Chapter 1 Meet VIrginia DISCLAIMER: I own absolutely nothing in this story except maybe the plot which (I am sure) couldn't possibly be completely original. The characters belong to one ingenious person JKR. The Quote from the song and the title of the chapter "Meet Virginia" is Train's song. And the quote from As You Like It is obviously belonging to William Shakespeare. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~ Meet Virginia Well she wants to be the Queen Then she thinks about her scene Pulls her hair back as she screams I don't really wanna be the queen ~ Meet Virginia TRAIN **************************************************************************** ********** A child, a simple ignorant child. That is all I am. I figure it is all I will ever be. When do I get to grow up. When is it my turn to prove myself? Virginia Weasley sat in her little closet sized room writing these words angrily in her leather bond journal. It had just past her fifteenth birthday. The journal had been a gift from Bill, who had been unfortunately to busy to come home. Angry tears rushed to her eyes. Bill was the only one who truly understood. Her mother, her father and the rest of her brothers all adored her. . . . . . they adored her. They didn't respect her, or talk with her, no they adored her. A child in there eyes no matter how much of a woman she became. She furiously wrote down her feelings with the quill until she felt the end snap with the violent force she had bestowed upon it. Frustrated she threw the quill and book into the pile of presents she had just gotten. Her parents had given her a doll. As the book landed on its head the doll's face went sad and she complained of the pain. Virginia merely glared. She was fifteen years old. Ron had gotten her a book about a princess and a dragon. Fred and George had included pranks in their present as usual. Percy had gotten her a book on proper edict when attending social events and Charlie who Virginia barely knew because of their drastic age difference had sent a simple stuffed bunny. She remembered telling Charlie last time she had seen him at Persy's wedding that she liked bunnies. Bill's gift had of course been the highlight. He knew Virginia's secret flare for writing. She so desperately wanted to be a writer. The moment she had opened it she felt her heart lift at one person who hadn't failed her. One person who had looked beyond the fact that she was the youngest, that she was the only girl and that she was just another red headed mouth to feed. Her mother had taken the book and asked confused what Virginia planned to do with it. Irritably Virginia shrugged and it was handed back to her. Inside the soft leather cover was a tiny inscription to her that read. "A dream can only become reality if you find it within your essence." Forever your loving brother Bill. Ron after reading the inscription over Virginia's shoulder had muttered something about Bill always being a little spacey. After the traditional cake and ice cream Virginia had retreated to her room as quickly as possible. Her eyes now trailed to the large full moon that washed her room in its milky light. The intrusion of feels was now eminent as the emotion trickled down her face. Slowly she climbed under the quilt of her bed and looked desperately out at the moon. As she observed the mysterious orb in the sky she felt her eyelids grow heavy and before she could object sleep had captured her into its dreamless entrapment. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke to an impatient knock on her bedroom door. She opened her eyes sleepily barely remembering when she had fallen asleep. "Ginny hurry up! We have to get to Diagon Alley. I am meeting my friends there" the impatient voice of her brother Ron said banging loudly on the door. "I'm up" Virginia said irritated. Ron was probably the worst of all of her brothers. They were the closest in age but the farthest apart. Ron treated her like she was a two dimensional person. She was either happy or sad no other feelings could be felt by her. Her life didn't go past anything that didn't involve him and if it did he could care less. This was the way Ron made her feel day in and day out. "well hurry up. I don't want to be late" he said aggravated. As soon as she heard his footsteps leaving the hall she emerged from her bed. She spotted a freshly washed robe hanging off of one of the chairs. She quickly snatched it and changed. Virginia grabbed a brush and ran it through her red curls. Looking in the mirror she found it hard to believe she was fifteen. She had dreamed when she was young about what it would be like to be so old. Instead of the beautiful, tall vixen she had imagined herself being. She was 5"2, with the same uncontrollable red curls, same boring mud colored eyes and the same opinion held by her family about her. Tearing her eyes from the mirror she left the room feeling the familiar swell of suffocation. "Finally, what were you doing trying to make me late" Ron groaned looking even more intolerant if at all possible. "We can go now" was all Virginia said. Ron grabbed a bag containing the floo powder. Eagerly he grabbed his amount and threw it in the fire. Jumping in he proclaimed. "Diagon Alley" and he disappeared from view. Virginia sighed and followed suit and soon found herself on the same crowded cobblestone street as Ron. Ron was searching the crowds looking for his friends. "There they are" he said happily running to where his two closest friends Harry Potter and Hermione Granger were waving happily to him. Virginia followed him reluctantly. "Hi Ginny" Hermione said with a large smile. Ron had slipped his hand in hers and was now looking quite protective of her. "Hello" Virginia said wincing at her nickname that she had never been able to shake. Harry had a pretty brown haired girl beside him that Virginia recognized as Lavender Brown. "Hey Ginny, excited about starting your fifth year?" Harry asked not really looking for an answer. Virginia didn't bother to answer knowing that it was all just polite commentary. "I am going to go get my books" she said simply offering a weak smile. They all nodded and then agreed to meet at Flourish and Blotts when they were finished. Virginia walked away from the group she use to have such a want to be associated with. The idea that they were cool and older had vanished from her mind along with her childhood and often ridiculed crush on Harry Potter. Virginia entered a quiet bookstore and began searching the shelves. She found her necessary books, but didn't stop there. All through the summer she had worked for a family in a Muggle Bakery to make enough money to buy some extra books and a new pair of dress robes. When her father had exchanged the money into the wizard currency she had been overwhelmed with pride at the amount. Slipping into the Muggle literature section she pulled out the large book she had admired every time she came to Diagon Alley. It was a worn black hard covered book that read in silver script. 'The Complete Works of William Shakespeare." Clutching it close she approached the counter. "Finally got the book I see" the tiny witch said from behind the counter. Virginia looked confused. "I have seen you here gazing at it all summer" the tiny old witch explained. Virginia felt herself blushed. It wasn't common for a witch to take any interest in books written by Muggles. "He just writes so beautifully" Virginia sighed getting a whimsical expression. "That he does child. It takes a dreamer to appreciate the words of another dreamer" she said smiling. "that will be ten sickles" she said gently. Virginia pulled out her money and was about to hand it to the witch when she hesitated. A quick calculation told her that she had gotten the wrong amount. "You charged me too little. You forgot to add in the Shakespeare book" Virginia said frowning. The last thing that she wanted to do was steal the book she had worked so hard for. "Ah no child. Dreamers also look out for other dreamers. Take it as a gift from me. I hope it brings you as much joy as my own copy brings me" she smiled. The corners of her eyes wrinkled into a gracious smile. "Thank you" Virginia said picking up her books. She paid and left the store. Shrinking her books down to a more manageable size she put them into her bag carefully. "Hey Weasley" a taunting voice came behind her. Virginia winced before turning to face the Weasley's worst enemy. A Malfoy. Draco sauntered forward. His silver gaze were held contemptuously with hers. "I see the muggle loving family still can't manage to buy their books new like descent families". He said gesturing to the second hand shop she had just emerged from. Virginia looked away breaking his intimidating glare. She wasn't ashamed that she didn't have money. She wasn't ashamed of her family so none of this particularly bugged her, but she didn't like Draco, he made her apprehensive. Silently thanking that her Muggle book was safely shrunk and tucked away in her bag she turned back to face him again. "Just leave me be Draco" she said quietly walking around him. Draco dodged infront of her path again and locked his steely eyes on hers again. "Why do you call me Draco, muggle lover?" he asked his voice sounded demanding and threatened. "Because your surname is not who you are but your background and insults are petty" she said simply directing her eyes away from him. She truly hadn't meant to call him Draco, but rather couldn't help it. She had never had a sharp tongue and seemed to possess an inability to be harsh. Draco looked slightly shocked and when she moved past her this time he let her go. Virginia finished her school list. The only thing left was her dress robes. Remembering that the book hadn't cost her anything she realized that she could get a more expensive one. Happily she entered the Dress Shop. Immediately she was seized and placed on a stool while measurements were being taken. A tall elegant woman floated over to where the rulers measured her. She waved her arms and the measuring tape disappeared quickly. "What exactly are you looking for my dear?" she asked looking over Virginia's shabby robes. "Dress Robes" she said firmly ignoring the distasteful look the woman gave her attire. "what color" the woman asked becoming slightly interested. Virginia shrugged and the woman looked at her as though thinking hard at the choices. She snapped her fingers quickly and a dress robe appeared on Virginia. Turning to the mirror Virginia blushed at her own image. The robes were tighter fitting than anything she had owned before, probably because she had always gotten her robes second hand and they couldn't fit them properly. It was a lavender color that seemed to shade to a blue as she shifted. The neckline was much lower than the turtle neck robes she usually wore. It was still classy without becoming to revealing and loosing the effect. "It is perfect" Virginia smiled looking at the reflection. "Of course it is" the woman snapped as though insulted that Virginia might have thought otherwise. The dress was suddenly gone and Virginia found herself in her old baggy robes once more. "shall I wrap it for you?" she asked her voice sounding more snotty. "No, I will just put it in my bag with my other stuff." Virginia said still choosing to ignore they way she talked down to her. She paid and left the story with her money pouch considerably lighter. Looking around she saw that Ron, Hermione, Harry and Lavender were already waiting out front of Flourish and Blotts. She hurried over. "Well it took you long enough" Ron said in a lighter tone than usual. He used this tone only when his friends were around and he didn't wish to seem cruel. "It's okay Ginny. We would have still been standing outside The Quidditch Store if it weren't for Lavender and I" Hermione said as though to comfort her. Virginia gave her a small forced smile. "Well are we ready to go back now?" she asked not wishing to stand and make conversation. "yep, Harry, Hermione and Lavender are all coming over until holidays end" Ron announced as though Virginia would be even slightly surprised. They seemed to be over every week before school started. They made there way to the Leaky Cauldron where a fire was lit for the purposes of travel. One by one they all traveled the floo networks and ended up back in the Burrow. Fred and George were there along with Persy and his wife Penelope. "oh hello did you guys get your things for Hogwarts?" Persy asked only mildly interested. "yes, did you get all the necessities" George asked giving them an over exaggerated wink. Virginia shook her head knowing they meant things like exploding quills. Persy frowned as the four sixth years burst into laughter as though they knew something no one else did. They all began talking about school plans with Fred and George who had just graduated last year. Virginia managed to sneak out of the room without being detected and sneak upstairs. This was something she had come to be good at over time. Letting her things back to normal size she packed them neatly in her school trunk. She left out her Shakespeare book and opened it gently on her bed. She opened to her favorite play and began to recite some of the lines quietly to herself. Loosing herself in another world. "All the world's a stage, And all the men and women merely players. They have their exits and their entrances, And one man in his time plays many parts, His acts being seven ages." ~ Shakespeare As You Like It **************************************************************************** Chapter 2 A New School Year ********** ~~~~~~~~* She was beautiful. The white gown entwined with threads of gold clung to her statues form creating a startling contrast with her long soft waves of crimson hair. Virginia let her chocolate eyes search the crowded room. The mellow sounds of the orchestra whisked around the couples gliding across the glossy wooden surface of the dance floor. As a quiet observer in this beautiful reverie she dared not move or even scarcely breath for fear it would all dissolve before her very eyes. The room was a large dome structure which was made of glass to let the gentle night fires twinkle down. In a corner a philharmonic played a slightly familiar tune. Scattered along the floor were little velvet red rose petals that never seemed to get squished or even blemished. They filled the room with their sweet musk scent. Virginia felt a light tap on her shoulder and turned to face a young man dressed in tails. He was about to say something but stopped suddenly. *~~~~~~~~~ A piercing voice suddenly interrupted Virginia. "Ginny there you are" the voice exclaimed. Sighing Virginia opened her eyes and removed herself from the beautiful fantasy. She was on the Hogwarts express tunneling towards school for another term. She had chosen an empty compartment for the purposes of not being bothered. Turning to the familiar face in the doorway she looked at him with only slight annoyance. "Yes Ron" she asked with a fake placid smile. "Ginny, I was looking everywhere for you. Look who I found" Ron said shoving a short, slightly scared looking boy through the doorway. Colin Creevey looked quite uncomfortable under the stare of Ron and the indifferent face of Virginia. "Hello Colin" she said only to please her brother. Ron had an infatuation with the idea that Colin and Virginia were meant for one another since Virginia's second year. "Hi Ginny" Colin said forcing a weak smile. Virginia knew that Colin didn't like her, she didn't blame him. She wouldn't have liked someone if their family members kept pushing her to like them. Colin sat down across from Virginia. Virginia looked to the muggle book of poetry she had laid out on her lap. She hastily shoved it under her robes that were beside her. She had gotten so caught up in her daydream she hadn't even finished reading the poem. Ron looked pleased at the two sitting across from another and ignored the fact that neither one seemed to be interacting with the other. "I will leave you to kids alone" he said mysteriously. He left the room but not before giving an obvious wink in Colin's direction. As soon as he had left Colin sprang up from the seat. "sorry about that" Virginia said turning to pull out her book again. "Um no problem" Colin said. He turned and left the compartment probably afraid she would have tried to actually engage him in conversation. Virginia opened her book back to the poem she was reading and continued without interruption until they reached the familiar station at Hogwarts School of witchcraft and Wizardry. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia sat at the large Gryffindor table watching the students being sorted. They all looked terrified as they approached to put on the faded sorting hat. Professor McGonagall was calling out the names. A little blond girl approached the stool and sat pulling the hat over her eyes as though to hide from the large room of people. It didn't stay more than half a second before the hat announced proudly. "HUFFLEPUFF" the Hufflepuff table erupted into cheers and applause and the girl happily went to go sit with her new family. "Seth Zardask" Professor McGonagall called naming the final name on her list. A small black haired boy timidly approached the stool and plunked the hat on his head and pulled it down over his eyes. The hat seemed hesitate on where to place him, after a long wait he finally yelled with confidence. "SLYTHERIN!". Virginia watched Seth walk to the Slytherin table and sit beside Draco Malfoy quietly. Draco seemed to sense someone looking at caught her eye quickly. Virginia looked away not wanting to provoke Draco to say something nasty to her later. The tables flooded with food and an impressed awe broke out from the first years who were not familiar with the process. The other students eagerly dug in as though there was limited amounts. Virginia waited until the older students like Ron and Harry had filled their plates until they resembled small mountains before calmly putting food infront of her. She ate silently listening to the conversations occurring around her. "So then me mom said I can't fly my broom at all during the holidays. After one head on with a tree suddenly she was all sore about it" Seamus said complaining bitterly to Ron and Harry about his summer mishaps. "So what you want to pay really close attention to is Transfiguration." Hermione directed to three first year girls sitting across from her nervously. None of them seemed to really want to listen to her but they were too scared to tell her so. Virginia finished her food quickly and stood up. No one seemed to notice as she exited the room. She headed straight for the Gryffindor common room. The fatigue of getting up so early then spending the day on a train had finally come to catch her. She arrived at the portrait of the Fat Lady only to remember that she still didn't know the password. "Password dear?" the portrait asked looking at her with suspicion. "I don't know it yet" Virginia sighed. She slid down the wall next to the portrait to wait until dinner would end and the other Gryffindor's would make their way back to the common room. "Are you even a Gryffindor?" the Fat Lady asked squinting as though that would help her to remember who she was. "Yes" Virginia said. She wasn't surprised that the portrait didn't remember her. Even Virginia could admit that she had a forgettable face. There was just nothing remarkable about it. "Oh well I can't let you in until you know the password" the Fat Lady said firmly. Virginia nodded. She had already realized that point. They sat in silence until Virginia heard footsteps coming up towards them. She stood up just as Tavia Holland, Drusilla Peters and Jora Were came around the corner. The three were also fifth years and all roommates. "Hey Ginny are you locked out?" Tavia asked noticing her standing infront of the portrait. "unfortunately" Virginia smiled. "well the password is Hippogriff" Jora said sounding slightly irritated. The Fat Lady seemed to over hear this and swung open to reveal the passageway to the common room. Virginia followed her roommates through the familiar room and up the stairs to their dorm. They each sat down on their respective beds. Tavia and Drusilla began talking immediately about their summers and the "cute" boys at the school. Virginia retrieved her journal from Bill and opened it to a fresh page. She began to write furiously loosing herself in her own words and thoughts, except that didn't seem to be able to shake the eyes that burned into her. Eventually she looked up into the face the contemptuous face of Jora. Jora never particularly liked Virginia, she alluded to it when ever possible by making her feel extremely uncomfortable with satiric comments. "So Ginny, what did you do this summer" Jora purred with a mocking tone. Virginia ignored her tone as always and answered the question as though it hadn't had any ill intent. "Not too much, I mostly just hung around my house" she shrugged truthfully. She didn't want to give Jora more ammunition against her but didn't want to lie. "that is just what I did" Drusilla jumped in. Jora shot her a cold stare. Drusilla easily coward at this. Ever since the first year Jora had been the leader of the group. She was clearly the prettiest with her long raven man, striking purple eyes and pale complexion. She knew this and soon had herself quite a following. Virginia had been part of the following but let herself get rejected for not having a boyfriend, not dressing up to par and clearly not being as social as they were. Jora found her flaws utterly unbearable, she attempted to make her feel miserable. It seemed to even make her more irritated as Virginia never rose to meet her insults or even accept them as insults. "Life must be a lot easier if you have no money. You have no choices to make" Jora said airily. Virginia just shrugged. She looked back down to her journal hoping that Jora would just leave her alone. The angry purple slits still remained. "well I am certainly not that lucky. Actually Ginny everything about you is simple." She continued her voice steadily increasing in malice. "Your style and looks make it easy since you don't have to worry about boyfriends and such. I can only wish that I had that same privilege" her voice flowed like honey but stung like a bee. "I guess so" Virginia sighed. She didn't dare raise her head again. A heavy feeling was settling in her stomach from her poisonous words. Jora waited for her to strike her back but as usual it never happened. "Well I am going to sleep" Jora said signaling that the encounter had ended. Within seconds the talking ceased and the lights were turned off. Virginia slipped under the covers and welcomed sleep with open arms. **************************************************************************** ********** " Since then - 'tis centuries - and yet; Feels shorter than the day; I first surmised the horses head Were towards eternity" Virginia mumbled the final words in the poem she was reading. "Brilliant" she breathed softly. A quiet smile spread across her face as the full idea of it hit her. "Miss Weasley! Would you care to join the class" the sharp voice of Professor Binns cut through her thoughts. Virginia raised her head from the book in surprise. She was in History of Magic and was suppose to be taking notes as always. "Sorry Professor" she mumbled to the transparent teacher. When he turned back to the board again to write Virginia turned back to her book. "What are you reading Ginny" Tavia hissed leaning closer to her from the next isle of desks. She looked curiously at the dog eared book. "um, nothing" Virginia lied. She didn't need anyone knowing that she was reading muggle literature. "well what is it then?" Jora asked becoming interested. She reached over and snatched the book swiftly. "Emily Dickinson? A muggle?" she said with obvious disgust. Virginia held her face with indifference except for the unavoidable pink tinge that tickled her cheek. "for muggle studies" she answered simply. Inside she prayed that Jora didn't remember that Virginia didn't take Muggle studies. Jora looked distinctly disappointed by this and threw the book back at her desk. Virginia in relief tucked it into her book bag and turned back to the board. "And I want a full parchment on the effects of the 1879 Duels of the Sun by Monday" Professor Binns said firmly. The class greeted this with groans that he ignored. As soon as Virginia was dismissed she hurried out of the classroom. She began to think about a book of Wizard Poems she had hidden under floor boards when suddenly a small boy whipped around the corner and smacked right into her. Everything that Virginia and the boy had been carrying was suddenly all over the floor. Virginia leaned down to pick everything up. "Why can't you idiots watch where you are going?" the boy said angrily. Virginia recognized him as the final first year to be sorted, Seth Zardask. She stayed silent still gathering her things. Seth reached for his first year Transfiguration book and his robe slipped back on his arm. Virginia froze. Across his arm was angry bruises and cuts with barely any uninjured flesh. Seth looked at her quickly and covered his arm hastily. "are you.." Virginia began her voice was full of concern, but she was interrupted. "Seth!" a voice said. Virginia looked up to see the tall form of Draco Malfoy. He looked at Virginia with acute dislike and focused back on Seth. "what are you doing" he asked. Seth stood. "some ugly bitch wasn't watching where she was going" he said kicking one of Virginia's books. He then walked past Draco and around the corner. Draco continued to stand shadowing Virginia and saying nothing. Virginia pretended not to noticed and just scooped the rest of her books up. As she stood to meet Draco's story eyes he said coldly. "Stay away from Seth, muggle lover. He doesn't need your filth." Virginia just walked around him and tried walking faster. "You forgot this" she heard him suddenly say from behind her. To Virginia's humiliation he was holding up her muggle poetry book. She took it from him hiding her eyes carefully. "Thank you" she said quietly. She waited a second to see if he responded. She looked at his steely eyes and realized that he wasn't going to comment on the muggle book. She quickly walked away feeling his hateful eyes on her until she was able to get out of his range of vision. Shivering she walked to her next class. She thought about the disfigured arm of Seth and the direct way Draco protected him. "what had happened to him?" **************************************************************************** Chapter 3 The Worst **************************************************************************** ********** Dear Virginia Hey how is your fifth year going? I am going to assume everything isn't too horrible there at Hogwarts. I am in India right now. These Goblin's have me working around the clock, it is torture! I am having a good time though. I got my tongue pierced. (Don't tell Mom or she will disown me for sure.) Did you like the book I got you? I sure hope so. I saw Charlie last week. He was over here catching some Red tailed something or another and he came by to see me. Persy keeps saying he will come to see me when he had time away from his precious ministry (yah right). Tell Ron I said hi and make sure to watch out for packages from the twins. I just got exploding mail from them the other day. Well I got to get back to work or these slave driving goblins will never pay me again. Love you forever Your Brother Bill. Virginia folded up the worn piece of parchment. A small smile played on her lips. She missed Bill terribly. She never got to see him but they did their best to stay in touch. Bill had included a photograph of him and his long time girlfriend Odessa. They both smiled and waved. Bill