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Isn't She Lovely - Stevie Wonder
Isn't she lovely
Isn't she wonderfull
Isn't she precious
Less than one minute old
I never thought through love we'd be
Making one as lovely as she
But isn't she lovely made from love
Isn't she pretty
Truly the angel's best
Boy, I'm so happy
We have been heaven blessed
I can't believe what God has done
Through us he's given life to one
But isn't she lovely made from love
"Dad?" Ethan asked opening up the icebox. "Do you think Mummy would like orange juice or pumpkin juice with breakfast?"
Harry smiled at his son who'd been his partner in crime this morning. They'd decided to serve Hermione breakfast in bed as a surprise. Hermione was in her last month of her pregnancy and had been on bed rest for the past few weeks. For someone who was used to being in the thick of things, bed rest wasn't something she willingly accepted.
"Orange juice," Harry answered as he loaded the plate with Hermione's favourite breakfast foods--French toast, bacon and fresh fruit.
"Okay," Ethan said, carefully pouring his mother a glass of juice. "I bet she's really surprised that we're doing this for her. I can't wait to see her face when we bring it in!"
"Let's hope it's her happy face," Harry said only half-joking. Hermione had been quite moody lately and everything he did or said seemed to be wrong. He knew it was because she was uncomfortable, but it didn't make it any easier.
"Right," Ethan agreed. "Was Mum like this when she had me?"
"She had the easiest time with you, if you can believe that," Harry answered.
"That's because I'm the easiest kid," Ethan grinned.
"You are pretty easy," Harry said reaching over and mussing Ethan's hair. "Okay, little man. Are you ready to take this upstairs with me?"
"Sure Dad," Ethan agreed, grabbing the smaller tray that held the juice and the fruit.
Harry and Ethan went upstairs and Harry hoped that this would raise his wife's spirits. He knocked on the door.
"It's us, Mummy," Ethan called out. "And we have something special for you!"
"You do?" Hermione tried to pull herself up into a sitting position but the large stomach made it almost impossible to move.
"Don't worry about getting up," Ethan said as he balanced the tray in one hand and opened the door with the other. "Surprise!"
Hermione couldn't help but smile as Harry and Ethan walked in with big grins on their faces, bearing some amazing smelling breakfast.
"We made all of this just for you," Ethan said proudly. "I cut up the fruit and dad made the French toast and the bacon. And I poured the juice, too!"
"It looks wonderful," Hermione said, finally pulling herself up against some pillows. "Thank you both. It's very sweet of you."
"How are you feeling this morning?" Harry asked sitting down beside her and pulling Ethan onto his lap.
"Okay," Hermione said as she took a sip of juice. "Just... swollen. I feel like I'm going to explode any minute."
"That sounds cool," Ethan said stealing a piece of bacon from Hermione's plate.
Harry laughed. "Not when you've got a baby in you son."
"Probably not," Ethan said sheepishly. "How many more days do we have left before my baby sister comes?"
"Four," Harry replied.
Hermione shifted uncomfortably as she bit into her French toast. "Harry this is amazing," she said.
"Thank you," Harry said, smiling at her.
"And my fruit?" Ethan asked. "Is it good too Mum?"
Hermione sliced into her pineapple slice with her fork and took a bite. "Delicious, sweetheart."
Ethan grinned with satisfaction.
"You didn't sleep too well last night," Harry said a few minutes later after Ethan had scampered out of the room to help Greta make some biscuits.
"No, I didn't," Hermione said grimacing as she tried to get comfortable.
Harry leaned over to rub her shoulders. "I wish I could do something to help."
"This breakfast was a nice start," Hermione said. "I'm sorry for being such a...well, we know I haven't been at my best. I'm just ready to have this baby."
"It's okay," Harry said, giving her a kiss on the cheek. "I think we're all ready."
"I think she's ready too," Hermione said rubbing her stomach.
"We're all so convinced it's a girl," Harry laughed, putting a hand on his wife's belly. "But what if it's another boy?"
"A mother knows," Hermione said with a laugh. "I was right before with Julie and Ethan. I think I'm going to be right this time. You'll have another little girl to spoil."
Harry grinned. "Wife knows best," he said.
"It only took you how many years to finally catch on to that?" Hermione asked teasingly.
"I just put up a fight for show," Harry explained. "Don't want Ethan thinking he has to let a woman walk all over him later on when he gets married."
Hermione laughed. "We wouldn't him getting the wrong idea."
"Never," Harry said, reaching for the empty trays. "Anything else I can get you?"
"No thanks," Hermione said. "I'll just sit here and read like I've done everyday for the past few weeks."
Harry gave her a sympathetic glance before leaving the bedroom to take the dishes back to the kitchen. He smiled upon entering- Ethan's face was nearly covered in chocolate smears. "Are you making biscuits here or just eating the mix?" he teased.
"He started out helping me," Greta said with a laugh. "And it sort of got out of hand..."
"I can see that," Harry laughed. "You're a mess Ethan."
Ethan reached for a dish towel and wiped his face.
"How is Hermione feeling today?" Greta asked.
"Okay," Harry replied. "She's getting antsy. She hates being cooped up in the house and doing nothing. She's mad at me because I won't let her sneak into the office either."
"I know it hasn't been easy on her," Greta said. "I wish there was something I could do."
"You've been fantastic," Harry assured her. "Hermione and I both are glad you came to work with us."
"So am I," Greta said smiling gratefully at him.
"Me too!" Ethan chimed in. "How many biscuits will this make, Greta?"
"Three dozen," Greta said. "Is that enough for you, little man?"
"Only if Uncle Ron doesn't drop by," Ethan made a face. "He eats almost all of them himself."
"We won't tell him," Harry said. "I think I'm going to check in with the ..."
"HARRY!" Hermione screamed from upstairs.
Harry instantly tore up to their bedroom. "What?" he asked, panicked. "What is it?"
"My water just broke," Hermione answered. "It's time..."
"What?" Harry exclaimed. "But you're not due for four days!"
"I think your daughter has plans to make an early appearance," Hermione said trying to get out of bed.
Harry was right by her side in a flash. "All right, let's get you downstairs. Ethan!" he hollered. "Come get your Mum's bag, we're going to the hospital!"
Ethan came running into the room followed closely by Greta.
"I'll send word to Julie and Nick," Greta said helpfully. "I'll tell them to meet you there."
