AN: Again thank you all so much for the reviews- and be sure to listen to the next Harmony Podcast by MisCard as we were both interviewed for it! It was a lot of fun and we can't wait to hear how it turned out!
You get lots of the Hogwarts crew as well as what a lot of you have been asking for- more Drew and Darla! As always please let us know what you think!
In the time between Saffron and Andrew's kiss and them going home for the Christmas holiday, Saffron had devoted all her time to her studies, Quidditch, being a Prefect, and spending the rest of her free time with Peter. She hadn't really talked much to Andrew since that night, and her guilt made her ignore all the problems in her relationship with the Ravenclaw.
She wasn't looking forward to the train ride home because she knew Alexa and R.J. would probably want to share a compartment with Andrew. She made a vow to avoid him at all costs. It was better this way, even if she thought about him constantly.
"Saf?" Peter asked waving his hand in front of her face. "I asked if you wanted to try and find R.J. and Lex?"
"Oh," Saffron smiled lamely. "No, they're probably off snogging somewhere..."
"That sounds like a good idea," he said taking her hand and helping her on the train. "Sounds just like something I'd like to do."
"We should try and find our own compartment and lock it so no one can get in there," Saffron said as they wound past their fellow students.
To her dismay, as she and Peter turned the corner they bumped into Andrew, R.J. and Saffron.
"Hi Saffy," Alexa said brightly. "We were just looking for you."
"You were?" she asked, avoiding Andrew's look.
"We found a compartment," R.J. said noticing that Peter didn't look too happy to see them. "Why don't you two join us?"
"Actually," Andrew said. "I think I'm going to go and sit with Jason."
"But you don't even---" R.J. started to say.
"I'll see you lot later," Andrew said abruptly, turning away without another word.
"Come on," Alexa said taking her friend's arm. "Let's go grab our seats before someone steals them."
"All right," Saffron agreed half heartedly, shooting Peter a look.
"We haven't seen much of you lately," R.J. said to Saffron. "At practises, you haven't really said more than two words. And you're eating meals at insane hours. You know, I might think you were avoiding something...or someone."
"I've been busy," Saffron retorted. "I am a Prefect you know, and I'm at the top of my class, where I intend to stay. And I have Quidditch."
"All work and no play," R.J. teased leading the way to the compartment. "Right Peter?"
"Sure," Peter replied, holding the door open for Saffron and Alexa.
"Have you any plans for the holidays Peter?" Alexa asked conversationally.
"Just doing things with my family," Peter laid his arm possessively around Saffron's shoulders as a few of her Quidditch team mates poked their heads in to say hello.
"Happy Christmas Saffy," Imelda said. "And thanks so much for the scarf!"
"You're welcome," Saffron smiled at her. "I'm really glad you like it."
"Melds you better practise your arse off during hols," R.J. lectured.
Saffron rolled her eyes. "Don't listen to him Imelda. Just have a good holiday. You too Tommy," she smiled at Tommy Sharpe, one of their beaters.
"Can you forget about Quidditch for at least two weeks?" Alexa asked resting her head on R.J.'s shoulder. "Think about hot chocolate and Christmas cookies and ice skating..."
"Snogging you under the mistletoe..." R.J. finished, giving her a kiss.
"You were with Christina Grant last Christmas, weren't you?" Peter asked.
R.J. gave Peter a look. "Yeah, what of it?"
Although Peter had no reason to be jealous of Andrew Kirke, he knew very well that the older boy fancied Saffron. Peter knew it was one-sided as over the past few weeks, Saffron couldn't have been more affectionate. And, to his delight, she'd spent all her free time with him. He knew, though, that nothing would please R.J. Weasley more than to have his best friend with Saffron.
Peter shrugged. "I've just heard things."
"Well whatever you heard it's probably not true," R.J. said irritably. "She and I have been over for almost a year now and everyone still bloody talks about it like we were together yesterday."
"I've just spoken to her a few times in the common room is all," Peter said. "I feel sorry for her."
"Why?" Saffron was giving him a curious look. "She's a horrid beast."
"She's not that bad," Peter said leaning back in his seat.
"You know how badly she's treated all of us," Saffron said frowning at him. "How could you talk to her?"
"All I said was she's not that bad," Peter shrugged.
"How about that blonde I saw you with this morning?" R.J. asked. "The one you were talking to out on the front steps?"
"Who?" Saffron asked her boyfriend, her eyebrow raised.
"Just a girl I've been tutoring," Peter replied. "And you can't seriously be getting angry with me after all the time you spend with other blokes."
"That would be her Quidditch team mates," R.J. interjected.
"And my fellow Prefects," Saffron reminded him with a frown. "Plus I never said I was angry about it, I just asked who it was."
"And I told you," Peter said coolly. "Look, I'm going to go and grab something from the cart. You want anything?"
"Whatever," Saffron turned away from him. "I'm really not hungry."
"Fine," Peter said walking out of the compartment in a huff.
"He's lucky I don't kick his arse," R.J. said quietly.
"It's fine," Saffron rubbed at her eyes. "We're just a bit snappish because we've both been so busy lately."
"I'm sure that's it," R.J. said. "And Saffy, I saw him with that girl and it didn't seem like they were talking about tutoring."
"It'll be fine R.J.," Saffron said. "Can I borrow one of your jumpers? One of the ones Nana Molly made for you?"
"Sure," R.J. replied. "Why?"
"I'm cold," Saffron said. "And Nana's jumpers are the best to snuggle up in when I want to take a kip."
R.J. reached into his bag and pulled out the maroon and gold jumper. "Here you go..."
"Thank you," she said, pulling it over her head. "You don't mind do you Lex?"
"Course not," Alexa said.
"I'll keep her warm," R.J. said putting his arm around Alexa.
Saffron smiled at them. "I still think the two of you are the cutest couple."
"I think we are too," R.J. said grinning at his girlfriend. "And her parents agreed to let her to come to the Burrow for Christmas dinner."
