Authors' note: Thanks you guys for the anniversary wishes! We appreciated it! This chapter brings you some fluff with Ethan/Maddie and then finally---the Quidditch match! Please read and review!
For the most part, Ethan had settled back into his life as an Auror, husband and new father with relative ease. He hadn't had nearly the same trouble as his younger sister in getting back to some form of normalcy.
That wasn't to say that he didn't look over his shoulder more often than he did before or get up in the middle of the night to make sure there were wards on the house and that all the doors were locked and secured.
There were also some nights where he was awake for most of it- especially ones like this. It was windy and very cold outside and Ethan didn't feel like he could get warm. Maddie was sleeping peacefully and he didn't want to wake her up.
He shivered, thinking about the dream that had just woken him up. It wasn't the first nightmare he'd had about Gordon Devereaux, but it HAD been the first that involved his daughter.
In the dream, he'd heard his daughter's cries and he'd walked through the house trying to get to her. When he'd opened the door to the nursery, he found himself back in that same room where Gordon had kept him and Saffy captive. Gordon was sitting on the bed holding Kiera in his arms.
His efforts to get her away had been futile. The madman had laughed the entire time, walking away while Ethan fought against invisible restraints.
The nightmare had seemed so real that it had shaken Ethan to his core.
Quietly slipping out of bed so he wouldn't wake his wife, Ethan went down the hall to his daughter's room.
Kiera was safe and sound in her crib and Ethan sighed in relief. She looked so innocent and peaceful.
"Hey, baby girl," Ethan whispered.
One brown eye and one blue eye peeked up at him.
"You couldn't sleep, either?" Ethan asked softly.
Kiera gave him a gummy smile.
Ethan gingerly picked her up and held her to him.
She let out a soft cooing sound and rested her head on his chest.
"I heard what you did today," Ethan said sitting down in the rocking chair. "For your Aunt Darla..."
Kiera grinned again, waving a tiny arm in the air.
Ethan laughed. "What else can you do, huh?"
He rocked her back and forth for a few minutes, his eyes travelling over her face. He'd never seen such a perfect human being before in his life.
"Can you read my thoughts?" Ethan asked her. "Hmmm?"
Kiera's eyes focused in on his.
"I'm scared to death that something's going to happen to you and I won't be able to stop it," Ethan whispered.
Kiera's little fingers touched the side of his face, almost in a comforting manner.
Tears welled up in Ethan's eyes. She reminded him so much of Maddie. "I'd die before I let anything happen to you, Kiera."
"Ethan?" Maddie asked from the doorway. "Are you all right?"
"Mads," Ethan said using his free hand to wipe his eyes. "What are you doing up?"
"You weren't in bed," Maddie replied.
"I thought I heard Kiera," Ethan lied. "I came to check on her."
Maddie shook her head. "Ethan..."
Ethan didn't meet her gaze. "She was awake."
"You can't hide things from me, you know that." Maddie knelt down next to the chair.
"Everything's fine," Ethan said.
Kiera whimpered.
"Ethan, don't hide things from me, please." Maddie said.
Ethan was silent for what seemed like a long time.
"I had a nightmare," Ethan finally told her.
"About Gordon," Maddie said perceptively.
Ethan nodded and patted Kiera's back. "He had her and I couldn't get to her."
"Oh Ethan," Maddie replied quietly. "You know that could never happen..."
"Do I?" Ethan asked her.
"He can't hurt anyone anymore," Maddie said.
"My parents have enemies other than Gordon," Ethan said quietly. "And I've made more than my own fair share. What if someone else comes along wanting to get back at me and does it through her, Maddie?"
"We can't think that way," Maddie told him. "Do you know what could happen if it became public knowledge that I'm a Seer?"
Ethan did know and he didn't want to think about those consequences.
"We just can't stay in that mind frame," Maddie told him.
"You and Kiera are everything to me," Ethan said looking at his wife.
"And you two are everything to me," Maddie said, running her fingers through his messy hair.
Ethan smiled. "I thought I was holding up so well and then something like this happens..."
"It's natural," she assured him.
"They keep wanting me to talk to someone," Ethan said shaking his head. "I didn't think I needed to, but maybe they're right."
"I'll go with you, if you want," Maddie volunteered.
"I'd like that," Ethan said smiling at her.
"I'd do anything to help you get through this," Maddie said softly.
"What did I do to deserve you?" Ethan asked her.
"I don't know," she joked as Kiera grinned at her.
"She's not going to sleep anytime soon," Ethan laughed.
"Probably not," Maddie agreed. "I should see if she's hungry."
"What do you say, Kiera?" Ethan asked his daughter. "You want to go to Mummy?"
Kiera cooed, still grinning at her mother.
"I love her smiles," Maddie said taking the baby from Ethan. "Every single one of them."
"They're just like yours," Ethan replied.
"And she always knows just what to do to make you feel better," Maddie said smiling at him.
"Another trait from you," Ethan said softly.
"I try," Maddie said kissing her daughter's cheek.
"You feed her," Ethan said. "I've got to use the loo."
Maddie sat down in the rocking chair with Kiera. "You've had quite a big day, haven't you?" Maddie whispered to her daughter when they were alone.
"Ooooh..." Kiera replied.
"Your daddy loves you so much," Maddie told her.
Kiera blinked as she began to nurse.
Ethan came back into the room a few moments later and he watched his wife from the doorway.
"You were a hungry girl," Maddie commented.
"Another thing she has in common with her mum," Ethan joked.
"You startled me!" Maddie jumped.
