Authors' note: We wanted to thank those of you who let us know about someone posting our story on ff.net. We appreciate you all looking out for us! We were able to spend the last week together and had the chance to meet the author of the Twilight series of books---Stephenie Meyer. We are still on a high from that! Heaven and I actually got the chance to watch Dirty Dancing together until a big storm interrupted it! And then we saw a bus advertising the Dirty Dancing musical. So, this universe will not leave us alone! We hope you enjoy the latest chapter!
"This is really nice of you, Saffy," Drew said as she helped set up Chloe's toys in the sitting room. Saffron had volunteered to babysit for them at the Minister's mansion while Brian and Drew went out to dinner.
Brian grinned. "I bet we're the only parents in the history of the world who've had a high-paid athlete babysit for them."
Saffron laughed. "Well, I still expect to get paid and my rates have gone up significantly."
"I'll take out a second job," Brian joked.
"You guys are doing me a favour," Saffron said. "I've been meaning to get some quality time with my favourite two and a half year old and now I've got her all to myself."
"Sassy and me!" Chloe bounced happily.
Drew knelt down in front of her daughter. "You promise you'll be really sweet and listen to whatever Sassy says, right? And when she tells you it's time for bed, it's time for bed."
Chloe nodded. "Yes!"
"We'll be fine," Saffron promised. "I've made some lasagne for us and I have some of Greta's chocolate chip biscuits...."
"She's not going to want to go home," Drew said kissing her daughter on the cheek. "I love you, munchkin."
"Love Mummy too," Chloe said.
"We shouldn't be too late," Brian promised.
"Whenever you get back," Saffron said. "Take your time."
"Bye, Daddy!" Chloe waved at him. "Hug!"
Brian swung his daughter into the air. "Anything for my munchkin."
Chloe giggled. "Daddy!"
"See you two later," Drew waved.
Saffron walked them to the door with Chloe. After another round of hugs, Brian and Drew were off.
"Okay," Saffron said grinning mischievously at the little girl. "What do we want to do first?"
"Um... play with doggy?" Chloe asked.
Saffron giggled. "Okay. Let's see if we can get him to come here. Puddles!"
"Come here doggy!" Chloe opened her arms.
Puddles scampered into the sitting room and barked.
Chloe clapped her hands together. "He came!"
"He's a good boy," Saffron rubbed her dog's ears.
"I want doggy, too," Chloe said frowning.
"You can pretend that Puddles is yours tonight," Saffron told her.
"Really?" Chloe asked.
"While you're here," Saffron nodded.
Chloe knelt down and put her arms around Puddles. "Love Doggy."
"He really loves it when you scratch behind his ears," Saffron told her.
"Kay," Chloe did as Saffron showed her and giggled when Puddles licked her hand.
Saffron laughed. "I told you. That gets him every time."
"Love Sassy too," Chloe looked up at her.
Saffron smiled at her. "I love you too, Chloe. Very much."
"Can we play dress up?" Chloe asked.
"Dress up?" Saffron pretended to think this over. "I don't know...I mean I do have all those clothes..."
"Please?" Chloe clapped her hands together.
"Okay," Saffron grinned. "Let's get be-you-ti-ful..."
"Yay!" Chloe said excitedly.
Saffron had expected that Chloe would want to play dress up so she'd already set her old trunk downstairs. "We can have a tea party when we're all gussied up."
"Tea party?" Chloe asked, reaching for her hand.
"Oh yes," Saffron said leading her over to the trunk. "A very posh tea party for Princess Chloe and her lady-in-waiting, Saffron Potter."
Chloe nodded. "I love being a princess!"
"I do too," Saffron said digging into the trunk and pulling out some of her old dresses. She'd played dress up with these when she was a girl. The doorbell rang and she looked at the little girl. "I'll be right back. You pick out some things, okay?"
"Okay," Chloe said, digging into the clothing.
Saffron hurried to the door. When she opened it, she was surprised to see the person that greeted her. "Andrew?"
"Hey," Andrew said with a grin.
"What are you doing here?" Saffron asked. "I told you I was babysitting..."
"I know," Andrew said. "But I thought I'd just stop by and see how you're doing."
Saffron grinned. "Well, you're just in time. Chloe and I were about to play dress-up."
Andrew raised an eyebrow. "Dress up?"
"Dress-up," Saffron grinned taking his hand and leading him to the sitting room.
"Hi!" Chloe said brightly.
"Hey, Chloe," Andrew said grinning at her. "What are you up to?"
"Princess," Chloe held up a dress
"Don't forget your crown," Saffron told her. "There should be a couple of them in there, Chloe."
"Ooooh," Chloe said happily.
"Girls love tiaras," Saffron said smiling as she watched Chloe.
Andrew slid an arm around her. "How are you?"
"I'm good," Saffron said leaning against him. "I'm sure RJ told you I went to practise."
Andrew nodded. "I'm proud of you, Saf."
"Life goes on, right?" Saffron asked.
"Right," Andrew kissed the side of her head.
"I made some lasagne," Saffron said. "If you'd like to stay..."
"Only if Chloe says so," Andrew replied.
"Chloe?" Saffron called out to her.
"What?" Chloe looked up, two tiaras in her hands.
"Would you mind if Andrew joined us for dinner?" Saffron asked her.
"Is he a prince?" Chloe asked.
Saffron grinned when she looked at her boyfriend. "I like to think so."
"He can stay," Chloe nodded.
Andrew grinned. "Thanks, Chloe."
"We need to get the princess dressed," Saffron knelt down.
Chloe nodded. "Can I wear the pink dress?"
"Of course you can," Saffron helped her change into it.
Chloe twirled around. "Pretty?"
"You are beautiful," Saffron said with a grin.
Chloe beamed as Saffron set the tiara on top of her head.
"Look at that," Andrew said. "The two most gorgeous girls in the world!"
Chloe giggled. "Prin-cess!"
"That's right," Saffron gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Shall we have tea, Your Highness?"
"Yes," Chloe answered excitedly.
"Your throne?" Andrew pulled out the chair.
"Oooh," Chloe said happily.
Saffron poured some tea into Chloe's little cup. She had made it earlier and sweetened it a lot with milk and sugar.
"Thank you," Chloe said politely.
"You're welcome, Your Highness," Saffron bowed her head.
