Authors' note: Thanks for the feedback, guys! We know that was a sad chapter with the big breakup. If you visit the group on orkut you know that we referenced a sad thing coming up and the breakup was that thing. We hated writing it because we love Andrew/Saffy as a couple so it was painful for us to do, but storyline dictated it. We hope that you will like this next chapter.
Ashley laughed as she saw Emma stand up near the castle with her hands on her hips.
The little redhead was helping Hannah with one side of the castle while Will did the middle and Katie and Caroline did the other side.
"What is it, Em?" Will asked. "Did I do something wrong?"
Emma pursed her little lips. "Needs water."
"You think?" Will asked her.
Emma nodded. "Han thinks so too."
"Maybe just a little, Daddy," Hannah said.
"All right then," Will grabbed a pail. "I'll go get us some water. You two make sure that moat will keep it."
"Okay, Daddy," Hannah said grabbing a handful of sand.
Will got a pail full of ocean water and brought it back. "Is the moat ready, girls?"
Emma walked around the castle. "Think so."
"We're ready on this side," Katie replied.
Will knew the water would just sink into the sand so he muttered a quick spell. "Who wants to help do the honours?"
Emma looked at Hannah. "Han do it."
Caroline clapped her hands. "Yes!"
Hannah grinned. "Really?"
Katie nodded. "Since this is your first ever castle..."
"Thanks," Hannah said excitedly. She helped her father tip the bucket and the water flowed around in the moat they'd made.
Emma jumped up and down excitedly. "Pretty!"
"Very nice girls," Will nodded. "You four did a great job."
Hannah gave her father a hug. "Thanks, Daddy."
"You girls did most of it," Will pinched her nose.
Hannah giggled.
"Is it safe for me to look at it at least?" Frankie asked.
"Yes Mummy," Hannah reached for her hand. "But I think my tower is a little crooked."
Frankie leaned down to get a better look. "No, it isn't, sweetheart. It's perfect."
"Really?" Hannah beamed.
"Absolutely," Frankie said picking her up.
"Han go in water?" Emma asked.
"I don't know how to swim," Hannah told her.
"We can just wade along the shore," Will told her.
"Sounds like a plan," Frankie said. "Come on, girls."
Further up on the shore, Allison was sitting with Adam. "Hey, little guy. Do you want some juice?"
"Oooh," Adam cooed at her.
Allison grinned and reached for the bottle of juice in her bag. "Come here then you."
"Is he crawling yet Allie?" Maddie called to her.
"Does he ever," Allison laughed.
Maddie laughed as her nephew rocked on his little hands and knees.
Allison grinned. "Would you like to hold him while he drinks his juice?"
"Do you even have to ask?" Maddie scooted under the umbrella and opened her arms.
Adam crawled into her lap and Maddie kissed his cheek. "Hiya, Adam."
Adam made an excited noise as Allison pulled out his bottle of juice.
"He's such a good baby," Maddie said positioning him in her lap.
"Yes, he is," Allison smiled at her son, who sucked contentedly on the bottle. "I love watching Caroline and Em with him."
"Emma's still being overprotective?" Maddie asked.
"Not as much," Allison replied. "She still will check up on him, but is very involved with her dance classes and playing with Hannah too."
"Best friends," Maddie said fondly looking to where the two girls were playing on the shore with Frankie, Will, Katie and Caroline.
Allison followed her gaze. "Will and Frankie are wonderful parents."
"They are," Maddie said. "I always knew they would be."
"When I got pregnant with Caroline, Jon and I were terrified that we would be horrible parents," Allison said. "But it all just sort of clicks when it happens."
"I hope that I'm as good a Mum as you are when it's my turn," Maddie said.
"I'm sure you will be," Allison assured her.
"Thanks, Allie," Maddie said. She looked around. "Where's Lizzy?"
Allison sighed. "She had to work, so she's not coming for a few more days."
"Oh," Maddie said. "That's a shame."
"I know," Allison replied. "Josh wasn't very pleased."
Maddie shook her head. "Well, I'm sure it couldn't be helped."
"I think Liz could have tried a bit harder, but what's done is done..." Allison said thoughtfully.
Adam finished his bottle and Maddie wiped at his mouth. "Who's a good boy?"
Adam opened his mouth and let out a rather large burp.
Maddie giggled. "You are definitely a Weasley."
"I heard that all the way down the beach," Nick teased, coming up hand in hand with Julie.
"I think they heard him in Greece," Maddie joked.
"Very funny," Allison smiled as Adam crawled back over to her.
"Look at him go!" Julie exclaimed.
Allison laughed. "Yes, look at him go. He knows just one speed."
"Kind of like Jon," Nick cracked.
"Have you seen my husband, by the way?" Allison asked.
"He was swimming around out there," Julie pointed. "I think he's becoming one with the fish."
Allison shook her head. "Adam and I are going to go see if we can wave him in."
Julie settled down with Maddie while Nick went to get them something to drink. Julie was in the middle of catching up with her sister-in-law when Harry came up and tapped her over the shoulder. He didn't look all that happy. "Dad?"
"Might I have a word, Jules?" Harry asked quietly.
"Sure," Julie's eyebrows creased. "What's wrong?"
"I was talking with Katie a few minutes ago and she told me something troubling about you and Oliver," Harry said folding his arms.
Julie sighed. "She wasn't supposed to say anything to anyone," she glanced disapprovingly back at her youngest.
"Did he make a pass at you?" Harry asked.
"No," Julie shook her head.
"I can't believe he would do this to you," Harry said angrily. "You're his employee!"
"Dad!" Julie exclaimed. "There is nothing, I repeat, NOTHING, going on with me and Oliver Wood!"
"But he fancies you!" Harry countered.
"It's not like that," Julie argued. "Dad, please don't do or say anything to him."
"I don't like this one bit," Harry said. "I wish you'd have told me sooner. I actually had lunch with that bastard last week and he never mentioned--"
"Don't call him that!" Julie said, growing angry herself. "He respects me as a fellow employee. Nothing HAS happened and nothing ever WILL happen!"
"Julie---"
"I'm serious Dad," Julie said firmly.
Harry wasn't so sure he'd be able to keep quiet about this whenever he saw Oliver Wood again. "Look, if you're worried about your job..."
"I'm not," Julie crossed her arms. "My job is fine. My boss is fine. We are friends and colleagues. That's it, and that is ALL."
"Everything okay?" Ethan asked coming up from behind them.
"Fine," Julie replied. "I need to have a word with my daughter."
"Julie--" Harry called after her, but she ignored him. "Bloody hell----"
"What's going on, Dad?" Ethan asked.
Harry shook his head, not sure he wanted to divulge this to anyone else.
"So far today I've managed to piss off two of my three children," Harry said instead.
