Connections

Chapter 8: Celebration

Harry woke up Saturday morning before the sun came up over the horizon. At first he sat up and was thinking about going running. Then it clicked in his brain that he would be going shopping with Bethany. He was about to snuggle back down into bed when he realized that today was July 31st. It was his fifteenth birthday and he wasn't at the Dursleys. He looked around the room and saw Ron sleeping soundly in the next bed. He'd only been in his friend's home for a week but it felt much longer. "So much has happened in the past week," he thought, "and I almost left this all behind." He shook his head at his memories from the last weekend.

"I know I made the right decision. I'm with my friends, I met someone that was one of my mum's friends, and Ginny," he grinned broadly, "That definitely wasn't something I expected." He decided to get up anyway. "Maybe," he thought, "I can see Ginny before she meets Charlie for their run."

He crept quietly down the stairs and saw Ginny doing the same a few feet in front of him. No one else was awake when he reached for Ginny's shoulder. She startled and jumped, but Harry was able to shush her before she called out.

"Harry," she whispered, "You scared me. Don't you remember? You're going shopping you don't need to be upright now. Go back to bed after all ..." she paused as she remembered, "Oh, Harry, happy birthday!"

Harry smiled. That was the first time since Hagrid came to him on his eleventh birthday and told and he was a wizard that anyone had told him that. Ginny noticed his unusual facial expression. "What's the matter?" she asked as she moved closer and reached for his hand.

Harry smiled and took both of Ginny's hands in his, "Nothing, Gin, just hadn't heard those words before, at least not from a very cute red head. "

Ginny grinned, looked around and kissed Harry on the cheek, "Well then. Happy birthday, Harry Potter. "

She hugged him. He held her tightly and said, "Probably my best gift ever. "

Ginny looked up at Harry again, "Harry, are you sure about all this? I mean, it's so sudden. "

"Gin, it really isn't that sudden. I'm not a total prat you know. I didn't just notice you yesterday. And I do believe there's been a certain Weasley girl that was a little more than obvious in her interest in a certain wizard that shall remain nameless," Harry teased and Ginny playfully slapped him.

"I don't think we need to go out and get married next week. Your mum wouldn't be pleased. I'd like us to be friends," Harry said. He and Ginny were in the kitchen walking toward the back door.

"I'd like that too, Harry, but what do you mean?" Ginny asked more confused about Harry's feelings.

"Gin, I don't mean be just friends. I sort of liked that hug on the stairs. " Harry grinned, "I like the idea of having a girlfriend. "

Ginny's smiled faltered at his last statement. Harry noticed and reached for her hand, "Ginny, I like the idea of you being my girlfriend." He looked in her eyes, "It's just I want us to be friends. You know some of the stories Charlie and Bethany told us at the pond, I think that they've always considered one another friends. And that's what I want for you, too."

Ginny smiled a little shocked by this statement. Only moments before she thought Harry wanted to put a stop to anything romantic and now he was thinking beyond even what she had dreamed.

Harry smiled. He guessed Ginny was experiencing that same flutter in her stomach that he was and leaned over and kissed her once more. "Come on or Charlie will be coming after you," he said as he held the door open for her to exit.

"How late do you think you'll be at Diagon Alley?" Ginny asked as they walked across the backyard.

"Hermione and I only need to get a few things. But I am not sure what all Bethany has to do. She said something about making a day of it, " Harry answered. He released Ginny's hand as they turned the corner to find Charlie. Bethany was with Charlie their backs facing Harry and Ginny. She was wrapped in her dressing gown sitting beside

him as he did sit ups.

"Hi you two," she called without turning her back. Harry and Ginny looked each other.

"How did she know ..." Ginny mouthed silently. Harry answered with a shrug.

" Happy birthday, Harry," Bethany said as she turned to greet him, "I thought you were having a lie in today since it's your birthday."

"I'm used to waking up early. I guess, " Harry said. Then realizing that he didn't have an explanation for being with Ginny, he added, "I was hungry and ran into Ginny in the kitchen and decided to walk her out. "

Bethany whispered something to Charlie that Harry and Ginny couldn't hear. Charlie smirked at her and she laughed and kissed him on the cheek.

"Harry, how about a birthday breakfast. I'm not Carlo in the kitchen but I do know how to cook. French toast sound good?" Bethany offered.

"Sounds great," Harry answered.

"Save us some will you?" Charlie said as the motioned for Ginny to begin her workout.

* * * * *

They were alone in the kitchen. Harry watched as Bethany collected eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract to add to the large bowl on the table.

"You don't cook with magic?" he asked.

"No, it's just as easy and usually much better tasting to cook by hand," Bethany said as she whisked the eggs and smiled as she accioed a loaf of bread to the table.

Harry didn't miss the fact that she had not used a wand nor did he miss the slight change in her expression when she realized what she had done.

"How did you do that? Harry asked.

"Do what?" Bethany asked pretending unsuccessfully that she did not understand what Harry had meant.

"You just summoned that loaf of bread without a wand. And, yesterday at the pond you splashed Charlie with a water spout created by magic, and banished the cabana without using your wand either," Harry said, "I've only seen one other person do anything like that."

"Really?" Bethany started but decided to come clean and admit her talent, "I know you have done wandless magic before. All witches and wizards do as children."

"No I …" Harry started, "Well, only the accidental magic, mostly before I even knew I was a wizard. There was one time I blew up my Aunt Marge and she floated around the ceiling but I was really mad then."

"It's the same thing but with control," Bethany told Harry as she dunked a piece of bread into the sweet egg batter.

"Then how come more people don't do it?" Harry asked.

Bethany dropped two soggy slices of bread onto the warm skillet and looked up at Harry, "I've often asked that question myself. It is a matter of control though. Some witches and wizards can do it better than others. I don't use a wand for much anymore, but I still need it for some spells. Some can only do very simple charms and spells without a wand."

"Could I do it?" Harry asked.

"You already have. I would hope you could do it again. Actually with some of the things you have already accomplished I'd be much more surprised if you couldn't," Bethany flipped the pieces of toast and continued, "Give it a try. Summon that piece of parchment over there."

Harry looked over in the direction of the parchment. He bit his lip and looked back toward Bethany, "What about the regulations?"

"Boy are you ever James' son. Break the rules when it suited him, but as soon as he thought he might fail at something it was 'the rules this, the laws that'. He could be a real pain as a Marauder and a Head Boy sometimes," Bethany smiled, "but he was never as strict as your mum. Did you know that at the end of term their seventh year she took 100 points from the Gryffindors for a prank James, Sirius, Remy, and Peter did. It cost them the House Cup that year?"

Harry shook his head amazed to get this new information about his parents. Bethany never seemed to hold back on the stories like Sirius and Professor Lupin did. Harry liked that.

Bethany brought him out of his thoughts, "Give it a try, Harry, I won't tell if you don't. There's so much magic around here that they can't really tell who's doing it. "

Harry shrugged, "How?"