"That's all," Chloe said waving her hand.
Saffron giggled and backed away to stand next to Andrew.
"Isn't she the sweetest?" Saffron whispered.
"She's really cute," Andrew replied softly.
"If I have children someday, I hope they're just like her," Saffron said thoughtfully.
"They'll be gorgeous and sweet, just like you," Andrew told her.
Saffron grinned. "Probably just as bratty, too, right?"
"You're not bratty," he nudged her.
"Tell that to RJ and Ethan," Saffron told him.
"They're biased," Andrew replied.
"They live to give me a hard time is what they are," Saffron said. She was glad that he'd stopped by. These last few days had been hard on her, but she'd made it through, due in large part to his support.
"They do it with love in their eyes," Andrew teased.
"Uh-huh," Saffron laughed. She looked at the little red haired girl who had just finished her tea. "I know this is a little unconventional for a tea party, but is the princess ready for her dinner?"
"Yes," Chloe nodded.
"Okay then," Saffron said. "I'll be right back. You stay here with Andrew, Chloe."
Chloe nodded. "Are you going to tell me a story?"
Andrew sat down across from her. "A story?"
Chloe nodded. "Cause I'm the princess!"
Andrew looked thoughtfully at the little girl who wore an expectant expression on her face. "Well, let's see. Once upon a time, there was this princess..."
"Her name was Chloe," the redhead nodded.
Andrew grinned. "Princess Chloe lived in a castle that was surrounded by a big moat and that was protected by a fire-breathing dragon..."
"Ooooh," Chloe breathed, her eyes wide.
"And the poor princess wanted to go outside and be in the fresh air and see unicorns," Andrew continued. "But she was stuck in the tallest tower atop the castle."
"Why?" Chloe asked.
"Um," Andrew said. "Her...her father wanted to keep her safe and protected so he put up the big moat and made the dragon protect the grounds."
"Daddy did THAT?" Chloe seemed impressed.
Andrew nodded. "Yes, he did. But, all Princess Chloe wanted was to go to the latest Princess Club meeting..."
Chloe giggled and clapped her hands.
"Well," Andrew said. "There were three princes who decided they were going to help save the princess and free her from the tower so she could see her friends. The first prince was Prince RJ," Andrew said. "And he came up to the castle with his sword intent on rescuing the princess..."
"Ooooh," Chloe nodded. "Who else?"
"The second prince was Prince Ronald," Andrew said. "Now, he was older, but he was also the princess' grandfather and he wanted to save the princess, too. He arrived with a bow and arrow..."
Chloe was captivated by the tale and didn't even notice Saffron come back in the room with a tray.
"And the third prince was Prince Andrew," Andrew said with a grin. "He was handsome, charming, and quite daring..."
"Did he win?" Chloe asked.
"Well, Prince RJ arrived first and he ran at the dragon, but the dragon bared his teeth and it scared Prince RJ so bad, he ran screaming back into the forest..."
Chloe laughed. "Scaredy cat!" Saffron laughed too as she set their plates down.
"Well, Prince Ronald went next," Andrew continued. "And he was determined he would be the one who would get through and save the princess. But, just as he made a run toward the moat, he heard the dinner bell ringing and he took off to get his dinner before Princess Emma ate it all..."
"Em!" Chloe nodded.
Andrew laughed. "Yes...so, the only hope for Princess Chloe was Prince Andrew..."
"What did he do?" Chloe asked, climbing into his lap.
"Well, he picked up the sword that RJ had dropped in his rush to run away," Andrew said. "And he braved the moat...and battled the dragon, and he gallantly rescued the grateful princess."
"Yay!" Chloe clapped her hands.
"And Princess Chloe gave Prince Andrew a big hug and thanked him for saving her," Andrew continued. "And she was able to make the meeting and see her princess friends. And they lived happily, ever after..."
"Good story!" Chloe said, giving him a hug.
Saffron grinned. "I'm impressed myself."
"One of my secret talents," Andrew joked.
"I hope you're both hungry," Saffron said. "This is my mum's recipe."
"If you made it, I'm sure it's fantastic," he assured her.
"Thank you," Saffron said. "Tuck in."
"Yummy," Chloe declared after one bite.
Saffron grinned at her. "I'm glad you like it."
"Sassy good cook," Chloe said, digging in with her little fork.
"Sassy is a great cook," Andrew agreed looking at his girlfriend. She was much more like herself tonight than she'd been in quite some time.
"I definitely inherited that from my dad," Saffron said with a grin.
"Where are your folks tonight?" Andrew asked.
"They went out for dinner," Saffron said.
"Like Mummy and Daddy," Chloe said.
"That's right smart girl," Saffron replied.
Chloe beamed at her. "Love Sassy."
"Love Chloe," Saffron returned.
"At the risk of sounding like RJ," Andrew said. "Do you mind if I have a second helping, Saf?"
"Have as much as you want," Saffron said. "I already put some aside for my parents."
"Can I get you ladies anything?" Andrew asked.
"I think the princess here could use a bit more juice," Saffron said.
"Yes, please," Chloe said politely.
"Coming right up, your highness," Andrew said.
Chloe giggled and watched him go. "Prince."
"He is," Saffron said fondly.
"Tells good stories, too," Chloe said before taking another bite of her lasagne.
"He sure does," Saffron agreed.
Chloe giggled. "You love him lots?"
"I do," Saffron said with a grin.
Chloe giggled. "I knew it!"
"You did, did you?" Saffron asked, tickling her.
Chloe giggled even harder. "Sassy!"
"Chloe!" Saffron laughed. "Chloe!"
Andrew stood in the doorway watching them. He couldn't help the smile that spread across his face as he looked at his girlfriend having a good time.
"No!" Chloe squealed as Saffron wiggled her fingers again.
"Here comes the tickle monster," Saffron cackled.
"No tickle monster!" Chloe laughed.
"You can't stop the tickle monster," Saffron laughed.
"Help!" Chloe said, spotting Andrew. "Prince!"
Andrew set his plate and Chloe's juice down on the table just before the little girl launched herself at him.
"Gotcha," Andrew swung her around.
"Do you really think he can stop the Tickle Monster?" Saffron asked.
"Yes," Chloe said.
"He's no match for me," Saffron said advancing toward them.
"No!!!" Chloe squealed, burying her face in Andrew's shoulder.