"Dad come on," Ethan said. "Why are Jules and Saffy angry at you?"
"Don't worry about it," Harry told him. "So how are you, son?"
"Fine," Ethan replied. "Still on a bit of a high from that assignment."
Harry grinned at him. "You should be. You did great."
Ethan was pleased. "So when we get back... can I expect another big assignment?"
"Let's just say you probably will not have to do anymore of those assignments that no one else wants," Harry told him. "Nev's quite pleased with Justin's progress, too."
Ethan pumped his fist. "YES!"
Harry laughed. "You worked hard for it, Ethan."
"I'm glad to be here, but I already can't wait to be back now," Ethan said.
Harry was glad that one of his children seemed to want his advice and wasn't cross with him.
"I know I've said it a million times, but thanks for letting me help you," Ethan added.
"I liked working side by side with my son," Harry said. "And hopefully we can do it again."
"Anytime," Ethan said immediately.
Harry followed his son back up toward the house. Saffron wasn't playing volleyball anymore and was now sitting on one of the chaise lounges on the deck.
"Hey, brat," Ethan said affectionately.
Saffron looked over at him. "Hi," she said quietly.
"Who won the match, sweetheart?" Harry asked.
"I don't know," Saffron shrugged. "We weren't really playing a match."
"You'll have to play me later," Ethan offered. "I think I can take you."
Saffron shrugged again. "Maybe..."
"You're scared," Ethan teased. "You're afraid that I'll beat you."
Saffron rolled her eyes. "I just don't want to play, okay?"
Ethan nodded. "Well, if you do...you know where I am."
Saffron felt bad as her brother turned to leave. "Ethan? I'm sorry..."
Ethan smiled at her. "Its okay, Saf. I know."
"I just... I just can't stop thinking about Andrew," Saffron said softly.
"I know," Ethan said putting his arm around her.
"I don't know what to do," Saffron leaned against her brother.
"I imagine Mum and Dad and Jules told you it would get better with time and that it was his loss," Ethan said.
"That's good advice," Harry said defensively.
Saffron smiled weakly as Puddles shifted in her lap. "I miss him so much."
"I know you do," Ethan said.
"I was worried you'd tease me about it," Saffron admitted.
"You can do magic outside of school now," Ethan said shuddering. "I'm not stupid."
At that, she managed a little laugh. "It's nice to know you're scared of your baby sister."
"Have you seen you when you're angry?" Ethan asked her. "Bloody terrifying, it is."
"Like your mum," Harry added wryly.
Ethan mussed her hair. "We're all here for you, Saf."
Saffron hugged her brother. "How did you get through things when Maddie thought you cheated on her? You sort of broke up then..."
"Holed myself up in the guest room at Frankie and Will's," Ethan said. "Felt sorry for myself."
"But you got through it," Saffron said. "I mean... you and Maddie got back together..."
"And you'll get through it too," Ethan told her. "And maybe you and Andrew can work things out someday."
"I don't know," Saffron looked at her feet, which were bare and warming in the sun. "He was so angry. I've never seen him that way."
"Give it time," Ethan said. "You both might need this to figure things out."
"But he just walked away," Saffron shook her head. "Didn't even try to fight it or anything."
"Maybe you need to think about what you did to cause this," Ethan said knowing he was treading into dangerous waters.
Saffron normally would have blown up at him, but didn't really have the energy to do so. She only shook her head and slumped back in her chair.
"Mads wants to see you," Ethan said getting to his feet.
"Where is she?" Saffron asked.
"Out on the beach," Ethan replied. "You don't have to go out there now, just when you're ready."
"I'll go," Saffron pushed herself heavily off the chair. "Thanks..." she added dully.
"Never seen Saf like that," Ethan said to his father.
"I know," Harry gazed after her. "Hermione and I are worried about her."
"Good thing RJ's not here," Ethan remarked.
Harry nodded. "You aren't kidding," he replied.
Saffron headed down the beach where her sister in law was still sitting. "Hi Maddie," she said. "Ethan told me you wanted to see me?"
Maddie smiled and gave her a hug. "I just wanted to see how you were holding up."
"I'm okay," Saffron said. "Not good... or great... just okay."
Maddie squeezed her hand. "Ethan and I were worried about you."
"Thanks," Saffron sent her a wan smile.
"If you need anything, you just let me know," Maddie told her.
Saffron nodded. "I just wish I could get him out of my head."
"I felt the same way when Ethan and I broke up," Maddie said softly.
"But you two got back together," Saffron answered softly.
"Well, at the time, I didn't know we would," Maddie said. "I felt like I had lost a part of myself. But I had my sisters to lean on and my brothers and my mum and dad."
"I thought Ethan might give me a hard time about this but he didn't," Saffron said.
"He knows when to choose his battles," Maddie told her. "He cares about you, Saffy. We all do."
"Thanks Maddie," Saffron said as Puddles tugged at his leash.
"And I'm sure this little guy is going to do whatever he can to keep your spirits up," Maddie said smiling at the dog.
"He's my baby," Saffron pushed herself up. "I'll see you in a little while."
"Okay," Maddie said watching her sister-in-law head off down the beach. She was worried about Saffron. For some reason, she couldn't shake the feeling that the teenager was in for some very tough times.
*** *** ***
After dinner that evening, Gabriel stole Alexa away for a walk on the beach. Alexa had offered to stay behind with Saffron, but Saffron told her to and have fun. She still felt guilty for leaving her friend though.
"We'll bring her back some ice cream," Gabriel told Alexa as they set off down the beach.
"Okay," Alexa took his hand and squeezed it. "I HAVE been waiting all day to get you alone..."
Gabriel grinned. "Me too."
She leaned against him. "And I'm so happy it's finally summer so we get to spend all this time together."
"I couldn't agree more," Gabriel said. "And next year, you'll be in the States with me."
"I hope so," Alexa said. "I still have to get into the school."
"You will," Gabriel said loyally.
"And you still have to promise to show me around," Alexa teased him. "Not ditch me because I'm some lowly freshman."
"I would never do that," Gabriel said nudging her. "I'd just make you carry my books."
Alexa laughed. "So is that a subtle hint I should start lifting weights?"
"I didn't think it was all that subtle," Gabriel said chuckling.
Alexa nudged him. "Smartarse."
Gabriel pulled her close. "You think Saffy will be okay?"
"I hope so," Alexa sobered for a moment. "I feel guilty being so happy with you while she's so upset."
"I still can't believe she and Andrew broke up," Gabriel said. "I thought they were so tight."
"Me too," Alexa said quietly. "I wish Saffy would stop blaming RJ for their break-up though."
"I'm not his biggest fan, by any stretch of the imagination," Gabriel said. "But you don't believe he said those things in that article. Andrew said he didn't. Saffron just wanted to believe the worst."
