

"Okay, we'll start in the morning. What about Harry?"

"I'll start Harry's special training during his next visit to Hogwarts. He should be back here in a few days. Knowing Harry, he won't wallow long. When he does come back, be available if he wants to talk. Otherwise don't ask him any questions. I've learned that Harry will come to someone when he needs to talk."

Charlie thought through Dumbledore's request. "Of course."

"Good. I need to leave now and make sure Harry gets settled," Dumbledore replied, standing up.

Charlie walked Dumbledore to the door. "Good night, sir."

When Charlie turned, he saw his mum and Thomas talking at the base of the stairs. He walked toward them.

Mrs. Weasley watched her son approach. She was still angry that Severus had taken Harry away without talking to her first. "Did Dumbledore say where Harry has gone?"

"Yes, Mum. He went home to Potter Manor."

The anger faded out of her eyes at hearing where Harry went. She knew that Dumbledore had worked tirelessly in getting the house ready for him. "I'm sure he needed to go. I just hate that he's discovering that house by himself, with no moral support. Well, I need to go finish cleaning up. See you two in the morning."

Charlie looked at Thomas. "I'm going to check on Percy. We'll talk in the morning about a training schedule."

Charlie walked up to Percy's room and knocked on the door. He heard a muffled, "Come in."

Charlie opened the door and saw Percy pulling out books from his personal bookcase. Charlie leaned against the doorframe as he watched. "Are you planning on reading all night?"

Percy looked up distracted. "Huh? Oh, no. I only skimmed anything related to Aurors. I just want to re-read the information. And I'm sure Hermione would like to read some of these, while she's on vacation."

"Okay, that makes sense. But, can I ask why?"

Percy sat down on the bed hard. "I'm tired of being the good Weasley."

Percy glared at Charlie when he started to interrupt. "Let me finish. Look what happened to Bill. He was a prefect, Head Boy and then went to work at Gringotts. He wasn't prepared to fight Death Eaters, but he did anyway, and now he's gone. I've learned a lot from Bill. He was my role model growing up. And no matter how thickheaded I was regarding the whole Voldemort situation, he still kept in touch with me. I've learned one final thing from him, now that he's gone."

Charlie raised his eyebrow and sat down on the bed beside Percy. "And what's that?"

"Being a smart Wizard is just not enough to work in the Order. I need to know how to defend myself. I want to be an Auror."

"You need to think this through, Percy. But if it's what you want, I'm ready to train you."

Charlie stood up from the bed. "Look, I understand where you're coming from, just think about exactly what you want to do. It's okay if you don't want to actually fight. We have other things you can do. I'm going to check on the twins and see how much free time they can take from their business. Dumbledore wants us to start training them in the morning. If you feel up to it, join us."

Charlie made his way to the twins' room. When he walked in, he found the twins, Fred and George, but also Ron, Ginny, and Hermione. They all stopped talking when Charlie walked in.

"Good," Charlie said, as he leaned against the doorframe, "you're all together. I won't have to repeat this. We start training in the morning. Hermione, I know you're leaving to spend time with your family, and you are going. No arguments. Percy may have some books for you to review while you're away. Check with him before you leave tomorrow.

"Fred and George, I know you're both busy with your business, but how much free time can you make?"

Fred and George looked at each other. Fred nodded and looked at Charlie. "We'll take shifts, so we can each work half a day. We'll shelve all new experiments until this is over. We have someone competent running our store at Diagon Alley now, so that shouldn't be a problem."

Charlie smiled. "Thank you, guys. And have I told you lately that the connection you two have is creepy? Anyway, I know your business is important to both of you. So the sacrifice is appreciated."

He turned to Ron and Ginny, who were sitting side be side on Fred's bed. "For the remainder of the summer, all homework is cancelled. You two also start training in the morning. And Hermione, your summer assignments have also been cancelled."

That comment shocked Hermione, as she had already completed some of her assignments.

Ron spoke up. "What about Harry? What's he doing?"

"Harry will catch up when he returns. What he has to learn is different from what the rest of you need to learn. Dumbledore will be working with him on that. Let's get some sleep. We have a busy morning," Charlie said, as he turned and walked out the door.

Charlie walked outside and removed the awning, lighting, and decorations from the garden. He was walking toward the swing when Severus appeared. Charlie smiled and grabbed his hand to pull him down on the swing with him. "I take it with your return that Harry is safely tucked in?"

Severus leaned his head back and looked up at the night sky. "Yes he is. I just hated Albus' idea of leaving him alone with only a house-elf. But, Albus is never wrong. So, how is Percy?" Severus asked, looking back at Charlie.

Charlie sighed. "Percy is fine. He's angry, but he has a solid head on his shoulders. How are you?"

"Me?" Severus snorted. "Pissed off. I had to hide in the house like a squib until everyone had left. I was scared to death watching you put yourself in harms way."

Charlie took his hand and starting rubbing the tension in Severus' neck. "So, what are you going to be doing the next few days?"

"Nothing, unless I need to check on Harry. Why?"

"Dumbledore wants to start the teenagers training and I can use some help."

Severus reached up and touched Charlie's face. "Let me go get some clothes and I'll be back in a bit."

Severus leaned over and kissed Charlie. Charlie moaned when he gently sucked his bottom lip then deepened his kiss for a second. When he pulled back, they were both breathing heavily. Smiling wickedly at Charlie, he brushed his hair back2 , "Hold that thought and I'll be back soon."

Severus started to get up, but a soft familiar voice stopped him in his tracks.

"Well, I knew Charlie was seeing someone. I just couldn't figure out whom." Mrs. Weasley came out of the shadows of the house, her face carefully masking her emotions. "So, how long have you two been involved?"

Charlie sighed, eyeing his Mother carefully. "For several months, Mum. But we're being careful about where we see each other."

"I would hope so. Severus, do you care for Charlie?"

"Yes, Molly, very much," replied Severus, softly.

"Good, because if you do hurt Charlie, you won't be able to hide from me. Now, did I hear correctly, Severus? You're going to help train?"

Severus softly replied. "Yes," still unable to tell by her attitude, whether or not she approved of his relationship with Charlie.

"Good. We need someone with practical experience from the other side teaching them their tricks. I'm going back inside. Charlie, thank you for clearing the garden. I'll see you both in the morning. Breakfast will be at seven." Mrs. Weasley turned and headed back inside the house.

Charlie let out a sigh of relief. "Well, that went better than I had hoped. No yelling, no crying. It looks like my day is ending better than I thought it was going to. Hurry up and get back. I feel like celebrating."

Severus leaned over and placed a light kiss on Charlie's mouth and Disapparated.

Charlie walked back inside and saw his mother at the sink. "Are you really okay with Severus and me?"

Molly wiped her hands on a towel. "I'm sure you realize what he's doing is dangerous and he could be discovered and killed?"

"Mum, I was fully aware of his situation before we got involved. But, you have told me before, you can't pick who you fall in love with. He's my soul-mate."

"Your soul-mate?" she asked, looking intently into her son's eyes. "Well, this will give you both something to hold onto until You-Know-Who is destroyed. Charlie, you're a grown man, and the only wish I ever had is for all my children to find their soul-mates. You have found yours it seems. So, you have my blessing. Just no more marks on your neck while you're living here, please. You have several impressionable brothers and a sister who watch you as a role model. Now, go upstairs. Severus will be back soon."

Charlie went upstairs to his room and closed his door. When he turned back around Severus was lying on the bed. Charlie smiled, laid down beside him, and rested his head on his shoulder.

Severus kissed the top of Charlie's head. "Where were you?"

Charlie sat back up a little so he could look into Severus' face. "Talking with Mum."

Severus tensed and his face filled with concern. He knew that Molly had been too accepting during their earlier conversation for it to have been real. "About us?"

"Relax. She gave us her blessing. Her only stipulation is that we behave in front of the teenagers. After all, you are their Potions professor. So, are you tired?"

Severus smiled wickedly up at Charlie. "Tired? No, definitely not. I've missed watching you sleep after we've made love." He cast a Silencing and Locking charm on the door and rolled on top of Charlie and ravished his mouth.

