Authors' note: This chapter finds a little mini-reunion of the Hogwarts gang when Saffron and Andrew invite Beth, Peter, Mimi, Jake, RJ and Audrey over for dinner.
Andrew made a goofy face at his daughter as he changed her. Ellie gave him a goofy smile in response. Andrew laughed. He and Saffron were having a few friends over for dinner and Saffron was downstairs cooking while he dressed Ellie.
"What do you think little one?" Andrew asked. "Do you want to wear your pink, yellow or green pyjamas?"
Ellie smiled at him again. "Pink it is," he said with a grin.
Andrew dressed her in the pyjamas and then picked her up and hugged her to him. "Want to get see Mummy and Puddles?"
He kissed the side of her soft little head and Ellie cooed in response.
Downstairs in the kitchen, Saffron was hurrying about trying to make sure everything was ready. It wasn't going to be a large get together, just Beth, Mimi, Jake, Peter, RJ and Audrey. Saffron had owled Alexa to see if she and Gabe could pop over for a bit, but they were both knee deep in studying for exams.
"Ooooh, careful baby," Saffron said when she almost tripped over her dog.
Puddles barked and looked eagerly up at her.
Saffron smiled. "You can have some leftovers tonight."
"You do realise RJ's coming?" Andrew asked as he came into the kitchen with Ellie. "He doesn't even know the meaning of the word leftovers."
"I'll set some aside for you then," Saffron told her dog.
"Good idea," Andrew grinned. "Someone wanted to see their mum..."
Saffron wiped her hands on a towel. "How is my gorgeous girl?" she asked, taking her daughter.
"In a good mood," Andrew said. "And she thinks I'm the funniest person on the planet."
Saffron grinned. "She definitely takes after you."
"Can I do anything to help?" Andrew offered.
"Would you mind setting the table?" Saffron asked.
"Of course not," Andrew replied.
"Thanks," Saffron stole a quick kiss from him.
"You know, we could always invite your old nemesis Mary Ellen," Andrew joked as he grabbed the plates from the cupboard. "Seeing as this is a bit of reunion..."
"Ugh," Saffron wrinkled her nose. "I wouldn't expose Ellie to that."
Andrew laughed. "Only kidding."
Saffron held Ellie in her arms and looked down at her daughter. "I hope you're up for company, love. Everyone's going to want to see you tonight."
Ellie stared at her with wide eyes.
Saffron kissed her on the forehead. "I love you so much, baby girl."
"Everything smells delicious, Saf," Andrew said admiringly.
"Thanks," Saffron said. "It's my mum's lasagne recipe."
Andrew grinned. "Brilliant."
"I think we're all ready," Saffron surveyed her meal.
There was a knock on the door and Saffron and Andrew grinned at each other.
"Your first guests, Ellie." Saffron said.
Saffron carried the baby with her and Andrew opened the door to reveal Jake and Mimi.
Mimi squealed as soon as she saw them. "LET ME HOLD HER!"
Jake put his hand to his ear. "Meems---warn a bloke before you do that!"
"She's just so cute!" Mimi gushed, ignoring her boyfriend.
"She is, isn't she?" Saffron asked. "Want to hold her?"
"Do you even need to ask?" Mimi shoved her cloak and bag at Andrew.
Andrew laughed and looked at Jake. "Alright, mate?'
"How's it going?" Jake asked with a grin.
"Great," Andrew replied. "Good to see you guys."
"We're so glad you could make it," Saffron said, leading them all into the sitting room.
Mimi looked adoringly at Ellie as she sat down. "You look just like your mum."
"Luckily her disposition seems to be more Andrew's," Saffron joked.
"Oh, Saffy," Mimi laughed, shaking her head. "I think she's got the best of both of you."
Saffron smiled at her daughter. "She's been an angel so far."
There was another knock on the door, but this time, their guests didn't wait to be welcomed inside. "Where's the food?" RJ asked with a grin as he and Audrey came around the corner.
"Hello to you too," Andrew said sarcastically.
Audrey hit him on the arm. "RJ---"
Saffron shook her head. "I don't have enough food for you."
"Saf, come on," RJ pleaded.
"Just kidding," she grinned at him.
"Never kid with a Weasley where food is concerned," RJ said.
"Can I get you lot anything to drink?" Andrew asked.
"A beer," RJ said.
"Me too," Jake replied.
"White wine, if you've got any," Audrey said. "Thanks Andrew."