"And it cost her, her relationship to Andrew," Alexa shook her head and sighed. "Let's talk about something else."
"I can talk about how beautiful my girlfriend is," Gabriel said with a grin.
Alexa laughed. "I like that topic."
"And how happy I am that we're finally together," Gabriel continued.
"I'm happy too," Alexa said as he stopped walking.
"That's all I want," Gabriel said pulling her to him. "For you to be happy."
She smiled at him. "I am... right now I think I'm the happiest girl around."
Gabriel grinned at her before leaning in and pressing his lips to hers.
Alexa closed her eyes and kissed him back, pressing her body against his.
This was what Gabriel had wanted to do with her since the moment he'd seen her that morning.
"Mmmm..." she murmured, opening her lips under his.
"Lexie," Gabriel whispered when they pulled apart.
"Hmm?" she asked, her eyes only half open.
"Nothing," Gabriel said softly. "I'm just really, really happy right now."
"Me too," she grinned at him before kissing him again.
Gabriel deepened the kiss, his arms snaking around her waist.
Alexa tried to pull him closer, pressing her lips to his even harder.
Gabriel still couldn't believe they were actually together. The letters they'd written over the last few weeks were great, but it was nothing compared to having her in his arms.
"I've missed doing things like this," Alexa said between kisses. "I got kind of spoiled at Easter with you."
"Me too," Gabriel said taking her hand. "But we have the whole summer."
"All summer," Alexa said dreamily, giving him another kiss.
"Hopefully my stepmother will leave us alone," Gabriel teased.
"She means well," Alexa laughed.
"She probably already has our children's names planned out," Gabriel joked.
"You mean you don't?" Alexa returned.
"I've given my ideas to Lavender," Gabriel said dryly.
Alexa poked him. "But you won't tell me?" she asked dramatically.
"You just have to have the babies," Gabriel said trying hard not to laugh. "I get to name them."
"Is that so?" Alexa asked, her eyebrow raised.
Gabriel nodded. "That's the rule."
"That's not my rule," Alexa kept a straight face.
"What's your rule then?" Gabriel asked.
"I get everything," Alexa replied.
"Including ice cream," Gabriel said as they came upon the ice cream stand. "What do you think Saffy would like?"
"Anything with chocolate," Alexa studied the list of flavours. "The double dark chocolate peanut butter caramel for her."
Gabriel looked at her. "That's an actual flavour?"
"It's right there," Alexa pointed.
"So it is," Gabriel said shaking his head.
"What can I get you?" the attendant asked.
"Double dark chocolate peanut butter caramel in a cup," Gabriel said. "And I'll take a chocolate cone. Lexie, what do you want?"
"Um..." Alexa scanned the list. "Strawberry cone, please?"
"Coming right up," the attendant said.
"I'll have to remember to take Emma here tomorrow," Gabriel told Alexa. "I promised her I would."
Alexa grinned at him. "She thinks you hung the moon."
"She's such a sweet kid," Gabriel said grinning back at her. "I couldn't say no."
"It's because YOU are so sweet," Alexa gave him a kiss.
Gabriel paid for the order and the two of them set off back toward the beach house.
"It was really nice of you to buy Saffy's ice cream," Alexa said.
"She is my cousin," Gabriel said. "And I want her to feel better."
Alexa leaned against him as she bit her cone.
They didn't say much else on the way back. They were content just to be together. When they arrived back at the house, the adults were in the sitting room talking. According to them, Saffron hadn't come out of her room. Alexa excused herself to go and give her friend the ice cream.
"Hey," she knocked on the door with her free hand. "I have ice cream for you Saffy. Gabe bought you double dark chocolate peanut butter caramel."
Saffron opened the door. "Hey...he didn't have to do that."
"He's worried about you," Alexa handed her the bag. "And he wants you to feel better."
"That's so sweet," Saffron said opening the bag and pulling out the container. "This actually looks quite good."
"He's taking Emma there tomorrow," Alexa plopped down on her bed.
"Em's first crush," Saffron said. "Maybe I should tell her that they all eventually grow up and break your heart."
"Right now you're just jaded is all," Alexa said. "Saffy you'll feel better soon and you'll date again."
"I think I remember saying the same thing to you when you and RJ broke up," Saffron mused.
Alexa smiled. "It was good advice."
"I've been up here thinking," Saffron said setting her ice cream aside. "And this really was my fault."
Alexa raised her eyebrows in surprise. "Really?"
Saffron nodded. "I still think RJ's a wanker, but I should never have let my feelings toward him get in the way of what Andrew and I had."
"That's good you realise that," Alexa encouraged. "Maybe if you tell Andrew that, you can work things out."
Saffron shook her head. "I'm not sure that would be enough, Lexie. And I just can't explain it. But I don't think I could ever find a way to get along with RJ. I hate him. I really, really hate him."
It wasn't what she had hoped to hear. "Saffy--"
"We've always been honest with each other, Lex," Saffron said quietly. "I wanted to try, but every time I see him, I remember what he did. I know, I know that you're over it now and you've moved on, but I just can't forget what he did. And how he just seems to land on his feet while everyone else suffers."
"But he's not a bad guy," Alexa stuck up for her ex boyfriend. "He went through a spell, that's all. I have Gabe now and I'm very happy with him. I hope RJ can find someone he's happy with again as well."
Saffron continued on like she hadn't even heard Alexa. "You know what my dad said? He's an 18-year old boy. What do you expect? Well, you know what? I expected a hell of a lot more than what I got!"
"Saffy," Alexa said. "He wasn't your boyfriend, okay? He was mine. And I'm over what happened. I think it's time you got over it too."
Saffron glared at her. "You are such a doormat, Alexa."
"Hey," Alexa stood up. "Don't take this out on me! I'm your friend, and I'm here to support you. But don't you dare scream at me because you're upset!"
"He cheated on you with Christina and then you took him back," Saffron argued, knowing she should shut up, but she couldn't help it. "And then he cheats on you with Serena Starr of all people. I imagine if Gabe hadn't been in the wings, you'd have taken him back too!"
Alexa shook her head. "Enjoy your ice cream Saffy. I'm not sticking around to listen to you."
"Get out then!" Saffron yelled.
"FINE!" Alexa shouted back. She left the room and slammed the door behind her.
Saffron fell back onto her bed and started to cry again. She didn't know why she'd said the things she'd said. It wasn't how she truly felt. But, she was hurting and she wanted everyone to feel as bad as she did. In all the years that she and Alexa had been friends, they'd never had a major argument.
"Baby what's wrong with me?" she asked her dog, who crawled next to her and laid his head on her stomach.
She could certainly understand if Alexa didn't want to speak to her ever again after the things she'd said.
