A/N: Hey you guys! We're so glad a lot of you have been joining the community coolman made up for Last Dance. If you haven't, we're hoping you all will so we can get some fun discussions over there. Please go check it out here! Also make sure and check out Seamus and Lavender's interview at the end of the chapter. Next week will feature Cho and Neville!
Also- something we hope you guys will all read here. The things we are posting now have been written for quite awhile, which is why you may have an influx of a certain character and then not hear about them for awhile. We stay far ahead so that we're able to post these chapters twice a week for you guys! So when you guys ask for something in the next chapter, just realise it's already been written, but we do keep really good ideas in the back of our head and try to figure out places for them in future storylines!
Please enjoy, and of course, REVIEW! :D
"We do," Julie said touching his arm. "And you've been a great friend, Oliver."
"As have you," he said flushing as he looked away. "I meant to ask- how's your youngest doing?"
Julie grinned. "She's doing so much better. That specialist you recommended has done a world of good. She's been so patient with Katie."
"I'm glad to hear it," Oliver said.
"And to thank you," Julie said. "I was hoping you'd share my lunch with me."
"Did your housekeeper make that wonderful soup again?" Oliver asked with a grin.
"She did," Julie replied. "And homemade bread, too."
"You don't have to ask me twice," Oliver's grin got bigger. "I knew I came up here for a good reason."
Julie laughed. "And you're in luck. Class is over..."
"When do you take the Grindylow back?" Oliver asked as the third year students filed out and headed for the Great Hall.
"Hagrid's going to get him on his way back from the Great Hall," Julie explained.
"Funny," Oliver looked in the cage. "I know they're dangerous but they're almost cute."
"I've heard a few of the girls here say the same thing about you," Julie joked.
Oliver laughed. "I think that's what had some people worried when I became Headmaster."
"Your good looks are the bane of your existence," Julie said motioning for him to follow her into her office.
"It's tough being gorgeous," Oliver said with a straight face. "And Scottish. Being gorgeous and Scottish is a real curse."
"All that and modesty too," Julie said shaking her head. "I don't know how you cope."
"It's tough," Oliver kept his poker face. "But I manage..."
Julie rolled her eyes. "Someday, you should write a book about it."
Oliver grinned at her. "A bestseller."
Julie set a bowl of soup in front of him. "There you are."
"That smells absolutely wonderful," Oliver dug in.
Julie took her seat across from him and handed him a piece of bread. "So, I take it you're hiding out from Professor Sprout. Is she still trying to set you up with her niece?"
Oliver laughed. "Unfortunately. I don't think anyone understands when I say I like being a bachelor."
"So you've never been close?" Julie asked conversationally.
Oliver shook his head. "I think I've always been too committed to Quidditch, and now this job, to really concentrate on my love life."
"Well, I promise that I will not try and set you up," Julie said. "Though I do believe that there is someone out there for all of us."
"Like you and Nick Malfoy," Oliver smiled. "It's apparent you're his world, Julie."
"And he and the girls are mine," Julie said softly.
"You're very lucky," Oliver said. "If I knew there was a woman out there like you for me, I wouldn't hesitate to get married."
Julie blushed. "Oliver..."
"Did I put you on the spot?" he apologised.
"Just a little," Julie admitted.
"I didn't mean to," Oliver said. "And it probably didn't come out the way I meant it to."
"It's okay," Julie reassured him.
"You've just become a very good friend," Oliver told her. "And I think Nick is a very lucky man."
"You've become a really good friend to me too," Julie said. "And a great shoulder to cry on."
"Not that you have to do much of that." Oliver took another piece of bread.
"Well, you've been there for me when I had to," Julie said. "And I thank you for it. You kept me sane."
"Ditto," Oliver agreed.
Julie laughed. "You have something on your face..." She laughed even harder when Oliver tried to wipe at it with his napkin. "Here, let me get it..."
"Thanks," Oliver said with a grin as Julie leaned over.
Julie dabbed at his chin. "Scottish, handsome, modest and a messy eater."
"That might make for a great personals ad," Oliver mused, making Julie sit back and laugh.
"I'll tell Professor Sprout," Julie said with a grin.
"You wouldn't do that to me," Oliver said confidently. "Wait... would you?"
Julie grinned mischievously at him. "You never know..."
"Come on Jules," Oliver pleaded.
"Okay," Julie said. "For now..."
"You're the best," Oliver was relieved.
Julie giggled. "Could you imagine if the girls around here found out that you have a personal ad?"
"I don't!" Oliver swore. "I was just joking about one!"
"Let me see," Julie said with a grin. "Handsome, charming, Scottish male seeks...."
"Seeks no one," Oliver shook his head. "For now..."
Julie laughed. "Okay, okay. I'll stop teasing you."
"I suppose I should let you," Oliver grinned. "After all, you did share some of the best food in the world."
"You are more than welcome to come over for dinner some evening," Julie said. "I would love for the girls and Nick to meet you, Oliver."
