A/N: Sorry for the rough read at first. Site wasn't recognizing my breaks. Thank you to J. Jamie Dupane for pointing that out. I have take a few minutes and edited the whole story with a couple of other little tweaks here and there. Thank you for the R/Rs.

Chapter 1: Talking Through Embarrassment

Harry Potter sat on his bed in Ron Weasley's room lost in thought. He and the rest of the Weasleys had returned to the Burrow from Diagon Alley several hours ago, but he could not stop thinking about what happened when they were leaving the bookstore. Draco Malfoy had been his obnoxious self, as always, but Ginny's reaction to him and his comment about Ginny being his girlfriend had been weighing on his mind since. On one hand, she was his best mate's younger sister. On the other, she had a crush on him. Still he barely knew her, because she would not stay in the same room with him, except at meals, for longer then ten seconds before running away with a red face and a squeak since he had arrived at the Burrow. Yet there was something there that he was not sure what it was. From the first time he had seen her on the platform last September, and then when he arrived at the Burrow, she had intrigued him in a way he never had been before. He needed to get to the bottom of these feelings, and the only way to do that was to get Ginny to talk to him without running away.

Harry looked at Ron, who was reclined on his bed reading a Quidditch magazine. A thought occurred to him suddenly, and a plan quickly formed in his brain. He knew he couldn't tell Ron where he was going. Ron would think he had gone mental. Harry stood, thinking of an excuse quickly and said, "I gotta go to the loo."

Harry walked out as Ron just nodded at him. He walked down the stairs to the next floor, making it sound like he was on his way to the bathroom. Harry then quietly made his way down to Ginny's room. He paused at her door, and took a deep breath. It was now or never. The curiosity was killing him. He knocked and waited.

"Come in," he heard Ginny call.

Harry entered the room, quickly looking back into the hall to make sure no one was watching. He closed the door quietly and stood in front of it. Ginny was sitting at her desk and had not even looked up from her Charms book when he entered. Harry stared at her for a moment. Now that he could see her sitting there he could see her clearly. Her hair was long and fiery red, and he suddenly felt enchanted by it, and for some odd reason wanted to run his fingers through it. He shook his head to clear those thoughts for another time.

"Hi," Harry finally said. Ginny jumped, startled. The quill she had been using for practice with, came flying out of her hand, embedding in the wall next to Harry. Her head swung around quickly to look at him and immediately her face turned as red as her hair. Her expression was one of shock and terror, her eyes wide. Harry noticed her eyes were a rich chocolate brown and sparkled in the light. He smiled at her. "Calm down. I need to ask you something, and since you keep running away I figured this was the best way to do it."

Ginny squeaked, burying her face in her hands, almost falling out of her chair. Harry sighed, pulling the quill out of the wall. This was going to be harder than he thought.

"Look, I'm not that boy from your books and stories," Harry said gently, being mindful of her feelings for him, carefully handing the quill back to her. "I'm just Harry. I hate all the attention I get from people. I don't like my fame. I don't really want to be famous."

Ginny slowly looked up, her face still red. She looked at him taking in his real appearance for the first time since Kings Cross last year. His messy black hair, his thin frame, those gorgeous green eyes. Then she saw him smile at her as the blush faded from her cheeks. "That's better," he said. Harry pause for a minute, staring at her. It was his first good look at her face in almost a year. "You really are quite cute, with or without the blush."

"Thank you," Ginny said shyly. She swallowed hard as she looked past all the made-up images she had of the book and story Harry that was her basis for her crush. Here was a boy, a young wizard, not much different then her or her brothers. His clothes were deplorable, but she just glanced at them. His eyes caught her yet again. Those shining emeralds were her downfall. They were so deep and expressive. She could get lost staring into those green orbs. At the moment they were full of curiosity, not longing for adventure. There was also a hollowness and sadness that went very deep into his very soul that she wanted to take away. "You have such gorgeous eyes," she said, finally in a normal voice that even surprised her.

"Thank you," Harry said. "I've been told I got them from my mum." The sadness was clear in his voice.

"I'm sorry. I didn't…" Ginny started quickly, feeling ashamed at making his voice sound so sad.

"No, it's okay," he smiled again. "Really."

"What would you like to know?" Ginny asked, changing the subject to help get the sad look off his face.

"Why did you stand up to Malfoy like that earlier?" He took a deep breath. "No one has ever done that for me before." The sad tone back in his voice, but it was not as strong.

"I think you know why," Ginny said blushing again as she looked away.

"The crush you have on the hero from your books?" Harry asked, shaking his head. "I'm not him. I'm just Harry."

"I know that now," Ginny said quietly.

"Well, then why all the red faces and running away? Even when I've tried to talk to you."

"Because I still like you," Ginny almost whispered. Harry had to smile.

"Like as in friend, or as in crush?" asked Harry still smiling at Ginny.