Alexa was fuming as she went back downstairs. If her so called best friend thought she was a doormat and too forgiving, she certainly had another thing coming!
"Alexa?" Julie asked. "Everything okay?"
"Not really," Alexa shook her head. "Saffron's in a rotten mood and she's taking it out on me."
Julie sighed. "Maybe I should have a word with my little sister."
"I don't think it'd do any good," Alexa sat down in a chair.
"You and Saffron have never fought to my knowledge," Julie said sitting down. "Whatever she said, I'm sure she didn't mean it."
"She called me a doormat," Alexa shook her head. "And she's got this stupid excuse for a grudge against RJ. I'm sick of it."
"You can bunk with Ashley tonight if you'd like," Julie offered.
"Maybe," Alexa shrugged. "Thanks Julie."
Julie excused herself to go upstairs. She knocked on her sister's door. "Saffron Grace?"
Saffron heard her sister, but didn't acknowledge it.
Julie opened the door and stepped inside the room. Her sister's back was to her, but Julie wasn't going to be deterred.
"Pretend you're asleep if you'd like," Julie said sitting down on the edge of the bed. "But there's something you need to know. What happened to you was heartbreaking. And we all know you're hurting. If we could do something to make you feel better, we would. But, you're pushing everyone you love away from you when all they want to do is help."
Saffron closed her eyes and bit down on her lower lip to keep from crying even more than she already was.
"She's your best friend in the world," Julie said patting her sister's back. "I think you know what you should do."
"No one understands," Saffron sobbed.
"I do," Julie said softly. "You remember me telling you about my ex-boyfriend Ryan?"
"I think so," Saffron turned finally to face her sister.
"He was my first serious boyfriend," Julie explained. "I met him at University. We were really close, Saffy. I spent all my free time with him, but I never told him that I was magical. He was a Muggle and I wasn't sure how he'd take it. I thought that I should tell him the truth before things went any further. I was so afraid of how he'd react, but Chiaki told me he wouldn't care because he loved me so much."
"But you told him and he blew you off, right?" Saffron wiped her eyes.
Julie nodded. "He said some really horrible things to me and I don't ever remember feeling that hurt. I was so upset that when I came home, I couldn't even tell mum and dad what was wrong. I holed myself up in my room until mum made me come out. When I told her and Dad, Dad went ballistic. I thought he was going to kill Ryan, but instead he went to Ryan's flat and performed a memory erasing charm on him."
Saffron was quiet. "I wish someone could put one on me. Then I wouldn't have to feel this bad."
Julie reached for her sister's hand. "No, you don't. You and Andrew had some good times, too. You don't want to forget that, Saffron. And no matter how bad you feel, it's no excuse to treat your friends and family like dirt."
Saffron sighed. "I shouldn't have screamed at Lexie. She was just trying to help."
"There's the Saffron I know and love," Julie said giving her a hug.
Saffron hugged her sister. "I just hate feeling like this Jules. I miss Andrew so, so much."
"I know you do," Julie said. "But it will get better."
Alexa knocked gently on the door. "Don't worry. I'm not staying. I'm just going to get my pyjamas."
"Wait Lexie," Saffron got up. "I'm really sorry. I shouldn't have said those things to you."
Julie stood up, too. "I think I'll just go and check on the girls. Good night, Saffy, Lexie."
"Thanks Jules," Saffron said quietly.
Alexa set about quietly getting her pyjamas and her toothbrush.
"Please don't leave," Saffron said. "Lexie I didn't mean any of those things I said. Not even about RJ."
"You hurt my feelings," Alexa said rounding on her. "You called me a doormat!"
Saffron looked properly shamed. "I know. I was really awful just now to you. And I'm really, really sorry."
"You were a right cow to me," Alexa said her tone much softer.
Saffron nodded, tears pricking her eyes again. "I wouldn't blame you for turning your back and walking out of here," she said, her voice shaking.
Alexa opened her arms. "Even when you're being a cow, you're still my best friend."
"Really?" Saffron asked hopefully. "You'll forgive me?"
Alexa nodded and gave her friend a hug. "I'll roll out the doormat for you one more time."
"Thanks Lexie," Saffron hugged her friend tightly. "You're my best friend in the entire world. I love you to death, you know that."
"I love you too," Alexa said. "And I hate that you feel so bad, Saffy."
"I just miss him so much," Saffron's voice quivered. "I thought we would never break up."
"I know," Alexa said sympathetically.
"How did you do it?" Saffron asked.
"I had you," Alexa said smiling at her.
Saffron sat back down on her bed. "I just never thought it was possible to feel this bad..."
"I felt the same way," Alexa told her. "But you just give it one day at a time and it will get easier."
"I hope so," Saffron scratched behind Puddles's ears.
"We can talk about something else if you'd like," Alexa said. "Like when you'll be getting your Head Girl letter. You know Mary Ellen is going to have to eat crow..."
Saffron had to smile. "I hope so. I wonder if Jules knows."
"She's not going to tell if she does," Alexa said. "But you know you're a shoe-in."
"I have to be head girl," Saffron said fervently.
"It's in the bag," Alexa said loyally. "You have better marks than she does. I heard her complaining to one of her friends that she didn't think she did too well in her charms final."
"Charms?" Saffron asked. "But that exam was so easy!"
"Not for Mary Ellen," Alexa grinned.
Saffron smiled back. "I think... despite all this... that our seventh year is going to be our best one yet. I mean, we're the top of the school!"
"Absolutely," Alexa said. "Gosh...it seems surreal, doesn't it? We'll be starting our seventh and final year in just a couple of months."
"I wonder if I can balance being Head Girl with being Quidditch captain," Saffron said thoughtfully.
"Ethan did, didn't he?" Alexa asked.
Saffron nodded. "And I'm loads smarter than he is."
"Everyone in your family is super smart," Alexa said.
"We'll get to rule the school," Saffron replied with a smile.
"Yes we will," Alexa agreed. "And tomorrow, you are coming to the arcade with Gabe and me. And we'll see if Ashley wants to come with."
Saffron nodded. "Okay," she agreed. "I don't want to wallow like this."
"No wallowing anymore," Alexa said offering her friend her pinky finger. "Come on, Potter."
Saffron hooked her pinky with Alexa's. "You'll help me if I get in a funk? I promise not to be hurtful anymore."
"What are best friends for?" Alexa asked.
"Things like this," Saffron replied. "I can't imagine you not being here Lexie."
"I'm not going anywhere," Alexa said. "Come on, we should get ready for bed."
"Right," Saffron pulled out her pyjamas. "I have to let Puddles out before we go to sleep."
"Ooh," Alexa said with a grin. "That means I get to use the loo first."