"I might take you up on that," Oliver replied.
Julie grinned at him. "I'd really love that. You just name the date and I'll have Greta prepare a feast."
"As soon as possible," Oliver replied immediately.
"How about Friday evening?" Julie asked. "I know Nick will be home."
"I'll plan on it," Oliver nodded. "Thanks Julie."
Julie leaned forward and gave him a hug. As luck would have it, her father had chosen that exact moment to walk into the classroom having decided to surprise his daughter. He cleared his throat.
"Dad!" Julie exclaimed. "What are you doing here?"
"Hagrid invited me over for lunch and I thought I'd stop in to see you before I left," Harry said quietly.
Julie stood up and hugged her father. "It's so good to see you."
"It's good to see you too, sweetheart," Harry said.
"Good to see you, Harry," Oliver said standing up and offering his old friend his hand.
Harry smiled at him. "Headmaster..."
"I'm still getting used to that," Oliver said with a laugh.
"He's fantastic," Julie said loyally.
"You know," Harry teased. "You wouldn't be here if I hadn't passed up the opportunity."
"It's the least you could do since I taught you everything you needed to know about Quidditch," Oliver said.
"I suppose you're right," Harry grinned.
"Have you seen Saffy?" Julie asked her father.
"I was going to catch her in the Great Hall but she'd already headed to class," Harry replied. "And I don't know what she's got next."
"She's got Herbology," Julie said. "I bet she'd love to see you."
"You should go and surprise her," Oliver said. "Both of you. I should get back to my office."
"I'll see you later Oliver," Julie waved her wand and the remnants of their lunch disappeared.
"Thanks again, Julie," Oliver said giving her a warm smile. "See you, Harry."
"Bye Oliver," Harry shook his hand again and the headmaster left.
Julie grabbed her cloak. "Come on, Dad. We want to catch up with her before her class starts."
"Right," Harry said, following her out. "So... you and Oliver are good friends?"
Julie nodded. "He's been so great, Dad. Not just for the school, but for me too."
Harry nodded. "How does Nick like him?"
"He's never met him," Julie replied linking her arm with her father's. "But I asked him to come over for dinner on Friday. I'd love for the girls to meet him, too."
Harry smiled at her. "You seem to really be enjoying yourself here Jules. I'm proud of you."
"Thanks, Dad," Julie said smiling back at him. "This is where I belong."
"It feels strange being back here," Harry commented. "But I'll be glad to see Saffy. Your mother and I have really missed her."
"And what about Puddles?" Julie asked.
"That dog," Harry chuckled. "He stands at her door sometimes and whines."
Julie laughed. "He is her baby."
"That he is," Harry said as they approached the greenhouse.
"Don't tell her this," Julie whispered. "But I have it on good authority that she's pretty much got Head Girl in the bag for next year."
Harry grinned widely. "That makes all three of my kids," he said.
"I still don't see how Ethan managed it," Julie joked.
"He's just like his old man," Harry said proudly.
"Old being the operative word," Julie teased opening the door to the greenhouse.
"Watch this," Harry whispered to Julie before approaching Saffron from behind. In his best Snape impersonation he said, "Miss Potter, you should not be playing with those flowers!"
Saffron's shoulders hunched up. "Professor," she began as she turned around. "DAD!"
"Hi, sweetheart," Harry said giving her a hug. "I had you, didn't I?"
"Yes," she replied. "What are you doing here? I've missed you and Mum a lot!"
Harry grinned at her. "We miss you too. I had lunch with Hagrid and I thought I'd pop in and surprise my girls."
Saffron laughed. "It was a good surprise Dad." she hugged him again.
"Hi, Mr. Potter," Alexa said. "I'd shake your hand but my hands are all dirty. Hi, Jul--I mean Professor Malfoy."
Harry smiled at his daughter's best friend. "You're looking well, Alexa."
"Thanks," Alexa said smiling back at him. "Hey, Saf...I'm just going to see how our seedlings are doing. I'll be right back."
"Okay," Saffron said. "So how's my baby? Does he miss me as much as I miss him?"
"He does," Harry said telling her about how the dog would stand outside her bedroom door. "But, your mum is taking him out for walks everyday."
"Awwww," Saffron deflated for a moment. "I'm still trying to convince Professor Wood to let me bring him here."
"Saffron---" Julie said rolling her eyes. "You know he's not going to change a rule that has been in place for centuries."
"I can still try," Saffron said defiantly.
"She's even tried to get her mother to draft legislation," Harry said.
"Saffy," Julie laughed. "You are too much."
"It's not just for me," Saffron said defensively. "There are other students who would love to have their dogs here. And it's not as if Puddles is an 80-pound German Shepherd or something. He's small and no one would ever know he was here."
"You are still too much," Julie shook her head.
"I still cannot wait until Easter hols," Saffron said. "When I can see him and you guys and Andrew."