"Let me see my goddaughter," RJ said to Mimi.
"In a minute," Mimi said. "I just got her."
"Why don't you go and help Andrew?" Audrey suggested.
"Trying to get me out of here?" RJ teased.
"Why would I want to do that?" Audrey asked. "Us girls need some girl time, right?"
"Come on mate," Jake said to RJ.
"Boys," Mimi said shaking her head. She looked at Ellie. "Ellie, you'll never, ever understand them."
Ellie cooed up at her, making Saffron and Audrey laugh.
"Your Aunt Beth and me can tell you loads about them," Mimi said.
"Where is Beth?" Saffron asked. "I thought you four were coming together."
"We were, but she had to stop off somewhere first," Mimi said, just as the doorbell chimed. "Speak of the devil..."
"Oh good," Saffron went to go open the door.
Beth engulfed her in a big hug. "Saffy!"
"Hi Beth!" Saffron exclaimed. "Hi Peter- we're glad you could make it."
"Where's the baby?" Beth asked.
"Mimi's got her," Saffron said. "Come on in."
Beth didn't even bother with her coat as she rushed into the sitting room.
"Let me see her!" Beth demanded.
Audrey laughed as Mimi shook her head. "I just got her Beth!" Mimi exclaimed.
"You're in line after RJ," Saffron said.
Beth pouted.
Andrew, RJ and Jake came back into the room. "My turn," RJ said to Mimi.
Mimi reluctantly handed Ellie over to him.
"Don't scare her now," Beth joked.
"Very funny," RJ said smiling at Ellie.
"Get used to seeing him around," Andrew said to his daughter.
Ellie promptly spit up on RJ.
Beth and Mimi both fell onto the sofa laughing as RJ looked horrified.
Audrey stifled a giggle. "RJ, it's okay...breathe."
"That's my girl," Saffron took her daughter back from RJ. "I'll go clean her up."
"What about me?" RJ grumbled.
"Use your wand," Andrew said with a grin.
Saffron carried Ellie into the kitchen. She grabbed a burp cloth and wiped her daughter's face. "It's okay, sweetheart."
Ellie's little face was red and she looked on the verge of tears.
Saffron patted her daughter's back comfortingly and started to hum a lullaby.
Andrew came into the nursery after a few minutes. "Is she okay?" he whispered.
Saffron nodded. "She's fine."
"Good," Andrew was relieved.
"How's RJ?" Saffron giggled, remembering the look on his face when Ellie had spit up on him.
"He's fine," Andrew said. "Drama Queen."
Saffron laughed. "Come on, then. Let's go back to the party, right Ellie?"
Ellie blinked and yawned.
Saffron kissed her forehead. "Let's go."
"Sorry about that," Saffron said. "She just had a bit of an upset tummy."
"If she could talk she'd tell you sorry," Andrew said, clapping RJ on the back.
"Good thing she's cute," RJ said.
Beth looked at Saffron. "Can I hold her now?"
"Sure," Saffron grinned, carefully passing her daughter over.
"Can we dress her up?" Beth asked eagerly.
"What?" Saffron asked.
"Do her hair and dress her up in cute outfits," Beth replied. "It would be so much fun!"
"She doesn't have any hair yet," RJ said.
"We could transfigure a wig," Beth said as if the answer should be obvious. "I think she'd look lovely with brown ringlets."
RJ groaned. "Okay, Serena Starr..."
Beth blushed. "Oh...maybe that isn't such a good idea then."
"Once she gets older we'll have lots of things for her to wear," Saffron said.
"How about we go and eat?" Andrew asked. "Saf's made her lasagne."
"Oh perfect," RJ said happily.
"I'm going to put Ellie down while we eat," Saffron said. "She's a little sleepy."
"Can we wake her up after dinner?" Beth pleaded, handing her back.
"Maybe," Saffron said.
"I'll be right back," Saffron promised, carrying Ellie into the nursery.
"She's not a doll, Beth," Mimi whispered.
"I didn't think she was," Beth hissed.
"Do her hair and dress her up?" Mimi asked.
"She's a little girl," Beth said. "I'm sure she'd like to play dress up."
Peter put his arm around his girlfriend. "Beth, she's a baby."
"I know that," she said. "But when she's older--"
"When she's older, I'm sure she'd love to play dress up," Peter said leading her into the kitchen.
Beth smiled. "I can't wait."
