Authors' note: You guys kind of freaked out when Andrew and Natalia took their relationship to the next level! We expected that wouldn't go over too well with the Andrew/Saffy fans, but they are both seeing other people and they've decided to move on. That's all we can say about that for now. This chapter is a little longer than the last one. We hope you enjoy it!
Alexa could hardly believe that she and Gabe had been together for a year. Their relationship had flourished despite the distance between them. And even though Gabriel had been quite busy during the Easter break reading, he'd managed to clear away his last full day in London to spend it with her.
"This is perfect," Alexa said as she sank into the seat next to him. "Right where we were sitting when we got together a year ago."
Gabriel smiled. "And dinner will be ready soon."
"What are we having?" Alexa asked.
"My mom's special chicken casserole," Gabriel told her.
"I can't wait to taste it," Alexa kissed him. "Have I told you how happy you've made me this past year?"
"Maybe once or twice," Gabriel said.
"I'll tell you again then," Alexa said. "I love you, Gabe."
Gabriel cupped her face in his hands. "I love you too, Lexie."
"I'm so glad you were here for this," Alexa replied, kissing him again. "I was worried I'd have to make your books disappear to get you to pay some attention to me."
Gabriel frowned. "I'm sorry. I have finals coming up soon and I really want to be prepared."
"It's okay," Alexa said. "But tonight, it's just about us."
"No big books," Gabriel promised.
"No little ones either," she teased.
Gabriel laughed. "Come on then. I need to check on dinner."
"Okay," Alexa took his hand and followed him into the kitchen.
Gabriel loved his father's kitchen. It was large and had every gadget and appliance known to man.
"Can I help with anything?" Alexa asked.
"Set the table?" Gabriel asked.
"I'm on it," she grinned.
Alexa grabbed her wand and waved it at the table, where silverware, plates and glasses appeared.
"Lazy woman," Gabriel teased.
"Just showing off," Alexa laughed as he grabbed her around the waist.
"That's my girl," Gabriel said. "So...did you tell Saffy yet about getting accepted to UCLA?"
"Not yet," Alexa said. "I'm sort of scared..."
"She'll be happy for you," Gabriel said. "Wouldn't she?"
"I'm sure she would," Alexa replied. "But I'm going to miss her like crazy."
"You should tell her before you leave in August," Gabriel said.
"I'll tell her when we go back to school," Alexa said, burying her face in his shoulder. "I wish I was going to USC with you."
"You'll be close," Gabriel said holding her close. "Within driving distance."
"Or Apparating distance," Alexa grinned up at him.
"As Nico says we'll keep that on the down low," Gabriel said.
"Of course," Alexa kissed him.
"Sit down," Gabriel told her. "Time to eat."
"Good because I'm starving," Alexa replied.
"Coming right up," Gabriel said grinning at her.
Alexa watched her boyfriend as he got their dinner. She was thrilled about going to school so close to him and seeing him as much as she wanted, but it was a huge step for her in leaving England behind.
She thought of Saffron like a sister and they'd been friends since they were 11.
"All right," Gabriel set a plate down. "Let me know what you think."
Alexa broke out of her reverie and picked up her fork.
Gabriel sat down across from her and waited expectantly.
"My compliments to the chef," Alexa said. "This is amazing!"
Gabriel grinned. "I'm glad you like it. It was the first thing my mom taught me to cook. Hers was much better than mine."
"Then it had to be incredible, because this is one of the best meals I've ever had," Alexa smiled at him as he poured them both some champagne.
"Here's to our first year together," Gabriel said holding up his glass.
"The first of many," Alexa said softly, brushing her glass against his.
"So what time does your train leave tomorrow morning?" he asked her.
"Half past nine," Alexa said. "I wish I didn't have to go back."
"My dad's taking me back to the States at noon," Gabriel said. "I don't really care for that portkey travel, but it's better than sitting on a plane for eight hours."
"So true," Alexa agreed. "I'm not too fond of it either."
Gabriel smiled at her. "The summer will be here before we know it."
"We get to go to Brighton again, I hope." Alexa said.
"And I get to see you in a bikini," Gabriel grinned.
"I could put one on for you tonight," Alexa told him, laughing.
Gabriel laughed. "The night is still young."
"Thank Merlin for that," Alexa replied.
Gabriel listened while she talked about the campus trip she and her parents were scheduled to take in June. Her parents weren't too keen on her living all those miles away, but they knew this was a great opportunity for her.
"I hope you'll be able to meet us for dinner while we're there," Alexa told him. "My parents really like you."
"That's good to know," Gabriel said leaning back in his chair. "Since I'm crazy about their daughter."
