Authors' note: Hi guys! Hope your week is starting out well. I (Amynoelle) actually managed to respond to the reviews this time around ;) This chapter starts out another storyline for Jon/Allie; Maddie and Saffy get their Christmas presents; Andrew spends Christmas with the Potters and Weasleys at the Burrow and Fred & George play a trick on their favourite guinea pig. We hope you enjoy another Christmas in the DD verse.
The conversation Jon had with his wife on Caroline's birthday echoed in his head for weeks afterward. It was almost Christmas and Allison was still hinting around that she wanted to have another baby. He knew that on his current salary, having another baby would stretch their finances way too much so he decided to scope the Daily Prophet for a second job.
"Good morning," Allison said coming into the kitchen. Jon hastily turned the pages to the sports section so Allison wouldn't see what he was looking at. "Caroline and Emma are so excited about going to see Santa today."
Jon smiled. "I'm glad," he said. "I've been looking forward to this all week."
"Anything good in the paper?" she asked as she poured herself a cup of coffee.
"Nah not really," Jon closed it. "I should really go shower. The girls up yet?"
"Not yet," Allison answered. "And your mum said she'd watch the girls while we finished our shopping tomorrow."
"Great," Jon gave his wife a kiss.
When Jon pulled away, Allison grabbed his arm. "You want some company in the shower?" she asked huskily.
"I'd never say no to that," he grinned.
Allison smiled back before kissing him again.
Jon let his hands wander up her back and into her long, thick hair. "Al..." he murmured.
Allison loved it when he said her name like that. She tugged at the bottom of his t-shirt.
"Maybe we should wait until we're in the loo," Jon kissed under her ear. "In case the girls wake up..."
"Good idea," Allison said walking him backwards out of the kitchen and down the corridor. She'd stopped using the protection charms and according to Lizzy, there was no reason she couldn't become pregnant again.
Jon locked the door behind them as Allison started the spray of water. He pushed at her robe as she pulled his shirt over his head.
"You've been so tense lately," she said softly as he helped undo the buttons of her pyjama top.
"I've had a lot on my mind," he said softly. "But right now, all I'm thinking about is you."
Allison smiled "All good things, I hope."
"There's never anything bad about you," Jon brushed her hair out of her eyes.
She leaned in and kissed him. "Let's get in the shower. We probably don't have much time."
"Right," Jon said, picking her up and carrying her over.
They didn't waste much time once they were inside the shower. Jon forgot about his monetary woes as he gave into the love and passion he still felt for his wife after all these years together.
"You are so incredible Al," he said, sliding his fingers through her wet hair.
"You are," she whispered against his skin. "Don't stop."
Her back slid against the tiled wall as they both tried to keep their moans muffled for the benefit of their daughters.
A few minutes later, the bathroom was so steamy they could barely see each other. Allison and Jon emerged from the shower, sated and satisfied.
"Feeling relaxed?" she asked him handing him a towel.
"Absolutely," Jon replied, giving her one last kiss.
"Me too," she agreed. "My favourite way to spend the morning."
Jon laughed as they heard a light knocking on the door. "Daddy?" Caroline called. "Are you in there?"
"Yes angel," Jon called back. "I'll be out in just a second, okay?"
"Emma's hungry!" Caroline called back.
Allison and Jon laughed and quickly dressed. Caroline was leaning against the hall wall with her eyes half closed. Emma was sitting down beside her sister holding the teddy bear Neville had given her.
"Mama!" Emma cried out when she saw Allison. "Eat, Mama!"
"You always want to eat, baby," Allison teased, picking Emma up and tickling her.
"You tired, Angel?" Jon asked, picking Caroline up as well. "Why didn't you stay in bed?"
"Because we're going to see Santa today," Caroline said rubbing her eyes. "And I didn't want to miss it."
"You know we wouldn't have let you sleep through that," Jon kissed his daughter's cheek. "What do you and Em want for breakfast?"
"EAT!" Emma crowed. "Dada!"
"How about waffles?" Allison suggested tweaking Emma's nose. "With lots and lots of syrup."
Max yelped excitedly at their feet. "Max, you can't have waffles!" Caroline told him giggling.
"And no sneaking him bites either," Jon told his eldest daughter with a grin.
"Maxi waffles!" Emma bubbled.
Allison laughed. "Let's go get started then, Em."
"Want to make them from scratch?" Jon asked. "Since it's not every day we get to go see Santa?"
Allison nodded. "It is a big day." She set Emma in her high chair. "Okay, baby girl--- apple or orange juice?"
"Apple, Mama," Emma replied, beaming.
"Coming right up," Allison said giving her a kiss on the cheek. "And I know Caroline wants orange juice, right?"
Jon sat down at the table with Caroline in his lap.
"Yes please Mummy," Caroline said, leaning back against Jon and closing her eyes again.