Saffron came back into the kitchen and smiled at them. "Ready to eat, are we?"
"Starved, Saf." RJ was already seated at the table.
"Andrew and I were really happy to get everyone together like this," Saffron said.
"We were all dying to come see the baby," Audrey said. "You don't have to twist our arms!"
Saffron grinned. "I didn't think I would."
Everyone sat down and Saffron brought the lasagne to the table. "RJ, let everyone else take a piece before you finish it off."
"Yeah, yeah," RJ waved his hand.
Andrew brought the garlic bread and the salad and set them down. "Everyone, please dig in."
"This looks fabulous," Mimi said. "I just wish Alexa could have been here, too."
"Me too," Saffron said wistfully. "But they've both got their final exams... and she'll be home in a few days."
"I can't wait to see her," Beth said.
"I bet she's got a tan," Mimi said.
"We should visit her," Beth said wistfully. "I hate rain...rain...snow...snow...rain...rain."
"It'll be Christmas soon, and then spring isn't long after that," Peter said.
"I can't wait," Saffron said sharing a look with Andrew.
"We were thinking of taking a holiday somewhere warm in January," Jake said, looking at Mimi.
"Were you now?" Saffron grinned at Mimi.
Mimi blushed. "We aren't sure where we're going to go just yet... maybe the south of Spain or something like that."
"What do your mum and stepfather have to say about that?" Saffron teased.
Mimi shot her a look. "Very funny, Saf."
"They love me and so does her dad," Jake said.
"What's not to love?" Mimi asked with a grin.
Saffron grabbed a piece of garlic bread. "I'm going to spend the next couple of weeks enjoying my daughter and my fiancée and getting back into shape for Quidditch and for my wedding."
"How much time do you get off to be with Ellie?" Audrey asked.
"Six months, technically," Saffron said. "But we'll see how things go. I can bring her with me if I have to."
"What about you, Andrew?" Beth asked. "Do you get leave too?"
"I could take one after Saffron's is over," Andrew nodded. "But we're playing it by ear."
"I'm so happy for the two of you," Audrey said.
"Do you ever hear from that horrid Natalia?" Beth asked. "I mean, I know she's a friend of yours, Audrey..."
Andrew and Audrey both turned red. "Um... she's on my team," Andrew murmured. "She's doing all right..."
"And she's still a really good friend," Audrey said quietly.
"I'm sorry..." Beth bit her lower lip. "Sometimes I speak before I think..."
"It's okay," Audrey reassured her. "Natalia's really a great person."
"She was actually the one who talked some sense into me," Saffron admitted. "The day of the charity Quidditch match."
"I'd forgotten about that," Beth said. "I'm sorry---"
"It's okay," Andrew assured her. "You're Saffron's friend; it's natural for you to want to stick up for her."
Beth smiled in relief.
RJ helped himself to a third serving of lasagne. "This is excellent, Saf."
Saffron beamed at him. "High praise from a Weasley. Thank you."
"What's for dessert?" he asked with his mouth full.
"It's a surprise," Saffron said shaking her head.
"Sounds intriguing," Peter said.
"So what's it like being a dad?" Jake asked. "You and Saffy getting any sleep?"
"Actually yes," Andrew replied. "Ellie's already been mostly sleeping during the night."
"She's just reeling you in," RJ said. "She's giving you a false sense of security."
"How would you know?" Audrey asked teasingly.
"Jon and Allie were like that with Caroline," RJ remembered. "I remember the two of them boasting about how Caroline was such a good baby---she never cried and she always slept like a log. Well, when she hit four weeks old...watch out. They were getting about two hours sleep a night between the two of them."
Andrew and Saffron exchanged a panicked look.
Audrey swatted at him. "Hey---I'm sure that Ellie's going to be an angel."
"Hopefully she'll continue to take after Andrew," Saffron said.
"And not be a drama queen like you," RJ said as he reached for another piece of bread.
"Shut it RJ," Saffron said.
"You cried your entire childhood," RJ recalled.
"Because I was around you so much," Saffron retorted.
"That's because you'd cry like a watering hose when you didn't get your way," RJ said.
"And it always worked," Saffron said smugly.
"And blaming everything on me," RJ said.
Saffron laughed. "And that always worked too!"
"Always worked for me, too," Andrew grinned. "Especially in school. McGonagall always believed you were the instigator."
"Usually I was," RJ admitted.
"The bad influence?" Audrey teased.