"I was scared they wouldn't after what happened," Alexa said softly.
"I'm sure they trust you," Saffron replied. "Now you just have to work on them to let you come over for New Year's Eve."
"I hope so," Alexa said. "This is our first Christmas together. Last year at this time, I was looking forward to helping my mum at the bakery."
"Are you working there again this year?" Saffron asked.
Alexa nodded. "Every year since I was able to see over the counter."
"My father told me to tell you he expects some more of that fudge," R.J. said to his girlfriend with a grin. "He's completely addicted."
"He should have some of my mum's white chocolate fudge," Alexa said.
"R.J., you should try some of it," Saffron said. "It's fantastic."
"I'll try anything she brings me," R.J. said licentiously.
Saffron shook her head and stretched out on the bench seat. "On that note, I think I'll take my kip now."
"Before old Petey comes back with another of his girlfriends?" R.J. couldn't resist asking.
Saffron opened her eyes and glared at him. "R.J., please don't start."
"Come on Saf- Andrew is so much better than that idiot," R.J. replied. "Even Lexie thinks so."
Saffron sat up and looked at her best friend. "Lex?"
Alexa glared at R.J.. "I never said that."
"Are you speaking for her now?" Saffron asked. "Look, R.J.. Andrew and I are never going to happen. I am with Peter and I'm very happy."
"Is that why you two are bickering constantly?" R.J. returned. "You snogged Andrew back that one night so it's not like everything's peachy with you and Petey."
"You don't know anything about my relationship with Peter," Saffron said hotly. "What happened with Andrew and me was a mistake. I was feeling sad about my grandfather and he..."
"He kissed you and you kissed him back," R.J. finished.
"He does like you a lot," Alexa added quietly. "But it's your decision Saffron, if you do decide somewhere down the road you like Andrew better. But if you stay with Peter, that's fine too. We won't make a fuss about it."
"You won't," R.J. said. "I think the guy's a wanker now that he's all good looking and all that rubbish. He's got a different girl on his arm every time we see him and I bet he's doing more than just tutor."
"That isn't true," Saffron said. "He fancies me, R.J.. And you're one to talk, after the way you were with Christina and the girls before her."
"I was never unfaithful to any of my girlfriends," R.J. retorted.
"I seem to remember you snogging me when you were still with the Wicked Witch of Ravenclaw," Saffron shot back.
"I had broken up with her," R.J. glared.
"Guys please," Alexa said looking back and forth between her boyfriend and her best friend. "Come on. R.J., this is Saffy's choice. As her friend, we have to respect her decision, even if you don't like it."
"Fine," R.J. grumbled. "But you're making a mistake in passing up on Andrew Saf."
"I'm going to go find Peter," Saffron said standing up.
"He's right out there," Alexa pointed.
"With not only a blonde, but a brunette as well," R.J. said sarcastically, watching as the girls flirted with Peter.
Saffron slowly walked over to the compartment door and slid it open.
"There's your girlfriend," the blonde girl whispered to Peter.
"Hey Saf," Peter gave her a smile as she stepped out. "I know you said you weren't hungry but I got you these anyway." he held up some pumpkin pasties.
"You said those were for me Petey," the blonde pouted.
"Well if you want one of them I'm sure it'd be fine," Peter said, coughing nervously. His eyes narrowed slightly as he looked at her. "Whose jumper is that?"
"R.J.'s," Saffron answered. "I was cold and he let me borrow it."
"I could have given you mine," Peter replied.
"You weren't in there," Saffron said. "I would have asked for yours, but you weren't there, Peter. It's not a big deal."
"You look better in blue," the brunette ran her hand down his arm and smiled at Peter.
"Peter," Saffron said trying not to get angry. "What's going on?"
"They're just some of the girls I tutor for extra credit," Peter told her. "This is Miranda and this is Jessie."
"Tutoring," Jessie said giggling. "Is that what we've done..."
"I beg your pardon?" Saffron folded her arms and glared at the girl.
"Come on Saffy," Peter said wrenching himself out of Jessie's grasp on his arm. "Let's go find a compartment of our own."
"Oh I don't know," Saffron said coolly. "Are you sure you don't want Miranda and Jessie to come along for more tutoring?"
"Saffy," Peter said smiling at her. "You're the only girl for me."
Something inside her softened and she smiled back. "Okay," she said, reaching for his hand.
Peter cupped her face in his hands and kissed her. "I love you, Saffy."
"Wh--what?" she stammered, pulling back.
"I love you," he repeated. "I've been wanting to tell you now for quite some time."
Saffron was about to respond when she noticed that Jessie and Miranda were hanging onto his every word. "Come on Pete," she muttered. "Let's go find a compartment."
"Okay," Peter said happily. "Come on then."
R.J. and Alexa watched them go. "She can't seriously have just bought that, Lex."
"It is none of our business," Alexa said as Jessie and Miranda walked away, giggling between themselves.
"Lexie," R.J. said. "She's your best friend. You don't care that she's being snowed by that arse?"
"Of course I care," Alexa replied, shutting the compartment door. "But Saffron's the only one who can make up her own mind. You know she doesn't normally take advice from anyone but her mother or her sister."
"Well remind me to have a few words with Aunt Hermione when we get home," R.J. said. "Saffy's going to be spending more time with Andrew anyway..."
"How?" Alexa asked. "She's avoided him, R.J.."
"He's staying at my house over the holidays," R.J. said mischievously.
"R.J.," Alexa sighed. "Promise me you'll stay out of Saffy's love life. She'll kill you if she knows you're trying to meddle."
"I'm not trying to meddle," R.J. said defensively. "I'm just pushing them together. There's a difference."
"She'd hex you into oblivion," Alexa said. "And you know it."
"Well, if I'm going to get hexed," R.J. said pulling her down on the seat. "How about you make my last minutes worthwhile?"
Alexa smiled at him. "We do have the compartment to ourselves now..."
"Aye we do," he said kissing her.
