A/N: You guys had some great questions- we've posted the first interview at the end of this chapter. Next Saturday, we'll have an interview with Frankie and Will!
You don't see Hannah this chapter, we're afraid- but you do get to see quite a bit of the Potters and the Malfoys. Also next chapter… RJ's guilt overcomes him and he sends Alexa a letter confessing a certain something…
As always, please review- and make sure to get your questions in to Frankie and Will before FRIDAY, September 29th!
"At least Andrew's a good bloke," Harry said. "I like him a lot. He's good to my baby."
"Much better than Sean," Ethan said thoughtfully. "Or Peter."
"Sean wasn't all bad," Hermione said. "And she's friends with Peter again."
"Sean was a bit shady," Harry said. "What? He was!"
"He was not," Hermione argued. "He was a very nice young man."
"I happen to be very good at reading people," Harry said condescendingly.
"So am I," Hermione told him. "He was very good to our little girl."
"You should have seen the way he looked at her when they were on the beach," Harry argued. "Right, Ethan?"
"Any guy would," Maddie interjected. "Saffy's a beautiful girl. And Andrew looks at her much the same way."
"I agree with Dad," Ethan said. "Saffy shouldn't be able to date until she's 21."
Maddie and Hermione looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
"I suggest you bring that up to her next time you see her and see how well that goes over," Hermione said to her son.
"I think he'd be getting another Howler," Maddie said with a grin.
Hermione giggled. "You gonna follow this philosophy when you and Maddie have a little girl?"
"You will," Harry said. "Mark my words."
"Madeline Junior is not going to date ever," Ethan said smugly. "In fact, Mads...we should look into a tower with a fire-breathing dragon...."
"Madeline Junior?" Maddie rolled her eyes again. "Honestly Ethan..."
"What?" Ethan asked her. "What do you want to name our little girl?"
"Well," Maddie said. "I've always loved the name Kiera..."
Hermione smiled. "That's a beautiful name, Maddie."
"You mean you don't want to name our firstborn Dolly?" Ethan pretended to be shocked.
"No, that name's officially retired," Maddie said laughing.
Ethan shook his head. "You used to name everything Dolly."
"Hello?" Maddie asked. "I was four years old, Ethan."
"You were an adorable four year old," Hermione said. "Even if my son didn't think so."
"Mum, she used to go around insisting we were going to get married and that a Cornish pixie was our baby," Ethan pointed out.
"She also used to say she was going to marry you and she did," Hermione reminded him.
"He was playing hard to get," Maddie said smiling at her husband.
"Yeah, yeah." Ethan reached for her hand.
"So, we're okay?" Maddie asked him.
"Of course," Ethan replied.
"Welcome back from the doghouse," Harry teased Ethan.
"No sofa for you tonight," Maddie joked.
"The dreaded sofa," Harry groaned. "It's been a long time since I've been relegated to one of those."
"That I find hard to believe," Ethan said dryly as he helped himself to more bacon.
"I'm the perfect husband," Harry said winking at Hermione. "She can't stay angry with me for long."
"I let him think that," Hermione answered.
"We're still having these slight disagreements about where to put things," Maddie confided.
Hermione nodded knowingly. "You should have heard the rows Harry and I had about that bloody chair of his..."
Harry shared a knowing grin with his son. Aside from Robert, Ethan was the only other person that knew the fate of Harry's favourite chair.
"What did you do with the chair?" Maddie asked.
"Convinced him that it was completely hideous and he gave it away," Hermione replied.
"Yeah," Harry took a sip of his mimosa. "Gave it right away."
"And you have to admit that it really was the best idea," Hermione said. "It didn't really go with our decor."
"Not at all," Harry shook his head solemnly, making Ethan choke on his eggs.
Maddie patted Ethan's back. "Ethan----"
"Went down the wrong pipe," Ethan wheezed.
Hermione looked at her son and then at her husband. "Harry---is there something you've been keeping from me?"
"Of course not," Harry said innocently.
Hermione folded her arms and levelled her gaze at him. "Harry James Potter."
"That would be me," Harry grinned at her, making Maddie laugh.
"You're not very funny," Hermione said. "Spill your guts."
"I don't know what you're talking about," Harry proclaimed. He hadn't kept that chair throughout their marriage only to divulge its whereabouts now.
"Ethan," Hermione said turning her attention to her son. "What is your father hiding from me?"
"Don't look at me," Ethan held his hands up. "I don't know a thing."
"Fine," Hermione said leaning close to her husband so she could whisper in his ear. "Until you tell me, you're dethroned."
Harry only smirked at her in reply.
"I could last a lot longer than you," Hermione whispered.
"I don't even think I want to know what you two are whispering about," Ethan cut in.
"No you don't," Hermione said curtly. "But your father knows I mean business."
Harry only shook his head. "If you say so."
"Try me," Hermione said.
"As fun as this is," Ethan interrupted again. "Should we finish this before it all gets cold?"
"Of course," Hermione said buttering her croissant. "This really is a great meal, you two."
"Thanks," Maddie said. "I got the croissants from this new bakery just down the road."