"Thank you," Harry said gratefully as Hermione let out a painful moan. "All right sweetheart we'll be at the hospital in a few minutes."
Hermione nodded and squeezed his hand.
"Good, good." Harry coached as they made their way down the stairs.
"I don't like the baby making you hurt, Mum," Ethan said as he lugged Hermione's bag down behind them. "I'm going to have some words with her when she comes out."
Harry bit his lower lip to keep from laughing. "You did the same thing when you were born little man," he said as they finally reached the bottom of the staircase. "All babies are like that."
"Thank you though," Hermione managed a smile for her son. "You're a sweet boy."
"I just don't like seeing you in pain, Mummy," Ethan said.
"Neither do I," Hermione agreed.
"Ethan- you wait here with Greta and Nick and Julie can bring you by," Harry said, taking the bag.
Ethan opened his mouth to protest, but when he saw the serious look on his father's face, he knew he should listen and not make things worse for his mother. "Okay. Good luck, Mummy."
"We'll see you soon," Hermione gave him a hug. "And maybe by then you'll have your new little sister."
"I'm still going to talk to her about hurting you," Ethan said. "Can I call Grandma and Grandpa and tell them too?"
"Yes you definitely can ring them," Harry said as the group made their way towards the door. "Tell them if they're coming by that Julie should get them through The Leaky Cauldron."
"Okay," Ethan said running back toward the kitchen.
Hermione's grip on Harry's hand tightened as she experienced another contraction.
Harry winced as she squeezed his hand. "Ow... oww let's go okay?"
Nearly a half hour later, Hermione found herself in a private hospital room waiting for the healer.
"I'm sure she'll be here soon love," Harry said reassuringly to his wife.
"She damn well better be," Hermione snapped irritably as another contraction made her eyes water and she gripped Harry's hand again.
"I could go check again," Harry offered. Normally, neither he nor Hermione liked throwing their name around to get special treatment, but this was a special case.
"Fine," Hermione said, relaxing her grip as the pain finally eased. "Tell her the contractions are coming fifteen minutes apart and that they hurt like bloody hell."
"I will," Harry promised heading out of the room. He approached the front desk. "Excuse me? I was wondering if you could tell me where Healer O'Neal is. We've been waiting for nearly half an hour and my wife is in a great deal of pain."
"She's got about three other patients to see before she can get to your room," the receptionist said brusquely.
Harry couldn't believe he was about to do what he was about to do, but there was no way he was going back into that hospital room without a healer. He ran a hand through his hair, pushing his fringe back so his scar was visible. "I was wondering if there was anything you could do to speed her along."
The receptionist looked blankly up at him.
This was a new one for Harry. He smiled sheepishly at her. "I'm Harry Potter. It's nice to meet you..." he said holding out his hand as he saw the name plate on the desk. "...Gladys. That's a lovely name."
"Thank you," she said robotically. "If I see her I'll tell her to go in." the woman looked back at him, stern and unsmiling.
"You've been a great help," Harry said sarcastically. On his way back to Hermione's room, he bumped into someone which did nothing to improve his mood. "You should watch where you're going!"
"Excuse me," the healer said scowling at him. "Oh...it's you. Hello, Potter."
"Pansy Parkinson?" Harry asked in disbelief. "YOU are a healer?"
"Do you have a problem with that?" Pansy asked, her hand on her hip. "You think I can't make a living because I was in Slytherin?"
"No," Harry shot back. "I'm just surprised, but then again Malfoy's a healer, too..."
"Good for him," Pansy sniffed. "If you'll excuse me I have work to do- hey let me go!" she snapped as Harry grabbed her arm.
"I need you to see my wife," Harry said. "She's under Healer O'Neal's care, but she's backed up and Hermione's in a great deal of pain."
"She's not my patient," Pansy tried to pull from his grip. "And why would I want to help you out anyway?"
"Because you took an oath to help others when you became a healer?" Harry answered sarcastically. "Look, I'm not crazy about you helping me either. But, I'm desperate. Please?"
Something in his face must have looked desperate for she softened her look. "Fine," she said. "Which room are you in?"
"Room 317," Harry said breathing a sigh of relief. "Thank you."
Pansy marched ahead of him down the corridor and burst into the room.
Hermione was on the verge of having another contraction when her husband walked in. "Harry..." she whimpered.
He went to her side immediately. Brushing back a strand of hair from her face, he kissed her forehead. "It's okay, sweetheart. I'd like you to meet Healer Parkinson. She's going to check on you since Healer O'Neal is tied up."
"Good morning, Minister," Pansy said brightly. "Your husband and I went to school together."
"Oh you did?" Hermione tried to act interested but the pain was too much and she groaned. "Were you good friends?"
"Not exactly," Harry said. "We, um, were in different houses."
Hermione tried to formulate a reply but it came out as a groan. "It hurts so bad," she said. "This is the worst so far."
"How far apart are your contractions, Minister?" Pansy asked.
"Fifteen minutes," Hermione replied. "But this one came a bit sooner."
Pansy nodded and took out her wand, waving it over Hermione's belly while she recited a spell.
"This should help with the pain somewhat," Pansy said when she'd finished.
"Ohhh..." Hermione sighed in relief. "Thank you. Thank you so much. That feels so much better." the overbearing pain was now only a slight twinge in her stomach.
Pansy smiled. "I know how you feel. I have four of my own at home."
"You do?" Harry asked before he could stop himself.
Pansy shot him a look. "Yes, Gregory Goyle and I got married."
"You married Goyle?" Harry asked. "I'm sorry. I just didn't picture you ending up with him. To tell you the truth, I always thought you'd end up with Malfoy."
Pansy rolled her eyes. "That self centred git? I don't think so."
"You've just gone up a thousand percent in my eyes," Harry said smiling at her.
"I heard he was in Australia but I didn't know he was a healer," Pansy admitted.
"He married Ginny Weasley," Hermione said. "Their son Nick lives with our daughter Julie."
"You've got to be kidding me," Pansy said. When she saw neither Harry nor Hermione laughing, she just shook her head. "Who would have ever seen that coming."
"Nick's a good kid," Hermione said. "Thank goodness, nothing like either of his parents."
Pansy smiled. "Obviously. Well, it was nice meeting you, Minister. I'll just go and see if I can find Healer O'Neal for you."
"Thank you," Hermione said gratefully. "She seems nice," she told Harry once Pansy had left the room.