A few compartments away, Saffron Potter was tongue tied for the first time in her life. She knew Peter expected her to say she loved him back, but she wasn't sure if she did.
"Let's get you out of that jumper," Peter said tugging at it.
"Pete," Saffron pushed his hands away. "Don't, all right?"
"Come on Saffy," Peter said trying again. "You don't need this to keep you warm."
"Yes I do," she said, keeping the jumper pulled down.
Peter bit back his anger. Why did she insist on wearing R.J. Weasley's jumper? "I thought you wanted to snog, Saffy."
"I wanted to get you away from those two girls," Saffron frowned. "If they were any closer they'd be on top of you."
"And I told you they didn't mean anything," he said moving away from her. "What more do I have to do?"
Saffron ran her hands through her hair and sighed, looking out the window. "I don't know," she muttered.
"I can't help that these girls keep coming up to me," Peter said. "I don't want to be mean to them, Saffy. I just stand there and listen to them, but the whole time I'm thinking about being with you. I'd never do anything to hurt you."
This time Saffron let him put his arms around her and she leaned against him. "I'm sorry," she said.
"I'm the one who should be apologising," he said kissing her forehead. "My beautiful Saffron Grace."
Saffron closed her eyes as he trailed his lips down her cheek and kissed her neck.
"I love you," he whispered against her skin.
She didn't say anything- she didn't know what to say to that. She didn't want to lie and say she loved him back so she turned and pressed her lips to his instead.
Outside in the corridor, Andrew and Jason were looking for the sweets cart.
"Are you really going to spend the entire hols at R.J.'s?" Jason asked.
"Yeah my parents have to go out of town for business so I was going to just stay at school but then R.J. asked me to stay at his place." Andrew replied.
"His sisters are pretty hot," Jason commented. "You're a lucky bloke."
"That's just weird," Andrew replied, his eyebrow raised.
"They are," Jason said defensively. As they passed a compartment, Jason caught sight of a familiar couple. "And speaking of hot girls..."
"What?" Andrew turned and looked in the direction Jason was pointing. The smile dropped from his face and he felt like he'd been kicked in the gut.
"Looks like you're officially out of the running," Jason said patting his friend on the back.
"Sod off," Andrew shoved him away.
"There's plenty of other girls out there," Jason said shoving Andrew along.
"Yeah," he muttered. "I'm not really hungry anymore. I'm going back to the compartment."
When Peter snaked his hand underneath her jumper, Saffron stopped him. "Stop, Peter..."
"Come on," he said a bit impatiently. "Why are you being so prude all of a sudden? All week long you've practically been jumping on top of me."
Peter again tried to put his hands under her jumper and Saffron slapped them away. "I said stop it, Peter!"
He glared at her. "What the hell is your problem?"
"Forgive me for not wanting you to grope me here where anyone could walk by," Saffron said sarcastically.
"Well I'll shut the curtains," Peter said. "Problem solved."
"Problem not solved," Saffron said pushing him off of her. "Why can't we just talk instead?"
"Talk," Peter scoffed. "About what?"
"About your plans for the holiday," Saffron said thoughtfully. "What sorts of traditions does your family have? With mine, we always go over to my Gran's and...."
"What?" Peter asked as her eyes suddenly clouded over. "What's wrong?"
"You weren't even listening to me," she pointed out. "Because I don't want to fool around, it's like you wish you were somewhere else!"
"I was too listening!" he argued. "You looked upset so I asked what was wrong!"
Saffron softened. "It's just this is my first holiday without Grandpa and I'm...it's going to be hard for all of us."
"I'm sorry," Peter said in a gentler tone.
"I just keep remembering last year," Saffron said quietly. "When we went over to their house to put up the tree. I had no idea that was the last holiday I'd ever spend with him."
Peter rubbed her back comfortingly, wondering if this would lead back to what they were doing before.
"I really need you Peter," she said softly.
"I need you too," he said eagerly. "I love you Saffron." before she could react, he pulled her to him and kissed her again.
The kiss started out gentle, but it didn't take too look before Peter pushed her right back down on the seat.
"Peter," she said pushing on his chest. "Come on.."
"What?" he asked. "Saffron come on... we're not going to be able to see each other a lot over the next few weeks..."
"I know," she said. "But I was just talking to you about my grandfather and the next thing I know, we're right back to where we were before."
"You kissed me back," he pointed out.
"I know, but you..." Saffron started to explain, but she heard the door slide open. To her relief, Alexa was standing there.
"I, um, well I'm sorry to interrupt," Alexa said uncomfortably. "But Bobby Wagner came by looking for you. You were supposed to be patrolling the corridors."
"Right," Saffron pushed Peter away. "Thanks Lex. I'll go do that now."
Peter frowned. "When were you coming back?"
"I'll be back later," Saffron said, not looking at him.
Alexa followed her friend out. "Saffy, are you okay?"
"I don't know," Saffron confessed. "He's driving me mad Lex. I want to talk to him and all he does is try and grope me."
Alexa put an arm around her. "Saffy, he's changed quite a bit from how he used to be, hasn't he?"
"Yeah," Saffron said. "He used to be so polite and quiet and shy, but sweet. And now it's like all this attention from other girls has gone to his head. And he scares me- he's in there telling me he loves me and I don't love him Lex. Not like that! Not yet..."
"Do you think you ever will?" Alexa asked.
"Not if he keeps up this way," Saffron said, peering into a few compartments as they walked through the corridors.
"I don't think he's going to get any better," Alexa said biting her lip. "Saffy, R.J. and I have seen him with quite a few girls. And I don't think he's tutoring them."
"Do you think he's cheating on me?" Saffron asked her directly.
"I--I don't know for sure," Alexa answered honestly. "But I wouldn't be surprised if he was, Saffy."
Saffron sighed heavily. "When did fancying boys ever get this complicated?" she asked. "I mean... I guess I can't be angry at him if he was- I snogged with Andrew that one night. That would make me a big hypocrite."