They finished their meal and Hermione knew that the newlyweds would probably want to be alone. "We'll have to have you both over for dinner some night soon."
"Sounds like a plan," Ethan agreed. "I'll owl you with my free evenings this week."
Hermione gave them each a hug. "I really do love what you've done with the place."
"Thanks," Maddie said happily. "We wanted it to be as homey as you and Harry had it while living here."
"You really have," Hermione said. "You made it your own."
Ethan hugged his mother. "Don't be too hard on dad. It's an inside joke we have."
"You know how I hate not knowing something," Hermione said.
"I know," Ethan said. "Saf's the same way."
Hermione laughed. "Well, I think I'll have a little fun with your dad."
"I'll spill the beans if you get too mean," Ethan teased.
"Come on, Hermione," Harry said reaching for his wife's arm. "Let's go home."
Ethan and Maddie waved as they left. "I'll clean up," Ethan told his wife.
"That sounds like a plan," Maddie said. "I'm going to take a nice bubble bath."
"Hmmm..." Ethan said. "Maybe I'll join you after I'm finished..."
"If you want," Maddie said grinning at him.
Ethan put his arms around her. "I am sorry for being a prat earlier."
"It's okay," Maddie said relaxing in his arms. "I might have overreacted."
Ethan pressed his lips to her forehead. "Love you so much," he said huskily.
"I love you too," she whispered. "Even when you are being a prat."
Ethan tipped her face back and sealed his lips over hers.
"Mmmmmmm," Maddie said softly when they pulled apart. "I like making up with you."
"Go on," he said with a grin. "Go get in that bath and I'll meet you there in less than ten minutes."
"Make it five and you've got a deal," Maddie grinned.
Ethan gave her another kiss. "Deal," he answered.
Maddie looked at him seductively over her shoulder. "I'll see you upstairs, Mr. Potter."
Ethan shook his head as he watched her go, and then scrambled to clean the kitchen up as fast as he could.
By the time, he came upstairs; his wife had filled the bathtub with bubbles and lit some candles. She was lying in the tub with her hair up in a sloppy bun.
"Madam," he said with a saucy grin. "May I join you now?"
Maddie opened her eyes and grinned at him. "We always have room for you, sir."
"Just what I like to hear," Ethan undressed himself and got into the tub with her.
"This is nice," Maddie said closing her eyes again.
"Yeah," Ethan leaned against the opposite side and just looked at her for a few moments.
"I just feel so decadent," Maddie said with her eyes still closed.
Ethan smiled and ran his hands over her smooth leg.
"Oooh," Maddie cooed.
"Like that?" he asked with a grin.
"It's nice," Maddie replied, her eyes still closed.
"Only nice?" he asked. "Allow me to make it better..."
Maddie giggled. "Ethan, I was only....ooooooooh."
He used his hand to make her body arch out of the water. "This is a nice view," he said lasciviously.
"Ethan," Maddie said breathlessly. "Wow..."
"Mmmhmmm..." he said, his eyes darkening.
Ethan went underwater and what he did next made her gasp and grab the edge of the tub for support.
"ETHAN!" she nearly screamed.
Ethan emerged from the water a few moments later with a smug grin on his face. "Was that just nice?"
Maddie shook her head wordlessly.
Ethan gave her a kiss. "I thought you'd like that."
"Oh, very much," she nodded, still breathless.
"I love you, Madeline Molly," Ethan said nuzzling her neck.
"I love you too Ethan James," Maddie ran her soapy hands over his face.
"Even when I'm being a prat and you're being bossy?" Ethan asked impishly.
"Even then," she said, giving him a kiss.
"We should fight more often if it leads to things like this," Ethan said smiling at her.
"I think we could do this without the fighting," Maddie laughed. "I know I certainly don't need an excuse."
Ethan chuckled. "That's what I love to hear."
Maddie pulled him down on top of her again. "Make love to me," she whispered in his ear.
Ethan kissed her. "Whatever Maddie wants, Maddie gets..."
"That's what I love to hear," she grinned as the water sloshed over the side of the tub.
She gasped as he entered her and Ethan smiled down at her. "That's what I like to hear."
"Ethan," she breathed his name out.
"Mads," Ethan said against her skin as they began to move together.
"You... are.... so good... at this..." she gasped.
"You're not bad, either," Ethan grinned.
"Just not bad?" she opened her eyes as her hair slid out of the bun and into the water.
"You're," Ethan said in between kisses. "Bloody.... fantastic."
Maddie lifted her body against his as the passion between them grew more and more intense.
Ethan thrust into her one last time. "Maddie........"
She tried to say his name but could only cry out as pleasure washed over her entire body.
Ethan smiled lazily at her. "That was amazing."
Maddie nodded. "It always is," she said softly. "Always..."
"Always," Ethan agreed. "Let's go to bed. I really am knackered now."
"In the middle of the day?" she asked, laughing. "Maybe a little kip would be nice. I think Frankie wanted us to come out for dinner with them tonight."
Ethan got out of the tub and grabbed a towel for Maddie. "Sounds good."
"Thank you," Maddie kissed him. "She's so excited about adopting Hannah... I think she wants to talk our ears off about it."