"Why are you so tired this morning, Angel?" Jon asked.
"I kept thinking of things to add to my list," Caroline said sleepily.
"Oh," Jon said smiling. "What's at the top of your list?"
"A baby brother," Caroline answered. "Or another sister."
Allison dropped the spoon she was using to mix the batter. "Oops," she said, sharing a surprised look with Jon.
"But I don't want Mummy to go to sleep for a long time like she did with Emma," Caroline added.
"We don't want that either, Angel," Jon kissed the side of her head. "But you know, Aunt Lizzy said that your Mummy was all better from that."
"She did?" Caroline asked.
"That's right," Allison added.
"So we can have a baby brother or sister?" Caroline asked.
"Sissy," Emma said clapping her hands together.
"You never know," Jon said, pinching Caroline's cheek. "Might happen, might not..."
"I'm going to wish for it and tell Santa that it's what we all want," Caroline said with determination.
"If you like, Angel," Jon chuckled, his mind drifting back to what he'd have to do if they did in fact have another child.
Caroline slid off Jon's lap and walked over to her mother. Jon watched Caroline help Allison make breakfast. He didn't want to let Allison know how bad things actually were. Every year about this time, his schedule was actually quite sparse. He thought about possibly asking his father for some hours at the shop, but Jon knew his father would see right through this and just offer to give him some extra money.
"Daddy," Emma said, breaking into his thoughts. "Emma loves Dada."
Jon smiled at his young daughter. "Dada loves you too, Emma Madeline. Very, very much."
"Where Mad?" Emma asked, looking to the front hall.
"Mad isn't here," Jon said laughing. "But she's going to see you at Nana's later, right?"
"I can't wait to go to Nana's." Caroline said. "Aunt Maddie's going to help me with Emma's Christmas present."
"And you'll get to see your new cousins," Allison said. "And your Uncle R.J. and Saffron..."
"Yay," Caroline said happily. "It's always so much fun!"
"Fun!" Emma agreed.
Allison looked up from the stove and shared a smile with her husband.
Jon watched her for a few more moments and then moved his gaze to his two daughters. It was true- another baby would make life a lot more difficult. But mornings like this made everything worth it.
*** *** ***
The sitting room floor of the Burrow was completely covered in gifts of every shape and size. As per tradition, the children opened their presents first. Emma squealed with delight when she opened her gifts mimicking Caroline's behaviour.
"Oooh!" Emma said holding up a pair of tiny gloves Molly had knitted for her. "Pretty!"
"Nana, they're perfect," Jon grinned.
Molly beamed. "Thank you Jonathan. I knew she had to have some especially in purple."
"My turn," Katie said standing up in front of her pile of presents.
"Your turn," Nick tugged her brown locks.
Katie grinned as she felt everyone's eyes on her. She thoughtfully looked at the presents and finally decided to open the biggest one first.
"It's a big new tea set!" she said in delight. "Caroline, now we can have fancy tea parties!"
"We can have one this afternoon!" Caroline said excitedly.
Katie grinned happily as Ashley reached for one of her presents.
Ashley unwrapped the present and pulled open the box to reveal a new set of art supplies that she'd been hinting at for weeks.
Hermione smiled. "Did we get the right ones?"
"Yes!" Ashley shrieked. "Thank you, Grandma!"
"You're very welcome, sweetheart," Hermione said giving her a hug.
"Mum and Dad are going to let me use the cellar for my art studio," Ashley told her.
"It's not just yours!" Katie argued. "They said it could be my dress up room too!"
"You're going to share it," Julie interrupted. "Or neither of you will get it."
"Yes, Mum," Katie said glaring at Ashley. She returned her attention to her presents and opened up another one. It was from Caroline and it was a tiara just like the one Caroline wore at Frankie's wedding.
"Do you like it?" Caroline asked hopefully.
"I love it," Katie said, thrilled that she now had one of the pretty crowns of her own. "You're my bestest best friend ever!"
Caroline grinned. "You're mine, too! And we can wear them to our tea party!'
"Go ahead Saffy," Harry grinned, seeing that his youngest daughter was about to burst. "Open one."
"Just one?" Saffron asked.
"Unless you've figured out a way to open them all at once," Andrew teased her.
Saffron elbowed him.
"We left one for you in the closet there," Harry said sharing a look with Hermione. "You might want to open that one first."
"In the closet?" Saffron gave her parents a strange look.
Harry nodded. "There wasn't any room for it out here."
"Oh..." Saffron was still confused but she went to retrieve the gift.
She wondered if perhaps it was a new cloak or a new pair of shoes. Opening up the door, she gasped.
"OH MY GOD!" she screamed as a small, wiggly puppy jumped out at her.
"Doggy!" Emma exclaimed.
