Authors' note: This chapter brings another flashback----for Harry and Hermione. You will also get to see some of the original characters' children when they were younger (especially Josh who was in the midst of his crush on Julie). And the Hogwarts crew are back for more drama that takes place on the Quidditch pitch. Enjoy!
That month marked Hermione's 15th anniversary as the Minister for Magic, and she was currently giving an interview to a reporter who was running a weeklong feature on her.
"I guess what I'm most proud of is the fact that I've been able to fulfil all my campaign promises I made." Hermione said pensively. "And it's not always been easy, but I've managed to make time for my family, which is my top priority no matter what."
"Your children have had to grow up in a bit of a fishbowl being the children of The Boy Who Lived," the reporter said. "And then they had to deal with being the children of the Minister for Magic. They all seem to be well-adjusted and normal. How did you do it?"
"I'm really not sure," Hermione confessed with a laugh. "Our youngest, Saffron, is still in school. Ethan's an Auror and Julie is now teaching at Hogwarts. I guess Harry and I just tried to instil the best teachings we could about keeping a level head- although we always haven't- and we tried to teach them to be humble despite the fact that Harry and I were able to provide well for all three of them."
"Fifteen years ago, you took office," the reporter said. "Do you remember that night?"
"Quite well," Hermione nodded. "I was very nervous, being at the Inauguration Ball, but I was happy to have my family and friends with me..."
***
"Ethan!" Julie called out after her little brother. "Come on! I have to help get you ready for mum's party! Come back here you little monster!"
"You have to catch me!" Ethan laughed mischievously.
"Mum!" Julie yelled out. "He won't keep still!"
"Ethan James," Harry said, pulling his black dress robes on over his shirt and trousers. "You let your sister help you get ready right now."
"I don't want to go Dad!" Ethan said running past his father. "I want to stay here!"
"This is your mother's big night," Harry said, catching his son and giving him a stern look.
"Mummy's going to be the Big Dog," Ethan said squirming. "Uncle Ron said she was going to be large and in charge."
Harry was unable to keep from grinning. "He called your mum a big dog?"
Ethan nodded. "Just like she is at home."
"Always remember that the woman is in charge," Harry said. "And right now that's your sister. So let her help you get dressed."
Julie took her brother from her father. "And let's be quick about it Little Man. I still have to get ready too."
"Fine," Ethan grumbled. "I hate wearing dress robes."
"Thanks Jules," Harry said to his daughter.
"No problem Dad," Julie said smiling at him. "How's Mum doing?"
"She's pretty nervous," Harry replied. "That's why I want your brother to get himself ready so she's not stressed out any more."
"Wait until you see her in her ball gown," Julie said. "It's amazing, Dad. Aunt Lavender did such a great job."
"That's about the one good thing your aunt does," Harry quipped.
"That and getting married," Julie said laughing. "Do you think she's ever going to settle down, Dad?"
Harry snorted. "Probably not."
"JULIE!" Ethan bellowed from his room. "HELP!"
"Duty calls," Julie said. "Coming Ethan!"
In the bedroom, Hermione slid into her periwinkle blue ball gown. "Harry! I need some help..."
"What is it?" Harry asked, knocking before poking his head in the door.
"Could you help zip me up?" she asked looking over her shoulder at him. "Please?"
"Long as you promise me I can take you out of this dress later," Harry replied, eyeing her up and down lustily.
"You don't even have to ask," she said huskily. Her breath caught in her throat as Harry slowly zipped up her dress. "You can't mess up my hair, Harry. Lavender would murder you."
"I won't," Harry pressed a kiss to the back of her neck.
"I still can't believe this is happening," Hermione said softly. "It's real, isn't it? I'm not dreaming?"
"Shall I pinch you?" Harry asked mischievously. "My wife, the Minister for Magic..."
Hermione smiled. "The only bad thing is having to sell this place. It's been our home for so long."
"I know," Harry looked around their bedroom. "But look at the place we'll be moving into. It's incredible."
"But it's so cold and dark," Hermione said. "And huge. We'll need a map to get around the place."
"We'll get used to it," Harry assured her as she put on some jewellery. "And in no time it'll be just as much a home as this place."
"Try telling Julie that," Hermione said. "She's still upset about moving."
"Jules is a big girl," Harry replied. "I'm sure soon enough she'll be looking for her own place."
"I don't like to think about that," Hermione said. "To me she's that same little girl who used to love to help you make pasketti."
Harry laughed. "Too bad she didn't inherit your cooking skills."
"Too bad," Hermione said turning around and getting her first proper look at her husband. "Harry..."
"What?" he asked, trying to smooth down his wayward hair.
She walked over to him. "You look absolutely dashing. I think I might swoon."
He grinned at her. "Shall I catch you?"
"I think you might have to," she said touching his cheek.
"Oi! Potters!" Ron's voice called out from downstairs. "The Weasleys are here!"
"Thanks for knocking as always Ron!" Harry shouted back.
"You're quite welcome," Ron said.
Drew, Darla and Jon and Josh both sat down in the sitting room.
"We're actually on time for once," Luna said with a laugh. "How did we manage that?"
"Probably because Mum's watching Maddie and R.J.," Ron said, referring to their newborn and two year old.
"I wish we could have stayed home," Jon said pulling at his dress robes.
"Not me," Drew said standing up and doing a twirl. "I'm ready to dance. Right, Daddy?"
"That's right baby," Ron agreed. "And I'm ready to eat!"
"You're always ready to eat Uncle Ron," Ethan said as he appeared in the doorway.
"Hey Little Man," Ron said.
"You look so handsome," Luna said grinning at her godson.
"He should," Julie said coming downstairs dressed in a green ball gown. Her hair was done up in an elegant bun with tendrils framing her face. "I practically had to sit on him to get him dressed."
"Julie," Luna beamed. "You look beautiful."
Josh swallowed the lump in his throat as Julie smiled and hugged his mother. "You really do look gorgeous Julie," he stammered, ignoring the smirk his twin was sending his way.
"Thanks Josh," Julie said beaming at him. "You look very handsome."
Josh blushed. "Thanks," he mumbled, looking down at his feet.
"You're going to dance with me tonight, right?" Julie asked.
"You want to dance with me?" Josh's eyes were wide.
"And me too right?" Jon teased her.
Julie laughed. "If you promise not to step on my feet Jon, I bet I could fit you in for one dance. But Josh is going to keep me company while Tosh and Chi are off in the corner making eyes at each other."
"They are so sweet," Luna replied. "Are your parents ready?"
"Nearly," Julie said. The doorbell chimed and Julie grinned. "That's probably the Longbottoms. Be right back."
"Joshie if you were any redder-" Jon began gleefully when Ron interrupted him.
"Jon shut it," Ron said. "Remember, you two promised to be nice tonight?"
"Yeah, once we got to the ball," Jon pulled at the neck of his robes.
"Chi!" Julie squealed swinging open the front door. "You look amazing!"
