Connections

Chapter 9: Conflict

Bethany, Carlo, and Mrs. Weasley were putting away the leftover food. Charlie, Bill, T.J. and Merrick were putting the garden back into its pre-party state.

"Do you need any help?" Harry asked.

"No, Harry, the others are inside why don’t you go and join them. We’ll have this all put right soon," Mrs. Weasley said.

Harry smiled when he noticed Penny and Percy walking to the woods where he and Ginny had been earlier.

Inside the living room were George, Ron, Ginny and Hermione. They had been talking about everything they had happened at the party.

"Harry, your party was great. Everyone said they had a good time," Ron said but was interrupted by Fred returning from the fireplace.

"That didn’t take long," George said as he offered his twin a hand to stand.

"Oh, her parents were still up and still in the living room. I don’t believe they appreciated me seeing Angelina home," Fred said.

"Hey George, I thought you and Katie were an item," Ron asked.

"Nah, Katie and I were always just friends," George said as he glanced in Hermione’s direction, "She and Lee have been writing since Alicia has been writing some American wizard."

"I’m heading up to bed," Fred said, "Harry, it was great. I hope you enjoyed it."

Hermione stretched and yawned, "I’m tired, too. I’ll see you later, Ginny."

"Night," Ron called barely glancing in Hermione’s direction.

George grinned and offered his arm to Hermione, "May I escort you to your landing, my Lady?" Hermione giggled and took George’s arm as they left the room.

"What was that all about?" Ron asked but Harry and Ginny just shrugged.

Harry sat down on the sofa next to Ginny and put his arm around her. She snuggled next to him.

"It really was a great party, Harry. Especially because we managed to surprise you," Ginny said.

Ron was staring at his friend and sister. "I’ve missed something, haven’t I?" Ron asked. Ginny shook her head.

"Not sure what you mean, Ron," Harry said as he tried not to laugh.

"Harry, my little sister, Ginny is practically sitting in your lap," Ron said.

"Ginny, what is with your brothers and the need to point out our proximity?" Harry said to Ginny.

"I don’t know, Harry. It must be a new game or something," Ginny said then smirked at her brother.

"Harry, I don’t know about this. We need to talk. Ginny, go upstairs," Ron said angrily.

"You can’t tell me…" Ginny started but Harry stopped her.

"Go on up, Ginny, and you can check on Hermione. I’ll talk to Ron," Harry said.

Ginny smiled and stood. She turned back and bent to kiss Harry on the lips. Harry couldn’t believe it; he knew this kiss was for Ron’s benefit. When she broke away from the kiss she winked at Harry. She swung around and glared at her brother before leaving the room.

"You just kissed my little sister!" Ron said angrily.

"Actually, Ron, she kissed me," Harry said. The annoyance at Ron’s anger was revealed in his tone.

"I don’t like this. I think you need to stop this. She is my baby sister," Ron said.

"I know who she is and she isn’t a baby. She’s only eight months younger than I am. I really am sorry if you don’t like it, but I hardly think you have a say in it," Harry said.

"I can’t believe you’ve been doing things with my sister. I’m sure this is the reason she started running," Ron yelled.

"Ron, what do you think I’ve done?" Harry asked hurt by the insinuation of Ron’s last comment.

"You were running a long time the other day," Ron said, "then you’re kissing her. I don’t want her hurt. What am I supposed to expect?"

"I would hope that you would expect that I would treat her with respect. I would have thought that maybe you could be happy for us both. The last thing I want is for Ginny to be hurt. You know that, Ron," Harry said more exasperated than before. He could tell Ron wasn’t ready to accept this.

"It’s not just you I’m worried about hurting my sister," Ron said, "You didn’t even think about that did you. You just did what you wanted."

Harry took a deep breath. He hadn’t thought about her being a target of Voldemort. He had only considered her as a possible girlfriend a few days. He wouldn’t let her get hurt, he knew that, but he needed her around. He didn’t understand his feelings and surprised himself when he said, "But I love her."

Ron was dumb-struck for a moment but Harry’s declaration only seemed to make him angrier. "I don’t think that matters. If you really did, you’d break it off before it goes any further. You have no business doing anything with my sister. You always have to have everything. It’s just another case of ‘The Famous Harry Potter’ thinking he deserves it all," Ron said glaring at Harry.

Harry couldn’t believe what he had just heard. "Ron has gone too far. He isn’t just worried about Ginny being hurt. Ron is jealous. It probably wouldn’t matter if I dated Ginny or Draco Malfoy," Harry thought.

"Well I know I don’t deserve this!" Harry yelled back as he ran from the Burrow.

* * * * *

The adults had just finished their cleaning tasks. Carlo, Merrick, and T.J. had returned to the tent. Mr. and Mrs. Weasley were sitting in the garden with Charlie, Bill and Bethany. Bethany had told Molly about the items she purchased for the younger Weasleys.

"What did you get me?" Charlie asked grinning like a child at Christmas.

"Charlie, that isn’t polite," Molly said to her son.

"Mum, she’s his wife. He can be rude. It’s his money too," Bill said, "but, uh, Beth, what did you get for me?"

Charlie and Bethany laughed.

"Bill!" his mother said.

"Molly, don’t fuss. I’m used to these two. And, Bill, I did get you something. It’s in your room," Bethany said, "And you know…" She was interrupted by Harry yelling and running from the Burrow.

Harry ran past. Bethany started to stand to go after him. "I’ll go, Beth," Charlie said, "I think he may need a male in this circumstance."

"I’ll go see what the other one has to say," Bill said as he stood, "You know I meant to talk to Ron earlier about all this."

"Now what was that all about?" Mrs. Weasley asked after her oldest sons left.

Bethany sighed. She didn’t want to be the one to tell her mother-in-law about Ginny and Harry, but felt it best she say something. "You are aware that Ginny has had a crush on Harry?" Bethany began.

Mrs. Weasley laughed, "Since before she even started at Hogwarts."

"Harry has decided that he has similar feelings for Ginny. They were holding hands at the party. I’m surprised that you didn’t see it," Bethany said.

Molly shook her head. "I missed it, too," Arthur said, "but I had noticed that they have been together more often lately."

"That must be why she took on so much of the party preparations," Molly said laughing at her self, "and to think I was going to talk to her about moving on and setting her sights elsewhere."

"Are you okay with this?" Bethany asked.

"Harry is already like a member of our family," Molly Weasley said, "He is a nice boy, too."

"Just as long as they don’t have any plans of making this an official legal thing any time soon, especially if they don’t let us know," Arthur said teasingly as he stood and offered his hand to help his wife stand.

"Yes, the only new Weasleys we need for a while are babies and as of right now, you Bethany, are the only one who should be taking on that job," Molly said, "No pressure. You understand, dear."

* * * * *

Bill walked to the top floor of the Burrow. He knocked on the door of Ron’s room but didn’t wait for permission before entering. "Ron, what just happened?" he asked as he sat on Harry’s bed.

"What did he say about it?" Ron asked angrily.

"I don’t know. I came in here to speak with you," Bill said, "You two are best friends. What happened?"

"Did you know that Harry and Ginny are a couple now?" Ron asked not waiting for an answer, "Ginny kissed him on the lips in the living room. I can’t believe Harry would do that to her."

"I’m confused, Ron, you just said Ginny kissed Harry. What has Harry done?" Bill asked.

"He is putting her in danger by dating her. He knows he shouldn’t do that," Ron said.

"Come on, Ron, you don’t think he’s thought about this? Is Harry supposed to go through life and never have a girlfriend or friends for that matter. You realize that our whole family is in danger because Harry is here. You know him being your best friend- the thing he’d miss most- puts our family at risk all the time. Harry can’t let Voldemort rule his life," Bill said noting how Ron flinched when he said the name of the dark wizard.

"I know but it’s Ginny," Ron said.

"Look, Ron, I’m not particularly thrilled that Ginny has a boyfriend either, but I know she isn’t a baby anymore and as girls get older they have boyfriends. Charlie and I both figured that if we had to choose a boyfriend for her that Harry would be on the top of the list," Bill said.