Andrew held Chloe protectively to him. "She's not going to get us, Chloe!"
"Save the princess!" Chloe said.
Saffron let out her best imitation of an evil laugh as she approached the two of them. "The only thing that can stop me is...chocolate chip biscuits...."
"Where?" Chloe peeked at her.
"Quick," Andrew said carrying her into the kitchen. "I saw them on the counter."
"There!" Chloe grabbed one.
Saffron took the biscuit from Chloe and bit into it. "Yummy..."
"Tickle monster gone?" Chloe asked.
"All gone," Saffron said with a grin. "Biscuits work every single time."
"Yay," Chloe said, reaching for her.
Saffron took her and gave her a hug. "I bet you'd like one of them, too, eh?"
"Two," Chloe said impishly.
"Since you've been such a big girl, I think that can be arranged," Saffron said grabbing the plate of biscuits with her free hand.
"And two for Prince," Chloe said.
"Absolutely," Saffron agreed. "Because he's been a very good boy, too."
"Thanks," Andrew said with a grin.
The three of them settled back down at the table where Chloe and Saffy ate biscuits and Andrew finished off his second helping of lasagne.
"That was good!" Chloe said, patting her little stomach.
"Yes, it was," Saffron said.
"I can clean up if you want to finish dress up," Andrew offered.
"You don't mind?" Saffron asked.
"Not at all," Andrew said standing up and gathering the plates. "I'll join you guys in a minute, okay?"
"We'll just be getting the princess into her royal pyjamas," Saffron said.
"Okay," Andrew laughed. "I'll leave you to it."
"Come on, your highness," Saffron bowed.
Chloe giggled and took Saffron's hand.
Saffron busied herself with getting Chloe into her pyjamas and cleaning up the ballroom.
Chloe stifled a yawn as she helped Saffron gather up her toys.
"Are you tired, Chloe?" Saffron asked. "You can sleep in my bed if you want."
Chloe shook her head. "No sleepy."
"Are you sure?" Saffron asked.
Chloe yawned. "Mmmhmm."
Saffron hid her smile. "Okay then."
Chloe grabbed her teddy bear and hugged him to her. "Bear sleepy."
"How about we go watch a movie and if your bear wants to kip, he can?" Saffron suggested.
Chloe thought this over. "Okay."
Saffron picked the little girl up. "Did you have fun tonight?"
Chloe nodded. "Bestest time."
"Same here," Saffron kissed her cheek.
Chloe rested her head on Saffron's shoulder.
Andrew met them in the hall. "What's up?"
"We were going to watch a movie," Saffron told him. "Chloe says she's not sleepy, but the bear is and he might not make it through the whole movie."
"I see," Andrew nodded. "What will we be watching?"
"Lion!" Chloe exclaimed.
"The Lion King?" Saffron asked. "I'll have to see if I still have that one."
"Kay," Chloe said as Saffron set her down on the sofa.
"We're in luck," Andrew pulled it off the shelf.
"Yay," Chloe said happily.
"Here's your royal blanket," Saffron said
Chloe giggled. "Thanks!"
Andrew put the movie on then sat down next to his girlfriend on the sofa.
Saffron reached for his hand. "Thank you."
"For what?" he asked.
"For being so sweet," Saffron whispered.
Andrew kissed the side of her head. "I'll do anything to keep that smile on your face."
Saffron rested her head on his shoulder. "Having you here helps more than anything."
Andrew held her closer. "Anytime you need me...."
"I know," Saffron said softly.
"Look," Andrew nudged her. "She's already out."
Saffron turned to see Chloe fast asleep clutching her teddy bear. "She didn't even make it through the 'Circle of Life'," Saffron whispered.
Andrew laughed. "Sometimes I don't either," he kidded.
Saffron laughed, too. "We can turn it off, if you want."
"Doesn't matter," Andrew said. "I'm not here to watch a movie."
Saffron turned to look at him. "Andrew..."
Andrew gave her a soft kiss.
"You've been amazing," Saffron said softly. "Better than I deserve."
"You deserve nothing but the best," Andrew told her.
"I love you," Saffron said as tears welled up in her eyes.
"I love you too, Saf." he said, touching her cheek.
"I want to move on more than anything," Saffron said.
"You are," he said. "Just by living your life."
"With you," Saffron whispered.
"I'm not going anywhere," Andrew assured her. "Ever."
Saffron rested her forehead on his. She believed him. They'd been tested so much these last few months. If they could make it through this, there was nothing they couldn't face together. "You are perfect, you know that?"
"I'm perfect for you," he answered with a grin.
Saffron laughed. "No one else would probably put up with me."
"They're missing out," Andrew leaned back on the sofa.
"Yeah, yeah," Saffron said cuddling up next to him. "So...has RJ told you that he wants to ask Audrey to move in with him?"
"Yeah," Andrew said. "And I was thinking I need to find a place of my own."
"I could help you find a place," Saffron offered.
"I was sort of hoping you'd want to find a place for us together," Andrew confessed.
Saffron lifted her head to look at him. "What?"
"Just a thought," Andrew said. "If you don't want to, I'd understand."
Saffron shook her head. "No, it's not that."
"Oh..." Andrew replied.
Saffron smiled. "I'd love to live with you."
"You would?" he asked with a grin. "Really?"
"Yes," Saffron replied grinning back at him.
Andrew pulled her into a tight hug.
"We just have to tell my dad," Saffron said laughing.
"That should be interesting," Andrew replied.
"He won't hurt you," Saffron said. "...badly."
"There's a confidence booster," Andrew said dryly.
"He'll be okay," Saffron said laughing. "He knows you make me happy."
"I'll always make you happy," Andrew promised.
"Puddles and me," Saffron said. "We're a package deal."
"I'm fine with that," Andrew gave her another kiss.
Saffron grinned. "So, have you given any thought to where you might want to live?"
"Not really sure yet," he replied.
"It'll be fun to look," Saffron said thoughtfully. "I want a big library."
"Of course," Andrew grinned.
"And I might let you have a room of your own," Saffron teased. "Or at least...a little area to call your own."
"You're too generous," Andrew said dryly.
Saffron giggled. "Yes, well..."
"You let me know when you want to get started and we'll look," Andrew tightened his arm around her.