"Hey wait!" Saffron squealed as Alexa ran from the room and across the hall.
"Not fast enough," Alexa called out from behind the bathroom door.
"Come on baby," Saffron said to her dog. "I'll let you go first too."
Puddles happily followed Saffron out of the bedroom and down the stairs.
"Hi sweetheart," Hermione said as her daughter came into the foyer. "How are you feeling?"
"Hi, Mum," Saffron said. "I'm doing better."
"Good," Hermione hugged her. "I'm glad to see a smile on your face."
"I'm going to put my wallowing behind me and try to enjoy the summer," Saffron said. "Lexie and Julie helped turn me around."
"Good for them," Hermione smoothed back her hair. "I'm proud of you baby."
"Thanks, Mum," Saffron said. "I'm sorry for how I treated everyone."
"I think everyone understands," Hermione nodded.
"Where's Daddy?" Saffron asked. "I was going to take Puddles out before I went to bed."
"He was just making sure the grill was out completely before we all turned in," Hermione looked back towards the kitchen. "Did you want him to walk you out there?"
"Yeah," Saffron replied. "That'd be nice."
"I'm sure he'd love to do it," Hermione smiled. "He's right out back."
Saffron retrieved Puddles' leash and then led him out onto the deck. "Daddy?"
Harry looked up. "Hi sweetheart."
"I'm just taking Pud out," Saffron told him.
"Want me to go with you?" Harry offered.
"You wouldn't mind?"
"Of course not," Harry chuckled. "You already know you have me wrapped around your little finger Saffy."
Saffron smiled. "Thanks, Daddy.'
Harry put an arm around her. "I'm glad to see you out of your room."
"Me too," Saffron said leaning against him.
"I heard Alexa talk about going to the arcade tomorrow," Harry said conversationally. "You going with them?"
Saffron nodded. "We're going to get Ash to come along."
"She'll enjoy that," Harry said. "I think she feels kind of lost here since there's no one her age around."
"I'll make more of an effort to include her," Saffron promised.
"She really looks up to you," Harry told her.
"I haven't done much to set a good example today," Saffron admitted.
"If you ask me, I think Ash is upset too. She denied it, but she had a crush on Andrew." Harry remarked.
Saffron nodded. "I'd forgotten about that, but you're right, Dad."
"She just wants you to be happy as well," Harry said as Puddles did his duty. "Come on, we should get back to the house."
Saffron looked at her father. "I want what you and mum have, Dad."
"You'll have it someday, Saffy," Harry told her. "I know you won't settle for anything less."
Saffron gave him a big hug. "Thanks, Daddy. I love you."
"I love you too baby," Harry kissed the top of her head.
"Good night," Saffron said to him.
"Night Saffy," Harry smiled at her. "Sleep well."
Harry turned out the rest of the lights and then headed upstairs to join his wife.
"I'm so happy she's feeling better," Hermione said as Harry came in. "Did you have a nice walk?"
Harry nodded. "She seemed more like her old self."
"That's good," Hermione crawled into the bed.
Harry stripped down to his boxers before joining his wife. "Jules still isn't talking to me."
Hermione frowned. "I'm as surprised as you are to learn about Oliver Wood... but it's not our place to get into it. Julie can handle it."
"I keep trying to tell myself that," Harry said. "But---I mean, he's my friend and I find out that he fancies my daughter!"
"I think it's more from him being a bachelor and all of a sudden having a younger woman there with him all the time," Hermione said. "It's infatuation, nothing more."
"It'd better be," Harry said putting his arm around his wife. "Who would have ever thought we'd see the day where WE were the sane ones?"
Hermione laughed. "I don't know. When did we get older?"
"When we had kids and they started having kids," Harry said pulling her close.
"It'll really hit me when the grandkids start having kids," Hermione snuggled against him.
"Luckily that's a long way's off," Harry said closing his eyes.
"I certainly hope so," Hermione ran her fingers over his chest. "But I know one thing that's never going to change."
"What's that?" Harry asked.
"How much I love you," she answered softly.
"I love you too," Harry said kissing her.
*** *** ***
RJ felt bad for his best mate. He felt even worse knowing that he was part of the reason Andrew and Saffron had broken up, even though Andrew had told him several times that it wasn't true.
"Come on," RJ coaxed. "Let's just go out for a round or two. I'll even buy. It'll just be us guys."
"I don't feel like it," Andrew said. "I appreciate it, but I just don't feel like going out."
"Pizza then?" RJ suggested.
Andrew shook his head.
"Okay," RJ said defeatedly. "If you change your mind--"
"I know you're just trying to help," Andrew interrupted. "But I just feel like I made such a huge mistake."
"You could go to Brighton and tell her that you want to get back together," RJ suggested.
"I just got sick of her bitching about you," Andrew replied. "I gave her an ultimatum because that's what I felt like she was giving me."
"I can handle Saf," RJ told him. "She and I never got along anyway."
Andrew sighed and rubbed his forehead. "I can't stop thinking about her."
"Go to Brighton and get her back," RJ said. "It's simple."
"It's not that simple," Andrew told him. "She may be the girl I love, but you're my best mate. And if she can't accept that you're sticking around, then I can't be with her."
"I didn't ask you to do that, Andrew," RJ said quietly.
"I know you didn't," Andrew shook his head. "But that Howler she sent was the last straw. She didn't even wait to hear if it was true or not before flying off the handle and screaming at you. She may as well have taken it out on me."
"She's still going to blame me," RJ said. "So every family gathering from here until the day I die, she's going to shoot me looks that could kill."
Andrew shrugged. "Guess it's a lost cause..."
"You and Saffy belong together, mate," RJ said. "Everyone knows that. I don't want to be the reason you two aren't together."
"If you were the only reason we were fighting, then I think we'd still be together," Andrew pointed out. "It just felt like there was something else wrong- like she didn't understand or respect my opinion on things."
"I really am sorry," RJ said. "If I hadn't been so stupid the two of you might not have found yourselves in this place."
"You aren't stupid," Andrew told his friend. "Maybe the fame went to your head in the beginning, but you got over it."
"Thankfully," RJ said with a grin.
"Are you still upset that Lex is with Gabe now?" Andrew asked.
RJ leaned against the counter. "I'm not happy about it, but I don't really have a say in who she's with, do I? If she's happy with him, I guess I'm okay with that."
Andrew shoved back his chair and stood up. "You know what? Let's go out. Let's go have that round. I'm tired of talking about this."
"Great idea," RJ said. "I'll owl Jason and see if he wants to meet us."
"Thanks," Andrew went to change clothes. In his bedroom, his eyes fell on a picture of himself and Saffron sitting on his bedside table.
It was one of his favourite photographs of the two of them together. They'd been so happy then.
He picked it up and looked at it for a few long moments. Merlin, he missed her.
