Authors' note: Thanks guys for the responses! We both appreciate it. And please be patient with me (Amy) as Heaven is on vacation and I'm in charge of updating the story and responding to reviews until she gets back. It's a lot easier when the two of us handle that together. So please be patient with me! And for those of you who haven't, please check out Miscard's Harmony Podcast. Miscard has done an amazing job on it and she should be commended for all the hard work she puts into that-blood, sweat and tears.
Brian felt Drew tense up beside him. "What's wrong?" he asked.
"Nothing," she said. "I just um... I need to talk to my sister."
"Okay," Brian said. "We can go--"
"Drew?" Paul asked stopping in his tracks.
Drew bit her lower lip. "Hello Paul," she said softly.
"What---what are you doing in London?" he asked quietly.
"I live here now," Drew said, crossing her arms over her chest.
"And...and the baby?" he asked, his voice barely above a whisper.
"Don't," Drew said sharply. "I know you don't care."
"It's my kid too," Paul said angrily. "What did you have?"
"I didn't," Drew said, tears filling her eyes. "Okay? I miscarried. Is that what you wanted to hear, you bastard?"
"You don't have to lie, Drew," Paul shot back. "You know I'm not going to take it from you or anything..."
"Why would I lie?" Drew asked, her voice shaking.
"You're still mad that I didn't want to get married," Paul replied as if the answer should have been obvious. "So you're trying to get back at me."
Darla turned around to see if Drew was still dancing. "Oh no...."
Ron followed Darla's gaze and his face tightened. "That wanker," he said angrily, getting up.
"I don't want to marry you," Drew said coldly. "And I would NEVER, EVER use a child to get back at you."
"Paul, who is this?" his date asked draping an arm over his shoulder.
"No one," Paul said looking right at Drew. "No one at all."
Drew laughed harshly. "Was that supposed to hurt my feelings?" she asked sarcastically.
"Look," Paul said getting in her face. "You and I didn't work out. It happens. You need to move on, Drew."
"Mate, I think you need to back off," Brian said shoving Paul. "Leave the lady alone."
"And who the hell are you?" Paul retorted.
"Drew," Ron said putting a hand on his daughter's arm. "Are you okay?"
"Mr. Weasley," Paul said reverting back to his charm mode. "Long time, no see."
"Back off," Ron said, glaring at the young man. "I know how you got my daughter pregnant and left her. And before you learn what my fist will do to your face, you'd best walk away."
"I don't know what Drew's told you," Paul said. "But I think you need to remember there are two sides to the story. All I wanted to know was what she had and she throws this lie at me. I'm not going to try and take her kid, okay? I just wanted to know."
Ron's fist clenched as Drew scoffed. "Do you think I'd lie about having a miscarriage you idiot?" she asked, tears welling in her eyes as Darla came up beside her. "Do you have any idea how bloody scared I was lying in the hospital and what it felt like when they told me that my baby was dead?"
Paul stared at her. "You---you're not lying?"
"No, she's not you wanker!" Darla glared fiercely at him.
"Drew---" Paul said reaching out for her arm.
"Now you care?" Ron asked looking murderously at him.
"Look--" Paul began.
"Just walk away," Drew said. "I don't want your sympathy."
Paul nodded wordlessly and finally followed his date off the dance floor.
"Come on I'll get you a glass of water," Darla held her sister's hand. "Let's go sit down okay?"
"Okay," Drew said. Her eyes fell on Brian who was still standing beside her father. "Brian, I'm sorry you had to see that."
"I had no idea Drew," Brian said. "I'm so sorry about your loss." the sympathy in his eyes was sincere.
"You weren't to know," Drew said softly.
"Is there anything I can do to help?" he asked, sitting next to her.
She shook her head. Ron walked over and knelt down in front of his daughter. He handed her a handkerchief. "I'm so proud of you, Drew."
"Thanks Dad," she managed a shaky smile.
"I never could stand to see you cry," Ron said, his own voice catching in his throat.
"I know," she whispered. "I'll be okay I promise."
Ron tilted her chin up so she'd look at him. "Of that I have no doubt. My Drew is a smart, strong woman."
"I'm trying to be," she said, taking a sip of the water her twin brought over.
"I just wish I could have done something more to protect you," Ron said guiltily.
"We know, Dad," Darla said.
"I just want to have a good time tonight," Drew said, setting the glass down. "I don't want to let Paul Davies ruin my evening."
"How about another dance?" Brian suggested.
"Sure," Drew said. "I am sorry about all that, Brian. I hope I didn't scare you off."
"I wasn't in Gryffindor, but I'd like to think I'm brave enough not to let a wanker ex-boyfriend scare me off," Brian said smiling at her.
"I don't know who you are, but I like you," Ron said shaking his hand.
Brian grinned. "Brian McGregor. Pleasure to meet you."
"Go dance with my daughter," Ron ordered.
"Dad!" Drew said blushing.
"Go have some fun," Darla grinned at her.
"Okay," Drew said smiling at her sister. "I think I will."
Out on the dance floor, Harry and Hermione were oblivious to all that was going on around them.
"It's really cold this time of year, isn't it," Harry commented.
"And getting colder," Hermione moved closer to him. "Mmmm… I love dancing with you. It never gets old."
"No, it doesn't," he said holding her close. "I was planning on waiting until Christmas, but I wanted to ask you how you'd feel about something..."
"What's that?" she asked, her eyes closed as she leaned against him.
"I have some time off after the first of the year," Harry said. "And Saffy will be back at school, and I was thinking perhaps we could go back to the Swan Islands...."
"A second honeymoon?" Hermione asked with a smile.