"So do you Jules!" Chiaki said. She'd chosen to wear a simple black ball gown that evening and her mother had lent her some diamond earrings that offset her glossy black hair.
Frankie pushed past her older sister with a scowl on her face.
"What's wrong with her?" Julie asked.
Allison rolled her eyes. "Everything's unfair as usual."
"Look at little Allie Longbottom," Julie said smiling at the younger girl. She was wearing a pale pink ball gown and her hair was styled in ringlets.
"I'm not that little," Allison said with a smile, knowing Julie was teasing her.
"All three of my girls are growing up too fast," Neville said.
"Dad!" Chiaki said poking him in the side.
"Where's Tosh?" Julie asked her best friend.
"Meeting us later," Chiaki said. "I cannot wait for him to see me."
Cho followed Julie and her daughters into the sitting room.
"Hi Al," Jon said shyly straightening up when he saw her walk in.
"Hi Jon," Allison said. "Hi Josh. You look really nice tonight."
"Thanks Allie," Josh said smiling at her. "So do you."
"No one's said anything about me!" Frankie said grumpily. "I didn't want to wear purple dress robes but Mum made me and I really wanted to wear black like Chiaki..."
"Your purple robes are fine Frankie," Cho told her.
"I wanted to wear a gown!" Frankie said huffily.
"You said you wanted to wear robes," Allison pointed out.
"I changed my mind!" Frankie snapped back.
Cho sighed. "Come on then. We'll take you upstairs and see if I can change it for you."
"You can use my room Aunt Cho," Julie offered.
"No," Neville said. "Francesca, you wanted to wear purple robes this evening so that's what you're going to wear!"
"But I didn't know everyone else was wearing gowns!" Frankie protested. "Please Daddy!"
"And here goes the Drama Queen," Allison whispered to Josh and Jon.
Cho put a hand on her husband's arm. "I can change it," she said quietly to him. "Come on- I don't want her pouting tonight. It's such an important night for Hermione."
"Right," Neville said. He levelled his gaze at his youngest daughter. "Francesca, there will be no more complaining or whining tonight, understood?"
"Okay Daddy," Frankie said, sugary sweet now that she was getting her way.
"Your grandparents are coming, aren't they?" Ron asked Julie.
Julie nodded. "Gran and Grandpa wouldn't miss this for the world. They're going to meet us at the ball. Aunt Lav's bringing them."
"I bet they're really proud of your mum," Luna said, sitting between her sons.
"We all are," Julie said with a smile. "I just...I hate the idea of moving. This is home."
"That's how we felt about moving to Ireland," Jon said.
"Everyone was very cross with me," Ron said. "The only one who spoke to me was Maddie and she just said 'Ga'."
"We survived," Luna said,. "And Ireland is very nice."
"And Dad said we could visit all the time," Josh said with a meaningful look at Julie.
"That's great," Julie smiled back at him. "We'll always be glad to have you. In the new place we have tons of room."
Jon rolled his eyes and picked up three of Ethan's small footballs which were on the floor.
"Hey Al?" he asked. "Did you know I could juggle?"
"You can?" Allison asked, breaking her gaze away from Josh.
Jon nodded and threw two of the balls up in the air expertly catching them while holding onto the third. When he saw Allison look away, he moved closer. Unfortunately, one of the balls slipped out of his hand and hit her on the cheek.
"Oh!" Allison said startled.
"I'm sorry!" Jon said, dropping all three of the balls. "Al I didn't mean that to happen, really."
"It's okay," Allison said. "You just took me by surprise is all..."
"It's not red or anything," Jon said, inspecting her cheek closely. "I'm really, really sorry."
"It's okay Jon," she said touching his arm. "I think I'll live."
"Okay," he said, stuffing his hands in his pockets.
"You need practise brother," Josh teased. "Lots and lots of practise."
"At least I can do it," Jon muttered. "Hey Joshie, got any poems to read tonight?"
"Poems?" Julie asked. "I didn't know you wrote poetry Josh."
"I don't," Josh said glaring at his brother.
"Sure he does Jules," Jon said, grinning wickedly. "In fact, most of them are about y--"
"Yoghurt," Josh said hitting his brother in the arm. "Yoghurt. I just can't get enough of the stuff."
Julie gave them both a strange look. "If you say so..."
"Hermione!" Cho exclaimed when she saw her friend descending the staircase with Harry.
"That's Minister Potter to you," Harry corrected.
"Oh stop it Harry," Hermione said, giving Cho a hug. "I'm so glad you all are coming tonight."
"We wouldn't miss you becoming the Top Dog," Ron said. "The Head Honcho. The Woman."
"Top Dog?" Hermione asked raising an eyebrow at him.
Harry started to laugh so hard he choked.
"Top Dog is a good thing," Ron said hastily.
Hermione shook her head. "Lav's meeting us at the ball with my parents." she said.
"I'm ready to see Grandpa!" Ethan said running at his father. "Let's go, Dad."
"All right little man," Harry chuckled.
"Our best friend Minister for Magic," Luna said. "I can't believe it!"
Hermione smiled. "I'm still getting used to the idea myself."
"I've always wondered," Cho teased. "What do they call the spouse of the Minister? Is there an official title?"
"Mr. Minister?" Harry joked, helping Hermione on with her cloak.
"That doesn't sound good at all," Ron said shaking his head.
"Better than being a bottomless pit," Neville said with a grin.
"Very funny Longbottom," Ron said sarcastically.
"Let's get going," Luna said. "Hermione you have to be there early right?"
Hermione nodded. "I really do appreciate you all coming for support. It means so much to me."
"We'd do anything for you," Luna hugged her. "We're all so proud."
"Thanks Luna," Hermione said trying not to cry.
"Come on Mum," Julie smiled at her. "Don't cry or you'll have to face Aunt Lav's wrath."
"Right," Hermione said smiling back at her. "Julie, you look stunning."
"Thanks Mum," Julie replied.
The Ministry had given them portkeys so they'd arrive at the Ministry's large ballroom. The Weasleys and Longbottoms went first leaving Hermione alone with her family. For the first time that evening, Hermione truly felt nervous. This was the moment she'd been waiting her entire life for and it was finally here.
"You look really pretty Mummy," Ethan said smiling up at her.
"Thank you sweetheart," the expression of awe on her young son's face made her feel a little more at ease. "Are you going to dance with me tonight?"
Ethan nodded. "I love you Mummy."
"I love you too," Hermione hugged him to her. "And you look so handsome tonight Ethan. Just as handsome as your daddy."
"I think he might be cuter," Harry said mussing Ethan's hair.
"Come on," Hermione said with a laugh. "We should get going."
"Put your hand on the book little man," Julie said. "Come on."
Ethan had only travelled by portkey once before and he tentatively touched his palm to the large tome. "Hold my hand Julie?"
"Sure thing," Julie said smiling at him. "You can even close your eyes if you want."
Ethan nodded nervously and did just that.
The portkey activated and Julie held on tight to her brother's hand.
