Authors' note: We hope you enjoy this latest chapter. Frank/Alice settle in with Neville and Cho and we see the Hogwarts crew as they return home for Easter break.
Frank and Alice were enjoying being out of the hospital and getting to know their family. In a couple of days,
Neville and Cho were going to have the entire family over to have dinner.
Neville was beyond happy because his parents were adjusting better than he could have ever expected.
"Neville," Frank said. "Could you hand me the paper? I feel like Alice and I are so behind the times."
"Sure," Neville said, reaching for it. He did not notice the look on Cho's face. Cho had awoken first that morning and she and Frank had talked about that day's news. He had read the paper just an hour ago.
"Thanks," Frank said. "I can't believe how much things have changed."
"But, you know, the more things change, the more they stay the same," Alice commented.
"That's true too," Frank nodded.
Alice looked at Cho. She was going to go to dance studio with her daughter-in-law and would get to see Chiaki dance.
"What time will we leave for the studio?" she asked Cho.
"Half an hour or so?" Cho replied. "If that's okay with you?"
"Of course," Alice nodded.
Cho smiled. She knew that Chiaki was nervous to dance in front of her grandmother.
"I should go get myself ready," Cho said. "I won't be long."
"Okay," Alice said softly.
Neville watched his wife leave the kitchen. "Is everything okay in your room?" he asked. "Do either of you need anything?"
Alice was looking at the table and did not seem to hear his question.
"Mum?" Neville asked.
Alice looked at him. "Yes?"
"I was asking if either of you needs anything," Neville said again.
"Oh," Alice said hastily. "No, we're fine."
"Good," Neville smiled. "I'm glad to hear you're both doing well."
Alice stood up. "I'm going to get ready."
Neville nodded. "What would you like to do today, Dad?"
Frank shrugged. "It doesn't matter to me, son. I'm sure you have work..."
"I do have to go in for a few hours," Neville said. "But I can make time for you."
Frank shook his head. "Don't worry about me, son. I was thinking I'd go to the park for a walk. I used to love doing that, you know."
Neville smiled. "It's a nice day for a walk."
"So you can go to work and I can have my walk," Frank said. "And don't look so worried, Neville. I'm not a child. I can find my way home."
"I know you can," Neville said.
Frank patted his son's arm. "Don't worry so much, son."
"I guess I can't help it," Neville said. "I have you back after so long--"
Frank nodded. "I know."
"Maybe I feel a bit like the parent," Neville admitted.
"You are," Frank said with a grin.
Neville laughed. "I'll be back around lunchtime."
"You're going to take me to The Leaky Cauldron, right?" Frank asked. "And you're buying!"
"Sure thing," Neville agreed. "That sounds great."
Neville walked upstairs to get some papers. He smiled at his wife. "Thanks so much for taking Mum with you to the studio, Cho."
"I'm happy to do it," Cho assured him. "But Neville... did you realise that your father has read the paper twice now this morning? He doesn't remember the first time."
Neville looked at her. "What are you talking about?"
"I read AND discussed the paper this morning with Frank," Cho told him gently. "Perhaps it's something to bring up to the healers."
Neville shook his head. "Cho, come on. It's nothing."
"Perhaps," Cho agreed cautiously. "But still..."
"Don't worry so much," Neville said walking over to her. "I remember you telling me the exact same thing the first night they were here."
"I just want you to be happy," Cho said as he slid his arms around her. "I've never seen you like this, Nev."
"I'm on top of the world, Cho," Neville said. "My children are happy and healthy. My grandchildren are happy and healthy. I have a great wife, a great job and I have my parents."
"You've got it all," Cho gave him a kiss. "I love you."
"I love you," Neville said.
"See you later," Cho replied. "We'll be home early evening."
"Give Chiaki my love," Neville told her.
"I will," Cho promised before leaving.
Neville walked downstairs to check on his father. He smiled. Never in a million years did he ever imagine being in this situation. And although it was still early in the year, Neville was already looking forward to Christmas. He had never had a real Christmas with his parents and he wanted to know what that would be like.
"Are you sure you'll be okay for a little while?" Neville asked Frank.
Frank nodded. "I'll be fine. I shouldn't be gone for more than a couple of hours."
"I'll be back as soon as I can," Neville promised.
"I'll be back as soon as I can," Neville promised.
Neville gave his father a hug. "I'll see you later, Dad."
Frank smiled. "I'm just going to read the paper for a bit. I have to catch up on the news."
Neville looked properly at his father. "Dad, you already read the paper..."
"No I didn't," Frank replied.
"Yes, you did," Neville said gently. "When we were eating breakfast, remember?"
Frank shook his head. "I don't remember."
"Its okay, Dad," Neville reassured him. "You can read the paper again."
Frank nodded. "I think I will."
Neville told himself that it was just a lapse in memory. It was nothing to concern himself with at the moment. If it kept happening, he would tell the healers.
He looked at his father for another moment or two before heading into the office.
Neville attended that morning's briefing with Ethan, Justin and Harry. Lupin was discussing upcoming raids. It was nice to be back in action, but at the back of his mind, he kept thinking about his father.
He had to admit, Frank's lapse in memory bothered him quite a bit.
He had dismissed Cho's concerns, but maybe this was something he should monitor.
"Hey," Harry nudged him.
"Yeah?" Neville asked, startled.
"We have an assignment," Harry said. "Are you in?"
Neville nodded hastily. "Of course."
"Is everything all right?" Harry asked.