"YOU TWO GOT ME A DOG?" Saffron was laughing as the fawn-coloured puppy licked at her face. "It's the cutest thing I've ever seen!"
"What kind of dog is it?" Ron asked.
"It's a Puggle," Hermione explained. "A Beagle and Pug mix. We saw it and knew Saffy would love it."
"I do," Saffron sat back down beside Andrew. "I love him I absolutely love him!"
"Neville and Cho kept him for us," Harry explained.
"Mum and Dad didn't want to give him up," Allison told Saffron.
Saffron giggled. "I'll have to think of a good name for you," she said to the excited puppy. "Thank you ,Mum and Dad. Thank you both so much!"
"You're welcome," Harry said smiling at her. "We had you fooled, didn't we?"
"Completely," she giggled. "And I was so mad at you both, too!"
"Really?" Harry asked teasingly. "We couldn't tell."
"Aunt Saffy," Ashley said petting the puppy. "He's so cute. If you ever need anyone to watch him for you, I'll do it."
"Thanks Ash," Saffron grinned. "Maybe you can help me think up a name later okay?" she laughed as Andrew scratched behind the puppy's ears.
Drew and Darla grinned at their father and handed him a square package. "This one is from us."
Ron eagerly tore open the package and saw an autographed poster of one of his favourite Quidditch players of all time. "Viktor Krum?"
"We actually did his daughter's wedding last weekend," Drew explained. "And we asked him if he'd do us this one favour. He was happy to do it."
"That is fantastic," Ron said happily. "I'll put this up in my office!"
"Isn't that the bloke that does the Wonky Feint thing?" Hermione asked looking over Ron's shoulder at the framed poster.
"Wronski Feint," Saffron, Andrew, R.J., Harry, Jon, Allison, Ethan and Ron all corrected her at once.
"How many times have we told you that over the years now?" Ron asked Hermione. "You can remember the must mundane things, but you never, ever get that right!"
"Uncle Ron's right Mum," Ethan grinned. "You're hopeless."
"She'll know how to say it when I'm doing it on a regular basis for Puddlemere," Saffron said.
"Saffron Grace--" Hermione began.
"Mads, close your eyes," Ethan interjected, staving off an argument before it could start. "Your gift was too big to wrap."
"Did you get me a puppy too?" Maddie asked.
"No," Ethan said. "Close those eyes."
Maddie did as he asked.
Ethan set the cage with the pixie in it on his girlfriend's lap. "Okay," he said. "Happy Christmas Mads."
Maddie opened her eyes. "Ethan!"
He grinned and laughed. "I saw it and I had to get it for you." he said softly as she stared at the little creature in the cage.
Tears welled up in Maddie's eyes. "He looks like...he looks like Dolly!"
"Right down to the little markings," Ethan kissed her cheek.
"On his feet!" Maddie squealed. "This is the best present ever, Ethan."
He laughed as she threw her arms around him. "Glad you like it," he said, wiping a tear from her cheek.
"I love it," she whispered. "I love you."
"Love you too," he whispered back in her ear.
"How about we all give Nana and Grandpa their present?" R.J. suggested.
"That's a great idea," Luna agreed. Ron stood up and handed his mother and father a large envelope. "For all that you do for us; we figured the two of you might need a nice, long holiday."
Molly looked at her youngest son. Her hands were trembling. Arthur took the envelope and opened it. Inside were two tickets for a two week holiday cruise.
"Hey," Arthur said in delight. "A Muggle cruise?" his eyes lit up like the Christmas tree.
Molly threw her arms around Ron. "Oh, Ronald!"
Ron patted his mother's back. "You're the best, Mum. Don't quite know what we'd do without you."
"I've always wanted to go on one of these," Arthur said looking at the tickets. "Just think Molly, we can buy loads of souvenirs!"
"Of course," Molly wiped her eyes. "Thank you all so much!"
"Mummy said that you'd have such a good time you might not want to come back," Caroline said. "But I hope you do come back, Nana. We'd miss you if you didn't!"
"I'd always come back for you Angel," Molly hugged her.
"And what's this I hear about you and Dad," Julie asked her mother. "You two are going on a second honeymoon?"
Ron snorted. "Like they need an excuse to---"
"Ronald!" Luna said putting her hand over his mouth.
"We're heading back to the Swan Islands right after Saffy goes back to school." Hermione leaned against Harry. "We'll be gone a few weeks."
"We can watch the dog for you," Katie said eagerly to Saffron.
"We'll see," Julie said, sharing a look with Nick. "The four of us and Greta will talk about it later."
"Okay," Katie said returning to her toys.
Josh looked down at his baby daughter who was looking up at him with wide eyes. "I don't think she knows what to make of all this. Do you, Casey?"
Casey made a little cooing noise and Josh laughed.