"Maybe this few weeks apart will be good for you," Alexa said. "You'll be able to have some time on your own to think about what you really want and who you really want. And maybe Peter will do some thinking too."
"I guess," Saffron wasn't convinced. "Part of me just doesn't want a boyfriend at all right now. I have so much going on."
"You have to do what is best for you," Alexa said. "And I'll be by your side no matter what you decide. You can count on me, Saf. And R.J., too."
"Thanks," Saffron smiled at her. "I'm so glad you're my best friend Lex."
Alexa smiled back. "I'm so glad you're my best friend too."
"Want to help me finish my rounds?" Saffron asked.
"Can I take points from people?" Alexa asked with a giggle. "Give out detentions?"
Saffron laughed. "You wish."
"I'm thirsty for power," Alexa said glad to see her friend laughing again.
"I should let you polyjuice me sometime," Saffron teased. "Then you could get a taste."
"No one would ever buy me as you," Alexa said laughing. In a soft voice, she said "You...you shouldn't be doing that. 10 points from Slytherin."
Saffron laughed harder. "Come on Lex, I'll let you get a bit of practise in," she pointed to a compartment full of third years who were slinging spells back and forth.
"What should I say?" Alexa asked.
"Tell them if they don't stop with the magic, it'll be ten points from each of them." Saffron instructed. "And be forceful about it."
Alexa nodded and repeated under her breath what Saffron had just said. Her hands were shaking as she slid open the compartment door. The group of third-years stared at her.
"You lot!" Alexa said trying to imitate Saffron. "Stop with the magic or I'll take 10 points from each of you."
"And who are you?" a third-year boy asked cheekily.
"Your worst nightmare!" Alexa said shooting him a menacing look.
"You're not a prefect," one of them replied snidely.
"But I am," Saffron glared at them, her badge glinting. "And I'll take off an extra five points if you don't listen."
"We'll stop," a girl said putting her wand away. "We're sorry. We didn't know."
Saffron nodded and pulled on Alexa's arm. "Next time you'll wear my badge," she whispered.
"That was like the coolest thing ever," Alexa said once they were out in the corridor. "You were made for this job, Saffy."
"Imagine me as Head Girl," Saffron replied.
"You've got that in the bag," Alexa said loyally.
"I hope so," Saffron said fervently. They passed by another compartment and saw Andrew and Jason sitting inside with a few other people. "I feel bad for how I've been treating him," she said softly.
"He really fancies you Saffy," Alexa said thoughtfully. "And he's such a great guy."
Saffron pulled her friend into the loo and locked the door. "I've been thinking about him a lot lately," she whispered. "And sometimes, when I'm with Peter, I even pretend it's Andrew."
"Saffy..." Alexa said. "Don't you think that's..."
"So wrong," Saffron finished.
"Okay," Alexa said. "Let's think about this rationally. When you think about Peter, how do you feel Saffy?"
"Definitely not how I used to feel," Saffron replied. "I mean, I guess I still like him, but not how he's acting now. How he used to be when we first got together."
Alexa nodded. "And how do you feel about Andrew?"
Saffron bit her lower lip. "He was so sweet that night- talking to me about my grandpa... I really liked how he made me feel."
"And he makes you laugh..." Alexa prompted.
"Yeah," Saffron said with a smile. "He does."
"And he told R.J. that you were like no girl he's ever met in his entire life," Alexa confided.
"He did?" Saffron asked.
Alexa nodded. "He did."
"Wow," Saffron said, staring out the window at the passing scenery.
"There's...there's something else you should probably know too," Alexa said hesitantly.
"What?" Saffron looked back at her friend.
"Andrew's going be staying with R.J. the entire holiday," Alexa replied. "His parents are going to be away and R.J. didn't want him to be stuck at Hogwarts without anyone..."
"Oh boy," Saffron sighed. "This isn't going to be the easiest of holidays is it?" she asked with a rueful grin.
"Tell you what," Alexa said. "You can help me out at Mum's bakery, if you want. It could help keep your mind off of everything."
"That would be fun," Saffron agreed. "Just part of the time though. I'm actually looking forward to having nothing to do for a change."
"Well you can help out anytime you'd like," Alexa said grinning at her. "You know how much mum and dad like having you around."
"And maybe I can help convince them that you need to spend New Year's Eve with us." Saffron laughed.
"I hadn't thought about that!" Alexa said laughing too.
Nearly an hour later, the train finally arrived at Kings' Cross. Saffron knew she should find Peter to at least give him a proper goodbye, but she wasn't so sure she wanted to see him. Looking out the window, she smiled as she saw both her parents waiting for her with Elinore.
"I'll ring you tonight," Saffron said to Alexa. "Thanks for talking with me today."
"Tell your family hi for me," Alexa called after her friend.
"I will," Saffron called out as she bumped into someone. "Oops sorry..." she said, her smile fading as she saw who it was.
"Saffy," Peter said coolly.
"Hi Peter," Saffron folded her arms. "I guess this is goodbye for two weeks."
"You never came back," Peter said. "Where'd you go?"
"I had to make my rounds and then I was talking to Alexa," Saffron said.
"Oh," Peter said not looking convinced. "So, I guess this is goodbye for two weeks."
"Yeah," Saffron shrugged. "Have a nice holiday." she made no move to kiss him goodbye or even hug him.
"Petey," another one of his fan club sidled up. "You said you'd give me a proper goodbye once we got to King's Cross..."
Saffron rolled her eyes and shot her so called boyfriend a disgusted look before she slung her bag over her shoulder. Without looking back, she made her way through the crowd.
"Where is she?" Elinore asked Hermione.
"She should be getting off the train anytime now," Hermione replied, her eyes searching the crowd for her youngest daughter.
"There she is," Harry said as Saffron waved at them. There were tears in her eyes as she ran toward her grandmother.
"Hi Gran," she said, throwing her arms around Elinore. "I missed you!"