Ron sighed and looked around, "I still don’t like it."

"You don’t have to like it, but you do need to accept it. Ginny has made her choice and she isn’t the type to give in to her families’ wishes. As a matter of fact, if she was dating someone we all hated, our disapproval would only make her more determined to stay with the person," Bill said, "now I think you need to calm down and apologize to Harry in the morning."

Ron looked up at his brother in protest but was interrupted, "Seriously, is your worry worth losing your best friend? Harry knew that you wouldn’t be happy about any of this. He told Bethany he was really frightened about all of us. Hell, I’ve passed over dating girls in Ginny’s position for the same reason," Bill told him, "like I said, calm down. Talk to Ginny when you have and get her side of all this. He doesn’t have her under the Imperious curse or anything. She had a choice in all this."

"But I still feel like he’s just taking advantage of her feelings," Ron said.

"I disagree, and that is why you need talk to Ginny. Ever since Ginny’s first year, when Harry nearly died trying to save her those two have had a bond. Harry told Bethany that he had been thinking about her for quite a while. This isn’t something that just came up," Bill said.

"Ron stared down at his feet. He was considering everything his brother told him. "It’s just not fair. Harry always gets everything. I never have anything to myself," Ron said.

"I can’t believe you just said that. Harry get everything? I think you ought to re-examine your lives. You’ll find that you are a good deal richer than Harry. No, I don’t mean the money. I’m willing to bet that Harry would trade every galleon he has to be in your place. I wonder if you are more worried about Ginny’s safety or the fact that you have to share your best friend with a sibling. Take it from me. You don’t want to lose either. I was the one that introduced Bethany to Charlie. That’s right, she was my friend, my best friend, first. I won’t lie and tell you I never had feelings for her either. There have been many times when I was jealous of their relationship. There was almost a time when I could have changed things. Bethany and Charlie weren’t talking. Hell, Bethany was living with me. I knew that I could have had a wonderful girl, but I would have lost my best friend, my brother." Bill said as he looked out the window in the direction of the tent he now shared with the two people that mattered most in his life. Ron stared. He never knew any of this about his brothers.

"Look, Ron," Bill said, "get some sleep. I’ll have Harry sleep at the tent tonight, okay?"

Ron nodded.

Bill left his brother’s room hoping that he would follow his advice. Ginny was standing outside her door when he arrived on the last landing.

"Ginny, don’t go up there now. I told him to talk to you tomorrow. The last thing we need is for the two of you to have a row. I’m going to have Harry stay the night with me. I’m sure you’ll see him in the morning." Bill said and Ginny nodded sadly and returned to her room.

* * * * *

Charlie caught up with Harry on the trail through his woods. Harry was no longer running but he wasn’t stopping for Charlie.

"Harry, you’re mad at my little brother, not me, so quit running," Charlie said. Harry stopped and sat on a fallen log that rested along side the trail. Charlie sat beside him.

"I can’t believe his nerve. Says I act like I have everything and that I think I deserve everything. He even called me ‘The Famous Harry Potter," Harry told him.

"Well, Harry," Charlie said laughing, "you are pretty famous and I hate to break it to you like this but you are Harry Potter," Charlie said with a smile.

Harry smirked at Charlie, "Doesn’t he know how many times I wished I could be him. Have a family with brothers and parents. I’d certainly give up my money for a family."

"Harry, Ron is still pretty immature. He babies Ginny. He always has. It’s probably his way of making sure we that the rest of us knew he wasn’t the youngest," Charlie told him.

"You know it’s weird but I think he may be jealous that I have a girlfriend and he doesn’t," Harry said as he kicked at a stick with his foot.

"You’re probably right, but he may even be more jealous of your friendship with Ginny. Now he has to share you with another Weasley," Charlie said.

"I don’t know. Maybe I should go back to the Dursleys until term starts or maybe Dumbledore can arrange for me to stay at the Leaky Cauldron again," Harry suggested.

"You’ll do no such thing," Charlie admonished, "You can stay in the tent if Ron continues to behave like a prat."

Harry smiled at Charlie who added, "Besides if you leave, I’ll be short one brother because Ginny will kill him."

Harry laughed, "I just wish he understood."

"Give him some time, he will," Charlie said.

"I guess you’re right. I’m not sure if I understand it all myself," Harry said.

"The best and worst feeling ever," Charlie said chuckling.

"What’s that?" Harry asked.

"Love," Charlie said, "Makes you want nothing else. It wraps you in warmth and it will make you do things you never dreamed you would before."

Harry looked at Charlie. He had so many questions running through his head, but he couldn’t figure out how to ask any of them.

"I’ll be honest. I wasn’t exactly thrilled myself when Bethany said that she had seen you and Ginny kissing," Charlie told him, "I’m still not used to the idea myself."

Harry looked at his feet and bit his lip. "I’m still getting used to it myself. It’s strange. Ginny has had that crush," Harry paused and Charlie nodded encouraging him to continue, "since I met her and I always thought of her as Ron’s little sister. Then this summer at the Dursleys I start thinking about everything that has happened over the last year. I almost ran away. I thought if I left the wizarding world behind that things would be better. I waited outside of the fireplace until the final minute debating over whether or not to go to the Burrow. Do you know what made me come?"

Charlie shook his head as he looked seriously at Harry. He had known that there was something going on the morning that Harry had arrived since Sirius had been there, but they had not explained it to him and Charlie hadn’t asked.

"Ginny," Harry said, "I kept seeing Ginny. I’d be cleaning out a garden and I ‘d see Ginny. Painting the house and I see Ginny. Just sitting in my room and she would come to mind. Well I was sitting staring at the fire with a fist full of Floo powder trying to make a decision about what I would do with my life and it was the image of Ginny that brought me to the Burrow. I didn’t really know her. I didn’t know that she could fly and play Quidditch like she does, that she enjoys poetry, or that she can draw so beautifully. I didn’t realize how smart she was or how much of the Weasley sense of humor she had. When she popped out of her room that first morning and hugged me. I didn’t think I would make it up the stairs. It was like she had called me here the whole time."

Charlie nodded again and took a deep breath, "I know exactly how you feel." He thought about his own wife wondering if Harry and Ginny shared a similar connection.

"I really am just getting to know her as Ginny and not Ron’s little sister," Harry said, "It’s confusing and a little overwhelming, like we are connected or something."

"You and Ginny are connected," Charlie said.

"The Chamber of Secrets," Harry said as he nodded.

"No, I think there is more to it than that. I don’t doubt that what happened in the Chamber had something to do with it. I’ve seen you two together. Even before this summer. I’ve watched you pass a bowl of food to Ginny before she’s asked for it. I’ve seen her do similar things," Charlie said and then explained the magical connection that he shared with Bethany, "It isn’t the same but I do think there may be more there than meets the eye."

Harry thought about everything Charlie had revealed. He could tell that Bethany and Charlie seemed perfectly matched and a magical bond explained that but he hadn’t even noticed some of the things Charlie mentioned about Ginny and him.

"You know Ginny is very sensitive. She always has been able to know things before others. I don’t think she’s a seer or anything. I just think she picks up on the little things before others. I believe her crush may well have been her immature way of dealing with some sort of connection between you two. You may not have picked up on it simply because your attentions were focused elsewhere, like on staying alive," Charlie said yawning, "It’s past my bedtime. Let’s go back to the tent. You can bunk down there for the night. We have to get up for our run in a few hours."

* * * * *

When Harry and Charlie made it back to the tent Bethany and Bill were sitting outside. "Go on in Harry. You can borrow some clothes from the left-hand closet in our room. Get yourself something to change into and take a shower. We’ll be up in a bit," Charlie said as he continued to walk toward his brother and his wife.

"Ron’s a prat," Bill said as Charlie approached.

"Come on Bill tell me what you really think," Charlie said laughing.