"Yes, as in crush," she said as her face flushed again. "At first, it was with the boy from the stories, but then I took a good look at you on the Platform when school let out and I saw, I felt, something else. And I knew I wanted to get to know the real you, but I just keep embarrassing myself."

"Like with butter dishes?" he chuckled. Ginny's head swung to face him with an angry look until she realized he was just teasing her to break the embarrassment.

"Yes. Not one of my best moments," she sighed, blushing.

"I actually found it sweet that you were so wrapped up in staring and thinking of me that you weren't paying attention to anything else," Harry smiled again. Ginny smile, blushing a little more. "Another first for me."

"What do you mean?" Ginny asked, looking a little confused and concerned, the blush receding slowly.

"I live with my horrible Muggle relatives, that don't care about me, let alone love me. They don't call me by my name, just 'boy' or 'freak'. For the first ten years I lived there, my bedroom was the cupboard under the stairs," Harry answered, not sure why he had let it all out like that. There was just something about Ginny that made him feel comfortable and safe. "They treat me like I'm a burden, but all they give me are hand-me-downs from Dudley and barely feed me. Until I met Ron and your family, I never got any gifts at Christmas, or my birthday."

Ginny gasped, her eyes widening as she felt a horrible loneliness. Tears welled in her eyes. Forgetting everything about her embarrassment, she sprang to her feet, running over to him, crushing him with a hug. She felt him stiffen and stepped back, looking at him in apprehension.

"I'm sorry. I…"

"No, it's not you, Ginny," Harry said soothingly, as he rubbed her arms. He sighed again. "It's me. You see, the only other person who has ever hugged me is your mum. I'm just not used to it."

Harry led her over to her bed, his hand on the small of her back. They both felt a tingling as he motioned for her to sit down. He pulled her desk chair over, sitting close to the bed so they could talk quietly. He could see the disappointment and concern on her face. "Really, I'm just not used to it," he paused, thinking about it for a few seconds. It had felt so right for some reason. "I did enjoy it though," he smiled at her.

Ginny smiled back at him, the disappointment fading away. "Well, I guess we'll just have to change that," she giggled. She paused looking at Harry with a curious look of her own. "Since you brought it up, I was wondering something, too."

"See, this is much better," Harry smiled at her more. Ginny giggled as she nodded. "What were you wondering?"

"You didn't tell Malfoy yes or no when he made that 'girlfriend' comment," Ginny said.

"Oh, that. I uh…" Harry said sheepishly, making Ginny giggle again. "For one thing I haven't been able to get to know you that well, yet, so I can't say either way. Second, Malfoy is a git. Either way I would have to deal with him running his mouth. He's insufferable to begin with, let alone giving him reasons to be more," Harry answered.

"Well, now that we've made this little breakthrough of ours, we can work on changing that first part, also," Ginny smiled sweetly at him.

"I'd like that," Harry said smiling at her. "What class are you looking forward to the most?"

"Charms," Ginny answered. "That's what I was reading when you came in."

"Professor Flitwick is great. Don't judge him by his size."

"I've heard," replied Ginny. "How long does it take to learn the practical stuff?"

"Depends on the Charm," Harry said as he glanced at her Charms book that was still open on her desk.

Suddenly his scar prickled, then turned into a searing pain. He groaned, rubbing his scar. Ginny was up and by his side as soon as he had groaned. She had a worried look on her face.

"Harry, what is it?" Ginny asked. Harry could hear the genuine concern in her voice.

"I've felt this kind of thing before. But this feels a little different. But it still feels like something to do with Voldemort is over here," Harry said. Ginny shuddered at the name and gasped. She thought for a second, then her eyes went wide. She went over to her desk, pulling open a drawer. She pulled a leather-bound book out gently. As the book neared Harry he groaned louder. Ginny pulled it away from him quickly, a look of horror on her face.

"That's definitely it," Harry said. "Wait, I saw Mr. Malfoy slip that into your cauldron."

"Come on, I think we should give this to my dad," Ginny said, holding the book gingerly.

"I think you're right," Harry said letting her pull him to the door by the hand. It felt so right to have her hand in his. He stopped, suddenly. "Hang on, please tell me you didn't write in that thing."

"I was going to, but I haven't yet," Ginny answered, seeing the worry in his eyes.

"Good," Harry said relieved. Ginny smiled at his show of concern for her as they walked down the stairs hand in hand.

"Mum, is dad still home?" Ginny asked as they reached the kitchen.

"You just missed him, Ginny dear," Mrs. Weasley said as she turned. She was surprised to see Harry standing just behind Ginny. "Oh, Harry dear, I didn't see you there." She gave them a strange look as they exchanged a look and a nod. "What can I do for you?"

"Harry felt something wrong with this," Ginny said as she gently placed the book on the table.

"What's this? Where did it come from?" she asked.

"Not sure what it is, mum, but it has something to do with You-Know-Who," Ginny started.