"I missed you too sweetheart," Elinore said hugging her back. "You've gotten even prettier since the last time I saw you."
"Thanks," Saffron brushed her tears out of her eyes. "Hi Mum, hi Dad..." she hugged her parents tightly.
"We've missed you so much," Hermione said. "The house has been too quiet."
"I'll make it good and noisy again I promise," Saffron smiled. "I'm so glad to be home!"
"We're glad to have you home," Harry said.
"How's your back, Saffy?" Hermione asked.
"Where's the bloke that did it," Harry said scanning the crowd. "I'd like to have a word or two."
"It's fine," Saffron assured them. "And Jules already scared the living daylights out of him Dad. It was great. You'd have been so proud."
"What did she do?" Elinore asked.
"She pulled him up for a demonstration in Defence class," Saffron replied. "And she goes on about how these spells she's going to use are so dangerous and all this other rubbish... and then she tells him that there's a good chance he'll wind up in the infirmary... and it was the way she said it- he got all pale and his stupid knobbly knees were knocking together and he almost passed out in front of everyone." Saffron grinned. "It was fabulous."
"That's my girl," Harry said proudly.
"I knew you'd be proud," Saffron said as they headed towards the exit. She passed by Peter with yet another girl and he tried to catch her attention but she ignored him.
"How are you doing Gran?" she asked turning her attention back to Elinore.
"I'm okay Saffy," Elinore smiled at her. "A bit emotional lately. Did you like the pictures I sent you?"
Saffron nodded and tried not to think about looking at them with Andrew. "It brought back some great memories Gran. Thank you for sending them."
"I'm glad," Elinore hugged her. "You meant so much to Robert."
"He meant so much to me too," Saffron said tearfully. "It's not right that he's not here too."
"This won't be an easy Christmas but we'll get through it," Hermione smoothed back her daughter's hair.
"Maddie and Ethan want to take you lot ice skating on the lake by the Burrow," Harry said. "I think they want you mostly for backup though, Saffron."
"I'd want her for backup too," Hermione teased. "Caroline, Emma, Mia, Katie, Ashley...."
"How are Mia and Katie getting along?" Saffron asked. "Jules told me at Caroline's birthday party things were a bit tense..."
"To say the least," Hermione said. "But Katie's at least making an effort for now."
"That's good," Saffron said. "I got all the kids some sweets from Honeydukes the last time we went to Hogsmeade."
"Did anyone mention sweets?" Ron asked grinning at the Potters. He was joined by R.J. and Andrew.
"Hello Ronald," Hermione said warmly. "R.J.."
"Hiya Aunt Hermione," R.J. said grinning at Saffron who had gone quite pale. "I'd like you to meet my best mate Andrew Kirke."
"Hello Andrew," Hermione smiled. "Lovely to meet you."
"Andrew Kirke?" Harry asked.
"Junior," Andrew said.
"Of course! How is your father doing?" Harry asked. "I haven't seen him in years."
"He's fine," Andrew replied. "He and Mum are out of town and R.J. invited me to spend the holidays here at his house."
"That's great," Harry said nodding. "We'll be seeing a great deal of each other. I imagine you and R.J. and Saffy will play a match or two."
"I'll be too busy Dad," Saffron chimed in. "I'm going to help Lex out and I want to spend as much time with Gran as I can."
"Oh come on Saf, you'll have time for a match on Christmas Day," R.J. said, grinning wickedly.
"No I won't," Saffron said through clenched teeth.
"Yes you will," R.J. said still grinning. "I'm sure Mrs. Granger would love to watch you fly. Wouldn't you?"
"You are a charmer just like your father," Elinore said chuckling.
Ron beamed. "I do try and pass my best genes down," he said.
"Don't encourage him Mum," Hermione said.
Saffron turned and her eyes met Andrew's. Butterflies exploded in her stomach as he gave her a slight smile.
"You shouldn't spend your entire holiday worrying about me," Elinore told Saffron. "I want you to have as much fun as you can with your friends."
"I was really sorry to hear about your husband, Dr. Granger," Andrew said sympathetically. "Saffron told me what a great man he was."
"Thank you Andrew," Elinore smiled at him. "That's very thoughtful of you to think about us."
Andrew nodded and Elinore engaged him in conversation about Hogwarts. Hermione walked over to her daughter. "Is that the boy you wrote me about?" she whispered so no one else could hear.
"Yeah," Saffron whispered. "And I really think I fancy him Mum. Peter's been a big jerk lately."
"I think one of our mother-daughter talks is in order when we get back to the house," Hermione said putting an arm around her. "Greta brought by some of the biscuits you like so much."
"Great," Saffron smiled at her mother. "You're the best."
Hermione smiled back. "And you are my sweet girl. Everything's going to be okay, Saffy."
"I bet you miss all the teenage angst don't you Mum," Saffron teased.
"I have enough angst going on with your father and Lavender," Hermione said laughing. "Your Aunt Lavender and Uncle Seamus arrived this morning and Harry's been giving her a hard time about this model she used to date way back when."
"When doesn't Dad give Aunt Lavender a hard time?" Saffron asked dryly.
"I heard that," Harry said turning his attention back to his wife and daughter. "And you should have met this bloke, Saffy. He was really deep. I mean deep."
"Dad stop," Saffron said with a giggle.
"Want to make a bet?" R.J. asked his friend as they watched Saffron laughing with her parents.
"What sort of bet?" Andrew asked.
"I just think by the end of the holiday, you and Saf will be together," R.J. said. "And Petey will be a distant memory."
"Yeah right," Andrew snorted. "You didn't see them sucking face on the train."
"Yes, well you didn't see him snogging that blonde when we were getting our stuff," R.J. said.
"I can't believe he'd cheat on her," Andrew shook his head in disgust.
"He's probably been doing it all along," R.J. said. "But I think you are still in with a chance, my friend. "
"We'll see," Andrew said non committally. "I'm not making any bets."
"Fair enough," R.J. said. "Come on Dad. We'd better get home."