"I’m serious. He’s basically jealous of Harry having a relationship and he’s mad that it’s his sister because now he is sharing something with another Weasley," Bill said, the frustration with his youngest brother evident in the tone of his voice.

"That’s what I thought from the talk I had with Harry," Charlie said, "I guess it’s a good thing our baby brother is so easy to read."

"I told Ron to talk to Ginny and to apologize to Harry, and I told Ginny to stay away from Ron until he comes to her," Bill said.

Bethany snuggled with Charlie. "I guess after our run, Ginny and I can have a talk. Maybe prepare her for what Ron might say. We don’t want her to lose her cool, if her temper is as bad as you say, she may just kill him," Bethany said.

"It can be worse with her. She doesn’t explode as easy but when she does…" Bill said.

"She’s a lot like you, Beth," Charlie said as he kissed her on the neck.

"Bill, what’s the matter?" Bethany asked looking concerned.

"Pretty emotional night, I guess. I compared the three of us with the three of them. I told Ron the only right choice he had in the matter was the one that kept both of his friends happy. Ron and Ginny grew up as close as you and I, Charlie, and well, they have an outsider who means the world to them both and so do we," Bill said. His eyes were somber but he looked directly into his brother’s eyes.

Bethany took a deep breath, obviously there had been more to Bill’s feelings than he had ever revealed. Bethany pulled away from Charlie and hugged Bill. He returned the hug tightly and kissed his sister-in-law on the head. Charlie looked on. He knew they loved one another.

"Okay, that’s enough. I’m feeling all lonely over here," Charlie said jokingly.

Bethany pushed Bill toward Charlie, "Here you can hug Bill, too."

"I love you and all, Charlie, but I’m going to get Harry settled," Bill said as he left the two alone.

Charlie grabbed Bethany’s hands and pulled her close. He wrapped his arms around her waist and held her tightly. "I love you," he whispered as he kissed her shoulder at the base of her neck.

Bethany purred, "I love you." She moved his head up to find his lips and kissed him passionately.

Charlie moved to stand behind her. He held her as they watched a meteor shower in the night sky.

"You know, Charlie Weasley, your mother asked me about new Weasleys. She actually said that I was the only one who could take on the job," Bethany said as she pointed out a night bird flying toward the woods.

"She did? Well, I guess Bill will have the pressure off him for a while, but until a baby is placed in her arms we will have no peace." Charlie said laughing.

"That is something to look forward to," Bethany said with a smile, "Do you know she actually said, ‘There is no pressure, dear.’ But implied nothing but pressure to procreate."

"Look on the bright side," Charlie said as he kissed her neck again, "it gives us a ready excuse to practice."

"That it might, but I don’t think we need anymore practice," Bethany said.

Charlie turned Bethany sideways to look in her face, "But it is fun to practice, Beth, don’t you agree?"

"I agree, but we don’t need any more practice," Bethany said as she faced the stars once more.

Charlie turned Bethany around to face him, "What are you not saying, Mrs. Weasley?"

"I was just saying that you need no more practice in the fathering department," Bethany said with a smile.

"You’re pregnant? Bloody hell, when? How long? Why didn’t you say anything?" Charlie said. His eyes were wide and his face beaming.

"Yes. Watch your language. Probably our wedding night or there about. So that makes it about one month. And I only found out for sure today when I went into Diagon Alley," Bethany said answering Charlie’s questions in quick succession.

Charlie just stared for a moment, "I’m going to be a dad." He pulled her close and held her.

"The due date’s in March. St. Patrick’s Day," she told him smiling.

"I can’t believe. I’m so excited. I’m…" he knelt and placed his hand on her belly, "Hello in there, it’s Daddy."

Bethany laughed, "Stand up, silly."

Charlie stood up, "Okay, Beth, let’s go practice for our second baby."

Bethany laughed and walked inside with Charlie, "Okay, but something tells me we won’t need to really practice."

Charlie laughed, "But they do say you can never practice too much."

* * * * *

Harry woke up disoriented. It took him a few moments before he realized that he had slept in the game room of the tent. He looked at the clock on the wall. "Six o’clock, good I’m not up too early," he said to himself as he stretched and sat up. He was tying his shoes when Bethany and Charlie came out of their room.

"Morning Harry," Bethany said, "I thought we might have to wake you."

"I’m used to getting up at this time," Harry answered, "I could use some water, though."

"You know where the kitchen is, Harry, just dig through the cabinets until you find what you need," Charlie said. Harry shrugged and headed down the stairs.

"Bethany, are you sure you should be running?" Charlie asked.

"I am perfectly sure that it is safe," Bethany said, "and if you keep acting like I’m an invalid I will put a memory charm on you so you forget our conversation last night."

* * * * *

Ginny tiptoed from the Burrow at ten minutes after six. She hadn’t heard anyone else awake in the Burrow so she assumed that Harry had slept at the tent like Bill had suggested.

She smiled and quickened her pace when she saw Harry walk out of the tent.

"So what did Ron say last night?" Ginny asked.

"He isn’t thrilled with us. He’s worried about you," Harry said. Most of his anger was gone with his night’s rest.

"Worried about me? What ever for?" Ginny asked angrily.

Harry picked up her hand, "He says that he’s worried that Voldemort might hurt you because you are my girlfriend."

"I’ve never heard him use Voldemort’s name. Ron is just being a prat," Ginny said.

"You’re right. He didn’t say his name, but he did say he thought I hadn’t thought things through properly," Harry said as he pulled Ginny closer, "Of course I don’t think I’ve ever heard you say it either."

Ginny grinned as she asked, "Have you thought things through, Harry Potter?"

"More than you’ll know, Virginia Weasley," he answered enjoying her reaction to his use of her full name. He kissed her.

"So what did you tell Ron?" she asked pulling away just enough to stare into Harry’s green eyes.

Harry stared back. He said the words last night to her brother. It shouldn’t be too hard to say them now. "It’s too soon," he thought, "but what if Ron says something to her?"

"I, um, told him that I love you," Harry said.

Ginny couldn’t believe what she had heard. Her heart was beating as if she had already run. She didn’t know what to do or what to say. She saw the expression on Harry’s face change to one of concern. "You told him THAT. Really?" she asked.

"Yes, Ginny, I did. The only problem is that the only thing wrong was that I think the wrong Weasley heard them first," Harry said as he pulled Ginny’s hand to his lips and kissed it.

"I don’t know. I think that makes it a little more special. Many guys will say the words to girls and not mean it. It’s not everyday that a guy will say those words about a girl to her irate prat of an older brother," Ginny said. She leaned back into him resting her cheek on his chest listening to his own rapid heartbeat.

Harry lifted her chin and kissed her again. "I meant it, Gin. I do love you," Harry said.

"I love you, too," Ginny told him as she kissed him again. The kiss was warm and tender but very passionate.

"Ahem!" they were interrupted by an angry throat clearing. Bethany and Charlie had exited the Burrow.

"Harry, I do believe I could do without seeing you snogging with my little sister," Charlie said.

Harry blushed. Ginny stuck her tongue out at her brother and turned and kissed Harry again, more ardently than she ever had before. Harry was surprised when her tongue played at the part in his mouth. When Ginny felt she made her point she turned and smirked at her brother.

"Now I know exactly why Ron was so upset last night," Charlie said.

Harry couldn’t answer. He was still somewhat overwhelmed but grinned, "Well, Gin, that’s two down, four more to go. I think I could get used to this."

Bethany held Charlie back, "Let’s warm up first. We can give Harry a head start and you can chase him the entire way."

* * * * *

After their run Bethany asked Ginny to join her in the garden of the Burrow where they sat beneath a tree to discuss the recent events.

"Ginny, what do you think of Ron’s reaction to you and Harry?" Bethany asked her.

"He’s a prat," Ginny said.

Bethany laughed, "Well, that’s a well established opinion. Your oldest brothers agree, but do you understand why he behaved the way he did?"

"No, I don’t. I would have thought he would be happy for Harry and me. I’ve been spending more time with them. I’m liable to end up on the Quidditch team with him. It’s not like I’m some stranger that would be taking him away. And you would think he would trust Harry, of all people, with his little sister," Ginny said as she shooed away a garden gnome.