"Exactly," he said. "What do you think? Do-able?"
"Very," Hermione replied, kissing him. "I already can't wait."
"I think you'll like some of the things I bought you for Christmas then," Harry said with a glint in his eyes.
"Give me a hint," Hermione said with a laugh.
"Well," Harry said thoughtfully. "Some of these things will come in really handy when we're on the islands."
"Oooh," Hermione wound her arms around his neck. "I love your way of thinking Potter..."
"So you think the Ministry can do without you just this once?" he asked.
"They've done without me before," Hermione replied. "I have no problems leaving Samuel in charge..."
"Two weeks," he said giving her a kiss. "No work, no responsibilities. Just you and me."
"Just you and me..." Hermione echoed dreamily.
*** *** ***
Ethan was heading out for the day when he stopped by his father's office. "Hey Dad," he knocked on the doorframe. "Spare a minute?"
"Always," Harry said smiling at him. "What's on your mind?"
"Well," Ethan sat down on the sofa. "I want to get Maddie something for Christmas, and I wondered if you, Mum and Saffy would mind keeping it for me until then."
"Sure," Harry said with a shrug, thinking it was a necklace or even a ring that he didn't want Maddie finding.
"Well the thing is, I want to get her a Cornish Pixie," Ethan revealed with a grin.
Harry chuckled. "Ethan James..."
"I know, but she still talks about Dolly all the time," Ethan replied. "And I thought she'd really like having another one."
"It's a thoughtful gift son, but you do remember how Dolly was a bit of a loose cannon," Harry said. "You remember what she did to Ron's old Cannons shirt, right?"
"Who could forget?" Ethan asked. "But Maddie handled her pretty well- and Dolly adored her."
"That's true," Harry said. "So have you....bought the pixie yet?"
"Not yet." Ethan replied. "I wanted to see if you'd be able to keep it for me first. There's one at this shop near Knockturn Alley that has one- looks just like Dolly."
"I think it will be okay with your mum and Saffy," Harry said. "We'd be happy to keep it for you, Ethan."
"That's fantastic Dad," Ethan replied. "Thanks- I'll go get it and bring it by in an hour or so."
Harry wondered what mess he was getting his family into when he agreed to Ethan's request. But, it was only going to be for a few days. He arrived home after finishing up his paperwork to find Saffron baking biscuits in the kitchen. She hadn't inherited her mother's bad cooking skills and had learned quite a bit from Greta.
"Hi, Daddy," she said smiling up at him. "I didn't hear you come in."
"Hello, sweetheart," Harry grinned back. "What are you making?"
"Chocolate chip," Saffron replied. "And I just finished with some gingersnaps. Greta's recipes."
"It sure smells fantastic," Harry replied. "Can't wait to sample."
Saffron smiled. In the distance, they both heard a door slam. "Aunt Lav," Saffron said rolling her eyes. "She's still not talking to Uncle Seamus."
"What- over him dancing with Parvati?" Harry shook his head. "Ever the drama queen," he muttered, setting his briefcase on the counter.
"It gets better," Saffron said. "Miss Patil apparently sent him a gift basket to thank him for spending time with her at the ball. Aunt Lav practically turned purple she was so angry."
"Why didn't Seamus just chuck it then?" Harry asked, looking through the post.
"Well it was a little hard to do when she threw it against the wall," Saffron said. "Mum came home about an hour ago and she's gone upstairs to take a kip. I think she put a silencing charm on the bedroom so she wouldn't have to hear it."
"Ethan's coming by in a half hour," Harry told her. "He's buying Maddie a Cornish Pixie for Christmas and we're keeping it here until he gives it to her."
"Cool," Saffron said. "It will be like having the dog I always wanted and you never gave me."
"You're not home to take care of a dog," Harry reminded her. "Once you're out of school, then we'll talk."
"You're here," Saffron pointed out. "And you could watch out for it while I was away at school."
"Saffy, I'm not home often enough to take care of a dog, especially to train it." Harry replied firmly.
"You're home enough," Saffron said. When she saw the look on her father's face, she decided to drop it. "Okay, okay. When I am out of Hogwarts, I'm going to have two dogs."
"You can have whatever you want; especially once you've got your own place." Harry replied.
"So, I suppose while you're off at work, I get to baby sit the pixie then?" Saffron asked.
"If you don't mind," Harry replied. "You won't have to do a lot- just feed it. I know your brother would appreciate it."
"Fine," Saffron said with a sigh. "I'll just pretend it's a dog."
"Thank you," Harry grinned as he heard the fireplace in the sitting room whoosh. "That's probably him now."
"I bet if Ethan wanted a dog, he'd have gotten one," Saffron said under her breath.
"Enough," Harry said firmly.
"Here it is," Ethan said, holding a large black cage in his arms. "Thanks again, Dad. Hey Saf." he grinned at his sister.
"Hello, Golden Boy," Saffron said returning her attention back to the cookie dough.
"What?" Ethan was confused. "What are you talking about?"
"Nothing," Saffron said glaring at her father's back.
"It certainly does bear a remarkable resemblance to Dolly," Harry said stepping closer to get a better look.
"Even has the little red markings," Ethan said in satisfaction. "I can't wait until she sees it."
"She's going to love it," Harry said taking the cage from Ethan and setting it on the counter.
"Wonder what she'll name it?" Saffron wondered aloud.
"Probably Dolly," Ethan laughed.
"Okay you little devil," Saffron said peering into the cage. "I'm going to be taking care of you the next few days...."
"Thanks Saf," Ethan chucked her under the chin. "I owe you one."
"Do you remember where Mum and Dad hide the presents?" Saffron whispered.