Neville shrugged. "Pretty much. I'm just worried. Today's the first day I've left my dad on his own since they left hospital."
"I'm sure he'll be fine," Harry reassured him.
Neville stood up and followed his friend out of the room. "Yeah, me too."
"Ethan and Justin are handling the first part of the job," Harry told him. "We've got the cleanup."
Neville felt embarrassed that he had no idea about what this assignment involved. He sheepishly asked Harry to go over the specifics again.
Harry handed him the spec sheet. "Are you sure you're all right? Maybe I should do this myself."
"No, I'm in," Neville told him.
"All right," Harry nodded.
"Just a little preoccupied, but nothing I can't handle," Neville said confidently. "Besides, I'm not the one whose baby daughter is getting married soon."
"Don't get me started," Harry said. "Or Ethan for that matter."
"Really?" Neville grinned.
"He likes Andrew just fine," Harry explained. "But he wants to make sure Andrew knows exactly where he stands."
"Too right," Ethan agreed, coming up behind them.
"We just don't tell Saffron," Harry said.
Ethan laughed. "I'm not afraid of her."
Justin snorted. "Sure you're not."
"I'm not," Ethan said sitting down at his desk.
"I'll tell her right now that you said that," Harry headed for the fireplace.
Ethan stood up quickly. "Dad!"
"I figured as much," Harry replied.
"Maybe I'm a little afraid of her," Ethan admitted.
"Or a lot," Justin cracked.
Neville laughed. "Kind of like Harry's afraid of Hermione."
"I am not," Harry denied. "And you can go ahead and ask her that."
Ethan grinned. "I will. Next time I see her."
"You should," Harry said. "And for now, shouldn't you both be heading out?"
"Yes," Ethan said motioning for Justin to follow him. "Come on, mate."
"Send us a signal and we'll come by after you're done," Harry told them.
Ethan nodded and led his friend out of headquarters. Neville sat down in Ethan's vacant seat and read over the spec sheet.
While Neville worked, Alice was watching her oldest granddaughter dance. Chiaki moved so effortlessly and gracefully across the floor.
"She's wonderful," Alice whispered to Cho.
Cho smiled back at her. "She's been dancing all her life."
"So have you, right?" Alice asked her.
Cho nodded. "It was all I ever wanted to do."
The music ended and Chiaki landed lightly on her feet. "How was that?"
Alice stood up and clapped enthusiastically. "That was beautiful, Chiaki. Absolutely beautiful!"
Chiaki grinned. "Thank you!"
Alice gave her a hug. "My talented granddaughter!"
Chiaki hugged her back tightly. "I've always wanted to dance for you."
Tears welled up in Alice's eyes as she looked at her granddaughter's beaming face.
"Are you okay?" Cho asked her concernedly.
Alice nodded. "Just very ...happy and proud."
"Thanks," Chiaki said, hugging her again.
"How about I make us all some tea and we can chat before the first lesson?" Cho asked. Their first students of the day would be arriving in about an hour.
"That sounds lovely," Alice nodded.
Cho excused herself to make the tea in the back room while Chiaki and Alice chatted. Chiaki did some stretches and Alice sat back down. "So," Chiaki asked with a grin. "When did you and Grandpa first fall in love?"
"What was probably a long time ago now," Alice said. "We were in school together."
"Love at first sight?" Chiaki asked.
"Something like that," Alice nodded. "Love at first sight our sixth year."
"I saw the photos from your wedding," Chiaki recalled. "Gran had a big photo album. I remember thinking how beautiful you looked and the way Grandpa looked at you."
"You have my wedding album?" Alice asked, raising her head.
"Gran gave it to Dad," Chiaki nodded. "I'm surprised he hasn't let you see it."
"I'll ask him when we get home," Alice said.
"Everyone's looking forward to the dinner," Chiaki said coming to sit beside her.
Cho came back in with a tray. "Emma's especially excited.
"You'll see how the other children absolutely adore her," Chiaki told Alice. "Well, except for Adam. But, that's because she bosses him around."
Cho laughed. "They'll get along well soon enough."
The three ladies enjoyed their tea and biscuits and chatted with each other until the students started to arrive. Alice watched as Cho and Chiaki taught the girls their dances. All in all, it was a fun afternoon and Alice was eager to go home and tell Frank about her day.
"I just need to close up and we can head back home," Cho said, closing the door to the studio and ushering them into the office where the Floo network was set up.
Alice nodded and smiled at Chiaki as her granddaughter linked her arm with hers.
Neville arrived back home expecting to see his father in the kitchen or sitting room but to his surprise the house was cold and dark.
"Dad?" Neville called out.
He checked the bedrooms and was about to look in the backyard when the fireplace whooshed to life.
He turned hoping to see his father, but instead saw his wife, mother and daughter.
"Did my father meet you at the studio?" Neville asked.
Cho shook her head. "No, we thought he was with you."
"I just got home from work," he said. "He just told me he was going for a walk today..."
Alice paled. "Frank..."
"He's all right," Cho assured her. "Right, Neville? I'm sure he's fine."
Neville nodded, trying not to show his worry in front of his mother. "I'll---I'll just go out and look for him."
"He's probably just at the park," Chiaki said. "I'll go with you, Dad."
"Thanks," Neville said. He turned his attention to Alice. "Mum, don't worry, okay?"
"Find him, Neville." Alice begged.
"I will," Neville promised squeezing her hand.
Chiaki pulled her cloak back on as they headed out. "Do you think he's in the park?" she asked her father anxiously.