"Sure," Ron replied. "Your mum's making dinner tonight."
"Brilliant," R.J. said grinning.
"We'd better get going too," Harry said.
"We'll see you in a few days," Ron replied.
"Happy Christmas Saffy," Andrew said walking over to her.
"Happy Christmas Andrew," she said softly, staring at him.
"I hope you will play a match or two with R.J. and me," he said echoing her tone. "And if you want to talk about your grandfather..."
"I'll make time," she said. "And thank you. That means a lot to me." she reached for his hand and squeezed it. "I think we have a lot to talk about, actually."
"I think so too," he said. "I'll um, see you later then?"
Saffron nodded. "See you later..."
Andrew exchanged polite goodbyes with her parents and Elinore before following Ron and R.J..
"What a nice, polite boy," Elinore said, following her granddaughter's glance.
"He is," Saffron said smiling.
"Come on," Harry lifted his daughter's trunk. "Let's get home."
*** *** ***
"This sure brings back memories," Seamus said to Harry. The two men were waiting for their wives who were still getting ready for the Ministry's annual Christmas ball. "I think that's one of life's greatest mysteries. Why does it take so bloody long for women to get ready for anything?"
"Tell me about it," Harry agreed. "And Hermione almost never takes this long- only when your wife is around." he teased.
"Early in our marriage, Lav and I used to share a bathroom," Seamus said. "Slowly but surely my things started disappearing until I had one shelf in one of the cabinets. Needless to say when we bought our new house, we both had our own bathrooms. I'm convinced she could live in hers and be a happy woman."
Harry laughed. "Good idea."
Saffron came downstairs carrying a bag. She was going to be staying over at Julie and Nick's tonight.
"Dad! You sure clean up nice. I almost didn't recognise you."
"Thanks Saf," Harry grinned at his daughter. "You all set for the evening?"
"Yes but I don't know why I can't just stay here by myself," Saffron replied.
"Because you promised Ashley and Katie you'd spend some time with them, remember?" Harry asked mussing her hair. "That's all the two of them have been able to talk about is how Aunt Saffy is going to stay with them tonight."
"They weren't arguing?" Seamus asked.
"I didn't say that," Harry said laughing. "They did argue over who was going to spend the most time with her."
"Right," Saffron put her bag over her shoulder.
"Behave yourself," Harry teased giving her a kiss on the cheek.
"You too," Saffron said walking toward the fireplace.
"I'll keep an eye on him," Seamus joked.
"Oh and Mum said that she and Aunt Lav would be right down," Saffron said as she grabbed some floo powder. "Of course, I wouldn't count on that."
"Not where your aunt Lav is concerned," Harry replied.
"I can't believe she's already 15," Seamus commented after Saffron left. "It seems like just yesterday, Hermione was pregnant with her."
"I know," Harry shook his head. "And she's dating..."
"Not going to go all Neville on us are you?" Seamus asked.
"If I do, you have permission to hex me," Harry laughed. "No I'm not that bad. But Saffy's my baby and it's hard for me to see her grow up."
"I can certainly understand that," Seamus said. He looked at the clock on the mantle and sighed. "Lavender! Would you hurry the hell up? We're going to be late!"
"We'll be down in a minute Seamus!" Lavender yelled back impatiently.
"When you say a minute," Seamus called back. "Do you mean a minute in the ordinary, normal sense of the word or are we operating on Lavender Standard Time?"
Hermione laughed. "You know her too well!"
"He has no concept of what it takes to be beautiful," Lavender said checking her reflection in the mirror one more time. She looked at her cousin who was wearing a gorgeous emerald green ball gown. "If I do say so myself, you look fantastic in that Lavender Brown Finnigan original."
"I can't imagine anyone looking bad in your clothes Lav," Hermione replied.
"I could even make that hag Ginny Malfoy look presentable," Lavender said wickedly.
"And that's really saying something," Hermione shook her head. "All right- shall we head out?"
"Let's go and turn some heads," Lavender said grinning at her cousin.
"Especially our husbands'," Hermione laughed.
Hermione and Lavender walked out of the bedroom and down the corridor toward the staircase. Their husbands were standing at the foot of the stairs with their backs to the women.
"Do you ever notice how long it takes them to go to the loo?" Seamus asked Harry.
Harry nodded. "Or why they can never go to the bathroom without another woman going with them. I have never understood that one!"
"Are you both still complaining?" Lavender asked haughtily. "I think Hermione and I should just go pick up two guys who won't complain so much."
Seamus and Harry sheepishly turned around.
"Maybe you could get Marcus the Model back?" Harry asked teasingly. "Or is he off heading up some brain trust? Or is he contemplating the meaning of life?"
"Sod off," Lavender frowned at him. "You never change Harry."
"And neither do you," Harry said smiling at her.
"Maybe we should find old Marcus and introduce him to Summer," Seamus teased his wife.
"She is such an airhead," Lavender rolled her eyes.
Hermione knew Harry was about to say something smart in response. Heading him off, she took his hand. "Shall we go then?"
"Sure," Harry smiled at her. "You look stunning, by the way."
"The colour kind of reminds me of someone's eyes," Hermione said leaning forward to kiss his cheek.
Harry turned so she'd kiss him on the lips instead. "I wonder who that could be..."
"Come on rabbits," Lavender said pulling them apart. "We have to get going. We don't want to be late."
"We'll continue this later," Harry whispered in her ear as he helped his wife with her cloak.
Meanwhile at the Ministry's ballroom, the festivities were well underway. Neville and Cho arrived with Ron and Luna.
"How many of these have we gone to now?" Ron asked his wife.
"Quite a few," Luna replied. "Maddie was really excited about this, you know. This is her first one."
"Are Drew and Darla coming?" Cho asked them.
Ron nodded. "I can't tell you how good it is to have all my girls close like this."
Luna smiled and leaned against him. "They're so happy to spend time with you too."