Ethan chuckled. "Try the hidden shelf in the hall closet. That's where they used to put them," he whispered back. Straightening back up, he looked over at his father. "Hey Dad- can I have a quick word? In private?"
"Sure," Harry said setting the post aside.
Ethan followed his father into the downstairs office and closed the door behind them. "I want to ask you something... it might be a little personal."
"Okay," Harry said slowly. "Shoot."
"How... how did you know you were ready to marry Mum?" Ethan asked in a rush.
Harry smiled. "I had a feeling that was this was about." He sat down on the sofa. "Well, I don't know if I can pinpoint the exact moment I knew, Ethan."
"It's just that I've been thinking a lot about proposing lately and I don't really know what I'm waiting for. I love Maddie and I know someday that I'll make her my wife." Ethan ran a hand through his messy hair.
"You sound just like me," Harry said. "All those years ago knowing I was going to ask her, but waiting for that moment. The right time, the perfect moment."
"I was thinking New Year's," Ethan replied.
"Have you bought the ring yet?" Harry asked.
Ethan shook his head. "I wanted to ask Jules to help me find a nice one."
"She'll be a better help to you than Neville was to me," Harry said.
Ethan smiled. "Makes me nervous a bit... getting married."
"It is a big step," Harry said nodding. "And I felt the same way, you know."
"Scared as hell?" Ethan asked.
"Very," Harry said. "I spoke with your grandfather to get his approval before I did it. That was the scariest part."
"Maybe I'll go talk to Uncle Ron," Ethan mused. "Thanks Dad. I have a few ideas now."
"Good luck son," Harry said. He and Ethan walked back toward the kitchen and heard Saffron cry out in pain.
"Saffy?" Harry rushed into the kitchen. "What's wrong? Did you burn yourself?"
"No," Saffron said covering her finger with a dish towel. "I was thinking the pixie might be hungry so I put some cookie dough on my finger and stuck it in the cage. It nearly bit my finger off!"
"Shite," Ethan sighed. "Figures I had to get a nasty one." he peered into the cage.
"Let me see," Harry said walking over to Saffron. He pulled back the dish towel.
"I'll get a bandage," Ethan said, reaching up into the cupboard. "How bad is it?"
"Bad," Saffron said wincing.
"Something smells delicious," Hermione said coming into the kitchen. She saw the blood on the dish towel and saw Saffron's face contorted in pain. "What on earth is going on?"
"Um..." Ethan began. "I bought a Cornish Pixie for Maddie and Saffy was trying to feed it and it bit her."
Hermione looked at the cage on the counter and saw the Cornish Pixie looking innocently at her. Shaking her head, she walked over to Saffron. "Keep applying pressure to it, Saffy."
"I will," Saffron said, biting her lower lip. "Stupid pixie..."
"You'll still keep it won't you?" Ethan asked. "I'm sure it's just because he's probably not used to being in a new place. It was probably an isolated incident."
"We'll still keep it," Harry replied. "I'll feed it."
"There you go, Golden Boy," Saffron said sarcastically.
"I'm really sorry, Saffy," Ethan said contritely.
"I'll put some salve on that," Hermione said walking over to the cabinet. "It doesn't look to be too deep a wound."
"I hope not," Saffron said. "I'm sorry I snapped at you, Ethan."
"It's okay," he said mussing her hair. "I am sorry he bit you, Saf. Really."
"It'll be all right," she smiled grudgingly at him.
"It certainly looks innocent enough," Hermione said looking over her shoulder at the cage.
"That's what they used to say about me," Harry said cheekily.
"Dad, I'm sure you were never innocent," Saffron wisecracked.
Harry looked at his youngest with mock indignation. "I'll have you know that I have a very innocent, sweet disposition, Saf."
Ethan, Hermione and Saffron all looked at each other and burst into laughter.
"I can't be innocent and sweet?" Harry asked glaring at them all.
"I love you, Daddy, but you're not innocent," Saffron giggled.
"You are sweet," Hermione smiled at him. "But we won't let anyone know that."
"Wouldn't want to ruin my reputation or anything," Harry said putting an arm around his wife. The timer on the oven went off and since Saffron was hurt, Ethan told her he'd get the biscuits from the oven.
"Man these smell fantastic, Saf," Ethan said, pulling them out. "Can I snag a few for Mads?"
"Sure," Saffron replied. "I'm going to bring some by to Uncle Ron and Aunt Luna later too."
"You won't get through the door," Harry predicted. "Ron will eat them right out of your hands."
"I made extra so Aunt Luna can have a couple at least," Saffron said. She looked at her brother. "I miss us all being here like this. It doesn't happen near enough. All we're missing is Julie."
"I know," Hermione said wistfully. "She's taking the girls Christmas shopping for Nick tonight."
"Poor Julie," Ethan mused.
Hermione swatted her son's arm. "Don't talk about your nieces that way."
"Come on Mum," Ethan said. "Even you have to admit when you put Ash and Katie in the same room, you're just asking for trouble. I love them to death, you know that, but that's the truth."
"Ethan's right Mum," Saffron replied. "For once..."
Ethan nudged her. "Thanks, Saffy."
"Maybe, they'll grow out of it," Hermione said optimistically.
"Hopefully," Harry snagged a biscuit off the tray. "Excellent sweetheart." he grinned at his daughter.
"Thanks Daddy," Saffron said smiling at him.
"So," Ethan said. "What's this about you having a boyfriend?"
Saffron's smile turned into a scowl. "I don't know how much longer I want to go out with him."
"I like the sound of that," Harry said but when he saw how upset Saffron seemed at the mention of Peter, the smile on his face fell.