"Yeah," Harry said still taken aback that this was the same girl who he'd gone to school with all those years ago. "I guess people can change."
Hermione lay back and rested her head on the pillow. "That spell is brilliant. The pain is gone and I feel more comfortable as well."
"That's good to hear," Harry said sitting down. "I don't like seeing you hurting, Hermione."
"It'll pass," Hermione said. "And soon enough we'll have another baby to take care of."
"I wonder who she's going to look like?" Harry asked. "Julie's like you, but with my eyes. And Ethan is just like me."
"She might be a mix," Hermione said, caressing her stomach.
"I think she'll be as beautiful and smart as her mum and as sweet and charming as her dad," Harry said grinning at his wife.
"I suppose," Hermione reached for his hand. "I hope Greta's gotten a hold of Julie."
"I'm sure she has," Harry said. "Don't forget, Julie had to wait for your mum and dad, too. Otherwise, they'd never get here."
"That's true," Hermione said as another much smaller wave of pain came into her stomach.
"Excuse me," a familiar voice came from outside the door. "Yes, I know. But I am her cousin and if you don't let me in, I'll make you live to regret it...thank you!"
Lavender swung open the door. "I came as soon as I heard! Seamus would have come too, but he's stuck on the set! God, Hermione! You look awful!"
"Thanks Lav," Hermione said dryly but she was beaming. "Lav you look wonderful!"
Lavender waved her hand. "This old thing? I just threw it on..."
"It must be what all the top people wear to births," Harry teased.
"That's exactly it," Lavender smirked at Harry and gave her cousin a kiss on the cheek. "How long have you been here?"
"Almost an hour," Harry replied. "So what have you been up to in the last four days? I still can't believe you Apparated over to our house at three in the morning..."
"Hermione's on bed rest," Lavender said defensively. "It's not like I was waking her up or anything. Besides, I really needed her help."
"On deciding whether or not to wear blue or light blue to visit Seamus on the set?" Harry asked, rolling his eyes.
"That wasn't the only thing I asked her about," Lavender said sticking her tongue out at him.
"Sure it wasn't," Harry chuckled.
"You're just mad because I woke you up," Lavender said, sitting down on the edge of Hermione's bed. "Honestly, Hermione. I don't know how you put up with him!"
Hermione smiled at him. "He's very sweet Lav. He and Ethan made me breakfast in bed this morning."
"Ethan told me all about it on the phone," Lavender said. "He was very proud."
"I'm sure he was," Harry was grinning. "I had to make two batches of French toast because he ate the first one."
Lavender laughed. "That boy has a bottomless stomach."
"He must be related to Ron somehow," Harry joked.
"Mum," Julie said rushing into the room. "Everyone's outside waiting. How are you feeling?"
"Hello sweetheart," Hermione said. "I'm fine now that a healer came by and cast a spell to stop the pain."
"Good," Julie said hugging her father and Lavender. "Ethan was telling me how he was going to tell the baby a thing or two about hurting you."
Hermione laughed. "He is such a character. Just like his father."
"I hope that's a good thing," Harry said.
"Of course it is Dad," Julie laughed. "Grandma and Grandpa are out there, want me to send them in?"
Hermione nodded and watched as her daughter and cousin left the room.
"Hermione!" Elinore cried upon entering the room. "You're going to have another baby!" she burst into tears, much to Robert's amusement.
"Ellie," Robert said shaking his head. "Forgive her, Hermione."
"It's okay Dad," Hermione was smiling. "I'm going to be the same way when Julie has her first child."
"She'll be worse," Harry said. "Come to think of it, I probably will be, too."
Robert laughed at that. "Do you know how much longer it'll be yet?" he asked his daughter.
"Not soon enough," Hermione replied as another contraction hit her. "Ohhhhhhh...."
Harry grabbed her hand and let her squeeze it.
Elinore smiled. "At least she's not calling you every name in the book this time, eh Harry?"
"I didn't even know my sweet little girl could curse like that," Robert said laughing too.
"That's because you never had a baby Dad." Hermione replied, wincing a bit as the pain grew a bit more intense.
"They're coming closer now, aren't they?" Harry asked her. "Where the hell is Healer O'Neal?"
"Better get here soon,: Hermione said.
"She was called away unexpectantly," Pansy said coming back into the room. "I think you're stuck with me."
Harry wasn't sure how he felt about this. "Are you sure she can't come back?" he asked.
"Potter," Pansy said. "Get over yourself. Just because you and I didn't get along in school, doesn't mean I'm not capable enough to deliver your baby. If it makes you feel any better, you won't have to tell anyone that Pansy Parkinson, evil Slytherin, helped you out. Okay?"
Harry looked properly shamed. "Sorry Pansy," he said. "And I'm not ashamed of it okay?"
"It could be worse," Pansy deadpanned. "Malfoy could be the healer delivering the baby."
"That's true," Harry shuddered.
"Okay then," Pansy said walking over to Hermione. "How's the pain?"
"Getting worse again," Hermione replied.
Pansy pulled a sympathetic face. "That spell I performed earlier only alleviates the pain for a short period of time. We can do it once more, but you should probably wait until the contractions are closer together."
"Okay," Hermione replied. "How much longer do you think this will last?"
"I can't really say," Pansy said patting Hermione's arm. "We'll just keep an eye on you and I'm sure Harry will do whatever he can to help you through this."
"Of course," Harry said squeezing Hermione's hand.
"Okay," Hermione replied. "I hope it's soon. I don't know how much more of this I can take."
"It's going to be okay, Hermione," Harry reassured her. "You've done this twice before."
"I know but I don't remember it hurting this badly," Hermione said, beads of sweat forming on her forehead.
"Isn't there anything else you can do?" Harry pleaded to Pansy.
"To speed it up?" Pansy shook her head. "You're not fully dilated yet."
Harry took a towel from the bedside table and dabbed Hermione's forehead with it. "I'm going to be right here with you, Hermione. I'm not going to leave your side."
Hermione smiled at him. "Thank you love," she said.
"We should probably go back out and wait with the others," Robert said tugging at Elinore's arm. "Let's let them have a few minutes, Ellie."
"Right," Elinore smiled at her daughter. "Let us know if you need anything sweetheart."
Once they were alone again, Harry sat down on the edge of her bed. "You're doing great, sweetheart. You really are."
"I'm glad one of us thinks so," Hermione said. "Can I have some water?"