"I'm sorry," Ethan said, handing her a towel.
"It's okay," Maddie replied as Kiera continued to nurse.
"She's absolutely perfect, isn't she?" Ethan asked.
Maddie nodded. "I've never seen anything so perfect before. I can't get over her."
"I was thinking that earlier," Ethan said sitting down on the floor. "I was having a little talk with her. I think she understands."
"I'm sure she does, in some way," she agreed.
"I still can't get over what she did with Darla," Ethan commented.
"That was incredible," Maddie shook her head as her daughter finished.
"You going to tell Smythe?" Ethan asked.
"I'd planned on it, yes," she nodded.
"I wonder if she'll be a Seer like you," Ethan said thoughtfully.
"I'm sure she's going to do something with reading minds," Maddie said.
Ethan grinned. "I guess we'll have trouble during Christmas. She'll always know what we're going to get her."
Maddie laughed. "She'll always get what she wants then, won't she?"
"Probably," Ethan said. "She already has us wrapped around her little finger."
"Absolutely," Maddie said, gazing down adoringly.
Kiera held her little hand up at Maddie.
"My sweet girl," Maddie said as Kiera wrapped her hand around her finger.
Ethan heard a rustling sound and went on full alert.
Maddie's eyebrows knit together. "Ethan?"
"Accio wand!" Ethan shouted.
Maddie stood up, holding her daughter protectively. "Ethan what's going on?"
Ethan's wand flew into his hand. He stood in front of his wife and daughter. "I heard something," Ethan replied. "Stay behind me, Maddie."
Maddie nodded, still holding Kiera close.
Ethan held his wand out in front of him. He couldn't understand how anyone could have broken through the wards he'd set.
"Maybe it was just a tree branch," Maddie suggested.
The rustling sound seemed to get louder and Ethan whirled around. "It's coming from the closet," Ethan whispered.
Maddie grew pale.
Ethan walked over to the closet, his wand ready. He swung open the door and nearly had a heart attack when Blue flew out of the closet, cackling.
"Blue!" Maddie scolded.
"Damn it, Blue!" Ethan cursed.
"That was a bad pixie," Maddie told him. "Go in your cage."
Blue pouted and shook his head.
"Right now," Maddie repeated firmly.
Blue flitted above her head before flying down and placing a kiss on Kiera's forehead. The baby giggled and waved her little hand at him.
Ethan shook his head. "That scared the shit out of me."
"Me too," Maddie said. "I know I had him in his cage before we went to sleep. I don't know how he got out."
Ethan sighed and sat down.
"It's okay, Ethan," Maddie said softly. "It was nothing."
"But it could have been someone," Ethan said. "In here, with her."
"But, it wasn't," Maddie said gently. "And you have this place warded so well. No one's getting in here."
Ethan just shook his head.
Maddie set the baby down in the crib and knelt down in front of her husband. "Ethan..."
"I wouldn't be able to live with myself if something happened to either of you," he told her.
"We're going to do whatever we can to protect her and keep her safe," Maddie said taking his hands in hers.
Ethan nodded.
"I love you," Maddie said softly. "And I'm not going anywhere."
"I love you too," Ethan said quietly.
"And our little girl loves you too," Maddie said smiling at him. "You're her hero."
Ethan had to smile at that.
"And you're mine too," Maddie said. "You've always been."
"Thanks Mads," Ethan said, pulling her into his lap.
Maddie laughed. "There's my Ethan."
He hugged her to him tightly.
"I wish you would have told me about this sooner," Maddie said. "I want to help you."
"I haven't had too many nightmares," Ethan said. "Not like Saffy."
"When you do, tell me," Maddie said. "We promised not to keep secrets from each other, remember?"
"I will," he promised. "From now on."
"Good," Maddie said giving him a kiss.
Kiera cooed from her crib.
"She agrees with me," Maddie grinned.
"Like I keep saying," Ethan said. "Just like her mum."
Maddie grinned even wider. "I love being her mum."
"And I love being her mum's husband," Ethan joked.
Maddie laughed. "We should probably go to bed. It's late and we both have work tomorrow."
He nodded. "Good idea."
Maddie stood up and walked over to the crib. "Good night, my baby girl. Sweet dreams."
Ethan stood next to her. "Night, sweetheart," he said, tracing a finger over her smooth cheek.
Kiera grinned up at him.
Ethan took one last look at her before following Maddie back to their bedroom.
Maddie pulled off her dressing gown and slid back under the covers.
"Hopefully no more drama tonight," Ethan said, climbing in next to her.
"Only good dreams," Maddie said cuddling up beside him.
"With you lying next to me like this?" Ethan asked. "Impossible..."
Maddie smiled. "I love you, Ethan."
"Love you too," Ethan said, pulling her closer.
Maddie kissed him. "I'm always going to be here for you."
He brushed back her hair, looking at her in silence for a few moments.
"What?" Maddie asked softly.
"I just love looking at you," he replied.
"And I love being held by you," Maddie said resting her head on his chest. "It's my most favourite place to be."
Ethan stroked her hair. "What was it like?" he asked. "Today... when Kiera found out Darla was pregnant?"
Maddie smiled at the memory of it. "It was amazing, Ethan. I don't even know how to put it into words. There was just this connection between Kiera and me..."
"You read her mind?" he asked.
"Yes," Maddie said softly. "She looked at me and I just...I could hear her."
"That's amazing," Ethan said.
"I just hope that we can help her with this while she grows up," Maddie said thoughtfully.
"Me too," Ethan agreed.
