Authors' note: There might have been some confusion in the last chapter since we did a bit of a time jump. Saffy disappeared in June, Ethan disappeared nearly a month later. This time frame is now December. We hope that clears things up. We hope you will enjoy the chapter! Ron appeared in the doorway with Drew, Darla, RJ, Jon and Josh.
Ron appeared in the doorway with Drew, Darla, RJ, Jon and Josh.
Pansy opened her mouth to tell them that they were violating the rules.
"Parkinson, just give us five minutes," Ron said. "We can't help that there's a whole lot of us."
Pansy glared at him. "FIVE minutes."
"She never could resist me," Ron whispered to Josh.
"You have got to be kidding me," Pansy glared at him.
"I always have had quite the way with the ladies," Ron said smugly.
"A way to make them run for the loo," Pansy retorted.
Ron's children laughed at this and Pansy smiled in satisfaction as she left the room.
"That was impressive, Dad," Josh teased.
"Yeah well.... I always did think she liked girls," Ron muttered.
"I take it you lot want to meet your niece," Maddie said smiling at her siblings.
"She's gorgeous, Maddie." Darla said admiringly.
"Of course she is," Jon said grinning at his baby sister. "She's a Weasley."
Maddie looked at her father. "Want to hold her, Daddy?"
Ron stepped forward. "I'd love that."
Maddie smiled as her father took Kiera carefully into his arms.
"Hello, Kiera," Ron whispered looking down at the baby. "I'm your Grandpa."
Kiera stared up at him with her unusual eyes.
"I am going to spoil you completely rotten," Ron said.
"Just like the rest of them," Jon joked.
"I think she likes me," Ron said.
"I'm sure she loves you," Maddie said softly.
"Since he's always had a way with the ladies," RJ said dryly.
"Only the ones who don't like other women," Ron retorted.
"Ronald," Luna chastised. "Pansy is married to Gregory Goyle, remember?"
"Appearances, I'm sure," Ron said, passing his new granddaughter to Josh.
"Your father had a bit of a crush when they were in school together," Luna told the others.
"I did not!" Ron denied.
"How'd you find out, Mum?" Drew asked.
"I overheard him talking about it one night when he got pissed in the kitchens," Luna said. "He confessed all to Dobby."
"Nice," Drew giggled at her father, even drawing a real smile from Maddie.
"That would be against the rules, wouldn't it, Jon?" RJ asked.
Jon nodded. "Yes, it would. Rules that our father assured us that he never, ever broke..."
"Of course I didn't," Ron said. "Your mother must have heard someone else."
"I'd know your voice anywhere, Ronald," Luna said smiling at him.
"Whatever," Ron mumbled, not looking at his wife.
Darla stood beside her sister's bed. "How are you feeling, Mads?"
"Tired," Maddie admitted. "And... I just wish Ethan were here."
"We should let you get some sleep," Darla said squeezing her hand.
"Just a kip," Maddie replied.
A nurse came to take the baby. "I'm sorry, but Mrs. Potter needs her rest. I'll have to ask you to leave."
"We'll be back in a few hours," Luna promised her daughter.
"Thanks, Mum," Maddie said hugging her. "Love you."
"I love you too baby," Luna said.
"We love you, Mad Dog," Jon called out to her.
Maddie kissed her daughter's forehead before resting back against the pillows. She was exhausted but her mind was running crazy.
There was one important thing missing from today---Ethan.
A tear escaped from her eye as she thought about her husband. Each day the ache she felt from his absence grew a little sharper, a little deeper.
They'd never spent this much time apart. She didn't want to do any of this without him.
"Ethan," she whispered. "Please.... please come back to me."
*** *** ***
Her second year at Hogwarts had not been much fun for Ashley Malfoy. She was so worried about her aunt and uncle and the possibility that something might happen to her mother that her marks had suffered. She tried to concentrate on her studies, but she was so worried about her family that she didn't know what to do.
It didn't help that her family's problems were reported in the Daily Prophet for all the world to see. To make matters worse, her grandfather was still in jail for assaulting someone. Thankfully, she'd be going home for Christmas hols in a few days and she'd be able to be around her family.
She walked into the Great Hall for breakfast and noticed that all eyes seemed to be on her. Some looked at her with pity, while others pointed and whispered. The Slytherins were having a field day with the fact that Harry Potter was in jail. Ashley had heard all their snarky comments.