Everyone was pulled through and a moment later found themselves in an elegantly decorated ballroom.
Julie chuckled. "You can let go of my hand little man, we're here."
"Wow," Ethan's eyes were huge as he looked around and let go of his sister's hand. "Mummy is this all for you?"
"This is all for me," Hermione said nodding. "I had no idea they were going to go to this much trouble."
"There's going to be loads of people from all over the world here," Julie told her brother.
"Really?" Ethan asked excitedly. "This is so cool!"
Samuel Baker, Hermione's new assistant, hurried over to her. After exchanging hellos with Ethan, Julie and Harry, Samuel led Hermione away for last minute preparations.
"Okay," Ron said coming over to Harry. "Some snot nosed waiter just threatened to kick me out if I tried to get something from the kitchens. All I wanted was one little bite of shrimp. Is that so wrong? And it's not like they don't have enough!"
Harry laughed at his friend. "Can't you control your stomach for more than two seconds?"
"One shrimp Harry," Ron said holding up a finger to illustrate his point. "One."
Harry shook his head and beckoned to a pretty waitress. "Hi there," he gave her an appealing grin. "Would you be able to sneak us out some of that shrimp that you've got in the kitchens? I'm sure my wife, the new Minister, would appreciate it."
The girl blushed. "I'll see what I can do," she promised in a slightly flirtatious tone.
Ron rolled his eyes. "I could have done that, you know."
"No you couldn't have," Harry replied. "You don't have the Potter charm."
"Potter charm?" Ron asked. "I'll show you charm..."
He flagged down another waitress. "Sweetheart, would you mind getting me a glass of champagne? I'm really thirsty and I think you're just the woman..."
"Bar's over there," she replied, pointing across the room.
Ron frowned. "I'm a close personal friend of the new Minister. Are you sure you couldn't go and grab me a glass? I'd be forever in your debt, love."
The woman snorted and walked away without another word.
"Shut up Harry," Ron warned his friend.
"I wasn't going to say anything," Harry said stifling a laugh. "Honest."
"Sure you weren't," Ron muttered.
"Daddy's just crabby because he didn't eat anything yet," Drew reported.
"Crabby?" Ron asked tickling her. "I'll show you crabby..."
"Daddy!" Drew squealed darting behind her mother.
"Ronald," Luna chastised him. "Not here."
"Okay," Ron said. "But there's no one here but us right now, Loony. I'm not going to embarrass anyone."
"Just don't do that dance you do where you look like a chicken," Jon said to his father. "That looks really lame."
Josh laughed at his father's expression. "Jon's not much better," he told Julie.
"I don't dance," Jon said folding his arms. "But Josh has been practising for months by himself just for tonight."
"Oh?" Julie asked grinning at Josh. "You have your eye on someone?"
"Does he have his eye on someone?" Jon chortled.
"Come on Weasley," Julie said nudging Josh. "Don't hold out on me. Who's the girl?"
Allison perked up at this and stepped discreetly closer to hear Josh's answer.
"No one," Josh mumbled, clearly uncomfortable with all the attention he was getting. "I just wanted to make sure I knew how to handle myself on the dance floor."
"I'll help you anyway I can," Julie promised.
Josh turned red all the way to the tips of his ears. "Okay," he said, brightening.
Jon walked over to where Frankie and Allison were standing. "I can't believe Julie doesn't see it."
Allison looked away, wishing that Josh would come to his senses. "I guess not," she said softly.
"Why don't you dance Jon?" Frankie asked.
"Because I'm not very good at it," Jon replied. "If I really fancied a girl, I'd probably ruin my chances by stepping all over her poor feet."
Allison was so busy staring at Josh and Julie she failed to notice Jon's meaningful glance her way. "I'm going to get something to drink," she said. "Frankie tell Mum and Dad I'll be right back okay?"
Frankie nodded and gave Jon a slight smile.
"I'm no better than Josh," he mumbled.
"Why?" Frankie asked, her gaze momentarily snared by some wizards only a few years older than her.
"Chasing after something that's probably never going to happen," Jon said looking at Allison as she crossed the room.
"And so after they introduce you and swear you in as the Minister, you'll give your speech," Samuel said to Hermione, whose hands had gone completely clammy.
Hermione nodded absently. "How many people did you say were going to be here tonight?"
"I'd say somewhere in the thousands," Samuel replied, unaware of his superior's sudden ashen expression.
"When you say thousands," Hermione said shakily. "You're exaggerating right?"
"Everyone is most eager to see you," Samuel said. "You're the first woman Minister we've ever had."
Hermione nodded. "Added pressure..."
"You'll do fine," Samuel assured her. "You've already passed the hardest part- which is winning the election."
"Right," Hermione said.
"I'm going to go and welcome some of the delegates from Brazil and Argentina," Samuel said looking at his watch. "Their portkey was scheduled to activate in about five minutes. Will you be okay Minister?"
"If you see my husband will you send him over to me?" Hermione asked.
Samuel promised he would and Hermione began pacing back and forth picturing in her mind every single worst case scenario imaginable. And not just with the Inauguration Ball, but with everything that followed after.
"Hey," Harry had come up behind her. "Samuel said you wanted me?"
"I think I'm going to be sick," Hermione said turning around to face him. "I'm sweaty and my hands are all clammy. I feel like any minute I'm going to throw up. I don't think I thought all this through, Harry. I'm..."
"Hermione," Harry cupped her face in his hands. "You're going to be fine sweetheart."
"Easy for you to say," she said looking away.
"Hey," Harry held her chin and forced her to look back at him. "Would I lie to you?"
She shook her head. "No, but you're supposed to say that. You're my husband."
"I bet I know what will make you feel better," Harry said after a few moments of silence passed between them.
"You're going to take me home?" she asked hopefully.
He chuckled "No."
"What then?" she asked softly.
"Will you dance with me?" he asked, holding his hand out.
"Here?" Hermione asked.
"Sure," Harry replied. "Why not?"
"There's so much to do and we..." she argued, but her voice trailed off as her husband gave her his famous puppy dog eyes. She'd never been able to resist that. "Okay, I suppose one dance now couldn't hurt."
"You know it'll relax you," Harry murmured in her ear as he pulled her close. "You're going to be fine tonight Hermione. Ethan, Jules and I will be right there in the front watching you."
"I couldn't have done this without all of you," she said resting her head on his shoulder.
"Sure you could have," Harry said, rubbing her back through her gown. "Hermione, you're smart, successful, gorgeous and headstrong. You've worked hard for this and now it's paid off. You're the most powerful witch in Britain."
Hermione smiled up at him. "I love you."
Harry kissed her lightly. "Love you too," he grinned back.
"You relaxed me as promised," she said looping her arms around his neck.
"Don't I always?" he teased, dipping her back gently.
"Yes," she said laughing.
"Minister Potter," Lavender said from behind them. She was joined by Robert and Elinore who beamed at their daughter.
"I'm so glad you're all here!" Hermione said giving them each a hug.