"I don't ever want her to feel hurt or strange because of her gifts," Maddie said.
"Never," Ethan held her tighter. "She'll always know she can come to us."
"For anything," Maddie said softly. She remembered all too well about how she'd been treated at Hogwarts because she wasn't like her fellow students.
Ethan ran his hands along her back through her hair. "Anything at all. And when she has brothers and sisters, she can go to them too."
"Brothers and sisters," Maddie said dreamily.
"You'll have to let me know when we can get started on that," Ethan said huskily.
"Ethan Potter," Maddie said lifting her head to look at him. "There's no time like the present..."
"I thought you had to get the okay from your healer," Ethan said in confusion.
"I did," Maddie said trailing her fingers down his chest. "And as of yesterday, we're good to go..."
"You've been holding out on me then," Ethan smiled at her.
"Things have been a little busy around here lately," Maddie reminded him. "I was going to tell you, but with all the excitement over Darla, it kind of slipped my mind."
Ethan kissed her. "Well then Mrs. Potter..."
"It's been a long, long time," Maddie purred.
"Too long," he agreed.
Maddie gave him a kiss. "Kiera's sleeping, Blue's in his cage..."
"We've got all the time in the world," Ethan finished.
"And I've missed this," Maddie said as Ethan's hands slid underneath her night shirt.
"We haven't done this since... before..." Ethan's voice trailed off.
Maddie touched his cheek. "I know."
"I told myself I'm not going to think about that anymore," he said.
"I know it hasn't been easy," Maddie said softly.
"You've helped," Ethan told her.
"I'm glad," Maddie said. "We're all here for you."
Ethan pulled her over on top of him. "I know how you can be here for me right now..."
Maddie grinned. "Oh, you do, do you?"
"Mmmhmmm..." Ethan said.
Maddie leaned down and kissed him. "Like this?"
"That's exactly what I was looking for," he answered.
Maddie lifted her night shirt up over her head and tossed it to the floor. "And this?"
"Oh yes," he nodded.
Maddie pulled down on his pyjama bottoms. "We won't need these, either..."
"Just in the way," Ethan said, helping her.
"Absolutely," Maddie said. "Much, much better..."
"You read my mind," Ethan said with a grin.
"It's easy," Maddie said grinning back at him. "You have that look in your eyes..."
"I always get that look when it comes to you," he said, tugging at her knickers.
"And everyone says I have the look," Maddie said shaking her head. "Yours is pretty good, too."
"I think it's only irresistible to you though," he said.
"It better be," Maddie said leaning down and kissing him. "I don't like to share."
"You'll never have to share me," Ethan replied.
"Just the way I like it," Maddie murmured. "Ethan..."
He was running his hands over her body, feeling curves under his palms.
"Ethan," Maddie said his name again, closing her eyes.
Ethan rolled her over so he was on top. He pressed his lips to her neck.
"Please," Maddie whispered.
"You want me already?" he teased.
Maddie nodded. "It's been so long, Ethan."
Ethan nodded, pushing himself up.
Maddie looked adoringly at her husband. "I love you, Ethan."
"I love you too," Ethan answered softly.
"Let it all go," Maddie said putting her arms around him. "Let it all go, Ethan."
He pushed himself into her and Maddie arched her back.
Maddie's eyes locked with his. "Welcome home, Ethan."
Ethan nodded, unable to verbally respond.
Maddie wrapped her legs around him, pulling him deep inside her.
Ethan let out a guttural moan, burying his face in her shoulder.
Maddie felt breathless and dizzy as she moved with her husband. She never wanted to go that long without being with him again.
"Mads," he gasped out, breathing heavily.
Maddie smiled in satisfaction. She loved hearing him say her name like that.
"I've missed you so much," Ethan said, pushing himself off to her side.
"I missed you too," Maddie whispered. "That was...that was ..."
"Amazing," he finished for her. "I hope that in nine months time we'll be lucky."
"If we're not, I'll handle it better than I did last time," Maddie promised.
"And I'll be here for every minute of your pregnancy if you are," Ethan swore.
Maddie smiled. "You're not going to miss another minute of Kiera growing up either, Ethan."
He shook his head. "I'm going to be home as often as possible."
"You're a great father," Maddie said smiling at him.
"You're a terrific mum," he said, nudging her.
Maddie laughed. "Well, I guess Kiera's one lucky girl then."
"Yes she is," Ethan agreed.
Maddie cuddled up beside him. "We should really get some sleep."
"Might be a good idea," Ethan fought a huge yawn.
"You think?" Maddie asked nudging him.
Ethan wrapped his arms around her. "Long as I don't get any more nightmares."
"If you do, you're going to talk to me about them and let me help you," Maddie told him. "No more secrets."
"I'll tell you everything from now on," Ethan said. "Promise."
Maddie closed her eyes and hoped that Ethan would keep that promise. She wanted nothing more than for him to put what had happened with Gordon Devereaux behind him.
*** *** ***
The day of Saffron's first big match arrived. She'd had to dress in her own locker room, but was now sitting with the rest of the team as the coach gave them a pep talk.
"This is a huge match for us," the coach was saying. "Wimbourne is in first place and we have the opportunity to change that. You lot are a great team and all the pieces are fitting together now. "
"Plus we have our secret weapon," RJ slung his arm around Saffron's shoulders. "No one will even get NEAR the snitch with her around!"
Her team mates shouted their agreement and pumped their fists. Saffron blushed.
She didn't notice that Daniel O'Neal was the only one who didn't join in with the others.