"How about this weekend?" Saffron asked. "We could look in the papers and check out the listings. Maybe visit with some estate agents..."
"Sure," he agreed.
Saffron rested her head on his chest. "I can't imagine what it will be like to live somewhere else. I've lived here all of my life."
"Really?" he asked.
Saffron nodded. "I know some people think this place is so big and dark, but it's home to me. It always has been. I've always felt safe here."
"I always thought this place was nice," Andrew said thoughtfully.
Saffron grinned. "One of the reasons I love you."
Andrew gave her a gentle kiss.
Saffron smiled and thought about a night in the future where she and Andrew could be sitting on their own sofa, cuddled up together, while their own daughter or son slept.
"Sassy?" Chloe asked sleepily.
Saffron turned and looked down at Chloe. "Yes, munchkin?"
"I want mummy," Chloe said.
"Come here," Saffron said taking the little girl in her arms. "Your mummy will be here soon. Don't be scared."
"Just want to see her," Chloe rubbed at her eyes.
Saffron smiled and hugged her tightly. "I could ring her on the phone if you want to talk to her."
Chloe nodded.
"Andrew?" Saffron asked. "Could you get the phone for me?"
"Sure thing," Andrew patted her leg and got up.
"I was the same way when I was little," Saffron said softly. "When my mummy and daddy used to go out and they'd leave me with Julie or Greta."
"I miss her," Chloe said. "And Daddy."
Saffron took the phone from Andrew and dialed Drew's mobile number. "Drew? Hey ...no, no, she's okay. She just wants to talk to you. Here she is..."
"Hi Mummy," Chloe said. "I'm fine."
"Are you being good for Sassy?" Drew asked.
"Yes," Chloe said. "Watching lions."
"Daddy and I aren't going to be much longer, munchkin," Drew told her. "Do you want to talk to Daddy?"
"Yes," Chloe nodded.
"Munchkin!" Brian exclaimed.
"Hi Daddy!" Chloe's entire face brightened.
"How's my favourite girl doing?" Brian asked.
"Good," Chloe said.
"Your mummy and I are doing well, too," Brian told her. "And we're saving you a big piece of cake, okay?"
"Cake?" Chloe asked.
Brian laughed. "Unless you don't want it..."
"I love cake," Chloe told him.
"You do?" Brian pretended to be surprised.
"Chocolate," Chloe told him.
"Double Chocolate Fudge," Brian said. "So you be good for Sassy and we'll be home soon, okay?"
"Okay," Chloe said. "I love you Daddy."
"Love you too," Brian said.
Chloe gave the phone back to Saffron. "Cake."
"They're bringing you dessert, are they?" Saffron grinned.
Chloe nodded. "yummy."
"I think she's feeling better," Saffron said to Andrew.
"You're good with her," Andrew said.
Saffron held Chloe close. "I love spending time with Chloe and her cousins."
"Casey has fun," Chloe said.
"Casey and Chloe," Andrew said sitting back down beside Saffron. "You two are going to be little heartbreakers..."
"What's that mean?" Chloe asked.
"That means that all the boys are going to love you when you grow up," Saffron said. "And your daddy is going to need a beater's bat to chase all the boys away..."
"Oh," Chloe replied.
"I was a lot like you when I was little," Saffron told Chloe.
"You were?" Chloe asked
Saffron nodded. "But I think you're a whole lot cuter and sweeter than I was."
"Never," Andrew joked.
Chloe giggled. "Sassy sweet."
"That's right Chloe," Saffron smiled.
A half hour later, Chloe was asleep again and Andrew and Saffy were watching a cheesy movie on television.
Drew and Brian arrived just before midnight. "How'd she do?" Drew whispered to Saffron.
"She's fine," Saffron said. "Excited about her cake."
"Andrew," Brian said shaking the younger man's hand. "Good to see you."
"Hey Brian," Andrew greeted him. "Alright?"
"Great," Brian replied. "I hope Chloe wasn't too much for you two."
"Never," Saffron said. "I'll babysit for her anytime."
Brian knelt down and gently patted his sleeping daughter's arm. "Munchkin? Wake up, sweetheart."
"Daddy?" Chloe asked drowsily.
"Hey," Brian said softly. "Are you ready to go home?"
"Cake?" Chloe asked.
Brian laughed. "Your mummy's got it. We can have it when we get home. Okay?"
"Okay," Chloe wrapped her little arms around his neck.
Brian lifted her into his arms. "Can you thank Saffy for taking care of you?"
"Thank you Sassy," Chloe said. "I love you."
Saffy grinned and kissed the little girl's cheek. "I love you too, Chloe."
"We'll see you soon," Drew said. "Thanks again, Saffron."
"It was my pleasure," Saffron said giving Drew a hug. "Any time."
"Bye," Chloe said, her head on Brian's shoulder.
Saffron looked at Andrew when they were alone. "My parents will be back soon."
"I should probably go soon too," Andrew said. "I've got practise early."
"You're going to need it," Saffron joked.
"Very funny," Andrew circled his arms around her.
"I tease where I love, you know that," Saffron said grinning up at him.
"I do know that," Andrew nudged her neck with his nose.
Saffron giggled. "I love you, Andrew Kirke."
"I love you, Saffron Potter." he replied.
"Saffy?" Hermione's voice called out from the foyer.
"We're in here," Saffron called back.
Hermione and Harry came into the sitting room. "Oh," Hermione said. "I didn't realise you were here, Andrew."
"I stopped by to help Saffy with Chloe," Andrew explained. "Drew and Brian just picked her up."
"How was your dinner?" Saffron asked her parents.
"Lovely," Hermione nodded.
"You look gorgeous," Saffron said to her mother.
"Thanks baby," Hermione hugged her daughter.
"Mr. Potter," Andrew said nodding at her father.
"Hello Andrew," Harry replied. "How are you?"
Hermione laughed. "Andrew, you know you can call him 'Harry' by now. You're practically one of the family."
"She's right," Saffron leaned against her boyfriend.
"I don't know," Harry said. "I kind of like 'Mr. Potter'."
"Daddy," Saffron said.
"I'm only joking," Harry said with a grin.
Saffron wondered if they should tell her parents about their plans to move in together.
"Mum?" Saffron asked. "Dad? Do you remember what it was like when you first moved in together?"
"It was after we came back from Hillsdale," Hermione recalled.
