Authors' note: We know you all appreciated the dose of H/Hr in the last chapter. You can look forward to more from them as the storylines progress. In this chapter, you get the Easter hols---Ethan trying to make up with Saffy and Will and Frankie's best friend Alicia try to peacefully coexist for Frankie's sake. We hope you like the chapter...please review.
The entire train ride from Hogwarts to King's Cross went by entirely too slow. Although Saffron knew she couldn't use magic on her brother without risking expulsion, she did have some other tricks up her sleeve. She couldn't wait to share them with her mother who she knew was picking her up from the station.
The train stopped and Saffron quickly gathered her bags and went looking for her best friend who had disappeared some time during the train ride. She knew where she was and wasn't surprised to see her best friend joined at the lips with R.J. Weasley. Saffron giggled as she stepped off the train.
"I know you two won't be seeing each other for a few days, but must you carry on like this?" she asked teasingly.
"We're taking advantage of the time we have," R.J. replied. "Don't be jealous just because you passed me up Saf."
Saffron rolled her eyes. "Passed you up? More like gave you up..."
"And I'm glad you did," Alexa laughed.
"So am I," Saffron said giving Alexa a hug. "Give me a call if you get the chance, okay? I'm going to miss you."
"What about me?" R.J. asked.
Saffron waved her hand. "I see you too much as it is."
"Gee thanks," R.J. tugged on one of Saffron's plaits.
"I'll see you guys later," Saffron said. "I know my mum's probably waiting."
Alexa watched her go. "You'll owl me right?" she asked softly. "And I'll find out about coming over on Easter."
"I'll owl you all the time," he promised. "And if your parents don't let you come over, I'll kidnap you myself."
Alexa laughed. "I'll see you soon then." she leaned in and kissed him.
R.J. kissed her back and Saffron who had just retrieved her bags walked by shaking her head. She scanned the crowd for her mother's familiar face.
Ethan was waiting for his sister near the edge of the station and caught sight of her brown hair. "Saffy!" he called. "Over here!"
Saffron heard someone calling her name and she thought for a moment it was her father. The smile on her face fell when she saw it was her brother. Without a word, she pushed her trolley right past him.
"Saffron!" Ethan said, going after her and stopping the trolley. "Come on Saffy don't ignore me."
"R.J.'s over there," Saffron said coldly motioning over her shoulder. "If you want to tell him anything else..."
"Come on," Ethan repeated. "Saffy I'm sorry about what I did okay?"
"Yeah right," Saffron said sarcastically. "I bet you thought it was one big joke, didn't you? Well, it was really hilarious, Ethan! I nearly lost a really good friend over this. But, what does that matter? As long as YOU had your big laugh...."
Ethan felt even worse than he had before as Saffron stalked through the barrier and into King's Cross. He followed her out and ran to catch up. "I'm not letting you run about alone." he said.
"I can hail a taxi," Saffron said boldly. She had no Muggle money on her and she didn't know how she'd pay for it, but she wasn't going to let Ethan in on that.
"Saffron," Ethan was starting to grow annoyed. "Will you bloody grow up and stop acting like you're ten instead of fourteen?"
"No that would be you," Saffron said rounding on him. "You had no right to tell R.J. that I had feelings for him, which I didn't."
"I thought it would be funny. I was wrong and I'm sorry." Ethan apologised.
"You could have written to apologise," Saffron said. "But you didn't."
"Because I wanted to do something better." Ethan said. "It's waiting at home."
Saffron looked at him. "What? What's waiting at home?"
"It's a surprise," Ethan replied.
"A surprise?" Saffron asked softening a bit.
"Yeah," Ethan said. "And the sooner we get back, the sooner you can see what it is."
"Okay," Saffron said and she offered her brother a slight smile as he took control of the trolley. "Thanks Ethan."
"You're welcome Saffy," Ethan grinned at her. "You can never stay mad at me for long anyway can you?"
"This was probably the longest," she said. "But that's probably because I didn't see you every day."
"Miss me?" he joked.
"Not really," she admitted. "But that's because I had thoughts of revenge to keep me company."
Ethan winced. "Revenge?"
Saffron nodded. "You're so lucky I can't do magic outside of Hogwarts."
"I'm counting my blessings, believe me." Ethan replied. Her curiosity was piqued and it seemed the journey back to the house took longer than ever. "All right." Ethan said once they were in the main hallway. He handed her a plain white envelope containing the two tickets and the pass to get back to talk to the players.
Saffron opened the envelope and gasped when she pulled out the two tickets. "P-Puddlemere versus Wimbourne? Ethan? This is the playoff match? How on earth did you...how could you? Are these real?"
"As real as we are Saffy," Ethan said. "Look at the other thing."
Saffron hadn't even noticed there was something else in the envelope. Her hands were shaking when she pulled out the additional passes. "SHUT UP!" she exclaimed. "ETHAN!"
Ethan laughed. "Please tell me I'm forgiven. I practically had to sell my soul to Frankie to get my hands on all this."
Saffron launched herself at her big brother. "You are so forgiven!"
He hugged his little sister back. "Me and my arse are very happy to hear that. You're a pint but you're scary when you're mad."
Saffron laughed. "You are the best big brother in the entire world! We're going to have so much fun! I actually thought I was going to have to listen to the game on the wireless with Dad, but this is so much better!"
"Thanks sweetheart," Harry said coming out of the kitchen with Hermione. "We missed you too."
"Dad!" Saffron said excitedly. "Look what Ethan got me!"
"We saw," Harry swung his daughter around. "And I take it there will be no hexing now?"
"Of course not Daddy!" Saffron said laughing. "Ethan's the bestest big brother in the whole wide world!"
"What a change," Hermione laughed, kissing her daughter's cheek. "It's good to have you home sweetheart."
"I missed you too Mum," Saffron said giving her a hug. "You cut your hair!"
"Oh just a little," Hermione replied. "It was getting bothersome."
"I know what you mean," Saffron said. "That's why I always wear mine in plaits. But yours always looks pretty Mum."
"Thanks sweetheart." Hermione said. "We didn't exactly pass on the best hair genes." she looked pointedly at her husband and son, who both rumpled their messy raven locks.
"I suppose not," Saffron said laughing. "What are you both doing home? I thought you'd be working. That's why I figured Ethan picked me up."