"And I saw Mr. Malfoy slip it into Ginny's cauldron at Flourish and Blott's," Harry finished.

"Oh, my!" Mrs. Weasley exclaimed. She drew her wand and cast two spells on the stairs. "Leave it there, don't touch it again." She ran into the sitting room to use the fireplace.

"What was that your mum just cast?" Harry asked quietly.

"A silencing and shield charm," Ginny answered with a frown. "She only does that if she is worried about one of us hearing something we shouldn't, or to keep us safe."

"But she cast both," Harry said confused.

"That's what worries me," Ginny said taking his hand again.

Mrs. Weasley came back a few minutes later with Professor McGonagall right behind her.

"Hello, Professor," Harry greeted her.

"Hello, Mr. Potter. Why am I not surprised you are involved in this?" she sighed.

"Purely by chance this time, Professor," Harry answered. Ginny giggled, her brothers must have told her about his adventures of his first year. "Ginny, this is Professor McGonagall, Gryffindor Head of House and the Transfiguration teacher. Professor, Ginny Weasley, soon to be first year."

"Pleased to meet you, Professor," Ginny smiled.

"A pleasure, Miss Weasley," McGonagall nodded. "Now, is this the book in question?"

"Yes, ma'am," Harry replied. The professor waved her wand over the book. A black glow surrounded it for a few seconds. She noticed Harry reach up and rub his scar.

"Molly, I need to call Professor Dumbledore," McGonagall said, turning pale. She rushed back the way she had come. She was gone for several minutes, returning with not only Professor Dumbledore, but Snape as well. Harry glared at Snape wondering why he was there.

"Can't even keep from causing trouble over the holidays, can you, Potter?" Snape sneered as his eyes fell on Harry.

"Excuse me!" Mrs. Weasley growled. "No guest in my house will speak ill of Harry in my presence!"

"Or mine!" Ginny said through gritted teeth as she stepped in front of Harry. The room began to shake and the lights started to flicker. Energy started to crackle around Ginny as a breeze blew out of nowhere, flitting her hair.

"I would be mindful of who you chastise and where you do it, Severus," McGonagall said with a thin smile. Snape only gave a curt nod, as he took a step back from Ginny and Mrs. Weasley.

"Indeed, Severus. Mind your tongue," Dumbledore said. "We will speak of this later." He turned to look at Mrs. Weasley and Ginny as Harry took Ginny's hand. She instantly calmed and her display of emotional magic subsided. He just smiled slightly, his blue eyes twinkling wildly. "Now, then. You must be Miss Ginevra Weasley."

"Yes, sir," Ginny said sheepishly.

"I am Professor Albus Dumbledore, Headmaster of Hogwarts."

"Pleased to meet you, Professor. But please, just Ginny," she pleaded. Dumbledore chuckled as he nodded. Ginny turned to Harry expecting to see him laughing. He was just smiling at her.

"I think it's a beautiful name," he told her quietly. Ginny just smiled and blushed at his compliment. Their eyes met, each looking deep into the other. Mrs. Weasley cleared her throat, making both of them jump.

"Now, Harry, is this the object?" Dumbledore asked smiling at him.

"Yes, sir," he answered. Dumbledore looked at the lettering, Tom Marvolo Riddle, and frowned. He pulled out his wand, waving it in a very complicated pattern over the book. The book again glowed a dark black, but this time it emitted a slight hiss. Harry groaned as a searing pain shot through his scar. Ginny grabbed his arm, looking at him worriedly. Dumbledore's eyes looked at Harry, concern and fear crossed over his features for a split second.

"I see," Dumbledore said at last. "Miss Weasley, I presume you have no objections to my taking this to study it further?"

"None, Professor," replied Ginny, looking up from Harry.

"Very well," nodded Dumbledore. "Severus, Minerva, a double containment spell, if you please." The two professors drew their wands, each casting a spell. "If it does indeed pertain to Voldemort, I shall find a way to dispose of it properly. I just hope it is not what I believe it to be." He turned and gave Ginny a comforting smile. "A very wise decision not to write in this diary, Miss Weasley."

"Thank you, sir."

"I shall see you both on the evening of September First. Molly," Dumbledore nodded as the three professors took their leave with the diary being levitated in front of them.

"Now, it's late, off to bed with you two," Mrs. Weasley said as she hugged them both.

"Night, mum," Ginny said.

"Good night, Mrs. Weasley," Harry said as Mrs. Weasley hugged him as well.

They walked up the stairs, hand in hand. Molly Weasley said nothing, just raised her eyebrows as they left. When they reached Ginny's door, Harry stopped. Impulse took his body before his mind could stop it.

He hugged Ginny, placing a light kiss on her cheek. "Night, Ginny."