Bethany smiled remembering the first time she taught Bill, "Just concentrate on what you want. Focus on it and say the words. Know that you can, Harry. "

Harry nodded, took a deep breath, and said, "Accio!" The piece of parchment flew toward Harry. With his Quidditch reflexes he easily caught the piece of parchment flying toward him. His smile grew and his eyes widen, "I did it!"

Bethany smiled at Harry. She did not tell Harry that not everyone was capable of doing that magic. It had taken Bill, who had strong magical talent, many practice sessions before his spell looked as graceful. She decided to see what more he could do.

"Banish it back to the counter," she instructed. Harry did as he was told and the parchment floated gracefully back in place.

"Good, Harry, you're a natural. Try to unlock this cabinet," she said biting her lip in anticipation.

"Alohamora," Harry said looking at the locked cabinet. The door clicked open just as Bill walked into the kitchen.

"Mmmm, that smells great ..." Bill stopped mid sentence as he watched the door finish its swing, "Teaching already, Bethany? Harry, how long have you been practicing your little trick there?"

"I haven't practiced. I asked Bethany about some of the wandless magic that I'd seen her do and she told me everyone could do it and said I could try," Harry said proud of his accomplishment. He hadn't thought it would be so easy.

"She told you that did she? That anyone could do it?" Bill arched his eyebrows and looked over at Bethany who smirked and shrugged her reply.

"Harry," Bill said looking at him again, "Did Bethany tell you that she once instructed me in the same?" Harry shook his head. Bethany flipped the French toast in the skillet and nodded over at Harry and Bill. Her nod was to confirm that she had taught Bill the same and to acknowledge that it was okay for Bill to explain the rest.

"The first thing she taught was a summoning spell. She was a first year and I was a third year. We had just met at a detention," Bill continued the entire story he told his parents only a few days ago. Harry listened amazed.

"So you couldn't just do the spell the same as with your wand?" Harry asked.

"There's still many things I can't do without a wand, but most of the easier spells I have mastered without the wand," Bill explained, "Not just anyone can do this magic, Harry. "

Harry looked questioningly at Bethany. She had misled him. "OK, I wasn't exactly truthful, but I didn't doubt you could do it. Your father mastered the Animagus Transformation more easily than the others, and Lily had already done some things wandless without even realizing it," Bethany told him, "Charlie has tried but can't do it, neither can Carlo or Merrick, but T.J. learned more quickly than Bill. But you are the first I've seen able to do the magic that easily."

Harry swallowed, "Mum and dad could do this to?"

"The Animagus Transformation is wandless magic, Harry. Your dad did that easily but couldn't control most spells without his wand. Your mum, like Bill, could do and did most easy spells wandless without consideration, but she never managed the more complex spells without using her wand, " Bethany told him.

"What does this mean?" Harry asked.

Bethany walked over and ruffled Harry's already messy hair, "It means, Harry Potter, the you can do wandless magic. Many wizards and witches can, but don't. Many more cannot do even the simplest spells without a source of focus, a wand," Bethany said and summoned the plates and silverware to the table for Harry and Bill. Then she carried over a plate with several pieces of French toast.

"Harry," Bill said as he buttered the toast and sprinkled it with powdered sugar, "I wouldn't announce this to many people. I don't know if you should tell Hermione or Ron even. "

Harry didn't like the idea of keeping more secrets from his friends, but understood what Bill was saying. It would cause a rift between him and Ron, yet another thing he could do that Ron probably couldn't. Hermione would be worried about him breaking rules, Harry thought as he ate the French toast.

Bill jumped up as soon as he was finished and sent his dishes to the sink without using his wand. He winked at Harry, "Keep up the practice. Oh, and Harry, if you hurt my little sister, I'll give you the first of the six beatings you'll receive. " Bill winked at Bethany on his way out the door.

Harry was frowning when Bethany joined him at the table. "Harry, I take it you two thought no one else knew?" Bethany said

Harry nodded, "It's not like we've been snogging all over the place. I've only kissed her four times. We talked about it. Neither one of us wants to rush into anything. I told her I'd like us to be friends, well um..." Harry paused as he blushed a bit.

Bethany finished his sentence "Friends with benefits? Believe me Harry, I understand that one. I think Charlie and I knew the first time we met the we'd end up married. "

Harry looked at her doubtfully. He couldn't believe he was talking about this with her. She was easier to talk to than Sirius or Remus had ever been.

"It is a long story but Charlie and I became friends our first year. By the Christmas of our second year, we both knew there was much more, but it was the end of the year before we even held hands. And, it was in our third year before he worked up the nerve to kiss me on the cheek," she told him as she and Harry laughed.

"I know it isn't the same as you and Ginny. I know about her crush. I know what happened in the Chamber, too. The feelings can be there for a long time. I'd take advantage of your runs to get to know her, " Bethany said making Harry smile and blush. "And I don't mean physically. I mean emotionally. Those runs may be your only time alone without several Weasley eyes watching your every move, " Bethany said.

"We are a bit worried. We figure Charlie and Bill will be okay about everything. You know, take it pretty much like Bill just did. But, we were a bit worried about Ron," Harry said.

"After many years of spending way too much time with the two oldest Weasley boys, my advice would be not to hide it. It would only hurt him more. I wouldn't necessarily announce it to him but let him see the two of you together. And, if he asks, be totally honest because I've a feeling your worst beating would come from Ron, best mates or not. " Bethany smiled, but Harry still looked a little worried.

"Harry, Charlie was a bit surprised, not ready for his kid sister grow up. But, if any of the Weasleys, Ron included, had to choose a boyfriend for Ginny, you would be the number one choice on their list," Bethany got up and took her dishes to the sink, "The only problem is most of them would prefer that she not have a boyfriend," Bethany was grinning.

"Thanks for the reassurance," Harry said jokingly.

"Don't go anywhere, Harry. I have a birthday present for you. I think you might want to open it now, by yourself," Bethany said as she walked out of the room. She returned with a small package that she handed to Harry.

"You didn't have to, you know," Harry said.

"I know, and actually, I didn't. This is yours anyway," Bethany said.

Harry opened the small package slowly to reveal a wooden box with carving of a stag and a lily on its top. "My parents," Harry thought. "This was theirs?" Harry asked.

"Yes, I believe your dad carved that box. We can ask Sirius or Remy. They'd know for sure. There is something inside," Bethany said.

Harry looked at the box. He turned it slowly looking at the carvings on each side. The castle of Hogwarts was on one side, a Gryffindor Lion on another, the third side revealed two interconnecting circles, and the last side had a large tree with his parents initials carved on the trunk. The bottom was smooth.

Harry couldn't believe that he held something that had belonged to his parents. He opened the small box. It was lined in burgundy velvet. Nestled in the bottom half the box was a necklace with a stone the same shade as the velvet. It sparkled like fire when the light hit it. The stone was set in filigreed gold. Harry picked it up and felt warmth flowing from it. He naturally brought it to his heart.

Bethany wore a melancholy smile, "Your mother was wearing it when she died. I took it from her then. I've saved it for you since. " Bethany walked over to Harry and put her hand on his shoulder. He was looking away but she could tell there were tears in his eyes.