"He wanted to do it," Hermione explained, her arm around Saffron's shoulders. "He wanted to tell you he was sorry."
"All is forgiven," Saffron said smiling at her brother. "And everything worked out how it was supposed to in the end."
"You mean R.J.'s not going to be my brother-in-law?" Ethan asked, not able to resist.
"Hello? He will be when you marry Maddie," Saffron shot back.
"Touché," Ethan grinned, tugging on her plait.
"And I have good news for you too Saffy," Harry said.
"You do?" Saffron brightened. "What is it? I'm getting a new broom for my birthday?"
"I can neither confirm nor deny that," Harry replied. "But you will have me around while you're home if you wanted to get some practise in. I took some time off and so did your Mum so we'd be here during your holiday."
Saffron clapped her hands excitedly. "These will be the best Easter hols ever!"
"And," Ethan said putting an arm around his sister. "Grandpa fully expects you to join him for a round of golf. He told you about him getting cleared to play, didn't he?"
"Mum sent me an owl with a letter from him," Saffron nodded. "I hope the weather stays nice so we can get out there and play. I'm dying to use those new clubs he got me for Christmas."
"He's even convinced me to join the two of you," Harry said. "He told me he was using that as one of his motivations to get better so he could humiliate me again."
Saffron laughed. "You're so awful out there Dad."
"Awful?" Harry asked coming toward her. He tickled her side. "Awful?"
Saffron shrieked with laughter. "Mum! You know I'm just telling the truth right?"
"You do stink Harry," Hermione said dryly.
Harry simply glared at her as he left Saffron go.
"But you're great at everything else," Hermione said quickly.
"That's more like it," Harry grinned.
"So where's Maddie?" Saffron asked. "And Jules, Nick and the girls?"
"Maddie wanted to be here but she's working," Ethan replied.
"The girls are in school," Hermione said. "They don't get out until Thursday. Julie wants to talk to you about something she's considering."
"What?" Saffron was curious.
"You can't say anything to anyone else," Harry warned.
"I can keep a secret better than any of you," Saffron scoffed.
"Okay," Hermione said. "How would you feel about your big sister becoming the new Defence Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts next year?"
"Julie's going to be teaching THAT?" Saffron asked, her eyes wide.
Hermione laughed. "There's nothing definite yet, sweetheart. She's just had a few talks with Dumbledore. She would still have to interview with the school's board of governors."
"That would be so cool," Saffron said.
"She's really excited about it," Hermione said. "And one of her main selling points on the job was getting to see you everyday."
"I'm just that much fun to be around," Saffron grinned.
"You're the baby," Ethan said. "Everyone always wants to be around the baby."
Saffron stuck her tongue out then laughed. "I can't wait for this game!" she squealed. "Ethan this will be so much fun!"
"I think so too," Ethan said giving her a hug. "I hated having you mad at me, Saffy."
"It's kind of fun being mad at you though," Saffron said. "Watching you squirm and all..."
"I didn't squirm," he said defensively. "And how many 14 year olds send howlers?"
Saffron smiled sweetly. "I'm an individual."
"That's one way of putting it," Ethan said dryly.
"Ethan?" Harry asked hoping to avoid another row. "How about you and I bring Saffy's bags upstairs?"
"Sure Dad," Ethan said. "And then I have to get home- Maddie and I are meeting Frankie and Will tonight."
Saffron watched her brother and father go upstairs with her things. "It's so good to be home Mum."
"It's good to have you home." Hermione smoothed a stray hair off her daughter's forehead. "I've missed you so much."
"I'm so happy you'll be home," Saffron said. "I know you've been pretty busy lately."
"Well I'm glad I was able to take a few days out of the office to spend with you." Hermione replied. "And we're going to the Burrow for Easter as well."
"I know," Saffron said with a smile. "I'm going to owl R.J. tonight and tell him about the game. I still can't believe Ethan did this!"
"He really did feel bad," Hermione said as she followed her daughter upstairs to help her unpack. "And he wanted to make it up to you."
"If I tell you something you have to promise not to tell Aunt Luna or Ethan," Saffron said.
"Okay," Hermione replied. "I promise not to say a word to anyone."
Saffron checked to make sure she and her mother were alone. "You know how Ethan told R.J. all that stuff right? Well, one night in the common room, R.J. was teasing me and there was this really...awkward sort of moment between us."
"You had a moment?" Hermione asked. "As in..."
"He almost kissed me," Saffron said. "And the next morning, he did kiss me."
Hermione's eyes widened. "You mean--"
"What Ethan said stirred up a bunch of stuff between us," Saffron said. "And it led to me having my first kiss...ever."
Hermione felt her eyes grow damp. "My baby's had her first kiss." she said softly.
Saffron blushed. "I wanted to tell you about it when it happened, but it wasn't something I felt I could put in a letter. I wished that I could just phone you and talk to you about it."
"Oh sweetheart," Hermione hugged her tightly. "Was it nice? Was R.J. sweet about it?"
"It was really nice," Saffron admitted. "And he was really sweet about it. But he and I we work better as friends. And with Ethan and Maddie being who they are, it would be kind of strange if something happened between R.J. and me, you know?"
"I see where you're coming from." Hermione replied.
"But everything worked out how it was supposed to," Saffron said. "R.J.'s with Alexa now."
"With Alexa?" Hermione was surprised. "Your best friend? Shy quiet Alexa O'Leary?"
Saffron laughed. "The very one. She's fancied him for ages, Mum. I didn't know. When I found out, I sort of made sure they spent some time alone together..."
"So you played matchmaker," Hermione smiled.
"I did," Saffron said smiling proudly. "And they're so happy, Mum. I've never seen Lex or R.J. like this."
"I think that's lovely," Hermione put an arm around her daughter's shoulders.
"The only bad thing now is that Lex seems to think I need to find someone for me," Saffron said with a laugh. "But I don't have time for any stupid boy right now."
"Any stupid boy?" Hermione laughed too. "Your father will be pleased to hear that I'm sure."
Saffron laughed. "Anything to please Daddy."
Harry came in with Saffron's trunk just in time to hear her last words. "What is this about pleasing me?"
"Nothing dear," Hermione said. "Saffy was just catching me up on some things from school."