"Night, Harry," Ginny smiled as she retuned his hug and kissed his cheek. Harry slowly turned and walked up the stairs, glancing back with a smile just before he climbed out of sight. Ginny stepped into her room and watched as Harry climbed the stairs and returned his smile. Once he was out of sight, she closed her door and leaned on it as she let out a soft happy squeal.

Harry awoke slowly. As his consciousness became more aware he heard the sounds of Ron snoring next to him. Suddenly he felt almost giddy. He wasn't sure where that feeling was coming from. It was as if it was someone else's feelings he was feeling. Harry shook his head. That just wasn't possible. At least that's what he thought at first. In the year since he had "returned" to the Wizarding World, he had found a lot of things were possible that he thought weren't.

He blinked his eyes open as he stretched. Reaching over he felt for his glasses on the night table by his bed, retrieving them and placing them on. Harry quietly left the room heading down the stairs. He paused at Ginny's door, with a smile thinking of the good night kiss and hug they had given each other. That giddy feeling struck him again. He wondered if she was up yet. He was starting to feel that she would become very important to him. Harry wondered where that thought had come from. He continued down the stairs when he heard someone coming down from the next floor up.

Harry entered the kitchen, stopping on the bottom stair, he found Mrs. Weasley humming as she cooked breakfast. Mr. Weasley was sitting at the table drinking tea and reading the paper. Percy was the only other one at the table. Loud thumping behind him reminded him someone was coming down behind him. "Morning," he said as he sat down.

"Good morning, Harry dear," Mrs. Weasley smiled at him.

"Good Morning, Harry," Mr. Weasley said glancing up with a smile. Percy just nodded with blurry eyes as he sipped on his tea.

"Good morning, all," the twins said in unison.

Everyone repeated their greetings as Harry poured himself some tea. Just as he set the teapot down, two small arms encircled his shoulders, and a light kiss was placed on his cheek. Harry smiled as he turned to Ginny and returned the greeting. The table was silent, and the crash of a plate sounded by the stove.

"Morning, Gin," Harry said, ignoring everyone else in the room except her.

"Morning, Harry," Ginny said. As she sat down she turned to her parents and brothers. "What?"

"Did we miss something?" asked Percy, looking at the twins.

"We most certainly did miss something…" George started.

"But what was it we missed?" Fred finished.

"You boys aren't the only ones that missed something," Mr. Weasley said.

"Does this have something to do with what you brought down here last night?" Mrs. Weasley asked.

"Uh…" Harry stammered.

"Relax, Harry. I'll deal with them. I know you don't like the spotlight," Ginny said, placing a hand on his arm. "Yes, mum, it does. Our talk last night led to us finding that thing and bringing it down here." Ginny turned to her father. "You had already left for work, dad. Harry and I found some kind of dark enchanted object that belonged to or had something to do with You-Know-Who. Mum called Hogwarts, and Professor Dumbledore took it with him."

"But you're leaving out the most important part there, little sister," George said.

"Yeah, the part of you and young Harry Potter here actually talking, and you not running away…"

"Or knocking something over…"

"Or elbows in butter dishes!" the twins grinned. Ginny groaned. She was hoping none of them had seen that. Ginny knew the twins were never going to let her live that down.

"I cornered her in her room and we had a good chat," Harry said looking at the twins. "The subject matter is…"

"None of your business!" Ginny said glaring at her brothers. "We talked. I got over my embarrassment. That's all you need to know." Ginny placed her wand on the table, making her brothers gulp and pale. Arthur and Molly Weasley exchanged a look that said they knew this was going to happen sometime. They exchanged a nod, and a small smile.

"Boys, leave Harry and your sister alone," Mr. Weasley said. Harry and Ginny looked from each other to her father with confusion on their faces. "All in good time, you two." Then he went back to his paper and didn't say another word.

"But…" Percy said.

"But nothing, Percy, you heard your father!" Mrs. Weasley said, scowling at him, as she started placing the platters of food on the table. Percy ducked his head and remained quiet.

"Morning, everyone," Ron yawned as he stumbled to the table. He looked around at the silence of the kitchen with a confused look.

His mother was bringing food to the table, his father was folding the paper, nothing at of the ordinary. But then Ron looked at his brothers. Percy was staring at his plate, Fred and George were pale and fidgeting in their chairs. Harry was smiling at Ginny, and Ginny was smiling at Harry.

"Did I miss something?" Harry couldn't help the snort that escaped him. Ginny snickered, trying to hide it. Soon the kitchen was filled with laughter as one by one, each of them lost the battle not to laugh.

Harry and Ginny glanced at each other and smiled once again. They were in the garden weeding the vegetable patch for Mrs. Weasley. The rest of Ginny's brothers were in other parts of the garden weeding herbs, potion ingredients, and flowers. Mr. Weasley was watering the crops as Mrs. Weasley was picking anything that was ripe. Ginny giggled as Harry's hand brushed hers for the fourth time. She could tell he wasn't doing it accidently, because each time he had done it he had looked up and smiled at her.