"Our little Frankie has finally grown up," Ethan said grabbing a towel for himself as well.
Maddie laughed. "I think it's lovely what she wants to do for that little girl."
"I do too," Ethan said reaching for his discarded shirt, but finding that Maddie had gotten to it first. "Mads---"
"I need it," she pouted at him.
Ethan shook his head as he grabbed his boxer shorts from the floor. "Of course. Silly me."
"Besides," Maddie eyed him up and down. "I love looking at your... physique."
Ethan stood up and looked at her for a few moments before picking her up. "Okay, Maddie. You asked for it."
"ETHAN!" she shrieked, laughing.
"You've done it now," Ethan said carrying her into their bedroom.
"What?" she asked, still giggling.
"You just treated me like a piece of meat," Ethan said setting her down on the bed. "You should be ashamed of yourself!"
"Uh oh," Maddie said. "Am I to be punished?"
Ethan's eyes darkened. "Yes, to the fullest extent of the law."
"Oh no," Maddie ran her index finger over her lower lip. "I've been a very... very bad girl..."
"And you were such a good girl too," Ethan said thoughtfully. "What happened?"
"I got corrupted," Maddie said innocently.
"Who would do such a thing?" Ethan asked as he settled down beside her. "Hmm?"
"I don't know..." Maddie widened her eyes and pushed her hair back.
"Someone had to do it," Ethan said giving her a kiss. "I'm lucky that it was me."
"Yes..." Maddie wound her arms around him. "So do I still get punished?"
"Oh yes," Ethan said huskily.
"Good," she leaned in again.
*** *** ***
Julie was facing a very busy time in her life. Her work at Hogwarts kept her there much later than she actually wanted to stay at school, and she was doing her best to help her youngest daughter with her reading. Katie had started a few special classes at school but still resisted doing the amount of reading that she should have been.
Julie did enjoy seeing her sister almost every day, and they met for lunch at least once a week where they caught each other up on everything that was happening.
Currently, she was doing some last minute grading before she closed up her office for the evening. A knock on the door startled her, and she thought perhaps one of her students needed something. "Come in!" she called.
"Did you forget me?" Oliver asked with a grin as he walked into her office.
"What?" Julie asked. "Did we have a meeting tonight?"
"We did," Oliver said giving her his most stern look.
Julie hurriedly turned to her calendar. "Oh bugger..." she said. "I'm so sorry..."
Oliver leaned against the door. "We were going to discuss the rash of detentions, remember?"
"Right," Julie said. "I really am sorry. I've just been really preoccupied lately."
"It's okay," Oliver reassured her. "How's your youngest doing?"
"All right," Julie said. "She hates being in special classes."
"I'm sure it's not easy for her, but it really is the best thing," Oliver said thoughtfully.
Julie nodded. "She thinks being in a special class makes her friends think she's stupid."
"Her good friends won't," Oliver said. "Surely she knows that."
"That's what Nick and I have been telling her," Julie said as they sat down in the chairs in front of her desk.
"For what it's worth, I think she's a lucky kid to have you as a mum," Oliver said smiling at her.
Julie smiled. "Thanks Oliver. It's good to hear that from someone outside the family from time to time."
"I don't know where I'd be if I didn't have you here to show me the ropes," Oliver said. "So it's a little bit of payback."
Julie laughed. "So what are we going to do about these detentions?"
"I was thinking perhaps we could let Snape supervise them all," Oliver said dryly. "That would show those girls..."
Julie nodded. "I daresay your popularity has made detention quite fashionable."
Oliver shook his head. "You know, some of my mates warned me about this, but I thought they were just taking the Mickey, but now that I'm here..."
"For what it's worth, despite the girls flocking to your side, I think you're doing a great job as Headmaster," Julie said sincerely.
Oliver's cheeks reddened a bit. "You're not just saying that because I'm your boss?"
"Hardly," Julie replied. "If I wasn't intimidated by Albus Dumbledore, you aren't going to do the trick," she teased.
Oliver laughed heartily. "I think I need to have a long talk with him on how to be more intimidating. I try to look stern, but for some reason, that makes the girls...how can I say this..."
"Turn into blushing, stammering... schoolgirls?" Julie suggested.
"In a word, yes," Oliver said with a groan.
"You rugged, good looking blokes have it so hard," Julie deadpanned.
"Yes, it's a hard life," Oliver played along.
Unbeknownst to either of them, two Slytherin girls were standing just outside Julie's office listening to every word.
Marianne Baxter looked at her friend. "Could they be ANY more obvious?" she asked with a smirk.
Annie Lawlor rolled her eyes. "She's such a hypocrite."
"I know right," Marianne agreed. "I mean, I knew as soon as we saw him heading for her office that they'd be going at it."
"And he is always staring at her in the Great Hall," Annie whispered peering around the doorway to see Oliver touching Julie's arm.
"I wish we had a camera," Marianne whispered back. "Even though all those Gryffindor nerds are going to just DIE when we spread this around."
"It would be nice to wipe that smug look off Saffron Potter's face," Annie agreed. "I cannot stand her!"