Neville sighed. "I don't know, Chiaki. I knew---I knew that I shouldn't leave him on his own."
"You didn't know," Chiaki said. "Come on. We'll find him."
Neville and Chiaki made it to the closest park to the house and split up to search for Frank.
"Meet me back here in ten minutes," Neville said.
Chiaki hurried across the park toward the playground.
She kept her eyes peeled, looking even on the slide and swings to see if her grandfather was there.
Neville was not having any luck on his search either.
"Dad?" he called out. "Dad... where are you?"
Neville tried to remain calm and silently reminded himself that he was an Auror, trained to find anyone, anywhere.
He would never let this happen again, he swore. From here on out, he'd either be here with his parents or have someone else drop by.
Neville and Chiaki combed every inch of the park but could not find any sign of Frank. With heavy hearts, they headed back home.
"Where could he have gone?" Chiaki asked worriedly. "Should we perhaps checkHyde Park?"
"He said he was going to stay close to home," Neville said. "Hyde Park is further away."
Chiaki nodded. "Perhaps he found his own way home."
Neville hoped that was the case.
Chiaki hurried ahead of him to the house. "Mum?" she called out. "Have you heard anything--?"
"We just received an owl from the Cavendishes," Cho said holding up a letter. Neville raised an eyebrow. "The family that bought Gran's house? Look, I don't think---"
"Frank's there," Cho interrupted him.
"What?" Neville asked.
"He went there," Cho told him. "He thinks your Gran is still alive."
Chiaki gasped. "Oh..."
Neville sighed. "I'll head over there."
"I'll go with you," Chiaki said.
Neville nodded distractedly.
Neville and Chiaki used the Floo and arrived at the Cavendish home a few minutes later.
Neville headed right into the kitchen where Frank was seated with a cup of tea in front of him. "Dad!"
Mrs. Cavendish smiled warmly at Neville. "He's fine, Neville. Just a little disoriented."
"Thank you," Neville said gratefully. "I'm so sorry to have disturbed you--"
"It's no trouble," Mrs. Cavendish said. "Take all the time you need. I'll be in the sitting room."
"Thanks," Neville said again as he sat down. "Hey Dad..."
Chiaki sat down on the other side of her grandfather. "Grandpa..."
"I just wanted to see the old place again," Frank explained.
Neville nodded in understanding. "Why didn't you say something?"
"I just decided to come over," Frank shrugged.
"We were all worried," Chiaki told him.
Frank looked at her properly. "But I'm fine."
Chiaki patted his arm. "But, we didn't know that. Gran's beside herself."
Frank sighed. "I didn't mean to make Alice worry."
"How are you?" Neville asked.
"I feel fine," Frank said. "I had a nice walk."
Chiaki smiled. "You did?"
Frank nodded. "Just in the park. Then I came over here. These nice people let me in, and I got to see where Mother lived before she died."
"She was very happy here," Neville recalled. "Well, as happy as she could be."
Frank nodded. "I'm glad she was happy."
Chiaki smiled at her grandfather. "I just wish she could have been here to see you and Gran."
Frank finished his tea. "I should get back to Alice. I shouldn't have left her for so long."
Chiaki took his hand. "Come on then."
"Did she like your dancing?" Frank asked her.
Chiaki nodded. "She did and she really liked watching the little girls dance, too. Smiled the entire time."
"Good," Frank said as Neville bid the Cavendish family goodbye and followed them out.
At home, Cho was trying to reassure Alice.
"I'm sure he's just fine," Cho said. "Just a bit confused. It's bound to happen."
Alice nodded. "It just feels like we've woken up from this dream, ten steps behind everyone else."
Cho nodded. "You both have been through a lot."
"He's my best friend," Alice said wiping at her eyes.
Cho put an arm around her. "I'm sure they'll be home anytime now."
Alice rested her head on Cho's shoulder. She had not known her very long, but she already loved her daughter-in-law.
"How about just a bit of tea?" Cho suggested. "Might help you relax."
"That'd be nice," Alice replied, just as the fireplace roared to life.
Cho stood up as her husband, daughter and father in law tumbled out.
"Frank!" Alice exclaimed.
"Grandpa just wanted to see Gran's home," Chiaki said. "He had a nice visit with the new tenants."
Alice threw her arms around her husband. "Oh, Frank!"
Frank hugged her tightly. "Its okay, Alice."
Cho walked over to her husband. "Neville, are you okay?"
"Fine," Neville said. "He's fine... everyone's fine."
Cho gave him a hug. "You'll need to tell the healers about this, Neville."
"I know," Neville said. "But he seems fine now."
Cho nodded. "For peace of mind, though. You have to tell the healers."
"I will," Neville said, his tone a bit sharp.
Cho sighed. "I was going to make some tea."
"Fine," Neville nodded. "That will be nice."
Neville did not tell her that he was afraid of what the healers might tell him. He had read over every piece of research about the counter spell. But, his parents had done so well. They hadn't had any problems, until today.
Chiaki was helping her mother make the tea. "It's so weird- they said he was talking about Gran, but he was completely fine while we were there."
Cho told her daughter about what had happened that morning with the newspaper.
"I think Dad definitely needs to mention this to the healers," Chiaki said. "Don't they have to go in for treatments every so often?"
Cho nodded. "I think he's afraid though of what they might say."
Chiaki nodded in agreement.
"But hopefully this is an isolated incident," Cho said. "And Frank and Alice will continue to adjust to their new life."