Sighing, Ashley ducked her head so she wouldn't have to meet anyone's eyes and headed for her friends at the Gryffindor table. She didn't know what she would have done without Zander and Brittany by her side.
Brittany quickly put away that day's newspaper.
"Morning, Ash," Brittany said hastily.
"You don't have to hide it from me," Ashley said quietly.
"Hide what?" Brittany asked innocently.
Ashley gave her a look. "The paper, Brit. I know you're reading about it."
"Its complete rubbish," Brittany said loyally.
Ashley shrugged. "But it's true."
Brittany shook her head. "Not hardly. Your grandfather saved our world how many times? And all the Prophet can do is beat him when he's down. It's not right, Ashley."
Ashley only shook her head. "It doesn't matter to them, Brit."
"Did you see Zander?" Brittany asked, changing the subject. "He hasn't come down yet."
Ashley shook her head. "No."
"He was up late last night working on that essay for Professor Snape," Brittany said. "He waited until the last minute."
"I would have helped him," Ashley reached for her goblet of pumpkin juice.
Brittany didn't tell her friend that Zander had nixed that idea right away because he said that Ashley had enough on her mind without helping him with an essay.
"All he has to do is ask," Ashley replied.
"Don't worry about it," Brittany reassured her.
Ashley nodded, resting her head on the table.
Brittany looked sympathetically at her friend. She wished there was something to say to make her feel better.
Both girls were startled when suddenly coins were dropped on the table. Ashley looked up to see two Slytherin second-years grinning at her.
"We heard you needed money to bail your grandfather out of jail," Joanne Riley said haughtily. "The Slytherins have taken up a collection."
Ashley stared wordlessly up at her. "Just go away," she said quietly.
"Come on," Bianca Rutledge said. "We're only helping the cause. Oh, wait! That's right...he was denied bail."
Joanne giggled. "Well, she could keep it for the defence fund."
Brittany stood up and leaned over the table. "Leave Ashley alone or I'll tell everyone that you stuff your bra."
"You wouldn't dare," Joanne's laughter died.
"Try me," Brittany countered. "You must have an entire box of them in there now."
"Bitch," Joanne said angrily.
"Takes one to know one," Brittany retorted.
"Just leave us alone," Ashley said tiredly.
"Fine," Joanne said grabbing hold of Bianca and stalking back to the Slytherin table.
"Slags," Brittany said rolling her eyes.
"Just ignore them," Ashley shrugged. "I've learned to."
Zander came into the Great Hall looking quite tired and dishevelled.
"Nice of you to finally join us, Zander," Brittany remarked.
"Why didn't you tell me you needed help with Snape's essay?" Ashley asked. "I would have been happy to--"
Zander glared at his cousin before answering Ashley.
"I didn't need help," Zander said setting his books down on the table. "Don't worry about it."
"But--" Ashley began.
"It's okay," Zander cut her off. "Really."
Ashley nodded and rested her head on the table again.
"What's this?" Zander prodded the bag.
"Collection from some Slytherin slags," Brittany told him.
Zander shook his head. "I don't want to know."
"No, you don't," Brittany said.
"Are you all right, Ash?" Zander asked in concern. "Do you need to go see Madam Pomfrey? Or want me to get your mum?"
Ashley lifted her head and looked at him. "No, I'm okay. Just knackered."
Zander wished there were something he could do for her.
"Just think," Brittany said. "You'll be home with your family in just a few days."
Ashley nodded. "Hopefully with my grandpa too. And I wish my aunt and uncle would be there."
"And you'll get to see your new cousin," Brittany said. "Kiera, right?"
Ashley nodded. "Aunt Maddie sent me pictures. She's really cute."
Ashley looked over toward the front of the room where the professors sat. She sighed in relief when she saw her mother walk in and sit down.
"Go talk to her," Brittany nudged her.
Ashley nodded. "I'll be right back."
She hurried up to the professor's table. "Hi Mum."
Julie stood up and hugged her daughter. "Hi, sweetheart."
"Anything new?" Ashley asked hopefully.
"I'm afraid not," Julie said.
Ashley sighed. "Mum... I'm still scared something might happen to you too."
Julie hugged her daughter again. "Don't you worry about me. You know how safe Hogwarts is and we're still staying at your grandparents'. Don't you worry about me, sweetheart."
"I'll try," Ashley promised. "I can't wait to come home though, to see Dad and Katie and Sophie."
"Katie has her hands full looking after both Sophie and Puddles," Julie told her.
