SIYE Time:1:03 on 19th March 2024 SIYE Login: no | | |
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Category: Alternate Universe, Post-Hogwarts
Characters:Harry/Ginny
Genres: Fluff, Humor, Romance
Warnings: Extreme Language, Intimate Sexual Situations, Mild Language, Mild Sexual Situations
Story is Complete
Rating: R
Reviews: 61
Summary: Most things didn’t come naturally to Harry -- like brewing a Pepperup Potion or making a halfway decent treacle tart. In fact, the only thing that had come naturally was Quidditch… until he met Ginny Weasley.
Hitcount: Story Total: 55634; Chapter Total: 4307
Awards: View Trophy Room
Author's Notes: A huge thank you goes to gryffindormischief and TheDistantDusk for editing this chapter! The songs used in this chapter are: Make a Man Out of You from Disney's Mulan, Marvin Gaye by Charlie Puth, and Perfect by Ed Sheeran.
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“No way!”
“Come on, Harry,” Ginny pleaded.
“Gin, there’s no way.”
“No one will know you there.”
Harry let his forehead fall onto the cool wood of the kitchen table. “That’s not the issue.”
Ginny huffed. “Then why won’t you come do karaoke with me?” She had been wandering through Muggle London with a few of her teammates going from one bar to the next, until they found a karaoke bar in Paddington. The (not at all sober) Harpies had been delighted by the idea of singing, albeit poorly. Ginny had personally loved her rendition of ...Baby One More Time.
Ginny stood from the chair that sat across from her boyfriend. The moment she had entered that little karaoke bar, she had known she would be dragging Harry there. Harry claimed he was a poor singer, but she had heard him in the shower… no, he put on a good performance for the soap.
“We’ll do a song together,” Ginny claimed, moving behind Harry, whose head was still laying on the table. She started to rub his shoulders, removing any kinks she found.
“I don’t sing.” Harry’s voice was muffled, but she could hear his resolve slipping as she massaged away his tension.
“You sound great in the shower.” She pressed her lips to the back of his left shoulder blade.
“Everyone sounds good in the shower.”
“Well this will be just like the shower, except there’s no water and I won’t be joining you naked.”
Harry’s body shook as he laughed. He lifted his head and turned his neck to face her. “You won’t take no for an answer, will you?”
“Nope.” Ginny let the P pop at the end of the word.
Heaving a sigh, Harry stood and embraced her, his lips falling onto hers. “You’re lucky I love you, because I wouldn’t do this for anyone else.”
Ginny continued to embrace him. “Lucky, or just that good?” She traced up his jawline with her lips. “Love you too.”
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Harry kept his eyes moving from one bar patron to the next. Chattering groups of people had converged in the small karaoke bar in Paddington. Never in a million, trillion years would Harry have guessed he’d ever enter this establishment, let alone actually sing in it.
Ginny had gone up to the bar to buy them a couple drinks (Harry had requested something strong). He had claimed a table for them in the corner. Two menus sat on the polished wood, one for food and one for songs.
The final deal they had made was that they would spend some time here (Harry was required to sing one song with his, as Ginny put it, “incredible and talented girlfriend”) and next week, they would go watch the Muggle film he had been dying to see (something that held no interest to Ginny). Compromise!
“Here you go!” Ginny beamed as she placed the two drinks down on the table. “I’ve signed up for a solo song and a duet.”
The look of panic Harry shot her made Ginny shake her head. “Don’t worry. I’ve asked them to wait until you’ve had at least three drinks before calling us up there.”
Harry’s heart rate slowed considerably with that news. He took a large gulp of the beer Ginny had bought him. “What’s your solo song gonna be?”
“It’s a surprise.” Ginny’s smirk was wicked. “But trust me, you’ll know it.”
A young couple was singing up on the stage at that very moment, performing a song that Harry had only heard in stores as his mother dragged him shopping. The man had his arms wrapped around who Harry assumed was his girlfriend as he read he lyrics over her shoulder.
“So, my mum has been laying hints about bringing you around.” Ginny was looking at him, amusement evident by the glint in her eyes. Harry had been watching the singing couple with fear running through his veins. He had no desire to go up there and make a fool of himself, but Ginny’s words had brought him out of his own head.
“Really?” He took another long draught from his bottle.
“Oh yeah. She’s really excited to met you. And knowing her,” Ginny snorted, “she’s going to try to set a wedding date.”
Harry laughed. “My mother will do the same thing when you meet her this weekend.”
They continued to chat, lost in their own little world. Harry was only able to measure time based on the number of beers he had drunk. By the end of his second Ginny’s name was called up. She jumped from her seat enthusiastically, kissed Harry quickly and rushed up to the little stage.
Ginny started to bob her body as an intense drum beat started. Harry felt his jaw drop. He would recognize that opening anywhere.