"You really do know how to do this quickly. I'm having trouble keeping up with you," Ginny said.

"I usually do this kind of thing for my aunt," Harry said. "But she never asks, she orders. I have to do all the work for them or they don't feed me." Ginny gasped, taking his dirty hand in hers. The mix of emotions in her eyes was hard for Harry to read. "It's fine. I'm used to it."

"There is no reason you should be used to it!" Ginny said with a touch of anger in her voice. "You have to tell…" There was a soft pop behind them.

"Harry Potter, sir!"

Harry groaned. He knew that voice. With a deep breath he turned to see Dobby, the little house elf standing there wringing his hands. "Hello, Dobby."

"Dobby has come to thank the great Harry Potter. You discovered the object that was going to be used to hurt Harry Potter, sir!" Dobby squealed. Suddenly he rushed over and hugged Harry, crying great tears. "Dobby also wishes to apologize to Harry Potter for keeping his mail, and dropping the pudding…"

"It's alright, Dobby," Harry said as he pulled the small elf off. "Just don't do it again."

"Wait," said Ginny. "The object?... Harry, the diary!" she said with wide eyes.

"Dobby, is your family the Malfoys?" asked Harry. Dobby looked around as if he was scared before he nodded.

"What is all the commotion over here?" Mrs. Weasley said as she walked over. "Oh, hello. Who's this, Harry dear?"

"This is my…uh… friend, Dobby. Dobby, this is Molly and Ginny Weasley," Harry said. Dobby smiled and looked close to tears. "He just stopped by to give me something." Dobby jumped and pulled out Harry's letters and handed them to him. Molly nodded and clucked her tongue as she walked back to the other side of the garden. Harry turned back to Dobby, as he thought of something. "Dobby, you told me you had to serve the Malfoys. Is there anyway for you to run away?"

"Oh, no, Harry Potter sir. Dobby is bound by his magic to serve my masters unless they present Dobby with clothes," Dobby answered.

"Harry, even then Dobby could die if he is unbound to a master for too long," Ginny said as gently as she could. Harry looked at her in horror. "Elf magic is tied to a family or the house of a family."

"There has to be a way," Harry said. "Dobby, if we come up with a way to free you, would you like to work for me?"

"Oooohhhh, Harry Potter is too kind!" sobbed Dobby. "Yes, Harry Potter, sir Dobby would like that."

"Alright, we will come up with a way to free you," said Harry with a smile. "No one deserves to be treated like a slave. I'll call you as soon as your free of the Malfoys."

"Thank you, Harry Potter sir," Dobby whimpered as he disappeared.

"Harry, don't you see that's what your aunt and uncle do to you?" asked Ginny.

"I know, but I don't have a choice," Harry sighed. "They're the only family I have left."

Ginny huffed. She would have to think about how to help get Harry away from his so-called relatives. She turned, about to start pulling weeds again when a thin green snake slithered by her hand. She was about to cry out when Harry placed a calming hand on her arm. He hissed at the snake. It looked up at him like it was startled.

"Sorry, we didn't mean to startle you," Harry hissed.

"I underssstand. You are the firssst SSSpeaker I have ever met," the snake hissed back.

"Harry, you're a Parselmouth?" Ginny gasped.

"Does that mean that I can talk to snakes?" he asked looking confused at her.

"Yes. It's supposed to be a Dark Art, but I think it's a talent," Ginny said still looking awestruck.

"Pardon me," the snake hissed. Harry turned back to it. "SSSSome wizzardsssss sssay Sssspearkerssss are evil, but I can ssssee no evil in you. Fear not."

"What did he say?" Ginny asked.

"He agrees with you," Harry smiled. "Garden snakes eat bugs, right?"

"Yes," Ginny smiled, knowing what he was thinking. "There's a quite a few over at the other end of the tomato plants."

"There isss a nessst of food by the red orb plantsss," Harry said to the snake.

"Thanksss," it replied as it slithered in that direction.

"Harry?" Mr. Weasley said. Harry and Ginny turned to see him looking pale. "You…you can talk to snakes?"

"Yes, sir," Harry said sounding glum. Mr. Weasley seeing, that Harry was expecting to be in trouble or sent away, shook his head quickly.

"That is a very rare talent. When did you discover it?"

"Just before I went to Hogwarts last year," Harry answered. "I accidently set a boa on my cousin at the zoo. I was talking to the boa when Dudley pushed me out of the way. I did accidental magic and vanished the glass. Dudley fell into the tank, and the boa escaped. Then the glass reappeared and trapped Dudley inside the tank." Ginny was giggling. Harry smiled at her. Her laughter was like an angel singing into his heart. Mr. Weasley chuckled.

"Well if I see any snakes from now on, I'll ask you to ask them what they need, and I'll do my best to accommodate them," Mr. Weasley said as he walked off.