"You were there when Voldemort came?" Harry asked quietly.

"No," Bethany said, "I arrived just after Sirius and Hagrid. Voldemort was gone by then, as well as Peter and whomever else may have joined them. "

Harry turned to look better, "He wasn't alone when killed them?"

"Harry, Voldemort is evil, but he's a coward. He doesn't attack without others with him," Bethany said, "Now smile. I didn't give you that to make you sad. Your mother loved that necklace. Your father had it in his family for years before he gave it to her. It was what he used when he asked her to marry him. The warmth you feel is their love. It takes on the fire of passion of each couple that it joins. So, actually, it has the love that your grandparents and great-grandparents shared as well. " Harry held the amulet in his hands thinking of all Bethany had just told him.

Bethany left Harry in his thoughts as she put enough French toast for all the Weasleys into a box charmed to keep it warm and fresh and said, "Take this to Molly. She won't have to fix breakfast for that brood of hers today. I'll be over as soon as I have changed and we can go shopping."

Harry smiled still holding the amulet in one hand, "Thank you, Bethany. "

" You're very welcome," she said.

* * * * *

Harry, Hermione, and Bethany use the floo system to travel to Diagon Alley through the Leaky Cauldron. "Okay, spill it you two," Bethany said. "What's the big secret? What do you two have to buy?"

Hermione was not as familiar with Bethany as Harry, as she looked nervously in Harry's direction. "An owl," Harry said, "Since we've known the Weasleys they've only had poor Errol and he ..."

"Isn't going to be around another week," said Bethany said gravely.

"Hermione thought she and I could put our money together and buy them a nice owl to thank them for everything. You know, Mr. and Mrs. Weasley treat me like one of their own," Harry said.

Hermione nodded and added, "And me, also. My parents try to understand, but just don't, and it's like having an aunt and uncle to help out. They're always giving everything they've got. "

"That is very sweet. I think that you have a great idea. Let's start our trip with a stop at Eeylops. That way they can get the owl cleaned up while we finish shopping and we can pick it up before we leave," Bethany said.

They set off towards the Owl Emporium. The store was dark since owls prefer the night.

Harry and Hermione examined the cages filled with birds. There was every type of owl imaginable. They were somewhat at a loss for what to choose.

"Would you like some help," Bethany offered, "I know a little bit about magical animals."

They both nodded. Bethany looked around, "Let's see. We don't want an eagle owl. They're large and impressive but very moody and temperamental. Snowy owls are nice, but isn't that what you have, Harry?" Harry nodded as he followed her down the aisle of caged birds. "We can eliminate the pygmy and elf owls. They're much too small. Screech owls make a lot of noise. Barn owls are good. They're reliable and strong, but there are rather ordinary." Bethany looked over Harry and Hermione. She knew they wanted something special. "Ahhh, that's the one," Bethany walked to the back of the store. Sitting in a cage was a great horned owl. As they approached the bird puffed itself up. Bethany cooed at the bird and the bird seemed to answer her.

Hermione turned to Harry, "What is she doing? It's like she's holding a conversation with that bird. "

"I talked to Hedwig and you talk to Crookshanks," Harry said defending Bethany.

"Yes, but they don't talk back," she said.

Bethany completed her conversation with a large bird and turned to her companions. "His name is Amadeus. And he is perfect. He's 2 years old so he requires no training, and he'd love to be a member of the Weasley family," Bethany told them.

Hermione looked skeptical and slightly concerned, "The owl told you this, did he?"

Remembering the snake at the pond, Harry said, "Do you know the story of Dr. Doolittle?"

"Yes, the old Disney movie where the man could talk to animals. But what has this got to do with anything?" Hermione asked.

"Well," Harry said, motioning his arms towards Bethany, "Meet the real life Dr. Doolittle. I've heard her speak Parseltongue and Charlie said she can talk to almost all animals. "

"So you could talk to Crookshanks if you wanted to?" Hermione asked.

"Of course, but he'd have to be in the mood to answer. Cats can be very particular about communicating with other cats and, well, Kneazles or even worse," Bethany said.

"Crookshanks isn't a Kneazle," Hermione said.

"Not totally. But he is at least one-quarter Kneazle I'll have to ask if it's more," Bethany said.

Harry laughed and called for the store attendant. They purchased Amadeus and a nice new cage for him. Then Harry asked Bethany to pick out four barn owls.

"What do you want with so many owls, Harry?" Hermione asked.

"Well, I figured Fred and George could use one for their business. Hedwig hates when they send her all over the place. And, you know, Pigwidgeon is just not a proper owl. So, one is for Ron. And, I thought Ginny would like one, too," Harry explained blushing slightly as he mentioned Ginny's name.

"Remind me to talk to you about Ginny, but that's only three, Harry, what about the fourth? Are you planning a lot of correspondence anytime soon?" Hermione asked.

"No," Harry said with a smiling smirk, "the fourth is for you."

"Harry Potter, that is very nice, but I have a cat," Hermione said. "How am I to travel with both?"

Harry turned to the attendant, "Send the barn owls to Hogwarts, please, for the Weasleys and Ms. Granger. We will come back for the horned owl when we're done with our shopping."

Hermione smiled and made a face, "So official, Harry, I am impressed. "

Bethany chuckled, "Yes, he does seem to act like he has done this before. Might be a little Minister of Magic in the making. "

Harry rolled his eyes at them and offered each of them an arm. Both ladies curtsied and allowed Harry to lead them out the door.

"Where to next?" Harry asked.

"Madam Maulkin's," Bethany answered and they headed in the direction of the clothier.

* * * * *

Madam Maulkin greeted Bethany happily as they entered. Hermione and Harry exchanged glances. They had never seen her this friendly before. She usually acted as if she was several social levels above most of her customers. Hermione whispered to Harry, "She's actually offering Bethany tea. What is the deal?"

"I must say, I've never worked in dragon hide before, but I believe you will be happy with the results," Madam Maulkin clapped her hands and a nervous attendant entered from the rear of the store carrying several robes made of dragon hide bearing the Hogwarts crest.

Bethany smiled, "You did a great job, Marie. The should do nicely. Now, I also need a few other things. " Bethany led Madam Maulkin to the everyday robes. Harry and Hermione sat down and drank tea.

"What is this all about?" Hermione asked.

"Well, I know she's rich. Charlie said she has more money than the Malfoys could dream about," Harry told her and Hermione's eyes widen at the thought.

"Harry, could she have arranged the Weasley's luck the other day?" Hermione asked realizing that it really was too much to believe.

"She did have a hand in it, but it was Charlie who did it all," Harry said, "I overheard him when we were shopping and he told me a bit. When we all found out about Bethany, he told me the rest. "

"Does dragon tending pay that well?" Hermione asked with a smile.

Harry laughed and shook his head, "Bill said she inherited it from her family. Her mum and dad were both wealthy and each left her separate fortunes when they died." Hermione winced a little. She knew that Harry had also gained his wealth by the death of his parents.

