Thread: Harry Potter and What Really Happened After Voldemort (solvaris & darkangel76)

Almost instantly, Hermione's cheeks turned red. She bit down on her lower lip, words escaping her for once. Ron certainly knew how to make her breathless and he'd barely had to do anything. Ginny hadn't noticed the sudden silence, however. She was too preoccupied looking out the window. Meanwhile, Luna let her palm rest against Neville's as he gave her a look. Luna giggled softly, her attention on the Gryffindor boy holding her hand. I'm sure I can help you, Neville, she offered. I've read the book already and can tell you lots of things. She smiled, her hand giving his a little squeeze as excitement coursed through her. Then it'll be a breeze reading through it all. She sat back then, taking Neville's hand with her. Ginny knew her friends were discussing something, but she wasn't overly interested. She was sure Ron was making another pass at Hermione. If only he'd make his move without beating around the bush all the time. Hermione had been pining over her brother for years, while he had his fun with Lavender and the occasional other. But it was always Hermione he'd wanted. Ugh! The two just needed a good snog! She shook her head at the thought and smiled inwardly. Ginny was envious of her brother and best friend. She could only hope to find something as genuine. Yes, everyone thought she and Harry were destined and a few years ago the idea would have thrilled her. But now? Now, it didn't set so well and all the expectations people had were making her uncomfortable, making her confused. Just who was Ginny Weasley anyway? Sometimes, she swore that even she didn't know. Lost in thought, Ginny looked out the window. In the distance, she saw something in the sky and heading toward her. Her dark eyes went wide when she realized it was a hippogryff. She swallowed hard and took a small step back so that she was under the cover of shadow. Just then, a tiny breeze caressed her skin. She shivered and then noticed the hippogryff wasn't alone. Draco? Ginny whispered out loud. No one seemed to hear her or pay any attention to her as she stared out the window. Hon-honestly, Ron, Hermione teased. Her tummy was all a flutter, as the wall built up around her came crumbling down. She glanced over at Luna, the blonde's words bolstering her confidence. Pity Luna seemed oblivious as to how her actions were affecting Neville. I suppose you could use the extra help. Luna grinned and turned to face Neville. She found him to be sweet as he all but admitted that vampires were lost on him. That settles it, Luna stated, her fingers somehow lacing with Neville's. Ginny finally turned around to see what had gotten everyone in such a flutter. Hermione will help Ron and I'll help Neville in understanding these beings. And Ginny, you'll have the book on hand. So why don't you see if you can test things out with Draco. She paused a moment. There might even be information he doesn't know. Me? Ginny squeaked. Why me? And...Draco? Her face suddenly felt hot, her freckles popping out against her flawless skin. Hermione shifted her stance slightly. You'd be the best one, she added. Besides, it'll help us understand what we're really dealing with. Luna just nodded in agreement. I...I suppose, Ginny stammered. A part of Ginny was secretly thrilled about the opportunity. After all, she'd already decided to learn all she could about vampires...about Draco. Just then, she heard the soft cry of the hippogryff. She glanced out the window and saw Draco speaking to the beast as if they were long lost friends. She couldn't help but smile at the sight of it. A few years ago, Draco would've been cursing the poor creature. She remembered the story Ron had told her about Draco's encounter with Buckbeak. Watching, she saw the beast take off and Draco moved around to another side of the mansion. It was clear that he had no intention of returning via the same way he'd left. If you'll excuse me, Ginny said, her hands trembling. She was going to find Draco. Beat him at his game of hide and seek, and no doubt, 'scare'. I'm going to search around. Good idea, Hermione praised. We can split up. Ron and I can search the ground floor. Luna, you and Neville can explore the dungeons and... her voice trailed as she looked at Ginny. The red head had no partner. I'll take the upstairs, Ginny interjected just before bolting out of the room and up the stairs. The hallway was dark, not a soul to be found. But somehow, Ginny was sure that the Slytherin was up there. She felt it in her bones. She felt it in her blood. Slowly, she walked down the dark hall, her eyes resting on a door. It was a good enough place to start. Digging deep and finding her courage, she twisted the knob and pushed it open.