Mine Forever ( a Harmione fanfic )

Chapter 16

The group followed George closely as he led them through the dimly lit shop. The walls, lined with vibrant products, were just out of sight, and the anticipation was palpable. The atmosphere buzzed with the energy of the Weasley clan, their usual banter filling the space as they moved forward.

"George, are we walking into one of your pranks?" Ron quipped, his voice tinged with mock suspicion. "Because if I end up with another Bang-Bang-Boom situation, I'm blaming you."

George turned slightly, a mischievous grin spreading across his face. "Ron, my dear brother, I would never... well, at least not today. There's too much at stake."

"Good to know," Ginny chimed in, her tone playful. "But I'm keeping my wand at the ready, just in case."

Harry chuckled, his arm around Hermione as they continued to walk. "You know, George, I don't think you've ever needed a special occasion to prank any of us."

George laughed softly as they neared the front of the shop. "True, but today is different. Today, it's all about family." He stopped near the entrance and peeked through the blinds. "And by the looks of it, we've got quite the crowd waiting outside."

The group exchanged curious glances as George turned back to them. "Before we let the public in, I want the shop to be open to all of you first. After all, you're my family—and that includes you guys too, Harry and Hermione."

Harry, touched by George's words, patted him on the back. "Thanks, George. That means a lot."

George smiled, then turned to Harry. "Harry, since you were the one who funded this shop in the first place with your Triwizard winnings, it's only fitting that you do the honors and light up the chandelier."

The room fell silent as everyone stared at George in surprise.

"I didn't know that," Bill said, raising an eyebrow at Harry.

"Neither did I," Percy added, clearly impressed.

Harry looked slightly embarrassed. "It was just something I wanted to do for Fred and George. They deserved it. I wanted them to bring laughter into the world and I wanted nothing to do with that money from the Tri-Wizard tournament. So, it seemed only fitting these two recieve it..." Harry continued earning a loving look from everyone around and a hand squeeze from Hermione. 

"Well, we're glad you did," George said, his voice softer now. "Go on, mate."

Harry pulled out his wand and, with a swish, cast the spell. The chandelier above them burst into light, illuminating the entire shop. The once dim space was now bright, revealing the colorful chaos that was Weasleys' Wizard Wheezes. The group gazed around in awe, taking in the sight.

"It's amazing, George," Hermione whispered, squeezing Harry's hand.

"Feels just like the old days," Ron added, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

George led them to the middle of the room, where a large cloth-covered display stood. "Mum, Dad, I want you to do the honors here."

Mr. and Mrs. Weasley stepped forward, and with a shared glance, they pulled the cloth away. Underneath was a statue of Fred, his trademark mischievous grin plastered on his face. As they watched, the statue waved and pulled a rabbit out of his ear, causing a ripple of laughter mixed with tears.

Mrs. Weasley couldn't hold back her tears, her sobs filling the room as Mr. Weasley wrapped his arms around her. George, his voice thick with emotion, spoke to the statue, "I hope you like it, Fred. This shop is still as much yours as it ever was."