"Oh," Harry looked between two of his three favourite girls. "Am I missing something?"
"No not at all," Saffron said. "So tell me more about Jules. Is she really going to be teaching at Hogwarts? And are the rumours true about Dumbledore?"
"Rumours?" Harry asked innocently.
Saffron nodded. "Everyone's talking about him retiring soon. There's even this wild rumour about him eloping with Professor McGonagall."
Harry began to laugh. "That's ridiculous," he said with some conviction.
"About as ridiculous as Snape being named as his successor," Saffron said. "Lex and I think Snape started that one himself."
"He probably did, the wanker," Harry replied.
"Harry," Hermione lectured. "I thought we agreed we weren't going to talk badly about Saffron's professors in her presence."
"Isn't there an exception to every rule?" Harry asked. "That would be Snape."
"Harry," Hermione said.
"Come on Mum, he is a wanker," Saffron said. "Whether or not you and Dad say it in front of me, isn't going to change that."
"Saffron Grace I'd like you to watch your language," Hermione warned.
"But--" Saffron started to protest, but she knew when to choose her battles and this certainly wasn't the right time. "Yes ma'am."
"See you're smarter than your brother," Harry said. "He'd try to argue any battle, even if he knows he'd lose it."
"I know when to back down," Saffron said. "Mum gets this look on her face and I know I'd better shut my mouth or face the consequences."
"You are a smart girl," Hermione beamed.
"Just like you," Saffron said.
*** *** ***
Will balanced the pizza boxes on his arm as he dug for his key to Frankie's flat. It could almost be considered their flat- he spent most of his days there and only went home every so often for some different clothes.
He somehow managed to find his key and open the door without dropping the boxes.
"Frankie!" he called out. "I hope you're hungry..."
"We're in here!" she called back from the sitting room.
"We?" he asked, shifting the boxes to his other arm.
"Alicia's here too," Frankie called back.
"Oh," Will rolled his eyes before going to the sitting room.
Alicia was curled up on Frankie's sofa with her shoes kicked off and her hair pulled back in a makeshift bun. She'd made herself at home and from the look she shot Will she obviously saw him as an intruder.
"Hi sweetheart," Frankie said getting to her feet. "Oooh, you went to Mario's! Did you get mine with extra mushrooms?"
"Of course I did," he said as she greeted him with a kiss. "How are you Alicia? I would have gotten you something if I knew you would be here." he didn't especially like the other woman but he wouldn't be rude to her.
"That's okay," Alicia said scrunching up her nose. "Do you have any idea how many calories and fat grams are in one slice of pizza? And don't even get me started on the carbs..."
"Yeah but it's just so good," Frankie grabbed a slice and bit into it ravenously.
"I'll take your word for it," Alicia said with a forced smile.
"So what brings you by Alicia?" Will asked sitting down beside Frankie.
"I haven't seen Frankie around in awhile," Alicia stretched like a cat.
"I've been really busy with work," Frankie said. "We've got that big game this weekend and everything's pretty crazy around the office."
"We'll have to go out dancing again once things calm down for you." Alicia said. "I know Scott said he'd love to hang out sometime soon before he goes back to Prague."
Frankie was glad her mouth was full and she couldn't respond to this.
"He's still in town, is he?" Will asked.
Alicia raised one perfectly arched eyebrow. "I didn't realise you knew him Will."
"I wouldn't say I know him," Will said dryly helping himself to a piece of pizza.
"We ran into him the other night," Frankie said quickly. "Anyways..."
"He always did say you were the best dancing partner he's ever had," Alicia reached for her glass of wine.
"That was a long time ago," Frankie said wishing her friend would shut up about Scott.
"I don't reckon he ever really got over you," Alicia continued.
Will slid an arm around Frankie. "Well he's really got no choice anymore does he?"
"Suppose not," Alicia said quietly.
"Maybe we can get a whole group of people," Frankie suggested. "Like we used to do after we all got out of school. And it would give everyone a chance to get to know Will better." she smiled at her fiancé who relaxed.
"What is it you like to do for fun William?" Alicia asked. "Read?"
"Sure," Will replied. "Or I'll take my nieces and nephews to the park. Or I'll just come here and do something with Frankie."
"We had the best time the other day at the park," Frankie told her friend. "Will and I took the kids out and they all played football. It was the cutest thing, Alicia. You should have seen..."
"Do you think I should change my hair colour?" Alicia interjected.
"Are you a natural blonde?" Will returned.
Alicia glared at him. "Of course I'm a natural blonde!"
"Just curious," Will's eyes twinkled at Frankie when she looked at him.
"As I was saying," Frankie continued. "Mia and Caroline decided to take on the boys all by themselves so it was me and the girls against Will and his nephews...."
"You aren't pregnant are you?" Alicia asked. "You always said you were never going to have any snot nosed brats of your own."
Frankie stared at her friend. "No, Alicia. I'm not, but thank you for asking. And I never said anything like that..."
"You said that just a few months ago," Alicia replied.
"Well things change," Frankie said smiling at Will. "And we hope to someday have a family of our own."
Alicia laughed. "I certainly hope you don't expect me to baby sit."
"We wouldn't dream of it," Will said. "We wouldn't want you break a nail or anything."
"Excuse me?" Alicia glared at him.
"We just wouldn't want to put you out," Frankie said hastily. She wanted Will and Alicia to like each other and from the way this was going, that seemed very unlikely.
Will reached for another slice of pizza. "Do you want anything to drink?" he asked Frankie.
"Could you get me another glass of wine?" Frankie asked.
"Sure," Will gave her a kiss. "Alicia?"
"Oh," Alicia said handing him her glass. "Yes please."
"I'll be right back," he replied.
"I know you two are different," Frankie said once he was in the kitchen. "But Lee, please try and get along with him. I'm going to marry him."
"It's your funeral," Alicia said keeping her voice low. "Come on Franks. He's so bor-ing! He writes textbooks!"
"He loves me," Frankie replied quietly. "And I love him. And he may not be as party crazy as we all are but that's one of the things I like about him."
"But he's changing you," Alicia pouted. "You stay in all the time now. And you're hanging out with that other girl all the time."