"I hope so," Chiaki said. "I love having them here and getting to know them."
"Me too," Cho agreed. "And we still have that dinner to plan for the whole family."
"That's going to be a lot of fun," Chiaki said. "I bet Gran will love to help too."
Cho smiled. "I'm sure she would, too. She's a great cook."
"Let's ask her then," Chiaki said. "Maybe it'll make her a little less anxious about it."
"You want to do the honours?" Cho asked her daughter.
Chiaki grinned. "Sure."
Chiaki walked out of the kitchen and into the sitting room where her grandparents were. "Gran?"
Alice looked up.
Chiaki knelt down before her. "You know the family dinner we have coming up? Well, there are loads of Longbottoms coming, not to mention a contention of Weasleys. Jon and Emma alone will eat more than two helpings of everything. So, Mum and I were wondering if you would help with the planning?"
Frank smiled at his wife. "That sounds like fun, Alice."
Alice squeezed her granddaughter's hand. "I'd love that."
"Great," Chiaki said happily. "I heard you're a great cook."
Frank chuckled. "That's the main reason I married her."
Alice nudged him. "There were more reasons than that."
"One of the many reasons," Frank corrected with a grin.
"Mum's making tea, and we can start work while we have that," Chiaki said. "I've got to go home and check on my kids but I'll be back."
"Toshio and Sukie?" Alice remembered.
"Toshio is my husband," Chiaki said. "Mas and Sukie are my son and daughter."
Alice nodded. "Right. And he's a dancer, too, right?"
"That's right," Chiaki nodded.
Alice smiled. "Frank, you should have seen Chiaki today. She was absolutely beautiful and so graceful!"
"I'd love to see you dance sometime," Frank said to his granddaughter.
Chiaki smiled at him. "I'd love that, Grandpa."
"We can see them dance on stage together," Alice said.
"Absolutely," Chiaki told them.
*** *** ***
The train ride home from Hogwarts for Easter holidays was passing by relatively quietly. Ashley was busy sketching as always as Brittany and Evan kept sneaking out of the compartment for a quick snog.
Zander looked up from his comic book as Evan and Brittany left once again. "I hope they don't think they're fooling anyone."
"I hardly think so," Ashley replied. "I'm sure it's just they don't care if we know or not."
The compartment door swung open and Katie walked inside. She dramatically sunk down beside her sister. "Do you mind if I hang out in here? I have to get away from Jemima before I shove my fist in her face."
"What did she do now?" Ashley asked.
"That cow," Katie said rolling her eyes. "Found about me losing my ring and she was joking about it with her minion, Piper."
"You didn't lose it," Zander commented. "Your mum took it."
Katie glared at him. "Thanks for the recap."
"Well as usual, Jemima's got her information wrong," Zander shrugged.
"Well, I just hope Daddy gives it back to me at the station," Katie said.
"I thought he said he gave it back to his dad," Ashley said absently.
"Grandpa said he would send it back," Katie said pulling Draco's letter from her pocket.
Ashley stopped sketching. "He's writing to you again?"
"Of course," Katie replied. "He and our grandmother are going to Bermuda for Easter. He said he would get me something." Ashley sighed. "Katie, those people are not our grandparents."
"Yes they are," Katie said. "You're just mad because they like me and not you."
Ashley looked properly at her sister. "Katie, that's not true. You know how Mum and Dad feel about them. I just don't want to see you get hurt or into any more trouble."
'I'm not going to get in trouble," Katie denied.
"Famous last words," Ashley said. "Did you remember what Mum said? She said Daddy was absolutely furious at his father for giving you that ring."
Katie rolled her eyes. "You're just as bad as Jemima."
Ashley sighed. "Katie, I'm nothing like her and you know it. I kept your secret, didn't I?"
"Yes," Katie admitted.
"And I won't say anything else to Mum and Dad, but I just want you to be careful," Ashley told her.
"Everything will be fine," Katie said. "Just as soon as I get my ring back."
Zander and Ashley shared a look and Zander stood up. "I'm going to find the sweets lady. You guys want anything?"
"I'm fine," Ashley said, shaking her head
"You may get me a pack of Drooble's," Katie said. "And Pumpkin Pasties. And be quick about it."
"Katie!" Ashley chastised.
"Please?" Katie added hastily.
Zander laughed. "Coming right up, Your Highness." With that, he took off down the corridor to find the cart. He saw the queue lining up and he sighed. This was going to take awhile, obviously.
"Great," he muttered to himself, leaning against the wall.
"Ugh," he heard someone mutter from behind him.
"Isn't it always this way?" he asked without looking to see who it was. "Always a queue."
"You should be used to waiting though," the girl said. "I mean, you are a Seeker, after all. You have to wait a long time to see the Snitch. Well, not a LONG time, but you know what I mean..."
He turned to see who it was- Gina Sloper, Jack's younger sister and fellow Quidditch team mate.
"I know what you mean, Gina," Zander reassured her. "But, I'm not the most patient person, especially when I'm hungry."
Gina laughed. "Me either."
"I didn't realise you and Jack were going home for Easter hols," Zander commented. "I thought he would want to stay at school and write up a new game plan for our match with Ravenclaw."
"He said he can work on that at home," Gina shrugged. "We have a ton of Quidditch books he couldn't bring with."
Zander nodded. "He's pretty intense, isn't he?"
"It's his life," Gina said. "He's got his sights set on playing professionally."