"You know it," RJ flirted.
"He was, wasn't he, Jake?" Andrew asked.
"Pretty bad," Jake agreed. "Of course, I didn't see much of you two until I started going out with Meems here..."
Mimi squeezed his hand.
"Hogwarts held a lot of fun times for us," Beth agreed. "Sometimes I still can't believe we aren't students anymore."
"I know," Mimi agreed. "In many ways it seems like just yesterday that we were there."
"And now you two have a kid," RJ said. "And will be getting married soon."
"Speaking of which," Beth said eagerly. "What's going on with the wedding plans?"
"Once Ellie's a few months old I'll get back to them," Saffron said. "Drew and Darla are holding everything for me. I don't have to worry about a venue because we're having it at the mansion, but we have to get going on everything else by March at the latest."
"You're going to be a beautiful bride," Beth gushed.
"Thanks Beth," Saffron said. "And you guys will be gorgeous bridesmaids. I can't wait for us all to go shopping for the dresses."
"I thought you were going to have us wear robes," Mimi said.
"Would you rather wear robes?" Saffron asked.
"I don't know," Mimi said thoughtfully. "I've never really thought about it..."
"I have," Beth said. "And I vote for dresses."
"We'll see what Alexa wants when she comes home," Saffron said. "And we can always try on some of both."
"And your nieces," Mimi pointed out.
"I do have a lot of bridesmaids," Saffron nodded.
The baby monitor picked up Ellie's cries.
"That's me," Saffron said. "Excuse me for a moment."
"And so it begins..." RJ said in a dramatic voice.
"Sod off," Saffron said before hurrying to the nursery.
Ellie was still crying when Saffron came into the room. "What is it, love?" Saffron asked.
Ellie's little face was red. "Ooooh..." Saffron said. "Maybe we should bring your Uncle RJ in here for some nappy changing."
Saffron carried the baby over to the changing table. "My best girl," Saffron said soothingly.
She quickly changed her daughter's nappy and cuddled the infant to her. Ellie's cries had subsided and she was looking up at Saffron.
Saffron smiled at her and sat down in the rocking chair. Ellie's eyes were still on hers. Tears welled up in Saffron's eyes as she looked at the perfect little baby in her arms.
"You are so amazing," Saffron whispered. "The most perfect thing I've ever had a part in."
Ellie cooed happily in Saffron's arms.
She laughed softly. "I know what you want. You want to go down and join the party."
Ellie looked up at Saffron and gave her a gummy smile.
Saffron stood up with the baby and then carried her downstairs.
"Someone wanted to be a part of the action," Saffron said, carrying her in. "Andrew, do you know where her bouncy chair is?"
"In the sitting room," Andrew said standing up. "I'll get it."
"Thanks," Saffron replied.
"She's okay?" Mimi asked.
"Just a dirty nappy," Saffron replied. "Should have had you come with me, RJ."
RJ grimaced. "No thanks."
"You'd better get used to it," Audrey nudged him.
"Something you want to tell us, Audrey?" Mimi asked.
"What?" Audrey asked. "Oh goodness no! I'm not pregnant! I just meant for babysitting purposes."
"We will definitely take you up on that someday," Saffron said.
"I didn't--" RJ began.
"You're her godfather," Audrey interjected.
"I know," RJ said. "But I just hope she doesn't spit up on me again."
"News flash," Saffron said. "That's what babies do, RJ."
RJ looked at his girlfriend then at Saffron. "I think I'm just going to keep eating," he said. "Not going to win this one."
"Good idea," Peter chimed in.
Andrew kissed Ellie's cheek as he buckled her into the seat. "That's my girl."
He set the chair down on the floor and bounced it gently with his foot. "That'll keep her happy while we eat." he said.
"She's the cutest baby," Mimi gushed.
"She is," Saffron said. "Of course, I am biased..."
"Your parents have to be over the moon," Beth said. "Especially yours, Andrew."
"Mum's already offered to watch her when Saf and I are both back at work," Andrew replied.
Saffron grinned. "She's really helping us out."
"It just seems so weird," Mimi said. "That you two have a kid..."
Andrew chuckled. "Good weird?"
"Very good weird," Mimi grinned. "It's just so... grown up, I guess."
"I know," Saffron said. "Some days, I wake up and think what's going on here? I have a house, a fiancé and a baby."
"Sometimes it can be a little overwhelming," Andrew agreed. "But I look at what I've got and it's worth it."