"Their daughter is crazy about you as well," Alexa set her fork down on her empty plate.
"I hope you want dessert," Gabriel said.
"That depends on what it is," Alexa said coyly. "You?"
"Sticky toffee pudding," Gabriel announced. "Your mom told me it was one of your favourite desserts."
Alexa laughed. "That it is."
Gabriel stood up and walked over to the counter where he'd set aside the pudding. He uncovered the dish and spooned two helpings onto plates. He didn't get that much of a chance to cook with his busy schedule, but he'd enjoyed doing this for his girlfriend.
"That does look delicious," Alexa had sneaked up behind him and slid her arms around his middle.
"It's the first time I've ever made it so go easy on me," Gabriel said turning to look at her.
"I'm sure it'll be delicious," Alexa said not letting him go.
Gabriel took a spoon and dug into the dish. He held it out to Alexa.
She opened her mouth and he fed her. "Good?"
"Mmmmm," Alexa said. "You should give up medicine and open up your own restaurant."
Gabriel laughed. "I'll do it on the side," he joked.
Alexa giggled. "Can I have another bite?"
"Sure," he said, holding up the spoon again.
Alexa took another bite. "If you ever made this for Emma Weasley, she'd love you for the rest of her life."
Gabriel laughed. "That's a good idea, actually. I'm glad I got to see them while I was here."
Alexa smiled at the memory of the red-haired little girl chasing after Gabriel when he'd nicked one of her chocolate bunnies.
"You ate that faster than she ever could," Gabriel pointed out as Alexa polished off her dessert.
"You'd better eat yours or I'll eat it too," Alexa warned. "Don't tell my mom this, but yours is right on par with hers."
"I'll never tell," Gabriel leaned in and kissed her.
Alexa looped her arms around his neck and kissed him back.
"Want to go back to the theatre?" he asked huskily.
"Absolutely," Alexa replied tugging at his hand.
Gabriel scooped her up. "We'll take you there in style, madam."
Alexa laughed. "Gabe!"
"You deserve the best," he grinned at her.
Alexa smiled at him. "I feel like someone in one of your dad's movies."
"You're far more gorgeous than any old movie star," Gabriel told her softly.
Alexa beamed at him and felt happiness bubbling up inside her as he carried her into the theatre.
"There we are," he said. "Right back in your favourite seats."
"Reserved just for us," Alexa said.
He grinned at her. "So you want to watch a movie... or..."
"We can do both," Alexa said grinning at him. "I love watching movies with you and cuddling and all that other stuff..."
"What other stuff?" Gabriel asked, playing innocent.
"Touching, snogging," Alexa said thoughtfully. "That sort of...stuff."
Gabriel smiled at her as he started a film. "I like stuff."
Alexa smiled at him. "Hey! This is the one we watched that first night!"
"So it is," Gabriel replied with a grin as he reached for her.
Alexa snuggled up close beside him. She felt so happy at this moment. It was hard to believe that tonight would be their last night together for almost a month.
"I really can't wait to have you so close next school year," Gabriel stroked her hair. "And to see you whenever I want."
"Me too," Alexa said. "But you never know, you might get sick of me."
"No way," Gabriel replied. "I love you too much, Lexie."
Alexa smiled. "I love you, too."
Gabriel ignored the movie as he leaned in and kissed his girlfriend, pushing her down onto the seat.
Alexa wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed him back. She shivered as she felt his hand slip underneath her shirt.
Gabriel kissed her harder as he moved his hand up, bringing her shirt along with it.
His touch was soft and gentle and Alexa opened her eyes and looked up at him. "So this is the stuff you like?" she whispered.
"Very much," he answered softly.
"It's almost as good as that toffee pudding," she said giggling.
"Oh yeah?" Gabriel asked tickling her side.
Alexa giggled even harder. "You know I hate to be tickled, Gabe!"
"What are you going to do about it O'Leary?" he asked.
"Tickle you back," Alexa said making a move for him, but he blocked her. "Gabe!"
"I'm faster than you O'Leary," Gabriel was laughing.
"You don't fight fair," she said making another move.
"Nope," he answered with a grin.
"You're lucky I love you," she said before he tickled her again.
"You're my girl," he said, finally letting up.
She smiled up at him, thinking that there was nowhere else in the world she'd rather be. "Um...Gabe?"
"Yeah?" he asked.
"How about we go upstairs to your room?" Alexa asked, taking his hand.
"What?" Gabriel looked at her properly.
"It's our anniversary," Alexa said softly. "And what better time---"
Gabriel was so surprised; he didn't know what to say. "Lexie--"
"If you don't want to," she started to say.