"And what about you?" Zander asked. "Is that what you want to do, too?"
"Maybe," Gina replied. "To be honest, I haven't really figured it out yet.
Zander nodded. "Well, you're a fourth-year. You still have loads of time."
"I'm not too worried about it," Gina said with an easy grin.
"I like Quidditch, but I don't think it's going to be my career," Zander said. "I want to do something with music."
"Do you play an instrument?" Gina asked him.
Zander nodded. "Mostly piano, but I can play the guitar and drums as well."
"Wow," Gina looked impressed.
"I'd like to study it more at University actually," Zander told her.
"I always did like a bloke who knew how to make music," Gina said, blushing a bit.
Zander entertained the thought that she was flirting with him, but why would she? He was a third-year and she was a whole year older.
"Maybe you'll let me hear something sometime," Gina continued.
"Sure," Zander replied.
"Cool," Gina said as they moved forward in the queue. "So um... where are you sitting?"
"Toward the front," Zander motioned. "With my cousin and some friends."
"Mind if I join you?" Gina asked. "I'm sort of bored sitting with Jack..."
Zander nodded. "Sure."
Gina grinned wider. "Great." she said as they moved up to the sweets cart.
The two of them picked out what they wanted and paid the lady. Zander led the way back to the compartment.
Brittany and Evan were sitting close by one of the windows and Katie was digging through her bag. "Here you go, your Highness," he tossed Katie her sweets.
Katie did not reply at first and Ashley nudged her.
"Oh," Katie said. "Thanks."
Zander handed Ashley a Cauldron Cake. "I know you said you didn't want anything, but I got you this just in case."
Ashley smiled at him. "Thanks. I guess I am a bit hungry."
"You guys know Gina Sloper, right?" Zander asked.
"I do," Evan joked.
Gina laughed. "Hi, Evan. And I know Ashley and Brittany of course."
"I'm Katie Malfoy," Katie announced, giving Gina the once-over.
"Hi Katie," Gina greeted her. "It's nice to meet you."
"She's slumming," Zander told Gina.
"So funny, Zander." Katie said.
Zander and Gina sat down and started to eat their sweets.
"Thanks for bringing us something," Brittany said to her cousin.
Zander grinned at her. "You remember, Brit? The first time you left the compartment? You said you and Evan were going to get sweets..."
"We got some then," Brittany said. "We... worked them off."
"Eww," Ashley made a face.
"Don't ever mention that to me," Zander told her.
"You're so immature," Brittany waved him off.
Evan laughed. "Well, I guess now would be a good time to change the subject. Ashley, I have good news for you."
"What's that?" Ashley asked as she unwrapped her Cauldron Cake.
"Well," Evan began.
"James is going to be at Kings' Cross!" Brittany interjected.
"What?" Ashley asked. "He is? He didn't tell me that!"
"Duh," Brittany said. "It's a surprise. Beauxbatons let out a couple of days before us for Easter hols and James is staying at Evan's..."
"He wanted it to be a surprise," Evan told Ashley.
Ashley smiled. "It's a big surprise."
"James is SO hot," Katie commented. "I would totally go out with him."
"You're eleven," Ashley reminded her.
"Almost twelve," Katie said. "But he doesn't like me, he fancies you."
Ashley blushed.
Zander rolled his eyes at Gina. "Sorry you have to be in here for all this mushy stuff."
"Who is James?" Gina whispered.
Zander only felt a very slight pang of jealousy. "Evan's friend... he and Ash are sort of going out."
Gina nodded. "Oh. I see."
Zander smiled at her. "So what else do you plan on doing for Easter hols?"
Gina leaned back in her seat. "Well, other than catching up on my sleep, you mean?"
"That's probably what I'll do," Zander replied.
Gina bit her bottom lip. "Um, Zander. Would you like to get together some time? Over the break, I mean?"
He looked at her in surprise. "You want to hang out with me?"
"Of course," Gina said softly. "Why wouldn't I?"
"We never have before," Zander replied. "And you're a year older than me..."
"We're team mates," Gina pointed out. "And I don't really care about age. I care about what kind of person you are."
"Right," Zander said. "Sorry. I didn't mean to imply--"
"It's okay," Gina said. "So…what do you say?"
"Okay," Zander replied.
Gina smiled. "Really?"
"It sounds like fun," Zander nodded.
"So, it's a date," Gina said before popping a Bertie Botts' into her mouth. "Eww...earwax."
"Gross," Katie said. "I hate Bertie Botts."
"I love them," Gina said. "I just hate when I get earwax or vomit."
"I like the grass ones," Zander said.
Gina offered a handle of the sweets to Zander and did not notice Brittany slide over to sit beside Ashley. "She totally fancies him, don't you think?" Brittany asked in a low voice.
Ashley nodded. "Big time."
"I think it's great," Brittany said. "And she's an older woman, too."
Ashley laughed. "Only by a year."
"I'll try not to tease him too much," Brittany said. "We're nearly at the station, you know..."
"Are we?" Ashley straightened up.
"You should put on some lip gloss," Brittany said. "And put your hair down..."
Ashley tugged her hair out of her ponytail. "I don't have any lip gloss."
"Oh," Brittany frowned. "Well, I don't think you'll need it, then. James likes you as you are."
Ashley blushed. "I can't believe he's here."
"After all this time," Brittany said dramatically.
Ashley nervously ran her fingers through her hair as the train pulled into King's Cross. Katie grinned at her sister. "I see him!"