Let's get down to business, to defeat the Huns
Did they send me daughters, when I asked for sons?
Ginny sang with conviction as she performed a song from his favorite movie. At the line: Mister, I'll make a man out of you, she winked at Harry, which made his cheeks heat.
Harry was fascinated by this side of Ginny. There had never been a doubt she was outgoing. The way she liked to gather people to listen to her stories was just one example, but this was something else. All eyes gravitate to her. She was stunning in every way possible, and it was obvious she was having the time of her life.
He had always been more of an introverted soul. He could stay home every weekend, happily having a couple friends over to listen to a Quidditch match. Ginny, however, was an extroverted person. She enjoyed being out and in the limelight, but, she was also content sitting around with Harry, watching Disney movies and lying about in bed.
At that moment, Harry made a commitment to bring her out more, to bring her to different, exciting places. Between the Muggle world and wizarding side of things, there were plenty of options. He’d be willing to deal with pressing crowds just to see that ecstatic look in her eyes over and over.
Mysterious as the dark side of the moon
She sang the final line with dedication, fist clenched for emphasis. The room applauded as she cheerfully walked back to their corner table. “See!” She reclaimed her seat. “It’s fun.”
Harry moved his chair so he was right beside her. He placed his fingers on her chin, turning her so she faced him and kissed her soundly. Ginny was shocked; it took her a moment to react. Harry had never been one for public displays, but she responded enthusiastically once she recovered.
“I’m guessing you enjoyed yourself?” Ginny asked, her voice low.
“You were incredible.” Harry kissed her one final time before removing himself from her personal bubble (however he did leave an arm draped around the back of her chair).
“Well!” Ginny clasped her hands together. “I’m glad you think so, because you’re about to perform with me after this next couple.”
Though Harry wanted to be with Ginny when she did all the things she loved, his nerves were still fried by the idea of going up and singing. The older couple’s rendition of Endless Love, ended much faster than Harry’d have liked. He heard his name called, and Ginny took his hand, guiding him to the stage.
“The song is called Marvin Gaye,” Ginny told him, as she placed a microphone in his hand. “You’re going to be up first.”
Sure enough, the little screen illuminated with the words while the music started playing:
Man:
Let’s Marvin Gaye and get it on
You got the healing that I want
Harry felt frozen in place, the microphone clutched in numb fingers. His mouth was open, but nothing came out. It should have been just like heading onto the field for a match... everything extra should fade away...the fans, any background noise, advertisements on the screens.
However, that wasn’t happening here.
“Come on, Harry.” Ginny placed a hand on his back. “You can do it.”
Just like they say it in the song
Until the dawn, let’s Marvin Gaye and get it on
Still no words came out, and the slightly staticky instruments made the only sounds in the bar. Every eye was focused towards the stage to see who was choking so badly.
“Merlin,” Ginny muttered under her breath. She kept her hand on Harry’s back, but took control of the scene, singing his part.
We got this king size to ourselves
Don't have to share with no one else
She hit him right between the shoulder blades, and oddly it knocked him into action. His voice joined hers.
Don't keep your secrets to yourself
It's kamasutra show and tell
Ginny’s hand started rubbing small circles on his back as she let him take over. He kept his eyes trained on the screen, and sung his part. It seemed to pass in a blur. The chorus...then Ginny’s part. At first he’d felt like a statue, but by the end he felt more comfortable, mostly because he focused on Ginny and not the crowd.
Once the song ended the room gave support and they headed back to their table,
“I didn’t realize you had such bad stage fright.” Ginny’s hand had reclaimed its spot on his back.
“I didn't either.” Harry ran a hand through his hair. “But I was starting to loosen up by the end.”
Ginny beamed. “You were great! I’m guessing it was first time nerves at the start.” She kissed his cheek. “I still say you have a great voice.” She looked at her watch. “I want to stay until that bloke does Bohemian Rhapsody, but after that we can go back to your place…” She trailed off, allowing the words to speak for themselves.
Then she cleared her throat and stood. “I’m going to use the loo. Can you order us a plate of chips? I’m famished.”
“What else is new,” Harry teased, standing as well.
They walked in seperate directions. Harry leaned against the bar and ordered their snack. As he waited for his change, he perused the song menu. One song caught his attention, a song he and Ginny had both fallen in love with the moment they’d heard it.
Before he could talk himself out of it, he placed his and Ginny’s names down again, for one final song.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“Who do you think came up with the idea of chips, anyways?” Ginny asked as she bit into another fried stick of potato.
“Someone who knew what they were doing.” Harry’s attention was split between the man singing Bohemian Rhapsody and Ginny. He knew they were next, which only made his stomach flip flop. Maybe he was too impulsive….