"And Daddy found the cottage for you," Saffron said softly.
Harry smiled. "I'll never forget that."
"Me either," Hermione smiled at him. "It was a happy time. It felt so grown-up to get a place of our own and decorate it like we wanted..."
"That's what me and Andrew want to do," Saffron burst out.
Hermione looked at Saffron. "What?"
"We um... we want to move in together," Saffron didn't dare look at her father.
"RJ's thinking of asking his girlfriend to move in with him," Andrew said. "And I've wanted to get my own place for awhile now..."
"When did you decide this?" Harry asked.
"Just now," Saffron said, biting her lip.
"Not really spur-of-the moment," Andrew said hastily. "We don't even have a place yet."
"Hmm..." Harry replied.
"Daddy, you and mum did the same thing when you were our age," Saffron pointed out.
"I know," Harry replied.
"I can't imagine being here without you," Hermione said softly.
"I know," Saffron fidgeted. "But..."
"It will be awhile," Andrew tried to reassure them. "Like I said, we haven't even started to look for a place."
"I hope you'll take your time," Hermione said. "And find the right home."
"We will," Saffron promised. "And I hope you'll help us with the decorating."
Hermione hugged her youngest daughter to her. "I'm going to have empty nest without you here."
"I'll be around so much it'll be like I never left," Saffron said.
Hermione noticed that Harry hadn't said anything so she nudged him.
"You really want this?" Harry asked.
Saffron nodded.
"You know," Harry said looking at Andrew. "One of the hardest things I ever had to do was tell Robert Granger that Hermione and I were moving in together."
"What did he do?" Andrew asked nervously.
"He handled it well," Harry replied. "In that he didn't kill me..."
"That's good..." Andrew's voice trailed off.
"He even helped us move," Hermione said.
"You just keep my daughter happy," Harry said, looking directly at Andrew. "And we'll be fine."
"I will," Andrew promised.
"He makes me so, so happy," Saffron said.
"That's all we want," Harry said. "For you to be happy."
"Thanks Daddy," Saffron said softly.
"Thanks," Andrew said. "Mr.---Harry. Thank you, Harry."
Harry finally smiled and stuck his hand out.
Andrew shook his hand.
"We'll start checking the listings tomorrow," Hermione told her daughter.
Saffron smiled. "I'd like that."
"We'll find just the right place," Andrew agreed.
"With room for all my books," Saffron said happily.
Harry had to laugh. "Just like your mum."
Saffron laughed. "There are worst things to be than a bookworm."
"Quite so," Hermione nodded.
"I really should get going," Andrew said. "Early start tomorrow."
"Me too," Saffron said.
"Walk me out?" Andrew asked her.
"Of course," Saffron replied, taking his hand.
"Good night, Andrew," Hermione called after him.
"Good night," Andrew answered.
"I can't believe I blurted it out like that," Saffron whispered to him.
"I was kind of surprised too," Andrew told her.
"I don't know what came over me," Saffron said.
"You're unpredictable," Andrew teased.
Saffron laughed. "That's me."
Andrew kissed her hungrily.
Saffron was taken aback, but it didn't take her long to get into the moment. "Mmmm...."
"I love you," Andrew murmured.
"I love you too," Saffron said breathlessly.
"I'll ring you tomorrow after practise," Andrew tucked a lock of hair behind her ear.
"You'd better," Saffron said smiling at him.
He gave her another quick kiss.
"Night," Saffron said still in a daze from his first kiss. She walked back into the sitting room and smiled shyly at her mother.
"You're growing up too fast," Hermione said fondly.
Saffron laughed. "But I'll always be your baby, right?"
"Always," Hermione put an arm around her.
"Where's Daddy?" Saffron asked.
"He's in the kitchen," Hermione shook her head. "He ate like a pig at dinner, but is still hungry..."
Saffron laughed. "Sounds like Uncle Ron."
"He may as well be," Hermione replied.
"I think I'll go and tell him good night," Saffron said.
"I'll see you in the morning, love." Hermione said.
"Good night, Mum," Saffron said. She walked into the kitchen to see her father finishing off the biscuits she'd made. "Hey."
"Hi baby," Harry said.
"I wanted to tell you good night," Saffron said softly.
Harry turned to look at her.
"Is everything okay?" Saffron asked.
"You're just growing up too fast for my liking," Harry said. "And after everything you've gone through in the past months, it's just hard for me to let you go."
"Oh," Saffron said softly. "Daddy..."
"Your happiness just means more to me than anything," Harry told her.
Saffron hugged him. "I love him so much, Daddy. He makes me happier than I've ever been in my life."
"I'm glad for that," Harry kissed the top of her head.
"I just hope we're as happy as you and mum have been," Saffron said softly.
"I'm sure you will be," Harry assured her.
"I love you, Dad," Saffron said. "No matter where I live."
"I love you too baby," Harry hugged her tighter.
"Good night," Saffron said.
"I'll see you in the morning," Harry said.
Saffron smiled. "You realise Puddles is coming with me, don't you?"
"There's a relief," Harry joked.
"You're going to miss him," Saffron said grinning at him. "I know you will."
"Just a bit, maybe." Harry reached into the icebox for the leftover lasagne.
Saffron laughed. "You sure you haven't been possessed by Uncle Ron?"
"Merlin help the food in this house if I was," Harry quipped.
Saffron laughed. "Good night, Daddy."
"Night, baby." Harry answered.
Harry warmed up his plate and was about to take a bite when his wife came into the kitchen. "Harry James Potter..."
"What?" Harry asked innocently.
"You had a big dinner," Hermione reminded him. "Not to mention dessert and now you're eating lasagne? Do you have a tapeworm?"
"I can't resist this stuff," Harry said, stuffing a large forkful in his mouth.
Hermione shook her head. "What a night."
"I know," Harry swallowed his lasagne.
"It's just going to be you and me," Hermione commented.
"This house is going to be bigger than ever," Harry nodded.
Hermione laughed. "Too big."
"Too bad we can't get a smaller place again," Harry said.
"We can someday," Hermione said thoughtfully. "Once I step down."
"I thought you were going to rule forever," Harry teased.
"Well, I was thinking about the day when I can retire and spend all this time with my wonderful husband," Hermione said softly.
"Oh yeah?" Harry asked, pulling her to him.