"No," Gabriel replied. "It's not that... I've just... I've never been with a girl before."
"Oh," Alexa said softly. "Um, I thought you might have been with that...Emily..."
Gabriel shook his head. "No way," he answered.
"I love you," Alexa said softly. "And I want to be with you."
"I love you too," Gabriel swallowed as he offered her his hand.
Alexa leaned in kissed him.
Gabriel was nervous but he kissed her back. Alexa had already been with RJ, and he hoped he wouldn't be too awkward with his lack of experience but he wanted to be with her as well.
Gabriel turned off the movie and he turned out the lights in the theatre. His father and stepmother weren't due back until later that evening so he didn't think they'd have to worry about getting caught.
"It's this way," he told her.
Alexa gave his hand a squeeze and together they walked upstairs to his bedroom.
Gabriel was still nervous as he shut the door behind them. "Um..." he began. "I wasn't expecting to do this, and I uh... I don't have anything--"
"It's okay," Alexa reassured him. "We have spells that we use to protect ourselves."
"Okay," Gabriel wiped his sweaty palms on his trousers.
Alexa felt a little nervous, too. She was still surprised that she'd been the one to suggest they do this. The old her would never have had the courage to do that, but Gabe brought that out in her.
Gabriel slid his arms around her waist. "I may be a bit of a wreck, but there's no one I'd rather do this with," he said softly.
"Me either," Alexa said smiling up at him.
The way she was looking at him right now made him feel much more confident. He kissed her again as he walked them both towards his bed.
Alexa giggled nervously when they fell onto the bed.
"Sorry," Gabriel said with a grin. "Not so graceful."
"It's okay," Alexa reassured him.
Gabriel ran his fingers through her hair. "You are so beautiful," he said.
"I love you," Alexa whispered.
"Love you," Gabriel replied. "More than anything."
Alexa wanted to remember every moment of this night. Her doubts and nervousness melted away as she kissed her boyfriend.
He deepened the kiss as he peeled back her clothing, leaving them soon in nothing but their undergarments.
Alexa took a look at him. She'd seen him before in swimming trunks and she'd always thought he had a nice build.
"You checking out the goods, O'Leary?" Gabriel teased her.
"Maybe," Alexa said impishly.
"They're all yours," he said, pulling her close.
Gabriel rolled over so she was on top of him as he worked at trying to unsnap her bra.
Alexa felt her heart do flips as Gabriel struggled with the snap. He was absolutely adorable. She wouldn't tell him that though. "I'll get it," she said.
"I've got it," Gabriel bit his lower lip in concentration.
"Okay," Alexa said smiling at him. He finally managed the snap and slowly peeled the bra off of her. "Now who's admiring the goods?" she teased.
"Me," he said with a grin. "You are completely perfect."
Alexa bent down and kissed him, knowing that this was exactly what she wanted.
Gabriel shifted as she pressed herself on top of him.
"This is it," Alexa whispered.
Gabriel nodded. "I want you, Lexie." he said huskily. "I have since the day I met you."
"You have me," she said touching his cheek.
"Always?" he asked.
"Always," Alexa promised, pulling his boxer shorts down.
Gabriel groaned as Alexa tossed her knickers aside. "My God, Lexie..." he said.
Alexa took the initiative and guided him inside her.
Gabriel stared up at her. "Okay?" he managed to utter.
"Perfect," she replied. He pulled her down for a kiss and Alexa felt the need building up inside her. She rocked forward causing Gabriel to let out a guttural moan.
"That's it," she breathed. "Gabe..."
"Lexie," Gabriel said, not sure of what to do next. He began to move with Alexa.
Alexa nodded. "Yes," she said, running her nails over his chest.
Gabriel's breath caught in his throat when he looked up at her. He'd never seen her like this---so beautiful; so free. "Lexie..."
"This is amazing," she managed as they moved faster. "Gabe!"
Gabriel called out her name and then Alexa fell onto him, her breath ragged. A lazy grin spread across Gabriel's face as the reality of what they'd just done hit him.
"I don't know what you were worried about," Alexa said a few minutes later.
"Worried about disappointing you," Gabriel said smiling at her.
"Never," Alexa stroked back his hair. "You could never do that, Gabe."
"That was amazing," Gabriel said giving her a gentle kiss.
"Completely," Alexa agreed, wrapping her arm around his chest.
"Happy anniversary," Gabriel said.
"Happy Anniversary," she echoed.
*** *** ***
Saffron only had a couple of days left of her Easter vacation. She was going to spend her last day with her parents so tonight was really the last time she'd be able to see Sean before the summer holidays.