"All right," the coach chuckled. "Now just remember, we need at least one hundred thirty points before we can catch the snitch. Just try to keep it in your sight until then."
"Right," Saffron nodded.
Everyone got their brooms and headed out toward the pitch. Saffron had never before been nervous before a match, but she was nervous now.
RJ shot O'Neal a smug look as he passed by him to walk next to Saffron. He'd never cared for the reserve Seeker and was only too glad to see him kicked aside.
"Don't be nervous," RJ told Saffron. "Just because everyone you know and love is in the stands watching along with thousands of fans..."
"I know, I know," she said. "Pretend it's a practise..."
"And think about the fact that you'll be able to lord it over Andrew for the next few weeks," RJ grinned.
Saffron smiled. "That's a very tempting thought."
Saffron was about to follow her team mates out on the pitch when she spotted her parents standing with Alexa and Gabe by the exit.
"Mum, Dad," Saffron said. "What are you doing down here?"
"We wanted to wish you luck today, sweetheart," Harry said.
"I'm so glad you did," Saffron said giving him a hug. "How's Mum holding up?" she whispered in his ear.
"She says she's not going to watch," Harry said wryly.
"I heard that," Hermione said swatting him on the shoulder. "I am too going to watch. I have faith in my little girl. I know she's not going to fall off her broom..."
"I never fall off my broom," Saffron said.
"Let's keep it that way," Hermione said giving her daughter a hug.
"Look at you in your uniform!" Alexa gushed. "Saffy, this is it! You're playing in your first professional match!"
"Dream come true, right?" Saffron hugged her tightly. "I'm so glad you're here, Lexie."
"I wouldn't miss this for the world," Alexa said. "And I even convinced my boyfriend the bookworm to take a break this weekend to come watch the match!"
"Yeah right," Gabriel said but he grinned. "I wouldn't miss it either."
"I'm glad," Saffron said giving him a hug. "I'm glad that you're all here."
"We'll be cheering for you, baby." Hermione said.
"Saffy!" RJ called out. "We need to get out there!"
"I'll see you lot after the match," Saffron promised.
Saffron hurried to catch up to the rest of the team. The weather was cooperating for once and Saffron knew you couldn't have asked for a better day for a match. Across the pitch, she caught sight of Andrew who was warming up with his team mates.
Her heart skipped a beat at the sight of him, but she told herself there was no way she'd go easy on him or his team.
"Nervous?" Daniel asked, sidling up beside her.
"No," Saffron replied coolly.
"It's okay if you are," Daniel said smoothly. "I was nervous the day of my first match. I think I threw up about fifty times that morning."
"Sorry to hear that," Saffron tried to move away but he caught up to her.
"I know you and Kirke have something going on," Daniel said. "I just hope it won't affect your play today."
"I know how to keep my personal and professional lives separate," Saffron snapped at him.
Daniel held up his hands and laughed. "I know. I was just looking out for my team mate. I'd like us to be friends, Saffy. We got along quite well on New Year's..."
"That was hardly me," Saffron replied. "I was pissed."
"I think it was you," Daniel said looking at her in such a way that it made her very uncomfortable. "Your guard was let down and you were free. I don't mind saying that I liked that girl I met on New Year's."
"She doesn't exist," Saffron said, glaring at him. "So get over it."
Daniel studied her for a few moments. "Good luck today, Potter."
Saffron didn't respond and he finally walked away.
Andrew ran across the pitch so he could wish her good luck. "Is it bad to have impure thoughts about the opposing team's seeker?" he asked tapping her on the shoulder.
Saffron jumped. "What?"
Andrew grinned. "I didn't mean to scare you. I just wanted to come over and wish you luck."
"Thanks," Saffron smiled at him. "But don't think it's going to make me soften up on your Seeker."
"I know you better than that," Andrew said reaching for her hand.
Saffron squeezed it and started to say something, but her eyes caught Natalia's from across the field.
Andrew noticed the change in his girlfriend's demeanour and he turned and followed her gaze. Natalia quickly looked away.
"How are things with her?" Saffron asked quietly.
"Awkward," Andrew replied. "But with time, I'm hoping it will get better."
"I feel bad she's hurting," Saffron said. "But I'm glad we're back together."
"You and me both," Andrew said. "And, you know, after you lose today, I'll be here to comfort you..."
Saffron snorted. "As if."
"Same confident Saffy," Andrew said leaning in and giving her a kiss. "I love you."
"I love you too," Saffron said. "Break a leg."
"You wish," Andrew said grinning at her before running across the pitch.
Saffron felt better as she headed back to her own team.
In the stands, Alexa and Gabe had just taken their seats. Alexa took a blanket from her bag. "Do you want to share?"
"Sure," Gabriel said, wrapping it around the both of them.
"This is nice," Alexa said grinning at him.
"More than nice," Gabriel said.
"I'm so glad you were able to come over for this," Alexa said leaning against him. "It means a lot to Saffy and you know how much it means to me."
"I'll do anything to make you happy, Lex," Gabriel kissed the side of her head. "You know that."
Alexa hadn't reclaimed all her memories but she was getting there. "I know," Alexa said happily.
He slid his arm around her, pulling her even closer.
"Afterwards, Mrs. Weasley is having a big party for RJ and Saffy at the Burrow," Alexa told him. "I'd really like it if you came with me."
"I'm there," Gabriel promised. He did have a test to study for, but he figured he could always use the time he gained back when he was home in California to read.
"Fantastic," Alexa said. "It should be a lot of fun."