"Oh yeah," Hermione said huskily.
"I like that idea," Harry said. "A lot..."
"Do you?" Hermione asked trailing her finger down his chest. "Because...I was thinking that if you were still hungry..."
He was, but no longer for food.
"Dessert is on the menu," Hermione said leaning in to kiss him.
"Would that dessert be you?" he asked.
"Maybe," Hermione said with a grin.
"I'll have a double order," Harry said with a saucy grin.
Hermione gave him a kiss. "I'll warn you that it's very, very decadent..."
"I like that," Harry said, nudging her ear.
"This reminds me of our first night in the cottage," Hermione said closing her eyes.
"Does it?" Harry asked lazily.
"How we couldn't wait for everyone to leave," Hermione said.
"And we practically had to push Ron out the door," Harry recalled. "Only for him to open his big mouth in front of your dad."
Hermione laughed at the memory. "Poor Dad didn't want to think about that part of our living together."
"No he didn't," Harry replied.
"That was some of the happiest times," Hermione said resting her forehead on his.
"They were good," Harry nodded. "But the best was when we got married and had Jules, Ethan and Saffy."
"Yes it was," Hermione agreed. "I'm so proud of them."
"Me too," Harry tightened his arms around her.
"Let's go upstairs," Hermione said smiling at him.
"And do what?" Harry played innocent.
"Hmmm," Hermione said touching his cheek. "If you take me upstairs, you'll find out..."
Harry picked his wife up easily.
Hermione laughed. "That never gets old."
"Nope," Harry said, carrying her to their bedroom.
"What time do you have to be in the office?" Hermione asked him as he set her down on the bed.
"Eight," Harry answered.
Hermione grinned wickedly at him as she grabbed his tie and pulled him down with her. "So, you'll have SOME time to recover then..."
"I don't care if I do," Harry said.
"Just what I like to hear," Hermione purred.
Harry pulled her to him and kissed her deeply.
"I love you, you know?" Hermione asked him, loosening his tie.
"I love you too," Harry smiled crookedly at her.
"And I'm very proud of how you handled things with Andrew and Saffy," Hermione said.
"I don't want to talk about that right now," Harry replied.
"Right," Hermione said smiling up at him.
"It's just a little too.... new..." Harry searched for the right word.
"For me too," Hermione said touching his cheek. "She's always been our baby."
"And grew up way too soon," Harry said.
"And has been through so much in such a small amount of time," Hermione said.
"Yeah," Harry said thoughtfully.
"You've been a great father to them, Harry," Hermione said softly. "They love you so much."
"I'd do anything for them," Harry replied.
"And you have," Hermione said giving him a kiss.
Harry rolled himself on top of her.
"Harry," Hermione whispered, as he kissed her neck.
"Mmmhmmm..." he murmured.
Hermione threw his tie to the floor and began working on the buttons his shirt.
Harry yanked at the straps on his wife's dress.
Hermione arched against him. "That's a new dress, you know."
"I'll fix it later," he said breathlessly.
Hermione smiled. "You're a little impatient..."
"For you?" Harry asked. "I always am."
"Me too," Hermione said pulling off his shirt. She and Harry had been together for so many years, but the sight of his sculpted chest still managed to make her breathless.
They quickly shed the rest of their clothes and slid under the covers naked.
"Harry," Hermione whispered. "Please..."
"You never did like to wait," Harry pushed inside her.
Hermione's breath caught in her throat. "Harry..."
Harry sucked in air through his teeth, unable to answer her.
Hermione wrapped her legs around him, eager to have more of him.
Harry buried his face in her shoulder, muffling his grunts of pleasure.
"Yes," Hermione breathed.
Harry's breath started coming more rapidly as he and Hermione moved together.
Hermione lifted her head off the pillow and kissed him.
Harry pushed into her one last time before his body collapsed on top of her.
Hermione held him to her. "That was..."
"You are amazing," Harry said. "Always have been."
Hermione smiled. "I learned everything I know from my husband."
"He's a smart bloke," Harry said with a grin.
"He is," Hermione laughed. "And handsome, too."
"Charming guy," Harry answered.
Hermione gave him a kiss. "I love you."
"I love you too, sweetheart," Harry said.
"Thank you for tonight," Hermione said. "It's been ages since we went out like that."
"We need to do it more often," Harry told her.
"Date night," Hermione said grinning at him.
Harry laughed. "Right."
"We should get some sleep," Hermione said.
"I suppose," Harry pushed off to her side.
"Unless, you're not tired," Hermione said softly.
"I'm sure a second wind will blow by," Harry said with a grin.
"You think so?" Hermione asked grinning back.
"I know so," Harry answered.
"I don't know," Hermione said doubtfully. "You know, we're not as young as we used to be..."
"Who says?" Harry asked.
"You disagree, then?" Hermione asked.
"I do," Harry said.
Hermione grinned mischievously at him. "Prove it."
Harry pulled her on top of him. "I will."
"You're so easy," Hermione grinned.
"What?" Harry asked in mock outrage.
Hermione laughed. "I always know just what to say to get you to do my bidding."
"You wish," Harry answered.
"I know," Hermione grinned.
"Good thing I love you," Harry looked up at her.
"It's a great thing that you love me," Hermione corrected.
"You're right," Harry kissed her neck.
That was the last thing either of them said for the rest of the night.
The next morning, Andrew Kirke awoke with a smile on his face and he knew why. He'd finally asked Saffron the question he'd wanted to ask her for ages and she'd said yes. The only thing that would have made it better was if she'd been able to come home with him last night.
But, he did have an early practise. He showered and changed and then headed into the kitchen where his flatmate was brooding.
"Good morning," Andrew said brightly.
"Says you," RJ muttered.
"What's wrong?" Andrew asked.
"My big date with Aud was a big bust," RJ grumbled. "Her bloody cousin...
"What's wrong with her cousin?" Andrew got himself some juice.
"How much time do you have?" RJ asked sarcastically.
Andrew sat down. "A little bit..."
RJ proceeded to tell Andrew all about how he'd met Audrey's cousin at her family's party and how she'd not so subtly hinted that she wouldn't mind getting to know him better.
"Wow," Andrew said. "She's kind of like Serena?"
"Only smarter," RJ said shaking his head. "And as if things couldn't get any worse, she's working at the pub with Aud."