"I wonder if you could talk to dragons like that?" Ginny wondered. "Charlie would go spare!" Ginny smiled, her eyes sparkling wildly.

After dinner that night, Harry joined the rest of the Weasleys in the sitting room to relax for the evening. Harry sat in one corner with Ginny away from everyone else so they could talk semi privately. Percy and Ron were playing chess on the opposite side of the room. Fred and George were talking quietly by the fireplace. Harry was quietly telling Ginny about his Invisibility Cloak that he received for Christmas. Ginny's curiosity got the better of her. Feeling emboldened by the talks they had shared so far, Ginny had to know.

"Did you come to talk to me last night because of the letter and picture I sent you for Christmas?" Ginny asked. Harry looked at her confused.

"Letter?" Harry asked in return. "What letter?"

Ginny's eyes narrowed. She had the same blazing look she had when they had been confronted by Malfoy. She swung her gaze across the room. "Ronald Bilius Weasley!" she yelled angrily.

"What did I do?" Ron said as he paled. All of the other Weasley brothers froze staring at Ron. They all knew he was in trouble by the tone of Ginny's voice, and they were not brave enough to stand in her way. Mr. Weasley looked out from behind his paper with mild interest. Mrs. Weasley raised an eyebrow as she looked up from her knitting.

"More like what you didn't do!" Ginny yelled standing up. "Where is it? Where is the letter I wrote to Harry at Christmas for you to give to him?" Ron gulped. "For that matter, where is the gift I sent to him?"

"Umm…Urm…uh…" Ron stuttered as Ginny advanced on him. Mrs. Weasley placed a restraining hand on Ginny's shoulder.

"Ronald, you had best not have thrown it away," Mrs. Weasley said, irritation clear in her voice.

"N…Na…No," he said, looking even paler.

"Well, where is it?" Ginny hollered.

"And why didn't you give it to Harry at Christmas?" Mr. Weasley asked a little too calmly. Percy stood and inched his way away from Ron. Fred and George made their way over to Harry. They leaned in, one on each side of Harry. "Oh, this is gonna be good," Fred whispered in delight.

"Ronniekins is in for it now!" George whispered gleefully. Harry glanced at the twins in turn and was about to ask what they meant, but both shook their heads and looked pointedly at the scene on the other side of the room.

"It's…It's up in my trunk," Ron said weakly. "I didn't think Harry would want fan mail."

"Oh, wrong thing to say," gulped Percy as he joined Harry and the twins.

"FAN MAIL? FAN MAIL?" Ginny all but screamed, struggling to get to Ron. "You are bloody well lucky my wand is in my room, Ronald!"

"Ginevra, language," admonished Mrs. Weasley. "And you, Ronald, had best get to your room and find it. You bring it straight down here, and apologize to Harry. Then off to bed with you. Your father and I will discuss your punishment tonight and tell you in the morning. I am absolutely disgusted with your behavior! Now, go!"

"But…" Ron tried to plead.

"No, Ronald," Mr. Weasley said with a glare. Harry watched as Percy and the twins gulped. From what Harry knew of Mr. Weasley, he was a kind, gentle man, but the glare he gave Ron and the gulp of his brothers told Harry that their father was not one to cross. "Do as you are told!"

Ron gulped again at his father's tone of voice and ran up the stairs as fast as he could. Mrs. Weasley was quietly talking to Ginny as they waited. Fred gave a low whistle as they watched Mr. Weasley stare at the stairs waiting for Ron to return.

"Ron is in big trouble for this," Percy said, stating the obvious.

"Ya think, Percy," George said.

"What gave it away?" Fred asked.

Ron was gone for five minutes, before he came thundering down the stairs again. He glanced at his parents and Ginny who were still on the other side of the room. His ears turning pink as his mother nodded sternly at him. He approached Harry with a small flat package wrapped in red paper. On the top, Harry could see neatly written script.

"Sorry," Ron mumbled to Harry, holding out the package. Ron chanced a glance at Ginny and his parents again. His father had a look of disapproval and disappointment. Ginny still looked angry as she glared at him with her arms crossed. But scariest of all was his mother. She had her famous scowl etched on her face. His mother nodded in Harry's direction, then motioned her head to the stairs again. Ron gulped again as he handed Harry the package and made a hasty retreat back up the stairs.

Ginny took a deep breath before she rejoined Harry in their corner. A look from her was all it took for Fred, George, and Percy to vacate the area quickly. None of them wanted to be on the receiving end of her wrath that they knew was coming for Ron.

"Well, go ahead. Open it," Ginny said cheerfully. Harry smiled at her as he opened the paper. He made a mental note not to get on Ginny's bad side. He looked down at a handmade frame with a picture of a shy smiling and waving Ginny in front of the Burrow. Harry's smile grew as he noticed she was wearing the same outfit she had been wearing the first time he had seen her at Kings Cross almost a year ago. "I had mum take that for you when we got home that day," Ginny said shyly. "It took two weeks to make the frame with dad's help."