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Charlie was in the bathroom at dawn healing the damage done during the night with Severus. Heading downstairs after he had finished, he saw an unusually relaxed Severus talking with Arthur in the study. When they looked up at him, he smiled. "Morning, Dad. Is this a private conversation, or can I come in?"

"Come on in, Charlie. We were just discussing the training schedule."

Charlie walked over and sat on the arm on Severus' chair. "What were you discussing?"

Severus looked up at Charlie. "I was just telling Arthur that I think one-on-one training will be easier. That way Ron won't slow Percy down if he needs more review."

Arthur nodded, "I concur with your opinion, Severus. Even the twins learn differently from each other."

Severus leaned forward, anxiety showing on his face. "I'm concerned about the girls. I understand that they both want to be involved. As their teacher for the past several years, I feel they just don't have the ability to mentally handle being Aurors during the Battle.

"I have also been thinking of whom I could train. My schedule and Percy's could conflict, as I'm usually summoned in the evenings. So that leaves Ron or the twins for me to work with. I'm afraid that Ginny would die of fright if I tried to work with her on any defensive training.

"I prefer training Ron, until Harry returns. That way I can judge if Ron will be capable of assisting Harry in the Battle. It's my greatest desire to be at Harry's side during the Battle, but if I'm unable to get there, I have to be sure that whoever steps in to assist Harry can do so without a moment's hesitation. Harry will be comfortable with Ron assisting him, but I feel that Percy's level head may be the better choice."

Thomas came walking by the door.

Charlie, seeing him, called out, "Thomas, come in here for a second, please."

Thomas came back and stood at the door.

Charlie continued, "We're talking about the training schedule. What's your opinion on Ginny and Hermione being capable of performing as Aurors in the Battle?"

Thomas stood there and thought for a few seconds. "Well, I honestly don't know Hermione as well as Ginny, but I feel that Hermione does have the mental capability to handle the actual Battle. However, I don't think she'll be able to deal with the results afterwards, if she was to harm someone. Ginny, I believe while being a very brave young woman herself, would also have trouble afterwards. However, that being said, I've been thinking about their involvement myself. I was thinking about them participating in the surveillance. My grandfather taught me how to use the eyes of a bird to see something from a distance. It is a form of meditation that focuses the individual's power and you merge with a bird, like a falcon, and control his movements to observe something on the ground. It's complicated to learn, but it would make them useful and keep them out of harm's way."

Charlie smiled. "You may be new but you have stated what we all know for a fact. Ginny and Hermione, while they are developing into strong witches, aren't Auror material."

Severus interrupted, a puzzled look on his face. "Will they be able to talk to someone while they're in that state?"

Thomas nodded. "Yes, they'll have full use of their physical body. However, their actual focus will be in the bird. Someone will have to stay close to them to protect them during the Battle."

Severus smiled as he thought of the possibilities. "If they could learn this meditation, their use would be valuable. Albus would know the exact location of everyone before the Battle, giving the Aurors the exact position they needed to Apparate. The girls could even stay above to assist the Medi-Witches in locating injured Wizards to get them medical assistance quickly. Didn't you say that you could use falcons? They'd be less noticeable at night since they're a darker bird than an owl. How hard are they to train?"

Thomas moved to sit on the desk. "Actually I have two I could send for from home. They're both trained to the task, and it'll be easier than trying to train inexperienced birds with inexperienced witches. It took me years to properly train my birds."

"Perfect!" Mr. Weasley said, standing up. "Moody will be here soon. Let's eat some breakfast, and we'll fill him in when he arrives. I'm sure he'll agree with our decision. Thomas, write up your note and I'll take it to the International post on my way into the office this morning."

The teenagers came down one at a time. Percy followed behind a little blurry eyed from reading. While they were eating, Arthur gave them their instructions. "Ron, you'll work with Professor Snape. George and Fred, you two will alternate working with Moody and Tonks, depending on who's available. Percy, you'll be working with Charlie. Girls, you both will be working with Thomas on something different and promising. When you're all through eating, go up and get your wands and meet us out in the yard."

Charlie, Severus, Thomas and Arthur went outside and were soon joined by Moody. Arthur filled him in on the training schedule and asked his opinion of the girls.

Moody leaned on his cane and pondered the answer. "Arthur, while the girls are fine witches, you're absolutely correct, they're not Auror material. However, if they can learn this new spell it will certainly be useful for the Order. You would have made a fine Auror yourself, Arthur. Your review of the situation before you was perfect. The kids each have their own talents and by teaching them separately, we can better bring them out. Which will make training them for the upcoming Battle easier."

Moody turned his head to focus on Thomas with his normal eye. His magical eye had already been looking at Thomas standing to the side. "Thomas, I'd like to learn the Invisibility Spell that I've heard about from Albus. You wouldn't consider moving here and becoming an Auror? Your knowledge will be extremely useful."

Thomas shook his head. "I have family waiting for me in the States."

"Well consider consulting as an instructor. I have some considerable pull in the Auror department and could set up a schedule for you so you could go home. Think about it."

The teenagers came out of the house and lined up in front of the garden. Ron was trying rather poorly to hide his discomfort at the thought of having to train with Severus.

Moody looked at the twins. "Which one of you is going to be first?"

George piped up, "Me, sir."

"Come on then and follow me." Moody walked away, heading toward the woods on the far side of the house. Fred headed into the shop.

Thomas looked at Ron. "Ron, is it okay if I borrow your little owl? I want to show the girls what they're going to be learning."

Ron, momentarily distracted, nodded his head, "Huh, you mean Pig? Sure, just don't hurt him. He was a gift from Harry's godfather."

"I promise you that the little guy will be quite safe."

Severus, upon hearing Ron mention Harry's godfather, sneered. "Ron, we'll be working over at the side of the house, away from the others so you won't hurt anyone." He led Ron over to the side of the house where the swing was located.

Arthur pulled Percy to the side. "Percy, are you sure you're up for this? We have other things you can do in the Order."

Percy shook his head, "Thanks, Dad, for offering me a way out. I want to fight. I need to, for Bill."

Arthur pulled his son in for a hug, "Your decision. I just wanted to make certain you were sure."

Thomas and Charlie quickly showed Percy, Hermione, and Ginny the Invisibility Spell and how to reverse it.

After the girls had shown they could perform the spell, Thomas took them to the Owlery, and retrieved Pig.

Percy and Charlie spent the morning going over the basic offensive hexes. Occasionally they would notice sparks coming from the woods.

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After an hour of reviewing basic defensive hexes, Severus sat down on the swing and invited Ron to sit down beside him. Severus looked down at the scowling youth and realized he needed to reach out to Ron if he was going to make any progress.

He sighed. "Ron you're going to have to let go of this hatred and distrust you have for me in order for us to work together. You have the most difficult thing to learn. It'll be my decision on who will be Harry's backup in the Battle. If I feel you can't handle the complexity of the situation then I'll have to assign someone else to be Harry's second. You know him better than anyone else in the Order and you're the natural choice. However, if you're distracted with anger towards me, and can't learn what you need to, then I'll pick someone else. It's my desire to be at Harry's side to help defeat Voldemort, but when his followers realize that I've betrayed them, I might not be able to. You'll have to step up and assist Harry. It's a two-person task, and Harry will have to have complete faith in his partner. You have to be able to step up with confidence. Do you understand what I'm saying?"

Ron sat there for a few seconds staring at the ground. "Yes, sir. I'm sorry for being such a prat. I realize that this is serious and I'll do my best to control my feelings towards you. I know you're only trying to do what is best for the Order, and I want to do all that I can to help Harry."

He cleared his voice and looked up at Severus. "Where do we start?"

Severus smiled, and Ron's eyes opened wide in shock. "I don't think I have ever seen you smile before, sir."

Severus chuckled softly at Ron's amazement. "Well, it has been a while since I've had a reason to. But we're not at Hogwarts, so you don't have to call me, Sir or Professor. Severus will do while we're working here. I believe it will help you become more comfortable with me. Whatever you may think, I do want you to succeed. You have a natural ability to lead when needed. I've seen you take charge during the practices of your defense club you three formed, and you're quite impressive."