Ashley felt knots in her stomach.
"He looks GOOD!" Katie exclaimed.
Brittany peered out the window. "Ooooh, he does!"
Ashley peered over their shoulders and felt her stomach lurch in a pleasant way when she saw James standing by Evan's parents.
"Come on," Brittany grabbed her arm. "Let's go."
Ashley grabbed her bag. "Come on Katie."
Katie forgot about her worries over her parents and the ring as she followed her sister out of the compartment.
Ashley suddenly felt shy as she stepped off the train. She hadn't seen or spoken to James since New Year's. What if he only liked her as a friend now?
"Hello, Miss Malfoy," James said stepping over to her.
"Hi," Ashley said, her voice just barely above a whisper.
"It's good to see you again," he said with a smile.
"You too," Ashley said, clearing her throat. "This is a really nice surprise."
"My parents were going to be away on business and Evan's mum said I could stay with them," James explained. "I admit I had ulterior motives though..."
"You did?" Ashley asked with a smile.
James nodded. "Yes."
Ashley's smile turned into a grin. "I missed you."
"I missed you too," James said. "Look, I know you have to go, but I hope we can see each other a few times over the holiday."
Ashley nodded. "I'll make sure we see each other."
Katie saw her father looking for them in the crowd. "I'll give you a few minutes, Ashley." Ashley watched as her sister ran toward their father.
"Katie Bear!" Nick exclaimed opening his arms for a hug, but Katie pouted at him.
"Daddy, where's my ring?" she asked. "Can I have it back?"
Nick sighed. "Let's not talk about that here."
"But, Mummy said---" Katie protested.
"We'll talk about this at home," Nick said. "Where's your sister?"
"She's in the loo," Katie lied. "She said she'd be out in a moment."
"Oh," Nick nodded. "Let's go get your trunks then."
"Then can we talk about my ring?" Katie asked.
Nick didn't answer her.
Katie purposely walked slow to give her sister some extra time with James.
Meanwhile, Ashley had pulled him back onto the train. "Remind me to thank my sister later." she said softly.
"Me too," James said leaning in for a kiss.
Ashley closed her eyes as James pressed his lips to hers.
James put his arms around her as deepened the kiss.
Ashley felt an excited flutter in her stomach as she felt his arms go around her waist.
"I've been waiting awhile to do that again," James said when they pulled apart.
"I was too," Ashley said breathlessly.
"We'd better go," James said. "I don't want you to get into any trouble."
"Right," Ashley kissed him again quickly.
James smiled. "I'll owl you later, okay?"
"I can't wait," Ashley told him.
She gave him a hug before she departed the train. She pushed her way through the crowd and found her sister and father. "Hi, Ash," Nick said hugging her tightly.
"Hi Dad," Ashley said, sending a grateful look to her sister. "I missed you!"
"I missed you too, sweetheart," Nick said. "Both of my girls."
"How's Sophie?" Ashley asked.
"Eager to see you both," Nick said.
Ashley grinned. "Let's go then."
Katie winked at her sister. "All good?"
"Feeling great," Ashley linked her arm with Katie's.
"Good news for you both as well," Nick told them. "Greta's visiting."
"Yay!" Katie said. "Maybe she knows something about my ring."
Nick look at her. "Katherine Rose..."
"Well it's not fair," Katie complained. "I really loved that ring."
"Well, your 'grandfather' doesn't give anything without expecting something in return," Nick told her.
"He likes me," Katie pouted.
Nick stopped and looked down at her. "Katie, you are never in your life going to meet anyone as selfish as my mother and father. They barely acknowledged that they had a kid unless they needed me to play happy family. They are not good people and I do not want them anywhere near you or your sister."
"Just because they didn't like you--" Katie began.
"Katie!" Ashley exclaimed.
"It's true," Katie said angrily.
"Let's go," Nick said in a tone that brooked no refusal.
Ashley looked sympathetically at her sister as they left the platform. Katie had done something nice for her by stalling their father so she could have a minute with James. Perhaps when they got home she could talk their father into letting Katie keep the ring.
Nick walked ahead of them, trying to keep calm. Damn his father for doing this, he thought to himself.
Katie kept glowering even after they'd gotten home and were seated around the kitchen table as Greta brought them all some things she had baked.
"How has it been travelling with your sister?" Ashley asked Greta.
"We have had a wonderful time," Greta said. "Going to all these places we always talked about."
Ashley smiled. "I'm just glad you're going to be here for the holiday. It feels like ages since we've seen you."
"I missed both of you," Greta said. "Very, very much."
"We've missed you too," Katie said. "Greta, can I ask you something?"
"Of course you can, love." Greta answered.
"Family is very important, right?" Katie asked. "Especially family heirlooms.."
"Katie!" Nick snapped.
"Daddy, all I want is to have my ring back that my grandfather gave me!" Katie argued. "That's all!"
Greta looked over at Nick. "Your father gave her a ring?"
"You remember that gaudy one with the emerald he was so bloody proud of?" Nick asked her.
"It was NOT gaudy," Katie said. "It was a beautiful ring, and he gave it to me and you won't let me have it back!"
"He gave it you against my wishes," Nick pointed out. "And I'm not going to discuss this with you anymore."
"Dad," Ashley began. "I'm sure it was just a ring. Nothing else."
Katie smiled gratefully at her sister.
"I don't want to hear it, Ash." Nick replied.
"Can I go to my room?" Katie asked, pushing her plate away. "I'm not very hungry."