"How much do you know about me and Charlie and Bill?" Bethany asked.

"You met at Hogwarts. You and Charlie are in the same year," Ginny said.

"Bill and I were friends, best friends, first. I met Charlie later through Bill. Bill and I had spent most of our free time together. When I met Charlie it was like we had known each other our whole lives. We became friends instantly and although we still spent time with Bill, Charlie and I spent more time alone together. In my second year Bill needed a date to for the Winter Ball and I went with him. Before Bill and I entered the Great Hall, Charlie, who had come to see us off, and I looked at each other and it was like the rest of the world disappeared. Bill later told us it was noticeable from his point of view. He said it was like electricity connecting us. My grandfather told us a year or so later that we were a part of a magical bond destined long before we were born. Bill still is my best friend," Bethany told her.

"Wow, I never knew," Ginny said, "I figured you and Bill became friends because of you and Charlie."

"I’m telling you this because with everything that happened last night, when your brothers spoke to Harry and Ron they compared what happened with all of us to what is happening now with you and Harry and Ron. It seems that at one time or the other Bill had developed feelings for me more than just the friendly ones and even though he had a chance when he could have acted on them he didn’t." Bethany said.

"So you were with Bill for a while?" Ginny asked enjoying the new information.

"Yes and no. I lived with Bill in Egypt for a while. It was during a time after I had left Europe and was living as a Muggle. Bill convinced me to return to the Wizarding world and suggested I stay with him. Charlie and I had fought horribly and weren’t talking. Bill and I got closer during that time. And I had just about given up on Charlie all together when Bill arranged for Charlie to come to Egypt when he conveniently left to visit home. Charlie and I haven’t truly been apart since," Bethany explained.

"So how is all this supposed to help with Ron?" Ginny asked disheartedly.

"Bill told your brother that his friendship with Charlie and I was more important than a potential relationship with just one of us. I realize it isn’t the same but I think it may help Ron realize that you and he can be friends with Harry. Really he is jealous of the both of you," Bethany said.

"Jealous of what?" Ginny asked.

"He’s jealous of your time with Harry. It’s another thing he has to share with a sibling and he’s jealous of Harry’s relationship with you," Bethany said as she called a gnome closer. It sat calmly beside her.

"Well, he’s blown it with Hermione. She says that she is fed up with him," Ginny said, "but he needs to get a grip if he’s jealous of his best friend is dating his sister because that is just sick."

Bethany laughed, "You had it in the beginning. He’s jealous that Harry has a girlfriend and he doesn’t. It also doesn’t help that his little sister has a boyfriend and he doesn’t have a girlfriend."

"I never thought of it that way," Ginny said as she looked at the fifty or so garden gnomes sitting patiently beside Bethany, "Uh, Bethany, what are they doing?"

"The gnomes?" Ginny nodded when Bethany asked. "They’re waiting for us to finish our chat," Bethany explained as if this were normal gnome behavior.

"Why are they waiting?" Ginny asked more than a little concerned.

"Your mum is always after everyone to de-gnome the garden. I’ve arranged for them to relocate to Charlie’s land," Bethany said then turning back to the topic of discussion, "Listen, don’t bait Ron. Your display this morning for Charlie could have earned Harry a black eye. I know you may feel he deserves it but it will only make it worse. When you do talk with Ron, be calm. Let him know how you feel about Harry. He will come around sooner or later."

"I hope it’s sooner than later. Ron is my brother but he’s my friend, too. And, I don’t like what this is doing to Harry," Ginny said.

"Let Ron know that too. It will help," Bethany said, "Now I need to get these little guys to their new home."

Ginny walked away as Bethany turned her attention to the garden gnomes. She held open the garden gate as all the gnomes filed out of the Burrow’s garden. As the last one exited Bethany went to the head of the line and lead them into the woods.

She brought them to an area surrounded by a low fence. It was filled with flowers. A narrow stream ran through at one corner. The gnomes immediately ran in. The last one bowed before running beneath the gap between the ground and the fence. Bethany laughed out loud and returned back to the tent to shower.

* * * * *

Ginny finished her shower and headed to her room. Her head was still swimming after hearing the words Harry had told her. She found Hermione reading a book.

"Hey, Gin," Hermione said as she closed her book, "What happened with Harry and Ron? Ron is furious and George said that Harry slept at Charlie’s."

"After you went upstairs last night Ron got a little upset because I was sitting next to Harry. We really didn’t think he’d get that mad and sort of pushed it. Ron got angrier and I really kissed Harry before I came up to bed. Ron let into Harry after that," Ginny said smiling.

"Ron can be such a prat sometimes," Hermione said.

"Gee, all we need is for Mum and Dad to vote for Ron as Prat of the Year and it will be unanimous," Ginny said as she continued to smile.

"I don’t mean to complain but you seem awfully happy about all this," Hermione said with a questioning look on her face.

"Well in Harry’s attempts to explain everything to Ron," Ginny paused a moment to add suspense and remember the words again, "he told Ron that he loves me."

"Oh, Ginny, I knew he did. You could read it all over his face last night. He really told Ron? Wow! But for you to know he must have said it to you, too," Hermione said.

Ginny nodded excitedly, "Before our run this morning. It was so nice. Of course Charlie came out and spoiled the moment a bit. I think he and Bill are okay with everything. Last night Charlie talked with Harry and Bill talked to Ron. Bethany and I talked this morning." Hermione was putting her book away as she listened.

"Hey Herm," Ginny said, "You said that George told you about Harry. Since when have you and George been pals?"

"I’ve known George and Fred as long as I’ve known Ron and Harry. With Harry gone and Ron being grouchy and you off running, who else would have told me anything?" Hermione answered.

"I just find it interesting. It seems I’ve seen you two together more often and suddenly your refer to the twins as George and Fred when everyone else talk about them alphabetically," Ginny said grinning at Hermione.

"I think your reading too much into something simple. George and I are just friends. We’ve just gotten to know each other better. Fred is always talking about Angelina," Hermione said then changed the subject, "You haven’t tried on any of your new clothes."

"I haven’t even looked at them yet," Ginny said rushing to the bags. She realized Hermione had changed the subject but decided not to push for the information just yet. She had enough to worry about for now.

* * * * *

Charlie was in the study working on lesson plans for the next term at Hogwarts when Bethany walked in and sat in the chair beside his desk.

"Where have you been?" he asked.

"Ginny and I were chatting. She has a pretty good handle on everything. If Ron can keep from setting her off or vice versa, I think it will all work out soon," Bethany said.

"I hope you’re right. Did you two talk about anything else? You were gone a long while I was getting worried," Charlie asked.

"No, oh, the time. I de-gnomed your mum’s garden," Bethany said as she yawned.

"You do anything I should know about?" Charlie asked laughing, "you understand that de-gnoming the garden is mum’s classic form of punishment for all the Weasleys."

"No I didn’t and your mum will have to find a new punishment. I used my own methods not the standard twist and fling," Bethany said.

"So, Dr. Doolittle, where are all the gnomes then?" Charlie asked.

"I hope you don’t mind but since the land is all yours I created a little gnome garden just for them. They are happily there now," Bethany said yawning again.

"I don’t mind at all. Mum will be thrilled until she figures out that she no longer has a ready punishment for the twins. I’m glad you did it. To be honest I hated when they flung the poor little things anyway," Charlie said motioning for Bethany to sit on the floor in front of him.

She moved between his legs and he began massaging her shoulders. "So when do you think we should tell your mum and dad?" Bethany asked.

"Tell them what?" Charlie asked. Bethany didn’t answer. She turned to face her husband with her eyebrows raised.

"Oh, yes, um soon. Tonight even. She wants us to eat over there. You, Bill and me I mean. She said she wants all the Weasleys under one roof tonight for diner to give Penelope her official welcome. Percy may be making an announcement of his own tonight. It may be better to put it off until tomorrow unless she brings up the subject first. I am not going to lie to them again," Charlie said.