"Sure," Harry said pouring her a glass from the pitcher by the bed.
"Thank you," Hermione drank it thirstily.
He couldn't imagine what this was like for her. If there was something he could do to transfer her pain to himself, he'd do it willingly.
They sat in silence together until a few minutes later when she tensed up again. "In my opinion, this baby is ready to come out," she said, shifting a little.
"She's stubborn like her mum," Harry said softly.
Hermione snorted. "That's not what I need to hear right now."
"Sorry," Harry said yawning. He was beginning to regret the decision to get up early to make the breakfast for Hermione.
"No, I'm sorry," she replied. "I'm just so damned uncomfortable."
"It's okay," Harry said. He wanted to do something to take her mind off of the pain. "So we never talked about names, Mrs. Potter. Have any ideas?"
"I thought we did," Hermione said as the contraction finally passed.
"You shot down every name I came up with when I was convinced the baby was going to be a boy," Harry reminded her.
"Oh right," Hermione smiled. "When you suggested the name Algernon."
"I wasn't being serious," Harry said defensively. "I was just throwing out a couple of suggestions."
"I'm sure you were," Hermione managed a chuckle before she was seized with pain again. "Oooooh," she said, squeezing her eyes shut.
"Whatever her name is, I think she's ready to come out," Harry said wiping Hermione's brow.
"I agree," Hermione snapped. "But I said that earlier and no one believed me."
Ethan opened the door and he and Julie came inside. "Haven't you had the baby yet, Mum?"
"No sweetheart," Hermione said, nearly out of breath with the latest contraction. "She's almost on here though."
Ethan pushed past his father and leaned over the bed so he was looking right at Hermione's stomach. "Now you listen to me, sister. You better stop hurting my mum or I'm going to..."
"Ethan," Harry was almost laughing too hard. "The baby can't help it. This is how all births are. It's going to hurt Mum for just a little while before she comes out."
"Just a little while?" Hermione asked raising an eyebrow. "I'm so glad you think this is easy, Harry."
"I never said that," Harry replied quickly. "I never said it was easy. And you've only been in labour a few hours. With Jules here it was sixteen hours."
"And you missed most of it," Hermione said crossly.
Harry smiled sheepishly. "I'm sorry?"
"And you let Dad have it when he finally arrived, didn't you, Mum?" Julie asked.
"More than you know sweetheart," Hermione replied, gripping Harry's hand.
"Those contractions are coming closer together," Harry said wincing at Hermione's vice like hold on his hand. "Perhaps it would be okay to get Pansy to do that spell again?"
"That sounds like a good idea," Hermione replied through clenched teeth.
"I'll go and get her," Harry said. "Will you two stay with your Mum until I get back?"
"Sure Dad," Ethan agreed and Julie nodded. "Mum what do you need? Do you want to squeeze my hand?" he asked.
"That's really sweet of you, Ethan," Hermione replied smiling at him. "But I don't want to break your little hand."
"Okay," Ethan said.
"Was this what it was like when Chiaki was born?" Julie asked, trying to take her mother's mind off the pain. "Everyone sitting outside waiting?"
"Pretty much," Hermione said, remembering that night. "We all camped out in the waiting room. Ron showed up with loads of food that his mum made---he was still living with her at the time. Cho was afraid that Seamus was going to try and film the birth."
Julie laughed. "I can see that," she said, reaching for her mother's hand. "You can squeeze mine, it's okay."
"Thanks, Julie," Hermione said. It suddenly hit her what was happening. Hermione's lower lip began to tremble and suddenly she was crying. "I can't believe I wanted to do this again...."
"Mum it's okay," Julie said. "I saw how excited you and Dad have been, and how excited you were when you found out."
Ethan stared at his mother, alarmed. "Mummy," he began. "If you don't want to have the baby now it's okay." he hugged her as best he could. "I don't like it when you cry."
Her children's concern only made Hermione cry even harder as she hugged Ethan back.
Julie saw that her brother was scared and she smiled reassuringly at him. "It'll be okay, Ethan." she said. "Right Mum?" she stroked Hermione's hair back off her sweaty forehead and reached for the towel her father had been using.
"I'm really sorry, Ethan," Hermione said softly. "Mummy's a bit emotional now. But I'll be okay once the baby's here. I promise."
"Really?" He seemed unconvinced as he looked back at her doubtfully.
"Yes," Hermione said, ruffling his hair. "Do you know what would make me feel much better?"
"What?" Ethan asked.
"The cafeteria here has some really delicious blueberry muffins," Hermione said. "Would you go and get me one?"
"Okay!" Ethan said eagerly. "I'll ask Jon if he wants to go with me."
"Thanks, sweetie," Hermione said as Ethan left the room. "I'm sorry for breaking down in front of you kids, Julie."
"It's okay Mum," Julie said. "It's totally understandable." she grinned. "I suppose I'll get like this someday."
"Well, I'll let you squeeze my hand and break down in front of me if you do," Hermione said smiling at her daughter. "I'm really glad you're here."
"I am too," Julie agreed.
"How many people are out there actually?" Hermione asked trying to get comfortable again.
"Everyone," Julie said. "I even think that some of Uncle Ron's brothers are here with their wives and children," she teased.
"St. Mungos is probably going to throw everyone out," Hermione said with a laugh. "That's really nice that everyone came though. I can't imagine it can be all that much fun to wait like that."
"Probably not, but I can't wait for this baby," Julie said. "As long as Dad doesn't get his way and name it Algernon."
"Algernon would be a bizarre name for a girl, don't you think?" Hermione asked.
"For a boy or girl," Julie agreed, laughing.
"Try and tell your father that," Hermione said laughing.
"Tell me what?" Harry asked coming back into the room with Pansy in tow.
"That this baby is ready to pop out," Hermione said.
"How far apart are your contractions?" Pansy asked.
"A few minutes at this point.," Hermione replied. "About four or five since the last."
"Do you think you could do that spell now?" Harry asked Pansy.
"I certainly can," Pansy replied. "The next time though, it will most likely mean you're ready to give birth."
"That sounds like music to my ears," Hermione said gratefully.
While Pansy tended to Hermione, Julie pulled her father off to the side. "Do you think it would be okay if I stayed in here, too? I'd really like to be here, Dad."
"I don't mind if your Mum doesn't," Harry squeezed her arm comfortingly. "Where did Ethan go?"