Currently they were snogging quite heatedly in the sitting room on the sofa. Sean's hands were sneaking up under her shirt while hers were splayed across his chest.
"I've got something," Sean whispered pulling away from her for a moment. "If we wanted to...."
"What?" Saffron opened her eyes.
"Protection," Sean said breathlessly.
Saffron stared at her boyfriend. "You want us to... to..."
"Your parents aren't home," Sean said smiling at her. "And we love each other. It just---it feels right."
"I care about you, Sean." Saffron told him. "But... I just don't know."
Sean cupped her face in his hands. "Saffy..."
"Yeah?" Saffron answered softly.
"I want to be with you," Sean said.
"I..." Saffron paused.
"What is it?" Sean asked sitting up.
"I don't know," Saffron said quietly. "I'm just not sure if I'm ready."
Sean took her hand. "Saffy, I love you so much."
She couldn't help but think that this was moving so fast. They had only been back together since Christmas.
"I'm sorry," Sean said sincerely. "The last thing I want to do is pressure you."
Saffron smiled at him. "You're fantastic you know."
"You aren't so bad yourself," Sean said giving her a hug. "I just can't help it when I'm around you."
"I can see why," Saffron teased. "But I did like what we were doing."
"You probably didn't picture your first time in the sitting room of your parents' house," Sean said.
"Not really," she confessed.
"Maybe this summer," Sean said thoughtfully. "We could steal away just the two of us."
"At Brighton," Saffron nodded.
Sean leaned in and kissed her. "We'll make it special. I promise."
Saffron ran her fingers through his spiky hair.
"And I do value my life," Sean joked. "Could you imagine what your dad would do if he came home to find us starkers in here?"
"That wouldn't be so good for either of us," Saffron answered.
Puddles hurried into the sitting room and jumped on the couch into Saffron's lap.
"Hi baby," Saffron laughed. "Did you miss me?"
Puddles rested his head on her chest.
"I'd take that as a yes," Sean said with a laugh.
"He's really my number one guy," Saffron quipped. "And he knows it."
"Do I come in second at least?" Sean asked.
"You sure do," Saffron leaned over.
Sean kissed her. "How about I go and get us some more sodas?"
"Okay," Saffron replied. "Thanks Sean."
Sean stood up and walked into the kitchen.
Saffron looked at her dog. "Puddles, what is wrong with me?"
Puddles looked up at her and rested his paws on her chest.
"You know what your problem is," a familiar voice said. "It's me...you're still in love with me." Saffron rolled her eyes. Now, she was hallucinating.
"I think I ought to take up drinking," she muttered to herself.
"What are you doing with that bloke?" Andrew's voice asked.
"Go away," Saffron replied, not wanting to hear her ex's voice.
"You still love me," Andrew's voice rang in her ears .
"No I don't," Saffron lied.
"Yes you do," Andrew said in a sing-song voice. "And there's nothing you can do about it."
Saffron shook her head as Puddles jumped down. "I wish you'd go away."
"Here comes loverboy," Andrew said and Saffron turned her head to see Sean looking at her with a raised eyebrow. "Saf?"
Saffron forced a smile onto her face. "Hi."
Sean handed her a soda. "I heard voices..."
"Just me talking to myself," Saffron shook her head.
"Ahhh," Sean said sitting back down beside her.
"Thanks for the soda," Saffron smiled at him.
"It's the least I can do," Sean said. "I can't get over how big this house is. You sure you've never gotten lost in here?"
Saffron shook her head as she leaned against him. "I know every nook and cranny of this house. I've lived here my entire life."
"Good place to play hide and seek," Sean commented.
Saffron laughed. "Ethan and I used to have foot races in the ballroom."
"And I bet you won them all," Sean slid an arm around her.
"Every single one," Saffron said. "But I think Ethan let me win when I was small. But now I can take him."
Sean grinned. "I bet you could take anyone in there."
Saffron grinned back at him. But her smile fell when she saw Andrew's face instead.
"Saf?" Sean's face was concerned. "Are you all right?"
"Yes," Saffron said hastily. "I'm fine."
"Are you sure?" he touched her cheek.
"Just fine," Saffron said. "I'm moving on."
Sean nodded, still a bit confused.
"So are you looking forward to going back to University?" Saffron asked.
"Sure," Sean nodded. "A few months left of my first year."
"I still can't believe in a few weeks, I'll be finished at Hogwarts," Saffron said.
"What will you do with yourself?" Sean nuzzled her neck.
"Start my plan for world domination," Saffron said closing her eyes.
"Maybe," Saffron said kissing him.