"Sassy!" Noah Weasley screamed pointing down at the pitch. "Case! Look, there's Sassy!"
"HI SASSY!" Casey shouted.
Aidan tugged on Josh's hand. "Daddy! Can't see! I want to see Sassy!"
"All right buddy," Josh lifted his son up. "She's right down there." he pointed.
"Oooh!" Aidan exclaimed excitedly. "It's Sassy!"
A few seats down Chloe was also waving furiously. "HI SASSY! HI RJ!"
Brian picked her up. "Come here, munchkin. You want to sit on Daddy's shoulders so you can see better?"
"Yes Daddy!" Chloe said excitedly.
"Be careful with her," Drew cautioned.
"Nothing's going to happen," Brian said. "Got a firm grip."
Chloe patted Brian's head. "Good, Daddy!"
Drew had to laugh. "You got it, munchkin."
Frankie, Will and Hannah were sitting with them. The twins weren't at the match because they both had colds and Frankie didn't want them out in the cold.
"Do you really think they'll be okay, Mummy?" Hannah asked.
"They'll be fine," Frankie replied. "Your Grandma Abbie is watching them."
Hannah nodded. This match was so different from the first one she'd gone to a few years ago.
"How about I go and grab us all some hot chocolate before the match begins?" Will offered.
"Extra marshmallows, right Daddy?" Hannah asked.
"Extra, extra marshmallows," Will grinned. "And since you've been such a good girl, I might get you a biscuit or two."
"Yum!" Hannah said happily.
Frankie looked at her watch. Her sisters weren't here yet. "The match is starting any moment."
"I can't wait to see Saffy play," Hannah said.
"Me too," Frankie agreed. "We really need to win this one if we want to contend for the Cup."
"It's in the bag," Drew said with a grin. "You've got RJ AND Saffron now."
"Sassy!" Chloe clapped her hands together excitedly.
"That's right baby," Brian said.
A few seats away, Ethan was teasing his mother and older sister about the match. "I'd better not catch either of you covering your eyes..."
"We won't," Julie said defensively.
"I'm more worried about Mum," Ethan said cackling. "Do you remember that time we were watching Saffy at Hogwarts and Mum kept grabbing on to my shoulder and gasping every time Saffy did something. 'My baby! My baby'!"
"I was in pain too," Harry said. "I lost all feeling in my arm that day."
Hermione rolled her eyes. "It wasn't that bad, Harry!"
"Pins and needles in my hand for hours," Harry continued.
"You're being overly dramatic," Hermione said. "And pardon me for being concerned over the welfare of my daughter."
"You don't think I get worried?" Harry asked.
"I know you do," Hermione said. "But you don't worry about her when she flies. She's as much as a daredevil up there as you are."
"And me," Ethan chimed in.
"Let's see how you get if Kiera decides she wants to play," Hermione said.
"I'd let her," Ethan replied.
"Save your breath, Mum," Julie said. "Ethan and Daddy think Quidditch is the best game ever and they'd be thrilled if Kiera wanted to play."
"Damn right," Harry nodded.
"At least you have one person who shares your thoughts, Mum," Ethan pointed out. "You and Jules."
"Like mother like daughter," Hermione nodded.
Katie sighed. "You don't have to worry about me taking it up, Mum. I don't like the uniforms."
"Good to know, Katie," Julie said, patting her shoulder.
Jon, Allie, Caroline, Emma and Adam made it just in time along with Chiaki, Toshio and their twins. The startling line-ups were just being announced. The Puddlemere crowd booed every member of the Wimbourne team.
"And now your very own Puddlemere United," the announcer called out. "In his second year at Keeper, it's RJ Weasley!"
A roar went up from the crowd as RJ flew above the pitch, showing off a few moves on his broom.
"That's my boy!" Ron screamed.
"RJ!" Casey screamed. "OVER HERE!"
RJ flew over in the direction of his family and he gave his nieces and nephew a wave.
Noah and Aidan were so excited they nearly fell off their chairs.
Lizzy laughed. "Easy, boys."
The announcer shouted out the names of the other team members and saved Saffron for last. "And now, please give a warm welcome to Puddlemere's newest team member, Saffron Potter!"
Harry roared his approval as his daughter flew up onto the pitch.
"She hasn't even played a match yet and the whole crowd loves her," Daniel grumbled to one of the other reserves.
"She's great, mate," his team mate said. "You're just jealous because she took your spot."
"Shove off," Daniel glared at him.
"And in case you hadn't noticed, we lost two matches while you were Seeker," his teammate said. "She's bound to do better than you ever did."
"We'll see about that," Daniel grumbled.
"What are you going to do?" his friend asked.
"Don't worry about me," he snapped.
Daniel folded his arms and looked up at the sky as the match began.
Saffron took a few deep breaths as she positioned herself above all the other players. "This is it," she said to herself. "Don't muck it up."
"Good luck, Potter," the Wimbourne Seeker said. "You're going to need it. I haven't missed the Snitch at all this season."
"There's a first time for everything," Saffron replied pertly.
"May the best team win," he said before flying off in the other direction.
"We will!" she shouted after him.
Saffron looked over and saw her parents and hid a smile as her mother grabbed hold of her father's arm. Her mother wasn't going to change.
The chest containing the Quidditch balls was opened and the game officially began. Saffron remembered what the coach had said and she decided to keep an eye on the Snitch while distracting Wimbourne's Seeker as much as possible.
"Go Puddlemere!" Ethan shouted.