"Thanks, but I'm afraid I'll slip when school starts, so I'll just keep calling you Professor Snape."

Severus was pleased at the difference in Ron since they had their talk. Ron's confidence grew stronger as the morning went on, and the wall of resistance Severus had against letting Ron be the backup slowly started to crumble down.

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After they had retrieved the owl, Thomas led the girls down towards the pond.

Hermione was carrying Ron's owl, Pig, in a cage. Ginny was walking beside Thomas.

Thomas cleared his throat nervously and spoke softly. "I never got to ask you who that young gentleman was last night who had his hands all over you. Was he an old boyfriend?"

Hermione, hearing the question, realized they needed a couple of minutes of privacy and started cooing to Pig. She knew that Pig could make enough noise to give the other two a private conversation.

Ginny bit back a smile. "No, he was just a friend. Didn't you tell me the other day I should find someone my own age?" She was very much aware of his reaction to seeing her with someone else at the party. And was quite pleased her plan was working so well.

"I can't believe my own words are coming back to bite me in the ass so quickly, but yes I did."

"Then, what's the problem?"

Thomas ran a hand through his hair in frustration. "The problem is, when I saw his arm around you, I hated it. I realized quickly last night I couldn't stand seeing you with someone else. Where I come from, our age difference is a big issue. So, I'm between a rock and a hard place. Listen, I want to talk to you later on in private. Hermione doesn't have much time left this morning, and this could take longer than a few minutes."

They sat down and Thomas started reviewing the process on what they were going to learn, and the role they may be playing in the Battle. He went into detail on how the meditation worked and started teaching them.

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They all made their way back to the house for lunch. Charlie watched with amusement as Severus came walking up with Ron, laughing at a comment Ron had made.

Percy's mouth dropped open when he saw his former Potions professor laughing. "Uh oh, this isn't good. Did Ron do an Unforgivable Curse on Professor Snape?"

Charlie snorted. "No, Sev is just relaxed and being himself."

"Just being himself? I honestly thought Professor Snape didn't have the required muscles to laugh."

Charlie smacked his brother up side his head, causing Percy to scowl. "Be nice. We'll talk later."

Charlie looked at Severus, trying to keep his feelings toward him from showing with his brothers around. "So, training is going well, I see."

Severus looked at Ron. "Yes, after we had a long talk. Ron is doing better than I thought he would. I still have reservations, but we'll see."

Severus looked back at Charlie and smiled nervously. "Care to take a walk before we eat? I have something I'd like to discuss with you, in private."

"Sure. Percy, make sure Mum knows we'll be inside in a couple of minutes. We'll start back up again after Hermione leaves."

They passed George running out of the woods, his ears smoking. He glared at the two men when he passed them, but didn't stop.

They saw Moody coming out of the woods. Severus and Charlie stopped when they were together. "How did George do this morning?"

"Pretty well," Moody cackled, "I was tagging his arse with hexes, but he got quicker at blocking as the morning went on. The smoke is coming out of his ears more slowly now. I'll have to be cleverer with Fred."

Charlie laughed. "Oh, that's why his ears were smoking. Just be warned, even if the twins aren't around each other, they're still communicating. Go on and get something to eat. Severus and I will be inside in a couple of minutes."

Severus and Charlie walked into the woods, as Moody's magical eye watched through the back of his head. When they were out of sight of the house, Charlie stopped and looked at Severus, puzzled when he saw him fidgeting with his robes.

"What did you want to talk about?" Charlie asked, reaching up to tuck a strand of Severus' hair behind his ear.

Severus blushed, causing Charlie to be even more confused, and reached into his pocket. "I had something I wanted to ask you. I want you to know how serious I am about us. It's a lot to ask, with everything up in the air. If you need some time to think about it, I'll understand." He pulled his hand out his robes and held up a small black box and opened it. "Charlie, will you accept my Promise ring and wear it until we can openly declare our love?"

Charlie stared down at the ring. He looked back up into Severus' face, tears swimming in his eyes. "Severus, are you sure?"

Severus swallowed. "Yes, I am. I don't want us going into the Battle without you knowing that I'll fight to the end to come out alive. For the first time in my life, I feel alive, and it's because I'm with you."

Charlie wiped his eyes, completely at a loss for a minute. However, he knew immediately that this was right. "Yes, Severus, I'll accept your ring. I'm sorry I don't have one to give you."

Severus smiled as he slipped the ring on Charlie's finger. "You're giving me something better than a piece of gold, Charlie. You're giving me a family. A loving family, for the first time in my life. That's if, of course, they will accept me in your life."

Severus lifted Charlie's hand and kissed the ring that he had just placed on his finger. When he looked back up, his face was solemn. "I, Severus Snape, from this day forward promise my heart to you. I will allow no one else to take what I have freely given to you. You are my heart and salvation. Without you, I'm lost."

Charlie felt the ring turn warm at Severus' words. He reached up to Severus' face and gently kissed him. They walked back towards the house, but were unable to hold back their smiles when they looked at each other.

They walked in just as Hermione came into the kitchen carrying her bag. She handed the parchment she was holding in her hand to Severus. "I had completed my Potions assignment before the summer work was cancelled, Professor Snape. Do you still want it?"

Severus reviewed the parchment, and with his dark eyes twinkling, tore the paper in half. Hermione eyes widen at the sight of all her work being destroyed. "Relax, Miss. Granger. A++."

Ron piped up, "Harry's assignment is up in our room, Professor, and he said before he left that it was done."

Severus looked at Ron. "Very well, tell Harry he has an A. What about you, Ginny?" he asked, looking down at the young girl who was returning to sit at the table. Of all Charlie's siblings, he knew she was the closest to him, and he desperately wanted her to not be frightened of him anymore.

"Me?" she squeaked. "I have it done, but I haven't had time to recheck my answers."

Severus nodded, frowning slightly at the fright Ginny had on her face when she was talking to him. "Very well, Ginny. B+ for your honesty."

Severus turned back to Hermione. "Miss Granger, I heard that you're going to Greece for holiday, is that correct?"

"Yes, sir," she answered, puzzled that Snape was asking her a personal question.

"If you get a chance, could you please get me some potion ingredients? I'll give you directions to the shop. Ask for Roman, I have an account there. I'll give you extra credit for you effort. It'll allow me to stay here and work with Ron."

"I'll be honoured to," beamed Hermione.

"Thank you, Miss Granger, and congratulations."

Hermione looked at Severus, completely confused about why he was congratulating her. "Excuse me, sir, congratulations for what?"

Severus, startled at his own slip, laughed and smiled. He couldn't remember the last time he had ever revealed a secret he was entrusted with. However, when he saw Charlie's eyes twinkling with amusement, he realized that the previous few minutes of joy had pleasantly fogged his mind. "Well I have cocked up, it seems. You have been named Head Girl for your seventh, and final year at Hogwarts."

Ginny jumped up to give Hermione a hug. Ron let out a yell, picked Hermione up, and twirled her around. "I knew you'd make Head Girl, Hermione."

Hermione held onto Ron and looked around at all the smiling faces. "Thank you all. I'm afraid I'm a bit speechless."

Arthur came walking in. "Did I miss something?"

Ron, still holding onto Hermione, smiled at his father. "Hermione just found out she's Head Girl."

"Congratulations, dear. Your parents will be thrilled. I hate to rain on this celebration, but are you ready to go? I promised your parents to have you back at the Leaky Cauldron by two o'clock."

Ron kissed Hermione on the forehead. "Have fun. I'll tell Harry you said goodbye. But I'll wait until you come back before I tell him you're Head Girl. He'd want to hear that from you."

Hermione hugged Ginny and Mrs. Weasley, then picked up her bag. She took a pinch of Floo powder and with a final smile at the Weasleys threw it into the fire. She stepped in and firmly said, "Leaky Cauldron."