"She acts like she's queen of the school," Marianne said. "I'd love to knock her down a peg or two... or ten."
Annie covered her mouth to stifle her giggles. She couldn't agree more.
"Listen, I have a friend who has written quite a few books about learning disabilities," Oliver told Julie. "If you'd like, I can have him contact you."
"That would be lovely," Julie said. "Thank you so much Oliver."
Oliver stood up, as did Julie. "Don't let it get you down, Jules. It will get better, I promise."
"I hope so," Julie said. "For now I'll have to take your word. She seems to be able to talk to Nick about this more than me for some reason."
"Just remember if you need someone to talk to, I'm here," Oliver said giving her a hug.
Marianne and Annie exchanged knowing looks.
"I will," Julie nodded. "I do have one favour to ask of you..."
"Which is?" Oliver asked.
"Can I please be there if you decide to make Snape in charge of detentions?" Julie joked.
Oliver laughed. "You can have a front-row seat, Jules."
"Now that'll make my day," Julie replied. "Thanks Oliver."
"I'll let you get on with your work," Oliver said smiling at her. "Perhaps we can talk more over breakfast?"
"Sure," she agreed. "I look forward to it."
The girls scrambled for a hiding place as Oliver left Julie's office. They stayed hidden until they heard Julie bustling about getting her belongings. A few moments later, they heard her leave and Marianne smirked. "I give them two weeks before they're shagging."
"I say one," Annie countered. "They're practically going at it already."
Marianne rubbed her hands together. "What do you say we start spreading the word?"
Annie grinned wickedly. "I've been told it's what we do best..."
"It truly is a gift," Marianne said smugly. "Now, where to begin?"
*** *** ***
Through Oliver's help, Julie and Nick had found Katie a special tutor for her reading. The younger girl wasn't pleased she'd have to do extra schoolwork but Julie had assured her daughter it was only until she could catch up with the rest of her class.
They were scheduled to meet with the woman that evening and Julie was currently watching her daughter finish up her dance class.
"Great job girls," Cho clapped her hands. "Remember, recital rehearsal is in a few weeks, and everyone has to be here!"
This was the only class that Katie actually enjoyed and she was going to do whatever she could to prevent having to go see that boring woman and talk about boring books.
"I know you'll get the lead part," Caroline told her friend. "You're the best in the whole class, Katie."
"Thanks," Katie said. "I know I will too."
Caroline practised the turn again and tried not to stumble this time.
"Just hold your arms like this," Katie demonstrated as Mia stood back and watched.
"Okay," Caroline copied Katie. "How's that?"
"Better," Katie answered, turning her back and cutting Mia out of the conversation. She'd gotten used to the blonde hanging around but she still didn't like her all that much.
Caroline smiled gratefully at her best friend. "Thanks, Katie."
"Katie," Julie called. "We have to go, sweetheart."
"Ten more minutes, Mummy," Katie called over her shoulder. "I need to help Caroline."
"Katie Rose," Julie said more firmly.
Katie rolled her eyes.
"Its okay, Katie," Caroline said. "We're going to surprise Daddy at work so I should go and get changed."
Katie's eyes narrowed as she saw Mia's best friend bracelet on Caroline's wrist. "Where's your necklace?"
"The clasp broke and my mummy was going to fix it after she fed Adam," Caroline told her.
"Oh," Katie said. "I thought you lost it."
Caroline shook her head. "I'd never lose it, Katie. I love my necklace."
Katie smiled at her. "I'll see you later Caroline."
Caroline hurried off to her mother's office in the back with Mia in tow, something that didn't go unnoticed by Katie. Because of this stupid meeting, she was going to be left out again. She walked over to the benches where her mother was sitting and sat down quietly, taking off her slippers.
"You dance so beautifully out there sweetheart," Julie said encouragingly.
"Thanks," Katie said pulling on her jumper. "I think I'm going to get the lead part in the recital."
"I'm so proud of you," Julie said.
"I'm going to be famouser than Daddy," Katie said smugly. "Even famouser than Aunt Chiaki."
"If you put your mind to it you can do anything," Julie said. "Daddy's meeting us outside and we'll go to Maya's together."
Katie looked around to make sure no one could hear her mother. "I don't want to go, Mummy."
"Katie," Julie sighed. "We talked about this, remember?"
Katie slung her dance bag over her shoulder and got to her feet. "Fine! I'll go but I don't have to like it!"
"You might change your mind," Julie pointed out. "I've heard Maya is very, very nice. And you'll like to read once you--"
Katie's cheeks flamed bright red and she stalked out of the dance studio. She ran into her father's arms.
"What is it, sweetheart?" Nick asked giving her a hug.
"Mummy was talking really loud about me not being able to read," Katie said angrily. "Everyone could hear!"
Nick kissed her forehead. "I'm sure that's not true, sweetheart. And you can read, Katie."
"I know I can!" Katie exclaimed. "So why do I have to take more dumb classes?"
"Because you're having a little trouble," Nick said gently. "And we just want you to have the help you need." He saw his wife exit the dance studio and he smiled reassuringly at her. Nick knelt down in front of his daughter. "Sweetheart, I'll make a deal with you okay?"