Without waiting for an answer, Katie hurried off. Ashley looked back at their father. "I know you don't like your dad, but it's just a ring."
"Just a ring," Nick muttered.
"It is," Ashley said. "And she really loves it."
Nick stood up and walked out of the kitchen.
Ashley sighed. "Now he's mad at me."
Greta shook her head. "That's not it, love. He's mad at the situation. I'll be right back."
Ashley nodded, picking at her food.
Greta found Nick in his studio. "Nicholas..."
"It's like whenever things are going good, that bastard finds me," Nick said bitterly.
Greta put her hand on his shoulder.
"I hate him," Nick said. "I hate both of them."
Greta knew that all too well. She had spent much of her employment with Draco and Ginny Malfoy wanting to shake them and make them be good parents to their son.
Nick sighed. "And now out of the blue he gives Katie this ring."
"Perhaps, Ashley is right and it is just a ring," Greta said thoughtfully.
"You too?" Nick asked disbelievingly.
Greta shook her head. "I don't know, Nicholas. I know just as well as you do how your father is."
"I don't know," Nick said. "I'll talk to Jules when she gets home."
"You know, Katherine reminds me a lot of you at that age," Greta said. "Headstrong, stubborn and unwilling to take no for an answer."
Nick finally smiled.
Greta gave him a hug. "You'd do anything for those girls, Nicholas. You're a great father."
"Thanks Greta," Nick said. "I guess sometimes I still need to hear that."
Greta smiled. "I'm going to start dinner. Now, don't even bother telling me I don't have to since I do not work for you anymore. I want to."
"I wouldn't turn that down," Nick admitted.
Greta gave him another hug before heading upstairs. Nick sank down in a chair. Katie was just like him at that age. He was still naive enough to think his parents were not so bad.
"Dad," a twelve year old Nick came into the sitting room. "Listen to what I can play on the piano!"
Draco looked up from his paper. "I thought you were away at school."
Nick shook his head. "I was, but I'm home now for the summer."
Ginny came into the room, carrying a glass of wine. "My head is throbbing."
"I wonder why," Draco muttered.
"Oh, Nicholas!" Ginny exclaimed, stumbling a bit as she walked over to him. "You're h-home!"
"Hi Mum," Nick said hesitantly.
"Ginevra, it's noon," Draco said looking disdainfully at her. "How much have you had to drink."
"This much," Ginny held up her glass.
"Mum," Nick said. "I was about to play this new piece of music for Dad. I've been working on it for awhile. Professor Stewart said that I was the best he's ever heard."
"You play music?" Ginny asked, stumbling as she dropped onto the sofa. "Since when?"
"Since you put me in lessons when I was five," Nick replied taking a seat at the piano.
"I don't remember that," Ginny said, swallowing the contents of her glass.
She picked up the bell and rang it. "Where is that infernal Greta? Greta!"
"She takes too long to do things around here," Draco complained.
Greta walked into the sitting room. "Miss Malfoy? You rang?"
"Get me another drink," Ginny ordered.
Greta nodded and picked up Ginny's glass.
"And be quick," Ginny said. "I'm tired of your lollygagging."
Nick began playing the composition he had worked on for so many weeks. Greta smiled encouragingly at him.
"What is this racket?" Draco asked angrily.
Ginny put a hand to her temple. "Nicholas, please...stop."
Nick turned to look at his parents. "But I wrote it for you both."
"What's it called?" Draco asked looking at Ginny. "Drunk before noon?"
Ginny glared at her husband. "I wouldn't have to drink if you would just stay home once in awhile."
Draco stood up and set his paper down. "Because hanging around with my wife the lush is so much fun? I don't think so. I'm going to the hospital."
"To HER!" Ginny said, sobbing.
Draco rolled his eyes before stalking out of the room.
"He hates me," Ginny said, still sobbing.
Nick stood up and walked over to his mother. "He doesn't hate you, Mum."
"Yes he does," Ginny said hysterically.
Nick put his hand on her shoulder. "It's okay, Mum. I promise."
"You don't understand," Ginny said, shrugging away from her son.
"I can play my song for you," Nick offered. "You didn't get to hear all of it."
"I don't want to listen to that drivel," Ginny said. "GRETA! WHERE'S MY DRINK?"
Greta carried the glass of wine to Ginny. "Here you are."
"Took you long enough," Ginny snatched it away from her.
Ginny struggled to get to her feet. "I'll be in my room!"
"But Mum..." Nick began.
Ginny did not even glance over her shoulder as she sauntered out of the room. Greta sat down beside Nick on the sofa. "I'd like to hear your song, Nicholas."
"But I really wanted them to hear it," Nick said in dismay.
Greta nodded. "Maybe you can play it for them after dinner."
Nick shrugged. "I guess."
The little boy saw his father's old Malfoy ring on the coffee table and he picked it up and looked at it. "Dad forgot his ring," he said quietly.
Greta patted the young boy's shoulder. "You are a talented, handsome young man, Nick. Your parents don't know what a gem you are."
Nick gave her a half-hearted smile. "Thanks, Greta."
Greta hugged him to her. "Always know that you have me," she told him. "No matter what."
"I know," Nick said. "I'm glad."
"Let me hear your song," Greta urged.
Nick smiled. "Okay."
Greta sat down as Nick went over to the piano and touched the keys. She was more proud of him than she could ever put into words.
Nick played the song he had worked so hard on and wished that his parents would have been here to see it. But, like always, they were off doing more important things.