For a few seconds, he contemplated calling the beach house. He had the number. But, if he knew his girlfriend, she hadn't changed her mind.
"Ex girlfriend," he reminded himself glumly, putting the photo face down on the table.
"Okay," RJ said. "Jason's meeting us at Jon's pub. You ready?"
"Just a minute," Andrew pulled off his dirty t shirt and pulled on a clean one.
A few minutes later, the two of them left the flat and walked the short distance to Jon's pub. His brother was in Brighton, but Victoria greeted them warmly.
"I thought you'd have been in Brighton," Victoria said to RJ.
"Not this year," RJ replied. "Couldn't get the time off work."
"Well, I'm always glad to see you, of course," Victoria said. "And you too, Andrew."
"Thanks," Andrew smiled at her. "I really like coming here- it's a great pub."
"Thanks in no small part to RJ's brother," Victoria said. "And Allie's new menu."
"Speaking of which," RJ snagged a menu. "Andrew here wants the pub specialty pizza while I'll have a double decker club."
"Coming right up," Victoria said with a grin.
A few moments later a completely flustered looking Jason came into the pub. His wedding to Monica was a few weeks away and he looked like he'd about had it.
"Thank you both for getting me out of the house," Jason said. "Monica, her mum, and my mum were arguing over the seating chart for the reception."
"You're in the final stretch," RJ teased him. "It's August third, right?"
"Right," Jason said. "That's the only thought that keeps me going."
"Where are you going on your honeymoon?" Andrew asked.
"We're just going to have a weekend at a bed and breakfast," Jason said. "We're spending most of our money on the wedding so we can't splurge on the honeymoon."
"Come on," RJ said. "You two have got to go somewhere nice for at least a week."
"Maybe if I was a Quidditch superstar like you two," Jason said. "But I'm not and Mon's still in university. Can't afford it right now."
"Well let us know if you need help with anything," Andrew offered, sliding a pint over to him.
Jason nodded. "Thanks. I'm just going to go and put my food order in. Be right back."
"Feeling any better?" RJ asked Andrew.
"A little," Andrew lied. "It's good to get out though and stop sulking."
"Good," RJ said encouragingly. "And once Quidditch starts, you'll be so busy you won't have time to mope."
"You mean when I get the chance to kick your arse again?" Andrew asked cheekily.
"And that's all it'll be," RJ replied. "A chance. It's not happening, Kirke."
"You just keep thinking that," Andrew said feeling a little better. "And we should probably think about planning Jase's stag weekend."
RJ nodded. "We'll be nice and not take him to the really bad strip joints."
"Monica would love that," Andrew said.
"What are you two talking about?" Jason asked rejoining them.
"Your stag weekend," RJ slapped him on the back.
Jason grinned. "My last weekend as a free man."
"No shit," RJ nodded. "I still can't believe you're getting married."
"I can't believe there's a woman out there who'd have you," Andrew joked.
"What about you?" Jason nodded at him. "You've got Saffron Potter practically all over you."
The smile on Andrew's face fell.
"Jase, Andrew and Saf broke up," RJ explained.
"Shite," Jason's grin turned to shock. "I'm sorry mate..."
"It's okay," Andrew said stoically. "It's for the best."
"How?" Jason asked. "You and Saffron are made for each other."
"Just didn't work out," Andrew said quietly.
RJ made eye contact with Jason and quickly shook his head. "Um... "He tried to think of something to change the subject.
Luckily, Victoria came over with their food. "It's on the house, boys."
"Hey thanks Victoria," RJ said appreciatively. "This looks bloody fantastic."
"You're quite welcome," Victoria said. "Andrew, you let me know what you think of that pizza."
"I will," Andrew nodded. "Thanks."
"Do you get to eat free all the time?" Jason asked once Victoria had left.
"I wish," RJ stuff half his sandwich in his mouth. "If Jon or Victoria is here then usually they'll make it on the house. But if one of the other blokes is here then I'll pay."
"Helps to have connections," Andrew said. "During Christmas hols, Saf and I came in here---"
He realised what he said and snapped his mouth shut. "Never mind..."
"How do you like the pizza?" RJ asked, trying to change the subject.
"It's great," Andrew replied. "Made me realise how hungry I am."
"Told you so," RJ said before eating one of his crisps.
"These pasties are fucking good," Jason was wolfing them down. "Your sister in law sure knows her food."
"Allie's a great cook," RJ said. "About as good as Nana. No wonder Em always wants to eat."
Andrew smiled as he thought of RJ's little niece. "She's a sweet kid."
"Maybe I should get her to come over more often," RJ said. "It's hard to be depressed and moody around Em."
"That's true," Andrew nodded. "And if she thinks you're upset she'll cheer you right up."
Jason groaned suddenly. "Here we go again."
"What?" RJ asked.
"Ever since I became engaged, all these girls are starting to come on to me," Jason said morosely. "That girl that took my order, for instance. Look---she's coming over here."
"Maybe she's not coming over here for you," Andrew said. "And how would she know you were engaged?"
"I don't know," Jason shrugged. "I think it's some sort of girl radar. They know when a bloke isn't available so they hit on him. You should know, McDreamy."
The waitress was tall and slender with shoulder-length brown hair. RJ couldn't remember ever seeing her in here before and he wondered if perhaps she was new.
"Can I get you lot another round?" she asked.
Before either of them could stop him, Jason stood up and held up his hands. "I think I should tell you that I'm engaged."
She gave him a quizzical look. "O-kay. Does that prevent you from wanting another round?"
RJ grinned at her. "I'll take another. Jase over here is cut off."
"Me too," Andrew said.
"Sure," she said smiling at them. "I'll be right back."
RJ laughed at Jason as he sunk into his chair. "You got busted."
Jason glared at him. "So, I made a mistake."
"A big one," RJ guffawed.
"Shut it," Jason grumbled.
RJ turned and looked after the pretty waitress. "I'll have to ask my brother about her," he said thoughtfully.
"I thought you were on the whole 'I want to be alone' kick," Jason said.
"I just think she's cute," RJ replied.
"Here she comes," Andrew said quietly.
"Here you go," the girl set the drinks down. "Sure I can't get you anything before you're tied down?" she teased Jason.
Jason blushed. "Well, not for me, but my friend here was wondering what your name was..."
"Audrey," she said with an easy smile.
"Have you worked here long?" RJ asked.
"A few weeks," she replied.
"My brother's partners with Victoria," RJ told her. "Jon Weasley?"
She smiled. "That's why you look familiar. You're not the twin, obviously, so you must be ...D.J.?
"RJ," he stood up and gave her a charming grin.
"Nice to meet you," she said smiling back at him.
"We're chopped liver," Jason said waving his hand at her.