"I love it! Thank you," Harry smiled up at her. "You looked very cute that day."

"Thank you," Ginny said quietly as she blushed the same shade of red as her hair, looking away. Harry took her hand and waited for her to look at him again.

"I mean it," Harry said. "I would have asked Ron more about you, but I kept getting distracted."

"Really?" Ginny squeaked.

"Really," Harry replied with a smile.

"Well, read your letter," Ginny said smiling, losing some of her blush. "Then you can answer my questions from it." Harry nodded and unfolded the letter.

15 December, 1991

Dear Harry Potter,

I don't know if you remember me or not, but I remember you. We met, briefly, at Kings Cross. I'm Ron's younger sister, Ginevra Molly Weasley. But you can call me Ginny. And before my stupid git brothers tell you, yes, I have had a crush on you since I was five. Like most of the Wizarding world, I grew up hearing your name and what you did. I mean you are famous, you know. You have many books and stories about you in our world. And I know I'm not the only girl out there that has a crush on you, but I hope…yeah, let's leave it at that for now.

I begged my dad for a Harry Potter book when I turned five, but it was my oldest brother, Bill, who gave it to me for Christmas that year. I've been reading it ever since. It has a few pictures of your parents in it, and a couple of you as a baby. You were so cute.

Having grown up in our world, I don't know much about Muggles, except what my dad tells us. He has an obsession with them. Drives mum around the twist! Anyway, from what I could tell, your clothes were much too big. I'm sorry if that offends you, I don't mean it as a bad thing, I'm just curious as to why? None of the other Muggles I've seen wear clothes like that.

You have the most striking emerald green eyes! I could get lost in those gems for hours. Your eyes have always done that to me. Even in the photographs they put in the books, your eyes have always drawn my attention. Even in your baby pictures.

I hope I can meet you before school starts next year. I'll be a first year. Mum wants my brothers to look after me next year, but somehow, I doubt they will. Percy is too absorbed in being a prefect. Fred and George are too caught up with their pranks on people, and I'm sorry to say, but Ron and I don't really get along anymore. Sure, we used to when we were younger, but that was before he got his Hogwarts letter. Everything changed at that point. He didn't want anything to do with me after that. He even went as far as to tell me I was still a baby and he was growing up. If Bill, Charlie, the twins, or worst mum, had heard him say that, I shutter to think what would become of the little git. I'm sorry, I know he's your friend and all, but he has some jealousies and insecurities that are outrageous! And if mum or dad ever heard him say women and girls were the weak ones in our world… Sorry, just thinking about that makes me rant.

Anyway, about me: I love to fly (don't tell my brothers! I've been sneaking out to the broom shed since I was six. I borrowed their brooms). I taught myself how to fly, because I heard your dad was a great flyer and Quidditch player. I figured you would be too. Then Fred and George wrote mum telling us you made the Quidditch team in your first year. They said you were great! And made a spectacular catch in your first match! I was so happy for you! Anyway, maybe we can go for a fly sometime? Let's see, I like pranking just as much as the twins. My birthday is eleven days after yours (August 11). I HATE PINK! If we become friend…or more…remember that. Oh, and I have mum's fiery temper. I can already do a few spells and hexes if I get my hands on a wand. All of my brothers have been on the wrong end of a hex Bill taught me when I was eight. It's called the Bat-Bogey Hex and it hurts you for fifteen minutes. It makes the bogeys fly out of your nose, turn into bats that attack your face. Best part about it, there isn't a counter curse for it. I love Quidditch! I support the Holly Head Harpies! They're the only all-female team in the pro League. My favorite player is Gwenog Jones.

Anyway, another reason I'm writing to you is I've had some strange dreams with you, my brother Ron, and a girl with really frizzy hair in them lately. One was about a troll and one was about a three-headed dog. Fred wrote to mum telling her a troll had gotten into the castle on Halloween. Halloween was the night I had the troll dream. So, do you know anything about a three-headed dog in a small room standing on a trap door? I know it sounds strange, but I'm curious after Halloween.

Anyway, I know your family is…was (I'm so sorry!) … one of the wealthiest in England, but money means very little to me. I would rather have friends, family, and people to love, and that love me, than all the money in the world, just to let you know. My family doesn't have much money, but what we do have is love.

I've been avoiding asking you this the whole letter, but I have to know, for my own peace of mind. Did you find me pretty, or at least cute, when you saw me on the platform? I caught your double take when mum and I turned around. I don't know what it was, but I felt something when we looked at each other. Well, I think I need to get some sleep. Hopefully, you'll write back soon.

HAPPY CHRISTMAS!

Ginevra "Ginny" Weasley

P.S. I hope you like the picture. I made the frame myself, with a little help from my dad.