"Oh Nick," Greta said when he'd finished. "That was wonderful."
Nick beamed at her. "Really?"
Greta nodded. "You have a true gift for music. Don't ever give that up."
"I wouldn't," Nick promised. "I love it."
"Good," Greta replied. "I should get back to making dinner."
Nick still sat at the piano. He did not know if he would ever have a family of his own one day, but he knew he would never make his children feel unwanted or unloved like his parents did to him.
Nick shook himself out of his reverie, and reached into his pocket. His father had sent the ring back to Katie at the school, but Julie had intercepted it and owled it to him
He still did not know what to do about this whole situation.
He decided to talk it over with Julie when she arrived home. His wife was level headed and could perhaps help him figure everything out.
Nick pocketed the ring and headed back upstairs.
Greta smiled when she saw him. "All right?"
Nick nodded. "Better, thanks."
"Julie just got home," Greta told him. "She's helping Ashley unpack."
"I'll go and see if they need any help," Nick said.
He headed upstairs and poked his head into Ashley's room. "How goes it in here?"
Julie smiled at him. "Good. We're nearly finished."
"Can I have a quick word?" Nick asked.
"Sure," Julie said. She looked over at Ashley. "I'll be back in a moment."
"Okay," Ashley replied, glancing at her father.
Nick waited until Julie had closed Ashley's door. "I've been thinking about that ring," he said.
Julie nodded. "And?"
"I don't' want to deny my daughters things like my parents denied me." Nick said. "Katie really wants this... but I hate how it ties her to my father."
"I'll have my father test it," Julie said.
Nick nodded. "As long as you don't mind her having it."
"I'm not a fan of your parents," Julie admitted. "But, if we find out it's harmless, I guess it would be okay with me."
Nick smiled at her. "Let's hope we're not making a huge mistake."
"I'll owl it to my father after dinner," Julie told him.
"Good," Nick replied, handing her the ring.
Julie pocketed it and reached for his hand. "You okay? I know this dredges up memories you don't really want to think about."
"When it comes to my parents, I never want to think about them," Nick said dryly.
Julie nodded. She was thankful every day for the childhood she had with her parents. She knew without a doubt that they loved her and enjoyed spending time with her. Never in her entire life had she felt unwanted or unloved.
She put her arms around her husband. "Well..." she said. "You got lucky. You married me, and we have two beautiful daughters who have FINALLY stopped fighting, and one crazy dog."
Nick grinned and held her tight.
"And we love you no matter what," Julie reassured him.
"Absolutely," Ashley chimed in from behind them.
Nick smiled at his daughter. "All settled in, sweetheart?"
Ashley grinned. "Yes."
"What's new?" Julie asked her daughter. "Even though I see you every day, I hardly get to talk to you."
"I've been working really hard on my sketches," Ashley said. She decided not to mention anything about James right now.
"Can I have a look later?" Nick asked.
Ashley grinned. "Of course." Katie stepped out of her room and pouted in her parents' direction.
Nick decided not to say anything about the ring just yet. He'd give it back to her once they found out it was clean.
"Katie, did you need some help unpacking?" Julie asked. "Please don't tell me you just dumped the contents of your trunk on the floor..."
"I hung my things up," Katie said.
Julie smiled. "That's my girl. I have good news for you both..."
"We're getting another dog?" Katie brightened.
Julie laughed. "No, your Aunt Lavender wants to fit your dresses for the wedding. She's coming by tomorrow morning."
"Ooooh!" Katie clapped her hands together.
"I can't believe how close it's getting," Ashley said. "Saffy and Andrew's wedding!"
"I know," Julie nodded. "She was a baby when Nick and I got married."
Katie grinned. "You guys have been married a long time then!"
"Yes we have," Julie leaned against her husband.
Ashley giggled. "Dad's pushing what...50 now?" she asked teasingly.
"I thought 60," Katie said with a straight face.
Nick laughed. "You two are very funny. Very, very funny...."
Katie laughed. "Daddy, can I go see Zoë while I'm home? My streaks need a touch up."
"I think that can be arranged," Nick replied.
"Thanks," Katie replied. "They faded so much."
"We wouldn't want that," Nick said tickling her side.
"Something smells really good," Ashley said. "When is dinner going to be ready?
"Soon," Julie replied.
"I'm just going to ring Brittany before we eat," Ashley disappeared back into her room.
Ashley grabbed her mobile phone and dialled in her best friend's number. "Brit?"
"Where did you go when we got off the train?" Brittany asked. "You totally disappeared with James!"
Ashley blushed as she remembered what had happened on the train. In a low voice, she told her friend all that had happened.
"Oh Merlin," Brittany said. "This is so exciting. He is SO dreamy!"
"He is," Ashley admitted. "He wants to see each other during the holiday."
"Are you going to?" Brittany asked. "You have to! We can double!"
"I want to," Ashley replied.
"Ask your parents tonight," Brittany said. "Hopefully they'll say yes."
"Things are kind of tense here right now with Katie and that ring," Ashley said. "I might wait until tomorrow."
"Okay," Brittany replied. "Well I have to go. I'll ring you tonight."
Ashley sat on her bed for a moment wondering how she was going to play this. She remembered how well things had gone down last summer when she and Zander briefly dated. But, she was another year older now.
She hoped her parents would allow her to go since there would be four of them, and not just one on one.
Ashley thought she would ask for Saffron's advice as well. Maybe tomorrow morning during the fitting, she would have some pointers.