"Maddie?" Frankie asked. "I helped her decorate her flat. And she's a close family friend." she leaned forward. "Alicia, you're hard to get a hold of half the time too you know."
"You went dress shopping with her and your sisters," Alicia continued. "And I'm supposed to be your best friend. I love your sisters, Franks, but they have no sense of fashion."
"They have plenty," Frankie narrowed her eyes. "Chiaki looks gorgeous no matter what she's in."
"Well she can kiss her figure goodbye," Alicia said. "And don't even get me started on Allison..."
Frankie crossed her arms. "Don't you even think about saying anything bad about my family." she said coolly.
"I wasn't going to say anything bad about them," Alicia said defensively. "They're both lovely girls."
"Let's keep it that way," Frankie's eyes were flashing dangerously as Will came back in the room.
"I spoke with Ethan today," Will said handing the girls their glasses. "He told me about what you did for him with Saffron. That's really great Frankie."
"He would have been in the doghouse otherwise," Frankie's demeanour lightened. "She was so angry at him."
"Apparently she's very happy with him at the moment," Will said. "I can't wait to meet this Saffron. She seems like quite the spitfire."
"She's funny as hell," Frankie said, biting into another cheesy slice of pizza. "And really smart too. She could probably give you a run for your money," she grinned at Will and leaned into his side.
"Another child?" Alicia asked examining her nails. "Frankie, why don't you just become a teacher?"
"She's fourteen Alicia," Frankie rolled her eyes. "That's hardly a child."
"Do you still have that Mocha polish?" Alicia asked.
"I think I do somewhere," Frankie said. "Let me check the loo."
"Thanks," Alicia said. "And can you bring a nail file, too? I cannot believe how bad my nails are. I haven't had them done in three days."
"Sure," Frankie said. "Be right back."
Will took a swig of his beer as he stared at Alicia thinking of something to say that wasn't rude or impolite. He wanted to make an effort for Frankie.
"So are you dating anyone?" Will asked. "Perhaps we could double..."
"I don't get serious," Alicia said. "Relationships are too much trouble."
"Sometimes it can be worth it," Will said. "When you find the right person."
Alicia shrugged. "Then I guess I've found about ten of the right person."
Will bit back a sarcastic remark when he saw Frankie come back into the room.
"I didn't have anymore of the Mocha, but this is Coffee Bean," Frankie said handing the bottle to her friend.
"Coffee bean?" Will asked amused. "Mocha? Where do they get these colours from?"
"They're shades of brown William," Alicia said disdainfully.
"Oh," Will said with a forced smile. "Of course they are."
"They're not much different, this one's just a touch darker," Frankie said as Alicia began to coat the polish over her nails.
Will picked up a piece of pizza and laughed when Frankie plucked one of the pepperonis off and stuffed it in her mouth. "I thought you only liked mushrooms."
"I like pepperoni sometimes," she said, picking off another piece and holding it out to him.
Will opened his mouth but Frankie pulled it away at the last second and popped it into her mouth. "Francesca!"
"Sorry," she laughed. "Here."
"Thank you," he said opening his mouth again.
"Aren't you two sweet?" Alicia commented before blowing on her nails. "I'm bored."
Frankie laughed as Will pulled the pepperoni from her fingers. "Well if I had a telly we could watch a movie."
"You could come out with me," Alicia said excitedly. "We haven't gone out in ages!"
"I've got an early meeting tomorrow," Frankie replied.
"Never stopped you before," Alicia said. "Come Franks. We'll have such a laugh!'
"I'm going to stay in tonight Lee." Frankie said. "Will's just gotten back from a research trip and we haven't gotten to spend a lot of time together either."
"Fine," Alicia grumbled. "I bet if Maggie wanted to do something you'd go with her..."
"Her name's Maddie actually," Will corrected.
"Fine, Maddie," Alicia rolled her eyes. "Since you seem to like her so much more these days--"
"That's not true and you know it," Frankie said. "Lee, I'm allowed to have other friends, aren't I?"
"You've just gotten boring since you got engaged," Alicia said point blank.
"I'm the same person I've always been," Frankie argued.
"Sure," Alicia said. "Well I'm going to go have some fun somewhere. You two sit and enjoy your pre married life."
"Maybe we can meet for lunch sometime next week," Frankie offered.
"Sure if you're not too busy with your new best friend," Alicia sniffed.
"You'd like Maddie if you gave her the chance," Frankie said. "She's really sweet and she and Ethan were there for me when I really needed them, Lee."
"Well bring her out sometime," Alicia said without conviction. "We'll see if she fits in with the group." she gazed at Will, barely masking her scorn.
"Yeah," Frankie said giving her friend a hug. "See you Lee."
"Bye Franks," Alicia said. "Will."
"That went well," Frankie said after she shut the door behind Alicia.
"She's a complete airhead," Will replied.
"Will," Frankie said with a sigh. "She's my best friend."
"And she hates me," Will pointed out.
"She just doesn't know you," Frankie said. "I feel like I'm right in the middle. It's not fair. She hates it when I spend time with you or when we hang out with Ethan and Maddie."
Will reached for her. "I'm sorry," he said. "I don't want you to feel like you have to choose between me and your friends."
"You're not," she said. "It's just Alicia was really cross with me for going dress shopping without her. If I waited for her, I'd have been 80 years old. She's so flighty."
"I'm not going to say a word about that," Will kissed the top of her head.
"Good," she said leaning against him. "Let's go finish that pizza. I don't care how many fat grams or calories there are. We'll just work them off later."
Will kissed her lips hungrily. "Are you thinking the same thing I am Longbottom?"
"You know very well that I am," she said grinning at him.
"Well if say I was to pick up an extra large pizza next time does that mean we'd have these activities for a longer period of time?" he asked slyly.
Frankie laughed. "That sounds about right."
"I'll have to keep that in mind," he said huskily.
"I'm not boring am I?" she asked him as they sat back down. "I'm still as much fun as I ever was."
"You were never boring to me," Will said honestly. "This is going to sound corny as hell but I've always thought you light up a room."
Frankie beamed at him. "Will! That's so sweet!"
He grinned. "You're very noticeable." he said, leaning in. "I've had my eye on you for a long time now..."
"Have you?" Frankie asked with a giggle. "I've had my eye on you too."