"We're all excited," Harry said. "And Lavender stopped by to let us know that Gabriel's spring holiday falls on that weekend as well, so he's decided to visit."
Saffron grinned. "That's great, Dad!"
"Thought you might like that," Harry said. "We'd better go- I know your class is starting..."
Saffron gave him another hug. "I'm so glad you stopped by, Daddy. Give Mum a big hug and kiss from me."
"I will," Harry kissed her cheek. "Behave yourself."
"Like that's going to happen," Julie said tugging on her sister's plait. "I'll see you this afternoon, young lady."
"I have my essay done," Saffron bragged. "Three pages more than you wanted."
"Insufferable know-it-all," Julie teased.
"Just like you," Saffron returned.
"I happen to love insufferable know-it-alls," Harry said thoughtfully.
"You married one," Julie and Saffron chorused.
"Smartest decision I ever made," Harry said with a grin.
"Mum would agree," Saffron said, waving as she went to sit by Alexa.
"How are our little guys doing?" Saffron asked her best friend. "Growing?"
"Like weeds," Alexa grinned at her.
"That's because we're completely fabulous," Saffron said grinning back at her. "Guess what?"
"What?" Alexa said, sprinkling a handful of powder over the seedlings.
"Well," Saffron said coyly. "There's a certain someone who will be travelling from a certain somewhere to spend Easter hols with his fabulous cousin and her equally fabulous best friend."
Alexa blushed. "Gabe wrote me this morning and told me..."
"Did he have anything else to say?" Saffron asked.
"Just talking about his classes," Alexa said.
"You are terrible with details," Saffron said rolling her eyes. "I swear---"
Her words were cut off by Beth running into the greenhouse clutching a newspaper and nearly knocking Professor Sprout to the ground.
"Very nice of you to join us, Elizabeth," Professor Sprout said dusting herself off.
"No problem," Beth said hurrying to her seat.
"What were you doing?" Saffron asked. "Why were you late?"
"I was reading this," Beth said handing Alexa the newspaper. "You're not going to believe it."
Alexa rolled her eyes and looked at the headline. Her eyes nearly bugged out of her head.
"What is it?" Saffron asked.
"Pop Princess Back on the Market After Dumping Quidditch Heartthrob," Alexa read aloud.
Saffron rolled her eyes. "What a crock."
Alexa quickly hid the paper when Professor Sprout walked past them. She knew she shouldn't be curious, but she couldn't help it.
"Lex," Saffron whispered. "Don't waste your time with that."
"I'm not," Alexa said defensively.
"Then throw it out," Saffron replied.
"She should read it," Beth said. "There's some really juicy details in there, Lex. Serena completely annihilates him."
"Don't you think we're a bit above all that?" Saffron asked.
"No," Mimi said rolling her eyes. "If you're not going to read it, Lexie, let me see it."
Alexa handed over the paper.
Mimi took it eagerly and Saffron and Alexa returned their attention to their seedlings.
"Oh my God!" Beth whispered a few moments later. "Can you believe she said that about him?"
"I know," Mimi agreed. "That's really cold."
Saffron, despite what she had said before, could hardly bear her curiosity. "What did she say?" Saffron asked turning around.
Mimi grinned. "Oh, so now you want to know..."
"I can't stand it," Saffron admitted.
Curiosity had the better of Alexa too and she scooted back her chair to listen.
"In our exclusive interview with Serena Starr, the pop star opened up to us about her heartbreak over Puddlemere United's RJ Weasley," Mimi read aloud. "The two dated for nearly two months and were the talk of the town, showing up at parties and premieres all over the place."
"We know all that," Saffron said impatiently. "Get to the good stuff."
"Just wait," Mimi laughed.
"It's good stuff," Beth agreed eagerly.
"Serena says that she was attracted to the Quidditch player right from the start," Mimi read aloud. "'I really thought we'd work out given that we were both really hot and liked to have fun', Miss Starr told our reporter."
Saffron snorted.
"She's so full of herself," Mimi agreed.
"Go on, Meems," Beth urged.
"But he's really about as much fun as watching my nails dry," Mimi continued reading the article. "I thought I could fall back on the physical aspect of our relationship, but---"
"But what?" Saffron asked impatiently.
Mimi grinned. "But that really wasn't that much fun either," Mimi continued. "And to tell you the truth, I've had better."
Saffron covered her mouth and steadied herself so she wouldn't fall over laughing.
Alexa frowned. "That's really awful of her to say things like that."
"Come on, Lexie," Saffron said giggling. "He deserves that."
"No he doesn't," Alexa said angrily.
"When reached for comment, Mr. Weasley declined saying that what happened between he and Miss Starr was private," Mimi finished.
"Good for RJ," Alexa said. "He's not sinking to her level."
"I still think it's sort of funny," Saffron said. "In fact, it's probably the funniest thing she's ever said."
Alexa glared at her best friend. She knew there was no love lost between her ex and Saffron, but they'd grown up together and had been friends not too long ago.
"What?" Saffron asked.