Hermione put a hand on her daughter's shoulder. "It's like I said the other day- you're still young, you have plenty of time for boys. You'll find someone that makes you really happy."
Saffron's mind briefly skipped to Andrew and she nodded.
"All teasing aside, you're a good girl, Saffy," Ethan said. "And if any of those blokes give you any trouble, you just let me know and I'll take care of it."
Saffron smiled. "Thanks Ethan. R.J. said the same thing."
Seamus came into the kitchen looking very much like he'd been put through the wringer.
"I'm going out for awhile," he said. "Visit my folks."
"Lavender sticking around?" Hermione asked.
"I don't know," he said. "She's not talking to me, remember?"
"I'll say something to her if you want," Hermione put a hand on his arm. "You really didn't do anything wrong Seamus."
"I tried to get away from Parvati at the ball," Seamus said. "She wouldn't leave me alone, Hermione. And I didn't want to cause a scene. Lavender acts like I took her and..."
"We all know how Parvati is," Harry replied.
"She's making Maddie's life a living hell at work," Ethan said leaning on the counter.
"What's she doing?" Hermione asked. "I had a talk with Smythe this past week but if Parvati's still causing trouble I'll call her up for a conference."
"You'd need to talk to Maddie," Ethan replied. "It's a load of things really."
"I'll have her come up tomorrow," Hermione nodded.
Seamus excused himself and promised to try and be back for dinner.
"I've got to get home as well." Ethan said, glancing at his watch. "I'm taking Mads out for dinner tonight."
"We'll take care of the Pesky Pixie for you," Saffron said. "He'd better not bite me again though."
"Don't stick your finger in there anymore," Ethan teased, pulling on his sister's long plait.
"I was trying to be nice!" Saffron said swatting at him. Ethan was too quick for her and disapparated before she could lay a hand on him.
"What do my two girls feel like having for dinner tonight?" Harry asked.
"I'm up for anything," Hermione said, sliding her arms around Harry's waist.
"Beef stew?" Saffron suggested. "You promised you'd make some while I was home Dad."
"Sure," Harry agreed. "You want to help?"
"Just like old times," Saffron said grinning at him.
"I can still remember coming home from work finding you in this apron that was way too big for you," Hermione told Saffron. "Standing on a step ladder and helping your father cook."
"How old was I?" Saffron asked interestedly.
"Three," Hermione said laughing. "And determined to help him out."
"You followed me everywhere," Harry said smiling at her. "My little shadow."
"Little did I know," Saffron deadpanned.
"Very funny," Harry said. "You finished baking?"
"Yes," Saffron said sweetly. "Will you clean up?"
"Nice try," Harry said. "You made the mess, Saffron Grace."
"I'm the cook," Saffron gave her mother a pouty look. "Please, Mummy?"
"Harry, honestly," Hermione took out her wand and waved it. "That's all you had to do. She baked these from scratch with no magic."
"That's good," Harry said grinning at his wife. "Because she's not allowed to do magic outside of school."
"Duh," Saffron rolled her eyes. "Thanks Mum." she grinned at her mother. "Can I have a dog?"
"Saffron..." Hermione said. "I thought we discussed this already."
"You mean you've already hit your mother up?" Harry asked. "Saffron Grace--"
"I know," Saffron interjected. "I'm going to go upstairs and ring Lex."
Hermione shook her head as Saffron walked out of the kitchen. Once she was out of earshot, Hermione smiled at her husband. "Do you think she has any idea?"
"No way," Harry grinned back. "I think we've managed to make her think otherwise."
"The puppy is so cute," Hermione said referring to the puppy which was staying with Neville and Cho until Christmas. "She's going to love it, Harry."
"I can't wait to see her face," Harry chuckled. "And I can't wait to see what Maddie thinks of this thing."
"She'll love it like she loved Dolly," Hermione said smiling at the Cornish Pixie.
"She'll probably name this one the same thing," Harry said, taking the cage into the sitting room. "I'll get it some water."
"You know you didn't welcome me properly," she reminded him. "I haven't seen you since this morning."
"You mean you want me to shag you right here?" Harry asked in a smartass tone.
"No," she said frowning. "I meant a kiss."
"I knew that," Harry teased, leaning in and pressing his lips to hers.
"That's more like it," Hermione said when they pulled apart. "I've been thinking about our trip, you know."
"Have you now?" he asked. "I've been thinking about it too..."
Hermione nodded. "I wonder if it's changed any. It's been so long since we were there."
"Long as I'm with you, I don't care," Harry said, wrapping his arms around her.
Saffron came back downstairs grumbling under her breath. Ethan's little tip about where the presents might be hidden hadn't turned up anything.
"Okay Dad," she said. "Ready to start dinner..." she covered her eyes. "Will you two please stop snogging in front of me? I'm already scarred for life!"
Hermione laughed. "You're right, Saffy. We should set a better example for you."
"And I'm sure you haven't snogged your boyfriend at school at all this year," Harry said with a straight face.
"I haven't," Saffron said with an even straighter face. "I've been too busy for such things..."
"I'm sure," Harry deadpanned.
"Okay enough talk about snogging," Hermione said. "Why don't you two go start dinner and I'm going to go and check on Lavender."
"Talk some sense into her, you mean," Harry replied.
"I'm certainly going to try," Hermione said heading for the stairway.
Harry grinned at his daughter. "Five Galleons says Lavender's still in a strop with Seamus by the end of the night."
"I'm not going to bet on that," Saffron said. "I'd lose."
Hermione knocked on her cousin's door.
"I told you to go away!" Lavender called out from the other side in a shrill voice. "Go see your…your… Parvati!"