"He went to get Mum a muffin from the cafeteria," Julie replied. "Mum kind of had a moment while you were gone and Ethan was a little scared. And I think he wanted to do something to make her feel better so she asked him to get her a muffin from the cafeteria. He doesn't like to see Mum in pain."
"Probably not," Harry said as he saw his wife sigh in relief. "Feeling better now love?" he asked, brushing her hair back and planting a kiss on her forehead.
"Much," Hermione answered with a wide smile. "That is one amazing spell."
Harry grinned. "Heard you scared our son."
Hermione frowned. "I didn't mean to. I just lost it for a moment, Harry. I started to wonder what I was doing. I'm over 40 with a grown daughter and an eight-year old. What am I doing having a baby? Not to mention running the Ministry..."
"You'll do just fine," Harry reassured her. "We have Greta now and--"
"You have me," Julie interrupted. "I'll help during holiday breaks and weekends."
"Oh..." Hermione said starting to cry again. "I...I love you both so much. And Ethan, too."
"Hermione," Harry chuckled. "You're going to scare Ethan again when he comes back with your muffin."
"You're right," Hermione said wiping her eyes.
Harry poured her another glass of water and she was sipping it when Ethan came back.
"Here you go Mummy," he said. "I got you the biggest one they had!"
"You certainly did!" Hermione said laughing as he handed it to her. "Do you want to have half of it?"
"Sure," Ethan nodded. "Uncle Ron tried to take it when I came back."
"I'm sure he did," Harry said laughing. "But you have seeker like reflexes like your old man. He didn't stand a chance, did he?"
"Nope," Ethan shook his head and accepted a piece of the muffin. "Here Dad have a bite."
"Thanks, little man," Harry said.
Another contraction hit Hermione, but it only caused her mild discomfort. "I think we're getting close."
"It's getting exciting," Julie grinned. "Especially now that the pain is gone."
Hermione couldn't agree more. She was starting to get excited, too. In a short while, she'd be welcoming her daughter into the world.
Outside in the crowded waiting room, the receptionist at the front desk kept shooting dirty looks at everyone anytime there was a loud noise or someone laughed.
"Mummy," Maddie said tugging on Luna's arm. "Where did Ethan go?"
"He's inside with his parents and Julie sweetheart," Luna replied. "He's waiting for his baby sister."
Maddie sank down on the sofa beside her mother. "I hope he comes out soon. I don't really have anyone to play with since you wouldn't let me bring Dolly."
"Sweetheart you can go play with your sisters and Frankie," Luna said.
"I'll just wait for Ethan," Maddie said picking up her book. "Can you read to me?"
"Of course," Luna pulled her onto her lap. "What book do you want?"
"This one," Maddie said handing it to Luna. "Julie gave it to me. It's by a real doctor, Mummy."
"Where babies come from and how they're made," Luna read. "Um... Maddie how about something else?"
"You should probably let Dad read that," Jon joked.
"I don't think we need to read this for another few years," Luna said, setting the book in her bag.
"I think I know where babies come from, Jon," Ron said. "I did manage to have six children, didn't I?"
"Excuse me?" Luna asked him. "YOU had six children? I seem to forget the part where YOU gave birth."
Ron turned red. "Hey Jon how about one of those muffins Ethan brought for Hermione?"
"I already gave you one," Jon said shaking his head.
"I'm still hungry," Ron said.
Ethan chose that moment to come out into the waiting area. "She's going to have the baby now!" he announced.
"Now?" Luna asked. "Are you sure?"
"That's why they sent me out," Ethan crossed his arms. "Julie gets to stay and watch."
"I bet they said you were too young, didn't they?" Frankie asked him sympathetically. "I hate it when parents say stuff like that."
Maddie went over to Ethan. "I'm sorry they won't let you stay in the room," she said, putting her arms around him. "But I'll cheer you up Ethan."
"Err..." Ethan said. "Thanks Maddie--"
Maddie took his hand and led him over to the sofa.
"She's got it bad," Chiaki said to Allison. "They're so cute."
"Too cute for words," Allison agreed. "And for once he's not putting up a fight."
"She may just be wearing him down," Lavender remarked. "Those Potter men do like strong women after all."
Nick laughed. "Aye, you're right about that."
"Dad?" Frankie asked Neville. "If you and Mum ever have another baby I want to watch, okay? And I don't want to hear any of that rubbish about me being too young. You put too much emphasis on age when I don't think you can measure maturity in terms of a number, do you?"
"We're not having another baby," Cho said. "So you can get that out of your head right now."
"Okay," Frankie said looking to her oldest sister. "If you and Tosh ever have a baby, I'm going to be right there, front and centre."
"No way," Chiaki shook her head. "No one will be in there but me, Toshio and the person delivering the baby."
"FINE!" Frankie said stomping off. "This is so unfair!"
Allison rolled her eyes. "I was wondering when she was going to say that today."
"Can't go a day without it," Neville joked.
Ron looked on in amazement as Pansy Parkinson walked past them and into Hermione's room.
"Hold on," he said. "Parkinson is delivering Hermione's baby?"
"Who do you think has been walking in and out all this time?" Cho asked sarcastically.
"But she's...evil," Ron said.
"No she's not," Ethan said looking up from the magazine he and Maddie were looking at. "She's cool. She even let me have some Bertie Bott's."
Ron's jaw dropped. "Did I fall into some alternate dimension here? Pansy Parkinson is NICE? She gave Harry's son, Harry POTTER'S son, Bertie Botts?"
"If it makes you feel any better the flavours were vomit and earwax," Ethan said with a grin. "But I also had a peppermint and chocolate, too."
Ron sat down with a thump. "I'm going into shock here. Someone save me!"
"You're so dramatic, Daddy," Maddie said rolling her eyes.
Ron sat up. "Thanks love," he said. "A year ago you walked in my shadow."
"I still love you, Daddy," Maddie said walking over to him. "But you really need to just let things go."
Luna, Cho and Neville burst into laughter as Ron sputtered indignantly.
"I think Maddie has the last word there," Luna chuckled at her husband's expression.
R.J., who had been busily playing with some blocks on the floor stumbled over to his brother. "Jon...hold you..." he said holding his arms up.
Jon laughed and lifted his baby brother into his lap. "Dad's silly isn't he, R.J.?"
RJ nodded. "Silly like Maddie," he whispered.
"Don't let her hear you say that," Jon whispered into his ear. "She's scary sometimes like Mum, isn't she?"