"Just let it go," Alexa whispered turning back around.
"Lexie," Saffron said incredulously. "Come on..."
"I'm not going to laugh about this, Saffron," Alexa said quietly. "No matter what happened between RJ and me, I never wanted to see him embarrassed like this."
"I suppose you're right," Saffron admitted reluctantly.
"Thank you," Alexa said.
"You'll have to come over when Gabe's here," Saffron changed the subject.
Alexa wrote down some observations on their seedlings. "Saffy, Gabe and I are just friends."
Saffron raised an eyebrow. "So friendly that you snogged him on New Year's?"
"An innocent kiss, Miss Matchmaker," Alexa said nudging her.
"About as innocent as the first time Andrew kissed me," Saffron snorted.
Alexa laughed. "Well, he did...he did say in his last letter that he's been thinking about me an awful lot."
"Uh huh," Saffron grinned. "Now those are the details I want to hear."
"We're going to take it slow," Alexa said. "And just see what happens."
"That's a good idea," Saffron encouraged.
"And maybe the four of us can do something again like we did over New Year's," Alexa suggested. "If it wouldn't be too awkward for Andrew.."
"I'll ask him," Saffron said. "I don't think he'll mind."
"Speaking of which, I know you miss him," Alexa said.
"Andrew?" Saffron grinned. "Duh."
Alexa giggled. "You guys are so cute."
"He's just soooo perfect," Saffron said dreamily.
"We're still going to listen to his match this weekend on the Wireless, right?" Alexa asked.
"Absolutely," Saffron touched her locket. "Merlin Lex, I miss him so bloody much."
"I know," Alexa said. "But he did send you those beautiful flowers for Valentine's Day and he writes to you. I know it's not the same, but it's very romantic."
Saffron opened the locket and stared inside for a few minutes.
"What's he doing?" Alexa asked.
"Writing something," Saffron said fondly.
Alexa smiled thinking it was probably a letter to her friend.
And she was right, but what neither of the two girls knew was that he was also listening to his best friend rant about Serena Starr.
"She's a complete nutcase," RJ said tossing the paper aside. "I don't know what I ever saw in her!"
Andrew felt bad for his best mate. "I'm sorry," he said. "But for what it's worth, I think you took the better route. People will think more of you for it."
"I know, but I'm sure the guys on the team are going to have a field day with this," RJ said shaking his head.
"Probably for now," Andrew agreed. "But just hold your head high, RJ."
"I should have listened to you from the start," RJ said sinking down onto the sofa.
Andrew didn't want to voice his thoughts on that comment. Instead, he finished the letter he was writing to his girlfriend.
"She still trashing me in her letters to you?" RJ asked.
"Nah, not so much," Andrew said with a grin. "It's more talk about how much she misses me, how much she wants to--"
"How much she wants to---" RJ said. "Shag you?"
Andrew turned red. "We haven't gone that far yet."
"I won't take the piss, mate," RJ promised.
"It's not that we don't want to," Andrew explained. "We just want it to be right."
"That's how it was for Lexie and me," RJ said nodding.
Andrew nodded. "We sort of came close on our anniversary..."
"And Brighton too," RJ reminded him. "Before Uncle Harry walked in. You're lucky he didn't A.K. you then and there."
"Yeah, yeah," Andrew turned red again. "Thanks for reminding me about that."
"It's what I'm here for," RJ said with a grin. There was a knock at the door. "If that's another bloody reporter...."
"You'll say no comment," Andrew said.
"Right," RJ said getting up to answer the door. He was surprised to find his three sisters on the other side of the door. "What are you guys doing here?"
Maddie held up the paper. "This." she answered simply.
RJ groaned. "I've seen it, Mads."
"We just came over to see how you're doing," Drew interjected.
"And to see if you wanted help plotting revenge," Darla added.
"Revenge?" RJ asked as they brushed past him into the flat.
"One of the ladies at work has voodoo dolls," Maddie said.
"All we'd need is a strand of her hair," Drew said with a grin.
"Or else, I could let Blue loose in her flat," Maddie replied. "He'll do whatever I tell him to do in there."
"Or we could tell the press what her real name is," Darla chimed in.
"Her real name?" RJ asked.
"Muriel Dorfman doesn't really sound as great as Serena Starr," Darla said wickedly.
Andrew guffawed. "Muriel Dorfman?"
"Muriel Matilda Dorfman," Darla said causing Andrew and RJ to laugh even harder.
"That's fucking pathetic," RJ snorted. "No wonder she never talks about her family."
"She can't mess with a Weasley and expect to get away with it," Darla said putting her arm around her brother.
"Thanks," RJ gave them a crooked smile. "We do sort of band together don't we?"
"No matter what," Darla said.
"One of the reasons I'm glad you lot like me," Andrew said.
Maddie smiled at him. "How is everything with you and Saffy?"
"Fantastic," Andrew said holding up his letter. "I was about to post this letter to her."