"Lav, it's me," Hermione said. "Let me in."
"It's open," Lavender called back.
Hermione poked her head inside. "Can we talk?"
"If you've come up here to tell me I'm overreacting," Lavender began.
"You don't think you are?" Hermione raised an eyebrow.
Lavender pulled her dressing gown tighter around her. "He danced with that trollop the entire night. Hermione! He never dances! And then she sends him some basket with a suggestive card..."
"Which he was going to throw away until you tossed it against the wall," Hermione said. "And he danced with her twice, and only because you wouldn't go near him the rest of that night."
Lavender knew her cousin was right. "She's a horrible, wretched woman. Did Cho tell you what she said to Neville? Not to mention how she hurt Luna!"
"We know," Hermione nodded. "She's been bothering Maddie and Smythe down in the Seer Department too."
"I think it's time that I found out a little more about our dear friend Parvati," Lavender said rubbing her hands together. "Didn't you say she went on some self-imposed sabbatical?"
"Something like that," Hermione rolled her eyes. "And found herself or some other rubbish."
Lavender thought about this for a moment. "Hmmm....is there any way to find out where she went exactly?"
Hermione shrugged. "Not that I know of but if I know you, you'll think of something."
Lavender smiled. It was her first genuine smile in the past couple of days. "Do you know something Seamus said to me? You aren't going to believe this one, Hermione. He said that if I had gone to Hogwarts, perhaps Parvati and I would have been friends. Can you believe that? What sort of alternate universe is he living in?"
"The same one where he thought you and Summer would be friends?" Hermione teased her.
Lavender laughed and then her expression suddenly turned sombre. "To tell you the truth, I wasn't really looking forward to Christmas this year. It just doesn't seem the same without Uncle Robert."
"I know," Hermione agreed. "It's going to be tough- especially for Mum. She still wants us to come help her decorate like last year though. I don't know how I'll make it through the night without crying."
"Me too," Lavender said softly. "I know he'd want us to carry on like usual, but it's just so hard."
Hermione hugged her cousin. "I'm glad you're here." she said. "Christmas wouldn't be the same without you either."
"Even with all my drama?" Lavender asked laughing.
"Some of it," Hermione nudged her.
Lavender smiled. "Okay, I will apologise to Seamus when he gets home and then tomorrow I start digging up dirt on Miss Parvati Patil."
"As long as you apologise to Seamus I'm happy," Hermione said. "You know he loves you."
"He must to put up with all this," Lavender said. "And I will apologise. I just hope he accepts it."
"He will," Hermione predicted. "Harry and Saffron are making dinner."
"That sounds great," Lavender said. "I'll just make myself presentable and then meet you downstairs, okay?"
"It won't be ready for about an hour," Hermione replied. "So take your time."
"Sounds like enough time for a nice, relaxing bath," Lavender said dreamily.
"That sounds good to me as well," Hermione squeezed her cousin's hand and got up.
"Thanks Hermione," Lavender said. "For being my voice of reason."
"What would you do without me?" Hermione teased her.
"I'd probably be on my eighth marriage right about now to do some vapid, but gorgeous model," Lavender said with a grin.
"And the other seven wouldn't exist," Hermione continued.
"And I'd probably be Parvati Patil's best friend," Lavender said shuddering. "Or even worse Ginny Sodding Malfoy."
Hermione made a face. "Now that's disgusting."
"So," Lavender said. "For that and many, many, many reasons, I am glad that you are not only my cousin, but my best friend too."
"Same here," Hermione smiled. "Same here..."
*** *** ***
Saffron spent most of the day Christmas shopping with Alexa in Diagon Alley. She'd managed to get through all the people on her Christmas list, except for Peter. For some reason, she wasn't sure if she could or should get him something. Besides, she and Alexa were having such a great day, she didn't want to think about him and thus spoil her day.
"You want to get a hot chocolate?" Alexa asked. "I think we might need a break after all this shopping."
"That sounds fabulous," Saffron said. "Too bad we're not near your mum's bakery. She makes the best hot chocolate ever."
"Fortescue's isn't that bad either," Alexa said heading for the ice cream shop. "And it will be nice to get in out of the cold too."
"Agreed," Saffron said, gripping her bags tighter in her hand as they made their way to the ice cream shoppe.
The place was crowded and the girls joined the queue to place their order. A few minutes later, they scanned the shoppe for a place to sit.
"Isn't this a coincidence!" a familiar voice drawled from behind them. "My favourite girl and Saffy. What ever are you two doing here?"
"R.J.!" Alexa beamed happily.
Where there was an R.J., there was bound to be an Andrew and sure enough when Saffron turned around, she saw Andrew and R.J. sitting at a table right behind them.
"Hi," Andrew said nervously.
"Hello," Saffron said just as nervously. She didn't want him to know yet, but she'd bought Andrew a gift since he would be there for Christmas and it was sitting in the top of the bag she was carrying.
"Would you two like to join us?" R.J. asked. "Isn't this a kick in the arse to find you two here right when we are..."
"Almost like someone might have planned it," Saffron said glaring at him.
He grinned innocently at her.
Alexa slid in next to R.J. and gave him a kiss. "Good news," she said.
"What is it?" R.J. asked.
"I get to come on New Year's Eve thanks to Saffy." Alexa said happily.
"Really?" R.J. asked beaming at her. "So I won't have to kidnap you."
"Not if you want to stay on my dad's good side," she giggled, giving him another kiss.
Automatically, Saffron and Andrew rolled their eyes at each other.
Andrew smiled at her. "You want to sit down then?"
"Sure," Saffron said, her stomach fluttering as she slid in next to him.