Andrew couldn't help but keep one eye on the game and one eye on his girlfriend.
He wanted to win the match, but he also wanted her to do well. She had wanted this for so long.
He was distracted as Natalia flew past him in pursuit of the Quaffle.
"Get your head in the match!" Natalia shouted at him.
Andrew was startled. Even though things were extremely distant and tense between them, she'd never spoken to him like that.
RJ expertly deflected two attempts from the Wimbourne players to score.
"GO SON!" Ron shouted. "GOOD PLAY!"
"Ronald, you just shouted in my ear," Luna said, but she was smiling.
"Sorry," Ron said sheepishly. "He just plays so well, Luna."
"I know," Luna said proudly. "He does and you taught him."
Ron stood up. "I did, didn't I?"
"Yes, you did," Luna said dreamily. "I remember watching you play in school. It made my heart skip a beat."
"And when you called the matches, that was the greatest," Ron said eagerly. "Especially when you talked about me."
"Weasley is my King," Luna sang.
"Hey we're trying to watch the game over here," Harry said.
"Shut it, Rabbit King," Ron countered.
"Jealous much?" Harry asked.
Adam toddled over to his grandfather before Ron could offer a retort.
"Gampa, watch with me?"
"I sure will, Adam," Ron picked him up.
"Hey, Gamma Lu," Adam waved at Luna.
"Hello darling," Luna kissed her grandson's cheek. "Are you having fun?"
Adam nodded. "But, Em won't share."
"She won't?" Luna asked.
"Em say she no share food," Adam pouted.
"Em never shares food," Ron said. "But we'll get you some biscuits, okay?"
"Kay," Adam said happily. "Love Gampa."
Ron hugged him. "I love you too, buddy."
"Did you see your Uncle RJ?" Luna asked her grandson. "He's doing so well!"
Adam nodded. "Want to play too!"
"It's in your blood," Ron said. "Your dad played at Hogwarts and so did your mum."
"Me too," Adam nodded.
"Look!" Ron exclaimed. "Someone's going to try to score on your uncle again..."
"No!" Adam shook his head vehemently.
RJ did an aerial on his broom and deflected the attempt.
"Go, RJ!" Ron shouted.
Saffron clapped a few times for RJ then resumed her search for the Snitch. It took awhile, but Puddlemere was finally able to take over the lead of the game and she could finally stop idling.
Unfortunately, the Wimbourne seeker decided to follow her wherever she flew.
"Get a life," she grumbled.
"You don't own the sky, Potter," the Wimbourne player said gleefully.
"Neither do you," Saffron snapped at him.
Saffron had to do something to lose him so she veered to the right and then veered back to the left. But, in doing so, she was nearly hit with a Quaffle that one of the Beaters had hit in her direction.
"Oh Merlin," Hermione buried her face in Harry's shoulder as Saffron spiralled towards the ground, only to pull herself up at the last minute.
"She's okay," Harry told his wife. "She's fine."
"I can't handle much more of this," Hermione said.
"It will all be over when the brat catches the Snitch, Mum," Ethan said confidently. "And she's going to do it."
"I just hope she does it soon," Hermione said, gripping Harry's hand tightly.
"She's doing great," Harry reassured her.
Andrew again looked up at his girlfriend. She seemed to be intent on finding the Snitch.
Saffron saw something in the distance and grinned. That Snitch was hers.
"Got it," she said triumphantly, turning on her broom and flattening herself for maximum speed.
Harry took Hermione's hands in his so she couldn't cover her eyes. "Keep your eyes open, sweetheart. You don't want to miss this."
"I don't know..." she began.
"Trust me," Harry said with a grin. "GO SAFFY!"
"YEAH BRAT!" Ethan screamed at the top of his lungs. "GET THE SNITCH!"
The crowd held a collective breath as they watched Saffron in fast pursuit of the Snitch. The Wimbourne seeker noticed what she was going after and took off at full speed after her.
"No way," RJ said to himself as he watched Saffron. "You'll never catch up with her now."
Saffron held on to her broom stick with one hand and reached out with her free hand for the Snitch.
"Come on," she whispered desperately.
The Wimbourne seeker was approaching fast. Saffron reached out and caught the Snitch.
"DAMN it!" she heard him curse and she laughed.
"The sky is mine," she said with a grin before turning back and flying towards the stadium.
"THAT'S MY GIRL!" Hermione shouted at the top of her lungs. "Harry! Did you see?"
"I sure did," Harry said proudly.
Nick gave Ethan a high five. "That was brilliant!"
"Sure was," Ethan replied. "I wish Mads didn't have to miss this!"
"She listened on the Wireless, right?" Julie asked.
Ethan nodded. "She had to work, and she took Kiera in with her."
"Let's go down to the pitch," Harry said. "And congratulate our girl."
Hermione nodded eagerly.
Down on the pitch, Saffy's team mates were congratulating her. "Come on, O'Neal," Scanlon shouted. "Get your sorry arse over here."
Daniel waved him off.
He watched in disgust as RJ Weasley lifted Saffron up on his shoulders.
She still held onto the Snitch, laughing as RJ tried to balance her.
"You'd better not drop me, Weasley," Saffron warned him.
"You'd kill me if I did," RJ retorted playfully.
"Excellent flying, Potter!" Scanlon shouted up at her. "Not bad at all for a girl!"
"Thanks, I think," Saffron replied with a grin.
The Wimbourne players watched the celebration. Natalia came up beside Andrew. "She---she played a great match."
"Yeah, she did." Andrew said absently.