"Another deal?" Katie asked warily.
Nick nodded. "If you don't like Maya after your first meeting, you don't have to go back to see her."
"I won't like her," Katie said resolutely.
"All I ask is that you give her a shot," Nick said squeezing her hand.
Julie kissed her husband hello. "Are we ready?" she asked.
"I think so," Nick said looking at Katie. "Right?"
Katie only shrugged.
Nick held her hand as they set off down the sidewalk. They were meeting Maya at her flat and it was only a couple of blocks from the studio.
Katie was all prepared not to like this woman- especially if it meant not having to go to extra school classes and read all the time. She set her face in a scowl as Nick rang the doorbell.
The door opened and a pretty girl with curly brown hair and glasses opened the door. She wore a floral print dress and a cardigan and she smiled warmly at them. "Hiya, you must be the Malfoys."
"I'm Nick," he held his hand out. "This is my wife Julie, and our daughter Katie."
"Hello, Katie," Maya smiled at her. "I'm Maya Rourke. That's a pretty leotard you have on. I heard you were quite the dancer."
Katie nodded wordlessly.
"Why don't you all come in?" Maya asked standing back to let them enter.
Nick tugged on his daughter's hand. "Come on Katie bear."
Katie followed her father inside and looked around at the small flat. It was about as small as her Uncle Ethan's old place.
"Can I get any of you something to drink?" Maya asked.
When Katie didn't answer, Julie smiled. "Katie usually likes to drink juice after her dance lesson."
Maya smiled. "I have apple, orange, pumpkin...what's your poison?"
"Poison?" Katie asked, alarmed.
"It's just an expression," Maya reassured her. "What would you like to drink?"
"Nothing," Katie muttered.
Maya nodded. "Fair enough. If you change your mind, you just let me know, okay?"
"It's nice of you to offer," Julie said. "Thank you."
"No problem," Maya said. "How about you have a seat?"
"Thanks," Nick said, sitting down. "We have copies of Katie's reports and letters from her teachers detailing the problems so far."
Maya took the file from Nick and set it aside. "What I'd really like to do first is talk to Katie and get to know her a little. Would that be alright, Katie?"
Katie shrugged. "I guess..."
Maya smiled. "How about you tell me a little bit about yourself first? What are some of your favourite things to do?"
"Dance," Katie answered. "Um... sometimes when my sister lets me help her with her art, I like to colour."
"That must be fun to help your sister," Maya commented.
"She's really good at drawing," Katie said, not even realising that she was opening up to this woman.
"I can't even draw stick figures," Maya confided.
Katie smiled. "I can't either."
"You know what I used to love to do when I was a kid?" Maya asked her. "I used to love to draw these things in my art class and bring them home to my parents and watch them try to guess what it was."
Katie giggled. "I never did that."
"Sometime I'll have to show you some of those and you can tell me if you can figure them out," Maya said grinning at her.
"Okay," Katie replied.
"And you and I have something else in common," Maya said motioning for Katie to look behind her. Katie turned and saw an old framed movie poster for Peter Pan. "Disney movies."
"Wow," Katie's eyes widened. "Tinkerbell!"
"My boyfriend gave that to me last Christmas," Maya said.
"You have a boyfriend?" Katie asked interestedly.
Maya nodded. "Sam. We've been together since Hogwarts."
"You went to Hogwarts?" Katie was awed. "Cool!"
Maya smiled. "I was a year ahead of your Uncle Ethan."
"He mentioned he knew of you," Julie said.
Maya looked conspiratorially at Katie. "You want to know a secret about your uncle?"
"Sure," Katie nodded eagerly.
Julie leaned forward, too. She was always looking for something to tease Ethan about.
"He asked me out once," Maya replied.
"He did?" Katie asked her eyes wide. "What did you say?"
Maya giggled. "Well, let's see...I was 16 and he was 15 and he came up to me in the library and ...I don't know if I should be telling you this...'
"It's okay," Katie wanted desperately to hear more.
"He swaggered over to my table," Maya continued. "And then he sat down and actually said...he was going to put me in detention because I'd stolen his heart..."
Nick guffawed. "Tell me he didn't..."
"I'm afraid so," Maya grinned. "But he's married now, isn't he?"
"Probably because he didn't use that line," Julie said laughing. "But yes, he is."
"I saw the picture in the paper," Maya said. "They make a lovely couple."
"Did you know my Aunt Maddie, too?" Katie asked.
"I knew of her, but she was at least four years under me," Maya replied.
Katie leaned back on the sofa.
"And what about school?" Maya asked. "What are your favourite subjects?"
Katie's smile drooped. "I don't really like anything."
"You have to have something," Maya prodded. "When I was in school, my favourite subjects were recess and lunch."
"Katie's quite good at maths," Nick said.
"I like numbers," Katie said quietly.
"That's very good," Maya said encouragingly. "Most of the kids I work with hate maths."
"It's much more fun than reading," Katie continued. "Numbers make sense. The words don't always..."
"Do they look backwards to you?" Maya asked her.
Katie nodded.