Neither of them noticed heard the front door opening. Ethan had come home from work with his father hoping to get some of his mother's leftover lasagne.
"I'll go and warm it up," Harry told his son.
"Thanks," Ethan replied. "It's been ages since I've had her lasagne."
Ethan was going to use the fireplace to let Maddie know where he was. When he entered the sitting room, he saw his baby sister snogging her boyfriend. "Saffron Grace Potter!" Ethan bellowed in his best imitation of their father.
Saffron gasped and pulled apart from Sean. Her eyes narrowed when he saw it was just her brother.
"Oh calm down," Ethan said laughing. "You're lucky it was me and not the real thing."
"You're a jerk," Saffron snapped at him. "Why are you here?"
"Dad asked if I wanted to stop by after work for leftovers," Ethan said. "Hello, Sean."
"Hi Ethan," Sean's face was red. "Alright?"
"Saffy?" Harry called out. "Sweetheart, did you want leftovers?"
"No we're fine," Saffron said with a sigh.
Puddles growled at Ethan.
"That's right baby," Saffron told her dog. "Go bite him."
"I love you too, Baby Sister," Ethan said.
"Why are you still in here?" Saffron complained.
"Catching up with you crazy kids," Ethan said plopping down in between them.
"I'm about to hex you within an inch of your life," Saffron said sharply.
"It's okay," Sean told her. "I should probably get going anyway."
"You could stay for dinner," Saffron objected.
"Yeah," Ethan said. "Stay for dinner."
"I'll ring my parents and make sure it's okay," Sean reached for his mobile.
Ethan stood up and walked toward the kitchen, but Saffron was hot on his heels.
"What was that all about?" she hissed. "Why would you want him to stay for dinner?"
"I felt bad for interrupting your little interlude," Ethan said.
"Yeah right," Saffron muttered.
Harry was just setting some plates on the table when his children came into the kitchen. "Hiya, Saffron."
"Hi Dad," Saffron said. "Sean's staying for dinner, is that okay?"
"Sure," Harry said. "There's more than enough."
"Great," Saffron replied as the brown haired young man came into the kitchen.
"Hello, Mr. Potter," Sean said politely.
"Hi Sean," Harry nodded to him. "I hear you're joining us for dinner tonight. I hope you like lasagne."
"Absolutely," Sean replied. "Thank you, sir
"Saffy and Sean really worked up an appetite," Ethan said cheekily.
Harry turned and raised his eyebrow at the two teenagers.
"Ethan," Saffron warned.
"Just saying," Ethan shrugged innocently.
"Where's Mum?" Saffron asked changing the subject.
"Working late," Harry replied. "She won't be home until after nine."
"Poor Mum," Saffron said.
"Well she knows we're spending the day together tomorrow," Harry said. "So she's working late tonight."
"My dad's going to help me go over the contract that Puddlemere's offered me," Saffron told Sean.
"Puddlemere's the Quidditch team you want to play for, right?" Sean asked.
Saffron nodded. "The one and only."
All kidding aside, Ethan was proud of his sister. "She received offers from seven teams. That's more than RJ had."
"You'll have to explain the sport to me again," Sean replied.
"I should let you borrow Quidditch for the Ages," Saffron said.
"It's only the greatest book ever written," Ethan told Sean.
"Hogwarts: A History is on the same level," Saffron said thoughtfully. "I think I've read that book about a hundred times."
"Just like your mum," Harry joked. "Even though she never went there."
"Books are amazing," Saffron said. "In fact, I don't think I've ever read one I didn't like. Well, there was this one book where this bloke was talking about a monster in his chest...."
"You know, Ron and RJ used to talk about some book like that," Harry said. "It sounds ridiculous. Some insane author, most likely..."
Ethan rolled his eyes. "What is a monster in the chest anyway?"
"Who even wants to know?" Saffron asked snidely.
"Tuck in," Harry said setting plates in front of Saffron and Sean.
"This looks great sir," Sean replied. "Thank you."
"Saffy's mum made it last night," Harry told him. "It's one of the three things she knows how to make."
"What are the other two?" Sean asked.
"Toast and sandwiches," Harry said.
"Don't forget the rice pudding," Saffron replied.
"Four things then," Harry said sitting down at the table.
"So what are you two up to this evening?" Ethan asked his sister and her boyfriend.
"We were just watching a film," Saffron replied.
"Which one?" Ethan asked.
"Love Actually," Saffron said at the same that Sean said, "Pirates of the Caribbean."
Harry and Ethan exchanged a glance as the two teenagers blushed.
Ethan chuckled. He loved watching Saffron squirm.