suddenly stuck out his tongue to reveal the shiny silver piercing. Odessa hit him playfully and he shut his mouth and shrugged with a good natured smile. The familiar twinkle was in his eye and the little picture version of him look up at Virginia and mouthed "I miss you" before disappearing out of the scene. Virginia tucked the picture and the letter neatly away in her bag. She was sitting in the Great Hall having breakfast. Everyone else was opening their letters the owl post had brought. "Hey Ginny what did you get?" Ron called obviously noticing that she had received an owl and he hadn't. "Oh, just a letter from Bill." Virginia said simply. Ron shot her a suspicious look before turning back to Harry who had received his monthly issue of Quidditch Magazine. "Are you coming to Potions?" Drusilla asked as she passed behind her. She was following behind Jora and Tavia who both walked authoritatively ahead of her. "Yah I am" Virginia said grabbing her things. Drusilla hesitated before stopping to wait for her. Virginia gathered her things and the two girls headed off towards the dungeon. As they walked in silence Drusilla would as casually as possible turn and glance at Virginia deliberately. Virginia pretended not to notice these uncomfortable glances. As they approached the Potions lab Drusilla suddenly reached out her hand and grabbed Virginia's arm. "Ginny, I am sorry for how Jora treats you" she said her voice full of concern and melancholy. "That's not your fault" Virginia smiled. Drusilla gave her a weak smile and disappeared into the classroom. Virginia followed. She held a new found respect for Drusilla. It took a lot to under mind Jora's command even if she wasn't present. Virginia sat quietly in her assigned seat beside Tavia and waited for the class to begin. "Hello Students" Snape said entering the classroom looking quite angry. It was common knowledge that he hated their class above all. It was a double potions class with Gryffindor and Hufflepuff, his two least favorites. "Today we will learn how to create the same poisonous concoction used to drug the apple eaten by as she is known to Muggles as Snow White." Snape sneered his eyes holding disgust and absolute hatred. "now turn to page 317 of your Spell books and begin" he snapped before sitting behind his desk. Virginia pulled out her Spell Book while Tavia collected the ingredients. The cauldron was heated and they waited until the bottom began to go red and fiery with the heat. Tavia dropped in the mushroom tips and shrunken head dust and both girls watched it simmer. Virginia felt quite bored by potions as always. She really didn't care to understand "the finer art" as Snape often put it. All it was like was baking and Virginia detested that. "Ginny wake up! Add the next ingredient" Tavia said impatiently as Virginia had trailed off for a second. Snapping back to reality Virginia dropped in the fingernail clippings of a nymph. Just as she did Tavia yelled. "NO!" Virginia was to shocked and the minute the fingernails hit the murky blue mixture they turned a sizzling pink color and began to eat away at the pewter cauldron. "You were suppose to add the slug intestines" Tavia said as the cauldron gave way and the pink liquid began to soak the floor hissing as it spread. Students shrieked and jumped on desks to avoid it. "Weasley! I suppose that you are to blame for this AGAIN" Snape said standing up from his desk. "Class is dismissed early. I will have to get someone to clean this up." The class smiled almost happy to have the excuse to leave early. "Oh Ms. Weasley you stay behind" Snape said clearly. Virginia watched longingly as the rest of her class filed out of the classroom quite pleased. As soon as the last student had filed out Snape's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Weasley this is the fifth time this has happened and it is only the second month of school" he said angrily. "You obviously have no respect for my class or your fellow students. I am taking ten points from Gryffindor, you will have detention with me tonight and I am banning you from the Halloween banquet" he said sounding gradually happier as he continued to pile on the punishment. "Yes Professor" Virginia said sadly. She felt embarrassed. This wasn't the first time that this had happened and it was terribly mortifying. "Good, now get out of my sight Weasley." He said. Virginia hurried out of the class careful to avoid the sizzling pink liquid on the floor. Virginia hurried away. By the end of the day things hadn't improved, she was attacked by a snap dragon in Herbology, the Boggart had scared her out of her wits in Defense against the Dark Arts and as she was heading out of the Great Hall after dinner Jora had called her an ugly git, she acted as though Virginia couldn't hear her. Virginia now quite upset was planning on returning to the Gryffindor towers and going to sleep when Professor McGonagall had stopped her in the hall. "Ginny dear I was speaking to Snape, and it seems that your Potion's mark is extremely low." She paused at this to see if Virginia would defend herself. She didn't so McGonagall continued. " So instead of you not getting to go to the Halloween Banquet Snape has arranged for you to have a tutor" McGonagall explained sternly. "Okay Professor" Virginia sighed. Her day couldn't be getting any worse. "Alright Ginny, well I suppose that you are on your way to your detention. Snape will be explaining everything then" she smiled. Virginia nodded and the teacher walked off. Virginia who had forgotten about the detention changed direction and headed quickly down to the dungeon. Snape was already there waiting. "Miss. Weasley. I trust Professor McGonagall has told you the new arrangements" he said a twisted smile plastered on his face. "Yes sir" Virginia nodded before taking a seat. "good, tomorrow night after dinner, this room will be unlocked for your tutorial session" he said sneering slightly. She pulled out a parchment to begin pretending that she was doing something productive when the door swung open and another student entered. Virginia felt her heart sink, it was Seth. "Hey Professor I'm here to serve my time" he said his voice filled with sarcasm. "Zardask just sit down and be quiet. Do some work" he barked. Seth smiled smoothly and sat down directly behind Virginia. Virginia shifted uncomfortably. She tried to concentrate on the letter she was writing to Bill. Dear Bill Everything at Hogwarts IS terrible. I am having the worst time yet. Even worse than when I got turned zombie by Voldemort's diary. I already had served four detentions, I have to get a tutor for potions, my roommates are awful and I can't seem to do anything right. I miss you Bill! I love the tongue ring and you are right Mom would disown you! I think the journal you got me is great. It was the best present I got. How is everything there? How is Odessa? I miss her too. I hope you can come and visit soon. Loving you forever Your Sister Virginia. She put down her quill pleased to have finished her letter. "Zardask! Weasley! I have to go to see Dumbledore for a while. Stay here and do your work QUIETLY!" he said sternly. Virginia nodded somewhat relieved to have Snape leave the room. The minute he left Seth rose from his seat. "Um, you're suppose to be staying at your desk" Virginia reminded him as he approached Snape's cluttered desk. He began to pull things off of it and examine them. "Shut up Mudblood I don't need you telling me what to do" he said in almost an amused tone. Virginia sighed. "Well, I just don't want to get in trouble, and I am not a mudblood." She said calmly. "Could have fooled me you git" he laughed. Virginia felt herself go red. It was one thing she was never able to control. She turned back to her letter and folded it trying to occupy herself with other things. She could feel Seth's eyes following her causing her to shiver slightly. "I heard about your family" Seth continued. Virginia forced her head up to meet his eyes. His dark eyes focused on hers quite challengingly. "You are all muggle lovers, your whole bloody family is the laughing stock of wizarding families everywhere" he said viciously. He waited for Virginia's retaliation. Virginia trembled slightly and forced herself not too turn away. Seth was only eleven years old, he was quite short and he seemed to hold so much anger and hate. Virginia found herself not being angry with him like he wanted, but quite concerned. "your not the first to think so" she said simply. Seth quieted. He seemed to study her for a second. "What's wrong with you?" he said in puzzled disgust. "Do you have no pride. Why don't you defend yourself". Virginia paused taken off guard by his confusion, but accepted it as a rhetorical question. She attempted to return to her work again and this time succeeded. Seth seemed to have found her lack of protection for herself disconcerting. Virginia was left in peace for the remainder of the detention. **************************************************************************** ********** "Hey, Ginny!" Hermione called after Virginia who was trudging slowly down to the potions room to begin her dreaded tutorial. Virginia turned and waited until Hermione caught up to her. "hey Ginny, have you seen Ron?" she asked looking quite annoyed. "No" Virginia sighed. She had been hoping that her tutor might have been Hermione, but obviously not since she was looking for Ron instead of heading down to the potions room. "Oh, well if you see him, tell him that he was suppose to meet me half an hour ago" she said frustrated. She turned around and walking angrily back in the other direction. Virginia sighed and clutched her potions books closer as she idly walked down the stairs to the dungeon. She tried to take as much time as possible. She pushed open the door and saw a figure looking intensely at an advanced potions book. He looked up as she entered and Virginia felt her stomach drop. Draco Malfoy stood. A cynical smile crossed his face when he saw her shocked expression. "Your late Weasley" he said smoothly. **************************************************************************** Chapter 4 The Picture Friend **************************************************************************** ********** "Draco!" Virginia said in surprise. She set her books down on a desk and looked at him feeling extremely uncomfortable. Something flickered across Draco's stormy eyes when she said his first name but it was gone to quickly for Virginia to assess what it had been. "That's right muggle lover. Didn't Snape tell you I would be your tutor?" he said almost mockingly. He was quite aware that she wouldn't be pleased with the teaching arrangements. "No" Virginia said nervously. She slid into a chair at a cauldron and pulled open her books to signal that she had gotten over the shock. "Well I will be" Draco said smugly. "Now we will start with the last five potion mixes you have done. Apparently I have heard you didn't get one right" he sneered pulling a stool up to her desk to face her. Virginia sighed and pulled out her notes and handed them to Draco so he could see what she had done. "Bloody hell no wonder you are failing Potions. Your notes are pathetic" Draco said in disgust throwing the notes back at Virginia with disdain. "You can start be rewriting all of these" he said standing up and going to sit back where he had been reading earlier. "Okay" Virginia said desperately trying to maintain control. She was aching to just jump up and run out of the classroom. She wouldn't have wished Draco as a tutor on her worst enemy. She silently began write out her new notes. There was at least ten pages of them and they would take her a good long time. Two broken quills and about an hour later Virginia finished the notes feeling now quite annoyed. She felt as though Draco had made her do them again just to spite her. She looked over to where he had been reading intently for the last hour. His gray eyes hungrily searched the pages. His usually neatly gelled blond hair now had strands falling into his eyes. Virginia studied him as he read peacefully. "I know I may be incredibly handsome, but it is still rude to stare" Draco said bringing his eyes up to lock with hers. Virginia flushed embarrassed to have him catch her watching him. "I-I'm finished." She said placing the neatly written pages infront of her. Draco stood up and swiped them off the table. His eyes scanned them quickly. "Fine, slightly pitiful but I will accept them. Now get out of my sight and prepare to actually do something productive tomorrow" Draco said before turned bluntly and exiting the classroom. Virginia sat there for a moment before collecting her notes and books and leaving the room. She hurried up to the Gryffindor common room pausing quickly to tell the portrait the password. (snitch) and then she went up to her dorm room. Upon opening the door she found Tavia, Drusilla and Jora all sitting and talking. They stopped abruptly as she entered. "Ginny, so nice to see you got back from your tutoring session" Jora said her voice filled with sarcasm. "We were just talking about who is cute this year" Drusilla informed her in an inviting fashion. Jora glared as Drusilla did this but changed her mind. "Yes, Ginny do join us. I would be interested to know your point of view" Jora said her voice dripping with animosity. Virginia though reluctant went and sat apprehensively on Tavia's bed where the discussion was being held. "Did you guys notice how cute Colin is this year!" Tavia suddenly exclaimed as though she had been dying to say it. Drusilla wrinkled her nose with disgust and Jora just laughed. "Well I personally think that Draco Malfoy is the hottest guy in school" Jora said stating it like a fact rather than an opinion. "Don't YOU think so Ginny" she challenged as though daring her to object. Virginia tried to restrain from having a similar look of dislike that Drusilla had just had. "Um, I guess he is okay" she said simply. Her insides writhed at the very idea. It was too scary. Draco was an intimidating person and she couldn't ever imagine finding him anything more than terrifying. "Well I think he is simply gorgeous" Tavia said her voice becoming dreamy. "I wish he wasn't a Slytherin, then he would be perfect" "Well, Thomas Oceana from Ravenclaw is definitely the cutest boy in our grade" Drusilla said her voice edging on whimsical. Virginia became very bored with the conversation. Tavia wouldn't stop about Colin Creevey, Drusilla was obsessed with Thomas Oceana and Jora was constantly calling claims to Draco, which made Virginia feel sick every time his name came up. Eventually the conversations stopped and Virginia was released from the incessant torture of socializing with fifteen year old girls. She crawled into bed and began to think of how pathetic it was to avoid her own peers. She listened as Tavia and Jora still whispered as they were falling asleep, but soon Virginia was quite sure she was the only one still awake. She sighed and tossed and turned for most of the night. **************************************************************************** ********** "So Ginny are you going to come with us to find it?" Hermione asked Virginia as they sat in the Great Hall eating dinner. Virginia looked up suddenly from her plate. She was absolutely exhausted, she had barely slept at all in the last few nights. "to look for Salazaar Slytherin's private Balcony. It is suppose to be hidden somewhere in Hogwarts and looks right over the lake" Ron said somewhat annoyed that she hadn't been listening. "Oh right, no I have a tutoring session" Virginia said somewhat relieved. Even her tutorial with Draco that she had every night sounded more appealing than going on a wild goose chase guaranteed to get them all detentions. "Well I bet some of those Slytherin's know where it is" Harry grumbled looking irritated at the Slytherin table at the other side of the Great Hall. "Like they would tell you" Hermione snorted. "Well I should go" Virginia said standing up suddenly interrupting Harry retaliation. "Tutorial and all" she shrugged. "Bye Ginny" Ron said as she left the Great Hall. Virginia walked slowly down to the Potions lab. Upon opening the door she was relieved to find that Draco wasn't there yet. She set up quickly and began her next potion. Draco always told her the potion they would be practicing the next day and she was particularly looking forward to the one that they were doing tonight. It was called altus cupio potion. Which Draco had informed her snottily meant Deep Desire. Upon drinking the elixir you would feel compelled to reveal your greatest and most personal wish. The only problem with the potion was that it lasted only a few minutes and when having it you go in a trance like state and cannot recall who you spoke to or what you said. Virginia heated the cauldron and gathered her ingredients. As she grabbed her pixie wings she noticed Draco enter the room silently. Virginia pretended not to notice but couldn't help to observe that it almost seemed as thought the temperature dropped. She shivered and moved closer to the heated cauldron. "I see you're here early for once Weasley" Draco said almost angry to see that she was progressing. "Yes, I am starting Cupio Altus" she said taking no notice of his obvious contempt. Draco came and sat on a stood studying her as she began to perform the potion. "Don't screw this one up. If you get this right I might be able to stop tutoring dolts like you" Draco sneered angrily as Virginia gently put Hippogriff feathers into the simmering. The liquid turned a jeweled blue color that made Virginia feel content. "Cupio Altus" she whispered softly. The nectar shimmered a silver color before returning to the blissful blue. Draco drew closer and looked at the potion. "Well it isn't too bad" he said a note of surprise in his tone. "The only way to know for sure though is to test it" he laughed looking at Virginia with an evil glint. "Draco, I certainly will not take this potion in your presence." Virginia said firmly. "Don't worry Weasley, I already know your whole crush on Potter. It won't be a shock" Draco jeered pouring the blue liquid into a vile. "I am sorry Draco but no" Virginia said desperately wishing that she had the ability to say something cruel. She was angry that Draco so naturally assumed that he knew her life and what she was about so easily. "No! you would say no to your instructor! Why Weasley is this a pathetic attempt to stick up for yourself? Better try again Muggle Lover" he scoffed with a malevolent smile. Virginia felt her self grow red. "I am going to go to my dorms now. I am tired" Virginia said trying to calm herself so her face would lose the siren red color. Virginia collected her things and began to walk out of the classroom. "Jeez Weasley defend yourself. For the last few weeks I have don't nothing but insult your family, insult you and insult your work but not once have you ever lashed out. You don't even get emotional." Draco said looking quite disconcerted. "What is wrong with you?" he asked. He sounded quite disturbed and disgusted by it. Virginia turned to him slowly. Her cheeks still flamed red but as always her eyes were transfixed and indifferent. "Shall I meet you down here tomorrow" she asked calmly trying to keep her voice from wavering. Draco seemed taken back by her total disregard for his comments but recovered his composure quickly. "Um, sure" he said. Virginia nodded and left the room and Draco behind. As Virginia entered the seemingly empty hallway a hand reached out and grabbed her. She gasped with surprise and turned to see Harry looking worried down at her. "Ginny! What were you doing?" he hissed dragging her away from the Potions classroom. Virginia eased her arm away but he didn't seem to notice. "I was practicing my potions. I already told you guys that" Virginia said casually quickening her pace so Draco wouldn't come out of the class and see Harry interrogating her. "With MALFOY" Harry said in disgust. "Ginny lucky I found you while searching for the balcony. I bet Hermione could tutor you" he said eager to not have her anywhere near Draco. "Well actually my sessions are almost finished so I'm okay" Virginia said gently. Suit yourself" Harry said looking quite displeased that she wasn't very enthusiastic to drop her current educator. "I guess I will see you around" he said lamely. Virginia nodded and hurried up to her common room to begin her other homework. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia hurried down to the potions room. She was overjoyed. Her most recent test had shown that she had gone up twenty percent in the course. She couldn't wait to tell Draco that she didn't need to be tutored anymore. When she arrived the room was empty. Virginia frowned slightly. She knew that she was right on time and Draco was usually early. "Hello" a voice said behind. Virginia jumped at the unfamiliar sound. She turned to see a beautiful girl about her age in the picture behind her. "Oh hi" Virginia said turning to face her. She wore a blood red robes and her dark brown hair was curled into glossy ringlets. "Is that your painting?" she asked. It certainly didn't look like it should go with her. It was a farm scene and the dainty girl seemed quite out of place. "Oh no, my frame is- well it is in another part of the school. I was just wandering" she explained. "My name is Dreya" she smiled. 'I'm Virginia" Virginia smiled. "How long have you been at Hogwarts?" "Oh, I have been here since it opened. I don't get to see many students though. Not many come to my part of the school" she smiled. Virginia settled herself down on a desk and continued to talk with Dreya. "So now I don't have to take tutoring anymore" Virginia continued explaining to the Dreya. "Well, were is your tutor then?" Dreya asked looking around the still empty potions room. "We have been talking for nearly an hour." "Really? It doesn't seem that long. I don't have many people to talk to either" Virginia admitted. "Hey why are you down here anyway?" she asked looking suspicious. "Oh, just avoiding Sir Cadogen. He is constantly trying to "Woo" me as he puts it" she giggled. "That and I was going to head down and see the Halloween Banquet." "Oh that's right! No wonder Draco isn't here. The Banquet is tonight!" Virginia said slapping her forehead. "I was so busy with my studies I didn't even have time to get a costume or anything." She said regretfully. "Well" Dreya hesitated looked hopefully at Virginia. "You could stay and talk to me instead." She bit her lower lip. Virginia smiled and nodded. "That sounds much better then going to some banquet" she said sincerely. Dreya smiled happily. Virginia could tell that she was really deprived of interaction with people her own age. "so actually when I was painted. I was only a baby. I grow really slow in comparison to witches. Currently I am fifteen." She smiled. "Me too" Virginia smiled. She yawned. 'It is getting late Dreya I should go" she said regretfully. "Bye Virginia" Dreya said sounding only mildly disappointed. "I'll see you around I guess" she said before disappearing out of the picture. Virginia watched her scurry to other pictures before sliding out of the potions lab. Virginia gathered her things and left the room and ran straight into a tall figure. Looking up she winced. It was Draco. "Weasley! What are you doing down here" he said harshly. His eyes looked down to her potions books in her hands. "Are you that anti-social that you choose to study rather than eat!" Draco said revolted. "Um, I was just-I just" Virginia tried to search for her words but with no avail. "I was just going to bed" she said finally. 'Whatever. Snape told me your most recent mark. It looks like I have stop tutoring muggle-lovers" he said pleased. With that he continued down the hall. Virginia sighed and hurried up to her common room. Her stomach growled because she was yet to have dinner but she ignored it and went to bed feeling slightly happy. For once she had a friend who knew her name. **************************************************** Chapter 5 A Ball ********** Dear Virginia. It is so unbelievably hot! I can barely remember what it was like back in London. Bill is fine, he send his best. And India is unbearable. Luckily we will be going to see your parents soon. (Don't tell them it is a surprise). We have big news to tell them. In your last letter it sounds as though things are going better. You have a new friend. What is her name again. Dreya? I think that is great. I am glad that you past your potions exam. You and Ron are staying on Campus for Christmas right? Well I suppose you wouldn't really know yet. After all it is only November. Bill told me that you guys have a Ball coming up. Any special someone that you are going to take? Let me know every single detail. Oh and that story you sent me! It was great. I keep reading it on my break and these Goblins get more and more angry with me. Oh well. You have a bad influence on me Virginia Weasley! Write me soon. I miss you lots. Love always and forever Odessa. Virginia reread her letter from Odessa for the hundredth time. She couldn't wait to see them again. She pulled her robes closer around her. She was walking slightly behind Jora, Tavia and Drusilla. They were on their way to Hogsmeade for some Christmas shopping and in some cases to pick up their Ball dresses. Drusilla dropped behind to walk with her. "What are you reading?" she asked curiously. "Oh a letter from my brothers girlfriend" Virginia said putting it into her robes. "she writes me sometimes." "Oh, well are you getting dress robes?" she asked trying to make conversation. "I am. Mum sent me some money." She explained. "I got some robes in September" Virginia explained. "Are you going with anyone?" "No" Drusilla said kicking the snow with her foot as they trudged through the streets towards Hogsmeade. "Thomas is going solo" she said mournfully. "Are you going with anyone?" Drusilla asked. Virginia shook her head and blushed. No one had even bothered to ask her. Though Ron had hinted it at Colin much to her embarrassment. Jora who obviously had been listening turned. "I am going with Draco" she smiled smugly. "He asked me two days ago" "You are so lucky" Tavia cooed as though on command. Drusilla nodded in agreement. Virginia shuddered involuntarily. She couldn't imagine dancing with those ice cold eyes. "I know" Jora smiled flipping her dark hair. "I have to go pick up my dress though. Mother had it ordered from India." She explained. When she mentioned India Virginia felt her thoughts drift to Bill. "Did you want to come help me pick out my dress Ginny?" Drusilla asked ignoring the angry glares she received from Jora. "Sure" Virginia smiled. She knew that Drusilla was trying really hard to include her despite Jora. The two girls walked swiftly into a dress shop. The saleslady looked them up and down and decided that they weren't worth enough money to help. "Oh how about this one!" Drusilla said holding up a hot pink dress. 