"If you'd let me, I'd like to help you," Maya said gently. "If we work on it, those words won't appear backwards. I can already tell you're one smart girl, Katie Malfoy."
"You...you can really help me?" Katie asked.
"If you'll let me," Maya smiled at her.
Katie looked at Maya. "And you won't tell anyone that you're helping me? I don't want anyone to know."
"It's not a bad thing to get help," Maya explained. "I promise, I won't make this seem like work to you, Katie."
Nick put his arm around Katie. "What do you say, sweetheart?"
"I guess," she said. "And I don't have extra homework to do?"
"You'll have to work on your reading," Maya told her.
Katie frowned.
"You'll grow to like it," Maya assured her.
"I suppose we could try it," Katie said quietly.
"I'm so glad to hear that," Maya smiled.
Julie kissed the top of Katie's head. "And we'll help you too, Katie. All of us."
"And Ashley won't take the mickey?" Katie asked.
"She wouldn't do that to you, Katie," Nick told her. "She'd help you."
"But if she does--" Katie began.
"We'll punish her," Nick finished. "But I don't think you'll have to worry about it."
"Okay then," Katie had to admit that she liked Maya. "I'll try."
"Fantastic," Maya said extending her hand to the girl. "And I'll tell you what on our first session, you can help me pick out a dress for this work do that Sam has."
"You want my help?" Katie asked, a smile growing on her face. "Really?"
"I can tell that you have a great fashion sense," Maya said admiringly. "And I need all the help I can get."
"Wow," Katie said. "That'll be really cool!"
"And would you be up for helping me pick out my accessories, too?" Maya asked.
"I'm really good at that," Katie agreed.
"Then I think we have a deal," Maya said smiling at her.
"She's good," Nick muttered to his wife.
Julie nodded. She made a mental note to thank Oliver for recommending her.
"So I'm thinking perhaps twice a week to start," Maya said. "We'll make sure this doesn't interfere with your dance classes, of course."
Katie smiled. "I'm trying to get the lead in our recital."
"Really?" Maya looked impressed.
"My best friend Caroline thinks I have a good chance," Katie said smugly.
"I'm sure she's right," Maya smiled at her.
"I think Tuesdays and Thursdays would be best," Julie said to Maya.
Maya opened a little book she had on the table and nodded. "Half past six is perfect."
"We should get going," Nick looked at his watch. "We appreciate you helping us out, Maya."
"I'm glad I can help," Maya smiled at them. "It was very nice to meet you, Katie Malfoy." she shook the young girl's hand.
"It's nice to meet you too," Katie said looking up at her.
"Well?" Nick asked his daughter after they'd left. "You like her, eh?"
"She seems okay," Katie said shrugging.
Julie nudged her. "You seemed to like her more than just okay..."
"I liked that she didn't want to just talk about reading," Katie admitted. "And she didn't treat me like a kid."
Nick nodded knowingly. "I really think she'll be able to help you, Katie Bear. And you know that's what your Mum and I really want."
"Just as long as no one knows," Katie said.
"Don't worry about that sweetheart," Julie took her daughter's hand. "Just concentrate on your reading."
"Okay, Mummy," Katie said worrying more about the recital than her tutoring.
Nick slid his arm around his wife. "How was your day?" he asked.
"Long," Julie admitted. "I have some essays to grade after dinner."
"It's almost the weekend," Nick said. "We'll have some time together soon."
Julie leaned against him. "I can't wait."
Nick kissed the side of her head.
"Can Caroline come over on Saturday?" Katie asked. "So we can practise our dance?"
"Sure," Julie replied. "If it's okay with her parents."
"Cool!" Katie said happily.
Nick picked her up and spun her around. "How that for a dance, Katie Bear?"
Katie laughed. "It's good, Daddy."
Nick kissed her cheek. "Okay, let's get home. I'm starving."
"I hope Greta made a big dinner," Julie said. "I'm pretty ravenous myself."
"She always does," Nick said with a laugh.
DD Cast Interviews: Saffron and Alexa
Heaven: *taps microphone* this thing on?
Amynoelle: I can hear you. I wonder if our guests can. Saffron? Alexa?
Saffron: Why are we using microphones?
Alexa: Maybe because they're in the States and we're here? It's probably the easiest way to communicate. This is so exciting!
Saffron: Yeah this is pretty cool. I heard you guys have questions for us?
Amynoelle: Yeah, but a comment first...we're sorry about all the drama we've put you through over the years. Well, not really sorry...we had to do it.
Saffron: I haven't had that much drama yet. I've got the perfect boyfriend, remember?
Amynoelle: *whispers to Heaven* she has no idea what we have in store for her...
Heaven: Shhh Amy! Don't let her hear you!
Amynoelle: Oooh, sorry! Right, um, Saffron...do you mind if I ask you a question first? Something that I've always been wondering? What is it like to be the daughter of two very high profile people?
Saffron: Well... it's been that way all my life. And my parents have been pretty cool for the most part. Sometimes it's weird when we go out and all these reporters and photographers are asking us dumb questions and taking pictures of us buying a jumper but I really haven't known things any other way.