His sister sent him a nasty glare. Her palm was itching for her wand so she could wipe the smirk off her brother's face.
"How was work, Dad?" Saffron asked.
"Pretty uneventful today, sweetheart." Harry answered.
"That's good though," Saffron said. She worried about her father, especially when he was on dangerous missions.
"Ethan and I have a weekend assignment coming up in the beginning of May," Harry said.
"Anything serious?" Saffron asked.
"We'll see," Harry replied. "At this point, we can't discuss it."
"Hopefully no kids playing a prank," Saffron said.
"That was foul," Ethan shook his head. "I was so pissed."
"I think you might have deserved it," Saffron commented.
"I'm surprised one of them wasn't you," Ethan returned.
"Believe it or not," Harry said to Sean. "They do sometimes get along."
"Just once in awhile," Saffron replied.
"I love the brat," Ethan said.
Saffron managed a grudging smile. "Yeah, yeah."
"I can't believe you're graduating in a few weeks," Harry said to his daughter.
"And signing to Puddlemere," Saffron's smile turned into a blinding grin.
"We'll go over your contract thoroughly before you sign anything," Harry cautioned.
"I know," Saffron replied. "But I really, really, REALLY can't wait to officially be on the team."
"When does the season start?" Sean asked. He wanted to know everything he could about it since it was important to Saffron.
"Fall," she answered. "But we practise a good deal of the summer."
"Is that what you were doing earlier in the sitting room?" Ethan asked with a grin. "You know when I caught you----"
Saffron kicked her brother's leg, hard.
"OW!" Ethan yelped.
"Shut up," she hissed at him.
"Ethan, quit bothering your sister," Harry said.
"Yeah," Saffron glared at him.
"I was just teasing her, Dad," Ethan said standing up so he could pour himself another glass of juice.
"You're always just teasing," Saffron snapped.
"Can't we enjoy a nice dinner?" Harry asked them.
"If Ethan shuts up for two seconds."
"I was only teasing, Brat," Ethan said sitting back down.
"Golden Boy," Saffron muttered.
"Golden Boy," Ethan repeated. "You know I like the sound of that. Maybe you could call me Sir Golden Boy."
"In your dreams," Saffron retorted.
"So are you looking forward to going back to University, Sean?" Harry asked trying to change the subject to keep the peace.
"I am," Sean nodded. "It's a different feeling, being out on your own like that."
"He has a flat with four other blokes," Saffron told her father.
"All in one?" Harry asked with a laugh. "I remember rooming with four guys. Our place was a mess."
"I know we must have a floor somewhere but I haven't seen it," Sean said laughing.
Saffron shook her head. "Blokes..."
"You're outnumbered here, Saffy," Ethan said.
"But I'm the best looking one," Saffron joked. "That's got to count for something."
Hermione appeared in the doorway looking quite tired. "Hello, everyone."
"Hi Mum," Saffron smiled at her mother. "We're just polishing off your lasagne."
"I hope there's one small piece for me," Hermione said. "I'm starving. I haven't eaten anything since breakfast this morning."
"I'll get you some," Saffron got up.
"Thanks, love," Hermione said gratefully. "Hello, Sean."
"Hello Mrs. Potter," Sean said. "I mean um... Minister."
"You can call me Mrs. Potter, Sean," Hermione said. "Or Hermione."
"Okay," he said, relaxing a bit.
"Tough day, sweetheart?" Harry asked his wife.
"Long," Hermione rubbed her temples.
"Here you are, Mum," Saffron said setting a plate down before her.
"Thank you sweetheart," Hermione answered. "You're good to me."
"You gave me life," Saffron said smiling at her. "The least I can do."
"And what about me?" Harry asked in mock indignation.
"You weren't in labour with me for 16 hours, were you?" Saffron asked.
"Well no... but--" Harry began.
"Only kidding, Daddy," Saffron said giving him a hug.
"Golden girl," Ethan quipped, making them all laugh.
"Nice to see some things haven't changed," Hermione said shaking her head.
"Why would I change?" Saffron asked. "You can't improve upon perfection."
"Sean, how do you put up with her?" Ethan asked.
Sean grinned. "It's not hard."
Saffron scooted her chair over and rested her head on Sean's shoulder.
Hermione smiled at her daughter, glad that she seemed happy again.
"So what's the plan for tomorrow?" Ethan asked his little sister. "Your last day before you go back to school?"
"Well, Mum and Dad and I are going over to Gran's for breakfast," Saffron said. "And then we're coming back here so Dad and I can go over that contract Puddlemere sent over. Then, he promised he would play a match with me...."
"I want to play," Ethan said. "Can I join you guys?"