Saffron leaned over and gave him a kiss.
"Awwww..." Beth and Mimi gushed together.
Saffron blushed. "Okay...who is ready for dessert?"
"I'm ready for this great surprise," RJ leaned back as he took the last piece of garlic bread.
"Well," Saffron said. "Since we were eating Italian, I thought I would stick with that theme..."
"Gelato?" RJ asked.
Saffron shook her head. "No...Tiramisu."
"Brilliant!" RJ said happily.
"I had a feeling you'd be pleased," Saffron said. "Beth, can you help me?"
"Sure," Beth got up.
Saffron smiled. "So, how are things going at the boutique?"
"Just fine," Beth said. "We've picked up with everyone buying robes for Christmas gifts."
"Well," Saffron said. "I was talking to my Aunt Lavender the other day..."
"Oh?" Beth asked.
Saffron reached for the plates. "Yes and she needs an intern and she asked if I knew of anyone---"
Beth gaped at her. "WHAT?"
Saffron hid her smile. "I said I couldn't think of anyone who knew about fashion and would want to go back and forth from here to Los Angeles..."
"Saffy are you KIDDING me?" Beth asked.
Saffron laughed. "Beth, I wouldn't kid you about this. She'd like to meet with you next Tuesday when she's in town, if you think you could find the time, that is."
"I can find the time," Beth said quickly. "In fact I'm already there. With bells on. Or without bells on. Whatever you think she'd like."
Saffron gave her a hug. "You'll be great. Just be yourself and my Aunt Lavender will love you."
"She's always been nice to me when I met her before," Beth said. "Thanks Saffy. This really means a lot to me."
"Of course," Saffron smiled. "You deserve it."
Beth smiled gratefully as she carried a stack of dessert plates to the table.
"Everything okay?" Mimi asked her best friend.
"Perfect, actually." Beth told them what Saffron had done.
Mimi grinned. "Beth, this is your dream!"
"Totally my dream," Beth agreed.
"You should bring your design sketches, too," Saffron told her. "Aunt Lavender would love to see them."
"I will," Beth nodded.
RJ nudged Audrey. "Beth's like Lavender Version 2.0."
Audrey grinned.
"Did I sound like a Muggle just then?" RJ asked.
"Quite so," Audrey nodded. "I'm proud."
RJ chuckled. "I'm brushing up on my skills for Christmas with your family."
"I'll keep you occupied," Audrey promised. "Just in case."
RJ squeezed her hand. "Or just keep feeding me. That always shuts me up."
"In that case, give him the biggest piece of tiramisu," Andrew joked.
RJ glared at him. "Thanks mate."
Andrew just grinned at him as he continued to bounce Ellie in her seat.
"I don't know how you live with this guy," Saffron said to Audrey. "You must be on a mission from a higher power."
"Yes well..." Audrey smiled at him. "He's got loads of good qualities..."
"He can burp the alphabet?" Saffron asked.
"I'll try it right now," RJ retorted.
"Don't you dare!" Saffron exclaimed. "Or no more dessert..."
Audrey patted him on the leg. "RJ's fantastic. He's the best guy for me."
"In all seriousness," Saffron said. "He's been a great friend to me and I think of him like my second annoying brother."
"That's wonderful," RJ said sarcastically but he grinned.
Saffron grinned back at him. "And he is Ellie's godfather..."
"She'll get spoiled by me," RJ said.
"And Alexa too," Andrew said. "I swear, we're not going to need clothes for her for quite awhile with all the outfits she's bought."
"She told me she went overboard," Mimi nodded.
"Overboard is putting it mildly," Saffron said. "But, she's my best friend and she was with me when I found out..."
"She cares a lot about you," RJ said.
"She's like my sister," Saffron said getting a little teary just thinking about it. "I miss her. I miss her everyday and I can't wait until she's here for Christmas."
"It's only a few more days, sweetheart," Andrew told her.
"I know," Saffron said. She looked down at Ellie. "And I know she can't wait to see you again."
Ellie blinked as Andrew continued to bounce her.
"We'll all have to do something together!" Beth announced. "The Gryffindor girls back together again!"
"We'll plan something," Saffron promised. "Once she gets back and lets me know what her plans are while she's home."
Beth grinned. "It's going to be the best holiday ever!"
"Oh definitely," Andrew looked down at his daughter, who was happy and content in her bouncy chair.