"So, Harry, Ginny tells me you two are, um, friendly now," Hermione said, grinning mischievously. Harry smirked and blushed a little. "I'll take that as confirmation. Do tell. What made the change all the sudden?" she asked.

Harry gave her an exasperated huff, "I guess there will be no telling you to mind your own business?" Hermione shook her head and Harry continued, "I didn't think so. Herm, it isn't really all that sudden. After all, I knew she was a 'girl' before Ron realized the same about you. " Harry grinned at the blush and Hermione's cheek. "Ha! I knew it," Harry said, "Ginny and I are friends. "

"Yes and so are you and I, and I don't recall snogging in a pond with you lately," Hermione challenged.

"Oh, come on, Herm. You know what I mean. I like Ginny, a lot. But I want to have her friendship first," Harry said.

"That really is nice, Harry. You should give lessons," Hermione said.

"What's the matter? Trouble with Mr. Weasley?" Harry said grinning.

"You and Ron are my best friends. When Ron finally decided to notice that I was a girl I was flattered and even a little excited. But sometimes, he and I aren't on the same page. And just when he is about to drive me up the wall, he does something nice," Hermione said.

"So, you're saying, it upsets you when he's nice?" Harry asked more confused than when he started the conversation.

"No, silly, it's just that we still fight like we always have. And every now and then, he decides I'm a 'girl' again and he does something nice and I think, ' hey, this is nice ' then he'll say something truly obnoxious again and before you know it we're having another row," Hermione said, "And lately, he seems to think he owns me. Like we have discussed this arrangement. That was one thing I hated about Viktor. He acted that same way sometimes. "

"I'm not sure what to tell you. Ron has always jumped to your defense. I think he just doesn't know what to do," Harry suggested.

"If only he would make up his mind, I would be happy. I don't know what to do. I don't want to lose him as a friend, and I am really worried that it might happen if we take this any further," Hermione said.

"How for have you taken it?" Harry asked.

"Not as far as you and Ginny," she answered.

"You want me to talk to him?" Harry asked. To his relief Hermione shook her head in answer.

Bethany walked over smiling, "Ready to go? They're sending the packages on to the Burrow."

"Bethany, who needed robes with the Hogwarts' crest?" Harry asked. Bethany smiled and drew her fingers across her lips as if closing a zipper and walked out of the store.

They followed her to Flourish and Blotts. Bethany explored the stacks of books and selected many different titles.

"Add these to my other order and send them all to the Burrow," she said she paid for her items.

They traveled in and out of several stores. Bethany making odd purchases here and there. Many of the stores Harry and Hermione had never entered.

They were standing just outside the sweet shop and Bethany said, "Ooh, let's go get some sweets. I've been having a craving for Fizzing Whizbees."

Hermione whispered something to Bethany. As Harry and Bethany entered the sweet shop Hermione said she needed more ink and left to walk toward the stationery store.

Instead, Hermione entered Quality Quidditch Supplies. She decided to get Harry some refills for his broom servicing kit and practice Snitch for his birthday.

"You have one lucky friend young lady. This practice Snitch is the latest advance. It will act just like a regular Snitch except it can be called back to its box easily," Joe said as he handed her seven slips of parchment.

"What are these for?" she asked.

He pointed to a sign that explained the drawing for the latest brooms. Hermione quickly wrote her own name on each piece of parchment and drop them in the boxes.

Hermione hurried next door and purchased fuchsia ink and returned to the sweet shop to meet Bethany and Harry who were still making their selections. Harry held up a large bags of sweets and smiled at her Hermione, "Getting something for everyone. "

Bethany's basket was filled with sweets or all sorts, "Are you two up to a trip into Muggle London?"

Harry and Hermione looked at one another, shrugged and nodded.

"Good. I need a some clothes and I wanted to get some new CD's," Bethany said as she added eight boxes of Bertie's Every-Flavored Beans to her basket.

"Harry, Ginny's favorite is Sugar Quills, but she rarely buys them for herself," Hermione said as she put six Chocolate Frogs into her bag. Harry grinned and added three Sugar Quills to his purchases.

"Thinking about all these sweets has made me hungry. And I'll be sick if I eat all this. Let's get lunch then we can leave Diagon Alley," Bethany said as she completed her purchase.

Hermione looked down at her watch. It was already after one o'clock. None of them had realized they were shopping that long. As they left the sweet shop Harry and Hermione turned to walk toward the Leaky Cauldron.

Bethany stopped and called after them, "Where are you going?"

"The Leaky Cauldron. Didn't you say you wanted something for lunch?" Harry asked with mild confusion.

"That's right," Bethany said as they joined her, "You never would have gone anywhere else. Well, Harry and Hermione, you are both in for a treat. The Leaky Cauldron is not the only place to have a meal in Diagon Alley. Follow me."

Bethany led them past Gringotts to a small restaurant. Harry had not seen many restaurants in his life, but he could tell that this one was very nice. Hermione had eaten at many fine muggle restaurants with her parents. She was clearly impressed by the façade of this one. The sign was dark purple with gold script reading 'Le Socier Puissant'. Hermione mumbled the translation, "The Powerful Wizard. I never knew this place existed."

"It's not exactly a place to get fish and chips. My mother brought me here as a child. It is one of Carlo's favorite places to eat in London. It really is quite good," Bethany said as she approached the door and motioned them forward.

The door opened by itself. Hermione turned to Bethany, "Won't we need a reservation?"

"They take them here, of course. It can get quite busy at times, but I have never had a problem getting a nice table."

Harry and Hermione giggled excitedly, "I'm glad you came up with that owl idea, Herm. This should be fun."

They were in the small entrance room checking their packages with an attractive young witch when they heard a familiar voice.

"I simply must have one of those new brooms, Father," Draco Malfoy was whining to his father as they waited to be seated.

The smiles faded from Harry's and Hermione's faces. "This was not who I wanted to see," Harry thought, "especially on my birthday." Harry frowned at Hermione.

"How much longer must we stand here?" Lucius Malfoy barked at the hostess. Then he turned to his son and said, "I am not spending that much money on a broom for you. There is only so much you can expect from a broom. The rider has to have at least some skill. You have never even come close to catching the Snitch before Potter. I see no reason for you to have one. Besides, with your grades, you don't deserve it. My son, a Malfoy, out scored in all his courses by a mudblood. And, to arrive at the station with curse marks all over you. Your mother was so embarrassed."

"It will only be a moment or two longer," said a polite French voice belonging to the hostess.

Harry and Hermione were both smiling again. "Maybe seeing the Malfoys wouldn't be so bad," Harry thought. He looked at Hermione. She didn't seem to even mind the 'mudblood' comment. Harry remembered that Hermione had once told him, "If it separates me from the likes of Lucius Malfoy, I'll have written a my forehead. " They both straightened out their robes and Harry placed his hand on his wand. "No sense being ill-prepared," he thought. When Harry and Hermione entered the room where Draco and his father waited, they were smiling broadly.