'Pink is my favorite color!" Virginia did her best to nod but thought the dress was quite hideous. "I think I might get it" she said earnestly. She searched the racks as Drusilla admired herself in the ridiculously bright robes. "I don't know Drusilla" she said hesitantly. She touched a soft pink velvet one and pulled it out. "Drusilla what about this one?" she asked holding it up. From the look in Drusilla's eyes, Virginia knew that she had made the right choice. "Its beautiful" Drusilla said in a near whisper. She took it from Virginia and put it on. Virginia was surprised when Drusilla emerged. She looked gorgeous. "Drusilla, wow, you look radiant" Virginia said looking at her in shock. Then she added with a small smile. "Thomas Oceana will notice you for sure". At this Drusilla giggled nervously. She placed the hot pink on back on the rack and decided only seconds later that the pink velvet robes were the right choice. They emerged from the shop "Hey lets go get a butterbeer" Drusilla said happy with her purchases. Virginia nodded and they headed over to the Three Broomsticks for a butterbeer. Drusilla talked avidly on the way but stopped the minute they entered the shop. Virginia looked to where he gaze was averted. A tall sixth year Ravenclaw was talking in depth with Seamus and Dean. "Just go and say hi" Virginia hissed at the now not moving Drusilla. Drusilla only whimpered in response. Virginia rolled her eyes and grabbed Drusilla's hand. She pulled her towards them. Seamus, Dean and Tom all looked up mildly surprised. "Hey Ginny" Seamus said breaking into one of his heart melting smiles. "Hi Seamus" Virginia said with a small smile. "You know my roommate Drusilla right?" she said gesturing to the petrified girl at her side. "Yah, I do. Of course you know Dean, but this is Thomas Oceana. He is a Ravenclaw" Seamus said. Thomas smiled and extended his hand. "Hi" he said with an Irish accent similar to Seamus's. Virginia shook his hand quickly and out of some miracle Drusilla managed to do the same. "So what are you girls doing in Hogsmeade?" he asked directing his question more to Drusilla. Drusilla smiled shyly and said nothing. Rolling her eyes Virginia answered. "We were just picking up our dress robes for the Ball." She explained. "Well did you want to sit for a butterbeer?" Seamus asked. Drusilla managed to nod eagerly at this. "Well I have got to be off. Pavarti wants me to meet her over at Flourish and Blotts" Dean said giving a small smile. He hurried out the door. Virginia found herself sitting between Seamus and Drusilla sipping the warm liquid. "So who are you going with Thomas" Virginia asked sidestepping the swift kick Drusilla tried to give her. "Oh I am going solo" Thomas said getting a funny look on his face. Virginia had her suspicions that Drusilla's kick had connected with him. "So are we" Drusilla said finally finding her voice. "Well I am too. I spent so long trying to get back to the people that asked me, I lost my date" Seamus laughed. "All for the better. I am really not one for balls anyhow." He shrugged. Virginia was surprised by his comment. He was well known for being the most charming guy in the school. Every girl was pretty much dying to date him. "Well you could join our solo act" Virginia joked. She found it easy to be comfortable around him. Seamus smiled broadly at this comment. "Sounds great. How about you Thomas?" he said enthusiastically. "Sure why not. If there isn't Irish at the shindig, then they can't expect a proper party" he smiled. Virginia watched as Drusilla pretty much melted into a pile of goo. Virginia drank the last of her butterbeer wondering how much longer she would have to sit with them until she could go back and write. **************************************************************************** ********* "Okay now spin one more time for me" the mirror directed Virginia as she looked steadily at her own reflection. She was quite surprised when Drusilla had attacked her early with make-up and other beauty products. Now looking at the results she felt extremely unsure of herself. The silky dress was changing from the lavender to a light blue as she shifted. The robes were long sleeved and airy. Drusilla had applied make-up bringing out Virginia's large brown eyes. Her skin still looked very pale but her lips were a soft red color. Her hair had been coiled up on her head and looked much darker due to the gel. She spun another time for the mirror. "You look beautiful" a voice said behind. Virginia turned and smiled as Dreya slipped into the picture behind her. "I don't even recognize myself" Virginia confessed. "Drusilla went a little make-up happy" "Well, I am completely envious." Dreya said looked longingly at her. "You look enchanting" she smiled. "Thank you" Virginia smiled. She touched her hair self consciously. "Now go knock them dead" Dreya smiled. "And I want every detail when you get back" she demanded. The portraits in the Great Hall are always too crowded and I can never see the activities." She explained sadly. "I will be sure to" Virginia winked. She hurried out of the room and arrived down at the common room. Drusilla was waiting there and looked as though she could be sick. Her blond hair was loosely tied in a ribbon the same color as her velvet pink robes. Her big brown eyes looked relieved when she saw Virginia approach. "Jora came by" she said in a low voice. Virginia noticed the terrified look on her face. "She told me that I was making a mistake with being your friend" she explained. Virginia nodded calmly. She knew what was coming next. "Its okay Drusilla, just go with out me." She said quietly. Drusilla's face looked guilty and scared. "I am sorry Ginny" she said grimly. With that she disappeared behind the portrait. Virginia stood too stunned to move for a second. "Just go without her. You don't need her" she heard Dreya say from a nearby picture. Virginia wiped the unshed tears from her eyes and nodded. She walked out of the common room and down to the Ball quietly wishing that she could just forget about the whole thing. Bravely she took a breath and entered the room. A band played a soft crooning tune and couples were dancing across the floor. She saw Drusilla hanging off of Thomas's arm, and Tavia was talking avidly to Seamus Drusilla caught her eye and averted her gaze to where Jora was dancing quite close to a tall blond guy Virginia recognized quickly as Draco. Virginia prepared to leave when she felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to see a very scared looking Colin Creevey. Virginia looked around him trying to find where her brother would be watching this bullied dance. She couldn't see him anywhere. "Hello, would you like to dance?" Colin asked sounded quite nervous. "Colin, I don't see my brother around so you can call off the act" Virginia said. A look of confusion crossed Colin's face quickly. "What? Ginny? Oh I didn't even recognize you!" he exclaimed suddenly realizing who she was. "You look fantastic." Virginia forced a small smile. "I am going to go sit down" she said and walked away leaving Colin standing, his mouth gaping open. She found an empty table and sat down feeling quite pitiful. A fast song came on and Virginia took pleasure in watching Ron trying to keep up with Hermione who seemed to be trying really hard not to laugh at Ron's attempts. She felt a smile creep onto her lips. "Hey! You" an angry voice directed at her. Virginia turned in surprise to see Pansy Parkinson standing over her. She was clinging to Goyle's arm. "This is a Slytherin table" she spat angrily. Virginia realized that she had seated herself at the Slytherin table and stood. She moved slowly into a corner of the room. Couples drifted past as a waltz song began. Virginia felt a jolt hit her. She looked longingly at the couples. "I wish I had someone to dance with" she thought to herself. Wait? Where did that come from. She frowned to herself in confusion. She didn't want anyone. Looking at the floor she knew that it wasn't true. A hand touched her shoulder and she turned to look startled into the face of Draco Malfoy. He wore dark blue robes and his hair was slicked back except for the odd strand that fell in his face. He smirked slightly at her surprise. "Do you want to dance?" he asked extending a hand. Virginia was quite shocked by this. She remembered that Colin hadn't recognized her and realized that neither did Draco. "Okay" she heard herself say. She accepted his hand and he led her out of to the floor. She inhaled sharply as one of his arms encircled his waist. She placed her arm onto his shoulder and with her other hand laced her fingers into his. He led and to no surprise he was an excellent dancer. She suddenly got the sensation like she was floating. Virginia felt as though she was betraying him by not letting him know who she was, but then again he never asked. She felt guilty for she felt guarded with his arms holding her close. His silver gaze didn't leave hers for the entirety of the dance. He seemed to be searching her with them. As the song ended he broke the embrace. He still held her hand gently. He brought it close and kissed her hand gently. A small smile played his lips. "I just don't understand you Weasley. Still no passion, but I know it is there somewhere, even if you can't show it" he smiled and turned and left. Virginia felt herself flush. Draco had known it was her all the time. She watched him return to Jora's side who had been looking ready to breath fire. As Draco returned she reached up and hugged him close. Virginia smiled and felt a little lighter in her step as she returned to the side of the room. She felt the familiar purple glare from Jora follow her all the way there. ************************************************* Chapter 6 Christmas **************************************************************************** ********** Dear Virginia Happy Christmas! Sorry it took me so long to write again Love. I have been deathly busy. I am heading over to Mom and Dad's sometime over the holidays as a surprise. Odessa is going to go see a friend and then join me. I am sorry that you guys have to stay at Hogwarts for Christmas. Probably for the best. Persy is going to Penelope's, Charlie is staying until he finishes catching his dragon and the twins I think are going to America on a business venture. I still have to work. You should expect your present on your bed Christmas morning. Odessa refused to tell me about the Ball you went to. So I stole her letter from you. Hope you don't mind. So you danced with a Malfoy! Well don't let Ron catch wind or he might fall over and die, but cudo's! It takes guts to tango with a son of serpents. I hope everything is going well. Oh Ron owled me the other day asking about a secret Slytherin balcony. I heard that rumor when I was in school too. Apparently you have to find the portrait of the mysterious daughter. Once you find her guess her name and she will let you in. I hope that helps! Lots of love and kisses Bill. Virginia closed her letter. She was sitting at the Great Hall. Ron was busy talking secretively with Harry and Lavender. Hermione was idly reading a huge book and munching on her toast. "Oi! Ron. Bill's says your Balcony is opened by a portrait of a mysterious girl. The password is her name" Virginia said causing Ron to look up in surprise. "Thanks Ginny" He said gratefully. Virginia smiled and finished off her breakfast. Life seemed to finally be going right. She was so happy it was Saturday. Virginia rushed up to her room as soon as she was finished and grabbed her Shakespeare book and her journal. She headed out of her dorm with the intent to go outside and read. As she exited the portrait she ran straight into Jora, Tavia and Drusilla all coming in. "Ginny, so nice to see you" Jora said with an amused smile. "Still reading the muggle literature I see" she said pointing to the large Shakespeare book. "But what could this be" she asked raising an eyebrow curiously at her journal. Virginia tried to advert her away from it but Jora was much too interested. She snatched it from Virginia quickly. "Jora give that back" she said placidly holding out her hand demandingly. Jora seemed know she had hit a nerve. She opened the journal to a page and began to recite it. "It is like a slow suffocation being released. Though the hoarse pain is still there, breathing is no longer a chore." Jora continued reading. Her voice in a mocking high pitched shrill. Suddenly the book was snatched from her hand. Jora turned in surprise to see Draco Malfoy with the book looking darkly at all four girls. "Jora, I do think that this belongs to Weasley" he said calmly. He reached out the book and handed it to her. Virginia only hesitated for a second before taking it. Draco held the book for a second while searching her eyes with his gray ones. Virginia realized when he did this he was looking for that emotion he claimed was missing. She broke away from the eye contact and brushed past all of them on the stairs and headed out for her afternoon. She pushed open the doors leading outside and was greeting with the warm sunlight mixed with the nipping cold of the snow on the ground. She crunched out onto the grounds. The grounds were empty due to the cold and that most of the students had gone home for the holidays. Virginia only could have wished that her roommates had gone, but no such luck. Jora had stuck around because Draco was and the other two wouldn't dare leave her. Virginia found a quiet place under a tree. She sat down gently into the powdery snow. Crossing her legs she began to read. Virginia devoured the words oblivious to the shadow crossing her path. By the time she noticed the sun was completely blocked from her. Virginia looked up in confused to see a figure standing hands on hips over her. She blinked quickly and let her eyes adjust. "Muggle lover. Give me the damn book. I am sick of seeing you reading Muggle crap. If you wanted to come to a bloody Wizards school you should at least respect that, you filth" Seth said infuriated. Before she could react the book was torn from her hand. "Give that back!" Virginia said quite upset. She stood but slipped in the snow. Seth took that opportunity to run. Virginia felt her chest tighten. She knew that would be the last time that she ever saw her book again. Virginia trudged back to the school considerably more lugubrious than early. She walked into the school and saw Tavia and Drusilla standing by themselves in the hallway. "Hey GGGGIINNNY" Tavia said with a slight sneer. "I saw Seth come by with your book. I didn't think you would lend that to him" she giggled. Virginia knew that they knew Seth had stolen it. "Well, he just really loves Shakespeare" Virginia sighed trying to keep her voice steady. She ignored the rest of their offensive banter and walked direction-less down the hall. She fought against her urges to go and find him and demand it. She wouldn't get her book back that way either! She walked aimlessly her head filled with angry thoughts until she heard her name being called. "Virginia! Hey Virginia!" an excited voice called behind her. Virginia turned to see Dreya hopping through pictures and frames to reach her. "Hi" Virginia said trying to look more cheerful. "What are you doing?" "I was just going to say Happy Christmas. I was actually just running away from Sir Cadogen." She laughed. "He is traipsing around here with a mistletoe" she shuddered. Virginia made a face as she pictured him on his fat pony with his lips puckered. "Well then I would make a run for it them" she advised. "You don't have to tell me twice. Why can't there be any decent portraits in this school" she sighed before taking off. "Dreya? Dreya? Where did you go?" they heard the cooing voice of Sir Cadogen say from the other end of the hall. Virginia watched as Dreya appear and disappear through different pictures on her escape waving goodbye to Virginia as she went. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke to the sound of giggles from the other beds. She blinked and let her eyes adjust. It took a minute for her to comprehend the presents on the end of her bed and to realize it was Christmas. Her dorm mates were already comparing gifts and ignored her completely. Virginia opened all of her gifts and surveyed her loot with satisfaction. Her mother had gotten her a white jumper. Ron, Harry and Hermione had sent candy, Bill and Odessa had sent a beautiful amulet that changed color with your emotions. Virginia had put it on and it immediately went gray. It confused her because gray wasn't on the list of colors and didn't mean anything. Charlie and Percy had both neglected to send anything, which Virginia didn't mind because she had done the same. Fred and George had sent a package that Virginia was still wary to open. Virginia changed into her white jumper and a pair of black pants. She tried desperately to run a comb through her hair, with the mirror coaxing advice lazily. Eventually she gave up and skipped down to the Gryffindor common room. "Happy Christmas" she said solemnly to her brother and his friends who were all fiddling with their new gifts. They all managed to murmur Happy Christmas but were still looking at their own gifts. Hermione was reading a new book, Ron was setting up a new version of Wizard Chess and Harry was clipping his broom's tail with his automatic clipper. Virginia decided to deliver her final Christmas Gift. She clutched a painting in her hand as she exited the common room. She went down to the dungeon and placed the picture on the wall firmly. The painting was of a dress. It was a light shade of baby blue and had little white heels at the side of it. In the corner Virginia had painted Happy Christmas Dreya Love Virginia. She knew that Dreya would love to be able to change clothes. Virginia retreated from the room wishing she could see Dreya's reaction, but she didn't want to hang around the potions lab all day. Virginia was heading up the stairs and passed Draco on his way down. He barely even registered she was there, but still managed to make her stomach do flip flops. Virginia was beginning to wonder if those stomach Olympics were more than just her fear of him. "Ginny pass the gravy!" Ron said cheerily as they all sat at the Gryffindor table consuming Christmas Dinner. "Here you go" Virginia sighed with a slight smile. She found it amusing to see how much Ron could attempt to stuff in his mouth in one go. Blinking she simply shifted her food around her plate. It did look good but she blamed Ron for making her not hungry. "So we are going to go look for the balcony after dinner right?" Harry asked after swallowing the last part of his meal. "No! it is Christmas and we are going to spend it happily and trouble free" Hermione said firmly. Virginia didn't listen to Ron's complaining after. She turned to look towards the Slytherin table. Draco sat listening to Seth and Pansy trying to talk to him. Their table was the one with the least amount of people. Virginia wasn't even aware that she was staring until Draco lifted his head to look at her. His eyes questioned her. Virginia just looked back down at her plate and tried to look as though it had just been a short glance. She sensed him turn away. She shivered involuntary and took a bite of her food. What was with her? Why suddenly did she find herself obsessing over him? Why did he look at her like that? Virginia shook her head trying to shoo the questions away. She didn't want to think of it right now. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke the next morning. She put Bill's amulet around her next, which still stubbornly wouldn't turn from the swirling gray. She found that her room was empty. Jora and the others were probably down at Breakfast, she guessed. Virginia hurried and dressed eager to get to breakfast. She was hungry because she hadn't eaten very much at dinner the night before. She reached the common room and found it was empty, except for Professor McGonagall who stood firmly in the room. "Ginny, you have to come with me" she said quietly. Her eyes were cold and sad. Virginia knew immediately something was wrong, something was terribly wrong. **************************************************************************** Chapter 7 My Heart is Going to Explode **************************************************************************** ********** "Come on Ginny, You have to come with me" Professor McGonagall repeated solemnly. Virginia froze. She didn't want to know what she had to say. "No" Virginia heard herself say. Her voice was steady. "Um, I have to go to breakfast. Can we talk later" she said desperately wanting to get away. "No" McGonagall said grabbing her shoulder gently. "You have to come now" she said. Virginia noticed that her eyes had a film of tears over them. Virginia stayed silent and let McGonagall led her out of the common room. They walked slowly and stop infront of the familiar Gargoyle. Virginia remembered the Gargoyle from her first year. "Licorice Whips" McGonagall said quietly. The Gargoyle slid to one side and they descended the stairwell. McGonagall opened the door to the office. Virginia widened her eyes. Ron was already sitting in one of the chairs infront of Dumbledore. A filthy looking man stood beside him clinging to an equally distraught looking girl. "Ginny please sit" Dumbledore said quietly. Virginia was quite surprised by the look of distorted pain across his face. She sat quietly beside Ron who was not moving or showing any emotion at all. "I am afraid to say I have very bad news for you" he said obviously having difficulties keeping his voice steady. The man beside him placed a hand on Dumbledore's shoulder, "I have to tell them" he said huskily. It was evident that he had been crying. He turned and focused his eyes first on Virginia then on Ron. Virginia felt herself convulse. She realized that the defeated looking man infront of him was none other than her own brother Percy. His usually neat red hair was messy and unwashed, his face had a scruffy beard beginning to grow. His robes were wrinkled and terribly dirty. His puffy swollen eyes looked at hers with inexplicable torment. "Last night some D-Death Eaters went to the Burrow, T-They were trying to kill Mom and Dad..." Virginia let out a small strangled cry, "but Mom and Dad, they were not there. they had.they had left. The Death Eaters blew up the burrow." Percy now had tears streaming down his cheeks at uncontrollable rates. Virginia gripped the arms of the chair until she began to feel the fabric tear beneath her. "and B-B-Bill w-was -t-there" he said collapsing back into the girls arms. Virginia watched him with acute confusion. Ron was now slipping lower into his seat. An anguished cry rose from him as he hit the floor. "I-I-is Bill, is B-bill" Virginia fought to get out the words but her throat was closing off slowly. Dumbledore nodded "You parents have gone into hiding, I am their secret keeper, you won't be able to see them until it is safe." Dumbledore explained. Virginia tried to fathom what had just been said. There was more talking but Virginia blocked it out. A small ringing sound had began in her ears. Bill, Bill wasn't dead. She remembered the picture she had of him. She saw the tiny tongue ring, she saw Odessa's smile. Bill was going to be writing tomorrow. He wasn't dead. Her ears were still ringing, what was that thumping? Was her heart going to explode? Could hearts explode? Where would she live? The burrow was gone. Bill was dead. Virginia was dead, now all that was left was Ginny. She felt light headed. "Ginny, sweetie," she heard someone call. She looked up to see the girl with Percy lean down to become eye level with her. "Ginny, its me Penelope" she said calmly. Her eyes had tears in them and she was speaking to her as though she was a small child. Virginia just blinked unsure of what to say. Bill was dead. "Ginny do you want to talk" she said. Virginia looked past her. Bill was dead. Her heart was about to explode. Nothing was going to be the same. "I have to be alone" she said surprised that she could vocalize anything. "Okay," Penelope said. Virginia stood knocking her chair over. It didn't matter. Percy was trying to regain control and Ron was sitting silently on the floor. His eyes were clenched shut. Virginia couldn't take it. She bolted from the room. She ran down the corridors unaware of where she was going. Everything hurt, everything was numb, everything was different. She felt the tears stinging her eyes. It wasn't going to end, it wasn't going to get better. Her surroundings blurred and she was feeling dizzy. She eventually stopped running. Her throat was burning. "Virginia?" a quiet voice said behind her. Virginia turned slightly blinded by tears to see Dreya. She was sitting in a large chair, Virginia was only half aware that she had discovered where Dreya's portrait was. "Dreya" she said in a strangled cry. Dreya looked quite alarmed. Then swung open to reveal an opening. Virginia just ran through it. She found herself out on a balcony. Virginia threw herself against the side of the railing and looked at the precarious drop below her. She let out a scream of pain. She knew she couldn't stand. She couldn't breath. She just lay against the ledge wishing for death, wishing for Bill. "Who's there?" a voice said behind her. Virginia turned and saw Draco remove himself from the shadows. His face visibly changed when he saw the state in which Virginia was. Virginia looked at him. Anger began to boil inside of her. His father, his father was a death eater. He was a death eater. He killed my brother, he killed me. She felt unearthed hate rise in her as she looked at his gray eyes. "It was you" she said ignoring the tears that flowed down her cheeks. "You killed me, you did this. You fucking death eater" she cried furious. Virginia rushed forwards and began to hit him. she didn't care where or how hard. She just wanted him to hurt like she did. She beat her hands on his chest. Angry tears spilled down her cheeks. Draco didn't try and fight back. "I hate you, I hate you, you I." Virginia choked out. She let her arms stop. She was too defeated. She fell against her arms and sobbed. It was too awful. She felt Draco's arms encircle her and stroke her hair. She felt the urge to break away but the pain over took her. "My heart is going to explode" she whispered through trembling lips. She felt the world fall away and everything went black. ... **************************************************************************** ********** Chapter 8 Fever **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia blinked awake. She sat up startled when she realized she didn't recognized any of her surroundings. She was lying in a large bed covered in green blankets. Silvery green curtains enveloped the bed she lay in. She sat up with a sharp breath. What was going on? Suddenly it all came back to her and she felt as though bricks were crushing her. She fell back down onto the bed. She remembered hitting Draco and then everything was a blank from then on. She realized she must be in Draco's room. She pushed aside the curtains and saw three other beds identical to the one she was in. Virginia still shaking sat up. She placed her feet on the cold ground. She left the bed and looked around the room confused. There was no one there. She felt like she had swallowed sea water, from the amount of crying she had done. She flushed and felt embarrassed as she recalled how she had lashed out at Draco so angrily. She felt a slight headache but ignored the throbbing pain. She saw the door leading to the bathroom and walked slowly over. Pushing open the door she saw that it was completely empty. Towels lined a wall. Virginia grabbed one fluffy towel and started a shower. She stripped down out of her robes and stepped into the scalding water. It was much too hot but Virginia pretended not to notice the uncomfortable burning. She let the tears trickle down her cheek. She was still trying to cope. She was filled with remorse. Bill was really gone, he had died while trying to surprise their parents for Christmas. . . . Virginia remembered that she was the only one who knew he was going back for Christmas. She was the only one. Odessa had sounded so excited in her letter...was Odessa dead? Virginia felt a cry rise from within her and she collapsed to the floor. It was just too much. Bill had been everything. She felt like nothing. The hot water was causing her pale skin to become red and raw. She cried but was run down by the sound of the water. Virginia curled up with her back against the wall. Her face buried in her knees. She cried and let the scorching water run over her, hiding her tears in the rush. "Virginia? Virginia?" a voice called sounding frantic. Virginia didn't both to answer. She wasn't sure how long she had been in the shower but the water was becoming icy and she shivered involuntary. Suddenly she saw a blurry blond headed person run into the bathroom. "Virginia" he said with a worried tone. Virginia wanted to hid. She realized she wasn't wearing any clothing and didn't want them to see her. Virginia felt a blanket being wrapped around her. Strong cold hands grabbed her and lifted. Virginia was feeling so very cold. She tried to warm herself by moving closer to the blond person who had picked her up. "I am so cold" Virginia said quietly. She felt sleepy. She cuddled in closer to the person. "You have a fever" the voice said. She knew that voice. Whose voice was it? She tried to remember. She couldn't, it was too cold. "Okay" Virginia said drowsily. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia felt like she was floating. It was dark and misty. She felt warm and soft. "How long has she been like this?" Virginia woke to hear voices talking. "Three days, her fever was brought on by the water and stress. She was so weak. This could have gotten a lot worse" another voice said. Virginia wondered who they were talking about. She felt bad for that person. She hated being sick... "Her brother came to visit but it is so painful for him. He is dealing with his brothers death, his sisters sickness is too much on him" the female voice continued. "Draco Malfoy is here everyday, holding her hand and talking to her quietly. He has been quite a driving force" I wish Draco would hold my hand, Virginia mused feeling spacey. I hope that girl will be okay. Virginia said before drifting back into sleep again. **************************************************************************** ********** "it will be okay Virginia" a whispered voice said waking her from her deep sleep. Virginia didn't open her eyes. She was too tired. Who was talking to her? "I didn't mean to leave you for that long. I'm sorry. I didn't know what happened" the voice said. It was filled with remorse. Virginia wanted to comfort him and tell them it was okay. She was fine. They didn't have to worry about her. "You look beautiful while you sleep. " the voice said. she felt warmth as her forehead was kissed. "I will visit tomorrow" the voice said gently. Virginia sensed them get up and leave. She was sad..she didn't want him to leave. She fought against the blackness but lost and was soon pulled back into sleep. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia opened her eyes. She felt much better than she had in a long time. She sat up and looked around. She was in the hospital wing. She blinked and looked at all the card, candy and flowers at the end of her bed. She had no clue what had happened. She remembered going to take a shower and then it was all a blank after that. She reached over and opened up all of her cards. They were a mix of feel better, and deepest sympathy cards. She received one from practically everyone, even people she didn't know. She reached out and grabbed the last one. "Ginny, you are awake" a voice snapped. Virginia looked up in surprise to see Madam Pomfrey standing in the doorway. "Yes" Virginia said lowering the last card, she would have to read it later. "How long have I been out for? What happened?" she asked quite confused. "Well, you have been sick for nearly a week. Mr. Malfoy brought you in spiking a fever and not wearing anything but an over robe." Madam Pomfrey explained handing her a goblet. "Here drink this". Virginia drank it with out protest. As she finished warmth spread from head to toe. "Why wasn't I wearing anything" Virginia demanded feeling quite flushed. She realized that something must have happened in the shower. She probably fainted and was found by Draco. Madam Pomfrey was about to answer when she was interrupted. "Ginny!" the voice cried. Virginia saw Ron come in to the room. His looked like he hadn't slept in days. "Ron" Virginia choked out. She wasn't sure why she was so emotional about him, but she felt like she hadn't seen him in a long time. She felt like she needed him. Ron embraced her into a hug fiercely. "Don't you ever do that to me again Ginny. I couldn't stand it" Ron said strongly. Virginia nodded and continued to hug her older brother. She felt better knowing that he would be there and going through the same thing. She clung to his robes tightly. "It hurts so bad Ron, it hurts" she said sadly. Ron nodded and stroked her hair gently. Virginia had a flash, she remembered that Draco had stroked her hair, he had comforted her even though she had attacked him. Virginia pulled away from Ron quickly. "Draco he." "I know" Ron said with a slight smile. "I have already thanked him" Virginia sighed in relief that Ron hadn't been angry with him. She also guessed that Draco didn't tell anyone the whole story. She was grateful for that. "Can I go to class?" Virginia said turning to face Madam Pomfrey. "Certainly not! You have just been through a horrible trauma, you need recovery time" Madam Pomfrey said quite strictly. "NO!" Virginia said surprised at her own firm tone. "I want to get on with my life. Let me go" she said her eyes challenging Madam Pomfrey. "Fine, but Ronald I want you to watch over her" Madam Pomfrey said sounded defeated. Ron nodded and Madam Pomfrey left the room in a huff. Virginia slipped out of bed and Ron helped her back to the Gryffindor Towers. As they entered everyone stood and looked at them solemnly as a sign of respect. Ron nodded to them appreciatively and led Virginia up to her dorm. When they arrived Jora, Drusilla and Tavia were already there. Ron led Virginia to her bed where she lay down, happy to be back in her room again. "Don't worry Ron, we will take care of her" she heard Jora said to Ron. Virginia wanted to tell Ron not to leave her with them, but didn't know how to vocalize it. "Ginny! We heard all about your troubles" Tavia said sitting on the bed beside her. Jora and Drusilla came and sat around her as well. "We just knew that you would need real friends around you in your time of need. We have vowed not to leave your side until you get through your time of need." Jora announced. Her voice was sugary and Virginia felt even more sick as she heard it. Virginia didn't answer, but buried her head in the pillow with the intent to block them out. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia entered the Great Hall. She felt horrible. She had just received her first letter from her parents since the incident that happened four weeks ago. They had been brief and with no description of where they were hiding. It had sent Virginia barreling back into the hole of despair she had been trying to claw her way out of. As she entered the room she could barely see around her. She was surrounded as usual by the same bodyguards that hadn't left her since the day that they promised they wouldn't. They treated her like glass, like she would break if someone said the wrong thing to her. "Here Ginny, sit here sweetie" Jora cooed gently gesturing to a seat beside her. Mutely Virginia sat. Tavia piled food onto Virginia's plate while Drusilla gave everyone warning looks not to talk to Virginia. Virginia shifted her food around her plate silently. She hadn't eaten anything except the odd bite for show, in nearly four weeks. Virginia had decided that her dorm mates were either acting like this out of guilt or because they wanted some of the attention that Virginia was loathing for the student body. "Hey Ginny, we are going to go to Quidditch practice did you want to watch?" Harry asked tentatively. Virginia shook her head no. She knew that Harry was trying to make her feel better, but she couldn't go watch Quidditch. "Of course she can't go. She doesn't need that kind of support" Tavia snapped. "Honestly Harry, you of all people should understand what it is like to loose someone" she said shifting herself closer to Virginia. Virginia winced as she saw Harry's hurt face, but said nothing. Jora began talking avidly about something, but Virginia wasn't listening. It was getting awfully hot in there wasn't it? Why were they all sitting so close to her? Did Jora have to talk quite so loud? She wondered to herself. "So anyway I when I heard that Will died I was so hurt for Ginny, I mean we are like her closest friends and she needs friends right now" Jora said gushing to Lavender who was listening intently. Virginia lifted her head. She felt her emotions begin to surface and bubble. She jumped up from her seat and back away from the table as though it had suddenly burst into flames. "Ginny, were are you going?" Drusilla asked her face filled with concern. Virginia looked around as though she was trapped in a corner. She had to get away, these weren't her friends, they didn't know her. "Ginny, come and sit back down. You need to eat" Tavia said in demanding tone. Virginia looked around. She felt dizzy, what was happening? Virginia let her eyes rest on Jora. "His name was Bill" she choked angrily. "not Will. And you don't know me at all! You tormented me up until his death! You don't know anything about me. Never come near me." Virginia said her voice trembled with anger. Jora pretended to have a shocked look on her face, but Virginia could see the contempt lying beneath the surface. "Its okay Ginny, you can come sit with me and Hermione" she heard Ron said. Virginia turned to his brother who was clutching Hermione's hand and looking at her with a worried expression. Virginia forced herself not to let the tears drowning her eyes to spill over. Ron had someone to comfort him, he would get through this. "NO!" Virginia yelled. By then the entire Great Hall had gone silent. "My name is VIRGINIA!. Bill - he knew- Bill knew my name" she said still fighting back the tears. Virginia felt herself calm as she uttered the last words. She turned and bolted from the room not wanting to see their pity for her. She didn't need pity. She didn't need THEIR pity....... **************************************************************************** Chapter 9 Draco **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia rushed out of the room still refusing to let the tears slide. She had to get a grip she was still so pathetic. Virginia found an empty corridor and slid down leaning against the wall for support. She sat on the ground and let the silent tears slip down her cheeks. Crying seemed to be coming an every day occurrence with her now. She heard footsteps but ignored them. No one seemed to care if 'Poor Little Ginny' broke down into tears anymore. She buried her head in her hands so at least when they passed she wouldn't have to look at the sympathetic face they always plastered on. She heard the footsteps get closer and stop directly infront of her. "You know, making large scenes at dinner really ruins peoples appetites" she heard the voice say. She was surprised the voice held no pity, only slight amusement. Virginia lifted her head to see Draco standing over her. She felt her stomach do a flip flop. "What do you want?" Virginia asked her voice still trembling. Draco gave a half smile at her. "To pick you off the ground" he said extending his hand. Virginia looked at it cautiously and quite shocked before accepting. Draco pulled her to her feet. "There isn't that better than the ground?" he asked wiping a stray tear from her cheek. Virginia was confused by his kindly manner. "I'm sorry I hit you" she said quietly. She had been longing to tell him this for quite awhile. "Hey, I am a tough guy. I can take it" Draco shrugged with a slight smile. "Besides I probably deserved it" Virginia blushed and said nothing. She wasn't sure how to respond, she rarely responded to Draco at all. "Come on, we will take a walk" Draco said pulling her forward slightly. "Okay" Virginia nodded, only half realizing that Draco still was clutching her hand. She let him lead her outside into the cold morning air. Virginia shivered involuntarily. "Here" Draco said. He removed his cloak and wrapped it around her. "Thanks" Virginia said. Her head was screaming with questions, but she was too afraid to say anything at all. "I was really worried about you" Draco admitted after a tense silence. Virginia felt him tighten his grip on her hand slightly. "I went to go see you in the hospital" "What happened?" Virginia asked dying to know the whole story, everything she tried to remember came to her in pieces. "I-I can't remember anything" Draco sighed, he seemed hesitant to re-live the moment. "Well, I can only guess that somehow you figured out how to get to the Slytherin balcony. You knew Dreya, the mysterious daughters, name. Well you came out and I was there. You started to hit me then you stopped and ended up fainting." Draco explained. "I wasn't sure what to do, but I took you into my room to lie down, while I went to go get a teacher. I didn't mean to take that long, I couldn't find Dumbledore's office. When I got back, you were in the shower, you have ice cold water running over you, except you were extremely hot. I took you down to Madam Pomfrey's where you stayed for a week with high fevers." Draco finished. "I am sure you can fill in the rest after that" "Oh" Virginia flushed. She hadn't meant to seem like so much trouble. "It was just that.." "You don't need to explain, I know what it is like to lose someone" Draco interrupted quietly. There was an uncomfortable silence. Virginia wanted to know who he had lost but he didn't seem to be opening up to the topic. "Dreya is the mysterious daughter?" she frowned. Dreya had failed to mention the fact that she was the keeper of the mysterious Slytherin Balcony. "Yah, do you know her?" Draco asked seeming relieved for the change of subject. "We are old friends" Virginia nodded. She made a small mental note to go and visit her. They needed to have a long conversation. She looked up and saw that the moon was coming out. It was getting late. "I should go" Virginia said tentatively. She didn't really want to leave, but was unsure why Draco had brought her out here at all. "Don't go yet, there was a reason I wanted to talk to you" Draco admitted seeming quite unwilling to see her go. Virginia looked at him in surprise. "Yes?" Virginia asked trying hard to maintain a none shaking voice. She tried to look elsewhere than his face, but his magnetic silver eyes seemed to draw her to him. She noticed all the former coldness she once found in them had seemed to dissolve. "Virginia" he began slowly. Virginia felt a shiver as he said her name. It sounded so melodious coming from him. "If you do ever need another someone to beat up, or just to talk to" he said his voice filled with concern. He paused for a second before continuing "I am always around" Virginia was shocked, she knew that Draco was acting different, but he seemed to be genuinely concerned, which was more than she had ever seen from him. "Thank you" Virginia said no hiding her surprise. No one had truly offered to just talk with her, let alone volunteer for job as punching bag. There was another uneasy silence, in which Virginia just found herself staring into Draco's eyes. "I should go" she said again. The sky was continually getting dark, and Virginia didn't want to admit it, but she was afraid of being outside at night. "Okay" Draco smiled. He released her hand, and Virginia turned and walked back to the castle slowly. As she reached the door she felt a hand grab her arm. Virginia jumped and turned in surprise to look into Draco's metallic eyes again. Before she could react Draco leaned down and covered her lips with his. She accepted the gentle kiss and everything that had happened seemed to dissolve away leaving only their moment. The kiss only lingered for a second before Draco reluctantly broke away. "Goodnight Virginia" Draco said softly before disappearing into the school and leaving her, stunned and delighted. Virginia gently touched her fingers to her lips, there was still a faint pressure against them. She smiled to herself before slowly making her way up to the Gryffindor tower. "Now where have you been? What are you so happy about?" the fat lady asked raising her eyebrow in curiousity at the dopey smile Virginia couldn't seem to shake from her face. "Manticore" Virginia said her voice slightly whimsical. The Fat Lady sighed and opened the portrait. Virginia drifted in. She felt everything chimerical dissipate as she entered the common room. Ron was sitting infront of the fire. A hardened expression was on his face. He turned as she entered. "Virginia, we have to talk" he said gently. His voice sounded sad and she could tell he had been crying even though he would deny it forever. Virginia slowly and hesitantly went to sit beside him. "Ron, I am sorry about dinner" Virginia said truthfully. "I shouldn't have taken it out on you. You didn't deserve that" Virginia said she was sitting stiffly, afraid that he might begin to yell. "No, Gi--Virginia, I haven't really been paying any attention to you. I thought your friends would be able to comfort you. I guess I never really noticed that they weren't you friends at all." Ron sighed moving closer to her. Virginia was relieved he seemed just as upset about it as she did. "Ron, I want you to call me Ginny, I was just sad." Virginia said firmly. She had been trying to get everyone so desperately to call her Virginia, and when Ron finally did she felt like someone had taken something important from her. "It is just that.B-Bill he use to call me Virginia" "I miss him too Ginny" Ron said with a melancholy smile. "But, we can get through it together, I know you must feel awful, since I have Hermione and I mean she is one of the few things keeping me sane" Ron said tears glistened in his eyes. He wrapped his arm around Virginia and pulled her into a hug. "But you and I are blood, and you know that we will always have one another" he said fiercely. Virginia nodded into his shoulder. "I need you Ron" she said quietly. She felt his grip around her tighten. They held their embrace for what seemed like hours, before Ron released her. "Well, I should go to sleep" Ron sighed. Virginia could see he was fighting against spilling tears over their emotional moment. Ron stood up and walked over to the boys stairs, "It will only get easier from here" Ron said softly before walking up the stairs. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia sat eating breakfast quietly. She scarcely listened to Harry who was trying to get a table wide conversation going about the best Quidditch teams. Ron was out right refusing to participate, since that it wasn't even worthwhile because in his opinion if it wasn't Chudley Cannons, it didn't matter. "Here comes the mail" Hermione announced as owls began to circle to room searching out their owners. She seemed relieved to have something to divert her attention from Quidditch. Virginia didn't bother looking up. It had been two months since she had last received a letter, and it had been from her parents. She wasn't looking forward to getting anymore mail. "Finally" she heard Jora sigh from the other side of the table. "Honestly how long would you think it would take for your own mother to send you something" she complained removing a letter from her owls foot. Virginia was happy to not be near them, it had been quite awhile since her dorm mates had even accepted that she existed at all. They all seemed eager to trivialize what had happened, and to go back to leaving her out of everything. Virginia couldn't have agreed more. Virginia was busy getting lost in her own thoughts when suddenly a large Falcon Owl landed infront of her. It ruffled its feathers quite proud with its ability to deliver a message. Virginia timidly took the letter from it's talons. The large bird didn't seem to want to wait. It took off the minute Virginia grasped the envelope. Virginia looked at the envelope. It was unmarked except for the neat scripture on the front reading, Virginia Weasley. Virginia tore it open hesitantly. Dear Virginia It's me Odessa..I guess you haven't heard from me in three months. Not since... well not since the accident. I must talk to you. It is important. Could you meet me in Hogsmeade this weekend? Please do say you can. I must see you soon. Love always Odessa Virginia put down the letter. Her hands shook. Odessa? She hadn't thought of Odessa in a long time. Quickly she took out a quill and wrote on it quickly without thinking. Saturday 1:00 PM, The Three Broomsticks! I will meet you there Love Virginia. "Harry can I borrow your owl?" Virginia asked looking to see Harry's owl was still present. Harry looked up in surprise at the urgency of her voice. "Sure Ginny" he said. Hedwig seemed to hear him because he flew over to Virginia. Hedwig daintily took the letter and flew out the window. Virginia sighed. She couldn't wait until Saturday. **************************************************************************** Chapter 10 Odessa **************************************************************************** ********* Virginia gently tried harder than usual to tame the snarls in her hair and winced as it pulled painfully. It was Saturday and Virginia was feeling slightly nervous about meeting Odessa. She recalled that she hadn't seen her since Persy's wedding. Her stomach had hatched a butterfly farm and she felt oddly ill. She went down to the Gryffindor common room, where Ron, Harry and Hermione were in deep discussion over the fireplace. "Hello" Virginia said clearing her voice. They all seemed to jump, Virginia guessed they had been having a very private conversation. "Hey Ginny? Heading to Hogsmeade for the weekend?" Hermione asked. Virginia nodded. "I am meeting Odessa" she said revealing the news that she had been hiding from Ron, she searched his face for a reaction, but none came. "Is that a friend of yours Gin? Have a good time then" He smiled oblivious to the reaction that Virginia had expected.. Virginia gave sort of a half smile. She guessed that he really didn't remember all the names of Bill's girlfriends. He use to jump from one to another before Odessa. "Yah, have a good time" Harry said encouragingly. "Yah, I will see you when I get back" she said slowly. Ron nodded smiling and returned to look at the fire again as they entered into another deep conversation. Virginia sighed. It was probably for the best. It had been three months since the accident and Ron seemed to be healing, finally. Virginia ventured out of the tower and began to head down to the exits to head for Hogsmeade. "Hey Virginia" a tired voice echoed behind her as she reached the main floor. Virginia turned to see Dreya who was standing looking exhausted in a painting on the wall. "Dreya! You look like you haven't slept! What's wrong?" Virginia said quite alarmed. She and Dreya had continued their friendship, and Virginia had found comfort in the use of her balcony in the times she wished to be alone. "Sir Cadogen again" she sighed. "He tried to get to my Portrait all night, luckily The Fat Lady was blocking his path. Are you leaving to see Odessa then?" she asked realizing that Virginia was going to Hogsmeade. "Yes" Virginia nodded. "I actually have to get going, I will miss the carriages." She said regretfully. "Well, good luck" Dreya said encouragingly. Virginia nodded and hurried out of the school. She climbed into a carriage which already held Seamus Finnigan, Colin Creevey and Dean Thomas. As she eased in she caught sight of Draco hopping into one with Seth Zardask and Gregory Goyle. He caught her eye for a second before turning back to enter the carriage. Virginia sighed and leaned back in her seat. She listened to the mindless banter between the three boys in her carriage all the way to the small wizarding town. "Well, I have to pick up some sugar quills. That last potions class was torture so I ended up sucking on all three of the ones from before" Dean explained why he was heading to Hogsmeade. "Well, it is Jora's birthday next week, and now that we are a couple, I got to get her something" Colin said. Virginia wasn't surprised to hear the reluctant tone. She looked out the window and watched as Hogsmeade came into view. Virginia climbed out of the carriage and looked around. Students were beginning to disperse to their own shopping directions. Virginia stood looking around. She could see The Three Broomsticks just down the street. She felt nauseated. A quick decision made her think against going to see Odessa. What would she say to her? It wouldn't be a happy. Virginia whipped around the return to one of the carriages and bumped directly into Draco. He had seemed to shake his friends, since he was all alone. Virginia's stomach butterflies seemed to increase in intensity as she looked at him. She always felt funny around him. They had spent a lot of time together, just talking. Virginia wasn't sure what to make of it. He hadn't tried to kiss her since the time outside two months earlier. "Hi Draco" Virginia said taking extra notice that he had gripped her shoulders as she bumped into him. Draco, much to Virginia's disappointment released her shoulders. "Virginia, where do you think you are going?" he asked raising an eyebrow questioningly. Virginia cursed herself for telling him about meeting Odessa. He of course would make her go. "Draco, I can't do it" Virginia pleaded looking quickly back to The Three Broomsticks. "I don't think I can see her now" Draco looked steadily down at the trembling girl. "No, Virginia, you must do this. Odessa needs someone too" he said softly. "I will go with you" Virginia didn't think that him being there would make much difference, but accepted his hand. "Okay". Draco and her walked towards the shop not slowing despite her obvious hesitation. Draco pushed open the door. Virginia scanned the room and let her eyes fall on a small woman sitting in an empty booth near the back. "There she is" she pointed. She pulled Draco towards Odessa. As they approached the woman looked up. Virginia was taken back by her appearance. Odessa's usually blond curls were now hanging limply in a darkened mass. Black shadows lay under her eyes and her usually smiling eyes seemed to be dull and motionless, except for the tiny tears that formed as she looked at Virginia. "Odessa" Virginia choked trying to sound happy. "Virginia" Odessa smiled gesturing for her to sit. Virginia didn't hesitate. She sat across from Odessa and Draco slid in beside Virginia. Virginia watched Odessa's eyes drift to Draco and raise an eyebrow. "A Malfoy? Virginia, you are more like Bill than I thought" Odessa said a smirk of appreciation on her face. She seemed greatly amused by this. Virginia flushed, she wasn't sure what she meant, but was extremely eager to know what Odessa wanted to talk to her for. "Odessa, why did you wait so long before contacting me" Virginia asked. She hadn't meant to, but her voice sounded hurt. Odessa smiled sadly, her eyes still looked watery with the permanent tears. "Virginia, I was suppose to meet Bill at the Burrow the day after it was destroyed. I arrived and-and it was a mess. I was so shocked and upset, my entire world had just fallen apart. I left before anyone saw me and have been hiding. I was so-so just -so" Odessa stopped. She seemed unable to continue for a second. "I'm sorry" Virginia breathed. She felt guilty. She hadn't thought about Odessa for more than a minute since the accident. Now here she sat and Virginia could see that she was emotionally beaten. "Don't be" Odessa said firmly. She reached her hand across the table to clasp Virginia's gently. Virginia looked down at hand covering hers. She gasped. A gold ring encrusted with bluish diamonds was on her finger. Odessa noticed this and smiled. "Did you ever know about Bill and I?" she asked removing her hand from Virginia's to twist the ring wistfully. "No" Virginia said her voice was barely