Saffron looked over at Audrey. "You're more than welcome to join us, Audrey."
"That might be nice," Audrey nodded. "Thanks, Saffy."
Saffron smiled. "No problem. We'd love to have you."
"Maybe the rest of us will get a chance to hold Ellie," Audrey said jokingly. "If RJ doesn't get hold of her again."
"Very funny," RJ said.
"He dated Serena Starr," Saffron joked. "He's used to getting spit up on."
RJ groaned. "That was bad, Saf."
"But very true," Beth said scrunching up her nose. "Did you hear her latest song? Merlin's beard, I think Ellie could write better lyrics."
"She's gross," Saffron said. "I never liked her."
"Really?" Andrew asked dryly. "You hid it so well, too."
Saffron poked him. "Okay, Andy."
Andrew groaned. "Ugh, Saf."
Saffron looked at the clock. "I've got to feed Ellie."
"Why don't we all go in the sitting room then?" Mimi suggested. "While Saffy feeds the baby?"
"I won't be long," Saffron said. "I'll go in the nursery. You lot finish up dessert."
Saffron picked Ellie up from her seat.
The infant let out a cry and Saffron patted her back. "I know, love..."
"We'll clean things up in here," Audrey offered. She wanted to talk to RJ anyway.
"You don't have to," Andrew protested.
"We want to," RJ said. "Besides, I can sneak another helping of that lasagne."
Andrew shook his head. "I told Saf we wouldn't have to worry about leftovers..."
The other couples and Andrew left them alone. Audrey started gathering up the plates. "I've been doing a lot of thinking, RJ..."
"About what?" RJ looked over at her.
"I was thinking maybe we could find a new place to live," Audrey said after a moment.
"Why would you want to do that?" RJ asked.
"Well..." Audrey said. "I can't do magic. And where we live... I can't even bring my parents or Becca or anyone there because they don't know."
"Oh," RJ said quietly.
"It's not that I don't like where we live," Audrey explained. "Or that I want you to hide who you are..."
"I didn't think about that and how much it would hinder you," RJ admitted. "I'm sorry."
"Don't apologise," Audrey said. "I don't regret moving in with you at all. I just... I don't like having to be escorted in and out of that pub just to get home. I think we could find a place to live where you can still do your magic but it's not out in the open."
"We can definitely do that," RJ said. "Did you have any place in mind?"
"I looked in the paper at school and there are a few flats that I thought looked nice," Audrey said. "We can go look at them tomorrow, if you want."
"I'd like that," RJ said putting his arms around her.
Audrey smiled at him. "Really?"
"Of course," RJ said smiling down at her.
Audrey gave him a kiss. "Thank you RJ."
"Anything for you, you know that," RJ said hugging her to him.
Audrey wound her arms around him. "You're the best. I don't care what anyone else says."
RJ chuckled. "What has everyone been saying?"
"Just like at dinner," Audrey said. "Teasing you and all that..."
"Oh, those jokers always give me a hard time," RJ said shaking his head. "They're just jealous of my overall awesomeness."
Audrey laughed. "You of the supreme awesomeness."
"I like that," RJ said grinning at her.
Audrey gave him a kiss. "I love you, Weasley."
"I love you too, Aud," RJ said.
"Let's get all this cleaned up," Audrey said.
RJ grabbed the bread basket and popped a piece of the garlic bread into his mouth.
Audrey began to run water into the sink but RJ stopped her.
"What?" Audrey asked.
"I can take care of this with one move," RJ waved his wand.
Audrey laughed and held up her hands. "By all means..."
"How about we make some coffee," RJ suggested. "Or some tea."
"I'll do that while you work your magic," Audrey grinned.
"I bet you I'll finish first," RJ joked.
"I'm not going to take that bet," Audrey said nudging him playfully.
RJ nudged her back before muttering a cleaning spell to have the kitchen cleared up.
"What I wouldn't have given to be able to do that when I was a kid," Audrey said as she put the tea kettle on the stove.
"I'd like to say it came in handy, but we weren't allowed to use magic until we finished school at 17." RJ said.
"Ah," Audrey laughed. "So you did have to wash dishes and make your bed the Muggle way then."
"Pretty much," RJ admitted.
"RJ?" Audrey asked while she waited for the kettle. "Um...if we ever have children, would they be---would they be like you or me? Would they be magical, I mean?"
RJ looked at her. "I don't know, Aud." he said. "There are witches out there who have given birth to Muggles... they're called Squibs."