"Sure," Saffron replied. "Maybe we could even convince Mum...we could play two on two..."
"I don't think so," Hermione replied. "You'd have better luck getting Jules up there."
"Maybe we could get Nick," Saffron said thoughtfully. "You and me against the two old geezers."
"Hey!" Harry exclaimed.
"You can still fly, Mr. Potter?" Sean asked. "I thought---"
"Thought what?" Harry asked.
"Um, that well you might be too old to fly," Sean stammered. "I mean, my dad fell on his hip playing rugby and he's still not the same...."
Ethan covered his mouth to keep from laughing.
"One is never too old to fly," Harry said firmly. "Never."
"All kidding aside, Dad could have had a career playing professional Quidditch," Saffron told Sean. "He was the youngest Seeker at Hogwarts in over a century."
"What made you decide not to play?" Sean asked him.
"Well, I decided to pursue a career as an Auror," Harry told him. "That was what I really wanted to do."
"What exactly is an Auror again?" Sean asked. "You... sort of catch the bad guys, right?"
"He's like a Wizard policeman," Saffron told him.
"Cool," Sean nodded. "Sounds exciting."
"It can be," Harry said. "But it's also quite challenging as Ethan would tell you."
"It's got its good days and its bad days," Ethan told him.
Sean always loved hearing about the wizarding world. More than once, he'd wished that he'd been magical like his cousin.
"We should go out flying tonight," Saffron told him. "You can see what it's like."
"We can do that?" Sean asked excitedly.
"Sure," Saffron said. "I'll take you up there."
"That's very romantic," Ethan teased.
"It is," Saffron said defensively.
"You've taken Maddie flying plenty of times," Hermione pointed out to her son.
"We have a good time in the air," Ethan answered.
"When I'm able to convince your Mum to go up there with me, we have a good time too," Harry said sharing a look with Hermione.
"That's a rare occurrence," Hermione finished her meal.
"Which makes it special," Harry said.
Hermione smiled at him.
"I'd better go home," Ethan said looking at his watch. "I'll come by tomorrow afternoon for Quidditch."
"Take home a plate for Maddie," Hermione got up.
"She'd love that," Ethan said smiling at her. "Thanks, Mum."
"That and she'd never forgive you for going home empty handed," Saffron cracked.
Ethan laughed. "No, she wouldn't."
Hermione motioned for Ethan to come over to the counter with her while she made up a plate for his wife. "So...how is she doing?" Hermione asked quietly.
"Better," Ethan answered. "She's been spending time over at Frankie's with the babies."
Hermione smiled. "I'm glad. I know this hasn't been easy for the two of you."
Ethan shook his head. "I've been disappointed too. I'd love to be a father. But I know it's going to happen."
"It will," Hermione reassured him. "And you and Maddie will be great parents."
"Thanks," Ethan pecked her cheek.
Hermione finished making the plate for Maddie and handed it to her son. "You give her my love."
"I will," Ethan replied. "Thanks Mum."
"I'll see you tomorrow, son," Harry said clapping his son on the back.
Ethan nodded. "Thanks for dinner."
"Good night, Ethan," Saffron said standing up and punching her brother on the arm.
"Night brat," Ethan said affectionately. "Good to see you, Sean."
"You too, Ethan," Sean said.
Ethan disappeared with a pop. "Come on," Saffron took Sean's hand. "Let's go for that ride."
Sean grinned. "I can't wait."
"Don't be too long," Hermione said. "It's getting late and it's cold up there."
"We'll only go up for a bit," Saffron promised.
"Have fun," Harry smiled at them.
"Your family is great," Sean said to Saffron as they stepped outside. "My mum and dad---we hardly ever eat together anymore."
"Why?" Saffron asked.
"Everyone's so busy," Sean replied. "Mum works the day shift and my dad he works nights..."
"Oh," Saffron answered as they went outside, her broom in her hand.
"You're lucky," Sean said.
She reached over to squeeze his hand. "Well I'm glad you stayed tonight."
"Me too," Sean said leaning in and giving her a quick kiss. "Okay, Miss Potter. You're going to have to take the lead. The only thing I've ever used a broom for is sweeping."
"I always take the lead with flying," Saffron said. "You get to sit behind me and hold me really tightly."
"I like the sound of that," Sean said.
"First though," Saffron stopped. "I need a really, really good kiss from you."
Sean really liked the sound of that and he didn't waste any time pulling her into his arms and kissing her.
Saffron closed her eyes as she kissed him back rather passionately.
Sean broke the kiss, but still held on to her tightly. He knew in his heart that she might not love him as much as he loved her. He was trying very hard to be patient.