She turned around and climbed onto his lap, "No I don’t think we need to lie anymore but I agree that we should put it off so as not to upstage Percy’s announcement with our own."

She kissed him and stood up. "Where are you going?" Charlie asked.

"To take a nap. Wake me at least an hour before we need to go to your parents house," she told them.

"Are you feeling okay? I don’t want you over doing anything…" Charlie was interrupted by Bethany.

"Accio!" she called and a book flew into her hand. She thrust ‘A Pregnant Witch: Everything You Need to Know to Keep Her from Hexing You- A Guide for Expectant Wizards’ in Charlie’s direction.

"I am just tired. It is very normal at this stage and like I said, you may not remember me if I put a memory charm on you as tired as I am," Bethany said.

"I am just concerned about the two of you. I don’t want anything to happen," Charlie said as he pulled her close, "How about we nap together?"

"Charlie, I need sleep. We were up very late last night and out of bed early this morning. If you want to sleep, come on, but otherwise," Bethany said.

He kissed her and said, "How about I continue your massage and when you fall asleep I’ll come back here to finish up my work."

"That sounds wonderful," Bethany said as she lead the way to her room.

* * * * *

Ginny was in her room trying to decide which of her new outfits she would wear when a knock came at the door. She smiled and thought, "It must be Harry. None of my brothers ever bother to knock." She swung open the door. Her smiled twisted into a smirk. "Great," she thought, "Ron- Just what I wanted. At least he looks scared."

Ron was nervous. He wanted to hear Ginny’s side of the story, but he knew that her temper could be worse than their mother’s could. He looked at the smirk on her face and thought, "Maybe I should just go talk to Hermione."

"What do you want, Ron?" she asked knowing that he was there to discuss her and Harry’s relationship.

"I wanted to talk to you. Can I come in?" Ron said calling on all his confidence. Ginny motioned for him to enter her room and took a seat on her own bed. Ron looked around. Her dresser chair was covered in clothes and she made no effort to clear them off. He didn’t want to sit on Hermione’s bed, but he wasn’t about to sit on the floor while she sat positioned above him. He just stood.

"Well, what is it?" she asked impatiently.

Ron took a deep breath, "I don’t think you and Harry should be together."

"I’m sorry you feel that way," Ginny replied not looking Ron in the eye.

"Shouldn’t you be with someone your own age?" Ron asked as he crossed his arms across his chest.

Ginny put her finger to her head like she was thinking. "No, I should be with Harry," she answered mimicking her brother’s position.

"Ginny, it isn’t safe. Harry is always being chased after by You-Know-Who," Ron said as he relaxed his arms.

"Your friendship with Harry makes our family a target for Voldemort," she paused knowing Ron would flinch when she said the name, "Believe me. I know. I haven’t forgotten my first year. I know you think that there was no thought in all of this, but there was. I’ll have you know, my crush on Harry, that everyone is so fond of discussing, ended before our last school year did." Ron looked doubtful.

"I figured that Harry was never going to look at me as a girlfriend because he wouldn’t want to see me or any other girl hurt. So I decided that I would just be friends with Harry," Ginny explained.

"That certainly doesn’t explain last night," Ron said.

"Ugh! Ron don’t you realize that Harry almost ran away. I don’t mean like you did that time Fred and George turned your teddy into a spider. Harry was thinking of leaving for good. I hadn’t slept at all the night before he came. I kept thinking of him being gone forever living on the streets as a Muggle. That morning when I saw him on my landing, I was so happy to see him. I hugged him. I’m not sure what made me do that, but I did. I know it was the last thing he expected me to do. He hugged back and I could feel the tension and strain flow out of him. I knew right then and there that Harry wasn’t going to let You-Know-Who run his life," Ginny said. She chose not to shock Ron with the word again.

Ron sat on the foot of her bed, "But there is still a risk, Ginny."

"I know that. Are you really ready to give up your friendship with Harry? Should Hermione?" Ginny asked as Ron shook his head in reply, "because I am at no more risk than you are."

"But you are my little sister and you are not just friends with Harry," Ron protested, "Hermione and Harry are just friends. You don’t see them snogging all over the sofa."

"Is that what is bothering you? You are worried that Hermione’s feelings are hurt because Harry isn’t kissing her," Ginny said with a grin.

"Gin! You know that isn’t what I meant," Ron said then mumbled, "that wouldn’t make me any happier."

"So what is it, Ron? Could it be that Harry has a girlfriend or is it just me in particular?" Ginny asked avoiding the topic of Hermione.

"Both," Ron said looking down at his shoes.

Ginny rolled her eyes, "Just what I thought."

"Gin, you’re my little sister. I’m not sure what happened to the rest of the family that they don’t seem to care that you are dating some boy," Ron said.

"Harry is not some boy, Ron. And believe me the others care. If you’d open your eyes you would see that he really cares for me, too. I’m not just a conquest for him. I’m not something he can say, ‘ooh look what I have and Ron doesn’t.’ He doesn’t feel that way," Ginny said.

Ron nodded, "I know. He told me."

Ginny knew exactly what Harry had told Ron and the thought made her heart soar, but she wanted to hear it again, "He told you what?"

Ron was staring at the rug as his foot made tracks in the nap. He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. He looked his sister in the eyes for the first time since he entered her room, "He told me that he loved you."

Ginny beamed when she heard the words. Ron watched her expression change from defiance to joy. He could see that same love mirrored in her brown eyes. "Do you really love him, Ginny?" Ron asked.

"That really is a stupid question, Ron. What do you think?" she countered.

"I just wanted to make sure that you knew that even though he is this big hero and everything that he is still just a fifteen year old boy," Ron said.

Realization slapped Ginny in the face. Ron hadn’t really been that worried about the possibility of Voldemort or even Harry hurting Ginny. Ron was worried that Ginny might hurt Harry.

"I do love him, Ron," Ginny said, "I would never hurt him. I didn’t win a conquest either when he kissed me at the pond the other day. We’ve discussed letting our friendship grow and have decided not to rush the other stuff."

Ron smiled then furrowed his brow with concern, "Isn’t that rushing things a bit to already be thinking about having to not rush things?"

"I don’t know how to explain this. We haven’t talked about everything. When he is around, I feel like I am already holding so much back. It is almost overwhelming. I know that if I let all those feelings go there would be no turning back. To be honest, I feel like I will be with him forever, but I know that I am fourteen and he is fifteen. We are both too young to be making those kinds of decisions. I believe Harry feels the same way," Ginny said then laughed, "I can count the times we’ve kissed on my fingers."

Ron was slightly relieved but wasn’t sure he understood his sister’s strong emotions. He knew he hadn’t experienced anything remotely like that about any girl. "Not even Hermione," he thought. "So I don’t have to worry about being Uncle Ron and having to kill my best friend or anything?" Ron asked with a grin.

Ginny laughed, "I should say not, at least not from me. Now, Charlie and Bethany, well, that is a different story."

"Have they said something?" Ron asked relieved that the conversation had gone well.

"No, but this morning Charlie was different around her. He was more gentle and concerned," Ginny answered, "and Bethany didn’t seem too happy about it either."

"You really think she might be pregnant?" Ron asked.

Ginny nodded, "Shh, but don’t say anything. They’ll say something when they are ready. Besides, I think the next big announcement will be about Percy and Penelope."

"I’m not a prat. I knew Percy is going to make an engagement announcement. I think Perce planned to say something yesterday but had forgotten about Harry’s party," Ron answered.

"About Harry, are you okay now?" Ginny asked timidly.

Ron nodded, "I still want to talk to Harry. I’m not exactly sure I like him snogging my little sister. And please, no more details the entire idea gives me the creeps," Ron said, "At least he hasn’t had any other girlfriends. It would be nauseating to think of him doing what he had done with some other girl with you. This way I just don’t have to know," Ron said with a shudder.