"As if we'd miss your big night," Lavender said smiling brightly at her.
"Harry's just helping me soothe a rather nasty case of butterflies," Hermione hugged her parents tightly. "Mum, Dad, I'm so glad you both are here."
"We're so proud of you Hermione Jane," Elinore said. "And you look beautiful. Doesn't she, Robert?"
"She always does," Robert kissed his daughter's cheek. "Congratulations sweetheart."
"Thanks Daddy," Hermione said trying hard not to cry.
"Who's the lucky bloke tonight?" Harry teased Lavender. "Do we need to warn him?"
"Sod off Potter," Lavender frowned at him. "I came with a friend, that's all. One of my models."
"Poor bloke," Harry said pulling a face. "I'm not sure he knows what he's getting into. Didn't Husbands number one and two start out as just friends as well?"
"Harry," Hermione gave him a sharp jab. "Please stop."
"It's okay Hermione," Lavender said. "I can take it. I'm so happy for you tonight that I can put up with his little comments."
Thankfully, Ethan had spotted his grandparents and came running full speed toward them.
"Grandpa!" Ethan exclaimed.
"Who is that handsome young man?" Elinore asked. "Certainly not my grandson."
"Grandma it's me!" Ethan said. "Ethan!"
Elinore laughed. "I know. I was just teasing. You look very handsome Ethan James."
"Thanks Grandma," Ethan tugged at his collar. "This thing itches."
"Don't you dare mess it up," Julie said coming over to join them. "You guys wouldn't believe what I had to go through to get him dressed."
"Julie," Robert said kissing her cheek. "You look beautiful love."
"Thank you Grandpa," Julie hugged him. "I hope you'll dance with me later."
"If some other bloke doesn't beat me to it," Robert replied.
"I'll always have time to dance with you," Julie smiled at him.
By this time, the ballroom was becoming quite crowded and Samuel returned to retrieve Hermione.
"Don't go Mummy," Ethan said grabbing her hand.
"I have to sweetheart," Hermione said. "But you, Daddy and Jules will be right there in front of me while I give my speech."
"You'll come back when it's over?" Ethan asked.
"I'll be right back when it's over," Hermione smiled at him.
"Good luck Mum," Julie said smiling reassuringly at her. "Make us proud!"
"Thank you," Hermione hugged her daughter. "I'll see you all out there."
"Good luck Mummy!" Ethan called after her waving enthusiastically.
"Let's go and get our seats," Harry told the others.
Ethan slipped his hand back into his sister's as they sat down. "I hope Mummy is okay up there." he said. "She looked really scared."
"She'll be fine," Julie reassured him. "Mum's the best. Right?"
"Right," Ethan nodded.
They all watched as the outgoing Minister was introduced. He made some remarks about his own administration and its accomplishments. Ethan was getting antsy, but tried to keep still and quiet because he knew it was important to his mother.
"And I'd like to introduce you to my successor," the minister said. "This woman has interned under me and there is no one else I feel I could leave you all in the hands of and not worry." he smiled as some of the audience members chuckled. "Please welcome our new Minister for Magic, Hermione Potter."
Everyone stood and applauded as Hermione took the stage. Her eyes found Harry, Julie and Ethan immediately and she felt bolstered just looking at them.
"First of all I'd like to thank everyone for being here tonight," she began. "Becoming Minister for Magic has been a dream of mine for many years and it's due to the support of my family and friends that I stand here in front of you this evening to give this speech."
Julie turned to look at her father. His eyes were trained on her mother's. She hoped someday that someone would look at her that way. Ethan, surprisingly, was sitting stock still hanging on his mother's every word.
"I promise, during my time as Minister, to fulfil every campaign promise I made," Hermione continued. "Being honest and respectful is very important to me, and I intend on making sure that everyone magical knows that."
"When I entered the Wizarding World as a young girl, I faced many obstacles," Hermione said. "Not only because I was a woman, but because I was Muggle-born."
"Damn she's good," Ron whispered in admiration to Harry. "Did she rehearse this?"
"Every night for about two months actually," Harry whispered back. "She was actually worried it wasn't any good."
"Daddy what's obstacles?" Ethan asked quietly as his mother continued her speech.
"Something that stands in your way," Harry explained softly. "Something that could stop you from doing something or having something you want."
"Do I have obstacles?" Ethan asked.
Harry chuckled. "Well, do you remember how you didn't want to wear dress robes tonight?"
"Oh," Ethan's eyes cleared. "So my dress robes are an obstacle in the way of wearing regular clothes?"
Harry patted Ethan's knee. "That's right, son. Let's listen to your Mummy's speech, okay?"
"Okay Daddy," Ethan straightened up. "Sorry."
"It's okay," Harry said returning his attention to Hermione.
"I don't expect this to be an easy job," Hermione said looking out onto the crowd. "There is a lot of work ahead of us. First and foremost, I want to issue reforms that will give house elves more rights..."
Samuel nodded- he was also a big supporter of the rights of house elves and he was pleased that the new Minister also seemed to take that seriously.
"For far too long, they have had to endure demeaning, strenuous work without any pay or gratitude," Hermione continued.
"I will be taking questions tonight about this issue should anyone want to approach me about it," Hermione began to wrap up her speech. "And I'll be available all evening to meet everyone as well. I hope to make my run a successful one and continue to make things work as smoothly as Minister Draven has."
"She looks a lot better than he does at any rate," Ron joked to Harry.
Harry elbowed Ron sharply in the side.
"She does," Ron whispered. "I doubt he could pull off a ball gown."
"Again," Hermione smiled. "Thank you for believing that I can do the best job as your Minister for Magic."
Everyone stood and applauded as Minister Draven shook Hermione's hand. Julie reached out for Ethan's hand, but her little brother was already sprinting toward the stage. He figured that since his mother's speech was over, he could go and give her a hug.
"Ethan!" Julie called out but Ethan either didn't hear or didn't care.
"Mummy!" he called out excitedly. "Mummy you did really good!"
Hermione smiled as her son launched himself at her. Samuel stood up to head him off, but Hermione shook her head.
"Thanks little man," she said scooping him up. "I was looking at you the whole time."
"I could see!" Ethan hugged her. "You didn't make one mistake!"
"And you were such a good boy," Hermione said kissing his cheek.
Julie and Harry joined them on stage.
"I tried to stop him Mum," Julie apologised.
"It's okay," Hermione said smiling at her. "If he hadn't have come up here, I would have run down there. I was so nervous until I saw you three looking up at me."
"You did a wonderful job," Harry gave his wife a kiss. "Congratulations love."
"Thanks," she said beaming back at him.
"Minister, there are some special guests who would like a word," Samuel interrupted.
"Of course," Hermione said, beaming at Samuel's words. "I'll join you three in a few minutes all right?"
Harry nodded and took Ethan from Hermione. "Come on little man. Let's go see if they have anything good to eat."
"I want some chocolate Dad," Ethan said as Harry led him away.