"I'm sorry for snapping at you during the match," Natalia said quietly.
Andrew shrugged. "It's okay," he scuffed his foot along the grass.
"This hasn't been very easy on me," Natalia said. "And I probably haven't handled it very well. But, we are team mates and nothing should get in the way of that."
He nodded. "That's a good idea."
"We'll get them next time," Natalia said looking again at the celebrating Puddlemere team.
"Hopefully," Andrew answered, looking over at her.
Natalia left him to join the rest of their team.
Andrew decided to go over and congratulate RJ and Saffron on their team's win.
"Kirke, isn't it?" Daniel O'Neal asked him before he could reach Saffron and RJ.
"Yeah," Andrew said warily. He remembered O'Neal's behaviour towards Saffron on New Year's Eve.
"You think it's such a good idea for you to come over here?" Daniel asked him.
"I would think it's good sportsmanship," Andrew said tightly.
"You would, would you?" Daniel asked glaring at him.
"Why do you care?" Andrew asked irritably.
"Just looking out for my team mate," Daniel replied smoothly. "She and I have gotten quite close, you know."
"Sure you have," Andrew said disdainfully.
"You saw us on New Year's," Daniel said. "The way she was dancing with me...the way she kissed me..."
Andrew shoved past him.
"Was it something I said?" Daniel called after him.
"Stay away from Saffron," Andrew warned him.
"Or what?" Daniel asked boldly. "What are you going to do about it?"
"Don't ask," Andrew said darkly.
"Whatever, Kirke," Daniel said glaring at him.
Andrew turned his back and headed over to his best friend and girlfriend.
"Hey, Player of the Week," RJ said grinning at him. "I think you've lost your title..."
"To a worthy opponent," Andrew smiled at his girlfriend. "Way to go, Saf."
Saffron hugged him. "I can't believe this is real, Andrew."
He whirled her around. "You were fantastic."
Saffron laughed. "Thank you. You did really well, too!"
"Everyone was here to see you today," Andrew said.
"And she didn't let them down at all," RJ said proudly. "She was amazing!"
"Thanks, both of you," Saffron said.
"Here comes the crew," RJ said looking to where Noah, Aidan, Emma, Casey, Chloe and Hannah were running toward her.
Saffron knelt down and held her arms out. "Hey, you guys!"
"Sassy was GOOD!" Chloe squealed.
Saffron beamed at her. "Thank you, Chloe! Did you have fun?"
"Yes!" Chloe said. "Sat on Daddy!"
Brian grinned. "I have the bruises on my head to prove it. She kept hitting it every time you got near the Snitch, Saffy."
Saffron laughed. "Sorry Brian."
"No problem," Brian said grinning at her.
Ron carried Adam over to RJ. "Son, you were brilliant today."
"Thanks Dad," RJ said with a broad grin.
"Did you hear us shouting for you?" Luna asked him.
"I heard this guy," RJ teased his nephew.
Adam laughed. "Go Pudd-mere!"
RJ laughed, taking Adam from his father. "That's right Adam!"
"He was telling Ronald all about how he was going to play someday," Luna said fondly.
"That's a boy," RJ said. "I'll teach you everything, okay?"
Adam nodded happily. "You and Daddy and Gampa."
"That's a promise," RJ grinned.
Ethan, Harry and Hermione walked over to where Saffron and Andrew were talking.
"Sweetheart, you were fantastic!" Hermione exclaimed.
"Thanks Mum," Saffron said. "You watched?"
"Every moment," Hermione said. "Your father held my hands so I couldn't cover my eyes."
"Thanks Dad," Saffron said with a broad grin.
"Hey, Brat!" Ethan said tugging on her ponytail.
"Ethan!" Saffron hugged her brother tightly. "I'm so glad you're here! You too Jules!"
"Mads hates that she missed it," Ethan told her. "But she listened on the Wireless."
"I understand," Saffron nodded.
"Andrew," Ethan said shaking the younger man's hand. "You played a good match."
"Thanks," Andrew said.
"You'll be joining us at the Burrow, right?" Julie asked him.
"Wouldn't miss it," Andrew said, sliding his arm around Saffron.
"He's going to drown his sorrows," Saffron teased.
"I'll never live it down," Andrew joked.
Hermione loved seeing her daughter happy like this. She couldn't remember the last time she'd seen her this happy.
"We've definitely got cause to celebrate," Jon said.
"And eat," Emma chimed in.
Ron picked her up. "What's this I heard- my little Em isn't sharing her biscuits?"
"I shared," Emma said defensively.
"That's not what Adam told me," Ron said
"Oh," Emma said looking innocently at him.
"Em," Ron raised his eyebrow.
"I'm sorry," Emma said giving him a hug. "I'll share next time, Grandpa."
"That's my girl," Ron replied.
"What's Nana making us?" Emma asked him.
"Some of everything," Ron replied. "I can hardly wait."
"Me too," Emma said. "Aunt Mad's coming, right?"
"She'll be there sweetheart," Ron assured her. "With Kiera.
Emma grinned. "I love Kiera, Grandpa."
"She loves you too, baby." Ron told her.
"She's got pretty eyes," Emma said. "I could look at her forever and ever."
"That's sweet of you," Ron kissed her cheek.
"We should let RJ and Saffy get changed," Harry said. "So we can go celebrate."
"Good idea," Saffron replied. "It won't take long."
"Need some help changing?" Andrew whispered in her ear.
Saffron bit her lower lip. "Tempting," she said softly.
"Tonight," Andrew promised her. "We'll have a private celebration of our own."