“I’m surprised this guy is doing such a good job,” Ginny mused, gesturing to the performer. “How can his lungs handle all those different parts?”
“No idea.” Harry started to twist a chip in between his fingers.
“Are you alright?” Harry looked away from the small stage to see Ginny’s concerned face. “You look like you might vomit.”
“I’m fine.”
“You know,” Ginny said as scooted her chair closer to his. “I hate that phrase. What’s bugging you, Potter?”
The man on stage sang the last line, his volume dropping to a stage whisper.
Any way the wind blows
The crowd applauded enthusiastically.
Ginny stood up from her chair and offered Harry a hand. “Ready to go?”
“Harry and Ginny are our final couple of the night,” the barman called loudly.
“Yeah, ready to give this another go.” Harry took her hand and walked up to the stage.
“Harry?” Ginny was clearly confused. To be fair, he would have been, too. She took the microphone he handed her without argument, but she was watching him questioningly.
“Trust me.” Harry placed a soft kiss on her cheek as the screen lit up, displaying the first verse.
I found a love for me
Darling just dive right in
Harry could hear Ginny’s intake of breath as she recognized the song. They had been lazing about Harry’s flat, listening to the Muggle radio Harry had bought, when they had heard this song for the first time. They had both listened in silence on the sofa. Harry had held her close, with his back resting on the armrest and Ginny’s head lying right over his heart.
It had become one of his fondest memories. They hadn’t needed words, both so comfortable just being with one another. Based on the way Ginny was looking at him now, Harry knew she felt the same way.
But darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own
And in your eyes you're holding mine
Harry kept his eyes locked on Ginny’s. He knew the words by heart, he didn’t need the screen. The words were just an expression of how he felt for her. Though he knew people were watching them, Harry didn’t care this time. All he could think of was how perfect Ginny’s eyes were. They way they lit up when excited or the way they bore into his from across a room…. the way she was looking at him now...
When you said you looked a mess, I whispered underneath my breath
But you heard it, darling, you look perfect tonight
As the music took a moment to transition, Harry leaned in and kissed her. He couldn’t resist. The screen changed from blue to pink, signaling that it was the woman’s part. Ginny momentarily broke their intense gaze to double check the words.
Well, I found a man stronger than anyone I know
He shares my dreams, I hope that someday we'll share a home
I found a love to carry more than just my secrets
To carry love, to carry children of our own
Harry took her hand, and rubbed his thumb across the palm. Even though it was someone else’s lyrics, Harry wanted everything she sang to be true. He wanted to be the one she shared a home with and the one she would whisper secrets to.
Maybe it was too soon, but it just felt so right.
The final line brought their voices together, high and low tones working in harmony.
You look perfect tonight
Applause broke out across the room, drawing Harry back to a world where more than just Ginny existed. In a slightly numb haze, they walked off the stage, back to their old table. Harry kept his hand in Ginny’s, not ever wanting to relinquish their contact.
Neither spoke as they collect themselves to leave the bar, both lost in their own minds. It wasn’t until they were halfway down the main street, back towards the Muggle tube station, that Ginny spoke. “Why do you do things like that to me, Harry James?”
Harry looked over at her. She was staring at him with a look that could have burned. “What do you mean?”
She moved their still conjoined hands up to her lips and kissed the back of his. “You’re an old romantic soul, Harry. You wouldn’t guess it by looking at you, but…” She tucked her body in close, wrapping her arm around his, all the while keeping their hands joined. “You did that for me.”
“I’d do anything for you, Gin.” Harry placed his lips to the crown of her head.
“Anything?” Ginny whispered coyly.
“I’ll be more than happy to prove it once we get home,” Harry quipped.
They moved in a content silence, their destination only a few blocks away (a deserted alley by Paddington station where Disapparating would be easy to conceal).
“Thank you.” Ginny’s voice was soft. “For tonight.”
Harry didn’t verbalize his thoughts. Instead, he placed another kiss to the top of Ginny’s head, as they turned into the darkened backstreet ready to be alone together for the rest of the night.
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“Shoul dn’t I be the nervous one?” Ginny asked, her tone dripping with suppressed humor.
Harry glared at his cheerful girlfriend. “I know my parents, they’re gonna love you.”
“So what’s the issue?”
“They’re gonna love you so much they’ll bring out the embarrassing baby photos.”
Ginny couldn’t hold back her mirth any longer. She let out a snort. “Oh, I hope so. I do love me a good bath picture.”
Harry groaned. “Don’t encourage them. Mum always said I was adorable with my little bubble beards.”
“Well, when you put it that way.” Ginny moved her hand up and gripped the door knocker to the Potter family cottage. “I’m definitely asking for a trip down memory lane.” She let the intricate metal crash onto the wood twice, while Harry let his head fall onto her shoulder, still moaning about the injustice.