"Hey Julie," Josh said nervously. "They um... they started dancing out there."
Julie grinned. "I can see that. You want to show me how good you are?"
"If you really want to," Josh said in relief- he thought Julie would really laugh in his face. "I'm not too bad and I promise not to step on your toes."
"I want to find out about this girl you've got your eye on," Julie said leading him out onto the floor. "Jon's not around to take the Mickey. You can tell me, Josh. Who is this dream girl of yours?"
"It's no one you know Julie," Josh said, blushing again. "Really... Jon's just being a jerk."
They found an empty spot on the floor and Julie laughed as Josh looked at her as if he didn't know what to do. She took his hands and placed them on her waist. "That seems like a good place to start, eh Josh?" she asked teasingly.
"Sure," Josh stammered.
From his spot by the bar, Jon watched his brother and Julie dance. He'd wait until later to give him a hard time about it. Right now, he was trying to work up his own courage to ask Allison to dance. She was sitting with her sisters and Toshio and looking quite sad.
"Do you want to dance, Allie?" Jon practised under his breath. "Allie, care to dance?"
"Jon?" Drew asked tugging at her brother's leg. "Who are you talking to?"
"No one Drew," Jon frowned at his younger sister. "Why don't you go bug Dad?"
"He's dancing with Darla," Drew said. "Why were you talking to yourself?"
"Because I was," Jon replied. "Say, do you know where Allie went?"
"She was sitting with Chiaki and Frankie," Drew said pointing over to them. "But Chiaki's dancing with Toshio now. Are you going to dance too?"
"I'm going to try," Jon said, leaving his little sister behind and focusing on the pretty brunette whose eyes were glued to Josh and Julie.
The entire way over to the Longbottom's table, Jon said silent prayers that she wouldn't laugh in his face and tell him to sod off.
"Hey Al," Jon's voice made Allison turn her head this way. "You uh... are you having fun?" he smiled tentatively at her.
"Not really," she said quietly.
"You aren't?" he asked. "How come?"
"She wants to dance," Frankie blurted out.
"You do?" Jon asked hopefully. "Would you want to uh... dance with me?"
"I thought you didn't dance," Allison asked.
"Josh says he's a terrible dancer," Frankie reported. "He told me that he's much better."
"Frankie," Allison gave her sister a dirty look. "Shut up."
"Fine," Frankie said glaring at her. "I'm going to go get something to eat!" With that, Frankie slid her chair back and then stalked off.
"Come on Al," Jon said smiling at her. "We are married, you know."
Allison laughed. "I'd forgotten all about that!"
Jon put his hand to his heart and pretended to be affronted. "Kick a bloke while he's down, why don't you?"
"All right," Allison smiled at him. "I'll make it up to you by dancing with you. But I warn you, I may just trounce on your toes once or twice..."
Jon couldn't believe she'd actually agreed to a dance. He wouldn't mind if she stomped on his toes. "You're the one who should be worried."
"You haven't seen my attempt at a waltz," Allison joked, happy to keep her mind of Josh hardly noticing her all night.
"You look really, really nice tonight," Jon said nervously. "Not that you don't look good all the time, but tonight..."
"Oh thanks," Allison blushed. "Chiaki helped me get ready."
Jon smiled at her. "She did a really good job."
"You're not just saying that are you?" Allison asked uncertainly. "I'm not as pretty as my sisters are..."
Jon shook his head. "I'm not just saying that, Allie. I-I think you're very pretty."
Allison blushed even more. "Thanks Jon." she said as he spun her around a little clumsily.
"Sorry," he said turning red. "I saw my dad do that to my mum once. They made it seem easy."
"It's okay," she smiled at him. "Thanks for asking me to dance."
Across the room," Harry was finally pulling his wife onto the dance floor. "Minister," he said in her ear. "I get your first dance..."
"The Minister from Spain beat you to it," she said with a straight face. "And he has that whole dark, smouldering look going for him..."
"I'm dark and smouldering," Harry said with an injured look.
Hermione looked thoughtfully at him. "You smoulder a little, I suppose."
"A little?" Harry asked, pulling her close and dipping her back dramatically.
"Would it make you feel any better if I told you I was having naughty little thoughts about you right now?" she asked as he pulled her up. "You know what seeing you in dress robes always does to me."
"I have an inkling," Harry said, kissing her. "Have I told you how proud I am of you Hermione?"
"Yes," she said smiling at him. "But you can tell me again."
"I... am... so... proud..." he didn't care that they were being overly affectionate in such a public place.
"I don't want this night to end," she whispered.
"It doesn't have to," Harry said. "When we get home, we'll set a silencing charm on the room and lock the door..."
"What it Ethan has another nightmare?" Hermione asked. "He's slept with us every night for the past two weeks."
"I'll ask Jules to take care of him tonight." Harry said. "He's got to get over the nightmares, and not just because I want to shag you tonight. He's going to be six soon and he's too old to be sleeping with us."
"I know," Hermione said. "But..."
"Come on," Harry said softly.
"I want to be alone with you too, but what if he needs us?" Hermione asked.
"We'll still be there," Harry replied, swinging her across the floor.
"I know," she said feeling light headed as she danced with Harry. "This is reminding me of Hillsdale. That last night we were there... remember?"
"When we were finally able to be together in public?" Harry smiled.
Hermione nodded. "I remember feeling so free that night. That anything and everything I wanted was possible. I feel the same way tonight."
"I'm glad," Harry said. "We're all happy for you sweetheart."
"Thank you Harry," she said giving him a kiss.
"For what?" he asked, keeping her close.
"For being here," she replied resting her head on his chest as they danced. "For being by my side no matter what."
"That's where I'll always be," he answered, kissing the side of her head. "No matter what."
Robert and Elinore were sitting with Lavender and her date Marcus when Harry and Hermione joined them.
"Samuel brought over some congratulatory letters," Elinore said handing them to her daughter.
"Thanks Mum," Hermione said. "This has been such a wonderful night hasn't it?"
"It really has," Elinore said smiling at her. "Your father and I are so proud."
"It was really deep, you know?" Marcus asked a dazed expression on his face. Lavender shot Harry a warning look to not make any smart remarks.
"Deep as the ocean," Harry replied with a straight face.
"Totally," Marcus said nodding. He looked at Lavender. "Babe, you want anything else to drink? I'm going to make another run..."
"Another glass of champagne would be lovely," Lavender told him.
"Sure," Marcus sent her a grin and headed towards the other side of the room.
"Not one word," Lavender said before Harry could open his mouth. "Marcus is a very intelligent, thoughtful man, Harry."
"I wasn't going to say anything," Harry replied, biting his lower lip to keep it from twitching.
"Oh my," Hermione said after reading one of the letters. "This is...this is from Seamus."
"Finnigan?" Lavender asked in disbelief.
"Yeah," Hermione smiled. "He told me he'd heard about my becoming Minister and that he always knew I'd do it someday. How nice of him!"