"Good thing I managed to snag you up then," Will grinned, leaning closer.
"You know," Frankie said softly. "We could always finish the pizza afterwards..."
"We do know magic," Will agreed. "We can keep it warm while we--"
Frankie cut him off with a kiss. "You know I've always loved cold pizza."
"Well I'll put a warming charm on mine then," Will said, kissing her again.
"William!" Frankie chastised. "Are you more concerned with keeping your pizza warm? Or would you rather...."
"I'll tell you what I'd rather do right now," Will said, pressing his mouth to hers. "And it doesn't involve eating... or moving off this sofa."
"Mmm," Frankie said forgetting all about pizza, Alicia and her job. None of that mattered right now.
*** *** ***
Easter was always a big deal around the Burrow and Molly spent most of the week leading up to the big event planning out her menu. She never settled on a head count because someone always ended up bringing a guest or two and threw everything out of whack. This year promised to be quite the big event with the Potter and Longbottom families joining in on the festivities. Arthur currently had all the kids outside with Fred and George leading them on an Easter Egg hunt.
Jon was eyeing the chocolate chip biscuits that had been taunting him all afternoon. Nana had shooed him and Josh both every time they came anywhere near the platter.
"Nana," Jon said pulling his most charming face. "Caroline wants a biscuit."
Molly shook her head. "I already gave Caroline a biscuit, Jon. And Emma, too. You would get a lot further if you'd just ask instead of trying this subterfuge."
"Can I have a biscuit Nana?" Jon asked, giving her his most innocent face.
"No," Molly answered. "You'll spoil your dinner. And not all of our guests are here yet, Jonathan."
"Just one?" Jon pleaded.
Molly sighed. "Okay, but just one. And don't tell your brother."
"I won't," Jon said, giving his grandmother a kiss. "And I definitely won't tell Dad."
"Now get out of this kitchen and let me finish cooking," Molly said shooing him.
Maddie grinned at her brother as he came back into the sitting room. "You've got a bit of chocolate on your lip, Jon."
"Thanks Mad Dog," Jon wiped off his face. "Where's Ethan?"
"He's coming later with his family," Maddie explained. "They went to church with his grandparents."
"How do you like living with him?" Jon asked, sitting next to her.
"I love it," she answered as a dreamy expression came over her face. "It's better than I imagined it could be..."
"He's still treating you right?" Jon asked, half serious.
"Yes," she said laughing. "No need to get all big brothery on me Jon."
"You're my baby sister," Jon grinned at her. "Even when you get old, wrinkly and ugly you'll still be my baby sister."
Maddie elbowed him. "Thanks Jon."
"Daddy!" Caroline called out excitedly running into the room. "I found the mostest!" She dumped her basket of eggs on the carpet.
Emma toddled in with Allison and held her hands out to Maddie. "Mad!"
"Hi Emma," Maddie grinned and picked her up. "How's my little angel today?"
"Sweepy," she replied softly resting her head on Maddie's shoulder.
Josh came downstairs looking very cross. "Will someone please tell R.J. to get out of the bloody bathroom? He's been in there since we got here. I have to---"
"He's getting ready for Alexa," Jon grinned.
"That's right," Josh said momentarily forgetting he had to go to the bathroom. "The girlfriend."
"Apparently this one's a big deal too," Jon said. "So you know what this means right?"
"You're both going to be on your best behaviour?" Maddie interjected.
Both Jon and Josh gave her identical devilish grins.
"Don't give him a hard time," Maddie warned them. "He really fancies her. Promise me you won't---"
"Something smells good," R.J. said coming downstairs.
"It must be Alexa's perfume," Jon cracked; ready to start taking the Mickey out of his brother.
"Is she here?" R.J. asked looking around for her.
Josh clapped his brother on the back. "Take it easy lover boy. She's not here yet." With a wink at Jon, he ran upstairs to the loo.
"So R.J.," Jon said. "Tell us more about this girl..."
R.J. wasn't about to give his brothers any ammunition. He could still remember how bad they teased him about Juliet last summer in Brighton.
"Look at all my eggs, Uncle R.J.," Caroline said motioning for him to join her on the carpet.
"Those are great Caroline," R.J. ignored Jon who was already cackling. "You look like you got the most!"
"I did," Caroline said proudly. "Grandpa said we were going to hunt again once Katie and Ashley get here."
"That sounds like a lot of fun," R.J. grinned at his young niece.
Josh came back downstairs and he sat down beside Maddie who shot him a look.
"So she's coming with Saffy?" Josh asked his younger brother.
"Yes," R.J. said rolling his eyes. "I've told you that already Josh."
Josh grinned as his rather pregnant wife came into the room. She was six months along but quite large- and they'd be announcing to the family that day why Lizzy was so big. "Are you counting down the minutes R.J.? Waiting to pull her into a dark corner for a snog?"
"Yeah, want us to go dig out some of the mistletoe from Christmas so you have an excuse?" Jon didn't miss a beat.
R.J. glared at his two brothers. "If you two embarrass me..."
"Would we do that?" Jon and Josh chorused.
"In a heartbeat," R.J. grumbled.
"I'll make sure they behave R.J.," Maddie told him.
"If they don't I'll have Saf send them Howlers," R.J. glared at his brothers.
"Oooooh," Josh said shuddering.
"Ease up on your brother," Ron said coming into the room with Luna.
"Awwww Dad," Jon grumbled. "You're ruining our fun."
Luna sat down with her son and Caroline on the floor. "You nervous R.J.?"
"No," R.J. said unconvincingly. "It's just Lex."
"I imagine she's pretty nervous," Luna said smiling reassuringly at him. "It's quite a lot of people to meet at one time."
"Yeah at least she knows Saf though," R.J. replied, running his fingers through his hair. "She's kind of shy so I hope the wanker twins won't embarrass her."
"That's a bad word Uncle R.J.." Caroline looked up at him.
"I'm sorry Caroline," R.J. said mussing her hair. "I shouldn't have said it."
"Mummy tells Daddy when he says bad words that she's going to wash his mouth out with soap," Caroline said busily placing her eggs back in her pink basket.
"Your daddy must eat a lot of soap then," R.J. said.
"Daddy," Caroline called. "Does Mummy really make you eat soap when you say bad words?"