"I bet she's enjoying it though," Ashley said with a tiny smile.
"Last night, she had a tea party for the two of them with Caroline," Julie said. "You should have seen it."
"I wonder what Aunt Saffy will say about that," Ashley shook her head.
"You should have seen him," Julie told her. "Katie kept trying to put a purple lace hat on him. She wanted me to use magic to keep it up there, but I just couldn't do it to him."
Ashley couldn't help but laugh at that mental image.
"There's that smile I love so much," Julie said.
"Just sort of hiding," Ashley said.
"This hasn't been easy on any of us," Julie said. "But we're going to get through it. Together."
Ashley nodded. "I hope so."
"Good morning, Ashley," Oliver Wood said coming up behind them. "Julie."
"Good morning, Professor Wood," Ashley said politely.
"Good morning," Julie said.
"How are you both doing?" Oliver asked. "Holding it together?"
Julie nodded. "Doing as well as can be expected."
"Again, anything I can do to help, don't hesitate to ask," Oliver said.
Julie smiled at him. "We appreciate everything you've done, Oliver. You've been a great friend to our family."
Oliver nodded. "I'll see you both later. Enjoy your breakfast."
"Thanks, Professor," Ashley said.
"You go eat something," Julie said. "I'll see you in class, sweetheart."
"Okay," Ashley said giving her mother one more hug.
"Everything okay?" Zander asked when she rejoined them. "I saw you laughing up there."
Ashley told them about Katie's tea party with Puddles and Sophie. "It's hard not to laugh about that."
Brittany was giggling. "Your sister is too much!"
"Your sister is Brit all over again," Zander corrected.
"Except I had you to play tea party with," Brittany reminded him.
"Whatever," Zander turned red. "Could you please not broadcast that?"
"You were an unwilling participant," Brittany said.
"I think its sweet you played tea party with her," Ashley said. "I never would with Katie."
Zander turned even redder.
"You're embarrassing him, Ash." Brittany teased.
"Let's talk about something else then, shall we?" Zander asked.
"I've got your Christmas gifts," Ashley nodded. "Did we want to exchange today, or on the train?"
"Today!" Brittany answered without hesitation. "We could do it right after dinner."
"Okay," Ashley agreed. "Sounds good to me."
Brittany clapped her hands together. "I love presents!"
"We know," Zander rolled his eyes. "You should seriously see her Christmas morning, Ash."
"How bad is it?" Ashley asked.
"There have been casualties," Zander replied.
Ashley laughed. "Let me guess. She always has to go first?"
Brittany crossed her arms. "Hello! I'm sitting right here!"
Zander and Ashley laughed.
"Don't worry," Zander told her. "For our own safety, we'll let you open yours first."
"Good," Brittany said smugly.
The three Gryffindors finished their breakfast and headed off to their morning classes. Ashley was glad for the distraction.
"Snape first," Brittany moaned. "Just what I need first thing in the morning."
Ashley didn't say anything. Though the potions master was nice to her, she did see how bad he could be with some of the other students.
"Snape just has this way of looking at you like you're..." Zander started to say, not realizing Snape was right behind them.
"Like a good student," Ashley interjected quickly.
"I trust that you finished your essays," Snape said looking disdainfully at Zander and Brittany.
"Y-yes," Brittany stammered. She didn't scare easily, but Snape was beyond frightening.
"We all did, sir." Ashley told him.
Snape led the way into the classroom and he stood at the doorway. "Turn your essays in before you sit down."
Zander reached into his bag and pulled out the four feet of parchment he'd worked so hard at all last night.
"Here," Zander said handing it over. "I hope it's good, Professor."
Snape glared at him. "Six feet, I hope?"
Zander's jaw dropped. "S-six feet?"
"I specifically asked for six feet." Snape said icily.
"I did eight, professor," Ashley said hoping to take the heat off her friend.
"Thank you," Snape said, taking the paper from her. "You always go above and beyond, Miss Malfoy. Your friends...would be wise to follow your example."
"I thought you said four, sir," Zander said. What he was really thinking was how it was possible to do six feet of parchment on one potion ingredient. It had taken all he could to come up with four feet.
"Well, now perhaps you'll THINK that you're going to fail this assignment, Mr. Murray." Snape swept past him to the front of the classroom.
Zander glumly followed Ashley to their table. He set his books down and put his head in his hands. "I'm doomed. I'll have to repeat second year."