Amynoelle: You've handled yourself quite well, if I do say so myself. Even though some people might call you a brat. You're a loveable brat and we've enjoyed watching you grow up.
Saffron: Why thank you! I happen to agree.
Alexa: *jokingly* don't get her started!
Heaven: Okay, okay... then I've got a question for you, Alexa. You and R.J. have taken your relationship to the next level and become intimate. While we know you love him, did the fear of maybe losing him help with your decision to go through with it or were you just ready?
Alexa: Wow...that's a big question. Um, well, I was really nervous about that because that is a HUGE step. But, I love him very much and I trust him with all my heart and soul. It happened a little sooner than I expected it to, but I have no regrets about our decision to become intimate. And I don't think I'm going to lose him. He's not the type who would have chucked me because I wanted to wait.
Saffron: We hope...
Alexa: Saffy...don't be so hard on him.
Heaven: That could actually lead into our next question. Saffron Grace Potter, did you ever fancy RJ?
Saffron: WHAT? You've got to be kidding me! *starts to laugh*
Alexa: They are like oil and water. I mean, that'd be like if Saffy's mum and RJ's dad were a couple! Could you imagine?
Heaven: No way! That just seems so wrong! That'd be like Saffron's father having a monster in his chest! Have you guys ever heard anything so ridiculous?
Saffron: You know, RJ brought that up one time and I thought it sounded stupid then too!
Amynoelle: And Saffron, how did you know that Andrew was the one for you? How was he different from Peter?
Saffron: I just knew, you know? I mean, Andrew was there, and I did fancy him a bit before everything with Peter happened. He was so sweet, and he's sooooooooooo gorgeous!
Amynoelle: Is it hard to be away from him? You miss him terribly...how do you cope?
Saffron: Well I have Lexie here. She's really the best friend a girl could have. And Beth and Mimi keep me occupied with their weird obsession with Professor Wood.
Alexa: And you guys only see a little of Beth and Mimi. Imagine what it's like living with them!
Heaven: No thanks- I have some friends who are strange enough as it is!
Amynoelle: Don't we all! And speaking of boyfriends, what drew you to your respective boyfriends and what keeps you drawn to them despite your distance?
Alexa: Well, for me...It's no secret that I've had a crush on RJ since I met him. And I never in a million years dreamed that he'd ever fancy me too.
Saffron: Do I have to explain it? Because Andrew's just perfect, totally perfect. How could anyone not be drawn to him? The distance sucks, but knowing I can see him on Hogsmeade weekends helps, and when I'm on holiday we spend as much time together as possible.
Alexa: It's the same for RJ and me. I'm really looking forward to the Christmas hols because we'll get to spend some quality time together. I am a little nervous about his team's Christmas party, but Saffy helped me pick out an outfit.
Saffron: She's going to look gorgeous! And if that slag Serena is there, she'll totally outshine her!
Alexa: Thanks, Saffy.
Amynoelle: Okay, girls. I have to mention a certain American boy...Gabriel Boyd.
Alexa: *blushes*
Saffron: Just so you guys know, she just turned REALLY red.
Amynoelle: Alexa, can you tell us just exactly what your feelings are toward Gabriel.
Alexa: Um, well...you've just put me on the spot. I-I really like him...as a friend. He was really nice to me when we met in Brighton and I guess we sort of connected because we had a lot in common but I mean, we're just friends. That's all. I know that's pretty boring, but that's how it is. Really. Absolutely. Yeah...
Saffron: *jokingly* Yeah...
Heaven: Yes and now Saffron, what is your view on what happened between Gabe and Alexa? Do you think they were to blame for what happened? Would you have supported them if they had gotten together? How would you have dealt with RJ in that case?
Saffron: I think when they kissed, RJ was confusing Lexie because he was never around and that slag was always where he was. And she and Gabriel had gotten close and it just happened. And if Lex is happy, then I'm happy for her, whether it's with Gabriel or RJ.
Alexa: Thanks, Saffy.
Amynoelle: Now, Alexa: When times were still a little rocky with RJ, did you have secret second thoughts about Gabe at any point?
Alexa: Um...
Saffron: *giggles*
Alexa: Is RJ going to hear this?
Amynoelle: Of course not...this is just four girls having a nice chat. Honestly...
Alexa: Okay...well maybe....in the back of my mind, I thought about what it might be like to be with Gabriel. But that's all it was....just a thought.
Heaven: He's pretty cute. And his dad is a world famous director...
Amynoelle: He is cute, but RJ has known her the longest and they are pretty solid.
Alexa: *looks quizzically at Saffron*
Saffron: I don't know what they're going on about...
Amynoelle *whispers to Heaven* eventually we're going to have to choose. And need I remind you that at one time we were going to put Allison with Josh...
Heaven: Heaven: Shhhh we can't talk about this yet!
Amynoelle: Sorry....I have a bit of a big mouth! You know that about me!
Heaven: it's okay. I'm sure Jude can appreciate that quality in you.
Amynoelle: *blushes* some might call me delusional...
Heaven: I'd rather be delusional than a follower.
Saffron: Are we still doing the interview? Cause Andrew just sent me an owl and I want to go read it...