After all that had happened with Drew, it was great to see her finally becoming more like her old self again. Her smiles didn't seem forced anymore and she genuinely seemed ready to start her life over.
"I heard that Caroline, Mia and Katie started dance lessons," Luna said conversationally to Cho.
"Heard?" Ron chortled. "That's all Caroline can talk about. Well that and her Uncle Will."
"It's so sweet that she fancies him," Luna said. "And he's wonderful with her."
"And little Emma," Neville said laughing. "You heard about the story she tried to tell me, didn't you?"
"No," Ron chortled. "What was it?"
"Basically it was about me being this mean King who couldn't understand about his daughter the princess falling in love with the handsome prince."
"That sounds about right," Ron said smugly. "She obviously left out the part about me being the handsome, taller, nicer King, of course, but I'll have to remind her all about that next time I see her."
"You don't want to scar her for life do you?" Neville retorted playfully.
"Well, in that particular story, I was the nicer King," Ron pointed out.
"Ronald, you do realise we're not royalty," Luna chimed in. "Right?"
"Of course we are," Ron said with a saucy grin. "Weasley is our King..."
"My favourite song!" Neville exclaimed. "Let's see if I remember it...Weasley cannot save a thing. He cannot block a single ring..."
Ron scowled. "I won the Quidditch Cup thank you."
"I used to love watching him fly," Luna said dreamily. "And he'd get so nervous and he'd have this really dazed expression on his face...."
"Because he was really thinking about what was for dinner that night," Neville interjected.
"I was thinking that there was a hot blonde in a lion's hat watching me fly," Ron said winking at his wife.
"Good answer," Luna gave him a kiss. "Oh Ronald- the girls are here!"
Ron turned to see his three daughters coming toward them with Ethan. Drew was wearing an ivory-coloured floor-length ball gown. Her hair was swept up in an elegant twist. Darla's strapless ball gown was royal blue and showed off her svelte figure. And Maddie looked positively radiant on the arm of her boyfriend.
"Have I told you that you look absolutely gorgeous tonight?" Ethan murmured in his girlfriend's ear. Maddie's ball gown was a shimmering baby blue, and she'd pinned up half her hair and left the rest flowing down her back in spiralling curls.
"Yes, but I don't mind hearing it again," Maddie whispered back.
"I'm not going to be able to let you out of my sight," Ethan's hand rested on her waist. "Some other bloke might come and try to snag you up."
Maddie giggled. "I'm already taken so those blokes are out of luck."
Drew looked around at the crowd of people and fought the urge to go running back up the stairs.
"Dar," Drew whispered. "Maybe this wasn't such a good idea."
"Why?" Darla put a hand on her sister's arm.
"I just didn't realise there'd be so many people here," Drew replied.
"Come on," Darla said reassuringly. "We're going to have loads of fun here tonight Drew. And who knows, you might even meet a nice guy."
"Not likely," Drew said shaking her head.
"There's Mum and Dad!" Maddie said nudging Drew. "Come on..."
"You three look beautiful," Ron beamed with pride at his daughters.
"Thanks Dad," Drew said giving him a hug.
"Mum, you look amazing," Darla said beaming at Luna.
"Thank you love," Luna kissed her daughter's cheek. "We're so glad you decided to come tonight."
"Me too," Darla said sharing a look with her twin.
"Ethan," Neville said grinning at him. "I saw Justin awhile ago. He was with his fiancée Sarah and they were talking in the strangest language..."
Ethan shook his head. "That's their baby talk they do... it's really disgusting."
"I think I might have to bring this up at the next briefing," Neville said mischievously.
Ethan laughed. "I think you should."
"Oh no," Maddie groaned catching sight of a familiar dark-haired woman working her way through the crowd. "I had no idea she was going to be here!"
"Who?" Neville turned. "Is that Parvati Patil?"
"Ron Ron!" Parvati exclaimed excitedly. "I thought I saw you!"
Drew looked at Darla and mouthed the words "Ron Ron". Darla just shrugged.
"Hello Parvati," Ron said guardedly.
"Hello Loo---I mean Luna," Parvati said smiling at the blonde. Her attention turned to Cho and Neville. "Cho Chang! I haven't seen you in ages. How are you?"
"Good," Cho smiled politely. "It's nice to see you again Parvati."
"And who's this handsome bloke?" Parvati asked grinning flirtatiously at Neville.
"Oh you remember Neville don't you?" Cho asked. "Neville Longbottom? He's my husband."
"Am I that different?" Neville asked with a laugh.
Parvati looked at Cho as if she'd suddenly sprouted another head. "You married Neville Longbottom? Come on, Cho! You were one of the prettiest, most popular girls in the entire school. I remember Neville Longbottom and he most certainly never looked like that!"
The smile on Cho's face flickered as Neville's grin turned into a frown. "I know who I married," she said in a cooler tone. "And yes, this is Neville."
"You certainly have changed," Parvati said stepping closer for a better look. "And for the better, I must say."
"Thanks I think," Neville backed away. "Cho- how about we go get a drink?"
"I'd say that was an excellent idea," Cho said glaring at Parvati as she and Neville walked away.
"Madeline," Parvati said smiling at the younger woman. "You look lovely as always. You have that same natural look as your mother. Not too many women can pull that off, you know."
"Thank you," Maddie replied in a polite tone. "You look nice too."
"I made this myself," Parvati said proudly doing a little spin.
"We would have been here sooner, but Lavender held us up as always," Harry said coming up to join the group with Hermione, Seamus and Lavender in tow.
"Harry!" Parvati exclaimed embracing him.
"Hi..." Harry said. "Parvati?"
She beamed at him. "Of course! I've been meaning to come and visit with you, but I've been busy trying to straighten out my department."
"It's uh... nice to see you again," Harry cast a glance at his wife. "Been awhile..."
"Yes it has!" Parvati said still holding on to Harry. "And this must be your wife. It's nice to meet you, Minister."
"Likewise," Hermione replied, moving closer to her husband.