"Like Mum," RJ gave off a little laugh.
"What are you two whispering about over here?" Allison asked coming over to join them.
"Allie!" R.J. said clapping his hands together.
"Hey RJ," she scooped up the little boy in her arms and gave him a kiss on the cheek. "You got so big!" she cooed.
"Big like Daddy," R.J. said.
Allison laughed. "Right, just like daddy," she shared a grin with Jon.
"Don't we have anymore food around here?" Ron asked. When he couldn't find any, he scowled. "Well, I'm going to go and grab something to eat. Maddie? You want to keep me company?"
Maddie, who for once had Ethan's undivided attention, shook her head.
"You don't?" Ron asked.
"No," Maddie said smiling adoringly at Ethan. "I'm a little busy."
Ethan turned red. "You can go with your dad," he muttered, sliding closer to Elinore.
"No," Maddie said scooting closer to him. "It's okay."
Ethan turned even more red and Maddie grinned. "Well don't move any closer."
"Ethan you have to get used to me," Maddie said charmingly. "You keep forgetting that I'm going to marry you someday."
"No, I'm not!" Ethan said hotly. "Grandma! Make her stop!"
"Ethan, Ethan," Elinore kissed the top of his head.
"Maddie," Ron said kneeling down in front of his daughter. "How about you come with me and I'll buy you some chocolate biscuits? We can even get one for your fiancé."
Ethan glared angrily at Ron as Maddie jumped off the sofa. "Don't miss me too long Ethan," she grinned as she left the room hand in hand with Ron.
Ethan stared after her in disbelief. "I'm sorry Aunt Luna, but Maddie's crazy."
"Ethan James," Elinore scolded gently. "You apologise right now."
"I said I was sorry that she was crazy," Ethan argued.
"Maddie just really likes you Ethan," Luna said. "Don't take whatever she says too seriously. She thinks you're the best thing since Cornish pixies."
"I imagine we shouldn't tell him that Maddie thinks she and Ethan are Dolly's parents," Jon whispered to Allison.
Allison had to cover her mouth to keep from laughing too loud. "I don't think he'd take too well to that."
"Probably not," Jon said with a laugh.
Inside the delivery room, Julie and Harry each had a hold on Hermione's hands as Pansy and another nurse encouraged Hermione to push as hard as she could as they guided the baby out.
"Come on Hermione," Pansy said.
"I can't," Hermione said, shaking her head. "I'm knackered...."
"Come on sweetheart," Harry said, kissing her forehead. "Our little baby is almost here..."
Hermione nodded and squeezing Harry's hand as hard as she could pushed with every ounce of strength she could muster.
"That's it, Mum!" Julie called out encouragingly.
Harry's hand was being squeezed into a pancake shape but he didn't care as his wife gave one final push and the sound of a baby's cries filled the air.
"We have a little girl," Pansy smiled at them.
"Harry... we have a girl," Hermione said, her eyes closing in relief. "I was right again..."
"Yes you were," Harry said, kissing her. "You did brilliantly, Hermione!"
Julie laughed. "The girls outnumber the boys yet again. Dad, you and Ethan are in for it now!"
Harry laughed. "I'll have this one on my side, just wait and see," he bragged, using the towel to wipe off Hermione's forehead as Pansy tended to his wife and the nurse took care of the baby.
The newest Potter's cries still filled the room and Hermione laughed. "She definitely takes after me. Listen to her!"
"Aye I wouldn't argue with that," Harry teased and Julie laughed.
"Have you guys picked a name yet?" she looked in the direction of her new sister.
"There is a name that I always liked," Hermione said thoughtfully.
"What's that?" Harry asked softly.
"Saffron," Hermione replied. When Harry didn't react, she frowned. "You don't like it, do you? Well, it was just an idea..."
"I think it's perfect," Harry grinned as the nurse finally brought the baby over.
"She looks like a Saffron," Julie said with a smile. "Saffron.... Grace?"
"I like that," Hermione said as the nurse placed the baby in her arms. "What do you think, little one?"
Saffron let out a little tiny yawn and curled her little hand around Hermione's index finger.
"I think she likes it," Harry beamed with pride at his newest daughter.
"Mum," Julie said looking at her sister with tears in her eyes. "She's beautiful."
"Yes she is," Hermione agreed. "Just like you sweetheart. You looked just like this when you were born."
"I think she's cuter," Julie said with a grin. She looked over at Pansy. "Would it be okay if I went to get my brother?"
"Certainly," Pansy replied. "He didn't seem too happy when he had to leave."
"I'll be right back," Julie said.
"Thank you, Parkin- I mean Pansy," Harry said shaking her hand. "For bringing my little girl into the world."
"No problem Potter," Pansy said. "Who'd have thought?"
"Certainly not me," Harry replied.
Pansy actually smiled at him. "You're not so bad Potter. But don't tell anyone I told you so."
"Your secret is safe with me," Harry said winking at her. He knew that if Ron could see them now, he'd probably pass out from shock.
"Harry?" Hermione called out to him. "Don't you want to hold your daughter?"
"Of course I do," Harry answered, his arms outstretched as Hermione passed the little bundle over to him.
"Where is she?" Ethan asked running into the room.
"Right here, little man," Harry whispered.
"Wow!" Ethan's eyes grew wide. "She's so small! And it's a girl! I knew we'd have a girl. But please don't name her Maddie okay?"
Harry laughed. "We already named her, Ethan. How do you like the name Saffron Grace?"
"Cool!" Ethan grinned. "I like it."
"I thought you were going to tell her off for hurting Mum?" Julie teased.
"She's too cute for that," Ethan replied. "Can... can I hold her?"
"Sure," Harry said. "Why don't you sit down first and then I'll hand her to you?"
"Okay," Ethan perched on a chair while Hermione and Julie looked on with grins.
"Here you go," Harry said gently placing the baby in Ethan's arms.
"She's not really heavy," Ethan said, carefully holding Saffron's head like his father showed him.
Hermione yawned and lay back on the bed, emotionally and physically spent.
"Are you going to be all right Mum?" Julie asked, looking away from the baby for a moment.
"I'm really tired," Hermione said.
"Well you should sleep then," Julie said. "Dad, Ethan and I will take care of everyone outside."
"Okay," Hermione said gratefully.
Harry gave his wife a kiss and pulled the sheets over her. "We'll come back in a little while," he said softly.