"No you won't," Ashley said reassuringly. "It's one assignment."
Zander looked at her. "Easy for you to say."
Ashley reached for his hand and squeezed it under the table. "I'll help you with the next one and he'll have to give you full marks.
"Ash, you don't have to do that," Zander told her. "You've already got enough to deal with."
"I want to," Ashley replied.
"Are you sure?" Zander asked.
"Positive," Ashley smiled at him and let go of his hand as Snape began the lesson.
Zander knew he should pay attention to what the professor was saying, but he couldn't help stealing a glance in Ashley's direction. He had taken some heat from the other boys in his year about having two girls for friends. He didn't really care what they said. Brit was his cousin and Ash...Ashley was just amazing.
He never once regretted his decision to approach her the year before and introduce himself. Ashley understood him like no one else did.
"Mr. Murray, have you a photographic memory where you don't need to take notes?" Snape barked, breaking him out of his reverie.
Zander jumped. "No, sir." he muttered, his face going red as the Slytherins laughed at him.
"Ignore them," Ashley whispered.
Zander again looked over at her gratefully. It him like a ton of bricks. He did fancy Ashley.
He was surprised he hadn't realised it before this. He thought about her all the time- especially over summer hols when they weren't together.
Ashley caught him looking at her and she smiled. "Okay?"
"Fine," Zander turned a bit red.
"Don't worry," Ashley told him. "This potion shouldn't be that hard to make. I'll help you with it."
"Don't know what we'd do without you," Zander tried to joke.
"You'll never have to find out," Ashley said with a grin. She started cutting some tubeworms.
Brittany peered over her shoulder at Zander. "You really okay?"
"No," Zander replied truthfully. "Um---yes. Fine."
Brittany didn't look convinced.
"Zander," Ashley tapped him on the shoulder. "Come on. Snape will be around checking our progress. Cut your worms."
"Right," Zander shook his head.
He picked up the small scalpel and began cutting.
Ashley put her hand over his. "Not so big. You have to cut them really small."
Zander could hardly breathe when she touched him. "Right," he forced a laugh. "As always." He really needed to get a grip.
"You sure are jumpy today," Ashley remarked.
"Snape," he muttered quietly. "Always makes me feel like a fool."
"You're giving him too much power," Ashley whispered. "You're letting him intimidate you."
"Easy to say when he likes you," Zander answered.
"Well, just imagine the look on his face when you ace the midterm," Ashley said nudging him. "Right?"
Zander had to smile at that. "Right."
"He'll be so surprised that his hair will turn white," Ashley said with a laugh.
Brittany let out a giggle at that.
"QUIET!" Snape barked.
Zander quickly put the cut up worms into his cauldron.
"Pour the red liquid in," Ashley whispered. "Very slowly. If you've done it right, the cauldron's ingredients will bubble and then turn blue."
Zander did as she instructed and was pleased when his cauldron's contents began to change hue.
Snape made his way down the aisle and finally made his way over to Ashley and Zander's station. He peered into Ashley's cauldron. "Excellent as always, Miss Malfoy."
"Thank you sir," Ashley replied.
"Let's see what damage you've done, Mr. Murray," Snape said icily. "I hope that---"
Zander folded his arms and looked at the potions master. "Yes, sir?" he asked trying to hide the smile.
Snape's mouth curled nastily. "Very.... good."
"Thank you, sir," Zander said waiting until Snape had moved on before finally grinning.
"See?" Ashley smiled at him.
"Thanks to you!" Zander said impulsively hugging her.
Brittany resisted the urge to roll her eyes at the pair.
Ashley laughed. "I helped. You were the one who did it. I'm proud of you!"
"Thanks," Zander grinned at her.
"You said that already," Ashley reminded him.
"Yeah but it's never enough for how much you always help," Zander replied.
"That's what friends to," Ashley said.
"You're just the best," he told her.
Ashley blushed. "I'd do anything for you, Zander. You and Brit have meant so much to me. You're the first real friends I've ever had."
"And that's why you both bought me great Christmas presents," Brittany answered.
Zander gathered up his books and shook his head. "Brit...You haven't been peeking, have you?"
"Me?" Brittany asked innocently.
"Half the fun is the surprise," Ashley pointed out.
"Sure, sure." Brittany waved her hand.
Zander and Ashley exchanged a look.
"After dinner," Zander said firmly.
"Red is my favourite colour," Brittany told Ashley. "So, I'm sure I will love the gloves."