Ginny laughed, "I’ll try to restrain myself in the future, but you will see us sitting next to one another and holding hands. You might walk into a room and witness us hugging or even kissing if you aren’t careful. I can assure you that you shouldn’t see anything more, at least not in the immediate future."

Ron shook his head and smirked, "Ugh, details! I don’t suppose I have much say in the matter."

"No, Ron, you don’t. You never did, but it is nice to know that you won’t attack Harry every time you see us together," Ginny said then added, "Now get out. I need to choose what I’m wearing tonight." Ron rolled his eyes and departed.

* * * * *

"You coming, Harry?" Bethany asked. It was near dinnertime and all the Weasleys had been ordered to the Burrow for a family meal. Molly had sent messages about the meal to the tent with her new owl three times that day. Bethany had teased Charlie earlier telling him that the poor thing was going to be no better than Errol in a few months if she kept using it so much.

"I, um, thought it was just a family thing. All the notes said just the Weasleys," Harry answered. Harry had spent the day at the tent. Ginny, Hermione, and the twins had all visited there. He had not seen Ron since their argument.

"Harry," Charlie said, "you might not have the red hair or the freckles of a Weasley, but I assure you that mum and dad meant for you to be included as family."

"It’s just that all the letters emphasized just the Weasleys. I figured that with Ron mad and all that maybe," Harry answered his voice becoming softer as he finished his statement.

Charlie shook his head, "I have a question for you. How many jumpers has mum knitted for you?"

Harry looked puzzled, "Four. She’s made one for me since my first year at Hogwarts."

"Well, there you go. You don’t get a Weasley jumper unless you are a Weasley or an honorary Weasley," he said as he ruffled Harry’s hair.

Bill entered the room, "And if we don’t hurry, Mum will kick us all out of the family. We are already late." He held the door opened and offered his arm to Bethany.

Charlie laughed, "Yes, she may just roast us. Harry, Ron is the only one who is overreacting to all of this and he’ll come around." Charlie stopped in the kitchen to pick up two bottles of wine Bethany had purchased to bring to the meal. "I think the non-Weasleys Mum wanted to leave out were my housemates. If I’m not wrong, this meal is for Percy’s and Penelope’s benefit, and that girl is shy enough that making an engagement announcement in front of all us is going to be bad enough for her without having to worry what Merrick would tell them," Charlie said as they walked across the yard.

Ginny was waiting on the back steps of the Burrow, "Harry, it’s about time. I was beginning to worry that you would skive off because of Ron. Mum would be very disappointed if you weren’t here."

Harry smiled but Charlie said, "Gee, a couple for a few days and she’s already treating you like a wife." Bethany was standing in the doorway. Her right eyebrow was arched and she wore a not too pleased smirk. "Oh, hi, Love," Charlie said as he revealed his dimples. She loved when he flashed her a big smile.

"You just keep smiling. Those dimples may be the only thing that saves you Charles Logan Weasley," Bethany said. Harry and Ginny giggled when they saw Bethany pinch Charlie’s behind as he walked past her.

"Hey, no fair," Charlie said as he spun around. Bethany just grinned.

Bill walked through, "will you two ever grow up and quit horsing around?"

Harry’s jaw dropped as Bethany pinched Bill’s behind, smiled mischievously, and said, "No, we can’t."

"Charlie, can’t you control her?" Bill asked as he made a face at Bethany.

"Stupid question," Charlie said as he smiled at Bethany, "of course, I can’t."

"Smart answer," Bethany said.

"Suck up," Bill retorted.

* * * * *

They entered the dining room. It had been magically enlarged to hold all of the Weasleys and their guests, but it would still be a tight squeeze to get all thirteen people inside. Mr. Weasley was already sitting at the head of the table. Percy, sitting to his father’s left, was obviously nervous as he chatted quietly to Penelope who looked as though she may become ill. Bill sat to the right of his father. Harry sat beside Bill and Ginny next to him. Fred entered noisily and sat beside Penelope. He offered her a Fantastic but Ginny shook her head rapidly and Penelope refused.

"Spoil sport," Fred said making a face at his sister.

George sat next to his twin and grinned broadly as Hermione entered the room. He moved the chair to his left out for her to sit. Harry and Ginny looked at one another with raised eyebrows as Hermione said, "Why, thank you, George."

"Fred, what did our sister do this time?" George asked.

"She encouraged Penelope to be rude and refuse a sweet I politely offered," Fred answered.

George frowned at his sister then laughed when Hermione had playfully hit him on the arm, "Uh, well, Mum probably would have your hide if she had eaten it."

"Don’t worry," Percy said, "She remembers you two from school and I’ve warned her not to take any food from anyone younger than herself."

Charlie entered laughing, "That’s probably the only safe thing to do, but, George, Mum would have hided you both."

Bethany entered shaking her head as she sat beside her spouse, "And, Bill thinks our team teases each other."

Molly called toward the stairs, "Ron, hurry now. Everyone is here but you." Molly placed a bowl of food on the table.

"Molly, do you need any more help?" Bethany asked.

"Yes dear, can you get glasses from the cabinet so we can serve the wine you brought," Mrs. Weasley answered. Bethany opened the door and twelve small glass goblets floated to the table resting themselves in front of each place but her own.

Ron entered quietly and smirked in Harry’s direction. He frowned as he sat beside Hermione who hadn’t even turned in his direction. She was talking to George.

The meal was served in the usual Weasley free-for-all manor. Bethany smiled at Penelope’s reaction to it all but remembered that she had been surprised by her housemates eating habits at first, too. The dinner conversation was light. The twins managed to avoid any pranks throughout the meal.

As desert was being served Percy tapped his water glass to gain attention, an action he hardly needed to do for the small gathering.

"I have an announcement," Percy began.

"You’ve quit the Ministry," Fred interrupted with a grin.

"And are going to be a Muggle rock star," George added with a snicker.

"No, he’s going to join a Muggle motorcycle gang and Penelope is going to be his biker chick," Fred said turning to his twin and laughing.

"Mum," Percy whined, "do something with them!’

"The garden. Both of you. Tomorrow. De-gnoming!" Molly sputtered out her punishment.

Bethany was about to speak up about permanently de-gnoming the garden, but Charlie shook his head. "They’ll owe us," he whispered. Bethany shook her head in return.

"Carry on, Percy," Arthur said as he looked over to the twins with his eyebrows raised to indicate that the teasing was to stop.

"As I was saying, I have an announcement," Percy began but paused to provide drama to the announcement, "Penelope and I are to be married this November." He smiled proudly as he took her hand.

"George, you owe me a galleon. I told you genius and insanity go hand in hand," Fred said as George laughed and nodded. Molly Weasley’s face turned red.

"What, Mum?" George asked innocently, "We’ve lived with him for almost eighteen years and we’ve tried to get rid of him for at least the last fifteen. Penelope just volunteered to live with him for the rest of her life."

"That’s just nutters," Fred said as he turned to Penelope, "So when was your last visit to St. Mungo’s?"

"You insolent little brats," Percy said has his face reddened with anger.

Bill laughed, "Welcome to the family, Penelope. Don’t mind them. They can be annoying but mum makes sure they have their shots every year."

"Wow, Penelope, I’m glad your going to be a Weasley. I can certainly use some help in the estrogen league in this house," Ginny added.

"Congratulations to you both. You look very happy together and that is so important," Bethany said, "And in my short experience as a Weasley, I’ve learned that dealing with those two is well worth being in the family." She pointed to the twins who mocked insult then continued, "I’m sure you will feel the same, eventually."

"Congrats, Perce," Charlie said, "It’s a big step, but one I wouldn’t have missed for anything."

"Yes, this is happy news," Arthur said, "And, Percy, they tell me that you have also been given a bit of a promotion at work."

"Yes, sir," Percy answered, "I’m being transferred to the Office of Improper Use of Magic, Juvenile Division in September."

"Oh that is good, much better hours for a new family," Arthur said.

"And should come in handy for Harry should Dobby try to help him out again," Hermione said and snorted trying to hold back laughter.