"I can't wait for her to see Chloe," Drew said.
"Oh that reminds me," RJ said. "I have pictures for you of her that I took."
"RJ!" Drew gushed.
"Those are beautiful," Darla agreed. "RJ I can't believe you haven't pursued a photography career on the side."
"You know Mum and Grandpa Ernie would love to have you take pictures for the Quibbler," Maddie said. "You could do it during the off season, RJ."
"I'll think about it," RJ said.
"You should," Maddie said looking over Drew's shoulder at the pictures. "Oh, look at how cute she is!"
"She is, isn't she?" Drew said proudly as Chloe waved her little arms in the photograph.
"She is," Darla agreed. "Which reminds me, Drew...remember what we were going to ask Ronnie Junior?"
"Oh, yes," Drew said looking over at her brother. "RJ, you know Dar and I are getting married in a couple of months..."
"Who doesn't know?" RJ asked.
Darla elbowed him in the ribs. "We wanted to ask you if you'd be our official wedding photographer, you dolt."
"Really?" RJ asked. "Sure!"
Darla grinned. "Fantastic."
"And we have our matron of honour already," Drew said smiling at Maddie. "Who's so gorgeous, she'll upstage us both."
"Oh stop it," Maddie grinned at them. "You two will be positively glowing that day. No one's going to look more beautiful than you guys."
"If I can lose this baby weight," Drew said patting her tummy.
Darla and Maddie both groaned. "You already have," Darla pointed out.
"I know what you mean," Andrew said patting his own stomach. "I feel really bloated today."
RJ gave his friend an odd look. "You are strange."
"You don't understand me," Andrew said dramatically.
"You're a card," Maddie told him with a grin.
"Madeline understands me," Andrew said grinning at her.
"Madeline understands everyone," RJ nudged his sister. "When we were kids, she was the only one of this lot who'd give me the time of day."
"You were the baby," Darla scoffed. "Everyone gave you the time of day."
"Only when Jon and Josh weren't taking the Mickey out of me," RJ answered. "Or you and Drew weren't trying to put me in makeup."
Andrew grinned. "Makeup?"
"Don't ask," RJ pointed threateningly at him.
"We'll tell you later," Drew whispered to Andrew.
"No you won't!" RJ had heard her.
"Okay, but only because you took such great photos of Chloe," Drew relented. "Can I take these home to show Brian?"
"They're yours," RJ answered as he stretched.
Drew gave him a hug. "Thanks, little brother. You really are the best."
"Would you go tell the papers that then?" RJ asked, tossing the news into the fire.
"I would, but they're probably interested in only printing the bad stuff, RJ," Drew said. "Don't you let this get you down. You are better than all that rubbish, RJ. I'm proud of you for not playing into that game."
"Thanks," RJ said. "Andrew's responsible for the no comment. I was ready to ream her up one side and down the other."
"Good job, Andrew," Maddie said smiling at him.
"Thanks," Andrew said. "I've got to get this to the owl post." he held up the letter.
"I think you should add a postscript," Darla said grabbing his arm. "You have to tell Saffron about Serena's real name, Andrew."
Andrew grinned. "That's not classified information, right?"
Darla laughed. "No."
"Then I'm sure with her two room mates, this is going to be all over Hogwarts by the end of today." Andrew added a line or two.
"Oh and send her one of these," Drew said handing him one of the photos.
"She'll love that," Andrew said. "Thanks Drew."
Maddie took her brother aside. "I really am proud of you, you know."
"You are?" he asked.
Maddie nodded. "When all this started, it was like you were moving away from all of us and now I feel as if you're back. Jon told me about how much you've been around to see the girls and Adam. And Josh said you were over with the triplets last night. I just feel like I've gotten my brother back. I missed him."
RJ gave her a crooked smile. "I think I sort of lost touch for awhile there. But thanks for looking out for me. You always were the one who did when we were kids."
Maddie gave him a hug. "And you used to threaten those boys at Hogwarts who made fun of me. Even though they were four years older than you."
"Remember? We Weasleys stick together." RJ laughed.
"Always have," Maddie said mussing his hair. "Always will."
From across the room, Andrew was laughing so hard he was crying.
"I just told Andrew about Serena telling Drew she should look into hair extensions for Chloe," Darla explained.
"Bloody hell," RJ groaned. "That was ridiculous."
Drew laughed. "Well, out of respect for you, I didn't say anything."
"That was kind of the catalyst," RJ said, sitting down. "Everything just started looking so ridiculous and fake when I was with her."
"Mum said you were going to try being alone for awhile," Darla said. "I think that's very mature, RJ."
RJ nodded. "I really don't want to have a steady girlfriend at the moment. "The past few years have all been spent with me having someone and I'd just like to play the field for awhile."
"You'll be too busy trying to win the Cup anyway," Andrew commented.
"Right," RJ said with a grin.
Drew looked at her watch. "I have to go. I'm supposed to meet Brian at his parents'. I'm just really glad you're doing okay, RJ."