With that, she strode out of the classroom.
Zander looked at Ashley. "Did you get her gloves?"
Ashley grinned. "No, I made her THINK I got her gloves."
Zander laughed loudly. "You ARE a genius!"
"I caught her looking under my bed the other night," Ashley confided. "I knew what she was looking for. So, I took a pair of my new gloves and put them in a box and marked it with her name."
"That's great," Zander chuckled as they headed for Charms.
"What did you get her?" Ashley asked.
"You'll see," Zander answered.
Ashley linked her arm in his. "I should be thanking you. For the first time, in a long time, I don't feel so---bad. I was beginning to think that nothing was going to work out. Now, I have hope."
Zander smiled. "That's why we're friends. I'll always be here for you Ash."
Ashley felt tears well up in her eyes. "Oh, Zander."
"I didn't mean to make you cry," he said anxiously.
"These are happy tears," Ashley reassured him hastily.
"Good," he said.
The rest of the afternoon passed by in a blur for Ashley.
She kept hoping that her mother would suddenly appear and say that everything was okay, that her aunt and uncle were home safely.
All was not lost though. Her mother did have some good news. Apparently her grandmother had pulled some strings and her grandfather had been released that morning.
"I'm so glad," Ashley gave her mother a hug. "Will you tell Grandpa I love him and I can't wait to see him?"
"I will," Julie promised.
"Thanks Mum," Ashley said.
"Excuse me, Professor Malfoy," Brittany said, grabbing Ashley by the arm. "We're going to open presents now."
Julie grinned. "Oh..."
"I thought we were going to wait until AFTER dinner?" Ashley asked.
"I can't wait!" Brittany exclaimed. "Come on..."
"You mean you can't wait for your new GLOVES?" Ashley teased.
"I have no idea what you're talking about," Brittany said innocently.
"Sure you don't," Ashley shook her head.
"You girls go on," Julie said giving her daughter one last hug. "I'll see you tomorrow morning."
"Bye Mum," Ashley waved over her shoulder as Brittany dragged her off.
"So, I'll open mine first," Brittany said as they walked through the portrait hole.
"We already said you would," Ashley said. "Because you can't wait."
"I just love presents," Brittany said defensively. "Zander said he'd meet us in the common room. Let's go and get our gifts and meet him down here."
"Sounds good," she said as they hurried up to their dormitory.
Ashley quickly gathered her boxes and a few moments later, she and Brittany met Zander in the common room in front of the fireplace.
"Me first!" Brittany said excitedly. "Me first!"
Ashley laughed and handed over her gift to Brittany. She had found some pretty hair ribbons and clips in Aunt Lavender's boutique. She hoped that her friend would like them.
"Oh my gosh!" Brittany said. "These are designer! Ash!"
"You like them?" Ashley asked. "I mean, they aren't gloves..."
"You totally tricked me," Brittany said. "But this is soooooo worth it!"
Ashley gave her a hug. "I'm so glad you love them."
"Okay Zander," Brittany said. "Your turn! What did you get me!"
Zander shrugged. "Nothing."
Brittany's jaw dropped.
"Only joking," Zander said reaching behind his back and pulling out a present. "Here you go, Brit."
"Thank goodness," Brittany tore into it. "I thought I'd have to kill you- Oooooh! Did you pick this out?" she held up a jumper.
"Your mum may have helped," Zander said. "Okay, she told me what you wanted."
Ashley laughed. "Good thinking, Zander."
"I love it," Brittany said hugging it to her. "Now...which one of you wants to go next?"
"Go ahead Ash," Zander said.
Brittany handed Ashley a box. "I hope you like these."
Ashley smiled. "I'm sure I will." She unwrapped the gift and saw her friend had bought her some new paint brushes and paints. "Brit!"
"I wasn't sure what else to get you," Brittany confessed. "And you're always saying you need more of these."
"I do!" Ashley exclaimed. "I saw these in my favourite art shoppe and I was thinking of getting them myself over the holidays."
"Well I'm glad I thought of it then," Brittany was obviously pleased with herself.
Zander hesitantly handed Ashley a small package. "It's---it's not much," he warned her ahead of time.
"I'm sure I'll love whatever it is," Ashley said as Brittany ran over to a group of friends to show off her gifts.
Zander certainly hoped so. He watched as Ashley slowly unwrapped the gift.
"It's a CD," she said, turning it over. "Zander! It's the song you wrote!"