"Mmmmmhmmm," Hermione murmured sleepily.
"Dad can we take her out to show everyone?" Ethan asked in excitement as Harry took the baby back into his arms.
"Sure," Harry said. "Come on then, Saffron. Let's show you off, eh?"
Saffron let out a soft coo in reply as Julie opened the door for them.
"Ladies and gentlemen," Ethan said running ahead of them into the waiting area. "And you too, Uncle Ron. I'd like to introduce you all to my little sister, Saffron Grace Potter."
A collective "Awwww" drew from everyone there as they crowded Harry to get a closer look at the new Potter addition.
"She's adorable, Harry," Cho said softly.
He grinned. "Thanks Cho," he said bouncing his daughter lightly in his arms.
Elinore started to sob as she looked at her new granddaughter. "She looks like Hermione!"
"Lucky for her," Ron quipped. "She could look like Harry."
"Don't listen to that red-haired man over there, Saffron," Harry whispered to his daughter. "He's just jealous of your old man."
Ron scoffed. "That'll be the day."
"Where is my daughter?" Robert asked as Harry passed Saffron over to her grandfather.
"Fast asleep," Harry said. "She's been through a lot today. You'd have been proud of her, Robert."
"I always have been," Robert grinned at Saffron.
"Even when she and Harry--", Ron began, but Luna clamped a hand over his mouth.
"Ronald Bilius Weasley," she began fiercely.
"Sorry, Dr. Granger," Ron said sheepishly.
Harry gave him a death glare and Ron looked sheepishly at his youngest daughter. "Want to see Saffron sweetheart?" he asked, picking her up.
"Sure," Maddie said. "She's really small, Daddy!'
"You were that small once love," Ron answered, bringing her closer.
"I was?" Maddie asked him in surprise.
"Even smaller," Ron said, tickling her a little. "Now you're a big girl."
Maddie laughed. "But still Daddy's girl, right?"
`"You'll always be Daddy's girl," Ron said. "You, Drew and Darla."
"So that would make Josh, R.J., and I, what?" Jon asked. "Chopped liver?"
"That sounds really good about now," Ron said, ignoring his son.
"Ewww," Maddie said crinkling up her nose.
"She's so tiny," Allison said as she and Jon inched closer. "Look at her little fingers!"
"I know," Jon reached out and touched Saffron's velvety hair. "Really sweet," he couldn't help smiling.
"She better not be getting any ideas," Neville whispered to his wife.
"Neville," Cho hissed. "Give it a rest for one day, will you?"
"Well she better not," Neville snapped back quietly. "She's far too young for that and I don't even think she should be dating just one person steadily."
Cho just shook her head. "So you'd like her to bring home a different bloke every night, is that it?"
"That's not what I meant and you know it," Neville whispered furiously.
"Can I hold her, Uncle Harry?" Allison asked oblivious to her parents arguing a few feet away.
"Of course you can Allie," Harry replied warmly.
Allison gingerly took the baby from Harry and laughed as Jon made a goofy face that made the baby smile.
"I think she likes you," Allison said smiling at him.
"I have that effect on girls," he boasted jokingly.
"Did you hear that?" Neville asked angrily to his wife.
"He's joking," Cho said walking away and over to Harry. "So, I heard a nasty rumour, Harry. Someone told me Pansy Parkinson delivered little Saffron there. Is it true?"
"Completely," Harry grinned. "She did a damn good job too."
"Unbelievable," Cho said. "I can't believe it."
"I know, I'm as shocked as you are." Harry replied, taking Saffron back.
Cho looked around at the crowded waiting room and then down at the bundle in Harry's arms who was drifting off to sleep.
"I guess it's true what they say," Cho said thoughtfully. "You think your life is going to turn out one way and then something happens or someone comes along that changes everything."
"You can say that again," Harry snorted. "For both of us. For awhile there before I met Hermione I thought I'd have to marry you out of pity," he teased.
"Oh please," Cho said rolling her eyes. "It would have been the other way around and you know it."
"If you say so," Harry grinned.
"I think things worked out exactly as they were supposed to," Cho said as she watched Ethan and Julie talking to Nick. She saw Frankie, Allison and Chiaki joking with each other about something.
"I know I wouldn't give this up for anything," Harry said, holding Saffron closer as she began to fuss a bit.
"Dad," Julie said coming over to him. "The nurse wants to take Saffron now."
"All right," Harry pressed a kiss to his baby's head and passed her carefully to Julie. "How's your Mum?"
"Healer Parkinson said she was fast asleep," Julie said. "I'll be right back."
"Okay sweetheart," Harry said as she walked away with the baby, Nick at her side.
"Harry?" Elinore asked him. "Robert and I were thinking we'd take Ethan home with us. I know you want to stay here with Hermione."
Harry smiled. "Thank you Elinore," he kissed his mother in law on the cheek. "That'd be really fantastic of you."
"I think we're going to go, too," Cho said. "Neville's about to blow a gasket."
"Over what?" Harry looked confused.
"That," Cho motioned to where Jon and Allie were sitting on the sofa holding hands and chatting with Chiaki. "He's just found out that Josh and Jon are getting their own flat and he's already considering all the worst case scenarios..."
Harry rolled his eyes. "Tell him to lighten up."
"I've tried," Cho said. "Maybe he'll listen to me eventually." She smiled at him. "You get some sleep too, Mr. Potter. And give Hermione my best."
"Will do," Harry promised. "Thanks for being here."
"Wouldn't have missed it for the world," Cho said pecking him on the cheek.
Harry said goodbye to the rest of his friends and family. Ethan was excited when he heard he was going to his grandparents that night to stay and after the room cleared, only Julie and Nick were left.
"So Dad are you all tired out yet?" Julie asked with a smile.
"A little," Harry admitted. "I know you must be knackered as well. Why don't you go on home, Jules?"
"I'm okay Dad," Julie replied. "I wasn't up at the crack of dawn making breakfast this morning."
"That's because I was," Nick grinned.
"Maybe Saffron will be the one Potter girl who can actually cook," Julie said elbowing her boyfriend.
Harry laughed. "The one that breaks the mould aye? Maybe I should start reading cookbooks aloud to her while she's still a baby so she absorbs it all."
"Good idea," Julie said. "Start her out with desserts, Dad. Then work your way up to entrees."
"Right," Harry said, yawning. "Oi I think that knackered me out as much as it did Hermione."