"Yes," Jon said grinning at Allison. "All the time."
R.J. snorted and rolled his eyes. "Somehow I'm guessing he doesn't mean soap."
"Allie," Maddie said gingerly getting to her feet so she wouldn't wake Emma. "I think I'll go put her down if that's okay?"
"Sure," Allison said. "Thanks Maddie."
"Be right back," Maddie said. She looked over her shoulder at her twin brothers. "If she gets here before I get back, behave."
"Sure Mad Dog," Jon said. "Whatever you say."
Maddie just shook her head as she took baby Emma upstairs.
"So will they be arriving by Floo or front door?" Josh asked. "That way you know what way to run when they arrive."
"They're coming by portkey," R.J. snapped.
"Ronnie Jr what's with the hostility?" Jon asked. "We just want to know more about the girl that's got you all hot and bothered."
"I am not all hot and bothered Jon!" R.J. said angrily getting to his feet.
The doorbell rang and the colour drained from R.J.'s face.
"She's here!" Jon teased as Josh let out a cooing sort of howl.
"Boys," Luna warned.
Just outside the door Alexa tried to calm her nerves and she gripped the basket in her hands.
"Breathe Lex," Saffron said smiling at her friend. "It's going to be okay."
"I'm all nerved up about his brothers," Alexa whispered. "What if they make R.J. angry like you said they did last year and he doesn't want to go out anymore?"
"They're harmless," Saffron told her. "And I told you, if they tease you it means they like you."
"If they give you any trouble you just let me know," Ethan told her. "I'll rough them up for you."
"Thanks Ethan," Alexa smiled at him.
"Since when do you ring the doorbell?" Ron asked opening the door. "It's my favourite family aside from my own!"
"Hi Uncle Ron!" Saffron said giving him a hug. "Happy Easter!"
"Happy Easter Saffy," Ron kissed her cheek. "You got taller!"
"Or you could be shrinking," Saffron teased.
Harry laughed. "That'll be the day," he shook hands with his best friend.
"And who's this?" Ron asked his gaze falling on the girl standing beside Hermione and looking terrified.
"This is Alexa O'Leary," Hermione said putting her hand on the girl's shoulder.
"Ah," Ron smiled at her. "It's lovely to meet you Alexa. R.J.'s been waiting for you to arrive all morning."
Alexa smiled. "Thank you so much for asking me over, Mr. Weasley."
Her hands were shaking as she handed him the basket. "My mum owns a bakery. She thought it would be nice if she sent over some of her fudge."
"I already like your mum," Ron grinned. "Chocolate in this house is like gold."
"Let them inside Ron," Luna said coming up behind him.
Ron stepped aside, already rooting through the large basket of fudge. "I'm going to hide this..." he said, heading for his old bedroom.
Luna laughed and turned her attention to Alexa. "R.J.'s told us so much about you, Alexa. We feel like we know you already."
"He's talked a lot about you both as well," Alexa said shyly, staying close to Saffron.
"We're really glad you could join us today," Luna said. "R.J.'s in the sitting room with his brothers and niece."
"Okay," Alexa said nervously. "I'm um... I'll go in and say hi then."
"I'll go with you," Saffron said taking her friend's hand. "Come on, Lex. It's going to be okay."
"I know," Alexa replied, her stomach filled with butterflies. She was always nervous when meeting new people and this was absolutely no exception.
"Hi everyone!" Saffron said as she and Alexa entered the sitting room.
"Hey Saf," R.J. got up. "Hi Lex." he grinned at her, turning his back on his brothers. "I'm glad you're here."
"Me too," she said smiling up at him. "I brought some fudge from my mum's shop, but your dad took it."
"I know his hiding spots," R.J. replied. "I'll nick some of it later on." he took her hand. "Let me introduce you to everyone, except those two." he pointed at his twin brothers who wore innocent smiles on their faces.
"Okay," Alexa said feeling a little more relaxed.
"This is the sweetest member of our family," R.J. said motioning to Caroline. "Along with her little sister Emma who is kipping at the moment. Alexa, meet Caroline."
"Hello," Caroline smiled up at her. "You have pretty hair!"
"Thank you," Alexa said grinning at her. She looked at the little girl's basket. "Did you find all of those?"
"Outside in the back," the girl nodded. "I'm a good finder!"
"I can see that," Alexa said.
"These two ladies here are my sisters-in-law," R.J. said bringing Alexa over to the sofa. "This is Caroline's mum Allie. And this is Lizzy, who is soon to be a mum."
"It's lovely to meet you both," Alexa shook both their hands.
"And now that we've met everyone in here," R.J. started to say.
"Hold on," Josh said getting to his feet. "Aren't you forgetting your older brothers?"
"I think that's everyone," R.J. ignored Josh.
"Hello Alexa," Jon said extending his hand to the girl. "I'm Jon and this is Josh."
"Hello," Alexa said, feeling nervous again. "It's nice to meet you both."
"Why don't you give her a tour of the house?" Josh suggested. "You know find a nice corner and-"
"Come on Lex," R.J. said glaring at Josh. "I want you to meet my Nana."
"Josh be nice," Lizzy gave him a warning look.
"I'm getting a vision," Maddie teased, coming into the room. "Of two identical redheads sleeping on sofas tonight if they don't behave."
"I think that's a very distinct possibility," Allison said looking at Jon. "Jon, you do remember how you felt when you came over to my house for dinner when we were dating, don't you?"
"Yeah," Jon nodded. "What of it?"
"You remember how nervous you were?" Allison asked. "How you wanted to make a good impression."
"How he was afraid Uncle Neville was going to AK him," R.J. chimed in glad to know the females in his family were on his side.
"Exactly," Allison narrowed her eyes at her husband. "You just remember that Jonathan."
"And you too Joshua," Lizzy said glaring at him. "You two seem to forget that there was a time when you were going through this exact same thing..."
"It's really okay," Alexa said blushing.
R.J. smiled. "Come on. Nana's in the kitchen and she really wants to meet you." he took her hand.
"Okay," Alexa said allowing him to lead her to the kitchen.
"I'm glad you're here," R.J. said. "I'm glad your parents let you come for today."
"Me too," she said. "I hope your dad likes my mum's fudge."