"Thanks for coming by," RJ hugged his sister. "I'll see you soon."
"Yes you will," Drew promised. "And don't let Muriel get you down."
"Oh if she tries anything, at least now I have leverage," RJ grinned.
Drew laughed. "I love you, little brother."
"Love you too," RJ said. "Say hi to Brian for me."
"I will," Drew said. "Dar, you coming?"
"Yes," Darla said. "I'm meeting Hans in a little bit."
"And I have to get to work," Maddie said.
"Oooh," RJ teased. "Is Trelawney Jr. having a vision?"
"I'm seeing a certain red haired athlete getting smacked upside the head by his blonde sister," Maddie said.
RJ backed away. "You hit hard."
"And don't you forget it," Maddie said following her sisters out. "Bye, Andrew!"
"Bye Maddie," Andrew waved. "Bye, Drew, Darla!"
RJ closed the door behind them, feeling much better.
"Want to run with me to the Owlery?" Andrew asked. "You know, we should probably look into getting an owl of our own."
"Yeah, we probably should," RJ said grabbing his cloak, hat and sunglasses. He didn't want anyone to recognise him. "And how about we go grab a bite to eat at a Muggle diner?"
"Incognito?" Andrew smirked at him. "Sounds good to me. There's that Muggle pub right in Piccadilly that's got pretty good food."
"Sounds great," RJ said. "And you're buying."
"You're the big money maker here," Andrew said. "Why do I have to treat?"
"You have Muggle money," RJ said simply. "I don't."
Andrew rolled his eyes. "Fine next time we go out for drinks, it's on you then."
"Deal," RJ said with a laugh.
Week 10: Seamus and Lavender
Heaven: I'd like to start this interview out by saying I'm very sorry if I missed anyone's questions. I thought I checked through the reviews pretty thoroughly, but in case yours was missed, be assured it was not intentional. I blame NyQuil for my ditziness...
Amynoelle: Did you have any strange dreams while you were on NyQuil? I always have the strangest, most bizarre dreams when I take it.
Heaven: I did have an odd dream last night, but it's escaping me now. I just remember it was weird. I think it involved my job.
Amynoelle: Well, at least you're well enough to do our interview tonight.
Heaven: Oh yes... the worst has passed. Finally!
Amynoelle: It's a shame Gabriel couldn't be with them tonight, but I imagine he's swamped with school work.
Heaven: And--
Amynoelle: Shhhhhh! Don't give anything away!
Heaven: Oops... okay, my lips are sealed. Except when I ask questions.
Amynoelle: Ooooh, here they are! Hello, Seamus! Hiya, Lavender!
Lavender: Hello girls!
Seamus: Ladies.
Amynoelle: It's an honour to meet you both. I've never met a big-shot director before. Do you know Jude Law? Patrick Dempsey? Eric Dane? Hmmm?
Heaven: Seamus, do you know Sean Biggerstaff? Is he single? Do you have his mobile number? Julie gave me Oliver's and let me say, he's an absolute delight.
Seamus: Was this the only reason you two wanted to talk to us tonight?
Lavender: I can't say as I blame them, Seamus. I love that Sean Biggerstaff. He has such a great---
Seamus: Lavender.
Heaven: Lav, you'll tell me later, right?
Lavender: *winks* Sure thing.
Heaven: Sweeeet... and you'll tell Amy about Jude right? What you told me the other day when I called you about the interview?
Lavender: I will, but that will be off the record, girls.
Amynoelle: *Grins* Yay! So, back to business. Seamus, how is Gabriel doing?
Seamus: He's doing fantastic! Head of his class at USC! Lav and I are really, really proud of him.
Lavender: He's going to be a great doctor.
Heaven: And a hot one...
Amynoelle: Some girls are partial to redheads though, Heaven.
Heaven: Yes, but that's my personal opinion is all...
Amynoelle: But I do happen to think Gabriel is cute, too. I'm just saying that SOME girls, not naming names, of course, might prefer...
Seamus: Okay, okay. Before Lavender joins in, how about we get to those questions...
Heaven: Right... the questions. Okay... we'll start with one from coolman. Seamus, being a full time film director, don't you miss magic? Why did you choose a Muggle job over a wizarding one?
Seamus: That's a great question, actually. Even though my job is in the Muggle world, magic is still a big part of my life. I haven't turned my back on it at all. I've always loved films and knew from an early age that it was what I wanted to do with my life. There's nothing else I could ever see myself doing.
Heaven: This question sort of goes along with it, from TheGreatFox2000. Seamus, ever since you and Lav got back together at Hillsdale, has Summer Rayne acted in any of your films?
Lavender: She's completely B-list now. She'd doing some reality show on one of those cable shows now. The poor thing...
Seamus: Lav- that's not true. She's done quite a few films for me!
Lavender: She's a cow.
Amynoelle: I thought the two of you were friends?
Lavender: We used to shop together sometimes. But that was it. I had to teach her everything.