Her knee brushed against his as she took off her cloak. Andrew couldn't ever remember feeling this nervous around a girl before in his life.
"How long have you two been down here?" Saffron asked when she'd settled in.
"Couple of hours," R.J. replied.
"Get any presents then?" Alexa asked. "You know for someone..."
"Oh maybe," R.J. said. He grinned devilishly. "And Andrew got one for Saf."
"You did?" Saffron asked softly.
Andrew's face was red. "It's not that great, just something little," he mumbled, glaring at R.J.
"I bought you something too," she said blushing.
"Oooh," R.J. said as Alexa kicked him. "Ow!"
"Was that your leg?" Alexa asked innocently. "Sorry 'bout that."
"Yes," R.J. said through clenched teeth. "So Saf... heard from old Petey? Or has he been too busy snogging one of his little tutor girls?"
Saffron frowned. "No, I haven't heard from him."
"Wonder why," R.J. said, shooting a meaningful glance at Andrew.
Saffron didn't want to talk about Peter. Hastily, she changed the subject. "So Andrew, how do you like being with the Weasleys? Never a dull moment around that house."
"You can say that again," Andrew sat back in the booth. "R.J.'s dad eats from the moment he gets up to the moment he goes back to bed."
"He's already eaten all that fudge you brought over last night," R.J. told his girlfriend. "And the biscuits and those scones too. In his defence, Maddie helped him out with most of it."
Alexa giggled. "Maddie eats as much as he does."
Saffron laughed. "That's true." She was feeling much more at ease and relaxed now. "And I'm sure R.J. likes having Drew and Darla back in town. Mum said they looked gorgeous at the ball."
"They always do," Alexa said. "I wish my hair was the same colour red as theirs. It's so pretty."
"I happen to like your colour," R.J. said smiling at her.
Alexa grinned back and gave him another kiss.
"I've had to put up with this for the past couple of days," Andrew said to Saffron. "I wish you would have been around to keep me company."
"From here on out I will," Saffron promised.
"Lex," R.J. said grinning at her. "I just remembered I needed to get your opinion on a gift I wanted to get for my Mum."
"Oh," Alexa said. "What sort of gift?"
R.J. hadn't expected her to ask any questions. He started to push her along to edge her out of the seat. "You know...something for a mum. We'd better hurry before they run out."
"Okay," Alexa looked over at Saffron, who seemed fully aware of what R.J. was trying to do.
"We'll catch up with you two later," R.J. promised grinning at them. He helped Alexa with her cloak and bags.
Saffron watched them walk away and then turned and looked at Andrew.
"I had nothing to do with this," he said looking right at her. "I swear."
"I know," she answered. "It's not like R.J.'s known for his subtlety."
Andrew laughed. "No he's not."
Saffron hated feeling shy and she looked out the window trying to think of something to say. "So is R.J. making you practise while you're at his place?"
"We've played a couple of pickup matches with his dad and Jon," Andrew replied. "But that's not all we've done. For instance, I was able to watch as he and Alexa snogged each other senseless last night."
"Aren't you the lucky one," Saffron said with a smile.
Silence fell over the table and Andrew searched his brain for something to say. Honesty seemed to be the best policy, he thought. She was here and so was he.
"Saffy," he began.
"Hmm?" she asked.
"I haven't been able to stop thinking about that night in the common room," Andrew said softly. "I've tried not to think about it, but it's always there."
"I know what you mean," she said softly.
Feeling bold, Andrew reached for her hand. "You're hard to forget, you know that?"
A thrill shot through her as he squeezed her fingers. "You mean that?" she asked with a small smile.
"I mean that," he said smiling back at her. "He doesn't deserve you, Saffy."
"Peter's changed so much since the beginning of term," Saffron said. "I don't even know who he is anymore."
"Watching you with him at school has been torture," he said quietly. "And when I saw you with him on the train..."
"You saw us on the train?" Saffron interrupted.
Andrew nodded. "I wasn't spying on you, Saf. Jason and I were walking by."
"Ugh," Saffron rolled her eyes. "He was going on about how he loved me, while we were on the train. And that scared the hell out of me, you know? I'm not in love with him."
"You're not?" Andrew asked, feeling his heart swell at this news.
"Hardly," Saffron snorted, looking out the window again. Her eyes narrowed at something just outside Florean's.
"What's wrong?" Andrew asked following her gaze.
"That," Saffron said flatly, pointing with her free hand. Just outside the window in plain view was Peter Lawson snogging none other than the person Saffron hated most at Hogwarts- Christina Grant.
"Saffy---" Andrew said but she had already grabbed her cloak.
"It's okay Andrew," Saffron replied. "This has been a long time coming now. She doesn't know she's actually doing me a favour."
Hastily, Andrew grabbed his own cloak and Saffron's bags before following her out of the shoppe and onto the sidewalk.
Saffron waited until she was right behind the snogging couple before tapping Peter on the shoulder. "Hi sweetheart!" she said in a falsely cheery voice. "Having fun?"
Peter and Christina sprang apart. While Peter wore a look of utter shock and surprise, Christina looked as if she'd just been given everything she'd always wanted.
"Hello Potter," she said sweetly.
"Saffy," Peter said reaching out for her. "It's not what you think..."
"I'm sure it's not," Saffron said, still maintaining her smile. "She just had something in her eye right?"
"You can tell her Peter," Christina standing beside him. "We've been together for quite some time."
Saffron's smile turned downright sugary. "How adorably sweet." she said, her words dripping with sarcasm.
"What's he doing here?" Peter asked looking over Saffron's shoulder to where Andrew stood.