Zander nodded. "I told you it wasn't much. I know you can't listen to it here, but you know once you get home…"
"I'll play it while I work," Ashley said. "Thank you so, so, much Zander. This is the best present."
Zander blushed. "Happy Christmas, Ash."
Ashley impulsively gave him a kiss on the cheek. "I can't wait to listen to it."
Zander sat there dumbfounded while Ashley went off to show Brittany.
"Wow," Brittany said. "I didn't know he was doing THAT. That's so cool!"
"I just wish I could listen to it now," Ashley said. "Zander...you need to open up my present."
"Sure..." Zander said, still in a bit of a daze.
Brittany and Ashley sat back down as they watched him open up his present.
"A broomstick servicing kit," Zander said. "Ashley!"
"Since you love flying so much," Ashley grinned at him.
"And his goal in life is to make the team next year," Brittany said.
"You will," Ashley predicted.
"And your aunt and uncle are going to come home too," Brittany said. "I know it."
"That would be the best," Ashley said softly.
"It will be," Brittany said determinedly.
Zander also opened up his gift from his cousin, which was a pair of professional Quidditch gloves.
"Just like RJ Weasley and Andrew Kirke wear," Brittany told him.
"This is great," Zander said. "Thanks, Brit!"
"Naturally," Brittany said with a grin.
"I can hardly wait to use these when I get home," Ashley said. "BOTH my presents."
"We'll have to come and visit sometime during hols," Zander said.
Ashley nodded. "Anytime."
"Happy Christmas," Brittany said to them.
"You too," Ashley hugged her friend.
Zander was glad to see his best friend smiling again, but he knew that neither he nor Brittany could give Ashley the one thing she wanted more than anything---her aunt and uncle home, safe and sound.
"I'm going to put these in my trunk so nothing happens to them," Ashley said.
"Okay," Brittany said. "And then we can go down to dinner. I'm starving."
"Me too," Zander said, glancing at Ashley.
Ashley offered to take Brittany's things upstairs and Brittany was glad to have a moment alone with her cousin. "Nice present, cousin."
"Thanks," Zander said.
"I think Ashley really loved it," Brittany said.
"I hope so," Zander said. "It took me awhile to write it."
"Ashley's song," Brittany said softly.
"It's called Midnight Forest," Zander said quickly.
"It's called you fancy Ashley," Brittany said. "And I know you, so don't even bother denying it. Anyone can see it. But, don't worry. I won't tell her."
Zander didn't say anything, but looked away towards the fire.
"I promise not to say a word," Brittany told him again.
"Whatever," he muttered.
"Zander," Brittany said. "I wouldn't."
"Good," Zander grabbed his things. "I'll... I'll be right back."
"Hurry though," Brittany called after him.
Zander put his new things on his bed and hurried back down the stairs. Ashley was talking to Brittany near the fireplace.
The light from the fire was doing something to Ashley's hair and Zander felt a strange feeling in his stomach as he looked at her.
He bit his lower lip and stuffed his hands into his pockets. He had to get control of himself, and fast.
*** *** ***
Harry had never been so relieved to be home. His wife had finally managed to get an order releasing him from jail, although he still had to deal with the creep from the pub. For now, though, he was putting all his efforts back into the search for his children.
"Grandpa!" Katie squealed, running toward him.
"Hi, Katie bear," Harry said, hugging her.
"We missed you!" Katie exclaimed. "Soooooo much!"
"I missed you too," Harry kissed her cheek.
Puddles yelped and looked up at Harry with sad eyes.
"Hey there buddy," Harry set Katie down and scratched behind the dog's ears.
"He really misses Aunt Saffy," Katie told him. "He keeps looking at her picture and whimpering."
"I know," Harry said. "I know..."
"Welcome home, Harry," Nick said coming into the room.
"Thanks Nick," Harry said. "Thanks for keeping an eye on things for me."
"Where's Grandma?" Katie asked.
"She'll be back soon," Nick told his daughter.
"Come on, Puddles," Katie said. "You, me, and Sophie have a tea party."
"Poor thing," Nick said as Katie led the dog away.
Harry barely heard a word that Nick said.
"I really need to get to the office," Harry raked his hands through his hair.
"Jules should be coming back from Hogwarts soon," Nick said. "I know she'd love to see you."
"I'll make sure I'm back as soon as possible," Harry said. "But Jules knows that I have to stay on top of this case. I've wasted enough time."
"I'll tell her," Nick said. "We're all really glad that you're out, Harry."