Everyone headed back outside. George practically ran to the shop as he heartily wished Fred good luck. Fred followed Moody reluctantly into the woods. Ginny and Thomas headed back towards the pond. Severus, eating the remaining half of a sandwich while he walked, followed Ron back to the side of the house.

Charlie and Percy walked into the garden. Percy turned to stand in front of Charlie and caught the glint of gold on Charlie's hand, as he placed the last bite of his sandwich in his mouth. He reached out and grabbed Charlie's hand. "Is that what I think it is?" He looked carefully at the ring. "Bloody hell, it is. You're wearing a Promise ring."

He looked up at his brother, who was smiling with delight at his reaction. "Who is it, when did this happen, and when can I meet her?"

Charlie laughed. "Okay, one question at a time. When did it happen? Today. When can you meet him? You have known him for years. Finally who? Well you are the smartest Weasley, so you tell me."

Percy sat down on the bench, thinking through Charlie's answers. "You said you got the ring today. I'm almost certain that the ring wasn't on your hand this morning." Slowly Percy widened his eyes, as he figured out who. "You said I have known him for years. And you did say him. Professor Snape?"

"See, I said you were the smartest Weasley. Now, Mum and Dad don't know about the ring yet and for obvious reasons I can't tell anyone but family. What do you think?" he asked, smiling with delight at having Percy's unquestioned acceptance of his choice.

"A little blown away by the who, but if you're happy then yes, I'm okay with this." Percy stood back up and brushed his clothes off. "What are you going to be showing me this afternoon, besides your fancy ring?"

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Thomas and Ginny were sitting across from each other on the ground. Ginny had her eyes closed and was concentrating on doing the chant correctly and picturing Pig in her mind. Suddenly she felt herself starting to float. She jumped when she could suddenly see Thomas through the bars of the cage. With her eyes still closed she gasped, "Thomas, I think I did it. I can see you through the cage bars."

Thomas, stunned at what she just told him, asked, "How are you feeling?"

"A little light-headed to be honest."

"Okay, you need to reverse the charm. I can't believe you just did the merge. Repeat after me."

Ginny started repeating the reversal and felt herself floating again. When she opened her eyes, the world started spinning around her. Thomas moved to squat directly in front of her. "Ginny, darling, close your eyes. Focus on my voice until it passes."

When he was sure she had settled down, he sighed. "Ginny, open your eyes." When Ginny looked up at him, she could see the amazement and awe in his face. "Ginny, you're amazing. I've never seen anyone do this on the first try. I believe that this is enough for the day. Do you want to go back to the house?"

Ginny shook her head. "Not yet. Let's take a walk."

Thomas helped her up, and released Pig from the cage. Holding her by the arm, he walked her towards the edge of the woods, out of the sun. "Are you okay?"

"Honestly, I'm fine now."

They walked side by side into the woods. They kept walking until the reached the stream that fed the pond.

Ginny looked up at Thomas. "Are you ready to finish that talk?"

"Yes, let's sit over here. I'm still not sure you have recovered enough yet."

They sat down on a log and a rock that were facing each other. "Okay, Thomas, now please tell me about this rock and hard place you're in."

Thomas laughed. "Ginny, darling, you are the most amazing young woman that I've ever met. You're so different from anyone that I've ever known. I'm so attracted to you that it takes my breath away. I'm not going to fight what I'm beginning to believe is my destiny with you. But for both our sakes, I want to take this slow. If we both decide that we're meant to be together, I'll need to talk to your parents. You still have two years of school left. Damn, darling, I've been doing all the talking, do you even want to see where this could go with me?"

Ginny, her eyes filling up with tears, launched herself off the rock into Thomas' arms and knocked him backwards onto the ground. She lay stretched out on top of him and looked into his dark brown eyes and smiled. "Yes."

Thomas pulled Ginny tightly to him and crushed his mouth to hers. Their kiss quickly turned passionate. Thomas rolled Ginny off him so she couldn't feel his arousal. Fingering Ginny's red hair, he sighed, "Darling, you're going to be the death of me."

Ginny smiled at him and licked her bottom lip. When Thomas saw her pink tongue come out, he rolled Ginny onto her back and kissed her again. She opened her mouth with a moan, and he deepened the kiss. Thomas, trying hard not to let his hands wander, held her face. He broke the kiss and took a deep breath, resting his forehead to hers. "Darling, this isn't slow. Let's go back to the house. I don't think I can behave when we're alone. You tempt me too much."

Thomas stood up and pulled Ginny with him. He carefully brushed her off, and kissed her one last time. They walked back out of the woods towards the pond to pick up the discarded cage. He put his arm around Ginny's shoulders and walked her towards the house. Mrs. Weasley watched through a window as her daughter came back toward the house, her face glowing with happiness.

Mrs. Weasley was wiping her hands dry when they came into the house. "Finished early, I see."

Thomas walked to the stove and picked up a cup, filled it with coffee and went to sit down beside Ginny. "Molly, your daughter is amazing."

"That I know. But, tell me why you think she is?" she asked, suspiciously.

Before he could answer they heard a thud and Mr. Weasley came out of the fireplace holding a very frightened cat. Ginny jumped up to take the cat from his battered arms. "Crookshanks, it's okay." She spoke softly to the cat and rubbed his ears to calm him. She looked up at her father. "How did you end up with Hermione's cat?"

Mr. Weasley sat down at the table and laughed. "It seems that four legged creature doesn't appreciate being boarded. I told the Grangers that we would keep him while they're gone. Are you finished for the day?"

Ginny sat back down beside of Thomas, still holding the cat. Thomas reached over to pet the cat. "I was just starting to tell Molly how amazing your daughter is. I honestly didn't think we would be this far on the first day so I'm going to have to revise my training schedule with her."

Ginny, rubbing her face in Crookshanks neck, looked from Thomas to her father. "But I still don't understand, how is what I'm learning going to help in the Battle?"

Thomas pulled his hand back from the cat. "When you're able to control a bird, you can fly over and give us position details before the Battle begins. And while the Battle is going on, you can give locations to the Medi-Witches to get injured Wizards out of the area."

Ginny sat there for a minute and thought through everything that Thomas said. "So, Hermione and I won't be in the actual Battle?" she asked, her eyes flashing.

Arthur, seeing his daughter's temper starting to rise, spoke softly. "Ginny, the Battle is going to be hard. Do you honestly believe you can handle fighting and maybe taking someone's life?"

Ginny slowly shook her head. "I know that I couldn't take someone's life. So, I guess this is the best thing I can do. But Pig is so small and hyper, how is he going to be of much help?"

Thomas, relieved that Ginny wasn't going to argue their decision, sighed. "I've sent for my trained falcons for you and Hermione to use. By the time Hermione gets back, you should be able to merge with my bird and control it with ease."

Ginny put the now purring cat down and stood up. "Mum, let me go clean up and I'll help with dinner."

When she came back down, Severus and Ron were walking in. "Ron, how did your training go?"

Severus, anxious to get Ginny accustomed to having him around, answered. "Ron is actually better at this than I first thought. How did your training go today, Ginny?"

"F.. Fine, sir."

Thomas, who was still sitting in the kitchen, talking quietly with Arthur spoke up, "She did better than fine, Severus. She was able to see through Ron's little owl's eyes on her first attempt at the merge."

Surprised, Molly turned around to look at Thomas. "You didn't tell me that when you came in. The only thing you said was that she was amazing." She looked at her daughter. "No wonder you were so happy when you came in, love."

Severus, who was in shock at the news, looked back at Ginny. "Your first try. Well, you must be just like your brother, Charlie. He has a way with animals too."

Charlie came walking in with Percy behind him. "Okay, I'm starting to get paranoid. Every time I enter a room lately, someone is saying my name. Who's like me?"

Mrs. Weasley chuckled. "Your sister, that's who. Severus was saying Ginny seems to have your gift with animals. Thomas said she really picked up on her training this afternoon."

Charlie walked over and hugged Ginny. "See, this is why you're my favourite sister. You're just like me."

Ginny was smiling as she pulled away and hit her brother in the stomach. "I'm your only sister, blockhead."

Severus looked at Charlie. "Can you get into a dragon's mind?"