audible. She felt Draco squeeze her other hand under the table, a sign of silent support. "I guess Bill never told you I am a Zardask" she said with a tiny smile. Virginia felt her stomach drop. "Odessa Zardask?" Draco said sounding quite shocked Odessa nodded and continued. "I was to become a Death Eaters wife, Voldemort was to choose my husband. I was of good breeding lines. The Zardask's are one of the oldest Pure Blood families on the dark side. I refused, I claimed I wanted to do some travelling before I devoted my life to someone else." Odessa sighed. She brushed a strand of blond hair from her face. A whimsical expression appeared on her face. "So they said I could go to Egypt, to visit my cousin. When I returned I was to marry a Death Eater. Well I went, and that is where I met Bill. I hated him at first, but eventually I fell under his charm. We fell in love, and he never seemed to care if I was a Zardask or not. He got me a job at the Wizarding Bank with him. I was skeptical. I was still hanging onto my rich upbringing. Working is not something Zardask's, or Malfoy's for that matter would ever do" Odessa smiled ironically. Draco shared her ironic smile at that moment. "But Bill never said anything about it" Virginia said quite awed by her. "We worked together, then I wrote home telling my family, and all the Death Eaters I wasn't going to return, I left out that I had fallen in love. They were angry, but no one ever came after me. I was just a girl after all. So I continued to stay with Bill and we traveled and saw most of the world together. He took me home to see your family and it was wonderful. I was accepted so easily. Especially by you Virginia. You were so sweet, only thirteen if I remember correctly. It was the first real family experience I have ever had. Well after that I knew that Bill and I were meant to be. He was my everything. Just before we headed to India he got down on one knee and gave me this" Odessa explained. She extended the ring for Virginia to look at again. The ring glinted even in the poor lighting of the café. "So you and Bill were engaged?" Virginia asked. She was so happy, but felt her insides twist as she remembered Bill and Odessa would never marry. "We were, and Bill planned to announce it to your parents when we went to visit. Well, just before Bill died we got more news." Odessa took a breath. She looked painfully at Virginia. A smile was on her face, but it seemed like such a sad smile. "I was pregnant" Virginia's eyes flew open. "What, but.." Everything she wanted to say died on her lips. Odessa nodded. "Yes, Bill couldn't have been happier. Well, we were out celebrating when I was spotted by a family friend. I knew that they would go back and report my where about to my parents, but for some reason I didn't care. I was in love. I was going to be married, I was going to be the mother, that my mother was never to me" Odessa's eyes seemed to spark up as she remembered this all. "Well, I had forgotten the issues that the Death Eaters had with the Weasley's. So when Bill went back to The Burrow, he was killed and. it is all my fault" Odessa said the last part her voice weak with the fight against emotions. Virginia was shocked. She reached her hand that was free from Draco and gripped Odessa's hand tightly. "My brother loved you. He wouldn't want you to blame yourself for something you had no control over" she said firmly looking directly into her watery green eyes. Odessa forced a weak smile. The suffering was haunting her eyes and Virginia knew it would take more than her words to heal the pain. "You know, Bill always said you and he were one in the same, even if you didn't realize it." "We were. I have always known that" Virginia smiled. She was happy to know her brother had felt the same. "Where are you staying?" she asked becoming serious. "I rented a little flat walking distance from Hogsmeade, just until I get settled." Odessa said with bitter laughter. "You know Bill always called me Princess to spite me, because I was the typical little rich girl. I was brought up living in expensive manors, eating extravagant meals and never lifting a finger. He taught me to live. I couldn't survive if I hadn't had him" Virginia smiled at this. She knew if anyone would be able to look past the names to see a person behind a mask it would have been Bill. "Can I come and visit you?" she asked hopefully. "I would like that very much" Odessa smiled. "and you too Mr. Malfoy." She said looking pointedly at Draco who had been silent through the entire conversation. He seemed to be deep in thought. "What about Seth? You know he tells me that he still wishes you would come back" Draco said softly. Virginia seemed confused. What was Draco talking about? Seth Zardask? Was Odessa related to him? "Seth? My brother?" Odessa said. Her eyes were wide with shock. Draco nodded mutely. He seemed to be angry with Odessa, but sympathetic for her at the same time. "When you left for Egypt no one was there to protect him. He was forced by his father into attending Death Eater meetings. I remember seeing him there. He was so scared. He needed you. He gets the same treatment now as the rest of us " Draco said. His voice was saying it all as simply as though he was explaining their Charms homework. "I had no choice." Odessa said guiltily. "I do want to see him again though. Can I meet with him?" she asked hopefully. She never took her eyes away from Draco's steady gaze. "I think he would like that" Draco said. Virginia watched as they exchanged a look that she didn't understand. She guessed it was because of their very similar upbringings. Suddenly a thought struck Virginia. "Odessa, how many months pregnant are you?" she asked. "three and a half months." She said. She placed her hand on her gently protruding stomach beneath the table. "Our child will be born next September" she said quietly. "That is wonderful" Virginia smiled, even though she knew that it was heart wrenching to think that the only piece of her brother aside from memories was quietly growing in Odessa. "Yes, Bill had so many plans for our child." Odessa said wistfully. She brushed an invisible tear from her cheek. " But I should be getting back to my house. Promise you will visit soon." "Of course" Virginia stated. "I guess we should be going to." They all stood and Virginia was able to see the gentle protrusion showing faintly from Odessa's robes. She embraced Odessa into a hug which she returned fully. "I will see you soon Odessa" Virginia reminded her softly. "I know" Odessa said. "Now off you go" Virginia nodded and headed to the door. Draco followed her out into the spring sunlight. Virginia took a deep shaky breath trying to exhale all the events that had just taken place. It seemed to much for her now. She was overjoyed that Odessa was okay, but being around her brought back painful memories of Bill. Draco came out and stood infront of her. He lifted her chin so her eyes moved from the ground up to look in his eyes. Virginia sighed. She loved looking in his eyes, but with every emotional thing that was happening in her life. Draco playing with the strings of her heart wasn't helping. "Aren't you glad you went now" Draco asked. A small smile was on his lips. "Yes, I am glad" Virginia nodded keeping her voice calm. "I have to leave now" she said tearing her eyes from his. She hated to do it, but she wasn't sure how much longer she could continue these little games with him. She couldn't forget the kiss they shared, but it was obvious he wasn't returning her feelings. She turned and walked away before Draco could object. Once she was far enough away she turned back to look at him. He had turned away from her and seemed to be cursing under his breath. Virginia felt a pain as she registered the hurt in his eyes. "It is all for the best" she whispered to herself before heading to where the carriages waited to return her to the school. **************************************************************************** Chapter 11 Why? **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia slipped out of potions class as quickly as possible. She knew that the next potions class was Draco's and she didn't want to run into him. She had been doing a good job in avoiding him for the last week and didn't want to even catch sight of him. Virginia scurried up the stairs and into the main hall. With a quick glance at her time table she saw that she was free from class for an hour break. Virginia smiled and went up to the common room. It was one place where she was guaranteed not to see Draco. "Snape Blows!" Virginia said proudly to the portrait. The Fat Lady grumbled still annoyed that Hermione, the prefect let Ron choose the password. She swung open and Virginia entered the common room. She saw Ron and Hermione in front of the fire sharing an intimate moment. Virginia had been dancing around telling Ron about who Odessa really was, since she returned. She decided not to disturb them and procrastinate on it even further. Virginia hurried up to her room, which unfortunately her roommates were already occupying. As usual they ignored Virginia, and Virginia ignored them. She sat on her bed and pulled out her notebook eager to begin writing. "So anyway I HAD to dump Colin. I mean, sugar quills as a present! For my SIXTEENTH birthday! PLEASE! I need a real boyfriend" Jora said rolling her eyes. Her friends murmured in agreement. "Well what about Draco, you two went to the dance together" Drusilla reminded her. Virginia froze and tried to inconspicuously listen to their conversation. "Yah! You two were really good together! He is such a hottie" Tavia giggled. Jora seemed to smile at that comment. "He is isn't he?" Jora said, a smirk appeared on her face. "I mean, I haven't really spoke to him since then. Maybe I should pay him a visit" Virginia tried to tell herself that she didn't care if Draco went out with Jora, ::Remember, you didn't care when she went with him to the Ball:: she tried convincing herself silently. ::You don't have to care now. Draco doesn't like you that way, and you don't like him that way:: she knew what she was saying to herself was the least bit convincing, but it was the only thing she knew of. "You know, I am going to go talk to him right now" Jora said confidently. "You two stay here" she commanded to Tavia and Drusilla. Jora shot a look at Virginia quickly and left the room. "She is so lucky. Could you just imagine kissing Draco Malfoy" Tavia said once she had left the room. Virginia trembled slightly but kept her head down, she could still sense the way his warm lips lingered on hers. It was painful to think about. "Oh Ginny" Drusilla said as though she had just noticed her in the room. "This came for you. Some owl was tapping at our window incessantly" she said throwing a letter over onto Virginia's bed. "Thank you" Virginia said. She turned the letter over and looked at the tiny seal. She broke it carefully and read the letter. Dear Virginia Draco is bringing Seth by to see me tomorrow afternoon. I would appreciate if you came as well. I want to have a long talk with him, and I might need a little support. So I really hope that you will come, PLEASE! Love Forever Odessa. Virginia put down the letter and sighed. She realized that to go, she would end up having to see Draco, and that was one of the last things she wanted to do. She quickly wrote a note back confirming that she would come to see her tomorrow. Virginia got up and headed to the Owlery to deliver it. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia stood infront of the Gryffindor common room fire. Her hand was clutched full of Floo Powder and she was looking nervously at the flame. Tossing it in, she stepped into the flame and said in a forced confident voice, "Odessa's Flat". Immediately everything around her went black with a whirl of colors whipping by. Virginia landed with a thud in a room. Standing she looked around and realized she must be in Odessa's living room. Virginia quickly stood an brushed the soot from her clothing. She could hear voices in the next room, a mellow voice was crooning a song. Virginia walked towards the voices and found herself in a kitchen. Odessa sat listening to a radio she had on the table. "Virginia you came" Odessa said standing suddenly. Virginia nodded and smiled as she noticed Odessa's obvious nervousness. "It is going to be fine Odessa" she said to sooth the older girls nerves. "I know, it is just that, he is my younger brother, and I betrayed him. I didn't know he was at Hogwarts either. I swore father would send him to Durmstrang." Odessa said flattening her blonde curls gently. "You know Bill and I planned to steal him away. He would come live with us in India, or where ever we decided to live. My child could grow up with him as an older brother" "That would have been wonderful" Virginia smiled. Though she disliked Seth, she had never quite gotten over him stealing her Shakespeare book, she still wanted him to be happy. There was a gentle knock at the door and Odessa got a terrified look on her face. "They are here" she hissed. "I'll get it" Virginia sighed. She walked over to the door and swung it open. The minute she did, she felt a strong urge to disappear. Seth was there, scowling angrily and behind him was Draco. Virginia looked at Draco, then away quickly. "Come in" she said walking away from the door. "What is she doing here" Seth hissed to Draco sounding quite annoyed. Draco just pushed him into the house. It was obvious that Seth had been forced into coming. Virginia went and sat at the kitchen table to watch the events infront of her. Seth entered the kitchen and the scowl melted from his face as he saw Odessa. "Dessa?" his voice choked with surprise. His dark eyes suddenly seemed to fill with light. "Hi Seth" Odessa said quietly. She walked over to him and fiercely embraced him into a hug. "God Seth, I missed you. I am so sorry. Please don't be angry with me" She whispered to him. Her voice shivered as she tried to keep composure. Seth pulled away from her suddenly. "I could never be angry with you Dessa" he said sounding shocked at the mere idea. He was shaking slightly and there were tears forming in his eyes. "They hurt me, I wanted you to save me, I knew you would" Seth whispered. He pulled back his sleeve to reveal is arm. Virginia gasped, even though she had seen Seth's arm before, she was still horrified by the mutilated arm. Most of the cuts had now reduced to scars though. "Oh Seth" Odessa said her voice filled with emotion. She turned to face Virginia. "I think Seth and I need to talk alone could you and Draco go for a walk or something. " she asked, her eyes silently begging with Virginia. Virginia looked reluctantly to Draco who stood emotionless. "Alright" Virginia sighed. She stood up and walked out of the kitchen. She felt Draco follow her outside. They walked in silence down the dirt path leading away from Odessa's house, until Draco broke the silence. "You have been avoiding me, why?" he said, his voice sounded guarded. Virginia took a breath. She didn't want to deal with this, but she knew she had too. "Are you surprised?" she said casting a sideways glance at him. "I can't see you Draco. I hate that you kissed me, I hate that I liked it, and I hate that all you ever did after the kiss was pretend it never happened, but what I hate the most, is how you don't like me. I don't like being played with Draco." Virginia said getting everything she had to say. She let her tone drop at the end. Draco didn't say anything. He seemed to be thinking. There was an uncomfortable silence when suddenly Draco stopped abruptly in his stride. Virginia walked a step ahead and turned so she was looking directly up at him. "Your right Virginia, I can't see you. I am not playing with you though. I just can't" he said finishing firmly as though it was suppose to answer all questions and chase away all worries. "That doesn't help Draco, why? Can't you just grant me the answer to that" Virginia said. She could feel the emotions swelling up. She was unsure of what to do with them She wasn't use to all the feelings. "Why?" Draco said almost laughing. He obviously thought the answer was clear. "This is why Virginia" he said fiercely. With out warning he suddenly pressed his lips to hers. Virginia was greeted with a kiss nothing like the one they had shared earlier. This kiss was filled with intensity and passion. She felt as Draco's tongue parted her lips and greedily entered her mouth. She suddenly felt as though his every emotion was being poured through her lips. She moaned slightly with the ecstasy that he supplied her with. His strong arms wrapped around her waist to support her as he deepened the kiss. Virginia was feeling light headed as Draco suddenly pulled away. Her heart pounded as she looked up into his saddened silver eyes. "It can't to be like that. I can't like someone that much" he said quietly catching his breath. He released his grip on her and stepped back. Virginia wasn't sure how to react. This wasn't how the conversation was suppose to be going. She suddenly was furious with him. "You can't just kiss me like that then walk away Draco!" she said her voice quivering with rage. "That isn't the way it works." "That is why I thought we could be friends, that is why after kissing you I never brought it up. I wanted to be around you. You don't know how hard it is" Draco said almost harshly. He sounded angry, like how he used to talk to her. "Draco that still doesn't answer my question." Virginia said faltering slightly at his eyes fixed on her. They were suddenly the same cold eyes she remembered, the same eyes that used to make her shiver with disgust. "Why? Well because of who you are, and who I am. I will hurt you Virginia." Draco said backing away further. "Do you know what I am?" Virginia was confused. Draco pulled his arm back to reveal a scar, but not just any scar. A Dark Mark. Virginia gasped at the ugly mutilation burned into his flesh. "Oh Draco" she said her voice was barely distinguishable. Virginia tentatively touched the scar and felt as Draco flinched beneath her touch. "You were right that night on the balcony." Draco said ignoring the soft fingers that touched his flesh. "I am a killer" Virginia tightened her grip on his arm. "No your not" Virginia said with impenetrable conviction. She looked into Draco's eyes which were unreadable. "No, your not." She repeated softer. "I know you Draco, I know when I kiss you, when I touch you" she smirked slightly. "When you say my name". Draco smiled at this comment, but quickly when back to his cold look. "Virginia, we can't do this" he said sounding more unsure then he did before. "Look at Odessa, she loved a Weasley and now he is dead. I-I couldn't live with my self if anything hurt you" "Draco, you are hurting me now" Virginia said pleading with him softly. Her brown eyes were beginning to fill with tears. "It is my choice what I do with my life. But it isn't my choice who I fall in love with" Virginia let the last comment out before she could stop herself. Draco cold looked flickered, his eyes melted the cold and Virginia was able to read the pain in his eyes. "Why do you do this to me" Draco said accusingly. Virginia knew at that moment that she had won. "Because I can" Virginia said letting a smile contrast against her watery eyes. The tears began to trail down her pale cheeks. Draco brought his hand up to cup her chin and let his mouth brush against hers. "I never will hurt you" he breathed softy moving his lips to brush her cheeks. Virginia shut her eyes as she felt him gently kiss the salty tears from her cheeks. "God, you guys get left for one minute and you have to suck face!" a voice broke their trance. Both Draco and Virginia jumped. They looked to see Seth standing behind them wearing a revolted look. "Odessa wants you to come back now." Seth said simply before walking off grumbling something about the sickening displays that he didn't want to see. "What does this mean now Draco?" Virginia asked after sharing a small smile over Seth. Draco gave her an amused smile. "Who ever told you I had all the answers" he said slipping his arm around her waist. "It means that we will have to wait and see what happens now." He watched as Virginia's eyes hit the ground with disappointment. Draco lifted her chin to look at him again. "At least we don't have to wait alone" **************************************************************************** Chapter 12 Confessions **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia sat eating in the Great Hall trying to listen to Colin, who had engaged her in a conversation. Virginia wasn't interested, but pretended to pay attention by nodding and murmuring in all the right places. She wasn't even quite sure what they were discussing. Virginia couldn't help herself. She peaked over to the Slytherin table to look at Draco. She spotted him beside Pansy, who was trying to talk to him. Draco wasn't even pretending to try and listen. He was flat out ignoring her. Virginia smiled to herself knowing that Draco had no interest in Pansy. She found it a bit unsettling at she noticed that Pansy's hand was on his arm and she seemed to be giggling. "Ginny! Are you listening?" Colin said finally noticing that she had turned away from him. "Um, yah. Go on" Virginia said snapping back to face him. "Well, Dumbledore said that we will have a dance next month, just for the end of school, but not too close to exams. We have our OWLS this year and all" Colin continued. Virginia nodded. She had forgotten that she had those pesky exam's. "Yah, I guess that would be fun" Virginia grinned. She pictured the idea of dancing with Draco again. But the idea of OWLS made her drop her smile almost immediately. "The only thing I can guarantee some OWLS in is Potions. I had a tutor earlier. It really helped my mark" "Really" Colin said sparking interest. Virginia tried not to notice as he moved closer to her. "Maybe you could tutor .me" he said slowly and hopefully. Virginia felt a shiver as she realized that he was hitting on her. Virginia prayed that Draco wasn't watching. "Um maybe" she said trying to sound vague and uninterested. "Well we could also go to the Dan." Colin began. Virginia looked down the table slightly. She saw Ron looking surprised at Colin. Virginia realized this wasn't part of Ron's plans. He was obviously happy about it though. She didn't let Colin finish. "I have to go get a.." She paused trying to find an appropriate excuse to leave. She looked over to Draco's table and saw he had looked up at her. Virginia didn't even bother to finish. She exited the Great Hall. Virginia found her way to Dreya's portrait. "Hey Virginia" Dreya said enthusiastically. "I can't really talk long. Dumbledore put a new painting up in his office. I was going to go introduce myself" she explained. "Okay, I will just go out on the Balcony." She explained. Dreya nodded. "Dreya!" Virginia said. The portrait swung open and Virginia exited into the open air. Virginia didn't have to wait long before she heard the portrait swing open again. "Your late" She looked smiling to Draco, who had just entered. He had obviously gone to his dorm before coming out, because he had on his over cloak and scarf. In his hand was a large book. Virginia let her smile drop when she noticed he didn't look happy. "Draco? What's wrong" Virginia said moving closer. She touched him and momentarily it looked like he was going to forget what had made him angry. "What is going on between you and Colin" he demanded his voice stern. "I saw you two talking." He accused. Virginia felt immediate relief. She was glad it wasn't anything important. Placing her hands on his shoulders she looked him in the eyes. "Why Draco, are you by chance jealous?" she asked in a teasing voice. "No" Draco mumbled. Virginia could see that he (obviously) was. "Well, then I suppose it won't matter to you that Colin invited me to the next dance" Virginia said twisting a smile. "Of course it would!" Draco sputtered. Then he looked down at her teasing eyes and stopped. "You are really mean you know that" he said realizing she was teasing him. "I am, and you are stuck with me" she said leaning up and lightly brushing his lips with hers. Draco tried to return the kiss, but Virginia pulled away from him. "What is that?" she pointed to the book in his hand. "Seth said that you might want this" he said holding it out. Virginia looked down at the book he held in his hand. She immediately recognized it as her Shakespeare book. "Oh!!" Virginia smiled grabbing it quickly and hugging it closely. "Um.. your making me jealous again" Draco said looking amused by her outburst. Virginia smiled and rewarded him with a quick kiss. Draco satisfied sat down on a blanket, that they had left out their from past star gazing nights. "So what is the significance of the book?" he asked as Virginia sat down beside him. Virginia's entire face lit up. "He is one of my favorites." She smiled suddenly completely interested in something. She began to talk none stop about everything that he had written and what was her favorites. "and the best sonnet he ever did was his one about.." She let herself trail off. Draco was staring intently at her. He had barely blinked in the last ten minutes she had been speaking for. "Draco are you listening?" she asked tentatively. "No" Draco said simply. "But you don't know how long I could watch you talk about something you love" he smiled. Virginia flushed. She wasn't sure what still made her do that, but she always felt like she might just wake up, and Draco would disappear. She would be alone again. "Draco, when did you decide you liked me?" she asked frowning slightly. She had never drawn a point when she had first liked him. It had been gradual. She had started, she knew when he had asked her to dance back in November. Draco smiled. "When I first saw you in Diagon Alley before school started this year. You were coming out of a book store. At first I just wanted to be typical and make fun of you, then you said my name after I insulted you. " He smirked slightly. His eyes looked far away as though he was reliving the moment in his mind. "It sent shivers down my spine. No one ever said my name, at least not like that. After that I tried to deny it, but I found myself doing things that I don't usually do. Like volunteering to tutor fifth years in Potions" he joked causing Virginia to smile. "But what really got me, was your eyes. The way they were always unreadable. You always seemed so calm and it frustrated me. I knew that my eyes had the ability to do that too. and I didn't think it was right for someone like you to need to stay so emotionally unattached. I knew that I had to make those eyes reveal something. But, if I did, I knew I could never find my way out of them" he said focusing his eyes back on her. Virginia looked at his perfect features. He now had his stormy eyes on her and was searching her eyes. Virginia leaned forward and kissed his mouth soundly. She wanted to show him how much he meant to her. She felt Draco's arms surround her. She squeaked slightly as he moved her into his lap cradling her head with his arm as he returned the kiss. He pulled away and began to trail kisses along her neck and throat. His hands running through his red curls. Virginia shut her eyes and touched his face gently causing him to bring his lips back to meet hers. She shifted to better accommodate and kissed him hungrily. Suddenly Draco pulled away. "We have to stop" he said slightly out of breath. His hair tousled slightly. Virginia was disappointed but accepted it. They sat in silence, Draco hugged her to his chest not moving her from his lap. They looked out at the stars that stood frozen in the sky. "Virginia read to me" he whispered in her ear. Virginia gently pulled out her book and leaned back against him again. She felt his head rest on her shoulder and his arms encompass her waist. She began to read a play and listened to his gentle breath and his lips that seemed to unintentionally be rested on her neck. "My only love sprung from my only hate; Too early unknown, and known too late;" Virginia said. Her voice was becoming gradually quieter as the story continued. She paused and didn't here a sound from Draco. Looking behind her she saw that his eyes were shut peacefully, a serene look was on his face. Virginia removed herself from his arms careful not to wake him. Virginia kneeled infront of his tranquil form. She couldn't resist but to brush a strand of blond hair from his face. Biting her lip guiltily she softly removed his green and white Slytherin scarf. Virginia surrendered to her urge and wrapped it around her neck lightly inhaling his familiar and comforting scent. "Virginia, I keep learning new things about you. Stealing? Hmm that is new." she heard Draco say. Startled she looked down at him. His eyes were still closed but a small smirk was on his face. He opened his eyes. "Keep it" Virginia blushed at being caught, but liked the result. "I have to go Draco. It is nearly eleven o clock. I might be missed' she said knowing it wasn't true. No one except Ron ever seemed to notice that she was gone. "Then until tomorrow night my seraph *" he said his eyes twinkling. Virginia smiled and exited the balcony leaving Draco alone. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia hurried back to her common room. At the portrait the Fat Lady was looking like she was ready to go to sleep. "Again child! This is the fifth night you have been coming in at this hour" the Fat Lady said looking quite angry. "Perso Angeles" Virginia said with a smile. She loved that password, she had suggested it to Hermione who was trying to tell Ron that Snape waves Purple Flags, couldn't be the password. It meant Lost Angel. The fat lady sighed and opened the frame. Virginia scurried through into the common room. "GINNY!" Ron said standing up. Virginia froze as she saw that Ron, Hermione and Harry were all waiting for her. "Ginny where have you been!" he exclaimed. "Mom and dad, Mom and Dad came out of hiding" he said sounding excited. Virginia felt a load lift off of her. Mom? It had felt like she had lost them to. Virginia realized she had been treating them as though they had died. "When do we see them?" Virginia asked suddenly desperate to see her parents. "Mom wants us to come home tomorrow. Dumbledore has already approved that we are allowed to miss the school. Everyone is coming back" Ron said his eyes bright with tears and obvious happiness. "I will go pack now" Virginia said heading towards her dorm. "WAIT" a sharp voice said behind her. Virginia turned and looked back and looked at Ron who was now glaring. "Ginny" he said sounding almost too calm. "Where did that scarf come from?" Virginia looked down at Draco's scarf which hung around her neck loosely. "Um." Virginia searched for a vague answer while cursing herself for the inability to lie. "That is a Slytherin scarf" Hermione exclaimed. Harry, Ron and Hermione in unison all trailed down to the end of the scarf and gasped. Virginia looked down and saw what they were looking at. On the edge of the scarf in conflicting black thread was embroidered in scrawling italics DM. "DRACO MALFOY" Ron exclaimed advancing on Virginia angrily. He snatched the scarf from her neck. Virginia suddenly felt exposed and vulnerable. "Explain now!" Virginia scuffed her feet nervously. "Draco and I, I have been seeing him." she paused looking at the horrified look on Ron's face. "He has been well perfect. He listens and talks, he makes me laugh and is always there for me" she said not quite sure how that would explain the scarf. "Ginny! God how could you" Hermione said surprising Virginia. She would have put money on Hermione being the most understanding, but apparently not. "Malfoy! That ferret!" she shrieked looking disgusted. Virginia flushed but felt angry. "He is just using you Ginny! You are in a delicate place right now" Ron said his face becoming red as he began to wave the scarf to elaborate his ranting. "What about Colin? How could you do this to him?" Who were they to pass judgement on him. Or on her for that matter. They didn't know anything about their relationship, but they were willing to jump to the worst possible conclusions. She felt a vivid memory of him whispering softly to her. " I had to make those eyes reveal something. But, if I did, I knew I could never find my way out of them ". She knew that he was someone that they didn't know. She looked to Harry expecting his out burst to be the worst considering his history with Draco. "Did you have something to add?" she asked him upset that her brother and his girlfriend would be so condescending towards her. "I am glad that you are able to see the good in people that we are unable to." Harry said a small smile on his face. Virginia felt her eyes fly open in surprise. "You Ginny are even more amazing than I previously thought." he said before turning away from Ron and Hermione and walking up the stairs to the Boys Dorms. "Go to bed Ginny" Ron grumbled not sure what else he could say to her. Virginia nodded eager to comply. She hurried up the girls dorms hoping that sleep could wash away some of the damage. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke to Harry shaking her awake. "Ginny, Ginny you have to get up now. You have to leave for home" Harry said softly. Virginia opened her eyes and looked at Harry. She remembered if this had happened back in her third year she would have fainted away from pleasure. "Okay" she grumbled not happy with the early rising. Harry seemed satisfied and he left the room. Virginia got up and changed into a pair of plain robes. She threw a few things in her bag and hurried down to the common room. Ron and Hermione were standing at the fire, obviously saying a tearful goodbye. She saw Ron softly kiss her lips as he hugged her close. "I'll miss you" Ron said gently. Virginia was always surprised at the change in her brother when he was with Hermione. Ron pulled away as he spotted Virginia behind them. "Hello" Ron said calmly. "We have to go now Virginia" Virginia felt sick as he called her Virginia. It was a sign that he hadn't forgiven her and was still angry. Ron threw his powder into the fire and stepped in. "THE BURROW" he said in a loud concise voice. He disappeared and Virginia looked at Hermione. "Well go!" Hermione said still sounding mildly annoyed by her. Virginia didn't want to be told twice. She stepped into the fire and softly called "THE BURROW" quite afraid of what she would find there. **************************************************************************** Chapter 13 Nothing Closer than Family **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia felt herself sucked up into the floo network. She hated travelling that way, but it was the fastest. Suddenly the ground rushed to meet her. Letting her eyes adjust to the new sight she saw Ron looking in shock ahead of him. "What is it Ron.." Virginia said letting her voice trail off. Standing infront of them was The Burrow. It looked identical to how it looked when they left. "I thought, I thought it got blown up" Ron said looking in awe. Suddenly from the house Virginia saw her mother run forth. "Ron! Ginny" she said tears were flowing freely down her cheeks. She ran forth and embraced her two children with such force that Virginia winced in pain. "Oh god, I missed you. I love you, you know that? What took you so long to get here? Are you hungry? I love you so much!" she rambled sobbing into Ron's hair. Finally she released the two who were now quite rumpled. "Hi Mom" Virginia said feeling choked up at the outburst and the image of her mother in front of her. Molly Weasley looked thinner, and dark circles under her eyes spoke about the sleepless nights she spent up crying over her lost son. Molly smiled weakly and led them into the house. "I thought The Burrow was gone" Ron said as he stepped through the front door. Virginia and he both gasped when they entered. The house looked the same from the outside, but upon entering it was obvious that it was all different. All the worn furniture and tattered books that use to be in the living room was now gone. Instead the room was hardwood floors, matching couches and brand new books. "The Ministry of Magic had your father under accident insurance. The house was rebuilt and everything was replaced" Molly explained. "Would it be all right if I went to my room" Virginia asked suddenly feeling over whelmed. Her mother nodded sadly and thankfully Virginia hurried up the now squeak free hard wood stairs to the third floor. She pushed open her door and saw that her room was the same as downstairs. Everything was where it should be, but it was all new. Virginia flopped down on her bedspread and sighed. It was wonderful to be home. She shut her eyes and tried to remember what it had been like the last time she was in her room. It seemed like so long ago. She didn't have long to ponder before her door was pushed open. "Hey Ginny" a quiet voice said. Virginia didn't bother to turn. She recognized the voice immediately as Percy's. "Mom said you would be up here. I just wanted to say hi" "Hi" Virginia said wishing he would leave. Last time she had seen Percy, he had broke the news about Bill's death. She remembered how horrific he had looked. It had disturbed her, especially since Percy was usually so pristine. She her bed shift slightly as Percy sat down. Virginia turned to face him and was relieved to see that he no longer looked so battered. He was back to looking like an over confident business associate. "It had been awhile" Percy said softly. Virginia nodded. She wasn't sure what she was going to say to him. It seemed as though the entire house was crying. Crying for Bill. "I just wanted to tell you, that Bill, he was buried in the cemetery. There wasn't a memorial because mom knew how much Bill hated those" Percy explained. He seemed to be speaking concise so that he didn't have to display any emotion. "Okay" Virginia sighed, she had no plans to go see his grave, but wanted humor Percy. "Good" Percy smiled now that he had come to his point. "The twins are arriving shortly. Then we will talk". Virginia nodded and Percy left the room quietly shutting the door. Virginia lay back down on her bed and let her eyes shut. It hadn't been long since she had gotten up, but this was just too much. Sleep would be a nice substitute for the stifling tone of mourning that hung in the air. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke as she heard what could only be the uproar of the twins arrival. She kicked off her blankets to head downstairs. As she hit the main floor she looking around. Her mother and father were hugging and kissing the twins, Ron and Charlie were talking on one of the new couches and Percy seemed to be examining the new bookshelf. Eventually Arthur Weasley managed to pry his wife sobbing away from her twin sons. "Maybe we should all sit" Virginia's father suggested. Virginia nodded and sat down next to Ron. Percy leaned on the arm of the couch beside Virginia. George and Fred stood by Charlie and all of their eyes were directed to their two parents who were sitting together in an over stuffed arm chair. "Well, it's been awhile" Arthur joked nervously looking at his children. "I suppose we should talk about what happened" he seemed hesitant and really not very eager to have this conversation with them. "NO!" Charlie suddenly said sounding horrified at the idea. "Bill wouldn't have wanted us to. He isn't like that. He would want us to sit here and talk about all the good times." "Exactly, he is rolling over in his grave right now" George piped up. Virginia was horrified at the comment, but was even more revolted at the fact that she had to stifle a laugh that tried to emerge. She shouldn't be laughing right? "Do you remember the time that he managed to break the lock on Dad's muggle workshop and tried to sell the enchanted items at a muggle garage sale?" Charlie chuckled remembering a moment. "That is when we found out how good he was at breaking codes" Arthur nodded a smile on his face as he recalled the event. "And you were waist deep in work for months trying to locate all the objects" Fred said relaxing slightly. "He was the original prankster of us all." "What about when he found out he was head boy. He almost refused to accept the position. He thought it would get in the way of his gags." Ron recalled a mellow smile appearing on his face. "The Christmas Party when he was ten" Molly suddenly exclaimed getting into to recollection session. "He added salt to all my cookies so when I served them everyone was lying through their teeth about how they tasted. I had him de-gnome the yard for weeks after that." Molly suddenly burst into laughter as she remembered it. "I was telling everyone the cookie recipe had been in my family generations." "Do you remember the time he Toilet Papered the whole Slytherin Common Room" Fred exclaimed his face excited by the memory. "It was George and my first year. He taught us how to follow in his footsteps by recruiting us to help" "Yah, he cracked the password into all the common rooms" Charlie nodded. "He had that school on its toes at every turn". Everyone laughed at how Bill managed to corrupt the twins. "I remember when I was eight" Virginia began her eyes misty with tears. "He dyed my hair purple, because I told him I wanted to run away from home. He said that they would catch me and know I was a Weasley if I had red hair." She laughed. Of course I didn't go very far, and I came back. Bill dyed his hair purple to match me" "I remember that" Percy nodded. "I was so angry that he dyed your hair. Mom was too if I recall." "Of course I was! You had such nice red curls and he turned them PURPLE" Molly said trying to keep back the laughter that clogged her throat. "He and you had matching hair for a month!" "Well, that one time when he had everyone in Gryffindor.." Charlie began. He was interrupted suddenly by a knock on the door. "I'll get that" Arthur said suddenly wiping the smile from his face. He stood up and walked out of the room. Virginia listened as the door opened. Ron and Percy had begun to regale another famous Bill moment, but their words died on their lips as Arthur walked into the room followed closely by a petit blond girl. Virginia stood. She recognized her immediately as Odessa. "ODESSA!" Charlie suddenly said. He rushed over and embraced the girl into a hug. "Um, Charlie? Do you care to explain? I thought we made it clear that this was a family event only." Molly said her lips becoming tight. Virginia realized that her mother presumed that this was one of Charlie's girlfriends. "That is why I invited her." Charlie said calmly breaking away from Odessa. "This is Odessa Zardask" he said causing Odessa to flush with embarrassment. "You have met her before. She was at Percy's wedding." "A Zardask?" Arthur said trying to keep his voice calm. Virginia could see a flame in her fathers eye. Something she had never seen from him before. "Charlie? Explain this now" he said fiercely. Virginia watched as Odessa cowered slightly. Virginia frowned and went up to stand by Odessa. She slipped her hand into Odessa's. Odessa shot her a look of appreciation. "She was Bill's fiancée" Charlie said eyeing his parents challengingly. Suddenly the room seemed even more silent than before. Charlie moved to continue but Odessa put a hand gently on her shoulder. "I don't expect you to welcome me" Odessa said sounding quite terrified. "I just wanted to let your family know that I loved Bill, as he did me. I am only here to pay my respects, I will leave now" She hung her head as she finished. "Like Hell you are!" Molly said suddenly standing. "Pay your respects!!" she seemed quite angry. Virginia tightened her grip on Odessa's hand. "Welcome you!" she scoffed. She moved close to Odessa until she was directly in front of her. Molly suddenly burst into tears and wrapped her arms around Odessa. "We will always welcome you. You are family. You need not to pay respects. You need to be respected." she said fiercely releasing a now quite shocked Odessa. "You and Bill were going to marry?" Ron asked his jaw gone quite slack. "Bill was going to MARRY?!" he exclaimed. Virginia led Odessa to sit down while Charlie explained the finer details. "I met her while I was doing some work in India. They told me that they were engaged, and when I heard that we were all coming home to be a family, I naturally knew that Odessa belonged here." He said sitting on the other side of her. Virginia was suddenly very happy with her eldest brother. She hadn't even thought to invite Odessa. "So, tell us about your time with Bill" Molly said settling back beside Arthur on the chair. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke, she was sad that she had to return to school that day. It had been nice being home. Surprisingly there had been very little times where they had cried, it had been a healing experience. Being closer to her family had made her seem closer to Bill. Virginia got out of bed slowly and changed into a black robe. She hurried down to the second floor and knocked quietly on Bill's bedroom door, that was where Odessa was staying. There was no response. Virginia gently opened the door and entered. She saw that Bill's room had not been touched, except for his bed which looked as though it had been slept in. Odessa was missing from the bed and Virginia sighed. She had her suspicions of where Odessa went. Virginia hurried up a large grassy hill. A large oak was at the top along with a black fenced in cemetery. Weasley's dating back in history were all buried in that family cemetery. Virginia knew that Odessa must have gone to pay her respects. As she drew closer she slowed to a walk. She could see the black cloak of Odessa as she kneeled infront of a tombstone. Virginia approached and was about to speak out when she heard Odessa speak first. "It has been hard Bill, without you I am going to have to raise our child alone." she was speaking almost angrily to the grave. "But your family. You were right Bill. They accept me. I have a family now. Everything is going to be okay now. I am going to live Bill. Your princess is finally living." She finished her voice a strained whisper. Virginia saw her lean in and gently kiss the cold headstone. "Good bye Bill" she said tearfully. Virginia wanted to turn and leave, but found no where to go. Odessa got up from the ground and turned to face Virginia, she didn't look at all surprised to see her. "You know, he was the only one in my family who understood me" Virginia said trying not to seem sad. "Have you given you family a chance to understand you?" Odessa asked approached Virginia. She wrapped an arm around her shoulder. Virginia froze. Had she given them a chance? "I guess not" Virginia sighed as they descended to the house. "Well, I am sure Bill would want you to" Odessa said pulling the girl closer. Virginia noticed that her stomach was becoming more visible beneath her clothing. "Odessa? What is happening with you now?" "Your parents are letting me stay here. You mom refuses to let me and my unborn child to live alone" Odessa was beaming as she said this. "I thought they would blame me for Bill's death" she admitted. "It wasn't your fault and you know that" Virginia sighed. They entered the house. "I came to say goodbye though. Ron and I are returning to school." Odessa and her exchanged good byes and Virginia retrieved her things and met Ron by the fireplace. She had forgotten about what had happened when they had left Hogwarts, but it all came back to her since Ron was holding out Draco's scarf. His eyes were dark and unreadable. When Virginia reached for the scarf, Ron pulled it back. "I don't approve of you seeing" he paused looking like he was choking on the words. "Draco.... but I can see an obvious difference in you. I just sometimes don't have my priorities straight. It is supposed to be what makes my sister happy rather than who makes me mad" Ron sighed extending the scarf again. "Besides, I don't want Malfoy's slimy scarf anyway." Virginia smiled as she took the scarf from him. This was what Odessa was talking about. Giving her family a chance to understand her. "Thank you Ron" Virginia said. She took the scarf and pulled her tall brother into a firm hug. "It means a lot to me" she smiled. "I know" Ron smiled. He threw his Floo Powder into the fire and stepped into the flame. "Gryffindor Common Room!" he said and was whipped away. Virginia took one last look around The Burrow, it was comforting to know that she had a home to go to again. **************************************************************************** Chapter 14 Pink Dress **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia shivered as the cold air whipped by her. "I thought this was spring" she said annoyed at the cold weather. She was sitting in the Gryffindor stands with Ron and Harry. Slytherin was playing Gryffindor and they were trying to study their opponents. Virginia hadn't spoken Draco yet, since she had just gotten home the night before. She wasn't looking forward to it either. She hadn't told him that she left. "Then why didn't you bring your precious scarf" Ron mocked getting tired of her none stop complaining. "I did" Virginia said giving him a smug look and holding out the green and white scarf that was round her neck. Harry burst into laughter as Ron turned an angry shade of red but managed not to say anything. Virginia turned back to look at the pitch. She saw Draco idly flying about the game, his eyes trying to catch sight of the golden snitch. Virginia saw Cho, who was in her seventh year and captain looking very frustrated. She obviously wanted to win, since she wouldn't have another chance to beat Slytherin. Virginia watched as Draco lazily moved towards the Ravenclaw posts, swerving out of the way of a bludger as he went. Suddenly without warning he changed directions and went straight up and towards the Slytherin end. Cho noticed his action and followed. She was too late though, Draco's hands clasped around the struggling gold ball in a matter of seconds. The Slytherin side erupted into cheers while the rest of everyone sighed at the let down. Virginia stood and cheered for Draco even though Ron and Harry were glaring angrily at her. "Well, I am going back to the common room before I get sick from seeing my sister with her new boyfriend" Ron announced. He and Harry stood and left the stands, while Virginia descended them. By the time she had gotten down to the pitch both teams had gone to the change rooms to shower. Virginia sighed and sat down directly in the middle of the pitch. She lay down on her back and began to examine the stars that had come out. Lifting her finger she traced the constellations out with her fingers quietly saying their names as she went. The grass felt soft beneath her and the air felt much warmer down on the pitch, than it did when she had been up in the stands. "Did you find Draco yet?" a voice called above her. Virginia tilted her head to see Draco standing behind her head. "It was the first one I looked for" Virginia said pointing up to the design of stars known as Draco. "Good game" she pulled herself off the ground and dusted her robes off. "You didn't tell me that you left." Draco said sounding only mildly miffed. "Potter eventually told me where you had gone." He explained. Her reached forward and grabbed either side of her scarf and pulled her into his chest. "Are you telling me that you and Harry had a civil conversation" Virginia asked standing up so her lips were precariously close to his. "No, I am just saying were able to exchange information between insults" Draco smirked. "Though I was surprised to hear, that he, Granger and your brother all know" he said letting his mouth come even closer to hers. "Well, your scarf was a give away" Virginia said moving herself just far enough away. "Tease" Draco quipped realizing that she was just letting his get so close. Virginia smiled. She brought her hand up and ran in through his silvery blond strands. When she got to the back of his head she pulled him forward so her lips connected with his. The familiar tingly feeling over took her. "Your too good to be true" Draco smiled against her lips. Virginia in response deepened the kiss. Suddenly Draco broke the kiss with a sharp surprise. He pulled away from Virginia. His eyes were suddenly darting around. "Draco what's wrong?" she asked not quite sure what to think of his obvious reaction. Immediately Virginia was rushed with the fear of loosing him against. She tried to touch him to reassure him that she was still there, but Draco jumped back at her touch. Virginia saw that his hand was clutching his forearm as though it had been injured. Virginia understood and felt her stomach sink. It was the Dark Mark, Voldemort. "I, I have to go" Draco said. He didn't wait to hear Virginia react. He turned and hurried off the pitch letting his arm fall, but Virginia could see his hands balled into fists with the searing pain. "Virginia Weasley, I think you might be in too deep" Virginia murmured to herself before heading off towards the castle, most likely to cry herself to sleep. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia sat at the Great Hall eating her food and trying to study for her OWLS. It was difficult since Hermione still wasn't talking to her, she was always the best with tests. She was struggling her way through History of Magic study guide when she finally decided to give it up. Virginia tried to seem as casual as possible as she turned to the Slytherin table. Her eyes flicked from student to student, the only one missing in attendance was Draco. Virginia hadn't seen him since the night on the pitch three days earlier. "He still isn't back" Harry said causing Virginia to jump. She turned back and saw both Ron and Harry were looking at her with pity. Virginia shrugged trying to brush it off as not really that important, but truly it was killing her. "That slimy git! I knew he would do something like this!" Ron said his face getting flushed with anger. "Well obviously!" Hermione jumped in. "Draco Malfoy is a vulgar person. Ginny, you deserve so much more than someone like him. What could you possibly see in him. He is just so. " she was gradually getting louder as she continued her rant, but Virginia had strategically tuned her out. She knew perfectly where Draco was. He had written her yesterday. He was in the company of his father and Voldemort. Virginia wasn't sure how she was managing to stay so calm, he refused to tell her what was going on, or when he would be back. She wasn't allowed to send him anything. It was too risky since his father might find it. "Go back to the common room Ginny, this isn't going to improve" she heard Harry say while Ron was trying to make Hermione settle down. Virginia stood and hurried out of the Great Hall. She tried to ignore all the eyes that were watching either her or Hermione. Virginia to out of the Great Hall only to run directly into Jora, Tavia and Drusilla. Virginia tried to walk by them, but she felt Jora's hand grasp her shoulder suddenly. "You are a conniving bitch" Jora said turning Virginia harshly to face her. "Do you think I would let you get away with stealing my boyfriend" she asked her voice a shrilled hiss. She brought her face dangerously close to Virginia's. "You are lower than dirt. It you think that Draco will be by you forever think again" Tavia chimed in. Her glare equaling Jora's. "That is right Ginny" Jora sneered. "You may think that you got the better deal, but I know what Draco is. And I think that you do too" she said. Her face twisted into a sneer. Her voice turned to a low growl as she continued. "He is going to hurt you. Then he is going to come to someone who can handle it." She smirked. "And I will be waiting." Virginia jerked herself away from her grasp. "I'll keep that in mind" she said trying to retain control and not just slap Jora right then and there. "HEY!" a voice suddenly called from behind them. "Why don't you heinous sluts get your hands off of my - my sister in law!". Both Jora and Virginia turned to see Seth standing his eyes dark and glaring. "What are you talking about" Jora said her voice sounding more unsure of herself. She knew very well that Draco acted like a big brother to Seth and didn't want to upset him. "Well, just what I said" Seth said walking up to Virginia. He took her hand tightly and walked away from the her three room mates. Once they were far enough away Virginia stopped. " Thanks Seth" she smiled releasing her hand from his grip. "Are you my sister in law?" Seth asked not quite sure. He was looking so hopefully up at her that Virginia couldn't tell him no. "Seth, we are more than that. We are family, starting now, ending never" Virginia smiled before hugging the small boy. "Now I have to return to my dorm so I will see you later okay?" "Okay" Seth nodded. He wiped at his eyes determined for Virginia not to see the small tears that had gathered there. Virginia smiled and walked up to the picture of the Fat Lady. "Hermione and Ron forever" she said with a slight groan. She couldn't wait until next year when there would be new passwords from someone other than Hermione the prefect. The Fat Lady nodded and let her enter the room. There was just about no one present in the room, except for Colin Creevey. "Hey Ginny" he said smiling brightly. Virginia forced a small smile and wished that she could disappear. "I am sorry about you and Draco" he said not sounding very sorry at all. "Why what happened between us that I don't know about?" Virginia sighed. She hated that now everyone knew about her relationship thanks to Hermione's ranting and ravings since she found out. "Oh, come on Ginny. Everyone knows he is a Death Eater, the reason your brother doesn't get more angry is because he presumes that you will out grow it." Colin stated as though it was obvious information. "Well, everyone knows that he had gone to go work with his father and - well you -know-who. I just thought you would have broken up with him" "Well I haven't" Virginia said trying to maintain her anger. Both and Colin and now with Draco. She didn't wait for Colin to continue. Virginia hurried up the stairs and burst into her empty room. The dance was tomorrow, and she hadn't been sure if she was going to go. Now she knew she was. Something made her feel stubborn and she knew that Draco would probably be hurt if she was to dance with a few guys. She was busy planning her ways to spite Draco for doing this to her when she suddenly spotted a package on her bed. It was a light blue with silver ribbon keeping it secure. Hesitantly Virginia removed the ribbon and removed the tissue paper from within. Inside the soft folds lay a dress. It was soft pink with little rosebuds along the neckline. A small note was printed in tiny lettering. My sweet Ginny This is for tomorrow night. Please forgive my absence thus far. I shall make it up to you then. Love Draco. Virginia frowned slightly at the note. It still hadn't explained where he was, only that he would be back. She didn't spend too much time worrying about it though. Pulling out the dress she held it close to her. It was obvious that it was an expensive dress. Not like one she had ever had before. Immediately all angry thoughts for Draco exited her head. Virginia rushed to the washroom to try on her dress for the following night. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia finished applying the last bit of make-up. She wanted to look extra special for Draco. She frowned slightly. The dress wasn't really her color. It seemed to clash with her red hair. She shrugged it off though. Draco had obviously thought she would look good in it. "Um, nice dress" a voice called behind her. Virginia looked in the reflection and saw Dreya standing in the picture behind her. "Thanks" Virginia winced. "I know it really isn't my color, but Draco picked it out" she explained. Dreya nodded sympathetically. "Well, it is just makes you look a little pale. It isn't so bad" Dreya comforted. "I think you should get down to the Great Hall though. Draco is probably already there and I know it has started. "Okay" Virginia nodded. She was eager to see Draco. It had been so long. Virginia rushed down to the Great Hall, as she approached the doors she slowed to a walk so she could make a proper entrance. Inside the Hall was decked out just as he had been back in November when they had a dance. Virginia looked around, but couldn't see Draco anywhere. She saw Harry, Hermione and Ron over talking to Seamus and Dean so she decided to go say hi. "Hey guys" Virginia smiled . "Hey" everyone chorused, except Hermione. "Ginny we have got to talk" Hermione said firmly. She grabbed Virginia's hand and pulled her out of the Great Hall. "Hermione, I really am tired of lectures" Virginia sighed. "I know you don't like Draco, but I do and I think that is all that matters" "No" Hermione sighed. "I am not going to lecture you. I just wanted to say" she took a breath. "I am sorry. I hate Mal--Draco, but I know you like him. So I am sorry if I have made your life difficult" she finished. "Apology accepted" Virginia said. She hugged Hermione quickly and the two girls smiled. "Ginny, where did you get that dress?" Hermione asked as they headed back into the Great Hall. "Oh" Virginia winced. "Draco, I guess he really can't choose colors." "well you can go tell him" Hermione smiled. "There he is". She pointed across the room to where Draco was now walking towards her. "Have fun" Hermione said before walking over to join Ron and Harry. "I missed you so much" Draco smiled as he got close to her. Virginia threw her arms around his neck and hugged him close. "Why did you have to leave" she said running her fingers through his blonde hair. "I promise it won't happen again" Draco whispered back. He broke away from her. "It is loud in here. Lets go outside to talk." "Okay, but you have got to promise that you will dance with me later" Virginia smiled. "That is a guarantee" Draco assured Virginia. He kissed her hair lightly and led her out of the Great Hall and outside into the warm night air. "It is beautiful out here" Virginia sighed looking up at the stars. "I thought so. The only thing that kept me sane for the time I was away was the stars" Draco smiled. "They reminded me of you" Virginia turned to him and smiled. She kissed him lightly on the lips. "I love you Draco". Virginia surprised herself as she said this. In truth she really hadn't ever said that yet. "oh god Virginia, I love you, I will always love you" Draco smiled. He leaned close and kissed her again. Virginia felt herself go weak in the knees. Everything was perfect now. "Hey Virginia where did you get the dress?" Draco suddenly asked pulling away. "I never pictured you as the type to like pink...." **************************************************************************** Chapter 15 Going Back to School **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia froze as Draco leaned in to kiss her again. "Draco, um you sent me this dress" Virginia said. She was hit was a wash that something had gone wrong. Draco stopped. "No, I didn't" he frowned. "Virginia, where did you find this?" he asked. His voice was suddenly serious and his grip on her arms had increased. Virginia reached into her hand bag and retrieved the note that had come with the dress. She began to read it aloud, but stopped after the first line. "My sweet Ginny"...... Virginia suddenly had a sickening feeling. Why hadn't she realized before. Draco had never called her Ginny once. He had always called her Virginia. "I don't like this" Draco said his voice a low and unrecognizable tone. Virginia pushed back to fear in her gut. "Who cares Draco, whoever sent the dress obviously didn't what they thought was going to happen" Virginia sighed trying to lighten the mood. "Besides" she said touching his cheek so that he was now looking at her. "Pink really isn't my color." With that Draco smirked. He leaned forward and Virginia closed the gap. Draco gently coaxed her mouth open and slipped his tongue in. Virginia moaned slightly as she tasted him. He always tasted good. She felt Draco's hand slip into her hair and began to tangle his fingers in her curls. "God, I love you" Draco murmured .Virginia felt herself begin to get lost in his arms, but suddenly a painful stinging began in her hair. "Ow" Virginia cried breaking away from the kiss. As she broke away she felt herself being wretched to the ground. She clasped the back of her head to try and sooth some of the pain that now throbbed in her head. It took a moment to comprehend that she had just been thrown to the ground by her hair. She looked up at Draco who was now looking ready to kill. Virginia followed his gaze and saw that it was focused on a tall dark haired man. Those were his hands in her hair, not Draco's. The thought was somewhat revolting. "Draco, god, I wouldn't have believed it if I hadn't seen it for myself" the man said, his voice was hissing with venom. "Well, believe it Lucius." Draco said. His eyes were dark and full of hatred, unlike Virginia had ever quite seen before. She looked up at the man who was standing uncomfortably close to her. His eyes held the same dark hatred, except that he seemed to have a twisted smile on his face. "Why son, whatever happened to calling me Father?" Lucius sneered. "Think that having some slut Weasley girlfriend makes you better? A stupid one at that but at least she found the dress I left her" he chuckled. Then without warning he reached down and grabbed Virginia's hair again. Virginia felt herself being yanked to her feet. She stifled a cry and tried to bring her hands to where her hair was being so tightly grasped. "Is this really worth giving up everything that you have worked for?" he asked. Virginia saw Draco's eyes soften as he looked at her. "No Lucius, she is worth twice as much as you, or any of that torture." He moved forward. "Let her go" "Oh please" Lucius chuckled. He moved and held Virginia tightly by the back of her neck and removed his wand. "Rtasu!" Lucius said almost lazily. A bolt of red and yellow came from his wand and hit Draco in the shoulder. A small burn mark appeared and Draco winced. "Draco, you make a grave mistake, I realize that you are clouded by this treacherous whore, but once she is disposed of you will see the right path. You are a Death Eater! It is your life." Lucius said tightening his grip on Virginia's neck. Virginia could feel the bruises beginning to indent. It was extremely painful. Tears were streaming down her cheeks but she didn't dare make a single noise. Draco brushed at the blood that appeared at his shoulder. "No, you know nothing about my life" Draco said. His voice was trembling with rage and Virginia herself was almost afraid of him. "Fine Draco, if that is your decision, I suppose the two of you can die. First your little girlfriend, so you can watch, then you. But not here Draco. No you will die at the hands of the Dark Lord." Lucius said throwing Virginia to the ground again. As Virginia hit the ground, she coward. She could feel the light rain beginning to fall, it mixed with her salty tears. She looked up at Draco who had removed his wand from his robes. "Lucius this isn't going to end here. You know it." Draco said. He extended his wand and began to say a spell, but Lucius cut him off. His voice was dark and menacing. "Crucio" he said commandingly. Virginia screamed and tried to stand, but could only watch in horror as the terrible curse hit Draco. Immediately Draco sank to the ground. His entire body twitching like he had been hit with electricity. "Scream Draco, scream and it will stop" Lucius said. Virginia got the distinct impression that this wasn't Draco's first time being under the curse. He seemed to be biting his lip. His eyes were clenched shut and no sound was coming forth. "SCREAM" Virginia yelled. She didn't want him to be in pain anymore. Too much and he might go insane with the excruciating torment. Draco seemed to hear this. He let out a blood curdling scream. Lucius lowered his wand and Virginia saw Draco's rigid body relax, though his eyes were still shut and the twitching had not ceased. "Why, you have him trained like a lap dog" Lucius said suddenly turning on Virginia. She moved backwards trying to move away from his approaching form. His arm snapped out and grabbed her wrist. "Maybe you should see what it is like to scream." Lucius smiled malevolently. Virginia froze. She knew immediately that he wasn't talking about the Cruciatus curse. "No," Virginia said. Her voice quivering uncontrollably. "Why don't we see why Draco likes you so much" Lucius said grabbing her other wrist. Virginia tried to squirm but found no way to escape him. "You know, I really thought that you would die, in the first year when you got that diary. I mean you, such a skinny little no body." he pressed her wrist's together and held them with one hand. With the other hand he reached out and touched one of her soft curls. "But now, it seems that it was a good thing that you grew up" he leered at her exposed form in the dress. Virginia felt sickened. She jerked her head away, pulling her hair from his hands. She lifted her leg and tried to kick him firmly in the groan. Lucius seemed to sense that coming and shifted slightly to avoid contact. "Nice try dirty slut. You know I was there when they killed your brother" he hissed. She yelped slightly as Lucius pushed her to the muddy ground. Virginia tried to slide away, but Lucius grabbed her by the dress and ripped it, so all that remained was part of it hanging off of her arm.. He pinned her hands above her head and straddled her tiny form. Virginia tried to struggle beneath him, but found it all useless. "At least you are good for something" he sneered tracing a finger down her abdomen. Virginia tried to scream, but he covered her mouth with his hand. She clenched her eyes shut and let out a stifled sob. "Avada Kedavra!" a low menacing voice suddenly shouted. Virginia opened her eyes just in time to see the blinding green light flash above her. Lucius suddenly lay dead beside her. Virginia breathed out in relief. She started to cry uncontrollably. She looked over and saw Draco was standing weakly on his feet. His wand was still out stretched. Virginia stood and ran to him just as he began to collapse to the ground. She eased him to his knees and felt as he buried his face into her neck. "God Virginia, I am sorry, I love you. I am so sorry. Did you hurt you? God Love I'm sorry" he said his voice trembling. "Draco it will be fine. I am okay." Virginia said ignoring the rain that beat down on them, and the tears that streamed down her face. She felt Draco's grip loosen on her and suddenly he fell backwards to the ground. His eyes were shut was looking deathly pale. Virginia snatched his wand from the ground and quickly shot sparks in the air. She prayed that someone would come quickly. She kneeled down beside his unconscious body. Virginia cradled his head and gently brushed the bits of mud from his hair. Leaning down Virginia kissed his forehead which felt cold. "Don't go Draco. Please Draco, I need you" Virginia sobbed. She felt a hand gently rest on her shoulder, which she ignored. "Virginia, I think I should take a look at Mr. Malfoy" a gentle voice said. Virginia looked up to see Dumbledore standing over her. She turned back and held Draco closer. She knew it was silly, but she couldn't bear to leave him. What if it was the last time she saw him. She felt strong arms grab her and pull her away from Draco. "No" Virginia called out trying to reach back for Draco. She tried to squirm free but found no release. She looked up and saw that it was Professor Snape holding her back. Once he had created enough distance between her and Draco, he quietly released her and walked back over to where Dumbledore was now examining Draco's unconscious form. "GINNY!" a shocked voice called. Virginia turned to see Ron, Hermione and Harry running towards her. They looked briefly at the dead body of Lucius Malfoy before continuing up to Virginia. Ron immediately whipped off his over cloak and threw it around her shoulders. Virginia looked down and realized that Lucius had ripped most of her clothing off. It explained the cold. She was suddenly feeling very calm. She was safe now. "What happened?" Hermione gasped looking around. More teachers were approaching the scene. A few wizards had suddenly appeared, obviously summoned by Dumbledore. Virginia tried to tell her, but the words weren't forming. She was suddenly feeling light headed. "She is going into shock" Harry suddenly said. Virginia frowned. She was not!! She turned to tell him this, but once again the words didn't come. She was just beginning to feel really tired. She tried to sit down so she could rest for a bit, but she felt Ron grab and lift her. "I am going to go take her to Madam Pomfrey" Ron announced. "Hermione stay here and find out what happened." Virginia looked sleepily at the scene around her. A large group of wizards had surrounded Draco's body and some people had gone to dispose of Lucius. Virginia blinked before snuggling close into Ron's hold on her. She felt her eyes shut and she drifted into an incoherent trance. **************************************************************************** Chapter 16 Goodbye Virginia **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia woke with a sudden start. She immediately recognized her surroundings as the hospital wing in Hogwarts. Blinking awake she was able to make out the figure of her mother and father standing over her. George, or was that Fred? Was sitting in the chair beside her bed. "Good morning sweet heart" her mother said smoothing the hair from her daughters face. "Ginny, you had us really worried" her father said sternly. His eyes were red and he looked like he hadn't slept in days. "Really, Ginny, next time you decide to faint could you please make an appointment." George piped up. "Some people have not respect for schedules" he said breaking a joking smile. "Thank you George that will be enough. Why don't you go and watch the Quidditch game that is happening" her mother said. "Thanks Mum" George smiled. "Feel better Gin". He rushed out of the hospital wing, obviously happy for the chance to return to the school. Virginia smiled at her brothers abilities to lighten the mood. Suddenly everything came streaming back to Virginia. Of where she was, of what had happened. She sat up in bed. "Where is Draco" she asked. Her voice was high pitched and scared. "Settle down Ginny" her father said pushing her back down to the bed.. Virginia could feel her heart hurting at the idea that he might not be okay. "Ginny sweetie, why didn’t you tell us that you were involved with Draco Malfoy" Molly Weasley asked sounding desperately scared for her daughter. "Well, with Bill and everything." She said hesitantly. "He just helped me get through it all and then" Virginia let herself trail off. She was dying to see him and sitting her talking to her parents didn't seem to be getting her any closer to that goal. "I didn’t want you to forbid me from seeing him" she sighed trying to find somewhere else to look besides her parents. "Well, normally I would Ginny. That was irresponsible. He is a Death Eater!" her father said. His eyes were blazing with anger. "I mean look at what just happened. You were just about killed" he said. His face was ghostly white and Virginia felt guilty at the anguish in his eyes. "But Draco saved me" Virginia choked. "Lucius was going to.. Draco he" she couldn't bring herself to say it. She felt embarrassed and could feel the lack of sympathy radiating from her parents. "Molly, Arthur. I need to have a private word with Ginny. Since Draco is unconscious we need to have an account of the events" Professor Dumbledore said coming up behind them. "Alright" Molly sighed. Virginia could see their reluctance to leave. Virginia shot Dumbledore a grateful look as both her parents filed out of the room. "Now Virginia, I need to know everything that happened" Dumbledore said taking the chair beside her bed. "Take you time" he said sounding unbiased and very concerned. Virginia took a large shaky breath and began to retell the events that happened. When she got to the part of Lucius's attempted rape she shuddered and could barely form the words. Tears came to her eyes as she explained how Draco had used an Unforgivable Curse only to save her life. "You can't arrest him for that. He was saving me" she said earnestly. Dumbledore nodded and placed a hand on her shoulder, which Virginia flinched against. "We have no plans to arrest him for defense against the dark arts" he smiled. Virginia felt a sigh of relief. "Where is he? Is he okay" she asked suddenly remembering she still didn't know where he was. "Draco is in another part of the Hospital Wing. He is currently unconscious. He was much too weak to be using such a powerful curse. It took a lot out of him." Dumbledore explained. "He will be fine in a few days. Though I don't know when you will get to see him." The last comment caused Virginia to glare. She could feel the tears prickling her eyes. It was her parents doing. That was why she couldn't see him. "They can't stop me" Virginia said defiantly. Dumbledore smiled slightly. "Virginia, you must see things from their view. Draco is yes, a Death Eater." Dumbledore hesitated and Virginia gasped. If Dumbledore knew, Draco would be kicked out of Hogwarts. She began to speak but Dumbledore cut her off. "I have known since before he got his Dark Mark. He came to me in the end of his fifth year and became an informant for me. He has been passing information about the Dark Side to us." Dumbledore said. Virginia felt enraged. To betray the dark side like that could have got him killed. Virginia knew now that she couldn't live without him. "How could- how could he do that to me" she sniffled trying to ignore the choking feeling in her throat. "Virginia, I think it is time that you slept. Your brother brought down some of your things from the Gryffindor tower. I will speak to your parents" Dumbledore assured her. Virginia smiled slightly and lay her head back down onto the pillow. Slowly she felt herself drift into a dream torn sleep. **************************************************************************** ********** "It will be okay now Draco, you saved us. Everything will get better from now" Virginia woke to the sound of a soothing voice. She blinked awake and sat up quickly to better listen. "I am so sorry Draco, I love you, I didn't want you to get hurt" the female voice continued. Virginia frowned and hoped out of the bed. Looking down at herself she saw that she was wearing a plain pair of flannel pajama bottoms and a white tank top. She frowned not remembering how she got into this new attire. Virginia followed the voice of the woman quietly. She eventually came to a door marked Critical. Without warning the door opened. Virginia froze since she had no cover to hide. A woman in light blue robes pushed past the door. She looked in surprise at Virginia who was now regretting she had gone searching. "Are you Virginia?" she asked calmly. Virginia looked up. The woman was a t least forty. She had long waves of blond/gray hair and large blue eyes. "Yes" Virginia said guiltily. She felt foolish for venturing out of bed and getting caught by some unknown woman. I am Narcissa" she said with a smile "Go in and see Draco. I was wondering when you would come" Virginia looked up with surprise. She merely nodded and Virginia pushed to the door open. She felt it whoosh shut after her. Her eyes were trained now to the bed in the middle of the room. "Draco" she said. Her voice sounded strained. She approached the bed and looked down onto the quiet form. Virginia felt tears in her eyes. His shallow breathing was the only thing that comforted her. Virginia sat down on the edge of his bed. "Draco please wake up" she said in a near whisper. It was killing her to see him like this. "Draco I need you" she sniffled running her fingers through his soft blond strands of hair. She leaned down and gently kissed his soft unresponsive lips. It pained her that he didn't react to her kiss. Virginia suddenly was struck with an idea. She hurried back to her own room and grabbed the large book Ron had brought down for her. She hurried back to Draco's room. He was still lying as before in the bed. The thought both relieved and disturbed her. She gracefully sat in the chair next to his bed. "We can continue where we left off last time" she whispered to Draco quietly. She paused in hopes he might acknowledge her presence, but no such luck. Taking a deep breath Virginia continued to read out her large Shakespeare book. It drained further into the night, Virginia wasn't even aware of the passing time. She felt her eyes lids go heavy. Placing one hand on his rising and falling chest she let her head rest on the edge of his bed and drifted into sleep…………. Virginia woke again not to voices, but to the feeling of someone touching her hair. Virginia flinched as the memory of Lucius doing to same thing came into her head. "It's okay Love" a gentle deep voice soothed her. Virginia opened her eyes to look up. Draco was now awake and sitting up in bed. His fingers continued to curl around her hair as though that very action delighted him to no ends. "I am sorry Virginia." Draco said. His eyes were still filled with the pains of the past night. He took the hand that she had placed on his bare chest and brought it to his lips. He softly kissed her fingertips. Virginia smiled at the small action. "It wasn't your fault Draco, you saved me". "Yes, but from something you didn't deserve" Draco sighed. Virginia stood up from the chair and sat herself on the side of his bed. Immediately Draco wrapped his arms around her and tried to pull her closer to him. Virginia resisted. "My parents are here" she said sadly. "They don't approve." She saw Draco's face drop with disappointment. "I am not surprised." Draco sighed. He reluctantly removed his possessive hands from her. "Draco, why didn't you tell me you are an informant" Virginia sighed. She saw Draco flinch suddenly. "WAS, an informant. Not anymore, I just killed one of the most influential Death Eaters" Draco sighed. "It is nice to have an out." He sighed. He ran his fingers through her hair, unable to help himself. Virginia smiled. "Draco what happens now?" she asked. Draco smiled and was about to answer, when suddenly he was interrupted by a hostile voice behind them. "Ginny! You better get out of his bed right now!". Virginia felt Draco's fingers retract from her hair. She turned to see Ron looking quite angry. "Hello Ron" Virginia sighed. She slipped off of Draco's bed and sat back down in the chair. Draco looked with disdain to Ron. "Is there something I can help you with Weasley?" he asked his eyes growing with the same hostility. "Yah, you and me have to talk Draco, ALONE" he said directing the last part towards Virginia. Virginia sighed and reluctantly got up from her seat. "I will be right outside" she said to both of them as a warning. Virginia left the room, but didn't shut the door all the way. She had the complete intent to listen to everything they were saying. ~~~ "I don't like you Malfoy" Ron started. He crossed his arms over his chest in defiance. "Then we are in agreement on one thing" Draco snorted. Virginia grimaced this wasn't going well. "I don't want you seeing my