R.J. laughed. "I hope he doesn't eat it all." he replied. "And if I tell my brothers about it, I know for sure he won't get another bite."
"You weren't kidding about them giving you a hard time," Alexa said with a laugh.
"That was tame," R.J. said. "They were really bad before you arrived."
"Sorry I missed it," she joked. It really meant a lot to her that he wanted her to meet his family and although she was nervous, she was finding it wasn't nearly as bad as she'd expected.
"Ronald Junior," two pretty girls echoed coming out of the kitchen right before he and Alexa walked in.
"Not you two too," R.J. said shooting his twin sisters a pleading look.
"Oh shush R.J., we're not going to embarrass you in front of your girlfriend." one of them with stylishly bobbed red hair smiled. "I'm Drew- R.J.'s older sister."
"And I'm Darla," the other one said. "His other older sister."
"It's nice to meet you both," Alexa said smiling warmly at them.
"They decided to grace us with their presence today," R.J. teased. "Drew and Darla have pretty much disowned us..."
"We're just busy," Drew said. "We run a wedding planning business." she told the younger girl.
"It does keep us rather busy," Darla added. "We normally live in Ireland but we spend a good part of the year in the Caribbean."
"I've always wanted to go there," Alexa said wistfully.
Molly poked her head out of the kitchen. "R.J. is your friend here?"
"She's here," R.J. said taking Alexa's hand again. Drew and Darla smiled at Alexa before heading toward the sitting room.
"R.J. told us you were pretty," Molly said smiling at her. "But he hardly did you justice, Alexa."
Alexa blushed. "Thank you," she said shyly.
"And we've heard all about you from Saffron," Molly said grinning at her. "And once my husband finds out your family is Muggles, he'll hardly give you one moment of peace."
"Grandpa loves Muggles," R.J. explained to Alexa.
"I'd be happy to tell him anything he wants to know," she volunteered.
"Famous last words," Molly said handing Alexa plate of biscuits. "Eat up child."
"Can I have some too Nana?" R.J. asked.
"You'll spoil your dinner," Molly replied.
"But you let Lexie--" R.J. started to protest.
"I'll only have a few," Alexa said. "I have a bit of a small stomach." she winked at R.J. before slipping a few of the biscuits into her pocket.
R.J. beamed at her and when Molly wasn't looking, he pecked Alexa on the cheek.
"Come on," he said. "I'll show you the garden out back. You've got to see the pond." he looked at his grandmother. "Nana when's dinner?"
"About half an hour," Molly said. "You two have fun and if you see your grandfather please tell him I need his help."
"We will," R.J. wove their fingers together as he pulled his girlfriend out the back door.
Alexa started to say something but R.J. stopped her by pulling her into a kiss the moment they back door shut.
"I've been..." he kissed her again. "Waiting for that since we were on the train..."
"Me too," Alexa admitted putting her arms around his neck. "I've missed you."
R.J. ran his fingers through her long red curls. "I missed you too Lex."
"R.J.?" Alexa asked. "What if someone sees?"
"Let's go by the pond," R.J. said. "No one will be over there."
"Okay," she said smiling at him.
R.J. led her through the woods towards the pond which had been one of his favourite places at the Burrow while growing up. "Wait until you see this place in the summer." he said. "It's the best swimming hole."
Alexa felt her heart swell at the mention of her coming back here during the summer. It reminded her of something else. "Um R.J.?"
"What?" he asked.
"About this summer," she began feeling her cheeks go red. "Saffy sort of asked if I'd---well, if I'd want to come with you and your families to Brighton."
"You're coming to Brighton?" he grinned.
"I asked my parents," Alexa said. "And they said I could go. That's okay isn't it?"
"That's fantastic," he said. "You'll love Brighton. The beach there is great and we have a boat too."
"Saffy used to owl me and tell me how much fun you had," Alexa said. "She was always trying to get me to go..."
"And so that means I had a big part in your wanting to go this year?" R.J. teased, leaning in.
"Well," Alexa said. "It really was the boat that did it for me."
R.J. laughed. "Tease."
Alexa kissed him softly. "Did you tell your dad about the scout?" she asked when they pulled apart. "The one that's been coming to see you play?"
"Yeah," R.J. said. "He was almost as excited as me."
"The bloke's been to every match since Christmas," Alexa said grinning at him. "I think it's safe to say what you'll be doing after you graduate."
"I hope so," R.J. replied. "It's what I've planned on doing ever since I was a kid."
"What about your photographs?" Alexa asked remembering how he'd shown her the portfolio he'd assembled. "You're quite good at that too."
"It's a good fallback," R.J. said. "Maybe you'll pose for me sometime."
Alexa blushed. "I hate the way I look in photographs, especially with my braces!"
"You look good with braces," R.J. said. "I'm going to have to fight the blokes away once you get them off."
"Not hardly," she said nudging him.
"I have it on good authority that there are a few Gryffindor guys who think you're quite cute." R.J. grinned as she blushed.
"First years who don't know any better," she said laughing.
"Try sixth years," he replied.
"I only care about one sixth year," she said resting her head on his shoulder.
"As long as his initials are RW..." R.J. said softly. "Then that's all I need to hear."
"They are," she said. "And do you want to know something else? He makes me so happy."
R.J. grinned. "I bet I know a way he can make you happier."
"I don't see how that's possible," she said looking up at him.
"Let me try it," he whispered, his lips barely brushing hers.
"That's a really nice way to start," she whispered as he pulled her closer.
He kissed her hard, tasting her mouth before dragging his lips down her neck.
Alexa closed her eyes enjoying how this felt. "R.J...."
"You're better than that fudge you brought," R.J. said.
"You haven't tasted any of it yet," Alexa pointed out.
"And I don't need to," R.J. kissed her again.
Alexa felt light-headed as she felt herself relaxing in his warm embrace. She never wanted to stop kissing him.
"Damn Lex..." R.J. said several minutes later when they parted.
"Wow," was all Alexa could say.
"Yeah," he replied tucking her hair behind her ear. "We um... we should probably get back for dinner."
Alexa nodded and they started walking back toward the house. "So do you think they like me?"
"Of course they do," R.J. assured her. "They'll like you even more when they get to know you."
Alexa grinned. "You know my parents want to meet you too. Of course, I don't have quite as large a family."