"I thought something smelled appetizing over here," Audrey returned.
Andrew laughed. "That's chopped liver and I'm Andrew Kirke."
"Nice to meet you as well," Audrey replied. "How's your pizza?"
"Great," Andrew replied.
"So, what do you do when you're not here, Audrey?" Jason asked.
Audrey shrugged. "Usually I'm out with some friends. I really like going to the movies."
"I haven't had a chance to see any good films lately," RJ said. "Have you?"
"I just saw the new Seamus Finnigan one," she told him. "It was amazing."
"I know him," RJ replied. "He's a pretty cool bloke."
"You know him?" Audrey asked. "Yeah, right..."
"I swear," RJ replied. "He's actually in Brighton at the family's beach house right now. He'll be around here most of the summer."
"With his son, Gabriel," Jason said leaning back in his chair. "Who's now going out with RJ's ex who is best friends with Andrew's ex...."
RJ gave him a dirty look. "Hey, is that Monica over there?" he pointed.
"Where?" Jason asked looking wildly around.
RJ snorted. "You really are already married..."
Audrey laughed. "Well, I'll leave you boys to it. Let me know if you need anything else."
"I will," RJ replied. "I mean... we will."
"I bet she's Muggle," Jason said after she'd gone.
"Probably..." RJ replied, tearing his gaze away.
"I thought we were here to help Andrew wallow?" Jason asked.
"Andrew isn't wallowing," Andrew said. "If RJ sees a girl he fancies, I think he should go for it."
"I've never dated a Muggle girl before," RJ said thoughtfully.
"Why don't you go over there and ask her if she wants to see your wand?" Jason asked.
"Very funny," RJ replied. "I'll write to Jon and ask about her."
"Playing it cool," Jason said. "Sounds good."
RJ sneaked another look back at the bar. Audrey was up there laughing at something Victoria was saying.
Jason looked at his watch. "I'd better go. I promised Monica I'd be back."
"You are so already married," RJ chuckled. "You may as well slap a real ball and chain on your ankle."
"Very funny," Jason said throwing some bills down on the table. "You'll be the same when you get married."
"Won't happen for awhile," RJ answered.
"I'll see you," Jason said.
"Later mate," Andrew nodded.
"So you feeling better?" RJ asked his friend.
"Yeah," Andrew nodded. "Thanks RJ. I appreciate it."
"It's the least I could do," RJ said.
Andrew shook his head. "You can't blame yourself for me and Saffron breaking up."
"Hard not to," RJ said quietly. "I know how much you love her, mate."
"Yeah well..." Andrew sighed.
"Call her," RJ said.
"No," Andrew said. "She won't talk to me."
"She might," RJ said. "Come on. Vic'll let you use the phone."
"I don't think it's such a good idea--" Andrew began.
RJ shrugged. "If I know Saffy, she's probably sulking like you were before I dragged you out of the flat."
"I doubt Alexa would let her," Andrew said as RJ nearly dragged him to the bar.
"Audrey," RJ said. "Can we borrow your phone?"
"Maybe," Audrey said with a grin.
RJ grinned back at her. "Please? My friend here wants to make up with his girlfriend."
"I suppose its okay, if it's true love," Audrey said dramatically.
"I think this is a terrible idea," Andrew said as Audrey handed RJ the telephone.
RJ dialled the number of the beach house. "Its ringing." he thrust it at him.
Andrew sighed and took the receiver. It rang a couple more times before someone answered.
"Hello?" a man's voice answered. Andrew recognised the Australian accent straightaway.
"Nick, it's me, Andrew," Andrew said. "Is...Is Saffron there?"
"Andrew?" Nick asked. "Um... yeah she's just upstairs."
"Can I speak with her?" Andrew asked.
Nick paused for a moment. He didn't want to upset his sister in law when she had finally just come out of the room.
"Nick?" Andrew asked hesitantly.
"Just tell me you didn't call here to hurt her again," Nick told him.
"I didn't," Andrew said hastily.
"Just a minute," Nick put the phone down.
Andrew looked at RJ. "He's going to get her."
RJ nodded encouragingly. "You can work this out. I know you can."
Andrew nodded. It seemed like he waited an eternity but finally he heard her voice.
"H-hello?"
"Saffy?" Andrew plugged his ear so he could hear better.
"What do you want?" she asked quietly.
"I um..." Andrew tried to think of something to say. "I miss you."
Saffron was silent for a few moments.
Andrew blew out his breath. "I hate that things are like this."
"You---where are you?" Saffron asked. "At a party?"
"We're at Jon's pub," Andrew told her.
"You and---" Saffron asked. "RJ?"
"Yeah," Andrew replied, turning and walking down the side of the bar, hoping to find some quieter space to talk in.
"Oh," Saffron said. "You know it's hard to get over you when you call me like this."
"Saffy," Andrew sighed. "I meant it when I said I miss you. I think we could try and work things out."
"Maybe you should have thought about that before you gave me that ultimatum," Saffron said. "I miss you too, but you know how I feel about RJ."
"Saffy, you were giving me an ultimatum too, even if you never said it out loud," Andrew objected.
"I suppose," she reluctantly admitted.
"Look, can't we just meet up and talk?" Andrew asked.
He thought she was going to turn him down because she didn't say anything for a long time.
"Okay," she finally said. "When?"
"This weekend?" Andrew suggested. "I'll come to Brighton."
"Don't come to the house," Saffron told him. "I'll meet you at the arcade Saturday around noon."
"Oh... okay." Andrew replied. "The arcade it is then."
"It's strange being here without you," Saffron said softly.
"I wish I was there already," Andrew replied. "Saf, I still love you. You know that, right?"
"I still love you too," Saffron admitted.
"I really think if we can talk with level heads, we can work everything out," Andrew said. "I really want to."
"Me too," Saffron said. "Good night, Andrew."
"Bye Saf," Andrew hung up the phone, feeling better than he had all day.
"Wait, what's this?" RJ teased. "Is he grinning? Things went well?"
"She agreed to meet me," Andrew said.
"Good for you," Audrey said smiling at him.
"Saffron's a really great girl," Andrew explained.
"Somewhere in Brighton, there are a bunch of Potters, Malfoys and Finnigans who are breathing a sigh of relief," RJ teased.
"Sounds like quite the get together," Audrey leaned on the bar. "Why aren't you blokes there?"
"We had to work," RJ said which was partly true. If this girl was a Muggle, he certainly couldn't tell her they were professional Quidditch players. For one thing, she wouldn't know what that was and for another, if he told her what it was, she'd think he was mental.
"I see," Audrey replied. "Well I'm glad you both took time out of your busy schedules to stop by tonight." she smiled at both of them, but her eyes skipped to RJ.