"Well, no. I can calm them. They trust me. Bill could do it too. But actually get into their minds; no I didn't know there was a way. And honestly I'm concerned that if I try Thomas' merge I'd piss them off and endanger the crew. They have such simple minds, and their first instinct is to attacked when startled."

Severus looked back at Ginny. "Do you know how rare that gift is? It's genetic usually, I only know of one other person who was the capability of calming an animal down."

Ron piped up, "It's Hagrid. Isn't it?"

Severus nodded.

"But what about Harry? He's a Parselmouth," asked Ginny.

Severus shook his head. "Harry's gift was a magical transfer when Voldemort lost his power. I don't think being a Parselmouth runs in the Potter family."

"Harry can speak to snakes?" Thomas asked, puzzled.

"Yes, that particular talent was discovered his second year at school."

The conversation was interrupted when Fred, being supported by George, came in.

Mrs. Weasley came rushing over. "Fred, what happened?"

George snorted his disgust. "Mad Eye Moody is what happened. He walked up to Fred all nice and chummy, but when Fred turned his back, he hexed him. Just to remind us to never let our guard down."

Mrs. Weasley glared at her husband. "Arthur...."

"I know, love. I'll talk to him. But he does have a point. He's just really old fashioned when it comes to Auror training. Tonks will be here tomorrow working with the twins."

Severus grabbed his arm. "Molly, if you'll excuse me?" He walked back out the door and Disapparated.

Charlie frowned as Severus left the room. He looked down at his hand, puzzled when he felt the ring grow cold. He realized that Severus had shut off all emotion to answer the summons.

"Everyone, get out of my kitchen so that Ginny and I can prepare dinner," ordered Mrs. Weasley, trying to hide her concern when she saw Charlie's face as Severus left.

****************************************************************

After dinner Thomas walked outside and sat out in the garden. Ginny came out after she had finished cleaning up. "Come swing with me."

Thomas stood up and took Ginny's hand and walked with her to the swing. He sat down and pulled her onto his lap. They sat there watching the sunset, talking quietly and kissing.

Charlie, realizing Thomas and Ginny weren't in the house, walked out the front door. Walking around the side of the house, he saw his sister sitting on Thomas' lap. He stood there for a few seconds taking in the glow on her face and slightly swollen mouth. Slowly backing up, he walked back into the house and up the stairs, to wait for Ginny in her room.

A little while later she came in humming and closed the door. Charlie's heart melted at the look on her face. She opened her eyes and jumped when she saw Charlie sitting on her bed. "Things are better between you and Thomas, I see." He had to bite back a laugh at the guilty look on her face.

"Yes, things are better. But we're taking it slow."

"Slow, huh? Have you seen a mirror?"

Ginny walked to her makeup table and peered at the mirror. Blushing deeply when she saw her kiss-swollen mouth, she muttered, "Oh dear. Thank goodness Mum didn't see me."

Charlie laughed and patted the bed. "Come here, little Sis. It appears you need to learn the Healing Charm." He showed her the steps and watched as she made herself normal again.

"Thanks for being so great, Charlie. If one of the others had seen this, Mum would have found out."

"Listen, if Mum asks, I can't lie," Charlie said, tugging her hair.

"I wouldn't ask you to lie, Charlie. I just want a little time to sort things out before Mum explodes."

Charlie took Ginny's hand. "You got it. Just remember, I'm here if you want to talk."

When she felt something on Charlie's hand, she looked down. "Nice ring. When did you get it?"

Charlie looked down at the band that was still cold on his finger. "Thank you. I was given it today. It's a Promise ring."

Ginny held up Charlie's hand to take a closer look. "I've heard the girls at school talk about them but I've never seen one. Who gave it to you?"

"Sev."

Ginny dropped Charlie's hand, and looked at him in shock. "Professor Snape?"

"Yes."

Ginny shook her head, disbelief showing in her eyes. "Are you sure, Charlie? He's so cold natured."

"Ginny, he's not cold natured. Think about how he was acting at lunch. Was the man downstairs today cold? He knows Voldemort and his followers better than anyone. He's genuinely concerned about what could happen to Harry. He loves me and I him. Will you, please, for me, try to get to know him before school starts and he has to put his mask back on?"

"Okay, I'll try Charlie. But if he isn't really cold, he puts on an excellent act at Hogwarts."

Charlie hugged his sister, wished her goodnight, and went up to his room. Getting undressed, he climbed into bed alone. In the middle of the night he felt the ring warming up and the bed sag as Severus climbed into bed. Charlie rolled over and gathered his lover in his arms. "Rough night?"

"Yes. It seems that Draco Malfoy's mother has died mysteriously, and the young man has gone or been taken into hiding."

"Do you think he's in danger?"

"I don't know. The boy has been hard to read lately. Especially since his father was sent away." He gave Charlie a quick kiss. "What did you do tonight?"

"Percy and Ginny both saw the ring and they know about us."

His heart stopped for a brief second when he heard her name. Sitting up, he looked down at Charlie. "How did she take it?"

"She was concerned, because she loves me, but she loves me so she accepts my decision. So, she's okay. Just don't go into professor mode in front of her while you're here, it really freaks her out."

Severus leaned down and kissed Charlie gently on the lips. "I'll do my best." He lay back down. "Let's get some sleep. I don't need your brother catching me unaware with a hex because I haven't had any sleep tonight."

Charlie lay and listened as Severus fell asleep. When he saw Severus' face relax, he threw up a Locking Charm and looked at the ring on his finger. He pondered the surge of warmth now that Severus had returned. He lay there a long time before sleep finally returned.

****************************************************************

The next morning Charlie came back in the bedroom after showering. He saw Severus stirring as he opened the wardrobe. "Good morning, lazy bones. Time to get up."

Severus stretched and got up. He walked towards Charlie, who was wrapped only in a towel around his waist. Wrapping his arm around him, he inhaled. "Mmm, you smell good." He kissed him on the shoulder and turned him around. Pulling Charlie to him, he kissed him full on the mouth. Charlie moaned and Sev slipped his tongue in, roughly ravishing Charlie's mouth. Severus' hands slid down, quickly removed the towel, and pulled Charlie to him so that they were standing chest-to-chest, thigh-to-thigh, and skin-to-skin.

Charlie broke the kiss, moaning. "Severus."

Severus smiled wickedly at Charlie. "Thank you for the wake up. I think I'll go take a shower." He placed another hard kiss on Charlie's mouth and picked up the discarded towel. Wrapping it around him as he headed out the door.

Charlie growled at Severus' retreating back. "Oh, I'll deal with you later, you tease."

Charlie dressed and walked downstairs. Seeing Percy dressed for work and finishing his coffee, Charlie grabbed a cup of coffee and sat down across from him. "Are you going to work?"

"Yes, I need to review the personnel files to make sure no one else has slipped in. Tonks is probably going to be late. Something happened at the Malfoy's."

"Um," replied Charlie, taking a sip of coffee. "Severus mentioned that when he finally came in last night."

Ron came shuffling in. "Morning," he said, yawning. "Any word from Harry?"

Charlie shook his head. "Not yet."

Ginny came in behind Ron. "Where's Mum?"

Percy stood up, wiping is mouth. "Mum left this morning going to Diagon Alley. She said she had errands she needed to run. See you later, Gin." Percy placed a kiss on his sister's forehead and Disapparated.

Thomas came walking in and headed straight for the coffee. "So, what's the game plan today?" he asked, spying Charlie.

"You go work with Ginny. I'll start with George. Severus should be down in a few minutes to work with Ron again."

Ron, who was fixing a sandwich, turned to his brother. "Professor Snape is already here?"

Pouring another cup of coffee, Charlie replied cautiously, "Yes, he crashed in my room last night."

Fred and George came walking in heading straight towards the coffee. George looked at his brother holding a cup. "Coffee, need coffee. Please tell me Mad Eye Moody isn't here today."

"No, you're safe today. You have me until Tonks gets here."

George took a drink and sighed with relief at the news Moody wasn't coming.

Thomas snitched a piece of bacon from Ginny's plate, earning a glare and a pop on his hand. Charlie watched the couple with an amused look on his face.