"Thanks," Harry smiled for the first time in a long time. "I'll be back soon."
He made it back to headquarters and was happy to see that it was as busy as ever.
"Harry," Neville said. "Welcome back- you're just in time."
"What's going on?" Harry asked.
"We just got a new note from Gordon," Neville informed him.
Harry looked at his old friend. "Just now?"
"Not even five minutes ago," Neville said. "And I don't think you're going to like what it says."
Harry paled and snatched the note off the table.
"My Dear Minister," Harry read aloud. "I have been planning this for so long. I can hardly believe that all my hard work is about to pay off. I have taken good care of Ethan and Saffron."
"All good things must come to an end, however... and I am about to finish off my 'collection'... with a beautiful brunette named Julie Liliane."
"I have seen her walking on the grounds at Hogwarts," Harry continued, his grip tightening on the letter. "She walks with the new headmaster, talking to him about how much she misses her brother and sister. I had to stop myself from walking up and telling her that she would be reunited with them soon."
Neville was almost as angry as Harry at these words.
"It won't be long now, my love. After Julie, I'll be back for you. We'll have that family we always dreamed of."
"I'm going to kill that son-of-a-bitch," Harry said angrily.
Neville shook his head grimly. "We need to send word to Hogwarts immediately."
"How the hell is he getting close enough to see her?" Harry asked. "Hmmm?"
"I don't know," Neville answered. "But we won't let him touch her."
"Will you have someone send word to my house?" Harry asked. "I need Julie to come here straightaway."
"I'll do it," Natalie Worthington stood up and hurried out of the room.
Neville watched Harry pace.
"I had this nightmare," Harry said. "When I was in jail, he took them from me. They all went to him and they blamed me for not being able to protect them. Neville---"
"We won't let anything happen to Julie," Neville promised. "And if we can get Gordon, we can make him lead us to Ethan and Saffron."
Julie arrived at the Ministry a few minutes later with Nick. "Dad? Has something happened?"
Harry showed Julie the letter. "Have you noticed anyone, anything... out of the ordinary at school?"
Julie felt shaken as she read the letter. Gordon Devereaux had been close enough to watch her. She shook her head. "No, I haven't---"
"He won't get to you," Harry said. "I promise, Jules."
Julie looked at her father. "Dad---maybe...maybe we could use this to our advantage..."
"What do you mean, Jules?" Harry asked.
"What if you could use me as bait?" Julie asked. "You'd be able to catch Gordon and make him tell you where Ethan and Saffy are."
Nick vehemently shook his head. "No way, Julie. I'm not letting you anywhere near that lunatic."
"I agree," Harry said. "He's clever, I have to give him that. He could easily disappear with you."
"This might be our only chance," Julie argued. "Nothing else has worked, Dad."
"No way Jules," Nick argued. "I'm not letting you out of my sight."
"Nick," Julie said. "Listen to me..."
"No, Jules." Nick answered. "I know it's Ethan and Saffy, but I couldn't stand losing you."
"I agree with Nick," Harry said. "I'm not going to put you at risk."
Julie sighed. "We can't just let this opportunity pass!"
"We don't have to," Harry said, looking up. "I'll pose as you, Julie."
"H-how?" Julie asked.
"Polyjuice," Harry replied. "I'll go as you, let him get me alone... and I'll bring back Ethan and Saffron."
"That could work," Neville said nodding.
"It's the only option we have," Harry said.
Little did they know, Ethan had come up with his own plan to get him and Saffron out. Saffron had spent most of the day, lying down and complaining of a stomach ache. She wasn't sick, but they had to convince Gordon somehow.
"You're burning up!" Ethan said loudly.
"Ethan," Saffron said hoarsely.
"It's okay, we just need to get you some medicine," Ethan said.
Gordon had been out most of the day, delivering his letter to Hermione.
"Bastard," Ethan sighed. "Why won't he answer?"
Saffron didn't say anything in response to that for fear that he was listening. They had to make this believable.
"It just hurts so much," she moaned, rubbing her hands over her stomach.
"What's wrong, my love?" Gordon's voice echoed in the room.
"I'm sick," Saffron answered.
"She has a fever and she hasn't eaten anything all day," Ethan called out to him. "I don't know anything about healing spells. I've never seen her like this."
Gordon was silent and Ethan feared he was going to leave them again when the door cracked open.
Gordon looked over at Saffron lying on the bed. "What's wrong, Saffron Grace?"
