Breaking the shadows

Quidditch try-outs:

1996

Wednesday September 22nd

I'm sitting in potions class, Ginny is sitting beside me as usual, she is nervous, after this class its time for her to go to quidditch try-outs, she's been begging to try-out for years, and now finally its time, I know she will do great, Snape ask her a few questions, but she is so nervous that she gets them wrong, even though she has answered the same questions correctly so many times before.
I carefully rip a piece of my page of and write: "You are going to do great <3."
I slip the note to Ginny, she writes back immediately: "What if I don't make the team?"
I rip a new piece of paper and write: "You will, don't worry."
We slip notes like this back and forth during the rest of class and oddly Snape doesn't say anything about it. He even dismisses the class early.
As I walk to class, I meet McGonagall and I ask: "What are we doing in class today?"

McGonagall: "Class is cancelled today, Dumbledore agreed to making the try-outs with audience for the first time in five years."

"Okay, thanks Professor."

Ginny and I walk to the changing rooms together and after Ginny are changed, we stand under the bleachers. The Quidditch pitch was abuzz with anticipation as the Gryffindor team prepared for their try-outs. Standing beside Ginny, I could feel the nervous energy radiating off her. I reached out and gently squeezed her hand, offering my silent support.

"Ginny, you got this" I reassured her, my voice filled with confidence. "You're an exceptional flyer, and you've worked so hard for this moment."

Ginny's eyes met mine, searching for reassurance. In that gaze, I saw a mix of doubt and determination. I took a step closer, wanting to infuse her with my belief in her abilities.

"I believe in you, Ginny" I said softly, my voice laced with affection. "You've grown so much as a player, and your talent shines brighter than ever."

A tender smile graced Ginny's lips, a blend of gratitude and love. Her hand found its way to my cheek, and I leaned into her touch, feeling the warmth and security it brought.

"Harlow, I'm so grateful to have you," Ginny whispered, her voice filled with emotion. "Your faith in me means the world."

I wrapped my arms around her, pulling her close, and our bodies melded together in a familiar embrace. In that moment, I could feel our connection deepen, the love between us pulsing with every beat of my heart.

With an unspoken understanding, Ginny closed the remaining distance between us, capturing my lips in a soft, tender kiss. It was a sweet affirmation of the love we share, a silent promise that no matter the outcome, we would face it together.

As our lips parted, I met Ginny's eyes, seeing a mix of vulnerability and determination. My fingers entwined with hers, offering a reassuring squeeze.

"I couldn't go this without you Harlow," Ginny whispers, her voice filled with love.

"You don't have to" I murmured; my voice filled with unwavering support. "No matter what happens, you're already a champion in my eyes."

Hand in hand, we walked toward the quidditch pitch, our bond unbreakable. Ginny was ready to take on the try-out, and I knew, with all my heart, that she has the strength and skill to succeed.

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Puplished: 20-05-23