"Did you just snort?" George asked grinning. Hermione’s face reddened.

"I’m so excited but November doesn’t allow much time for planning," Mrs. Weasley said.

"I know, but Percy and I would both like something small, just family and a few close friends," Penelope explained, "My family, being Muggles, aren’t the most supportive. So we really can’t afford that much. We have written to Professor Dumbledore to ask if we could hold the ceremony and small reception at Hogwarts."

Molly smiled sympathetically. Her heart ached for her future daughter-in-law, "That sounds lovely dear, you let us know and we will do what ever we can to help."

"Wow in November there will be eleven Weasleys" Hermione said.

"Yes, Bill, by November, two of your younger siblings will have beaten your scrawny butt to the alter. When is it that we can expect to hear an engagement announcement from you," Bethany teased.

"Yeah, big brother, when will the wedding bells chime in your direction?" Charlie added as he grinned.

"Oh, Bill, do you have a special girl?" their mother asked excitedly. "It isn’t that I’m not pleased with Charlie and Bethany, but I don’t want any more of my children running off and eloping behind my back."

"Well, mum, we can hardly run off and elope in front of your back," George said with an innocent grin.

Bill’s ears were beginning to turn red. He had always been the hardest to tease. He would rarely show the others any reaction. The change in color to his ears signaled the twins to begin teasing.

"You know, George and I were just saying how we have always dreamed of attending your wedding, Bill," Fred said.

"So is Fleur ready to tie ze knot?" George asked imitating her French accent.

"That is enough. No, I don’t have a special girl, mum. And, as a matter of fact I was planning on marrying sometime after Charlie marries his second wife," Bill said angrily.

"Now, Bill, that is not nice," his mother corrected.

"Mum, the two of them will never split up. I think the question of the night," he paused as he grinned at his brother and sister-in-law, "is when you can expect grandchildren?"

He leaned forward so he could look at Bethany, "Pay back is hell, Beth."

The twins jumped on the chance to tease their new sister-in-law. They had no allegiances when it came to making a sibling squirm.

"Oh, the pitter-patter of little feet," George added.

"Another little red-head to snuggle with. Do you think your baby will have Charlie’s dimples? You know the ladies love those dimples," Fred said.

Penelope watched the exchange with wide-eyes. The Clearwaters were nothing like the Weasleys.

Bethany smirked toward the twins then whispered to her husband, "remind me to re-gnome your mother’s garden." Charlie laughed.

"Well, Charlie, I know it is early but have you and Bethany given any thought to when you will be starting your family?" Molly asked as Bill tried to stifle his own laughter.

"Yes, Mother, the topic has come up," Charlie answered as he turned to look at Bethany who was also giggling.

"When are you planning? A year? Two?" Molly asked as if this were a normal topic of conversation in front of so many witnesses.

Bethany looked at Charlie again. He winked and squeezed her hand before Bethany turned to face her mother-in-law and said, "Actually we were thinking maybe, March."

"Oh that is so nice that you are starting to plan a family so soon," Molly answered.

Bill hadn’t heard anything his mother had said. He was out of his chair and at Bethany’s side, "I can’t believe you didn’t tell me."

"She only told me yesterday. And, I would be more than a little upset if she had told you she was pregnant before she told me," Charlie said with a grin.

"Oooohhh!" Mrs. Weasley began screaming as she jumped up to hug Charlie and Bethany.

Percy was pouting a bit but Penelope was smiling. Charlie made a mental note to talk to his brother. It had not been their plans to overshadow his announcement.

Everyone offered their excited congratulations. Bethany added, "Please don’t pass on the information yet. I haven’t told my brother yet. And I’d like him to hear the news from me not through the grapevine."

"This is just the happiest day for the Weasleys. This is much better than our lucky trip to Diagon Alley," Mrs. Weasley said, "Penelope will be joining us in the fall and before spring we’ll have a new baby." She began to cry.

"Bethany, I just thought, you can’t take that job," Bill said worriedly, "not in your condition."

"Would you rather I return to the forest of Romania?" Bethany asked but did not allow him to answer, "William Arthur Weasley, don’t you try to become all over-protective. I will have more than enough from Charlie."

"The formal name," Charlie said, "Bill, I don’t see the job as too dangerous. Yeah I know, I play with dragons for fun, but I’ll be there and so will Carlo, Merrick and T.J. Not to mention another team of five dragon handlers, and her brother and her grandfather and a whole slew of over-protective house elves."

Bethany looked over at Charlie and made a face, "Gee, when you put it that way maybe I will go back to Romania. You can teach my classes, too."

"Your classes?" Ron asked, "Are you going to be at Hogwarts?"

Bethany smirked guiltily at herself as she realized her own slip. "Yes, Ron," she answered, "I’m taking over the Care of Magical Creatures course."

"What about Hagrid?" Harry asked.

"Dumbledore has sent him on a diplomatic mission," Bethany replied laughing a bit at her last statement. It did seem a bit odd to think of Hagrid and diplomacy at the same time. Harry nodded. He remembered that Hagrid was to meet with the giants, but had assumed he would be back for school.

"Charlie, what are you going to do at the school?" Ginny asked.

"Madam Hooch has retired. I’m taking over flying lessons and Quidditch. And Bethany and I will both be teaching a new Advanced Care of Magical Creatures course that is being offered only to fourth years and up," Charlie answered.

"A new advanced class? What will it be like?" Hermione asked.

"Yes, do tell her. Hermione will want to start studying now and if it means tons of homework she’ll sign up right away," Ron teased. Hermione smirked back at him.

"Well it will be taking care of some dangerous beasts," Charlie began.

"And that is going to be different from Hagrid’s classes how?" Fred asked as the students all laughed.

"It will be mainly dragons. And, you’d be smart to take Hermione’s example because you have to take an entry test and only the top twenty students will be accepted," Charlie answered as he looked at his youngest brother.

"A test?" Hermione said worriedly, "What type of test?"

"A little of everything about dragons will be covered. So it would definitely do for you to all spend a little time studying if you want to take the class," Bethany said.

"Do you have a book or something I can use?" Ron asked quickly.

"Since when have you started studying?" Fred asked, "Why not just have Hermione tell you all about them?" George kicked his brother not too subtly under the table.

"Fred, if your brother has an interest, let him be," Mr. Weasley said.

"Actually a package should be arriving soon with seven copies of the latest primer on dragons," Bethany said.

"Why seven? There are only six of us here at Hogwarts," George asked.

Charlie was blushing as Bethany said, "I got a copy for your mother."

"On dragon-taming? Bethany, I’m sure it is very interesting but," Mrs. Weasley said.

Charlie’s face was redder, "Well, Molly, you’ll like this book. After all, you know the author." Bethany pointed to her husband and smiled proudly.

"Oi, Charlie, that’s great!" Ron said excitedly.

"Will you autograph mine?" Ginny teased.

"Hey, Charlie, you won’t make us answer your fan mail will you?" Hermione asked with a giggle.

George looked at her appraisingly and said, "Good one, Herm."

"Oh, don’t remind me about Lockhart," Harry said with a grimace.

"Dragons at Hogwarts. What is the world coming to? I just don’t think this it is wise. The children could get hurt. You shouldn’t be encouraging them," Percy said.

"That is what the test is for, Percy. No student will take the class who isn’t prepared ahead of time," Charlie countered.

"I still think it is dangerous. The children could get hurt," Percy reiterated.

"What children are you worried about, Percival?" George asked as he glared in his older brother’s direction.

"They said only fourth years and up could even try to get in," Fred said.

"I was referring to you all. Charlie knows the dangers of the dragons, you children do not," Percy said.

"Did he just say he was referring to us?" Fred asked George.

"I do believe that is what he said," George answered his twin, "And, I can’t wait until I’m two years older so I can be full fledged adult."

"Ron, do you need your nappie changed?" Fred asked. Ron rolled his eyes.

"Ginny, do you need a bottle?" George asked.

"Perhaps we should put you two in a play yard," Bill said.