"Me too," RJ said smiling back at her. "It was nice meeting you, Audrey."
"You as well," Audrey replied. "I'll have your brother give me all the dirt on you when he comes back."
"Don't believe a word of it," RJ said.
Audrey laughed. "Come back soon. I'll buy you a drink." she smiled at him again.
"I'll take you up on that," RJ said.
"Glad you're feeling better, Andrew," Audrey said before leaving to check on her tables.
Andrew watched her go. "Damn," he shook his head. "You work fast."
"I didn't do anything," RJ said innocently. "And I can't pine away for Lexie forever. She's moved on. I think it's time I did the same."
"That's good," Andrew nodded. "Hey, what's that?" he looked over at a little slip of paper in front of his friend.
RJ picked it up and unfolded it. He grinned. "Her number."
Andrew laughed. "Nice..."
"Let's go home," RJ said. "Early start tomorrow."
"For me too," Andrew said as they left the pub.
Back at the Brighton beach house, Saffron needed someone to talk to about that phone call and what this all meant. Alexa was out with Gabe and Julie was out on the deck with Nick and the girls. Saffron went into the sitting room and was happy to see her mother and father. "Mum?"
"Hi sweetheart," Hermione smiled at her daughter.
Harry looked at her. "Everything okay, love?"
Saffron nodded. "Yeah, actually, things are good right now. Andrew's coming Saturday so we can try and work things out."
Hermione smiled. "That's great, Saffy."
Saffron nodded. "I hope it'll all be okay."
"Just listen to each other," Hermione told her. "And keep a level head and an open mind."
"I'll try," Saffron said. "But no matter what he says, I'm not going to be friends with RJ."
"No one's asking you to," Hermione said. "But you can find some way to peacefully co-exist."
Saffron shrugged. "I just want to be with Andrew again."
"We just want you to be happy," Harry said patting the empty space between he and his wife. "Come here, sweetheart."
Saffron gladly sat between them. "I'm so glad you guys are my parents," she said.
Harry put his arm around her. "We're kind of fond of you too."
Saffron grinned. "You're just both pretty cool, is all I'm saying. Some parents are old and annoying, but you two aren't."
"Did you hear that, Hermione?" Harry asked. "We're cool."
"I think it means I can retire as Minister," Hermione teased. "Because all my life, I just wanted to be cool."
Saffron giggled. "You're all set now, Mum."
Hermione kissed the side of her daughter's head. "I know we always tell you this, but your dad and I really are proud of you Saffy."
"I'm sorry for how I acted earlier," Saffron said. "I know you guys were just looking out for me."
"We know you were hurting," Harry told her.
"It's still no excuse," Saffron said leaning against her mother.
Ethan came into the sitting room and put his hand to his heart. "She's smiling!"
"Very funny," Saffron threw a pillow at him.
Ethan caught it and flung it back at her. Saffron ducked in time, but it hit Hermione.
"Ethan James!"
"Sorry Mum," Ethan said sheepishly. "Meant to hit the brat."
"Get him, Mum," Saffron urged.
Hermione threw the pillow back at her son, who ducked, but was hit by one from Harry.
"Dad!" Ethan protested. "No fair!"
Harry laughed. "A good Auror never turns his back." he joked.
"Not with the two wicked witches around," Ethan said throwing the pillow back at Saffron.
"I am not a wicked witch!" Saffron squealed, pummelling her older brother.
Ethan fell to the floor. "You are, Saffron Grace!"
"Ethan you suck!" Saffron summoned several of the couch cushions to continuously hit him.
"At least I'm not a brat," Ethan said turning the tables on his sister and tickling her.
"ETHAN!" Saffron was laughing too hard to say anything else.
Hermione shook her head. "Be careful. I don't want anyone to get hurt!"
Harry chuckled. "It's good to hear her laugh like that."
"Saf fights like a girl anyway," Ethan taunted.
"I am a girl you nitwit," Saffron replied.
"Nitwit?" Ethan asked tickling her side again. "You're a nitwit. Maybe I'll tell Alexa and Gabe about your imaginary friend that you used to have....what was his name?"
"Sod off," Saffron hit his shoulder. "You were the one who nicknamed Maddie Princess Cruella."
"OW!" Ethan yelped. "Saffy----"
"Her imaginary friend's name was Maurice," Harry remembered.
Hermione laughed. "Where on earth did you come up with a name like Maurice?"
"You remember, Mum," Ethan said sitting up. "That was the name of that male model who was giving Aunt Lav a hard time about some show. Saffy liked his name...Maurice, Maurice, Maurice!"
"Shut up!" Saffron hit him again. "I did not have an imaginary friend! I just liked the name!"
"You made Greta set a place for him at the table," Ethan teased.
Saffron glared at him. "What about the time you pulled up the floorboards in my room to make a moat?" she fired back, changing the subject.
"I was protecting you," Ethan said defensively.
"From the monsters," Saffron rolled her eyes. "I can't believe you thought there were monsters in your closet and under my bed."
"I was eight years old," Ethan told her. "And I was trying to protect my baby sister."
"It was sweet," Hermione said. "Although, I find it interesting no one ever told me about this moat..."
"Um, I didn't know about it until after he'd done it," Harry said sheepishly. "And I made him fix it..."
Hermione shook her head. "Wouldn't do me much good to get angry now would it?"
"Go ahead Mum," Saffron said. "Get angry at Ethan."
"Saf," Ethan said nudging her. "How about you and I quit while we're behind?"
"You're behind," Saffron said with a devilish grin. "I wonder what your mate Justin would say if I told him you were afraid of me."
"I am not afraid of you," Ethan said quietly. "Much."
"Yeah right," Saffron smiled at him.
"You are a bit scary," Ethan said. "You and Mum both...you get this look in your eyes...just like she does... "
"Ethan James!" Hermione exclaimed. "I am not scary!"
"You kind of are," Harry said.
"Harry James!" Hermione turned on her husband.
Harry shrugged. "Almost as scary as your Grandpa Malcolm."
Saffron laughed. "I kind of like being scary."
"You just like having people be afraid of you," Ethan said tickling her again.
"That too," Saffron giggled. "But I guess I could never be TOO mean to you Ethan. You're just lucky you're my brother."
"Don't I know it, brat," Ethan said giving her a hug.
"Just don't let it get around I'm a softie," Saffron replied.
"No one would believe me," Ethan said getting to his feet. "I'm going to bed."
"I think we will too," Harry offered his hand to his wife.
"I'm going to read for a bit and then I'll go on up too," Saffron said. "Good night, you guys."
"Night sweetheart," Hermione said.
For the first time since they'd arrived at Brighton, Saffron actually felt happy. She knew that she and Andrew had a lot of things to talk about, but she had a feeling that they could work this out.