Draco turned slowly to see who had entered. His customary pompous smirk betrayed mild shock at seeing his fellow Hogwarts' students. But the shock was only temporary as he smugly said, "Potter, Granger, the deliveries are made in the rear. "

Harry and Hermione returned the smile but did not answer. Bethany joined them and placed a hand on their shoulders and glared toward the Malfoys. The hostess, seeing Bethany, rushed past the Malfoys, "Lady Donnalaith, what a pleasure. How many do you have dining with us today?"

Lucius was offended by the slight. He turned to see who was getting more attention than he was. He hatefully glared at Bethany. Bethany smiled sarcastically in return.

"Just the three, Monique, but my two young friends," Bethany said as she indicated Harry and Hermione, "have never been here. "

Monique, the hostess, smiled back, turned and clapped her hands. A flurry of activity was taking place in the restaurant. Lucius' face was reddening. He demanded to know when they would be seated. The hostess smiled politely and explained, "It will be a few minutes longer, Sir. May I suggest that in the future you make a reservation. "

The hostess then turned her attention toward Bethany and said, "Lady Donnalaith, we have your table ready. Please follow me. "

Harry smiled at Hermione and said more loudly than necessary, "I'm so happy they could seat us so quickly without a reservation. "

"Yes, that is true. I would hate to have to wait," Hermione said as she and Harry both tried to hold back laughter that threatened to escape.

They were seated at a table near a window but away from the traffic flow of the restaurant. "That was great!" Hermione exclaimed as she sat down.

"I take it that the young Malfoy is not a friend of yours," Bethany said, "I rather enjoyed that myself. His father is a pompous pain in the ..." She didn't finish her statement. She motioned with her head in the direction that Monique was leading the Malfoys. They were being seated at a small table near the door to the kitchen. When Draco noticed where Harry and Hermione were sitting, the best table in the restaurant, his jaw dropped and he looked away.

"Order what ever you like. It's my treat," Bethany said, "Everything here is delicious. "

They ordered their meals and chatted as they ate. Bethany told them about the Donnalaith family since it was getting them preferential treatment.

After their meal was finished, they went to Eeylops Owl Emporium to collect Amadeus. Then they left the owl and their other packages with Tom at the Leaky Cauldron and hailed a muggle taxi.

The taxi took them to Mark's and Spencer's, a large muggle department store. Hermione had visited several times before, but Harry had never gone shopping for clothes other than his Hogwarts' school uniforms.

Bethany turned to Hermione, "Do you know Ginny's size?"

"Yes, why?" Hermione answered as she looked through the racks of clothing.

"I thought that we could pick her out few things. I know Ron and the twins can all use new jeans, too. Any guess on their sizes?" Bethany asked.

Harry had been looking around amazed at the size of the store. He had become accustomed to being amazed by some of the everyday things most wizards and witches took for granted, but he had not realized how much he had missed in the muggle world as well.

Hermione tapped Harry on the shoulder, "Earth to Harry. I asked if you knew what size Ron and the twins wear?"

"Not exactly. But I do know their heights and weights if that'll help," Harry said. The girls gave him odd looks so he explained, "From Quidditch. I know the twin's uniform sizes and I'm sure I can guess Ron's size after living with him for four years. "

The trio now set out on a new mission, to get muggle clothing for all the younger Weasleys. "Harry, Hermione," Bethany said, "be sure to choose a few things for yourself also."

"Bethany, really you don't need to," Harry said as Hermione nodded in agreement.

"Harry, don't argue. Had your mum and dad survived, I would have spent loads more on you than I have this week. So quit being so polite and go. I have the money, Harry, more than I can spend in my lifetime. So do me a favor and let me share," she said smiling.

Harry and Hermione shrugged and started looking for clothes for themselves as well as their friends. Bethany removed a piece of parchment from her backpack and sent the store attendant after items for her roommates.

They loaded the packages into the back of the waiting taxicab and rode back to the Leaky Cauldron. Harry and Hermione chatted excitedly about everything that had happened that day. "Wow, I think I'm shopped out for the day. Maybe even the month. What about you two?" Bethany said as they went into the Leaky Cauldron. Harry and Hermione nodded their agreements.

They collected their packages from Tom and traveled back to the Burrow using the floo system. They dusted themselves off as they exited the fireplace. Harry looked around, "Where is everybody?" He placed Amadeus on the kitchen table and Hermione added the card that they had purchased go along with it.

"They're probably out back. Help us put all these packages in the rooms they belong," Bethany said.

Harry grabbed his and Ron's packages and ran up the stairs to their room. He put them on their beds and left meeting Bethany at the landing outside of Ginny's room. She had the packages for the twins. He took them from her and left them outside of their room. He didn't know what sort of booby traps they might have left so he didn't go inside. Hermione joined them on their way down.

"No one is in the House," he said.

"Like I said they're probably out back. Come on. Help me carry my things," Bethany said winking at Hermione.

Harry picked up a few bags with his back turned toward the girls and rolled his eyes. He had heard them whispering all week. He expected a party and was prepared for a surprise.

They walked out the back to Bethany's tent. Bethany held the door for Hermione and Harry to enter. The kitchen was empty. They went into the living room. Harry expected the surprise to come. As he turned the corner he braced himself for ... nothing. Harry frowned. Hermione turned to look at the photographs on the wall to hide her smile.

"I wonder where everyone is?" Bethany asked, "Harry, come and help take my things upstairs please. " Bethany led the way up the stairs.

Hermione called, "I'll be down here," as they went up.

Harry was a little disappointed as he thought, "No one was in the Burrow and no one was here either. Where could they all be?"

"This way, Harry," Bethany said leading him to her bedroom, "I just need to put these things away. "

"Wonder where they all went," Harry mumbled as he handed Bethany her packages.

"Don't worry. They'll turn up sooner or later," Bethany said. Bethany left her room first, "Coming Harry?"

"Um, I, uh, need to use the loo," Harry said, "I'll be right down. "

"I'll see you in a bit then," Bethany said as she went down the stairs.

* * * * *

Harry was feeling a little sad as the walked down the stairs. He really did think he would have at least had a birthday dinner with the Weasleys. He remembered that Penelope Clearwater, Percy's girlfriend, was coming for a visit. So he thought that they must be doing something with her. Harry sighed as he thought, "Sirius hasn't even gotten in touch with me today. " Harry reached the bottom of the stairs still looking at his feet. He slowly raised his head.

"SURPRISE!"

Harry fell back when they yelled. He looked around. All the Weasleys were there as well as Bethany's housemates. Hermione ran up and hugged Harry tightly. When she released him Harry saw Remus Lupin was present standing next to a stranger. Neville Longbottom, Seamus Finnigan, Dean Thomas, Parvati and Padma Patil, and Lavender Brown were there from his year at Hogwarts. And Katie Bell, Angelina Johnson, and Lee Jordan were there also. As Harry turned a camera's flash blinded him momentarily telling him that Colin Creevey was also present. Percy and Penelope immediately fell into their old roles of Head Boy and girl and began telling the others what to do.