Amynoelle: She reminds me a bit of a smarter Serena Starr, but that's another topic altogether. Toinkydoink asks Seamus what made you decide directing Muggle films was your passion? When exactly did you discover this? And what did you do to pursue it?
Seamus: When I was younger, I used to take my dad's camera and film everything- from ants to clouds. And during my time at Hogwarts, there wasn't a whole lot there for films, but during all my summer hols, I would study as much as I could. At Hillsdale I got loads of experience running the projectors. And once I got to Hollywood, I just was lucky enough to get to know the right people.
Lavender: That and he's the most talented director around.
Seamus: She's not biased at all.
Heaven: You've really done fabulous work, Seamus. Another quick question about films, from asianhomie101. What movies have you been drawn to directing, and why? And what movies don't you enjoy directing?
Seamus: Another good question. I started out with action films, actually. And they became kind of what I was known for, but to tell you the truth, I rather like doing the dramas. And I am actually directing a comedy right now that I am really excited about. I don't have a certain genre that I don't like. To me, the important thing is the script.
Lavender: I love it when he does romantic dramas. It always puts him in the mood...
Amynoelle: That same reader has a question for Lavender. They want to know if you ever expected your clothes to go worldwide? And how does it feel to have reporters wherever you go?
Lavender: The reporters part I don't always like- they can be so bloody nosey! Sometimes I'm buying something in the shops and they take a million photographs of me pulling out my credit card.
At first, I didn't think my clothes would become such a label, I really didn't. I still remember the first set of robes I made for Hermione, and I think about how far I've come since then. It's really quite amazing, to see my clothing on everyone and knowing I had a hand in their own personal style.
Amynoelle: And it seems like no one in your family or extended family and friends can get married without wearing one of your originals!
Lavender: *smiles* I'm glad to do it
Amynoelle: You two have gone through quite a bit over the years, but I think it all pales in comparison to that day when a young man entered your house to interview for one of your internships, Seamus.
Seamus: You can say that again. I couldn't believe when Gabe told me who he was.
Amynoelle: A reader, ears91, wants to know what Lavender's initial reaction to Gabe was. Had Seamus ever told her about Gabe's mother before?
Lavender: No... he never really talked about Samantha. But she sounded like an absolutely wonderful woman, and I have no jealousy towards her. My reaction to Gabriel... well I was completely shell shocked, really. But the proof was right there, I mean he looked almost exactly like Seamus. And I love him as if he was really my own.
Heaven: That is so sweet. And I'm sure he really cares about you too, Lav. ProngsHoof, ears9, Kelci, and an anonymous reader all want to know if you two regret not having any children, or if you still plan to have any?
Lavender: We have no plans to have any children. It's a little too late for that, but we have Gabriel and that's enough for us. Looking back, I would have liked to have given him a child...
Seamus: We don't dwell on the past. We're happy just knowing we were able to find true love in each other.
Amynoelle: Awwww. Manderjean wants to know that since you never had children together, have you ever thought of adopting or fostering children like Ron and Luna did?
Lavender: We have, but Seamus and I both have incredibly unpredictable schedules in life. Some of our colleagues are able to balance that, but we don't think we would be able to give a child the care and supervision he or she would need. We do donate to many charities who support hunger worldwide, though, and we support children through several programs.
Amynoelle: Potterchick958 has a great question. Lavender, after reconnecting with Seamus, do you regret not having listened to him about the supposed affair the first time around? Because during your time apart, Seamus did meet Sam, and now you have Gabe through that, so does that influence your stance at all?
Lavender: I really can't say I regret it, because it would mean Gabriel wouldn't have been born. I do wish I had not been so foolish, as Seamus and I could have had many more years together, but as you can all see, it worked out in the end.
Heaven: Seamus, I have an interesting question from RC. If you had found out about Samantha's pregnancy, would you have married her?
Seamus: *doesn't answer for a few moments* : I loved Samantha very much, but at the time of our breakup, things had changed. I was away quite a bit and I didn't think it was fair to her. But, I do know that had I known about Sam's pregnancy, she and Gabriel would never have had to want for anything.
Heaven: I don't think Samantha was unhappy though, I mean, she missed you, but she understood why you two parted.
Amynoelle: RC also wants to know what the best and worst things are about being a father?
Seamus: The best thing is actually having a son, and knowing what a great kid he is. I'm so proud of him! And the worst thing? There is no worst thing. Not at all.
Amynoelle: And how is your relationship with Margaret and Lewis? I know you and Lewis haven't always gotten along...
Seamus: Everything is fine with Margaret. Things with Lewis... they've been better now. I think he's finally realising that I'm not about to bow out of Gabriel's life.
Amynoelle: Heaven, should we ask Megan's question with Lavender in the room, do you think?
Lavender: What question? I'm not leaving!
Heaven: It's really not that bad... well Seamus told you how he got a visit from Samantha's ghost, right?
Lavender: Yes, he did.