Ginny quickly finished her breakfast and caught Thomas' eye. "I'll be ready to start in just a few minutes, Thomas."

She quickly freshened up and walked back out of her room. Seeing Severus on the stairs, she called out to him. "Professor Snape, could I have a word with you?"

Severus turned around; surprised Ginny was initiating a conversation with him. "We could exchange several words if you like, and since we aren't in school, please call me Severus," he said, smiling up at her. Trying his best to be as pleasant as possible.

"Okay, Prof...Severus. I saw the ring you gave Charlie."

Severus' eyebrow went up. He wasn't expecting this conversation from Ginny.

"Do you love my brother?" Ginny asked, sitting down on the stairs.

Severus, still a little shocked, sat down below her. "Yes, I do."

"This isn't a fling for you?"

Severus took Ginny's smooth hand in his. "I would marry him today, if I could."

"Good, I just wanted to make sure. If you hurt Charlie you'll have to deal with me. Welcome to the family." She leaned over and hugged a surprised Severus.

"T...thank you, Ginny. Knowing how close you and Charlie are, your approval means a lot to me personally. But just remember when school starts I have to go back to my Professor persona. I won't like what I may have to do, but I can't just start being nice to you there. However, I will not schedule your detention with me when someone else is having theirs, so we can talk. I hope you understand."

Ginny nodded, standing up. "Right. Outside this house, I'm terrified of you." She tilted her head to look up at Severus, who was now standing. "But just so you know, it's really going to be hard. Especially since I know what a teddy bear you are now."

Severus frowned, the look less frightening due to the fact his eyes were twinkling. "I'm not a teddy bear."

"Uh huh. I bet you get all weak kneed when you see Charlie, don't you?" Ginny asked, her eyes sparkling with laughter.

Severus shook his head and laughed. "I'm in so much trouble when school starts, aren't I?" He draped his arm over Ginny's shoulders. "Come on, Miss Weasley, let's go eat."

Severus and Ginny walked into the kitchen talking quietly. Charlie's heart filled when he saw Severus and Ginny together and Ginny didn't appear frightened in his presence.

Thomas, who had been waiting for Ginny, felt a flickered of jealousy for a second when he saw Severus' arm around Ginny's shoulders.

Ginny looked toward Thomas, her feelings towards him showing in her eyes, "Ready to start, Thomas?"

"Ready, darling."

They walked out the door, hand in hand, and headed for the Owlery.

Ron looked at Severus, who was dressed in Muggle jeans, black of course, and a t-shirt. "Wow, Professor Snape, I don't think I've ever seen you out of your robes before. Let me get dressed and I'll be ready to work."

George looked at Charlie, who was standing at the sink cleaning up the breakfast dishes. "Charlie, I'll be out in the shop showing Fred the orders we got in late yesterday. Come get me when you're ready to start."

"Right."

Severus poured himself a cup of coffee. "Is something going on with your sister and Thomas?" he asked softly.

Charlie looked around to make sure they were alone. "Yes, there is. Mum doesn't know and they're taking it slow." Charlie handed Severus the drying towel. "Make yourself useful."

Severus helped Charlie quickly clean the kitchen. Ron came down and Severus took him outside to begin their training for the day.

Charlie walked out to the shop. "You ready to start, George?"

George handed the orders he was holding to Fred, grabbed his wand and followed Charlie back outside. They worked for a couple of hours until Tonks arrived to take over.

Charlie walked back inside the house and saw his mum putting up supplies. "Mum, there's something I wanted to tell you yesterday, but there were too many people around."

Mrs. Weasley turned to look at her son. "What is it, dear?"

Charlie sat down at the table and Mrs. Weasley sat across from him. "First, does Dad know about Severus and me?"

"Yes, dear. I told him the same night I found out."

"Look Mum, I don't know how to tell you this, but Severus gave me a Promise ring yesterday."

Mrs. Weasley took Charlie's hand and looked at the ring for a minute. She then looked back up with tears in her eyes. "He really does love you then."

Charlie squeezed his Mum's hand. "Yes, Mum, he does and I love him."

"Well then, it looks like I really do get to start planning a wedding."

"Mum, you know we can't do anything until after everything settles."

Mrs. Weasley laughed, brushing away her tears. "Yes, but it gives me something to look forward to until then. I suppose I need to start working on lunch. Will you please tell everyone that I'll have lunch ready in about an hour?" she asked, getting up and heading to the stove.

Immediately, Charlie stood and walked up behind his mum. Placing his arms around her waist, he kissed the top of her head. "Thanks, Mum, for supporting me."

He went outside and saw Tonks and George were still working in the garden. "George. Tonks. Mum just said lunch would be ready in about an hour."

Charlie then stuck his head into the shop. "Fred, lunch will be ready in about an hour."

Fred looked up distracted. "Huh? Lunch...Is Mum home?"

"Yes, she is. Lunch in about an hour."

"Okay."

Charlie headed down to the pond to tell Thomas and Ginny. Ginny had her eyes closed and Thomas was holding Pig.

"Okay, darling, talk to Pig and calm him down. Once he gets used to you entering his mind he won't be so excited," Thomas said, talking low.

Ginny started cooing to Pig and he calmed down. When she was sure he was calm, she merged.

"Good. Now think about his wings and have him spread them."

Charlie sat down beside Thomas, amazed at what he was seeing. Thomas put his finger to his lips for Charlie to be quiet. Charlie watched fascinated when Pig stuck his wings straight out. Thomas grinned at Charlie, quite pleased at Ginny's ability. "You're doing great, darling. Now, start the reversal."

Ginny quickly performed the reversal and opened her eyes slowly. "Did I do it?"

Charlie smiled. "You sure did. I've never seen that bird so calm. That was fantastic."

Thomas, who was just closing the cage back, smiled from ear to ear. "She should be flying by the end of the week with the progress she's making."

Charlie stood up. "Mum wanted me to let you two know that lunch will be ready in about an hour. I need to go tell Sev and Ron."

Charlie headed back up towards the house and noticed that Severus and Ron were sitting in the swing talking intently. Severus looked up when he heard his approach. "Taking a break, Sev?"

"No, just giving Ron a personality profile of the Death Eaters so he can think on his toes. What are you up to?"

"Mum said lunch would be ready soon."

"All right, this is a good place to take a break. Ron, we'll pick back up after lunch."

Ron stood up from the swing and stretched. "Okay, I'll go see if Mum needs any help."

After Ron had walked off, Severus looked up at Charlie. "I saw you go down to the pond. How's Ginny doing?"

Charlie sank down onto the swing beside Severus. "Fantastic. I saw her stick out the owl's wings. Thomas said she should be flying by the end of the week."

They watched as the couple came walking up from the pond. When they were out of sight, Charlie snuggled into Severus side. "Are you hungry?"

Severus smiled wickedly as he remembered their encounter that morning. "Not for food."

They Apparated into their bedroom and placed Silencing and Locking Charms on the door. Around an hour later, they came downstairs, having worked up a ravenous appetite.

Ron was sitting at the table talking with Tonks and his Mum. He looked toward them curiously. "Where have you two been?"

Charlie smiled at Severus. "Talking strategy." Charlie handed Severus a plate of food Mrs. Weasley had left for them on the stove, grabbed silverware, and sat down to eat.

"Where are the twins?" Charlie asked, between bites.

Tonks laughed, "They ran out of here about thirty minutes ago. It seems that their business is doing quite well."

Severus snorted, causing Tonks and Ron to look at him, startled. "Yes, it appears that their talent for pranks, while in school, has become a legitimate business."

Ron, who was still watching Severus intently because of his recent strange behaviour, stood up. "Severus, I'll be outside in the shop talking to the twins. Come get me when you're ready to begin again."

Charlie and Severus quickly finished their lunch and placed their dishes in the sink.

Mrs. Weasley touched Severus' arm lightly. "Can I have a word with you before you go outside?"

Charlie looked at his Mum puzzled, then to Tonks. "Come on Tonks, I'll help you drag Fred out for practice." The two headed outside to the shop.