"Oh," Audrey said thoughtfully.
"We wouldn't know until the kid was eleven," RJ explained. "Or if they showed signs of magic beforehand."
"If she or he was a squib, you'd be okay with that?" Audrey asked.
"Of course I would be," RJ said. "It would be our kid. I'd love it regardless."
Audrey smiled. "Don't worry. I was just thinking about it is all."
"You had me nervous for a minute there earlier tonight," he told her.
Audrey laughed. "No bun in this oven, RJ." She patted her stomach.
"Not yet anyway," he said hugging her again. "We're in no rush, right?"
"Absolutely not," Audrey said leaning in for a kiss, but the kettle started to boil. "Tea's done."
"I've got it," RJ said.
In the nursery, Andrew was standing in the doorway watching as Saffron fed their daughter.
"She's almost done," Saffron said softly.
Andrew smiled. "She was pretty hungry, huh?"
"Very," Saffron nodded.
Andrew sat down beside her. "I love you, Saffy."
"I love you too," she smiled at him.
"So, what should we do tomorrow?" Andrew asked. "You still up for Christmas shopping?"
"Sure," Saffron nodded. "Ellie's first outing."
Andrew handed Saffron a burp cloth.
"Thanks," Saffron put it over her shoulder. "I'm already a pro at this."
"Yes, you are," Andrew said.
"And you're awfully good at changing nappies," Saffron hinted with a grin.
"I've already changed more than you," Andrew said. "I'm keeping a tally."
"Oh you are?" Saffron asked.
Andrew nodded. "You have some catching up to do, Miss Potter."
Saffron shook her head. "What about all the ones I've changed while you're at practise?"
"We're not talking about that," Andrew said waving his hand dismissively. "Those don't count."
"Why not?" Saffron asked.
"Because the only ones that count are the ones where we're both here," Andrew replied. "I mean, if a tree falls in the woods and no one's there to hear it..."
"Andrew!" she exclaimed.
"What?" Andrew asked.
"That's not fair." she replied. "I've changed just as many as you."
"Probably more," Andrew admitted.
"It's not a contest," she replied.
"No, it's not," Andrew agreed. "Besides, who would want to win it if it were?"
Saffron laughed. "Not me."
Andrew took the baby from Saffron. "Hey, baby girl. Let's bring you back downstairs to say good night to our crazy friends."
Saffron followed her fiancé into the sitting room.
"There's the lady of the hour," RJ said grinning at Ellie and making a goofy face.
Ellie grinned back at him.
"She likes me," RJ boasted.
"Of course she does," Saffron said. "You can hold her if you want- she just burped so she shouldn't have an upset tummy."
RJ nodded. "Okay."
Saffron smiled as RJ carefully took Ellie.
RJ sat down with the baby who cooed happily in his arms.
"You have the touch," Audrey sat next to him and gazed down at the infant.
"I have a lot of practise with being an uncle," RJ said as he held out his hand. Ellie wrapped her tiny hand around his finger.
Audrey gently stroked Ellie's soft head. "I can't get over how sweet she is."
"She's my daughter, isn't she?" Saffron asked with a grin.
"Then I'm surprised she's quiet," RJ joked.
"Hilarious, RJ," Saffron said rolling her eyes.
"All joking aside, she is really sweet," RJ said.
Saffron smiled. "She is."
"It's getting late," Beth said regretfully. "Pete and I have to go."
Saffron gave her friend a hug. "Good luck on your interview. You're going to be great."
"Thanks again, Saffy." Beth said. "This is really incredible of you."
Andrew shook Peter's hand. "See you, mate."
"Congratulations again," Peter said. "Thanks for having us over. Dinner was great."
"We should go too," Mimi said.
"You guys don't have to," Saffron protested.
"It's late," Mimi said giving Saffron a hug. "We had a great time."
"I'm glad you lot came," Saffron said. "I'll ring you once I talk to Lexie."
"Night, Audrey," Jake said. "RJ."
"It was nice seeing you both," Audrey smiled.
RJ waved. "Jake, I'll see you on the weekend for the pickup game."
"Definitely," Jake replied. "Looking forward to it."
"Ellie's first party," Andrew said after he'd seen the two couples out.
"And she's still ready for more, right Ellie?" RJ asked. Ellie's response was a yawn.
Audrey laughed. "You're putting her to sleep."
"We'll need you to come by every evening and right before her kips now," Andrew joked.