"Don't let her hear you say that," Julie teased.
Harry grinned. "I think I'll go in there and keep her company. I'll send you an owl either later today or tomorrow."
"Take care, Dad," Julie said hugging him. "I love you."
"Love you too sweetheart," Harry kissed the top of her head. "Nick, take it easy." He shook hands with the younger man.
"You too, Harry," Nick said with a grin. "Give Hermione my best."
"I will when she wakes up. I just hope my hand recovers," he playfully grimaced.
Sometime later that evening, Hermione awoke and saw that Harry was asleep in the chair beside her bed. "Harry," she said groggily.
He awoke with a start, stretching as soon as he opened his eyes. "Hey," he said, his voice still thick with sleep.
"You can't have been very comfortable," Hermione said smiling at him. "You could have gone home, you know?"
"And leave you?" Harry gingerly crawled next to her. "You'd have never let me hear the end of it."
"I would have," Hermione said with a grin. "Eventually."
"Right," Harry stole a quick kiss. "How are you feeling?"
"Like I got ran over by the Knight Bus," Hermione said with a slight laugh. "How's Saffy?"
"She's in the hospital nursery, probably sleeping," Harry replied. "Want to go and see her?"
"Sure," Hermione said eagerly.
Harry waited while she got into the robe she'd brought with her and they made their way down the corridor. "Everyone loved her of course," he said.
"Of course," Hermione said squeezing his hand.
"Ethan went home with your parents," Harry yawned again. "And Jules said she'd drop by tomorrow."
"Mum and Dad will have their hands full with Ethan," Hermione said softly.
"They love every minute of it too," Harry grinned as they came upon the nursery. "There she is," he said, gazing down at their baby daughter who was lying right next to the window.
Hermione smiled and touched the glass as she looked at her sleeping daughter. "My little girl..."
"She does look just like you," Harry said softly, his hands around her waist.
"She's got better hair," Hermione said, relaxing against him.
"That must be from me," Harry joked, kissing the side of her head before resting his chin on her shoulder. "I can't believe she's finally here."
As if she could sense her parents looking at her, Saffron's eyes blinked open and she stared up at them.
"She's probably wondering why these two people are staring at her," Hermione said smiling broadly.
"I think she recognises us," Harry replied with a wide grin.
"Harry?" Hermione asked still looking at their daughter.
"Hmm?" he asked.
"Things haven't always been easy for us," Hermione said thoughtfully. "We've gone through so much, but I wouldn't change a minute of it. Not one single moment."
"Me either," Harry replied softly. "It's all led us right here."
Hermione curled her arm around his neck. "And to think it all started in a parking lot..."
Harry laughed. "That it did. I'll never forget seeing you for the first time." he kissed the side of her neck.
"Ron told me that you swore up and down that you weren't checking me out," Hermione said laughing.
Harry snorted. "I wasn't about to tell him I was checking you out."
"Why?" Hermione asked.
"I wanted to keep it to myself," Harry replied. "Plus I didn't want them taking the Mickey out of me in case you didn't fancy me back."
"You actually thought I wouldn't fancy you?" Hermione asked him. "You with the very healthy ego?"
"It was a momentary lapse," Harry nuzzled her ear. "But it didn't last long. After I made you all weak in the knees and forget your name I knew I was in."
Hermione laughed. "Which is why you acted like a prat most of the time during our lessons?"
"You're never going to let me forget that are you?" he asked. "Because if you bring that up I can still talk about the time you fell asleep while we were shagging."
"Now that isn't fair!" Hermione protested.
"I think it's fair," Harry grinned as Saffron began to wail. "Why's she crying? Do you think she's hungry?"
"She's mad at you for giving her Mummy a hard time," Hermione said.
"She probably just wants these," Harry boldly grabbed her rather full breasts.
"Harry!" Hermione exclaimed. "You're terrible!"
"I'm also quite randy," he whispered.
Hermione shook her head. "It's only been a few weeks, Harry."
"And as always, that's far too long for me," Harry replied as Hermione began to pull away. "Where are you going?" he whined.
"To go and feed my daughter," Hermione answered going into the nursery.
"Can I come?" he asked with an appealing grin.
"If you want," Hermione teased.
Harry watched as the nurse assisted Hermione in bringing Saffron to a corner of the room and she began to feed their newborn.
"Do you need anything else, Minister?" the nurse asked.
"No," Hermione said smiling at the nurse. "Thank you."
Harry sat down next to her. "You're a wonderful mother Hermione." he smiled as Saffron smacked her tiny lips and yawned.
"And you are an excellent father," Hermione said smiling at him.
"We certainly have a great brood," Harry said, shifting closer. "Couldn't ask for three better kids."
"I know," Hermione said tearing up again. "Ethan was such a big help these last couple of months. And having Julie there when this little one came into the world...I can't even put it into words..."
"It was pretty incredible," Harry agreed, stroking Saffron's soft head.
Hermione yawned and although she didn't want to go to bed, she knew that both she and the baby needed their rest. She got to her feet as the nurse came back over to take the baby.
"Good night my sweet girl," Hermione said kissing Saffron's forehead. "Mummy and Daddy love you very much."
"That's right," Harry said, pressing his lips to his new daughter's forehead. He grinned with pride as the nurse gently set her back in the tiny bed and they left the nursery, spending a few more minutes gazing down at her from the window before going back to Hermione's room.
"Why don't you come up here with me?" Hermione asked as she settled back into her bed. "It will be much comfortable than that chair."
"Is there enough room?" Harry asked, gazing at the narrow hospital bed.
"You are a wizard, aren't you?" Hermione asked him sleepily. "I don't have my wand.."
"That's true," Harry chuckled. He waved his wand and the bed grew wider in a matter of seconds. "I didn't make it as wide as our bed at home. I want to snuggle with my wife tonight."
Hermione smiled at him as he slipped out of his shoes and then got into bed beside her.
"I've missed this," he said, kissing right under her ear. "It's been awhile since you've let me be close to you."
"I've missed it too," Hermione whispered, closing her eyes.
Harry kissed her again and buried his face in her hair. "I love you Hermione," he said quietly.
"I love you," Hermione said. "Will you hold me until I fall asleep?"
"Of course I will," Harry said, pulling her closer so that they were spooning. "Bet when you wake up I'll still be holding you."
Hermione smiled as she shut her eyes and within seconds she'd drifted off to sleep.