sister" Ron said. Virginia could feel her blood boiling at this. "BUT," Ron continued. "She is different, when she is around you. Our family had gone through a lot of hardship in the last year. She seems to be coping with it and I am going to give you some of the credit in that. I want to know your intentions for her" he said in a commanding tone. Virginia was surprised. She could see that Draco was as well. It took him a moment to wipe the shock off of his face. "Well, it is simple" Draco said quite coolly. "I love her" Virginia could only see the back of Ron, but she could sense the shock. "oh-well then" Ron stuttered. It obviously wasn't the answer he had expected. "I am going to condone this. But if you so much as make her cry, I will kill you. Do you hear me Malfoy." Ron threatened. "Ron" Draco began. Virginia gasped as she heard him use his first name. It had to be the first time since they met six years earlier. "I could never hurt Virginia." He said fiercely. "Good" Ron seemingly shocked. He extended his hand, which both of them seemed surprised about. Draco took his hand and they shook briefly. Virginia chose this opportunity to enter the room again. She rushed up to Ron and hugged the much taller boy. "Thank you Ron" she said as she felt his arms hug her back. "My pleasure" Ron grumbled slightly. Virginia knew he had anticipated having to beat Draco up. Ron left the room but not before giving another warning. "Mom and Dad are coming Gin, I doubt that they would want to catch you in any um-- interesting situations" he said going pink. Virginia nodded and Ron left. "Thank you" Virginia sighed moving back towards Draco. Draco gave her a half smile. His blond hair was falling in soft strands into his gray eyes. Virginia sat down on his bed and gently brushed the hair from his face. Draco shut his eyes at her touch. Virginia smiled and leaned in to kiss him. Their lips touched gently. "GINNY!" a voice sharply interrupted. Virginia and Draco both pulled apart immediately (again). Virginia looked up and looked to see both her parents in the doorway. "Hello Mum, Dad, this is Draco Malfoy" Virginia said trying to keep herself calm. She knew that this wasn't exactly how she had planned this meeting. "Virginia Weasley. I want you to go back to your dorm, change and go to class. You have your OWLs" Arthur said sternly to her youngest daughter. "We need to talk to Draco" Molly said. Virginia felt Draco give her hand a reassuring squeeze. "Okay" Virginia said meekly. She left the room, quite afraid of what would happen when she left. Virginia hurried back down to the Gryffindor Towers. She threw on the nearest robes she found and grabbed her books. She had four minutes to get down to take her OWLs. She rushed down to the testing room and sat down just as the supervising teacher entered the room. It was Professor Snape. Virginia groaned slightly. "I want everyone to begin the test and NO TALKING" Snape said angrily. He didn't seem very happy to have to watch the Gryffindor's taking their tests. The tests were handed out and Virginia winced. She had to do many different things successfully, including Transfiguring a paper clip into a piece of fruit, create a working sleeping draught and many other things. Looking at the test she could see that she wouldn't be getting many OWLs. **************************************************************************** ********** As soon as Virginia finished her test, she hurried out of the room. It had taken her nearly three hours to complete. She rushed back up to the hospital wing. She was eager to see Draco, and her stomach was doing flip flops. She rushed into the room and ignored Madam Pomfrey's lecture about running in the halls. Virginia burst into Draco's room, she came to an abrupt halt. Draco's bed was empty and Molly and Arthur were still in their sitting on chairs. "What is going on" Virginia asked uneasily. "Where is Draco?" "Ginny, we don't want you to see Draco. It isn't good for you" Molly said regretfully. She didn't want to make her daughter upset, but she wanted what was best for her. "No, you can't do that" Virginia said. She felt horrified. What had they said to him? "Ginny, honey please just listen. You are going to come home with us now. We cleared it with Dumbledore. Now that your OWLs are over, there isn't much to do in these last weeks of school." Arthur explained. Virginia gave them both the most hateful look she could muster. She snatched her Shakespeare book, which was still on the nightstand. "I guess I should go pack then" she said, her voice was wavering. She didn't wait for her parents to respond. She rushed from the room. Virginia walked slowly and defeated back up to the Gryffindor tower. "Chinese Fireball" she said quietly to the Fat Lady. The portrait swung open and Virginia walked into the common room. There seemed to be a celebration for fifth years who had finished their OWLs. Virginia ignored it and went up to her room. She sat down on her bed and began to gather her things. The tears were threatening to spill. Deep down she had her suspicions that this was going to happen to her. "Oh, Ginny, I heard that you have to go early, too bad" the sickeningly sweet voice of Jora suddenly cooed in her ear. Virginia turned to face the girl behind her. "JORA WHY DON"T YOU JUST SHUT YOU FUCKING TRAP" Virginia yelled allowing the tears free range to her face. She watched Jora look visibly shocked. Virginia didn't stop there though. "I AM SICK AND TIRED OF YOU! YOU HAVE DONE NOTHING BUT MAKE MY LIFE MISERABLE AND IT IS GOING TO STOP NOW!" she bellowed her voice trembling with fury. She knew it wasn't right to take her anger out of Jora, she was truly mad at her parents, well not even her parents, just at circumstance. Jora looked about ready to answer. "I think that Virginia and I should talk alone" a familiar voice said from behind Jora. Jora turned to see Draco Malfoy. His arms were crossed and he was propped up against the doorway. Jora nodded mutely and left the room. Draco watched her pass before locking his gray eyes on Virginia's angry brown ones. Virginia could barely breath as she looked at him. He made no motion to move from the doorway and that causing Virginia too feel even more hurt. "Draco" she managed to squeeze out of her closing throat. "I came to say goodbye" Draco explained. Virginia watched as suddenly his eyes became void of all emotion, the same way Virginia's used to. "I guess I will see you next year" he said forcing his voice to become calculated and concise. This only made Virginia's eyes to blur with tears to the point that she didn't have to look at the cold object of her affection. "Your ripping my heart out" she said before turning back to her trunk. She threw her stuff in it. She could still feel his cool gaze on her back. "Bye Virginia" she heard him say softly. She listened as he exited the room. Virginia allowed herself to collapse on the bed. She angrily threw her Shakespeare book across the room and screamed into her pillow trying to muffle the hurt she was feeling. **************************************************************************** Chapter 17 Forever **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia sat on her window bench and looked out the window. She had been there for most of the night. Her tired strained eyes searched the early morning for an owl, any owl. She had spent much of her summer by that window. Just hoping, and praying that Draco would decide to write her. The August sun was now beginning to peak through the tree's. Virginia sighed. "Happy Birthday" she whispered to herself with a sad smile. It seemed like a thousand years ago since her past birthday. She remembered that she had been crying about not getting a truly touching and personal gift from everyone in her family. The thought made her blush. She figured that since then she had changed. Sliding of the window seat she grabbed a blue robe and pulled it over her head. She heard a knock on her door. "Come in" Virginia called sitting down on her bed. She watched as the very pregnant Odessa came through the door. "Happy sixteenth Virginia" she smiled brushing her blond curls from her cheeks. "Thanks Odessa" Virginia smiled. "I found this for you. I thought you might want it" Odessa said. She extended a small package wrapped in blue paper. "It isn't your birthday gift, it is just something I thought you might like" she explained. Virginia smiled and took the present. Odessa eased herself onto the bed beside her. Virginia tore off the blue paper. She gasped. It was a cloudy blue picture frame. In the center was a familiar picture. Virginia looked down on the smiling image of herself at eight. Her hair was bright purple. She was hugging tightly another purple haired individual Virginia recognized immediately as Bill. Bill's purple hair was spiked and seemed to bring out his bright blue eyes. She remembered when Bill dyed her hair. It was to disguise herself for running away from home. Virginia laughed as she saw Bill hug his little sister closer. She touched to picture lovingly as though she thought she might absorb something from it. "It is wonderful" Virginia smiled. She was surprised to hear that she wasn't choked up, like she usually was when something reminded her of Bill. "I thought you would like it" Odessa said still getting the choked up feeling, she resting one of her hands gently on her full stomach. "So what are your plans now that you are sixteen?" "I am not really sure" Virginia sighed. She bit her lip, even though it had been nearly three months since she had last seen him, she still refused to accept that he was gone. That they were over. That was be too painful to fathom. "Virginia, maybe it is time to move on" Odessa said gently reading the girls pained expression. "You are still young." She said even knowing then that it wasn't quite true. Draco hadn't been a typical boyfriend. "I know." Virginia sighed. She brushed the unshed tears from her eyes. "It is harder than it looks" Odessa leaned over and kissed her forehead. "I know how it feels" she whispered. Odessa then eased herself to her feet. She left the room knowing that Virginia was now deep in thought. Virginia sighed, she took one last look out the window before exiting her room. Her heart was aching, after spending an entire summer waiting and crying over someone who obviously wasn't who she thought they were. Virginia slowly walked down the stairs and into the kitchen, her mother, father and two of her brothers were all sitting at the large kitchen table. "Happy Birthday Gin!!" Ron said over exuberantly. Virginia gave him a small smile. She knew he was trying to compensate for the uncomfortable atmosphere always created when Virginia came in contact with her parents. "Yes Happy sixteenth" Persy said standing up. "I just came to drop off your gift. Penelope is expecting me home" he explained. Kissing his sister quickly on the cheek he handed her a small package. "Thanks Persy" Virginia smiled. She sat down in his vacated seat. "Happy birthday sweetie" Molly said looking fondly at her daughter. Virginia smiled weakly at her mother. It was still hard to have to talk to them. "Thanks mum" Virginia managed. "What is planned for today?" she asked looking down at her plate rather than them. "Not really anything actually. We felt that you might just want to have a quiet day. A little too old for parties I guessed" Arthur shrugged. Virginia smiled appreciatively. It was true she really didn't want a party, or really anything at all. A sickening idea hit her. School would be starting soon, and when it did Virginia would be back to being plain old Ginny. Just like in her fourth year. Of course the past year had been like nothing else. She had finally felt like Virginia, the girl she wanted to be. Now, she would be Ginny again. "I think I am going to go take a walk" Virginia said suddenly. Her parents gave her slightly pained looks. They knew that they had caused some of the pain now radiating from their only daughter. "Come back in about an hour then okay?" Arthur said strictly. "We do have some family like activities planned." "Oh and if you see Seth please come and tell him to get his breakfast" Molly said. Virginia nodded and hurried out of the house. She noticed Seth up in a tree. "Seth, Mum says it is time for you to get breakfast" she informed him. Seth smiled at her. "Happy Birthday!" he cried happily waving to her. Virginia gave a slight smile waved up to him and continued to walk along. Seth had been smiling since he had arrived at The Burrow, and everyone was happy to have him around. Molly had missed having all of her young children around and now that Seth was there, she immediately took over mother figure to him. Seth was given the childhood that he had already been denied for twelve years. She looked behind her, he had jumped down from the tree and was running towards the house. It had been a long struggle to let Odessa have custody of him, but in the end the Zardask's weren't willing to go to Wizard Court over it. They were afraid some of their other misconduct would be revealed in trail. Virginia smiled slightly and continued down the dirt road heading away from her house. The morning was already promising that the day would be hot and unforgiving to people with fair skin like herself. She breathed softly in the morning air. She kicked the dusty ground beneath her feet. She was now not focusing on her direct path only on the thoughts crowding her head. She was suddenly filled with questions about the past year, she decided everything had started on this very day last year. The day she turned fifteen. She recalled all the times she had asked Draco the same question. "So what happens now?". Each time he had never answered her. He had found ways never to tell her. Now Virginia realized that it was probably a sign that there wasn't really going to be a later to happen. She shut her eyes and breathed deeply. It was hard feeling your heart break. It was like a guitar string snapping, slowly and painfully the strings on her heart were snapping. She continued down the rode for another twenty minutes. Virginia couldn't barely take it anymore. She turned back to her house. Being by herself made to many thoughts clear, thoughts that she wanted to stay clouded over. Quickly hurrying back, both so that other peoples talk could fill her head, and that her father had told her to return in an hour. Skipping up to the house she opened the door. "SURPRISE" a thundering boom came. Virginia felt her breath choke in her throat. In the living room was every single one of her family members, Hermione, Harry, Seth and Odessa. They all seemed particularly proud of the surprise written across Virginia's face. "Oh Wow" Virginia managed to say. She tried to muster as much enthusiasm as she could. In truth she REALLY hadn't wanted a party. "This is so unexpected." "I knew you would be surprised" Seth announced. "We have been planning this for a LONG time" he said as though it had been extremely hard work. Virginia couldn't help but to smile at that. "Well come sit down and open your presents. Lets get this party going" Hermione said in a voice of authority. Virginia soon found herself shoved down between Persy's wife Penelope and Harry. Presents shoved into her lap. Slowly she began to unwrap the first one. **************************************************************************** ********** Virginia yawned slightly. Her family really had planned the entire day. Virginia had to admit it had been fun. The twins had brought home many tricks from their new joke shop. They left them in various places of the house. The funniest Virginia had to say was the Insulting Toilet Paper, (You can make your guess at what that does). By the end of the day as she found herself stretched out across her bed, a smile was on her face and amazingly she had found she had barely thought of Draco all day, JUST about all day at least. She felt sleepy, her eyelids beginning to droop. A quick look at the clock showed her that it was nearing eleven thirty, her birthday was just about over. There was a slight tap at her door. "Come in" Virginia said in a tired voice. She tilted her head so she could see her mother enter the room. "Hi Mum" "Ginny, we need to talk" Molly said solemnly. "Did you enjoy your birthday?" "Yes," Virginia said in a short voice. "It was fine." "You suppose I should tell you." Molly said. "Your father and I owled Draco. We gave him consent to come and see you or to just contact you." she said with a sigh. Virginia's eyes flew wide open. "WHAT?" she said in utter disbelief. A surge of happiness rushed through her. Draco would come and see her now, or at least write her. "Honey" Molly continued her voice didn't share her daughters cheer. Instead she sounded quite sad. Virginia let the smile fade from her face. "When did you owl him" she said only slightly dampened by her mothers non smiling face. "three weeks ago" she said slowly. Virginia felt any form of excitement slip away from her. A sudden clot had formed in her throat. Her mother looked torn by Virginia's sad face. "I am sorry" she said in a near whisper. She kissed her on the forehead and left the room. Virginia waited until her mother had shut her door completely. She felt the tears fall down her cheeks now. If she thought that her heart breaking hurt, now that it was finally broken the pain was unbelievable. Draco had been allowed to contact her. Why had he not? Maybe she really didn't know him. He had so easily let her leave, and now that he had the chance to get her back, he didn't. Virginia stood suddenly from her bed. Any tiredness that had been with her now evaporated. Her mind was suddenly filling with the thoughts of betrayal. Her parents had been right to take her away from him. Virginia couldn't take it. She rushed out of her room. She hurried down the stairs and passed by Ron and Hermione who were kissing on the couch. Not caring that she was in her pajama's Virginia rushed outside. Her tears stung her cheeks in the warm night. She shivered even though she wasn't cold. Virginia ran until she found her legs no longer worked. Collapsing to the ground she found herself on her back looking up at the starry night. The formation of stars known as Draco glared down on her mockingly. It only increased her pain. Soft sobs stifled from deep within her. Virginia wasn't sure how long she had spent out there crying. A sound behind her caused her to sit up. Virginia looked behind her to see the approaching form. A small cry escaped her throat. It was Draco. "Your mother told me you would be up here" Draco said in a quiet voice. Virginia looked up at him, tears were dancing in his eyes. Virginia was surprised to see the emotion showing on his face. "I thought I had lost you" he said. His voice was shaking. "I have been right here the whole time" Virginia said, her voice was cool as she reverted back to her emotionless mode. Draco dropped to his knees infront of her. "I am sorry" he said reaching his hand out to touch her. Virginia flinched. "Have I lost you" Draco asked. He seemed horrified at the mere idea. His silver eyes began to search hers. Virginia wasn't sure how to answer. A part of her wanted to foolishly run into his arms and tell him he could never loose her. "Why are you here?" she asked trying to keep her tone calculated. She averted her gaze. "I came to see you. I am sorry it took me so long. I was just, well I was scared" Draco sighed. He locked his eyes on hers again. Virginia felt herself unable to look away. A few strands of his blond hair fell into his serious face. "I was dealing with some things" Virginia felt her face contort slightly. She knew he must mean his fathers death. "I am sorry" she whispered. "I know your father…" she started. Draco cut her off. "My father has nothing to do with this" He said fiercely. Virginia was surprised at the change in his voice. "Do you realize that I just about lost you that day?" he seemed pained by the memory. Virginia suddenly had a revelation. Draco was still blaming himself for that night of the dance. "It made me realize Virginia. It made me think about forever." Virginia frowned. "What do you mean forever? You know that it wasn't your fault" she hadn't noticed the tears still falling from her eyes. "I brought you your birthday present" Draco said abruptly. He held out a small box. Virginia hesitated before taking the box. Opening it she gasped. Inside was a quill. Not just any quill though. Lifting it out of the box she felt her voice catch in her throat. Everything but the nib seemed to be covered in little blue sapphires, a tiny little gold surface was around the middle. Looking closer Virginia saw the words in tiny script. "Forever". "Draco this is too much" she whispered not wanting to think about the cost. She knew he had gotten it for her writing. "What does forever mean?" "It is your answer Virginia" Draco said letting a genuine smile form on his lips. "What happens next? Forever" he paused for a moment. "I realize now. We are forever. That is was is next for us. Forever." He finished quietly. "At least it could be" Virginia swallowed hard. She placed the quill back into the box. Looking up at him she managed a smile. "I love you" "I love you too" . Leaning forward Draco enveloped her into a kiss. His soft lips found hers and he kissed her deeply. Virginia knew immediately as his lips found hers that this was the life she was meant to live, the girl she was meant to be. **************************************************************************** Chapter 18 Happily Ever After **************************************************************************** ********** Draco woke and shifted slightly in his bed. The faint sound of crying had woke him from sleep. Letting his eyes adjust to the darkened bedroom he looked around. His wife was still asleep. Her pale skin in outlined in the moon light caused him to smile. It was nice to know he had something so heavenly all to himself. He leaned over and kissed her soft hair before sliding out of bed. He slipped on a pair of black lounge pants and a plain white T-shirt before leaving the room. He followed the little cries down the hall of his new manor until he found there origin. In a small study there was a tiny red headed girl. Her tears illuminated her large blue eyes and pale skin. "I'm lost" she said in a trembling voice. Draco smiled and crouched down until he was eye level with her. "Well Memory, that happens when you are supposed to be in bed". The little girl blushed and raised her hands up to him. Draco scooped the small girl into his arms. She quickly wrapped her arms around his neck and played with his blond hair. "I'm sorry Uncle Draco" Memory said in her best get-out-off-trouble voice. Draco hugged his niece close as he walked back to the room she was staying in. "That is okay" he sighed knowing that he couldn't punish her. "But it is time for sleep now" he said attempting to be stern with her. He lowered her onto the bed. Memory smiled up at her Uncle and ignored his statement. "When is Mummy coming back?" she asked twirling fingers into her red curls. Draco sighed. He loved taking care of Memory when Odessa needed time away. Currently Odessa was in France with Seth. She was treating him to a vacation for making Prefect at Hogwarts. "You Mum will be back tomorrow to pick you up" he explained helping her get back beneath the covers. Memory shifted and pulled the covers to her chin. "I'm not tired" she stated with a cutesy smile. Draco winced. He found it just about impossible to say no to her. "Couldn't we stay up and play for a bit" she pleaded. Draco could see how tired she was, but couldn't resist. "Well, I suppose we could" Draco said looking at her with adoring eyes. "Tomorrow you can" a voice said behind them. Draco turned to find Virginia standing her arms crossed with an amused smile on her face. "It is past Uncle Draco's bedtime though" she explained. Memory giggled slightly at this. Draco smiled. "Well, I guess we can tomorrow" he repeated regretfully. He kissed Memory softly on the forehead and watched as the little girl snuggled into her pillow. "Goodnight" she said her eyelids already beginning to drift shut. Draco walked over to his wife who shut the door after they left. "She has you wrapped around her little finger" Virginia said in disbelief. "Is it so hard to imagine?" Draco chuckled wrapping his arms around her. Virginia smiled and snuggled into his arm. "I distinctly remember seeing two men leave your office in tears. How is it now that my five year old niece brings you to your knees." Virginia asked as they entered there bedroom. "Well she is much cuter than some stuffy Ministry people" Draco said teasingly. He slipped out of his shirt and sat down on the bed. Virginia took the opportunity and sat on his lap. Draco smiled and held her close. He never got over the fact that she was there with him. Ever since that night five years earlier when he had almost lost her, he found it amazing that she was still with him. What could he have possibly done so right to deserve her. "What are you thinking about?" Virginia asked cutting through his thoughts. Draco snapped back to attention to realizing he had let himself drift. He looked into her large curious brown eyes happily. "Just you" he said with a small smile. Gently he brought his lips to hers. The feeling of her small fingers trailing up his bare chest caused him to shiver with joy. "Oh really, and what awful thing were you pondering about me?" Virginia asked pulling away from his kiss. Her hands stroked through his hair lovingly. Draco sighed and ran his hand down her bare thigh. "Just how perfect you are." He smiled. "mm, you always say the right things" his wife teased. Draco smiled and she brought her lips back to his and entered into a passionate kiss. Eventually they broke away both lying on the bed. Draco softly nibbling on her soft neck. "Draco we have to talk now" Virginia sighed. She rested her head on his shoulder and letting his wrap his arms around her. "What about Love?" Draco asked continuing to kiss her smooth neck. "Don't try and distract me" Virginia ordered trying in vain to think of anything but the pleasure he caused by kissing her neck. "Distracting? How am I distracting?" Draco asked a wicked smile formed on his face. He slipped on of his hands under her shirt and began to slowly move it up her stomach. "Draco I am serious" Virginia said trying to fight the smile on her face. "Well then just come out and say it" Draco said tickling the soft flesh around her bellybutton. "Fine" Virginia sighed. "Draco I'm pregnant" Draco stopped tickling. He felt Virginia's hand press his down against her stomach. Draco looked down at her hand over his in amazement. He looked up at Virginia, a little twinkle in his eyes. "I am going to be a father?" he said in disbelief. A surge of joy rushed through him as he said these words. "Yes" Virginia said. Draco broke into a large smile. A small cry of joy erupted from deep within him. He turned and kissed Virginia with all the emotion he had now brimming inside of him. He felt her squeak in surprise at the intensity. "We are going to have a family" she said as he moved his lips only inches from hers. Draco looked down into her sparkling eyes. The emotion played on the edge mingling with tears of happiness. Draco smiled down. His life was suddenly so perfect. If six years ago someone had told him that he would be married to Virginia Weasley who wrote Muggle books, working for the Ministry in correcting the wrongs done by Voldemort and expecting a child Draco would have laughed in there face. Now looking down at his wife he had to smile. She was everything. She was his forever. She really was Not the Girl You Thought You Knew. **************************************************************************** The End.....
	Back to Home Page