"Ouch," Andrew winced.
"And it seems like everywhere we are, there she is," RJ said. "And I can't say anything to Audrey because she thinks Becca's great."
"Maybe you should get her to act out in front of Audrey," Andrew suggested.
RJ put his head in his hands. "I already tried. She's one step ahead of me, mate."
"How so?" Andrew asked
"Last night," RJ told him. "Audrey and I had plans to go out to dinner and to a movie. Well, Becca decides to weasel her way into an invite. Aud gets up to go to the loo and Becca starts playing with my foot under the table. I tried to play along but the moment Audrey comes back; she pulls that old sweet and innocent routine again."
"She really sounds like a piece of work," Andrew shook his head.
"You don't even know the half of it, Andrew," RJ said shaking his head. "I had it all planned out, you know? Last night, I was going to ask her and Becca ruined it."
"You still haven't asked her to move in?" Andrew asked.
RJ shook his head. "No, it's just never the right time."
Andrew finished his juice. "I asked Saffron last night if she wanted to find a place with me."
"What?" RJ asked.
"She wants to live with me," Andrew couldn't suppress his grin.
RJ momentarily forgot about his own problem. "Did you tell Uncle Harry?"
"She sort of blurted it out," Andrew said.
"I suppose it's a good sign that you're still breathing," RJ mused.
"Very," Andrew nodded.
"Congratulations," RJ said slapping him on the back.
"Thanks mate," Andrew said with a grin.
"It's about time," RJ said.
Andrew nodded. "I can't wait."
"They way my luck is going," RJ said. "The two of you can move in here with me."
"No thanks," Andrew teased.
"You and Saf already pick out a place then?" RJ asked while he fixed himself some breakfast.
"Not yet," Andrew shook his head.
"I'll have to warn her about what it's like to live with your ugly mug," RJ joked.
"Better than living with yours," Andrew returned with a grin.
"What are you two carrying on about?" Audrey asked from the doorway.
"Morning," RJ smiled for the first time that day.
"Want some juice, Aud?" Andrew offered.
"Sure," Audrey said. "Thanks."
She gave her boyfriend a kiss before she sat down. "You didn't wake me..."
"You looked too pretty when you were sleeping," RJ said. "And I wanted to let you rest."
Audrey beamed at him. "Great answer."
RJ gave her a kiss. "Big news, Aud. Andrew and Saffron are moving in together."
Audrey grinned. "That's great, Andrew!"
"Thanks," Andrew got her a glass of juice.
"Did you ask her or did she ask you?" Audrey asked.
"I asked her," Andrew said. "Been thinking about it for awhile."
"That is so romantic," Audrey gushed. "And I know you'll have fun picking out a place together."
"I hope so," Andrew smiled at her.
"You want something to eat?" RJ asked her.
"Eggs?" Audrey asked.
"Coming right up," RJ said standing up.
"You're too good to me," Audrey said, gazing at him dreamily.
"I'll see you two later," Andrew said. "I'm going to get out of here before you do something really disgusting."
"I'll come visit when you and Saf are like this," RJ said dryly.
Audrey laughed. "Bye, Andrew."
"See you two later," Andrew replied.
Audrey stood up and walked over to the counter. She poured herself another glass of juice. "That's really great about Andrew and Saffy, isn't it?"
"Sure is," RJ nodded.
"Last night was fun," Audrey said. "I know it was just going to be the two of us, but I couldn't say no to Becca."
"Yeah," RJ turned back to the eggs.
"Do you have any friends you could set her up with?" Audrey asked.
"I'm not sure," RJ said. "Most of my friends are wizards..."
"Oh," Audrey said nodding. "That's right. I was thinking of setting her up with Ross from my English Lit class. He's not really her type though..."
"I bet they'd be great together," RJ said, dumping her eggs onto a dish.
"I'll see if I can sort it out," Audrey said thoughtfully. "Maybe we could double?"
"Sure," RJ replied. "Sounds great."
"This looks delicious," Audrey said when he set the plate in front of her.
"Anytime you want something, I'll make it for you," RJ said as he sat down.
"Why are you being so sweet?" Audrey asked him.
"Cause I love you," RJ grinned at her.
"I love you too," Audrey said before taking a bite of her eggs. "Oh, RJ. This is soooo good!"
"You know..." RJ gulped. "You could have this every morning if you wanted..."
Audrey looked at him. "You're going to cook for me every morning?"
"I could if you lived here," RJ said in a rush.
"What was that?" Audrey asked. "I didn't catch that..."
"I'd um... I'd cook for you every morning if you..." RJ coughed. "If you lived here."
Audrey gulped. "RJ..."
"Sorry," RJ turned red.
Audrey reached for his hand. "There's no need to apologise. You---you want me to move in here with you?"
"Yeah," RJ said. "I've been thinking about it for awhile... and I was going to ask you last night but..."
"Becca was there," Audrey finished.
"Yeah," RJ said. "But... what do you think?"
"It's a big step," Audrey said thoughtfully.
"I know," RJ replied.
"And I'd want to pay my half of the expenses," Audrey said. "I don't want you to feel like you're taking care of me."
"You really think you'd want to move in here?" RJ asked.
Audrey nodded. "I think so."
RJ grinned widely.
Audrey grinned back at him. "And I'm going to hold you to that breakfast every day thing."
RJ laughed. "I won't complain."
Audrey put her arms around him. "I can't believe this is actually happening."
"Me too," RJ gave her a kiss. "I love you, Aud."
"I love you too," Audrey said softly.
"It's going to be great having you live here," RJ told her.
"I think so too," Audrey said. She looked serious for a moment. "Andrew...he's not moving in with Saffy just because of me, is he? I mean, this was his home before it was mine..."
"No," RJ shook his head. "He's been talking about it since they got back together."
"Good," Audrey said in relief.
"And we can turn Andrew's room into your own personal space," RJ said. "You could set up your desk and computer and books in there."
Audrey grinned at him. "No need to butter me up, Weasley. I already said yes."
RJ grinned. "Yes, you did. No backing out now."
"Never," Audrey gave him a kiss.
RJ was about to suggest that they take this back to the bedroom when he heard a knock on the door. "Be right back..."
"Sure..." Audrey got off his lap.
RJ quickly walked to the door and smiled when he looked through the peephole. "Mum."