Everyone seemed to rush to him at once. They greeted him with hugs, friendly backslaps and well wishes. Harry sat back on the stairs a little overwhelmed. The stranger offered Harry his hand to help Harry to stand, "Did we surprise you, Harry?"

Harry looked cautiously at the stranger. He knew the Weasleys would never allow someone dangerous there, but the stranger made him a little uncomfortable. "Harry, is something wrong?" the stranger whispered quietly.

"Excuse me, sir, but who are you?" Harry asked.

The stranger looked puzzled. Then he laughed as he touched his face. "Sorry, Harry, I forgot. The name's Sampson Braun. I'm a very good friend of, um, Snuffles. You could say I walk in his skin or fur as the case may be," the stranger said as he took a sip from a flask.

Thoughts of Professor Moody and his flask ran through Harry's mind. Harry smiled, "So, how is Buckbeak doing?"

Sampson smiled, "I knew James' and Lily's brains would come through. I could hardly have come here without this." He held up the flask. Harry smiled again at his godfather and hugged him.

"I'm a bit embarrassed. I figured the Weasleys had something planned. I was feeling more than a little down when I thought everyone had forgotten it was my birthday," Harry told him.

"Aw, poor Harrykins, thought we forgot all about his little birthday," George said ruffling Harry's hair and steering him towards the others.

"0h, Harry, tell us what you've been up to," Lavender said giggling. Hermione rolled her eyes.

Parvati approached Harry and squeezed his upper arm, "Wow, Harry, you look really great. "

Harry searched for Ron, Ginny, or Hermione to get their attention to rescue him from the girls. He noticed that Seamus and Dean were chatting up Ginny who was looking little uncomfortable with the attention. Bethany whispered something to Bill who walked over to his little sister's side. Harry saw Ginny relax as he did this.

"Harry, you've gotten all muscular and handsome," Lavender giggled at him. Harry gave her a half smile but kept looking for someone to rescue him. "How can Hermione share room with them," Harry thought to himself.

Finally, Harry was rescued by Remus Lupin. The girls were obviously uncomfortable by the presence of a former professor, not to mention, a werewolf. They greeted Professor Lupin then left to join Seamus and Dean.

"You're looking well, Harry," Remus said as he smiled at Harry and shook his head as he watched the girls walk away.

"I feel great, Professor Lupin, and, uh, thanks for the rescue," Harry said.

"Not a problem, Harry, I've always been able to clear a room. And it's Remus by the way," he told him and smiled broadly as Bethany approached.

"Remy!" she said and hugged him tightly and kissed his cheek.

"Well, if isn't Mrs. Weasley," he said as he returned the hug and kiss.

"You better watch it. I was almost short one brother who made a similar comment," Charlie said as he greeted his brother-in-law.

"Yes, my little sister was always a liberated one," Remus said. Bethany smirked.

Sirius/Sampson walked up behind Bethany and placed his hand on her waist, "If it isn't little Bethany. I heard you and Charlie here have been playing house. "

"Harry, you actually let people know that this guy is your Godfather?" Bethany said making a face and pointing at Sirius. Harry smiled, nodded and shrugged his shoulders. Bethany shook her head and said, "I think that scar must go clear through to your brain." She turned to Sirius, "Watch your hands! You do know I now have five brothers-in-law and a husband who plays with dragons in his spare time. "

"And, her big brother is a werewolf. Move your hands, Padfoot," Remus said laughing.

"Sorry. Congratulations, Charlie," Sirius said, "You know I was just teasing, right?"

Harry whispered to Bethany, "And Ginny and I thought we had a lot to deal with. "

They both laughed.

"Charlie, is your wife corrupting my godson?" Sirius asked teasingly.

Molly and Penelope entered carrying a platter and appetizers followed by Carlo and T.J., who did the same. Molly placed her tray on the table and made her way to Harry whom she greeted with one of her trademarked hugs. "Harry dear, do you know anything about the owl on our kitchen table?" she asked.

Harry motioned for Hermione to join them. When she did Harry explained, "He is a great horned owl named Amadeus. He is for you and Mr. Weasley. He is a thank you gift from Hermione and me. "

"Oh, you two shouldn't have done that," she said as her eyes started glistening with tears, "We think of you as family. "

"That's just it, Mrs. Weasley, it's because you think of us as family that we felt we should get him. Your family has helped me and my parents adapt to the wizarding world," Hermione said.

"And, you and Mr. Weasley have been like an aunt and uncle to me too. You've always been there for me, sort of like foster parents," Harry said.

Molly Weasley could hold the tears back no longer. She was crying as she hugged Harry and Hermione.

"Great, mum, now that they are family," Bill said with a smile, "They can help de-gnome that garden. "

"Quack! Quack!"

"Oh no!" Hermione said, "George and Fred must have gotten someone. "

"Don't worry, Neville," George said laughing, "It will wear off in an hour or two. "

"Must be the Duckie dreams," Harry said is the walked over to see Neville covered in feathers like a mallard.

Percy could be heard fussing about Neville's change but Neville appeared amused. "Well," thought Harry, "as amused as a mallard could look. "

Ron joined Harry on the way, "Happy birthday, Harry. I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner, but I felt it better if I avoided you this morning. Otherwise I might have given something away. "

"That is all right, Ron," Harry said, "I ran into Ginny this morning and she told me. "

"That's good. You don't mind her tagging along with your runs do you? I can tell her to quit if you want me to," Ron said.

"No, I don’t mind. She and I have been talking more lately. Becoming friends," Harry answered wondering if Ron would question him. Ron wasn’t paying attention. He was staring at the picture of Bethany’s young cousin, Mona.

"She is pretty," Harry said following the track of his friends attention, "but something about her makes me think of the twins."

"What do you mean?" Ron asked glancing only briefly at his friend before returning his focus to the picture.

"Oh, I don’t know. Maybe it is that mischievous, trouble-making grin she has," Harry answered, " Did Herm tell you who we saw today?"

"No, who?" He took one last look and sighed before turning to face his friend, "She said you shopped, ate lunch, and shopped more."

Harry laughed, "Bethany took us to a restaurant, Le Socier something, and Malfoy and his dad were there waiting to be seated when we came in. The hostess practically knocked them over to wait on Bethany. They called her Lady Donnalaith."

Ron looked a little surprised, "So they waited on you before them. I wish I had joined you. It sounds great."

"Oh it was. Not only that but when we came in Malfoy was whining to his father about wanting one of the new Firebolts. His dad told him no because Hermione had higher grades than he did," Harry said laughing.

"I can’t believe he said that in front of you," Ron said.

"They didn’t know that we were there yet. It was right after they said that when the hostess started falling all over Bethany. They gave Bethany the best table in the place. The Malfoys sat right by the kitchen," Harry said and Ron laughed.

Ron’s eyes kept drifting toward the picture of Bethany’s young cousin. Harry looked around. Ginny was talking with Bethany and T.J. Hermione was sitting by the twins having an animated discussion with the one he assumed was George since Angelina was sitting on the lap of the other twin.