Mrs. Weasley sat down at the table and Severus sat back down across from her. "Molly, what do you want to talk about?"

"I've seen the ring you've given Charlie. I know from that action alone that you do love Charlie. I have discussed this situation with Arthur. I just wanted you to know, you have our blessing. I've known you for years, Severus. You have never allowed anyone to get close to you. For you to make this type of commitment to Charlie says volumes."

Surprised and pleased, he smiled. "Thank you, Molly. This means a lot, to the both of us, to have your acceptance."

"You're welcome, Severus. Now, onto the other issue, have you heard from Harry?"

"I haven't seen or heard from Harry since I left him on Saturday night."

"How was he when you left him?"

"Still in shock for the most part."

"Did you leave him alone?"

Severus shook his head. "No, we left him with a house-elf named Dobby."

"Will you let me know when you hear from him?"

"I will let you know the very minute I'm informed. But don't worry about his safety. Albus placed protection wards around the house. He's quite safe as long as he stays inside the house. As for his mental status, you know he's a strong willed young man. He should be fine in a day or so." Severus stood up, squeezed Molly's hand, and walked outside to the shop to retrieve Ron for the afternoon training.

He walked to the shop door, leaned against the doorframe, and watched as Charlie and Ron threw Exploding Snaps. It was obvious for anyone familiar with them that they had been modified. When they exploded, a dragon, goblin, and a variety of other magical creatures appeared. "Oh how wonderful, something new to torture me at school with. What on earth did I ever do to you two to deserve this punishment?"

Fred and George looked at each other then back to Severus. "Detention," they said in unison.

Fred laughed at the look on Severus' face. "Relax, we both know we deserved it. And don't worry; these won't be available until after the school year starts. There are still bugs that need to be worked out before we can start production on them."

Severus bowed his head, "Thank you."

Ron put down the pack he was holding and headed out the door. "Come on, Professor Snape, let's get started."

Fred looked at Tonks, who was talking quietly with Charlie. "Okay, Tonks, I'm ready to get started if you are."

Charlie walked out of the shop behind Fred and Tonks. He saw his mum peering through a window at Ginny down at the pond with Thomas. Charlie, not wanting to see his sister getting into trouble, headed down to them.

Thomas and Ginny were laughing when Charlie came walking up and sat down beside Thomas. Ginny pulled a face at him.

"Hey, don't give me that face. I'm being a good brother by letting you know that Mum is watching you two," he said, laughing at the blush that was creeping onto her face.

"Thanks for the warning, Charlie."

Thomas looked at Charlie, surprised. "You know about your sister and me?"

Charlie shrugged his shoulders. "Yes. However, I don't think I'll ever be okay with Ginny growing up, but she is. Just as long as you don't hurt her, we'll get along just fine."

"I won't hurt her, Charlie. That's a promise."

Thomas looked at Ginny, relieved. "Okay, darling, are you ready to get started again this afternoon?"

Ginny closed her eyes and started the merge. Charlie sat silently watching as Ginny worked. A few minutes later, she nodded her head and Thomas retrieved Pig back out of the cage.

"Okay, Ginny spread his wings."

Ginny visualized the bird spreading his wings, and Pig responded.

"You're doing great, darling. Now, make the right wing move."

Ginny concentrated and slowly the right wing started moving.

"Ginny, you're doing great. Now, do the left."

Ginny, gaining confidence, started moving the left wing.

"Okay, Ginny, back out."

Ginny performed the reversal, opened her eyes and looked at her brother.

"You're doing great, Ginny. When this is over, I want to learn this, Thomas. I'm still not sure I want to try this with my dragons, but it may be useful in treating an injured animal," Charlie said, getting up.

Thomas thought for a second. "Since you made that comment about the dragons, I've been thinking. I've only done this with birds. But, Harry's a Parselmouth. I wonder if he'd be willing to experiment using snakes. That way Harry can talk to the snake while we experiment and we can find out if it really does work on other animals."

"Good idea. Actually if it could work on a snake, we might be able to use it before the actual Battle. " He heard a yelp and turned to see Fred's robes on fire. "I guess I need to go give Fred a hand."

Charlie walked back up to the garden where Tonks and Fred were working. Tonks was still laughing at Fred. "Having fun?" he asked.

Fred scowled at this brother. "Just loads. She's as bad as Mad Eye Moody. She hexed me when I wasn't ready."

Tonks, her eyes still twinkling with laughter, smirked. "Well, I'm sure you've memorized Moody's motto by now."

Fred threw a hex. "Believe me, I have," he smiled slyly at Tonks.

Charlie looked back and saw Thomas pulling Ginny to her feet. When they were both standing, Thomas and Ginny walked towards the woods.

Charlie walked around to the side of the house and watched Severus and Ron work. Ron, seeing that Severus was momentarily distracted, hexed Severus, sending him flying backwards and landing on his arse.

Severus got up slowly. "I think we'll call it a day. You have performed above average this afternoon, Ron. We'll resume in the morning."

Ron acknowledged the rare praise from Severus with a smile, placed his wand in his sleeve, and headed towards the shop to help his brothers.

Charlie sat down on the swing and Severus moved to sit beside him slowly. Charlie, biting back a smile, looked at Severus. "Are you all right?"

Severus sighed. "I'm fine. Ron just got lucky. Some handsome red head distracted me."

"Handsome, huh? You sure have a way with words. Talk like that could go to my head."

Severus chuckled evilly. "Which head?"

Charlie laughed. "I think staying here with my family is starting to corrupt you."

Severus sighed again, resting his head briefly on Charlie's shoulder. "You have a great family, Charlie. I have always envied watching your family at school. You're all loving, supportive, willing to back each other, unconditionally. It's mind blowing for me and my background to all of a sudden be a part of it. I want to thank you again for giving me such a wonderful gift."

Charlie smiled. "My pleasure," resting his chin on Severus head.

They sat in the swing and watched as Ginny and Thomas came out of the woods. "It looks like they are moving along nicely," replied Severus.

"Yes, I do believe they're good for each other, just like us."

They watched as Ginny and Thomas walked to the Owlery and released Pig. Hiding in the shadows, Ginny and Thomas kissed one more time. Ginny headed into the house to help her mum. Thomas walked into the shop.

Charlie and Severus sat on the swing for about an hour until Percy came around the side of the house removing his tie as he walked. Charlie smiled at the unusual site of Percy looking rumpled. "You're home early."

Percy sighed, as he sat down close to the swing. "Yes, I worked through lunch. Do you think we have some time before dinner to get in some training?"

Charlie stood up from the swing. "Sure, we have time. Severus, do you want to double team training him?"

"Certainly. He's always been bright enough to excel in anything, let's teach Percy the Patronus Spell."

They trained with Percy until Ginny came back out. "Mum said dinner would be ready in about fifteen minutes."

"Okay, Gin," replied Charlie, dodging a hex from Percy. "Time, Percy!"

They all headed into the house and cleaned up before dinner.

After dinner, Severus challenged Ron to a game of Wizard chess. They battled for hours until both conceded a draw.

Charlie ruffled Ron's hair, as Ron sighed his frustration in not being able to defeat Severus. "I think your reign of terror playing chess is now over, little brother."

"Sod off, Charlie. He just got lucky."

Ron called out to Severus as he was leaving the room. "Professor Snape, I'll beat you next time."

Charlie caught up to Severus on the stairs, yawning as he went.

Sleepy?" asked Severus.

"Yes, a little. Let's go to bed."

When Ginny heard her brother's door close, she headed over to Thomas' room. He was sitting at the desk writing when Ginny closed the door.

He looked up at the sound and his mouth opened in shock. "Ginny, what are you doing in here dressed like that? We'll get caught."

Ginny threw up a Silencing and Locking Charm on the door. She walked over to Thomas' desk, her long legs showing with every step through the gap in her robe. "We didn't get any time tonight so I wanted to say good night," she said, sitting on the edge of the desk crossing her legs.

Thomas mentally moaned his frustration. "You're a minx," he said, reaching up to try to cover her legs with her robe.