"He has some bloody nerve!" Lavender said snatching the letter from Hermione. "After what he did to me....and he doesn't even mention me at all in this letter! What a complete and utter..."
"Why should you care?" Harry asked. "You're the one that dumped him."
"Hello?" Lavender asked sarcastically. "The wanker cheated on me!"
"Says you," Harry retorted.
"I know what I walked in on," Lavender said crumpling the letter up and throwing it down on the table. "And if he thinks he can just send a letter to my cousin, well he's completely uncouth and is every bit the scoundrel I always thought he was."
"You know, that is my letter," Hermione picked it up and smoothed it out. "I know things didn't end well between you two Lav but it was still a nice gesture on his part."
"Whatever," Lavender said standing up. "I'm going to go and find Marcus."
"Check the deep end of the ballroom," Harry cracked as she stalked away.
"You probably made things worse," Hermione said shaking her head.
"She's the one overreacting," Harry pointed out. "Seamus has every right to send you a letter Hermione."
"I didn't say he didn't," Hermione said. "But we know how tetchy she gets about Seamus."
"She's the one who broke up with him," Harry said firmly. "I believed Seamus when he said it was a big mistake."
"It doesn't matter what you or I think," Hermione said. "It's Lavender. She was really hurt, Harry."
"I know," Harry sat back. "But that was how many years ago now- a simple letter shouldn't set her off like this."
"It probably stirred up some old memories," Elinore said thoughtfully. "If you ask me, Lavender has never gotten over him."
Robert shrugged. "That's fairly obvious." he stood up. "Would the new Minister do her father the honour of dancing with him?"
Hermione beamed at him. "I'd love to Daddy."
"And how about my gorgeous mother-in-law?" Harry asked winking at Elinore. "Care to chance it?"
Elinore laughed. "You never cease the flattering do you Harry?" she joked, accepting his hand.
"Just telling the truth is all," Harry said leading her off to the dance floor.
Ethan was sitting with his Uncle Neville, Aunt Cho and Frankie. Chiaki and Toshio joined them a few moments later.
"You going to get out there Ethan?" Neville asked the little boy.
Ethan vehemently shook his head. "Just with Mummy. I don't want to dance with anyone else."
"No one else?" Cho asked.
"Not even me Ethan?" Chiaki asked with a smile.
Ethan stared at her with wide eyes. "But you're dancing with Toshio, Kiki."
"I'm sure Tosh can spare one dance so I can get out there with you," Chiaki said. "How about it Ethan? Just one?"
Ethan's cheeks turned bright red. "Well, if it's just one....okay Kiki."
"Don't get too jealous Tosh," Chiaki whispered teasingly to her boyfriend.
Toshio laughed. "I'll try."
"Won't I be too short?" Ethan asked worriedly as he and Chiaki walked out onto the dance floor.
"I don't mind if you don't Ethan," Chiaki replied, smiling down at her best friend's brother.
"I don't mind," Ethan said smiling back at her. "You're cool Kiki."
"You're pretty cool too Ethan," she said, leading them around in a gentle circle.
"Look at your son," Robert said to Hermione motioning to where Ethan and Chiaki were dancing.
"That's so sweet," Hermione smiled. "He has a little crush on her you know."
"I hadn't noticed," Robert said with a laugh. "I don't remember ever seeing him smile like that."
"She's a sweet girl to humour him like that," Hermione replied.
"She's been a really good friend to Julie," Robert said. "In fact, I'd say you have a great group of friends, Hermione. I was always worried about you, you know? When you were younger, you kept to yourself quite a bit."
"A lot of it has to do with Harry," Hermione said. "He's the one who really opened my eyes and helped me see that not all life was about books and studying."
Robert smiled at his daughter. "You know how much I hate to admit I was wrong...'
Hermione giggled. "But aren't you glad you were?"
"I am," Robert said chuckling. "Because of him, I have two wonderful grandchildren and my little girl is happier than she's ever been."
"On top of the world," Hermione agreed.
***
The reporter smiled at the Minister. "Sounds like that was quite a night," the reporter commented.
"Oh it was," Hermione agreed. "And it's not been an easy job, but it's definitely rewarding."
"How much longer do you plan on being in office, Minister Potter?" the reporter asked.
"That's an interesting question, and one I'm not quite sure of the answer for," Hermione said thoughtfully.
"Your approval ratings are at an all-time high," the reporter continued.
"That's good to know," Hermione said with a laugh. "Things have been going smoother than ever lately, despite some trouble in my personal life. I've had to deal with the death of my father this past year, and that was a very difficult time for everyone in my family."
"How are you and your family coping?" the reporter asked gently.
"We're doing all right now," Hermione replied. "It happened over the summer."
"I understand that your youngest daughter was particularly close to her grandfather," the reporter said.
"Very much so," Hermione nodded. "She took it the hardest out of all of us, I think."
"You and your husband must be proud of how your children have turned out," the reporter commented. "Your son is working as an Auror. Your oldest daughter recently returned to Hogwarts as a professor and your youngest is turning out to be quite the Quidditch player."
"We definitely are," Hermione said with a smile. "Harry and I got very lucky to have such wonderful children. They've been very supportive of my job."
"And how much longer do your children think you'll be serving as Minister?" the reporter asked with a sly smile, trying again to get Hermione to answer the question everyone was talking about.
Hermione shook her head. "Again, at this point none of us are really sure."
At that moment, there was a gentle knock on Hermione's office door. Samuel poked his head inside.
"Minister?" he said. "Your husband just owled and said he would be here shortly to take you to lunch."
"Thank you Samuel," Hermione smiled at her long time assistant.
"I don't want to keep you any longer," the reporter said closing her notebook. "Thank you so much for agreeing to sit down with me and congratulations on the anniversary of your election, Minister Potter."
"Thank you very much," Hermione shook the reporter's hand. "I look forward to reading your article."
Hermione led the woman out of the office and said goodbye. When they were alone, Samuel grinned.
"I can't believe it's been 18 years," Samuel said. "It seems like just yesterday, we were moving into this office."
"Tell me about it," Hermione agreed with a smile. "18 years together Samuel, can you believe it?"
"Best job I ever had," Samuel said sincerely. "And here's to 18 more years!"
"Hear, hear," Hermione laughed.
*** *** ***
Saffron and Andrew never got around to flying alone together like Andrew had hoped. Because she knew Peter wouldn't like it, Saffron had kept putting Andrew off and asked Imelda and their other team mates to tag along. It certainly didn't help matters with R.J. trying everything in his power to get Saffron around to thinking Andrew was the better bloke.
She was glad that match day finally arrived and she could concentrate completely on her game. It wasn't going to be easy to beat Hufflepuff without R.J., but the Gryffindor team was determined to win to keep their House Cup chances alive.
While R.J. couldn't convince Professor McGonagall to allow him to play, she had relented and agreed that he could watch the match before serving that day's detention with Professor Sprout. He and Alexa were scheduled to clean the greenhouses without magic. It looked to be a long afternoon, but R.J. wasn't concerned about that at the moment. He was too busy watching the match from the stands.