He looked back at Ron who was staring at the photo of the pretty young American standing beneath a moss covered oak tree her long red hair blowing in the breeze coming from the nearby lake. "Maybe he isn’t as 'in love' with Hermione as I thought," he shook his head and went to join Ginny.

She smiled brightly as he approached. They brushed hands with one another. "Did we surprise you Harry?" Ginny asked.

"I suspected something, but not this," he answered.

"Bethany was telling me about your lunch. I wish I could have been there. Hermione said you went shopping at muggle stores, too," Ginny said.

"Yes, and when you check your room, you’ll see that your new sister here shopped for everyone," Harry said.

Ginny turned to Bethany, "Oh I can’t wait to see. I’m even too excited to say you shouldn’t have."

Bethany smiled, "Hermione helped, but I promise that before Charlie and I leave, you and I will go shopping."

Mrs. Weasley walked in carrying a large cake with fifteen sparkling candles. The lights dimmed and the candles lit themselves. Everyone began singing ‘For He’s a Jolly Good Fellow’ slightly off tune. Harry blushed but loved it all.

After the cake was devoured, the guests handed him packages to open. Colin Creevey gave Harry a photo album with pictures he had taken last year at school. Lavender, Pavarti, and Padma gave Harry a bottle of cologne and a picture frame with a picture of the three girls. Neville gave Harry a book on magical herbs. Seamus and Dean gave him sweets and a new Quidditch magazine. The twins, Lee and the rest of the Gryffindor Quidditch team that was there carried over a large box.

"I’m afraid to open this," Harry said to George.

"Glad our reputation worries you," he whispered back with a smile.

"It’s okay, Harry. The twins are just carrying it. Katie and I wrapped it. It’s from Alicia too. She said that she was sorry she couldn’t make it," Angelina said as she took the package from Fred and handed it to Harry.

Harry opened the box and looked at his team mates puzzled, "New Quidditch robes?"

"Try the robe on Harry," Katie said. Harry shrugged and complied.

"Oi! Harry, read the back!" Ron said with a beaming smile.

Harry took off the robe and turned it around. On the scarlet flowing fabric in large gold block letters read, ‘GRYFFINDOR CAPTAIN’. Harry’s jaw dropped.

"Is this for real? I thought the twins would…" Harry’s words faded into a large smile.

"We all voted," Katie announced.

George leaned in, "We are all in our seventh year and we knew you’d be great."

"Especially with that insane running you’ve been doing," Fred added, "just don’t go all Wood on us. You’ve corrupted our little sister but don’t get any ideas about the rest of us."

Harry smiled in Ginny’s direction. She smiled back proudly. Charlie clapped Harry on the back, "My gift isn’t much, but it goes well with what you just got."

Harry took an old book from Charlie. He opened it and looked up, "It’s filled with his old Quidditch game plans." Ron took the book from Harry and flipped through it. He frowned at his older brother.

"Well as long as we are on the Quidditch theme, open mine," Hermione said.

Harry opened the replacements for his broom servicing kit and the new practice snitch. "When did you get these?" Harry asked.

"Today while you were buying sweets and I went shopping for ink," Hermione answered smugly.

Percy and Penelope gave Harry a new Eagle feather quill and packets of black ink. "Leave it to Percy to get to get something so practical," Ron said.

Hermione nudged Ron, "It’s nice and Eagle feather quills write elegantly."

"Well here’s mine," Ron said handing Harry a package, "It’s from Bill too." Harry opened the package that held a slightly battered wizard chess set.

"They aren’t new but they’ll be yours and we can have a proper game," Ron said. Harry had always played Ron with a borrowed set of chess pieces and the pawns would tease and the other pieces would scold Harry every time he made a poor move.

The twins set off fireworks and Bethany shooed the younger guests out the door. Ginny remained inside to watch Harry open his last few gifts.

Remus handed Harry a large box, "You may want to save these for later. I wanted to give these to you when I was your teacher, but Dumbledore suggested I wait until you were older."

Harry noticed a melancholy expression on Sirius/Sampson’s face. He opened the package. There were seven leather bound books each with a number on the spine. He pulled out the book labeled with a one and flipped through the pages. It was filled with a childlike script. He flipped though the other books noting a gradually maturing handwriting as the numbers increased. Each entry in the books was signed in the same manner. They all ended with, James H. Potter. Ginny had been reading over Harry’s shoulder and she reached for Harry’s hand.

Harry looked at Remus. "These were my dad’s?" Harry asked with his eyes glistening with tears.

"Your father wrote in those every year at Hogwarts. There is stuff in those that Filch would have given his right arm to find out," Remus told him smiling.

"I can’t believe you gave him those. They are going to get into loads of trouble if they try to do any of the things you did," Bethany said as she nudged her brother, "the Marauders ride again!"

Sirius laughed as he handed Harry his gift. Harry took a deep breath. He wasn’t ready for another gift from the past. He began opening the package and felt a reassuring squeeze on his shoulder. He glanced back and smiled at Ginny. It was a stone bowl filled with a silvery liquid. Ginny looked at it confused. She had never seen Dumbledore’s Pensieve.

"I felt you could use one," Sirius told him.

"Thank you, Siri, I mean Sampson, I think I can use this," Harry said.

The quiet ended as the younger guests all piled into the living room of the tent. The commotion outdoors over.

"Are you still opening gifts?" Ron asked, "You missed a great one. Fred lit a rocket that went through Pavarti’s legs. It was a laugh."

Merrick, Carlo, and T.J. carried in one last gift laughing and joking as they handed the package to Harry.

"You really didn’t have to…" Harry started to say as he opened the package but began laughing as he saw what was in the box. Ginny started blushing beneath her own giggles. The laughter spread when Harry held up a pair of black dragon-hide trousers. A small piece of parchment remained in the box. Harry picked it up and read it.

For best result wear without a shirt

in front of a certain young Weasley female!

Harry blushed as he read the note. Ginny’s face became even redder. Carlo, Merrick and T.J. laughed louder as Harry hurried to hide the note before anyone else read it.

Bethany looked over at her roommates shaking her head, "I don’t even want to ask what the note said."

"Oh, but , Annie," Merrick said, "That made the whole gift."

Carlo called, "Everyone outside. Molly and I have been cooking all day and the food is ready."

As they walked out Lavender said, "Ooh Harry, when are you going to try on your new trousers?"

"Not tonight," Harry answered blushing. Ginny and Hermione giggled.

"So, what did the note say?" Hermione asked.

"I want to know why it made Ginny turn bright red when she read it," George said as he dramatically offered Hermione his arm. Ginny rolled her eyes and blushed again.

"Where’s Ron?" Ginny asked looking around. She saw him enchanted by Mona’s picture.

"Ron," she called, "Get your head out of New Orleans. We are going into the garden to eat."