"Don't you want me to tell you good night?" Ginny asked, reaching over to brush Thomas' hair back.

Thomas gently grabbed her wrist and placed a kiss on her open palm. "This is dangerous," he said, standing up.

"Do you want me to leave?" Ginny asked, pouting.

Thomas, unable to resist, leaned over to taste her bottom lip. "No. Yes...God, Ginny, darling, I'm not a saint!"

"Good!" said Ginny, uncrossing her legs, pulling him closer at the same time. "I like bad boys."

Thomas held Ginny's face as he deepened the kiss. Ginny responded with a moan.

Thomas' hands slid down and slipped under her robe. He cupped her breast in his palm through her gown, causing her to shudder at the intimacy.

Thomas pulled away and looked down at Ginny's passion filled face.

"Make love to me, Thomas."

He picked her up off the desk and carried her towards the bed. He laid her down and lay down beside her. "Ginny, are you sure? I don't want you doing this for me. I can wait, if you aren't ready. I told you earlier, and I meant it, I was okay with going slow."

Ginny gently touched his face. "I'm sure. Make love to me, Thomas. I don't want to wait. There might not be a tomorrow."

After they had exhausted themselves, Thomas lay watching Ginny fall asleep.

He was amazed that such a young woman, who had barely come into her own womanhood, had chosen him to love. He lay holding her, watching her sleep throughout the night.

As dawn approached, he slowly kissed her awake. As the sunlight lit up the room, Thomas was frightened when he saw blood on her pale thighs. "Ginny, darling, you're bleeding. Why didn't you tell me to stop if I was hurting you?"

Ginny shook her head. "It only hurt when you first entered me. I'm okay. The blood is natural for my first time."

Thomas paled. "Oh, Ginny, I'm so sorry. I was so careless."

Ginny placed her fingertips on his mouth and sat up. "I wanted this." She tilted her head to the side and looked at him puzzled. "Have you never been with a virgin?"

"No, never."

"Have you been with a lot of women?"

Thomas pulled Ginny to him, trying not to laugh at the jealousy he saw flair in her expressive eyes. "Darling, no one has ever touched my heart the way you have. I have spent my entire life looking for you. I can't believe I had to travel around the world to find you. But now that I have, I won't let you slip away."

Ginny smiled at the sincerity in his eyes and his words. "The sun is rising, I need to go back to my room." Ginny climbed out of bed and couldn't hold back the moan of pain.

Thomas sat up and reached for her. "Ginny, what's wrong?"

"Nothing. My legs are just a little sore."

Thomas cursed. "I'm such an idiot. Sit back down on the bed."

Ginny sat down and Thomas got onto his knees in front of her. He slowly began a chant and touched her inner thighs. Ginny felt a warm sensation coming from his hands and the discomfort faded away.

He looked up at her, concern shadowing his dark eyes. "Is that better?"

"Much." Ginny got up and picked up her gown and slipped it on and reached for her robe. She tied it and started looking around the bed for her knickers.

"Are you looking for this?" Thomas asked, holding her knickers up with his fingers.

Ginny snatched them off his fingers and stuck them in her pocket.

Thomas got onto his feet and pulled Ginny in for a hug and walked her to the door. He released the charms and slowly opened the door. Seeing the hall clear, and not hearing any sounds of someone being up, he kissed her hard and pushed her out the door.

Thomas turned around and looked at the obvious evidence of their night together. He quickly cleaned it up, gathered clean clothes, and walked to the bathroom. He stood under a cold shower, reviving himself. He dressed, and then headed downstairs to wait for Molly and Arthur. He knew Ginny wanted them to tell her parents together, but felt he needed to speak to them alone first. Thomas' heart went to his throat as he heard Arthur and Molly coming down the stairs.

He came out of the living room and met them at the bottom step. "Arthur. Molly, can I have a word with you in private."

Arthur and Molly looked at each other and nodded. "Of course, Thomas."

They walked into the living room and turned to look at an unusually pale and nervous man. "Thomas, what is wrong? Is it Harry?"

"No, not Harry. My whole world has just turned upside down, and what I have to tell you may upset you both. You may take my head off before I finish and want me to leave. Please, sit down. I'll feel better if you both were sitting."

Molly and Arthur both looked at each other, and sat down side by side on the couch. Thomas sat on the edge of the chair across from them. Then he stood back up to start pacing.

"I just want both of you to know that I have fought this from the beginning. When I first met her, I thought someone had kicked me in the stomach. I kept telling myself she's too young, I'm too old, our ages are too far apart. But I've fallen in love with her."

Molly looked at him, the reality of what he was trying to say showing in her eyes. "You love who, Thomas?"

"He loves me, Mum," Ginny said, softly from the doorway.

Arthur found his voice. "You're in love with my daughter?"

Yes Arthur, I'm deeply in love with your daughter. I tried to fight my attraction, but when I realized Ginny was feeling the same thing, I couldn't resist any longer." Thomas sank back in the chair.

Molly looked at her daughter. "Are you sure, Ginny?"

"Yes, Mum," she said, as she sat on the arm of the chair that Thomas now occupied. "We are both sure."

Arthur sat back and looked at his only daughter. "Well, love, I guess you have grown up despite my efforts."

Molly looked at the pair intently. "How far has your relationship gone?"

"Nothing more than kissing, Mum."

Thomas squeezed Ginny's hand, knowing she hated to lie to Molly about anything. "I fully realize that Ginny still has two more years of school. I want you to know that I'm going to wait on her until she has finished Hogwarts."

Molly's eyes filled with tears. She looked at Arthur. Arthur nodded his agreement to whatever decision she made. She turned back to the couple. "I know a lot can change in two years. I'm not even sure what will happen in six months, but you have our blessing. I just don't want any fooling around under our roof."

Ginny leaped off the chair and hugged her parents.

Molly stood up, wiping her tears away, and sniffed. "I need to start breakfast."

Thomas, relieved that he could now be open about his feeling towards Ginny, stood up and held out his hand to Ginny. "Would you like to take a walk with me before breakfast?"

Ginny took his hand and they walked out the front door.

Arthur watched them through the window. "Are you sure about this, Molly?"

"We have raised an independent woman, Arthur. She is mature beyond her years. Instead of hiding their growing relationship, they came to us to get our blessing. So yes, I'm sure."

Ginny and Thomas walked around the pond watching the ducks taking an early morning swim. "You tried to talk to my parents without me," she said softly. The hurt showed in her voice.

"I just didn't think I could eat breakfast without talking to them. But, I'm glad you were there. They seemed to accept us when they knew it was what you wanted too. But, what happened last night will not happen again."

Ginny pouted. "But I thought you liked what we did last night."

Thomas chuckled and kissed her pouting mouth. "Darling, you're going to be the death of me. I loved what we did last night, and I would take you back upstairs now to prove it. But your Mother's instructions were clear and I want to respect her wishes."

Ginny smiled, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Yes, dear. What ever you say."

Thomas laughed at the look on her face and looked up at the sky. "Lord, give me strength, I have a feeling that she's going to be giving me trouble before long."

They kissed and walked back into the house so Ginny could help her mother with breakfast.

The entire Weasley family, along with Severus and Thomas, were sitting down eating breakfast when Dumbledore's head appeared in the fireplace. Molly jumped with surprise, when his head appeared under the kettle of water she was placing in the fire to boil for tea. "Good morning, Molly! I'm looking for Severus. Is he there this morning?"

Severus stood up and walked to stand in front of the fireplace. "I'm here, Albus."

"Good, Harry is ready to come back to the Burrow. Can you please retrieve him for me? I have a meeting at the Ministry this morning and I have a visitor coming sometime today."

"I will leave immediately."

Ron smiled at the news. He was relieved that Harry had worked through whatever had upset him so quickly.

Severus went upstairs and put on a robe. Charlie watched from the doorway. "Do you want company?"

"He should be all right, if he's ready to come back. In case he isn't, could you please make sure that the house is empty and wait for us up here? I'll bring him up to you as soon as we return."

Severus grabbed the Portkey he had created earlier and Disapparated.