The door swung wide after a short minute revealing who could only be Harry’s father. Though he had different eyes and grey littered his dark hair, James Potter could have been Harry’s twin. They both had the same chin, thin mouth (one of Ginny’s favorite features on Harry), and almost identical messy locks.
“Hello!” James clapped his hands together. “You must be Ginny. Come in.”
As she entered (Harry’s head still on her shoulder, moving behind her like a puppy), James offered his hand.
Ginny smiled as she took it. “I see my reputation precedes me. All good things, I hope.”
“Only the best.” James winked at her. “Now if you’ll follow me I’ll introduce you to my wife, who has the best embarrassing stories about Harry.”
Harry groaned louder as Ginny laughed and said (with too much enthusiasm for Harry’s liking). “Then you must lead the way, kind sir!”
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
“So then Harry jumped on to Sirius’ back and told him to, and I quote, ‘mush!’” The room filled with the sound of laughter and crackling wood. The Potters and one Weasley had eaten dinner (a fine roast provided by Lily) and had retreated into the sitting room for tea, which was when Sirius had arrived.
Harry had known (at least subconsciously) that his parents and Ginny would hit it off, but to see it in full swing was amazing. Ginny and his mother seemed to adore talking to one another, and it was brilliant that James couldn’t stop laughing at all of Ginny’s jokes. And Sirius...
“I still don’t know why you’re dealing with the lesser model,” Sirius had commented at least five times that night. “You’re wasted on him, love. Come run away with me.” The over-the-top wink he’d always concluded with was just one of the many ways Harry knew Sirius was joking; he would never hurt his godson like that.
Still, it was clear that Sirius had fallen under Ginny’s enchantment as well.
Harry, for his part, couldn’t take his eyes off Ginny (his own personal redheaded goddess, as he referred to her in his own mind). She was able to simultaneously stand toe-to-toe with two of the infamous marauders and help his mother in the kitchen-- and although baking wasn’t Ginny’s favorite pastime, he’d learned she could make a mean treacle tart.
“He even dug his heels into my sides!” Sirius’ bark like laugh was the most exuberant in the room. “I had no choice but the gallop through the yard.”
“Oh, don’t pretend you didn’t love it.” Harry lightly hit his godfather’s shoulder. “Especially when I started throwing the stick.”
“Didn’t he try to walk through the doorway with the stick still in his mouth?” Lily asked, placing her now-empty tea cup down on the small table beside the loveseat she and James were sharing.
James snorted. “Oh yeah, and it was too large so he bounced backwards slightly.”
“That only happened once!” Sirius defended.
“That we know of,” Ginny supplied wickedly, making the Potters laugh. The large grandfather clock chimed in the corner signalling it was closer to midnight than anyone had realized.
“I think we should be heading out.” Harry glanced at the old clock face before standing, and offered Ginny his hand as he did so. “We both have practice tomorrow.”
Lily stood with her son. “Oh this was simply lovely. We should do it again.” She came over and hugged Ginny. “It was wonderful to meet you, Ginny. Harry didn’t do you justice.”
“I’m sure my mum is going to say the same thing.” Ginny couldn’t help but beam at the fellow redhead. “Thank you for having me, Mrs. Potter.”
“Lily,” Harry’s mother corrected. She broke their embrace and went over to her son, while James gave Ginny a parting hug.
“She perfect for you,” Lily whispered into her son’s ear. “Absolutely perfect.”
“I know.” Harry pressed a quick kiss to her cheek. “Trust me, I know.”
“So, we’ll see you after your next game?” James asked his son as he took his turn saying goodbye.
“Actually, I’m heading over to Ginny’s parents’ house to meet her family,” Harry explained. “Ginny has the day off and she thinks it’ll be hilarious if Puddlemere’s Seeker just shows up on her doorstep and sweeps her off her feet. In front of her six brothers, mind you.”
“It’s gonna be one of the funniest things to ever happen in the Burrow’s kitchen,” Ginny defended happily while Sirius moved in to wrap her in a hug. “Down boy.” She patted him on top of the head once he spread his arms wide.
James laughed, while Sirius made a hurt look. “Oh alright. If I must.” Ginny pretended to be upset as she pulled him into an embrace, but the light in her eyes told another story.
“We’ll see you soon though,” Harry told his mother as he wrapped an arm around Ginny’s waist to guide her towards the front door.
“We look forward to it.” James smiled at his son. He couldn’t help but admire how natural they looked. They were like two pieces of a puzzle that clicked perfectly as they completed the image on the box.
Harry and Ginny continued to say their goodbyes until the heavy wooden door closed behind them. Lily turned to her husband, small tears starting to form at the corners of her eyes. “Oh, James… our little boy.”
James wrapped his arm around her waist. and pressed a kiss to side of her head. “I know, Lily, I know.”
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