"They probably want to meet me before we all go to Brighton," R.J. said.
"They do," Alexa said.
"Understandable," R.J. said. "Maybe we'll try and work something out before we go back to school; otherwise we'll go right after we get back for summer hols."
"I'd like that," Alexa said giving him one last kiss before they went back inside the Burrow.
Saffron was working on her older sister. "Are you taking the job or not Jules? Come on, you can tell me."
"What job is this?" R.J. asked.
"My sister might teach DADA next year!" Saffron said excitedly.
"That's fantastic!" R.J. said grinning at Julie. "Maybe you'll manage to break the mould and stay more than one year..."
"I never said I was taking it," Julie glared at her little sister. "Saffy you weren't supposed to say anything!"
"I couldn't help it!" Saffy said beaming at her. "Come on, Jules. You've spoken to Dumbledore about 10 times in the past week. Dad told me..."
"He wasn't supposed to say anything either," Julie replied. "And the fact of the matter is I don't know yet. There are some things that have to be worked out before I would take this job."
"He didn't say anything to me," Saffron explained. "I might have overheard him talking to Mum."
"Come on Jules," R.J. urged. "You have to take it!"
"I'm not passing you on default," Julie smiled at R.J..
"My DADA marks are top notch," R.J. said defensively.
"Only with my help," Saffron snorted.
"I did manage to make it through two years at Hogwarts without you Saf," R.J. said tugging on her plaits.
"Just barely," she retorted with a grin at Alexa. "What were you two doing out there?"
"We just took a walk," Alexa said sharing a smile with R.J.. "He showed me the pond."
"Ah ha," Saffron laughed. "So that means you two snogged."
Alexa turned red. "Saffy!"
"Did ickle Ronniekins Junior get a snog?" Josh asked his ears perking up at this. "Jon mate! Come here!"
"Oh man," R.J. glared at Saffron. "You had to open your bloody mouth!"
Saffron looked apologetically at him. "I didn't know he could hear!"
"Everyone!" Lizzy called out, deciding to save both her brother-in-law and Alexa from embarrassment but to also give everyone the good news. "Josh and I have an announcement to make!"
"You're going to tell them now?" Josh asked. "But I wanted to take the Mickey out of R.J. for awhile!"
"Would you rather share our good news or be an arse to your brother?" Lizzy asked him.
"Do you really need to ask us that Liz?" Jon asked with a grin.
"Can't we do both?" Josh asked.
"Everyone gather around," Lizzy said shaking her head at her husband. "Come on!"
"What's going on?" Ron asked, hiding several of his mother's biscuits behind his back.
"Well," Lizzy said taking Josh's hand. "Josh and I found out some good news recently..."
"Did you find out the sex of the baby?" Hermione asked.
"You could say that," Lizzy said grinning. "We're having a boy...."
Everyone started to offer their congratulations but Lizzy held them off. "And a boy..."
"And a girl," Josh finished with a grin. "Lizzy and I are having triplets!"
"Triplets?" Luna asked. "Oh Joshua!"
Josh grinned. "When I do things I do them right!"
"You didn't do it alone," Jon said slapping his brother on the back. "Congratulations mate."
"Thanks," Josh grinned broadly at his twin.
Allison hugged her best friend as best she could. "Liz! You didn't tell me!"
"Surprise," Lizzy laughed. "I'm sorry Allie. But we really wanted to tell everyone all at once."
"No need to apologise," Allison said grinning at her. "This is fantastic news!"
"That poor little girl with two brothers," Drew said laughing as she gave Josh a hug.
"She'll have Caroline and Emma as her allies," Jon grinned. "Whereas I'm swarming in Estrogen Josh and his boys will have Lizzy and your daughter outnumbered."
"What's Daddy talking about Mummy?" Caroline asked Allison.
"Sweetheart you know how we told you Aunt Lizzy was going to have a baby?" Allison asked.
Caroline nodded.
"Well she's going to have two little boys, and one little girl like you and Emma." Allison smoothed back a stray wisp of Caroline's hair.
"Three babies?" Caroline asked in disbelief. "All at one time?"
"All at once," Allison laughed.
"That's good that they'll have each other in there and won't be lonely," Caroline said matter-of-factly pointing at Lizzy's stomach. .
"That's right Caroline," Lizzy laughed. "You just put a great perspective on things."
"I'm going to have to start on three blankets," Molly said wiping at her eyes. "There's not much time!"
"I'll help you," Allison offered. "I'd love to learn how to knit."
"I already know how," Saffron said. "So I can help too if you want."
"Congratulations Healer Weasley," Alexa said approaching Lizzy.
"You can call me Lizzy," she said smiling at the girl. "No need to be so formal."
"Okay," Alexa said. "I'm sorry- my parents always taught me to be respectful and--"
Lizzy shook her head. "No, Alexa. I wasn't trying to....my friends call me Lizzy. That's why I said you can call me that."
"I'm sorry," Alexa tucked her hair behind her ears. She hated it that she was so shy around people she didn't know.
"No need to apologise," Lizzy said reassuringly. She leaned in so no one else could hear. "I know its a little nerve wracking to be thrown in with this lot all at once, but you're doing just fine."
"Thanks," Alexa felt more at ease with the pretty blonde.
"And if anyone gives you any trouble, you just let me or Allie know," Lizzy said winking at her. "We'll give them what for."
"Ethan's already offered to take care of that," Alexa said. "And Saffy offered to send Howlers since we can't do magic outside of school."
Lizzy laughed. "It's official then. You're one of us."
"What are you two talking about?" R.J. joined them. "How to take down those prats I have for brothers?"
"Yes," Lizzy said. "Any ideas?"
"Tar and feathers?" R.J. offered.
"Next time Jon gives you a hard time," Lizzy said motioning for Alexa and R.J. to come closer. "Call him 'Boo Bear'. I think that'll shut him up."
R.J. howled with laughter. "Where'd you hear that?"
"I can't reveal my sources," Lizzy said winking at the two teenagers, "and if anyone asks you didn't hear it from me. And as for Josh, just ask him about that poetry he used to write..."
"Lizzy you're the best," R.J. looked like he won the lottery. "I'm suddenly really looking forward to the rest of today..."