"I like that idea," Saffron said.
"I'll meet you out here in a few minutes," Andrew said. "We can head over to the Burrow together."
"Sounds good," Saffron squeezed his hand.
"Bye, Sassy!" Casey waved. "See you at Nana's!"
"All right Case," Saffron waved back at her.
"Those kids love you," Alexa told her. "They were so excited every time they saw you!"
"They're all so sweet," Saffron replied.
"So are you," Gabriel teased. "When you want to be..."
"Shut it," Saffron replied. "Or you'll be sprouting feathers when you get back to University."
Gabriel held up his hands. "Okay, then..."
"I won't let her get you," Alexa teased her boyfriend.
Gabriel laughed. "Thanks for protecting me from the big, bad Saffron, Lex."
"Nice," Saffron deadpanned. "Next thing you know I'll be sprouting claws and facial hair."
"You do look like that when you wake up in the morning," Ethan said dryly.
"Look who's talking," Saffron retorted with a grin. "I always look a sight better than you."
"At least I'm not a brat," Ethan said tugging on her ponytail again.
"Golden Boy," Saffron hugged him.
"In all seriousness," Ethan said hugging her tightly. "I am dead proud of you, Saf."
"Thanks Ethan," Saffron replied. "Both our dreams came true, you know?"
"I know," Ethan said smiling at her.
"Speaking of which," Saffron said. "When do I get to baby-sit my niece?"
"It's not every day that the hottest Quidditch star in the country volunteers to baby-sit for us lowly peasants," Ethan said dramatically.
"So you'd better take advantage of it," Saffron said.
"Mads and I would love a night to ourselves," Ethan said. "You sure you don't mind?"
"Just let me know," Saffron replied.
The crowd had thinned out and Ethan and Saffron were alone on the pitch. "You know, I started counselling yesterday. I've been having a few nightmares of my own."
"You are?" she asked. "Really?"
Ethan nodded. "I dreamt that he had Kiera, Saffy. I couldn't get to her and he just took her away..."
"Oh Ethan," Saffron said softly. "That's horrible..."
"Yeah," Ethan said quietly. "And I've been really overprotective, you know? Making sure the house is warded, getting up in the middle of the night and checking things out..."
"That's understandable." Saffron nodded. "Those first few nights we were home, I hardly slept."
"And how are you doing now?" Ethan asked her.
"Better," she said. "Andrew... he's been a huge help, Ethan."
"He's a good bloke," Ethan said. "And it's obvious he loves you."
"I'm lucky," Saffron replied.
"Me too," Ethan said. "Mads has been incredible."
"Then I stand corrected," Saffron grinned at him. "WE are lucky."
"You know, you can talk to me anytime," Ethan said. "You and I are the only ones who truly know what it was like."
Saffron nodded. "Same goes for you, Ethan. I'm always there to listen."
Ethan gave her another hug. "I love you, brat."
"Love you too, Golden Boy," Saffron said. "I'd better go change."
"I'll see you at the Burrow," Ethan told her.
"Be there soon," Saffron waved, turning to head to her locker room.
Her male team mates were still celebrating in their locker room. "You don't even need to take a shower, O'Neal," Scanlon joked. "You didn't even get your uniform dirty."
"Shut the hell up," Daniel glared at him.
"Potter is just what this team needed," Scanlon said. "I like her."
"I told you," RJ said. "She's amazing."
"She got lucky," Daniel muttered kicking off his shoes.
"Luck had nothing to do with it," RJ said sharply. "She has skills that you haven't even seen yet. Saffron plays hard."
"As much as it pains me to say it," Scanlon said. "Weasley's right. The girl has skills. And with her, there's no way we're going to lose."
"Thanks for the vote of confidence," RJ said dryly.
Scanlon grinned. "I couldn't carry the team by myself."
"You couldn't carry a Snitch by yourself," RJ retorted playfully.
"Very funny," Scanlon said shaking his head. "Very funny, Weasley."
"What a joke," Daniel threw his gloves into his locker.
One bloody match and they all thought the sun rose and set around her.
"I can't wait to win the Cup for the second year in a row," RJ was saying enthusiastically. "We've got it in the bag now."
"It's one match, Weasley," Daniel grumbled.
RJ glared at him. "You knew from the start that you were just the reserve, O'Neal."
"I have more experience than she does," Daniel argued.
"Which is why you lost us two games," Scanlon said sarcastically.
Daniel looked like he was about to hit him when Murphy jumped between them. "Easy, lads. Come on. We won today. No reason to be in a strop."
RJ glared at Daniel but backed away.
Daniel grabbed a towel and headed for the showers. There had to be some way to get rid of Saffron Potter. Girls were meant to shag not to play Quidditch. There had to be some way to distract her and get her off the team.
"I hate that wanker," RJ said darkly once O'Neal was out of earshot.
"He's just sore about losing his spot on the team," Murphy said. "Take what he says and does with a grain of salt."
RJ nodded. "I will."
"We all love Saffy," Murphy said.
"Told you guys she was great," RJ replied. "I'm going to take a shower then get out of here. See you lot later."
A half hour later, Saffron was dressed and ready to go. She pulled on her cloak and grabbed her bag. Her stomach was a little unsettled but that was probably because she hadn't eaten anything that morning. If she knew Molly Weasley, there would be enough food at the party to feed a small army.
She wondered if RJ had waited for so she went and knocked on the men's locker room door.
No one answered and she was about to leave when the door swung open to reveal the last person she wanted to see---Daniel O'Neal.