After Harry was done reading, he looked up at Ginny, leaned forward, and placed a sweet kiss on her cheek.

"Aww, ain't they cute, Fred?"

"That they are, George."

Harry and Ginny blushed at their comments, earning the twins a scowl from their mother. "Leave them alone, boys." Her tone left no room for any further comment. Fred and George looked at each other, then made a hasty retreat up the stairs. Percy nodded, then followed the twins up the stairs.

"Tea, dear?" asked Mrs. Weasley sweetly.

"Yes, I do think so. That sounds like a wonderful idea, my dear," Mr. Weasley said as he stood and followed his wife out of the room. Ginny watched as her family left the room, giving them some privacy. Harry looked nervous by this. It was Ginny's turn to place a reassuring hand on his hand.

With a smile she asked, "Well?"

"Oh, right," Harry said coming to his senses. "Yes, I remembered you, I just kept getting distracted to ask more about you. And I love your full name, by the way. It's beautiful."

"Thank you," Ginny smiled with a blush.

Harry scanned the letter again. "I think it's sweet about the crush, but like I said last night…"

"You're just Harry. I know, but I still like you," Ginny blushed a little more. Harry smiled at her.

"Is this letter why you kept running away when I got here?" Harry asked.

"Yes," Ginny said quietly. "I was so embarrassed, and thought you were going to reject me."

Harry placed a hand on her cheek. "I just wasn't sure how to talk to you at first. If I had gotten this when I was supposed to, I would have known where to start. But after the Malfoy incident, it just all came together in my head, and here we are." Ginny smiled at him, then motioned back to the letter.

"I'd love to see that book, if you still have it. I never knew they wrote about me and my parents. And the clothes are hand-me-downs from my cousin, Dudley. Who, as you can see, is a lot bigger then I am.

"And thank you for the compliment about my eyes. I've come to take that every time I get it to heart, because I got them from my mum," Harry smiled. He looked deep into Ginny's eyes. "I like your eyes, too. They sparkle when you smile and laugh. They shine when you get upset. And I think they're gorgeous. I could get lost in your eyes, even if I tried not to." Harry blushed as he said this. It was the first time he had ever given a girl a compliment like that.

"Thank you," Ginny blushed with a shy smile.

"We'll get Ron sorted in time. Hermione, too," Harry said. "She's like a sister to me," he added quickly, seeing the look of hurt and confusion on Ginny's face.

"We'll take my Nimbus out for a fly tomorrow. How's that sound?" Harry asked with a smile.

"Brilliant!" Ginny smiled widely.

"Let's see," he muttered, consulting the letter again. "I have an idea on how to prank the twins, if you're willing?" Harry whispered. Ginny grinned evilly as she nodded. "I'll remember to get you some pink bows for your hair," he teased.

"You had better not, Harry James Potter!" Ginny glared at him. Harry burst out laughing.

"I'm only joking," said Harry. Ginny huffed, then giggled as she realized he was just trying to get a rise out of her.

"I don't have a pro team yet," Harry continued. He glanced down and gasped as he realized what the next part of the letter was about. "Yes, the troll thing happened. The girl you dreamed about is Hermione, and the dog is Fluffy."

"Fluffy?" Ginny asked.

"Hagrid's three-headed dog," he answered.

"What?" Ginny said wide-eyed.

"It's a long story," Harry sighed. "I promise I'll tell you about it later."

"Okay," Ginny replied weakly. She could tell it was not a pleasant memory for him, and she wouldn't push for answers.

"No, I had no idea about my family," Harry continued. "Still don't really." Tears welled in Ginny's eyes as she gripped his hand. He smiled sadly, but shrugged.

"We can do some digging in the library after we get back to school," Ginny promised.

Harry smiled his thanks, then scanned the last part of the letter. "No, I found you beautiful, not pretty, and gorgeous not cute."

Ginny blushed again but smiled brightly at him.

"And, yes, I felt something," Harry smiled at Ginny again. "What we have, I don't know what it is, but I can tell it's special."

Ginny grinned as she hugged Harry tightly. She could feel him inhale deeply as he buried his nose in her hair. "I love the smell of your hair," he whispered in her ear, making her shiver slightly.

"All done, dears?" Mrs. Weasley asked from the doorway. Harry and Ginny jumped apart, started. They looked at her nodding as they blushed a deep red. "Well, off to bed, then."

"Night, mum," Ginny said as she hugged her.

"Night, sweetheart."

"Good night, Mrs. Weasley," Harry said as he was hugged by her as well.

"Good night, Harry dear."

Harry and Ginny walked up the stairs hand in hand, as they had done the night before. They stopped in front of Ginny's door. Harry hugged Ginny, placing a sweet kiss on her cheek. "Night, Gin."

Ginny returned the hug and kiss. "Night, Harry."

They smiled at each other as Harry climbed the stairs, and out of sight on his way to Ron's attic bedroom.