"NO!" R.J. screamed out. "My Nana can fly better than that! Come on, Andrew!"
"R.J. relax," Alexa put a hand on his arm. "Andrew's doing fine."
"Would you look at Imelda?" R.J. asked. "She's not even moving!"
"R.J. is this how you are at practises?" Alexa asked him.
He absently shook his head. "I'm worse."
"Rather makes me glad I don't play Quidditch," Alexa muttered, tightening her cloak.
"We're down by fifty points Lex," R.J. said defensively. "I have a right to be upset."
"Saffy's going to catch the Snitch and everything will be fine," Alexa assured him. "Look- she's not stopped looking since the match started. She's going to get it!"
Beth nudged Alexa. She held out her omnioculars. "Looks like Peter's more interested in his fan club than watching Saffy play."
"What?" Alexa took the Omnioculars and focused across the field to where the Ravenclaws were sitting. Sure enough, Peter's attention wasn't focused on his girlfriend streaking across the sky but on the blonde sitting next to him, apparently hanging onto his every word. "Beth he's probably just talking about something school related."
"Right," Beth said sarcastically. "I imagine she's offering to tutor him in snogging right about now. Perhaps shagging is next on the agenda."
"Peter wouldn't cheat on Saffy," Alexa glared at her.
"My cousin is in Ravenclaw," Beth said. "And she tells me about how Peter is suddenly Mr. Popularity. All the girls are going after him and he's just soaking up ALL the attention, Lex. I think Saffy should know about that."
"I'm sure she does," Alexa replied as R.J. let out another groan. "But she's not the jealous type. And he told her that he's falling for her and that he's fancied her for a long time. I don't think she's worried."
The Hufflepuff team scored again and R.J. put his head in his hands. "This is torture!"
"R.J. relax," Alexa was losing patience with him. "This isn't the end of the world."
R.J. didn't hear her as he stood up to watch Andrew dodge a Bludger. Unfortunately, he wasn't quick enough to dodge a Hufflepuff beater's bat which hit him square on the arm and he tumbled off his broom and fell hard to the ground.
"SHIT!" R.J. swore.
"Is he okay?" Alexa asked clutching R.J.'s arm.
Saffron was torn between wanting to check on her team mate and going after the snitch which just whizzed past her.
"GET THE SNITCH!" R.J. screamed. "GET IT SAFFY!"
Saffron flew at breakneck speed toward the elusive snitch. The Hufflepuff beater, seeing what she was after, hit the Bludger toward her. Just as Saffron grabbed hold of the Snitch, the Bludger hit her hard on the back.
"OW!" she cried, her fingers still clutching onto the tiny golden ball as she slipped from her broom, hanging on with her free hand. "Bastard!" she screamed, glaring up at him as her body convulsed with pain.
She awkwardly landed; holding onto the snitch as tight as she could. Gryffindor had won, but she felt as if the wind had been knocked out of her.
"Saffy," Alexa was rushing towards her friend as Madam Hooch severely reprimanded the Hufflepuff who'd hit her. "Saffy are you okay?"
Saffron shook her head. "My back really hurts Lex."
"Saf you were brilliant," R.J. was overjoyed. "You won it for us!"
"Thanks," Saffron said wincing as R.J. tried to hug her.
"Miss Potter," Madam Hooch said. "I'd like you and Mr. Kirke to head to the hospital wing. Can you make it or shall I levitate you?"
"I don't think I can make it on my own," Saffron said trying to stand up straight.
"I can help you," Andrew said, holding his broken arm.
"But you're hurt too!" Saffron protested.
Alexa looked around for Peter, sure that he would have been rushing to Saffron's side, but he was nowhere to be found.
"I can make it," Andrew winced as he tried to move his arm.
"I'm sure Peter can help me," Saffron said, looking around for her boyfriend. "I don't want to put you out Andrew."
"I'd like to put out Trent for doing that to you," Andrew said. "Bloody bastard."
"You can say that again," R.J. said furiously. "What a bloody arse."
Up in the stands, Peter was oblivious to the drama going on down on the pitch. A girl who had never spoken more than two words to him now was hanging on his every word.
"You're so funny Peter," she tossed back her gleaming raven hair. "I can't believe I never noticed just how adorable you are..." she leaned in and kissed him on the cheek, just touching the corner of his mouth.
Peter smiled shyly at her. "I worked out a great deal over the summer."
"I can tell," she said squeezing his bicep. "You're so strong!"
"Thanks," he blushed. "Um... maybe we can study later together. I can show you that Herbology stuff you were confused about."
She gave him a big hug. "You're the best!"
"I think she's really hurt!" a boy sitting behind them said.
"Who's hurt?" Peter asked.
"Haven't you been watching the match?" the boy asked in disbelief. "Saffron Potter! And I think Andrew Kirke's banged up too."
"Shit," Peter tried to stand up, but Rebecca tugged on his sleeve.
"They'll take care of her," she said with a sultry smile. "Besides, you don't want to leave me all alone up here do you?"
In the end, it was R.J. and Andrew who helped Saffron to the hospital wing. Andrew was in a great deal of pain, but his own pain didn't matter at the moment.
"Peter was at the match, wasn't he?" Saffron asked leaning on R.J..
"He was there," R.J. said, looking at his girlfriend.
"It was really crowded," Alexa said. "I'm sure he tried to get to you, but couldn't break through the crowd."
"Oh," Saffron groaned in pain as R.J. and Andrew helped her onto one of the beds. "This hurts so bad..." she whimpered.
"Madam Pomfrey will have you fixed up in no time," Andrew told her. "Me too hopefully."
Saffron only nodded and closed her eyes. "At least we won," she said a few moments later.
"Mr. Weasley," Madam Pomfrey said pushing past him. "You and Miss O'Leary should wait outside."
"Right," R.J. took Alexa's hand. "We have to get to the greenhouse."
"If we see Peter we'll tell him you were asking about him okay?" Alexa added.
"Thanks you guys," Saffron called out to them.
"Feel better Saffy," Alexa smiled at her friend as they left. "You too Andrew!"
Madam Pomfrey tended to Saffron first since her injuries were more serious than Andrew's. After examining her, Madame Pomfrey sighed.
"Quidditch is an awful, awful sport," she chastised. "I can't tell you the number of students..."
Andrew caught Saffron's eye and he made a goofy face despite the pain in his arm.
Saffron laughed which only made her wince in pain.
"This is hardly a laughing matter," Madam Pomfrey said. "Is it so funny that you have a sprained back? I didn't think so."
"I never knew you could get a sprained back," Saffron laid her head against the pillow and bit her lower lip to keep from grinning at Andrew.
"Now you know," Madam Pomfrey said. "And you're going to have to stay here for a couple of days, Miss Potter."
"A couple of days?" Saffron asked, shooting straight up. "OW!" she screamed.