Amynoelle: Okay, you're right. Sorry...this question was supposed to go just to Alexa, but I think you both could answer it. 'What would you do if someone very close to you, who you care for dearly (leave out family) lied to you on a very serious matter and you are having to face dire consequences for it?'.
Alexa: Well, I would hope that I would listen to that person and find out their reasons for lying to me. That's really a tough question. I don't really know how I would handle it. That would be an awful thing for someone to do. Saffy, what would you do?
Saffron: Beat them over the head.
Amynoelle: You know...I can see why people might be scared of you. You're brilliant, of course, but kind of scary...
Saffron: Thanks! I consider that a compliment.
Heaven: Saffron, you and I are of the same mind. I'd do the same thing. It can be quite therapeutic!
Amynoelle: Okay, before you two start planning your world domination, can we get back to the interview?
Heaven: This might be more fun...
Amynoelle: Alright, alright....Saffron...do you see marriage in your future with Andrew?
Saffron: Marriage? I'm only sixteen! I'm not getting married for a long, long time!
Amynoelle: But if you could look into the future like your sister-in-law, Maddie....do you see yourself with Andrew?
Saffron: I don't know... I mean, I'd love it, because he's my Andrew, but I don't know how things will change. I guess I'd say I hope so...
Heaven: Well for that matter- what's been your best date, or moment with Andrew?
Saffron: You want me to pick ONE time? *laughs* I guess it'd have to be that first kiss we had... or no... When we were in Brighton and we were snogging- wait that's no good, my dad walked in and we had our first fight after that. I know! The Hogsmeade weekend when he came to see me. That was the best day...
Alexa: I know this wasn't directed at me, but I think the most romantic thing that RJ's ever done for me was something recently actually...when he surprised me the other night at Hogwarts. I wasn't expecting him at all and ...he gave me that promise ring...I fell in love with him all over again!
Saffron: I'm not going to say a word about that...
Alexa: I know you thought it was a bad idea...
Saffron: For once, I'm just not going to say anything.
Amynoelle: Do you feel your relationship has gotten better since you and RJ got intimate? I mean, he writes a lot more and the two of you haven't had so many problems like before.
Alexa: We're definitely a lot closer. And he been more attentive, but I'd like to think it wasn't just because we're sleeping together now. I would like to think that he would be the same regardless. Things have changed between us and it's hard being apart like this. I mean, he's living out his dream right now and I'm very proud and supportive of that. But I do feel a little left out that I can't be there to share that with him. But the distance is going to be a test for us, but I think we're strong enough to make it work.
Saffron: To give the devil his due, RJ does love her a lot. And I don't think he'd purposely hurt her.
Amynoelle: You know, Saffron...you really didn't answer that question we posed to you earlier. I mean, at one time, you were considering what it would be like to be RJ's girlfriend...I mean you two did kiss a couple of times.
Saffron: Don't remind me!
Amynoelle: Sorry, I had to ask!
Saffron: It was all Ethan's fault. He told RJ about that and he had no right to! And I'll admit for like a day, I wondered what it would be like but it would never have lasted. Ever. Not like me and Andrew.
Amynoelle: And you had no idea that your best friend had a crush on him at all?
Saffron: Not until she told me she saw us kissing.
Alexa: I'm sorry for not telling you. I mean that's the only secret I've ever kept from you.
Saffron: It all worked out.
Amynoelle: This has been really fun, ladies. We're glad you're not that mad at us...yet.
Saffron: As long as I've got my Andrew I can't really be mad at anyone.
Heaven: Really...
Alexa: What was that look for? You guys are scaring me...
Heaven: You can see us? Wow this magic thing is cooler than I ever thought...
Alexa: It is, you two should try it some time.
Amynoelle: We can't! We're Muggles! Delusional and militant Muggles..
Heaven: Oh yeah... totally militant. Whatever!
Amynoelle: Oh, Saffron...I have something to ask you. How does it feel to have your father known as "Wizard McDreamy"?
Saffron: *laughs* maybe you should ask my mum
Amynoelle: We tried to...we even went to their house and knocked on the door, but they wouldn't answer. But we could hear them inside...
Heaven: Rabbits...
Saffron: I don't want to hear any more!
Amynoelle: Moving on.... is Emma Weasley as cute as she sounds?
Saffron and Alexa: Adorable!!!
Amynoelle: We just love her.
Heaven: I think everyone loves her. Especially when you see her with Ron. One of these days they're going to have an eating contest and I think Emma will win.
Amynoelle: She would...and then she'd give him a Magic Mud facial.
Everyone laughs.
Heaven: Well this has definitely been fun. Perhaps down the line we'll do it again! But I know you're eager to go read your letter, Saffron.
Alexa: And I think I need to go lay down...I've felt kind of queasy all day.
Heaven: That's not good! You should probably go see Madam Pomfrey!
Alexa: I will. I promise. Come on, Saffy.
Saffron: Okay... bye you guys!
Amynoelle: Bye, Lexie! Bye, Saffy! Behave yourselves. And jus remember...it's not personal....anything that happens is for storyline purposes only.
Heaven: SHHHHH!!!