the_debt_of_time

"Why?"
"Because you are my friend, and I missed you. Because Harry loves you and that makes you family.
Courage and Craft, Ginny," she said proudly. "That's what it means to be a Potter. I know you were
looking forward to me going back to Hogwarts with you this year, but―"
"It's okay, Hermione. I get it. You already went back, and I don't think even you should be in
school for that long."
"You're a part of this family now. My sister." Mia said the words softly. "Harry's mate. And
even when you're away from us, you're a part of us."
Ginny hugged Mia, and when the pair returned to the drawing room, Remus sat up, apparently
aware that something had changed. Mia chuckled knowingly and waited until Sirius and Remus saw the
bracelet for themselves. When they did, they each eyed Mia and smiled in approval.
Sirius growled as another of his pieces was destroyed in the onslaught, and everyone
laughed. Mia turned to look at Ron, who should have been more interested than anyone in
the game if her memory served her well, but he sat on the opposite side of the room,
looking down into the empty glass in his hands.
"You all right?"
"What? Yeah, m'fine, 'Mione. I should probably head back to the Burrow, though.
Told Mum I'd stay for a few days," Ron said and stood up. "You comin', Gin?"
"I'll go back once I finish this game."
"I'll walk you out," Mia said to Ron as she slipped out of Sirius's grip. She turned
back and smiled reassuringly at him since he appeared to stress just a bit anytime she left
his sight. It would take time to cure him of the anxiety issues regarding her.
She and Ron walked silently toward the front door, and once it was shut behind
them and they stood on the porch she turned and sighed. "I know things are different."
"It's weird," Ron agreed. "I just saw you last night, and you were―"
"Different."
He frowned. "Different. Not a bad different, you're still you just... I'm not sure
what's changed."
"A lot."
He hesitated, worrying the toes of his shoes against the steps. "Are... Are we still
friends?"