Neville turned around, not sure who was calling him. There, waving, was a pretty young woman with brilliant red hair that could only belong to one person. “Ginny?”

She nodded, hurrying over and throwing her arms around him in a quick hug. “How are you? It’s been a couple years, hasn’t it? I heard you’re working up at the school now? Shame about Sprout retiring, but… oh my. I haven’t let you get a word in, have I?” She chuckled. “What brings you to Diagon Alley?”

Neville pointed at the apothecary shop behind him. “Had to pick up a couple things at Slug and Jiggers. You?”

Ginny rolled her eyes. “Visiting my stupid brothers. They’re never going to grow up.”

“Why bother when you’ve got a flourishing business that depends on the immaturity of people?”

She shrugged. “You’ve got a point. Anyway, what do you say to a drink at the Leaky Cauldron? I’d prefer Rosmerta’s, but…”

“That sounds lovely.”

Ginny sipped at her mulled mead. “So, you’re teaching up at the school now, right?”

Neville nodded. “Yeah, Herbology. I love it, absolutely love it.”

“Sprout was head of Hufflepuff too, wasn’t she? Who’s doing that?”

“Um… New potions prof. Acon’s his name. I guess he was a Hufflepuff two years ahead of Ron and me.” Nevill took a drink. “How is Ron, anyway?”

“Eh, he’s Ron. Causing trouble. Works up at the ministry now that they’ve all come to their senses and he doesn’t feel compelled to hate them.”

“See much of Harry these days?”

Ginny frowned. “Not as much as I’d like. I worry about him. Last I saw him was oh... 5 months ago? About Christmas time anyway. He never misses Christmas at the Burrow. Rushed out the day after though. He was supposed to stop by and see Mum last month, but couldn’t make it. Sent Hedwig with a note.”

Neville nodded, looking at Ginny, who was staring into her mead. She was really quite radiant, even in the dim light of the Cauldron. “So what about you? It’s been a couple years since I’ve seen you, can I expect any young Weasleys through my classes?”

Ginny looked up. “Hmm? Young… oh no. Not from me. Not anytime soon. Not married. Not even seeing anyone, truth be told. Bill and Fleur have a couple though, should be coming to Hogwarts in a couple years.”

Not seeing anyone. That was surprising. He’d have thought Ginny could have any number of men.

“And you?”

Neville shook his head with a laugh. “Nope. Same here. Afraid Herbology profs aren’t the most sought-after chaps in the world…”

They both started laughing, ignoring the scowls from the neighboring tables.

“Ha ha ha… well, I’m afraid I have to get going. Have to pick up a couple more things for Mother.” She paused. “I’ve had a lot of fun. We should do this again sometime. End of term’s coming up before too long, right?” Neville nodded. “Right. We should celebrate it when it comes along. Let me know.” She kissed him on the cheek and walked out, leaving him waving dazedly.