"That's none of your concern," Saffron said. "I guess this just proves my point doesn't it Peter. You've been cheating on me with all these people you're supposedly tutoring. I may not have noticed before but I sure do now. We're finished."
"Saffy..." Peter said. "Wait!"
Andrew stood in between them. "Leave her alone. You don't look at her. You don't talk to her. You don't go anywhere near her."
"Don't you tell me what to do," Peter sneered at him.
"No," Saffron shook her head. "You don't do any of that. We are through Peter. You can go snog or shag whoever you want now. I've got a guy who would never do to me what you did."
"Who?" Christina asked. "Andrew or R.J. Weasley? Because we all know who it is you've really wanted all along, Potter."
"Shut up slag!" Saffron replied with a dirty look at the blonde. "You don't even like Peter. You were just using him to get back at me for helping R.J. see what you were really like."
"You should know about using people," Christina retorted icily.
"What's that supposed to mean?" Saffron snapped, getting up in Christina's face.
"I've watched you for years," Christina replied. "You've skated by on your perfect parents' name. Now, you've got your sister to get you out of trouble. I know it was you who hexed me that time and nearly ruined my face!"
"No one needs to ruin your face," Saffron sneered. "You've done a perfectly good job of that on your own. And I work hard for what I do and receive."
"Saffy--" Peter began again but she cut him off.
"And don't even get me started on you," she said turning to face him. "You love me? You don't even know what love is."
"You've been cheating on me too!" he finally exploded.
"I have not," Saffron hissed. "I ignored it when other people told me about seeing you around the school with other girls- I even ignored my best friends when they told me they saw you snogging those little followers of yours. But today was the final straw. I hope you and Miss Priss here are happy with yourselves because it's all you have left."
"Come on Saffy," Andrew said, reaching for her hand. "Let's go."
As she and Andrew walked away, she could hear Christina arguing with Peter about not defending her.
"Are you okay?" Andrew asked.
"Better than I've been in a long while," Saffron said with a grin.
"That was amazing," Andrew said grinning back at her. "You ...you were...are...amazing."
"Thank you," Saffron said, linking their fingers.
Andrew pulled her off the sidewalk. "There's something I've wanted to do for weeks."
"I think I know what that might be," she said coyly.
"Do you?" he asked leading her off the sidewalk into a secluded part of the alley.
"Mmmhmm..." she said. "Prove me right already would you?"
Andrew dropped the shopping bags down on the ground and then deftly pulled Saffron into his arms.
"Oooh," she said, feeling tingly all over. "This is a good start."
Her body curved neatly into his and he kissed her deeply.
Saffron felt as if she'd just come home after a long journey. She ran her fingers through his dark hair and kissed him back as hard as she could.
Andrew pulled away for a moment to get some air. He looked down at her. "I've missed you Saffron."
"I'm sorry for the way I was around you after that night," she said, enjoying the fact that he was still holding her close. "I was really confused- I didn't know what I was feeling."
"And now?" he asked tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear. "Do you know how you feel?"
"Yes I do," she replied. "It's all quite clear..."
Andrew kissed her again. "For me too."
"I'm glad you haven't changed your mind," Saffron said. "Because I really do like you, Andrew."
"I really like you too," he said softly kissing her forehead.
Saffron pressed her lips to his again. "R.J.'s going to be insufferable now you know," she said with a laugh. "His little matchmaking scheme worked for a change."
"More insufferable than he usually is you mean?" Andrew asked.
"Exactly," Saffron agreed with a giggle.
"So this means you'll be coming over more during the holiday?" he asked hopefully.
"I suppose," Saffron smiled at him. "And you'll come over and spend some time at my place?"
"I'd love that," Andrew said leaning down and picking up the bags. "So you ready to go find the matchmaker?"
"In a minute," Saffron said. "I'd like to kiss you a few more times to make up for what a git I was."
"You weren't a git," he reassured her. "You just broke up with one."
"Yeah I did," She shook her head. "I'm lucky I had a better guy waiting for me."
Andrew smiled. "Well, how about we start making up for lost time then?"
Meanwhile, R.J. had somehow lost Alexa in the crowded gift shoppe. One minute, they'd both been looking at these glass figurines and the next thing he knew Alexa was gone.
"Can I help you young man?" an older witch asked him. "Are you looking for a present for someone special?"
"I'm just looking for my girlfriend," R.J. said. "She was just here..."
"We are rather crowded today," the witch said smiling at him. "Perhaps your girlfriend would like a nice..."
He spotted Alexa at the counter talking to a salesman.
"I've already bought her something, but thanks," he told the witch.
Alexa was looking longingly at a music box that was under a glass case.
"Like that do you?" R.J. asked her, coming up on her side.
She nodded. It was a silver music box painting with stars and moons and played Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star.
"I used to have one just like it when I was little," Alexa told him. "My dad gave it to me when I was five. I must have been about eight or nine and Ben was over playing. He accidentally broke it when he threw a football at me and I missed. I was heartbroken."
R.J. nodded, wondering if he could afford this for her on top of the gift he'd already bought her. "Maybe you should tell him about this one and he can buy it for you," he said instead.
"Not unless he has fifty galleons," Alexa said frowning. "And besides, there's no chance he'd ever come here anyway."
"Oh right," R.J. said. "Come on Lexie- we should go find Andrew and Saf."
"Right," Alexa said looking one last time at the music box.
R.J. had a feeling he'd be back in the next few days and be missing a few more Galleons. After seeing the way she'd looked at the box there was no way he couldn't get it for her.
"Next year at this time, we'll be seeing each other after three months apart," Alexa said linking arms with him.
"I know," R.J. replied. "It'll be hell."