Amynoelle: Did he tell you EVERYTHING about that visit?
Seamus: *turns red* Is this about when she asked me to kiss her? It was really just for old time's sake.
Amynoelle: And maybe it gave Samantha some closure.
Lavender: He kissed her ghost? Is that all?
Amynoelle: We had to ask!
Lavender: I'm not jealous. It's okay.
Heaven: That's good. Don't take this the wrong way, Lav, but you have matured so much.
Lavender: Thank you. Could you tell that to Harry Potter, please?
Amynoelle: Speaking of which, coolman's other question to you was for you to describe your most famous 'battle' with Harry?
Lavender: There have been so many! And he calls ME dramatic, honestly. All I would do once in a great while--
Seamus: Once a week you mean.
Lavender: Once in a GREAT while, I would go over in the middle of the night if I had a crisis. And he always acted as if I were putting him out. It's not my fault he's a light sleeper!
Amynoelle: He did overreact, Lavender. And Hermione is your cousin and best friend after all!
Heaven: What's a best friend if you can't go to her at 2 am with your problems!
Lavender: Exactly! I'm so glad you both understand!
Seamus: *shakes head*
Heaven: Okay, back to business here! ProngsHoof wants to know what if you hadn't gone back to Hillsdale that summer, where do you think you would be now?
Seamus: I like my life as it is now. I don't want to go back and think what if then and what if now. I'd like to think that no matter what, Lavender and I would have found our way back to each other.
Lavender: Absolutely. I think my life was destined to be in Hollywood. I just fit in so well there!
Seamus: And to think at one time she was reluctant to go.
Amynoelle: Molly has a great question for each of you. What is your favourite childhood memory? Lavender?
Lavender: The time that I was able to spend with my parents before they died. I can't pinpoint one moment, but I just enjoyed every second that I had with them.
Seamus: I think mine is the first time I discovered Da's camera... *laughs* I filmed my feet for ten minutes.
Amynoelle: Do you still have that tape?
Seamus: Somewhere. I've never thrown any of them away.
Heaven: Good grief, you sound like me. I still have stories I wrote when I was twelve buried away in boxes.
Amynoelle: Me too! I think we have issues with letting go...
Heaven: Maybe we're just delusional.
Heaven: I have another interesting question from PotterChick958. Seamus, if Lavender had never gotten back together with you, would you have married Sam? Or even, if you had not married Lavender or Sam, what would you have done with your life?
Seamus: Well, when Lav and I broke up that first time, I thought I'd never fall in love again. I didn't want to put myself through that rubbish again, you know? And so I----
Lavender: Shagged almost everything in sight.
Seamus: I did not! There were quite a few girls in the beginning, but my relationships had more meaning as I got older. Aside from Lav, Samantha was the one I cared for the most. And I got one of life's greatest gifts from her.
Amynoelle: Natalie wants to know how you felt when you heard about those "alleged" marriages of Lavender's?
Seamus: If she was happy, I was glad for her.
Amynoelle: Do you ever see any of your ex-husbands, Lavender?
Lavender: Here or there at some do, but we don't talk. I have nothing to say to any of them.
Heaven: toinkydoink has another question for you Lav- what do you think of Paris Hilton?
Lavender: I think she's a lovely girl. She's worn a few of my designs actually.
Heaven: I thought some of them looked familiar!
Lavender: She needs to stop hanging out with that Britney Spears though.
Heaven: Lav, I think you need to give Britney Spears some fashion advice. And some knickers.
Lavender: There are not enough hours in the day to give that girl the help she obviously needs.
Heaven: And we shouldn't waste an hour talking about her! We have just a few more questions. Coolman wants to know if Gabe has asked either of you about arranging a portkey to Hogsmeade for him?
Seamus: No, he hasn't. He's quite busy with university. But if he wanted us to, we'd do what we could.
Heaven: Maybe you'll have to do that for him soon... wouldn't that be a great surprise?
Lavender: I think it's a fabulous idea! Especially so he could see...Saffy...or anyone else...
Seamus: Lav, you promised not to meddle--
Lavender: You're no fun, sometimes.
Amynoelle: I think that pretty much does it for the questions from the readers, right?
Heaven: Yup, that's it for today! We had some good ones!
Amynoelle: I do have something I'd like to ask Seamus about Gabriel and Samantha if I could. What do you see in Gabriel that reminds you of his mother?
Seamus: A lot of things. His stubborn nature, for one. And his smile reminds me of hers.
Amynoelle: Were you apprehensive about telling him who you really were---about you being a wizard? He was already going through some anger issues with you and to throw that on there...
Seamus: When he almost went home that day, I thought I would never see him again. Thankfully, my wife stepped in and got him to listen.
Amynoelle: We wish you three all the best. We really do. We're really happy that Gabriel was able to find you.
Seamus: Thanks. I'm glad too. It was lovely meeting you ladies.
Amynoelle: Okay, Lavender...time to tell us all about Jude, Sean...