"You are as bad as your father," Madam Pomfrey sniffed. "The poor boy was hurt more than he was healthy. It's that blasted game of Quidditch. It should be banned."
"Ban Quidditch?" Andrew asked. "They couldn't do that Madam Pomfrey. It's the best game in the world."
"And my dad wasn't hurt all the time," Saffron said in his defence. "You make it sound like he lived in the hospital wing."
"Miss Potter," Madam Pomfrey glared at her. "Lie down or I'll move you to the other side of the room."
Saffron kept silent, but it didn't stop her from glaring right back at Madam Pomfrey as she tended to Andrew's broken arm. A few minutes later, Madam Pomfrey left them to send word to Professor McGonagall.
"I can't believe we both had to get hurt so I could get you all to myself," Andrew joked.
Saffron laid her head down with a thump. "What a game though!"
"I can't believe you held on to the Snitch," Andrew said admiringly. "You were amazing!"
Saffron smiled. "It's that iron clad grip I have. There's no bloody way in hell I'd let it go once I got my fingers on it."
Andrew laughed. "Even in excruciating pain?"
"Damn straight," Saffron answered, closing her eyes.
"Going to sleep Saffy?" Andrew asked.
"I'd like to," she replied. "But I'm still in a fair bit of pain. You'd think she'd have given me a potion or something to make it go away..."
"She's probably brewing one as we speak," Andrew reassured her. "At least we'll..."
"Saffy!" Peter said running into the hospital ward. "Are you okay?"
"Peter," Saffron's face relaxed into a smile. "I was hoping you'd show up."
"I got here as soon as I could," he said, leaving out the fact that Miranda had done everything in her power to keep him from Saffron.
"Did you?" Andrew asked.
Peter glared at him before pulling a chair over and sitting between Andrew's bed and Saffron's. "I saw what that jerk did to you. I want to kill him."
"You getting protective on me?" Saffron teased smiling at him.
"Can you blame me?" he asked, reaching for her hand.
"I'm glad you're here," she said.
Madam Pomfrey came back into the room carrying a tray. "Miss Potter, I want you and Mr. Kirke to drink all of this. It should help with the pain."
"I'm all for that," Saffron said taking a glass.
"This stuff smells really horrible," Andrew said taking the other glass. "Do you have something that tastes like butterbeer or pumpkin juice?"
"This is to regrow your broken bones," Madam Pomfrey told him coolly.
Andrew frowned and braced himself before downing the contents of the glass. "Ehhhhhh....yummy."
"How long do you have to stay?" Peter asked as Saffron finished her glass, shuddering in disgust.
"When did you get in here?" Madam Pomfrey said rounding on him. "You shouldn't be here! Out!"
"He's my boyfriend," Saffron explained. "He--"
"Out!" Madam Pomfrey snapped. "There will be NO visitors at this time!"
"Sorry Saffy," Peter whispered, giving her a quick kiss on the lips. "I'll try and come by after dinner if she'll let me okay?"
Saffron nodded. "Bye Pete!"
"Later mate," Andrew said, still trying to be nice.
Peter froze as he reached the door. This Andrew Kirke person was going to be in here with Saffron.
"Out!" Madam Pomfrey bellowed.
Saffron sent Madam Pomfrey a dirty look as her boyfriend was practically shoved out. "Honestly," she huffed.
"You do need your rest," Andrew said. "We both do."
"I know but I haven't seen him all day," Saffron pouted.
"I'm sure he'll be back," Andrew reassured her.
Saffron liked Andrew, but she wasn't totally sure what to say once they were alone. She knew R.J. had been pushing them to get together and if she hadn't been seeing Peter, she'd have been quite interested.
"Professor McGonagall will see to it that you'll both receive any assignments you miss," Madam Pomfrey told them. "And your parents will be notified..."
Andrew groaned. "Why? We're okay. My mum is going to freak out. She feels about the same as you do about Quidditch..."
"You should have thought about that before you took it upon yourself to play such a dangerous game," Madam Pomfrey said sternly before disappearing into her office.
"I can just hear my mum now," Andrew said leaning back on his pillows. "Andrew, I've told you a thousand times..." he mimicked.
"My parents will be worried, but my dad will calm my mum down," Saffron said. "He's the one who got me into Quidditch in the first place."
"You know my dad used to play with your dad," Andrew said.
"Did he?" Saffron asked interestedly, turning her head to look at him.
Andrew nodded. "He was a couple of years behind your dad. Andrew Kirke, Sr."
"I don't know if he ever mentioned the name..." Saffron replied.
"My dad still says that your dad was the best he's ever seen on a broom," Andrew said. "Thinks it's a shame he didn't play professionally."
"I think he wanted to," Saffron said pensively. "But becoming an Auror was always his dream."
"And what's your dream?" Andrew asked smiling at her. "You going to rule the country like your mum? Going to fight the evil forces like your dad?"
"I'm going to play Quidditch," Saffron said with a laugh. "I want to play for Puddlemere someday."
"I think you're well on your way," Andrew said.
"You really think so?" Saffron asked hopefully. "I mean, I know I could use a little work on some of my flying techniques."
"Saffron, you don't need any work," Andrew said shaking his head. "You're perfect."
She blushed. "Thanks."
"I'm the one who needs work," he said trying to get comfortable on the bed without hurting his arm.
"That's bollocks," Saffron said, wishing she could turn on her side. "You're fantastic Andrew. R.J. didn't even make you try out for the team before just handing you a position."
"I took a lot of heat for that," Andrew said. "A lot of people thought he just did it because he's my best mate, but you and I both know how serious he is about Quidditch."
"Almost as serious as he is about Lex," Saffron replied with a grin. "I know he wouldn't have given you the spot if he knew you weren't best for it."
"I'd like to play professionally too," Andrew admitted. "But I don't know if that's possible or not."
"I bet you could get on a pro team no trouble," Saffron said loyally. "That scout's been around after R.J.- maybe he was focusing on you playing today since R.J. wasn't out there."
"You are good for my ego," he said laughing. "I'm sure that scout was impressed with how I tumbled so gracefully off the broom and hit the ground."
"That wasn't your fault," Saffron argued. "That jerk hit the Bludger directly at you."
"But I should have seen it coming," Andrew said. "Who knew Hufflepuffs could play so dirty, eh?"
Saffron shook her head. "It was partly worth it to see Madam Hooch yelling at him afterwards."
"And I suppose I have to be grateful to Trent for one thing," Andrew said grinning slyly at her. "I get to have you all to myself for the next couple of days."
Saffron shook her head. "You are completely incorrigible."
"I've picked up a thing or two being mates with R.J.," Andrew said before yawning. Whatever that potion Madam Pomfrey had given him was, it was making him drowsy.
"I guess," Saffron said. Andrew really was rather cute and also quite sweet, she had to admit.
"I hope that Peter bloke realises how lucky he is," Andrew said sleepily, closing his eyes.
"Thanks Andrew," Saffron said softly.
"....welcome," Andrew said before drifting off to sleep.