"You'll be so busy being the next big thing for Puddlemere that I bet you'll be too busy to miss me," Alexa teased.
"I'll always miss you Lexie," R.J. said, giving her a kiss. "You're my girl."
Alexa beamed at him. "I love---"
But she didn't get a chance to finish her sentence as Peter came up behind R.J. and shoved him with all his might.
"Hey!" R.J. said, shoving him back. "What the hell is your problem you jerk?"
"This is all your bloody fault!" Peter retorted shoving him again.
"What- did Saffron finally see you for the prat you are?" R.J. snapped back.
"You filled her head with lies because you wanted her for yourself!" Peter nearly shouted. "We were doing fine!"
"I don't want Saffron for myself you idiot," R.J. sneered. "I have a girlfriend already. I just hated seeing you cheat on my best friend!"
"Why am I not surprised to see you here?'" Alexa said as Christina sauntered over to join them.
"Hello little Alexandra," Christina purred. "Junior,"
"Go away, Christina," Alexa said rolling her eyes.
"It's a special day for Junior and me," Christina said winking at R.J. "It was a year ago this very day that we...well you know..."
"And I'm sure he's already forgotten it," Alexa replied. "Get over yourself. You're not going to break us up."
"Your friend Andrew couldn't wait to throw his hat into the ring," Peter said glaring at R.J. "Not to mention her ex Sean. She was probably seeing both of them behind my back!"
"Two boyfriends at once?" Christina asked. "Hmmm, I didn't think Potter had it in her."
"Sean- your cousin," Alexa replied. "Bet you didn't know that."
"What are you talking about?" Christina asked. "Saffron Potter doesn't know anyone in my family!"
"Sean? He's a great bloke," R.J. said. "We saw a lot of him last summer hols."
"Sean?" Christina asked. "Sean Grant? No, there's no..."
"Way," Alexa finished with a grin. "And boy, did he sure like Saffy."
"He wasn't too fond of you though," R.J. said.
Christina couldn't believe this. She wished she could wipe that smug, satisfied look off both Alexa and R.J.'s faces. A smile spread across her face.
"I've been meaning to ask you," Christina said to R.J. "But how is it....sleeping alone?"
R.J. stared at her a moment. "It was you," he said, his face darkening. "You told McGonagall."
"Guilty," Christina said sweetly. "Now you know how it feels."
"Fuck you," R.J. said angrily.
"You already did," Christina said smiling at him.
"You're pathetic," Alexa said disdainfully. "You hate yourself so much you have to go out of your way to make others miserable too."
"Oh please," Christina scoffed. "You should have heard her in the library, Junior. Talking to Potter about how hard it was to stop when she wanted to keep going. You're losing your touch..."
"Oh shut up," R.J. rolled his eyes. "You were just easy."
"And you were horrible," Christina spat at him. "All scared and nervous."
"You didn't say that at the time," R.J. replied.
"Why don't we just go," Alexa said not really wanting to hear any thing more about R.J. and Christina's shared past.
"Sounds good," R.J. said. "Have a nice Christmas together," he said sarcastically to Peter and Christina.
"I wish I could punch her lights out," Alexa said to R.J. as they walked away. "I've never in my life met anyone more reprehensible, mean-spirited, hateful, spiteful..."
"Both of them are pretty spiteful," R.J. shook his head. "Obviously Saf caught them together and that's why Peter was so pissed off. Serves him right."
"I wish I could have seen it," Alexa said looking around the crowded walkway for a sign of Saffron and Andrew.
"But," R.J. rubbed his hands together gleefully. "It must also mean that Saffron finally wised up about Andrew!"
"I hope so," Alexa said smiling at him. "They're perfect for each other."
"Like us," R.J. said, giving her a kiss right there in front of everyone.
Saffron and Andrew were walking hand in hand when they saw their two friends snogging.
"Watch this," Saffron said gleefully to Andrew. She snuck up behind R.J. and in her best McGonagall impersonation said, "Mr. Weasley!"
R.J. froze, his shoulders hunching up as he pulled away and once he saw it was Saffron, he gave her a dirty look.
"I had to do it!" she said giggling.
"We just had an interesting run in," Alexa began.
"So did we," Saffron interjected. "You will never in a million years guess who I caught..."
"Peter and Christina," R.J. interjected. "Peter just tried to blame me for what happened."
"You're kidding me!" Saffron exclaimed, rolling her eyes.
"We kind of blabbed to her about you and Sean too," Alexa admitted. "You should have seen the look on her face, Saf. It was priceless!"
Saffron giggled. "Serves that bitch right."
"Another reason you should like Andrew, Saf," R.J. told her. "The entire time I was with her, he kept telling me I was crazy."
Saffron smiled at Andrew, who grinned back. "Another reason he's got good sense." she said as he put an arm around her.
"So this means what I think it means eh?" Alexa asked her best friend.
"Oh it might," Andrew joked.
"Which goes to show all of you should listen to me more often," R.J. said smugly.
"Stop stealing my lines R.J.," Saffron returned.
"Your lines?" R.J. asked tweaking her nose. "You should be thanking me."
Saffron swiped back at him. "So thank you already. And stop stealing my lines."
"Right," R.J. said laughing. "Come on. This is cause to celebrate. Let's go eat!"
"We still have more Christmas shopping to do," Alexa protested.
"We can't do that on an empty stomach," R.J. said. "I know I can't."
"When has your stomach ever been empty?" Alexa asked him teasingly.
"Right now," R.J. said defensively.
"We never did get our hot chocolate Lex," Saffron said with a grin.
"That's true," Alexa said. "Okay, let's go."
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