"Yeah right," RJ made another silly face at the baby.
Ellie gave him a sleepy smile in response.
"We shouldn't impose," Audrey nudged him. "They probably need to get her to bed."
"All right," RJ said, giving Ellie back to Andrew. "We'll leave you to it."
"Thanks for coming over," Saffron said. "Audrey, I'll be in touch."
Audrey grinned. "Thanks for inviting us."
"Anytime," Saffron gave her a hug.
RJ put his arm around his girlfriend. "We'll see you later."
Saffron grinned at him. "Maybe in a month or so we'll hit you up for babysitting."
"Do you pay well?" RJ asked.
"Free food," Saffron replied.
"We're available for nights and weekends," RJ said.
"Definitely," Audrey nodded. "Just let us know."
"Night," Saffron said as she and Andrew saw them out.
"I'll put her to bed," Andrew told Saffron.
Saffron nodded. "Thanks, Andrew."
She went into the sitting room and cleaned up the teacups and straightened the sofa cushions. It had been a nice night and she had enjoyed spending time with her friends. It had felt so normal.
She noticed Puddles lying down in the corner of the kitchen and she knelt down. "I was wondering where you were." She scratched behind his ears.
Puddles whined and looked up at her.
"Have you been feeling neglected?" Saffron asked. "I'm sorry, baby."
Puddles licked her hand.
Saffron picked him up and hugged him.
"You'll always be my baby," Saffron kissed the top of his head. "Come on, how about a treat?"
Puddles barked in response.
Saffron grinned. "Come on baby."
Andrew came back into the kitchen while Saffron was feeding Puddles a treat. "Someone's glad to have all your attention," he commented with a grin.
"I feel bad, I haven't had much time for him," Saffron said.
"I think he understands," Andrew said.
"I hope so," Saffron scratched behind the dog's ears.
Andrew kissed the top of head.
"Ellie go down okay?" Saffron asked. "She was sleepy..."
"Out like a light," Andrew said.
"Okay," Saffron stood up and stretched.
"It was a great party, Saffy," Andrew said.
"Thanks," Saffron said.
Andrew came up behind her and massaged her shoulders.
Saffron closed her eyes. "What time do you have practise tomorrow?"
"Eight," Andrew replied.
"We should get to bed then," Saffron turned around.
Andrew gave her a kiss. "Great idea."
Saffron leaned against him as they headed for their bedroom. Puddles bounded ahead of them and was sitting on the bed when they came into the room.
Saffron laughed. "Puddles, what are you doing?"
"He thinks he's sleeping there," Andrew said.
"Big, bad Andrew says no," Saffron said to her dog.
Puddles lifted his head and howled.
Andrew laughed. "Making me the bad guy."
"Just one night," Saffron said, taking her pyjamas out of the drawer.
"Tomorrow I'll be the good guy again, you mean?" Andrew asked.
"You're always the good guy," Saffron said. "For me."
Andrew grinned. "That's my girl."
Saffron went into the loo to brush her teeth and plait her hair so she wouldn't have to bother with it in the morning.
When she came back into the bedroom, Andrew was asleep with Puddles resting on his feet. Saffron laughed and shook her head. She decided to get one last peek at her daughter before joining her fiancé.
She crept down the corridor and into the nursery. Ellie was sleeping peacefully, the mobile above her bed playing a quiet tune.
Saffron smiled. "Sweet dreams, Ellie."
She went back into the bedroom and crawled into bed, snuggling up to Andrew.
"Night," Saffron whispered.
Andrew mumbled something unintelligible
Just before she drifted off to sleep, Saffron thought about all that she'd gone through to get here. Tonight, she'd had a normal night---with her closest friends and her daughter. She was finally in a good place.
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Portkey.org staff coerced begged blackmailed requested us to include this plug:
· PK ROR - NC-17 forum
After a loooong hiatus, we've reopened our NC-17 board called the ROR (Room of Requirement). There will be explicit content in this forum thus making it strictly for adults (over 18's) only! To get your ROR pass, please head over to the PK ROR forum.
· PK Spotlight
Keep your eye out for the Spotlight Project, with the first issue in June! The Spotlight project team would interview fellow HP shipmates, most of whom would be PK members but may also include guests. This is another attempt for all of us to get to know our fandom-mates better. You might be our next interviewee! For more info and if you're interested to join, please visit our PK Spotlight forum.
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PK Staff
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