Audrey smiled as she came into the hall. "We can tell her our big news."
RJ opened the door. "Mum, this is a nice surprise."
"Good morning," Luna smiled. "I was in the area so I thought I'd see if you were home."
"We were eating breakfast," Audrey said. "Why don't you join us?"
"I'd love to," Luna said, taking her cloak off.
RJ took it from her and hung it on the cloak rack. "How are things at the house? Dad said you were going to house two more children?"
Luna nodded. "They're coming next week. After this, I don't know if they'll need us anymore. Since Hermione's shown interest, the way the orphanages are run has come a long way."
Audrey poured Luna a glass of juice. "I think it's fantastic what you've done, Mrs. Weasley."
"Thank you," Luna replied. "Ron wasn't too keen on it in the beginning, but I think he'll miss having children around."
"He has all the grandkids to keep him busy," RJ said. "Chloe and Em alone..."
"Those two," Luna laughed. "They always come over with something for him- Emma brings cakes that she makes in her oven, and Chloe arrives with a bag of plastic spiders."
Audrey looked at Luna. "I thought Mr. Weasley was deathly afraid of spiders?"
"He is," RJ guffawed.
"Oh," Audrey laughed. "She likes to scare him, does she?"
"Nearly every time," Luna nodded. "Ron's not always scared, but he pretends to be because she gets such a kick out of it."
"Say what you will about Dad, but he always joins in with whatever they want," RJ said as he set about making eggs for his mother.
"Your dad's a great guy," Audrey replied.
"He'd do anything for his children and his grandchildren," Luna said dreamily.
Audrey smiled at RJ's mother. "What else are you up to today?"
"I'm going to the office later to edit some articles," Luna told her. "And I want to check in with Darla."
"How's she doing?" RJ asked.
"As well as can be expected," Luna said. "Hans---he did come home for a little while last week. The two of them were able to talk. She said he wants to make it work. I have my doubts though..."
"Jon, Josh and me will slaughter him," RJ said ominously.
"RJ," Luna warned.
"I mean it," RJ said. "He's a wanker if he lets Darla go."
"I think so too," Audrey said thoughtfully. "She's great and she's having his baby..."
"Exactly," RJ said.
"No matter what happens, she'll have us to support her," Luna said.
Audrey nodded. "Of course she will."
"Here you go, Mum," RJ said setting a plate down in front of her.
"These look wonderful," Luna said. "Thank you RJ."
"Only the best for you," RJ grinned.
Audrey laughed. "And he even keeps them warm for us."
Luna grinned. "He's a good boy. You should hang on to him, Audrey."
"I plan to," Audrey answered.
"Mum," RJ sat back. "I asked Aud to move in with me."
"You did?" Luna asked. "And what did she say?"
"Yes," the two of them said at the same time.
Luna smiled. "Well, that's fantastic news. I'm happy for you both."
"Thanks," RJ said with a broad grin.
"I still have to tell my parents, but I'm sure they won't mind," Audrey said. "They love RJ."
"Everyone loves me," RJ replied.
Luna looked fondly at her son. "You're the most like your father that's why."
"Lucky for me," RJ finished his juice.
"You don't have to worry about me letting anyone know about your family being magical, Mrs. Weasley," Audrey promised. "They'll never hear it from me."
"Of course they wouldn't," Luna said. "Once Muggles know of us and our capabilities though, they seem to be able to handle it quite well."
"I was wondering," Audrey said. "Not that I'm planning on this anytime soon, but if someday, RJ and I had children, would that child be magical? Or Muggle like me?"
"That's not something we'd know until the baby was born," Luna told her. "Some magical people have children that aren't magical in any way."
"Squibs," RJ told her.
"Squibs?" Audrey asked.
"Non-magic person born to magical parents," RJ explained.
"I see," Audrey nodded. "And I take it sometimes people who aren't magical at all have a child that can do magic?"
Luna nodded. "Saffron's mother is that way. Hermione's parents were both Muggles."
"Wow," Audrey said. "And now she's like your Prime Minister?"
"And one of the smartest people I've ever met," Luna replied. "There are a lot of people in our world though who don't like her because she's not what they'd call pure-blood."
"Wow," Audrey shook her head.
"I'll let you read my old History of Magic textbooks sometime," RJ said.
"That'd be great," Audrey said in relief.
"It's a lot to learn," Luna said. "But you'll catch on quickly, Audrey."
"I hope so," Audrey finished her eggs.
"How are your classes going?" Luna asked her.
"Great," Audrey said. "One more month and we're done for summer hols."
"And she's going to move in during Easter," RJ said.
"How lovely," Luna nodded. "Let us know if you'd like some help."
"I was going to ask Jon and Josh," RJ said.
"What does Andrew think of this?" Luna asked.
"He's over the moon," RJ said. "He and Saffy are moving in together actually. He asked her last night."
"Oh my!" Luna said in surprise.
"Uncle Harry already knows and he's fine with it apparently," RJ told her. "I mean, it's not like he could really say anything is it? He lived with Aunt Hermione before they were married. And from what Dad says they shagged like rabbits any chance they could get."
Luna nodded. "That's quite true."
"RJ," Audrey said blushing. "That's not very nice!"
"Not nice but true." RJ pointed out.
"Still..." Audrey said.
Luna glanced at her watch. "I've got to get going."
"Tell Darla I said hello," RJ said. "And if she needs me to rough up old Hans..."
"I will not tell her that," Luna said firmly.
"Just tell her we both said hello and that if she needs anything we'll be happy to help," Audrey said.
"That's more like it," Luna smiled at her.
"I should get ready too," Audrey said. "I have class in a half hour."
"And I have practise," RJ added.
"I'll see you both later," Luna said. She checked her watch. Drew and Darla should both be at the office.
"Bye Mum," RJ said. "Thanks for coming by."
"Bye," Luna said giving them both a hug.
"Have you got time for a shower?" RJ asked his girlfriend once his mother had left.
"A quick one," Audrey replied with a grin.
"I can make it quick," RJ teased.
"Can you?" Audrey giggled.
"Maybe," he said, putting his arms around her waist.
"Another benefit of living together," Audrey said.
"Yes," he nodded. "A definite benefit."
"Time's a wasting, Weasley," Audrey said putting her arms around his neck.
RJ picked her up. "Then by all means..."