"That was perfect," Saffron said softly.
"You're perfect," Sean said resting his forehead on hers.
Saffron smiled. "I'm glad we happen to agree on that." she joked.
Sean laughed. "Well, how about we get up in the air and you show me what you can do?"
"Sounds good," Saffron mounted her broom. "You get on right behind me."
Sean slid on right behind her and put his arms on her waist. Saffron kicked off from the ground and they soared high.
From the kitchen, Hermione looked out the window at her daughter. Saffron was the most fearless person Hermione knew. She always had been even when she was a baby. Hermione winced when she saw Saffron perform some loops.
"She's flying high isn't she?" Harry saw his wife's expression.
"Too high," Hermione replied.
"Saffy can't get high enough," Harry replied, joining her at the window.
"I'm never going to get used to seeing her do those tricks," Hermione said leaning against her husband. "I have nightmares about her falling..."
"I've never fallen," Harry replied. "I don't think Saffy will either."
"She's my baby," Hermione said. "I'm always going to worry about her."
"Same here," Harry replied, rubbing her shoulders.
"I just keep telling myself that flying makes her happy," Hermione said softly. "She gets this look on her face..."
Harry laughed. "I've been told I get the same look."
"You do," Hermione said. "I can still remember coming home from work when she was about three years old. I came into the backyard and I saw you had her on your broom. I wanted to kill you!"
"She loved it even then," Harry said proudly.
"Did you have a chance to look at that contract?" Hermione asked him.
Harry shook his head. "Hermione... they're starting her out at a higher rate than RJ. I can't believe it."
Hermione gaped at him. "Really?"
"I've never seen anyone start so high," Harry replied.
Hermione looked at him. "You'll be sure to go over every thing in that contract with her? I don't want them to take advantage of her."
"I promise," Harry gave her a kiss.
"How was your day?" Hermione asked.
"Pretty boring," he answered.
Hermione turned and looked properly at him. "Ever wish you'd given professional Quidditch a go?"
"Sometimes," Harry said thoughtfully. "But I love what I do."
"You're great at what you do," Hermione said proudly.
"And so are you," Harry slid his arms around her.
Saffron came back into the kitchen with her broom and rolled her eyes when she saw her parents snogging.
"Stop!" Saffron exclaimed covering her eyes. "Before you scar me for life."
Hermione laughed. "Where's Sean?"
"He's gone home," Saffron said.
"Already?" Harry asked.
Saffron nodded. "He has an early start tomorrow."
"We saw you flying," Hermione said.
"He loved it," Saffron said with a grin. "I knew he would."
"I'm glad you were able to enjoy one last evening together," Hermione said.
"Me too," Saffron replied.
"How is my favourite 17-year old?" Harry asked tugging on Saffron's ponytail.
"She's good," Saffron hugged him. "Can we look at that contract now?"
"We can," Harry said. "It's in my office."
"I'm so excited they want me," Saffron bounced up and down.
Hermione put her hands on Saffron's shoulders. "Sweetheart, you need to look over each and every one of those contracts and make the best decision for you."
"Dad will help me," Saffron said confidently. "But Puddlemere is definitely my choice. I've wanted to play for them as long as I can remember."
"I know," Hermione said.
Harry came back into the room carrying a large folder. The seven teams that had offered Saffron contracts were: Puddlemere, Appleby, Ballycastle, Wimbourne, Tutshill, Montrose, and Falmouth.
"Wimbourne's out," Saffron said immediately.
Hermione knew why so she didn't press the issue.
Harry set out each of the seven contracts on the kitchen table. "Are you sure, sweetheart? They have the second best record..."
Saffron shook her head vehemently. "I'm not signing with Wimbourne." she insisted.
"Okay," Harry said setting that contract aside. "Well, let's look at Appleby. One of my former team-mates is their coach---Katie Bell."
"I've heard of her," Saffron nodded.
"They are offering 1 million galleons to start," Harry said. "If you make it to the World Cup, you get an extra 100,000 galleons."
Saffron raised her eyebrows. "Wow..." she admitted. "That's more than I thought."
"Katie would look after you too," Harry said.
"Let's put it in the 'maybe' file." Saffron replied.
Hermione took the contract from Harry and set it aside. "Who's next?"
"Ballycastle," Harry said. The three of them looked through all the contracts until they came across Puddlemere.
"Five million galleons," Harry said reading from the contract. "Two hundred thousand signing bonus and an extra two-hundred thousand if the team makes it to the championship."
"FIVE MILLION?" Hermione asked in surprise.
"FIVE MILLION?" Saffron screeched. "DAD ARE YOU SERIOUS?"