"My stomach," Saffron averted her eyes from him.
"She's burning up," Ethan said looking at Gordon. He could practically see the wheels turning in the other man's head.
"I just want to see a healer," Saffron murmured.
"I can't do that," Gordon apologised. "I--I might have some potions that---"
"I need to see a healer!" Saffron moaned loudly. "PLEASE!"
Gordon looked at Saffron and then at Ethan, mulling over his choices. "Stand back," Gordon told Ethan.
"No," Ethan replied.
"STAND BACK!" Gordon roared.
Ethan took a miniscule step back. He knew he could most likely make a run for it, but he refused to leave his sister behind.
Gordon waved his hand and the ward protecting the room came down. He held out his wand and pointed it at Ethan. "One move and I'll kill her. You got me?"
Ethan nodded, swallowing hard.
Gordon kept one eye on Ethan as he approached the bed. He gingerly sat down on the bed and put his hand on Saffron's forehead. "You are quite warm."
Saffron nodded without saying anything.
Gordon looked at Ethan once more and then leaned over to get a better look at Saffron.
"Will you lay down with me?" Saffron asked looking at him with pleading eyes. "Daddy?"
Gordon sucked in his breath sharply at her request. Ethan also stared at her in disbelief.
"You called me 'Daddy'," Gordon said softly. "Saffron Grace...."
"Daddy, please help me," Saffron faked a few tears. "It hurts so bad..."
Gordon was taken aback at hearing the words he'd so longed to hear.
Ethan came up slowly behind him.
"Daddy..." Saffron wheedled. "Please--"
"I-I'll help you," Gordon said leaning over her to give her a hug.
Ethan raised his arm to hit the older man on his head.
Gordon gathered up the young girl in his arms.
With a shout, Ethan hit Gordon over the back of the head.
Ethan told himself to act like an Auror and not a big brother. He watched as Gordon fell forward with Saffron. Ethan grabbed for Gordon's wand.
"Ow!" Saffron's breath was knocked out of her as Gordon fell on top of her.
Ethan pointed the wand at Gordon's body and within moments, he'd set a body binding charm on the older man.
"Saf?" Ethan asked, shoving Gordon out of the way. "Saf?"
"I'm... okay..." Saffron wheezed.
Ethan offered her his hand. "Come on. We--we have to get out of here."
Saffron nodded as he helped her up.
He looked at the older man, still lying unconscious on the floor. He had to remember where they were so a team of Aurors could find Gordon and bring him to justice.
"Ethan come ON!" Saffron was already out the door.
Ethan nodded and followed her out. He locked the door behind them, not wanting to take any chances.
"We're out!" Saffron said, tears springing to her eyes.
Ethan hugged her tightly. "It's over, Saffy! We're going home!"
"Let's get out of here," Saffron buried her face in his shoulder for a moment. She couldn't suppress her shudder at the thought of Gordon picking her up.
"Right," Ethan said. "Look...he's probably warded the entire house with anti-apparition spells. We need to get outside and Apparate."
Saffron nodded. "I'll do whatever you want me to do."
Ethan got a good look at the small house where Gordon had been keeping them. He followed Saffron out of the house. It was a simple Muggle-looking neighbourhood where they'd been kept. The fresh, cold air felt good on their faces.
"It's been so long since I've even been outside..." Saffron said.
Ethan took her hand. "We're going to Apparate to the Ministry. Okay?"
Saffron nodded, taking his hand and squeezing it in hers.
Ethan focused all his attention on the task at hand and tried not to think about what they'd just gone through. The important thing was getting them home.
Back at the Ministry, Julie, Nick, Hermione and Harry were going over the details of their plan.
Natalie knocked on the door.
Harry turned around impatiently. "Natalie---I've told you...."
"I'm sorry, sir," Natalie said. "But the front desk just called. There's something downstairs you need to see."
"What is it?" Harry asked.
"They wouldn't say," Natalie said. "Only that it was important."
Harry sighed. "I don't have time for this!"
"They asked for you to come, too, Minister," Natalie said.
"What on earth..." Hermione rose from the table. "Come on Harry."
The four of them travelled down in the lift. Harry was going to kill the security wizards at the front desk if they were wasting his time.
"I just don't know if I can take any more bad news," Hermione said to her husband.
Harry couldn't have agreed more. He stalked toward the front desk. "What the hell is it? I asked that we not be---"
"Daddy?"
-->