"The students will be safe unless they do something stupid," Charlie explained, "There will be ten of us to twenty of them and they won’t go near the dragons until after they’ve passed the test and learned the theory."

"Besides, Percival and Berta are very tame," Bethany said, "They’ve been raised by humans from eggs."

"Percival?" Ron laughed, "You have a dragon named Percival?"

Bill started laughing, "Charlie named him and I thought he was a bit off until I got to meet the dragon on a visit. When you see it pout you’ll know exactly why it shares a name with our brother." Everyone laughed.

"Come, Penelope," Percy said as he glared at Charlie and offered his hand to his fiancé, "Let’s go for a walk or something. There is a nice path in the woods."

"You said they were both raised from eggs," Harry said, "Do you still take care of Norbert?"

"Funny you should ask, Harry, but Norbert wasn’t a he. Norbert is a girl so we had to change her name. We call her Berta. And she and Perce are rather docile and used to human companionship," Bethany explained.

"But wouldn’t that mean we wouldn’t learn how to deal with wild dragons? How are we to experience normal dragon behaviors?" Hermione asked concerned.

"Good thinking, Hermione, but once the students in the class learn to handle those two we will bring in wild dragons," Charlie explained.

Bethany stood as the others continued to ask Charlie questions. She began to gather empty dishes but Molly stopped her, "You don’t need to do that. You need your rest. I know how tiring it can be at this stage. Go on and rest. I’ll finish up here."

* * * * *

Bethany, Charlie and Bill left after thanking the Weasleys for the meal. They walked through the garden to the tent. Bethany nudged Charlie and pointed out the distant silhouette of Percy and Penelope walking hand and hand near the woods. She smiled as she watched them stop and kiss.

"I still can’t believe you didn’t tell me I was going to be an uncle before you told the others," Bill said.

"Like I said earlier, I only found out myself last night, and we hadn’t planned on making the announcement tonight. We wanted Perce to have his spotlight," Charlie said, "but we both agreed that we wouldn’t lie about it. We said if mum asked we would tell her. We didn’t figure she would ask tonight though."

"So are you going to name it after me?" Bill said with a grin then ran to be out of the reach of Charlie’s half-hearted punch and Bethany’s kick.

* * * * *

The younger Weasleys, Harry and Hermione all went into the front room to chat. They were all excited about the news they had learned that evening.

"I can’t believe we’ll get to see Charlie and Bethany all year," Ginny said.

"Well do you know who is teaching Defense Against the Dark Arts this year?" Harry asked.

"How do you know who it’s going to be?" Ron asked.

"Because after my party when Remus left he said he would see me sooner than I thought. I asked Sirius. He didn’t tell me for sure but he didn’t deny it either. He said we were in for a lot of surprises at Hogwarts. So I guess he meant Charlie and Bethany too," Harry answered. Then Harry thought, "Hey, Ron just talked to me."

George sensed the tension of the moment and said, "Let’s go outside, I still have some Filibuster Fireworks left." He then whispered in Fred’s ear, "Get Ginny so Ron and Harry can talk."

George whispered in Hermione’s ear and Fred signaled Ginny and the four of them left the room quickly. Harry stood to follow them.

"Harry, hold up. We need to talk," Ron said.

"The last time I tried to talk to you…" Harry began but Ron interrupted him.

"I was a prat. I’ve heard it is a unanimous vote," Ron said. Ron’s statement surprised Harry. He didn’t answer, but he sat down to hear his friend out.

"I won’t lie and tell you that you dating my little sister doesn’t bother me. I’ve talked to her and I told her that I would talk to you," Ron said.

"I’ve told you how I feel about her. I don’t know what more I can say," Harry said.

"When did it change? You never mentioned liking any girl other than Cho," Ron asked.

"I’m not really sure exactly. I didn’t put anything together until this summer," Harry said.

"When did you start thinking of her as, well, a girl?" Ron asked.

Harry laughed, "Since the first time I met her in the train station our first year."

"Come on, you know what I mean," Ron said.

"I guess when I saw her at the Yule Ball with Neville. I mean I always knew about her crush and to be honest that was very embarrassing having your best friend’s little sister acting that way. But at the Yule Ball I realized there was maybe more to her than just being your little sister. And this summer, she just kept popping into my head. You know I almost didn’t come. I kept going back and forth about what I’d miss in this world. I knew that if I left I would miss you all but that it would keep you and Hermione safe. But her face kept running through her mind. Ron, I think the reason I decided to stay in the Wizarding world was to get to know Ginny. If I hadn’t I would have always wondered what if. I decided to fight for my life. Not my survival but to live. It was thoughts of her that gave me the courage to battle for a normal existence. I know I can’t live my life thinking about what might happen," Harry didn’t cry but he had tears in his eyes. He ran his fingers nervously though his hair. He wiped his sweaty palms on his trousers, took a deep breath and continued, "I can’t explain how, but I feel like we are connected some how. Ginny said that this summer she would suddenly start thinking of me. She would picture me doing the chores around the Dursleys. She described things exactly. And the funny thing is at the same times she mentioned it I would be thinking of her. When she popped out of her room and hugged me on the landing. I felt comfortable and warm and safe. For the first time I felt like I was at home."

Ron nodded his head. He was still trying to grasp the meaning to all of this, but he knew Harry was sincere. If there was one thing he knew about Harry Potter, it was that he could never bluff.

"I don’t ever want to hurt Ginny. I find myself wondering why this didn’t happen sooner, but in a way I think it needed to be at this time. It feels like it has happened so quickly and I have to keep reminding myself that it is new," Harry said, "Ginny and I have both agreed to take things slowly. We both want to be friends."

"That is what she said. She does seem to really love you," Ron said, shocking Harry again, "It’s not like her crush anymore. I saw it in her face when I told her what you said." Harry shook his head in amazement. He didn’t know what else to say.

"I don’t know why I got so upset. I don’t know if it was that it was you with my sister or with anyone," Harry just nodded as he listened to Ron, "I think some part of it had to do with me and Hermione."

"What do you mean you and Hermione?" Harry asked.

"In the time it took for you and Ginny to become a couple. Hermione went in the opposite direction. I thought that when she arrived we would, you know, start dating, but I don’t think we ever will. I guess I was jealous because I had thought I’d have a girlfriend first," Ron answered.

"You and Hermione aren’t fighting are you?" Harry asked concerned. He had noticed that Hermione barely noticed Ron at the table. They were curt with one another during the meal but that was how they acted all the time.

"No. That’s just it. She avoided taking sides in our conflict because I think she understood us both," Ron answered, "It’s strange. I’ve spent a lot of time thinking this weekend and I don’t really think I’m upset that she and I won’t be a couple as long as we are still friends." This was the third time in their short conversation that Ron had shocked Harry with his insight.

"Ron, are you okay with Ginny and me?" Harry asked.

"I’ll tell you like I told her. The thought of you, anyone, and my sister just gives me the creeps. So you are under strict orders not to share any details," Ron said, "And, I could really do with not seeing you kiss the way you did last night."

"Well, I won’t say I didn’t enjoy it but I do believe that Ginny did that for your benefit. She only did it one other time and that was because Charlie reacted a bit like you did," Harry said.

"Details, Harry, details," Ron said as he made a frightened face. His true emotions betrayed by the smile that broke through.

"I do have to say this. I think you are nutters. Ginny is Ginny after all," Ron said.

"That’s what I like about her," he said, "but I will talk to her about discretion if you don’t get upset if you see us holding hands and sitting beside one another."

They stood and after an awkward moment Ron punched Harry on the shoulder.

"I guess we should go rescue the girls from the twins," Ron said.

"I’m all for saving Ginny. She is probably worried anyway, but, um, since you mentioned that you and Hermione wouldn’t be a couple I don’t mind saying that I don’t think Hermione will be in a hurry to be rescued from George," Harry said.

They watched the antics out the window of the back door. "You noticed that too?" Ron said then added, "Ginny does look worried. We better hurry."

Harry and Ron smiled at each other before joining the others outside.

To Be Continued...