Outdoors the garden had been transformed into a festive party atmosphere. Fairies lit the shrubs. The tables were laden with food of all types. Plates were stacked at one end for everyone to fill buffet style. Blankets had been laid out for all the guests to sit. Merrick had brought out his piano and was playing several old muggle tunes from the sixties and seventies. Charlie surprised his family when he brought out a twelve string guitar and played along with Merrick.

Molly turned to Bethany and asked, "When did he learn to play that?"

"He probably started playing his first year in Romania. He was quite good by the time I joined them there. Merrick is our resident musical genius. He taught Charlie," Bethany answered.

"Are all these muggle songs?" Arthur asked as he joined his wife and daughter-in-law.

Bethany nodded and hurried to swallow the mouthful of food she had just eaten, "Yes, it’s my fault. I play my father’s old music all the time. They just picked them up I guess."

She smiled as Carlo and T.J. joined them singing the tunes that Merrick and Charlie played. Bill walked behind Bethany and put his arms around her waist.

"He really loves you," he said. His parents smiled.

"I know. I don’t know where I’d be without him," staring in Charlie’s direction. Charlie noticed her watching and winked at her.

"You know he’s very happy, especially now that everything is out in the open," Bill said.

Bethany smiled. "I know it was hard for him not saying anything. I want to do so much for him. He’s given up so much for me already."

"What do you mean, dear, that Charlie has given up things?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"It bothered him a lot to keep things from the two of you. He was really upset that he couldn’t have you at the wedding. But there have been other things," Bethany paused and looked at Bill who nodded her encouragement to continue, "In school, he was asked to be a prefect when we were in fifth year. I was away in the magical exchange program. He turned it down. He told Professor McGonagall that he wanted to be able to focus on Quidditch but he told Bill that he was worried about me and wanted to feel free to leave if I needed him."

"My Charlie was going to be a prefect and he turned it down," Molly said shaking her head.

"Mum, Charlie’s grades were almost as god as mine and he wasn’t in half as much trouble as I had been in school," Bill said, "I don’t think he really regretted it, mum. He always wants to do everything right. He spent most of his year worrying about Beth being away. He couldn’t have done that and been a prefect. It would have upset him more to do a poor job than it would to turn it down."

* * * * *

Ginny walked off from the others toward the woods. Harry quietly followed her. No one noticed either departure as they were all listening to the music. Harry caught up with Ginny and kissed her as they disappeared behind a tree.

"Happy birthday," Ginny said as she handed Harry a rolled parchment. Harry smiled and bit his bottom lip as he looked into Ginny’s eyes.

"Gin, you gave me the perfect gift this morning," he told her as he pulled her back into a hug quickly kissing her again.

"I’m glad, but now you can feel twice gifted. I made this for you the other day," she said as she pulled away just enough to allow him to unroll the parchment.

"Gin, you made this?" Harry said as he unfurled the parchment, "Oh this is really great. It’s the pond and the woods. It looks so real, Ginny."

Ginny smiled, "I wanted it to be more but…"

Harry shook his head, "No, Ginny, this is wonderful. The picture is better even than I remembered it. You have so much detail. I love it."

"I wanted it to give you something special, for us," Ginny said quietly as he wrapped his arms around her again.

"Now I’ll have a piece of you near my heart," Harry said hugging her tightly and kissing her forehead, "and a reminder of something I don’t think I’ll ever forget."

"I know something you could do that I won’t ever forget," Ginny said smiling teasingly.

"Oh you do? What would that be?" Harry asked prepared to give Ginny a more passionate kiss.

"Go try on your new trousers," Ginny said giggling.

"You are worse than Lavender and Parvati," Harry said as he tickled Ginny, "What would your mother think if she heard you?"

"Well, Mum doesn’t need to know everything. Speaking of which, we better get back before we’re missed," Ginny said as she pulled away from Harry. Harry grabbed her hand and held it tightly and continued to lead her back to the garden.

"Um, Harry, they’ll see," Ginny said.

"I don’t want to sneak around, Ginny, I want everyone to know that you are my girlfriend. I think most of your family knows already anyway," Harry said as he lead her back to the garden hand in hand.

Hermione was sitting with Katie, Lee, Angelina, Fred, and George. Ron was near the piano with the rest of the students from their year. Lavender, Parvati, and Padma were giggling trying to catch the eye of the dragon tamers. Sirius was the first to notice Harry’s and Ginny’s return.

He hit Remus on the shoulder. "Moony, what do you make of that?" he said as he pointed to Harry and Ginny.

Remus turned from his conversation with his sister and took in a shallow breath, "For a minute there, Padfoot, I thought that was James and Lily."

"That’s what I thought. Amazing isn’t it. He never said anything to me so I suppose this is a new development," Sirius said.

Bethany smiled and stood, "Try yesterday, officially, but I think there has been something brewing for a while longer, at least in both their minds." Bethany left her brother and joined Charlie. He had handed over his guitar to T.J. Who was singing and playing.

Harry and Ginny joined Hermione and the others. Hermione’s eyes widened and a smile spread across her face as they sat down hand in hand.

"Harry, you’re holding my sister’s hand," Fred said frowning in their direction.

Angelina smiled at Harry and Ginny then turned to Fred, "I think it’s nice. It would be nicer if I had a hand to hold."

"Here, Ang," George said holding out his hand and motioning her toward him. She grinned and began to move in his direction.

"Oh no you don’t," Fred said as he pulled her onto his lap. Then turning to George said, "There are a few things we will never share."

"Harry, earlier Fred said you had corrupted our sister but I do believe it may be the other way around," George said grinning, "You do realize that that is a Weasley’s hand you are holding."

Harry blushed and said, "Thanks George, But I’m well aware of the owner of the hand that’s in mine."

"Ugh, mush," Lee said and Katie shoved him back.

"I’m just happy for you both," Hermione said.

"Trouble with your Weasley, Hermione?" Fred asked.

"My Weasley? If you mean Ron, he and I are just friends and with his new infatuation with a photo it will remain that way," she answered back.

"My little brother is a bit dense," George added smiling at Hermione. George’s ears turned red.

The party continued until late in the evening. The younger party guests flooed home saying their good byes until the start of term.

Harry turned to Sirius for an explanation. "I think you are in for a few surprises when you return to Hogwarts," Sirius told him.

Harry was excited, "Is Remus going to return as the Defense Against the Dark Arts instructor?"

"I’m not saying anything," Sirius said but made a face that indicated that Harry had guessed correctly, "did you enjoy the party?"

"It’s the best party, well only party, that I can remember," he answered.

"Okay, now I have to perform my God-fatherly duty and ask about Ginny," Sirius said grinning, "is it true love or just a summer thing?"

Harry blushed, "I do like her a lot. We’ve talked more in the past few days. I never really thought of her as anything but Ron’s little sister until the end of the school year. This summer I’d be working in the Dursley’s garden and she’d pop into my head. When I saw her when I first got here- well I don’t know."

Sirius laughed, "Just don’t go rushing things if you know what I mean."

"I don’t think we will," Harry said, "I’m enjoying getting to know her."

Sirius shook his head, "Send for me is you need anything." He hugged Harry and Disapparated.

To Be Continued