"Who is this person?" Lavender whispered to Seamus.
"Parvati Patil," Seamus whispered back. "We used to go to school with her. If you want reference- she's a lot like Summer, only she can be vicious when provoked."
"Ever since I came back, I've been hit by all these surprises," Parvati said. "You and Ron Ron are grandfathers! And Cho Chang married that nebbish Neville Longbottom! Can you believe that?"
"Well... it's been quite a long time..." Harry disentangled himself from Parvati's grip as her eyes landed on Seamus.
"Seamus?" Parvati asked uncertainly. "Is that really you?"
"Hey," Seamus smiled at her. "Yup, really me."
"And I'm really his wife," Lavender said stepping in front of Parvati before she could hug Seamus. "Lavender Finnigan."
"Seamus YOU got married?" Parvati laughed. "Remember our last year at Hogwarts when we dated? You said you weren't getting married!"
"Things change," Seamus said with a nervous laugh.
"You dated?" Lavender asked turning to look at her husband. "You dated---"
"Did we date!" Parvati asked laughing. "We did a lot more than date!"
"Really," Lavender said, her voice becoming icy.
"We didn't date that long," Seamus said hastily.
"Friends with benefits," Parvati said with a wink.
"I wouldn't say that," Seamus said quietly.
"He helped mend my broken heart after Ron Ron trampled all over it," Parvati said in a baby voice.
"I'm sure you were so hurt," Lavender deadpanned.
"Oooh!" Parvati said ignoring Lavender. "I love this song! Come on, Seamus!"
Before Lavender or anyone else could do anything, Parvati grabbed Seamus' hand and led him away.
"I," Lavender said slowly. "Hate. That. Woman."
"Join the club," Maddie said darkly. "She's making everyone down in my department completely mad."
"Ron Ron?" Darla asked her father. "Care to explain?"
"Not really," Ron replied.
"Did everyone in Gryffindor date her?" Ethan asked Harry. "Sounds like she made her way around."
"She did," Harry replied. "Come on, let's go dance or go get something to eat. I don't want to spend the party talking about Parvati."
"I vote for dancing," Hermione said grinning at him.
"Works for me," Harry kissed his wife and led her onto the ballroom floor.
"I vote for eating, then dancing," Ron said.
Ethan laughed. "Save some for me. Mads, I'll be right back. I just want to have a quick word with Justin."
"Don't be gone too long," Maddie smiled at him. "I want to dance with you."
Ethan gave her a kiss before walking away.
"Where are my handsome brothers tonight?" Darla asked sitting down beside Ron.
"Josh and Lizzy aren't coming," Ron said. "And Jon and Allie will be by later."
"I can't wait to catch up with them," Darla said. "I haven't been able to see them as much with how busy we've been with the move."
"And how about the youngest Weasley?" Drew asked.
"He's out with Alexa tonight," Luna replied.
"It's hard for me to think of little Junior dating," Drew said. "To me he's always going to be that little boy who used to follow Maddie around."
"I don't know what your mother's going to do when he moves out," Ron joked.
"He's my baby," Luna said defensively.
"And what about you Mads," Drew turned to her baby sister with a smile. "When's Ethan going to propose already?"
"I don't know," Maddie said blushing. "We've both been so busy lately. It will happen when the time's right. And you all will be the first to know."
A young man with dark hair tapped Drew on the shoulder. "Pardon me, but would you fancy a dance?"
"You want to dance with me?" Drew asked in surprise before she could stop herself.
He smiled at her. "I'd like that very much indeed. What do you say?"
"Um...." Drew tried frantically to come up with a reason why she couldn't dance but was unable to. "All right..." she smiled tentatively. "Thank you."
"The pleasure's all mine," he said offering her his hand.
Darla grinned as her twin was led off to the dance floor. "I knew someone would ask her to dance." she said happily.
"How's she doing?" Luna asked.
"She's better Mum," Darla replied. "The day we left Ireland for good was hard for her but I think she's going to be all right."
"You didn't tell me your name," Drew said smiling nervously at her dance partner.
"Brian McGregor," he replied smiling down at her.
"Drew Weasley," she introduced herself.
"I remember you," he said. "We were at Hogwarts together. You were in Gryffindor and I was in Ravenclaw. We had Care of Magical Creatures together."
"I thought you looked somewhat familiar," Drew said, feeling more at ease. "What do you do now?"
"I actually work in the Misuse of Muggle Artefacts department," Brian replied. "In fact, I worked with your grandfather the last year before he retired."
"That's fantastic," Drew smiled at him. "That's a really neat department."
"And what about you?" Brian asked. "Last time I spoke with your grandfather, he said you and your sister were coordinating weddings?"
"That's right," Drew said, amazed that this guy knew so much about her.
Brian dipped her causing Drew to giggle. "I always wanted to do that!"
"She's having fun," Darla said in delight. "Look at her!"
"I don't know who that bloke is but if he can get my Drew to smile like that," Ron said grinning at Luna. "He's okay with me."
Maddie smiled. "I get the feeling that she's going to be very happy again soon..." she said softly.
"Did you have a vision?" Luna asked.
"No," Maddie replied. "Just something I can sense when I'm connected to someone," she explained as Ethan sat back down next to her.
"Uncle Seamus still not back, Aunt Lav?" Ethan asked.
"No," Lavender glared at the dance floor. "And if he doesn't come back soon he's sleeping alone tonight."
"I can't believe you ever went out with that woman Dad," Darla said looking at her father.
"I was a stupid teenager," Ron replied defensively.
"And he never dances!" Lavender suddenly erupted. "He never dances! I practically have to beg him to dance with me and he lets that evil woman drag him off!"
"He was probably just trying to be nice," Ethan said.
Out on the dance floor, the song came to an end and Brian took Drew's hand to lead her back to her table.
Another couple were breezing past them and Drew wouldn't have noticed if she hadn't heard the woman call out the man's name.
"Paul!"
Drew froze. "Oh no," she whispered.