"She's my smart girl," Lizzy said, holding Noah while she rocked Aidan's chair with her foot.
"Josh," Fred asked his nephew. "Would you mind if we experimented with the babies? We're working on this new children's line..."
"I don't think so, Uncle Fred," Josh said shaking his head.
"Come on, Lizzy," George grinned. "Haven't we told you you're our favourite niece-in-law?"
"Thanks a lot," Allison said, clearly not insulted as she was grinning.
"We kind of love you, too," George said quickly.
"I kind of love you guys too," Allison said. "Even though you turned Caroline's hair blue when she was two. Lizzy, just a little FYI for you, never let these two baby-sit for you. Ever."
"Thanks, Allie," Lizzy said with a laugh, patting Noah's back gently. "I'll keep that in mind."
"It didn't hurt her," George said defensively. "And we changed it right back!"
"No," Josh said firmly.
"We could always test it on Ron," Fred said thoughtfully.
"Our favourite guinea pig," George said rubbing his hands together.
"And if we dangle food in front of him, always a willing guinea pig," Fred finished.
Ron hadn't heard the conversation, but he did feel his brothers' eyes on him. One look at their faces and he knew something was up. "No," he said firmly. "No way. No way. Never. Not in a million years."
"You don't even know what we want," Fred said innocently.
"Wherever you two are concerned--" Ron began.
"Here," Andrew said, holding a small box out to Saffron. "This is for you. It isn't anything big but I thought you'd like it..."
"Andrew," she said smiling at him. "You didn't have to..."
"Yeah I know," he grinned back at her as the puppy sniffed at the box. "Like I said, it's nothing big..."
Saffron peeled back the paper and her jaw dropped as she pulled a gold charm bracelet out. A little golden snitch dangled off the end of it.
"Andrew," she whispered. "I love it."
"Really?" he grinned in relief.
She nodded. "Will you help me put it on?"
"Sure," he said, fastening it onto her slender wrist. "R.J. said you'd like it. He was hoping that it would help you change your mind about... you know..."
"I know," she said softly admiring the bracelet. "And I don't need to change my mind now. I'm with the person I should have been with all along."
He grinned and leaned in to give her a quick kiss. "I'm glad to hear you say that."
"I have something for you too," she said. The puppy was resting on her lap and she couldn't get up at the moment. "It's the red one under the tree...."
"I'll get it," Andrew laughed at the dog. He retrieved the gift in question and sat down to open it. "Whoa Saf..."
"I know it's really..." Saffron started to explain.
"It's fantastic," Andrew said holding up the gift slip. "Quality Quidditch is my favourite shoppe. I won't even know where to begin."
"I'm glad you like it," she was also relieved. "I didn't know what you had already."
"Thank you," he said giving her a chaste kiss.
"Uncle R.J.?" Caroline asked. "When is Alexa coming over?"
"Later Caroline," R.J. told her. "For dinner."
"Did you get her something really pretty for Christmas?" Caroline asked him. "Like a tiara?"
R.J. grinned. "Not a tiara, but I got her a necklace and a music box."
"Oooh," Caroline said smiling at him. "Is she going to be my aunt?"
"What?" R.J.'s eyes bugged out. "Uh... no Caroline."
"Not ever?" Caroline asked folding her arms.
"Caroline, I'm only seventeen," R.J. said. "I'm not getting married for awhile yet."
"My Daddy was that old when he married Mummy," Caroline said.
"But that's fine for them," R.J. said. "Not for me."
"But I want Alexa to be my aunt," Caroline said pouting. "She's cool."
"Well..." R.J. was clearly at a loss for words. "Maybe um... maybe someday."
"Come here Caroline," Katie called out and Caroline scampered back to her best friend.
"You okay, R.J.?" Saffron asked.
"Yeah," R.J. shook his head. "You give her the bracelet mate?"
"Yes I did," Andrew said holding up Saffron's arm so R.J. could see.
"And I loved it," Saffron said beaming at Andrew.
R.J. grinned in satisfaction. "Wait till Lex sees the music box I got her."
"The one she saw in the gift shoppe?" Saffron asked. "You bought her that? R.J. that was...."
"She told me that it was broken when she was younger," R.J. said. "I couldn't not get it for her once I saw how she was looking at it."
"She's going to be so surprised," Saffron said grinning at him. "You are definitely turning out to be a good boyfriend."
"I know," R.J. said unabashedly. "I'm great that way."
Hermione looked over at her own mother who was looking a little sad.
"Mum?" she asked putting a hand on her shoulder. "Is everything okay? You've been awfully quiet."
"Just thinking about your father," Elinore confessed. "It was so difficult when everyone was over the other night... but this, seeing everyone so happy together- it makes me miss him all the more."
Hermione gave her mother a hug. "I know. He always did love holidays."
"He'd be happy to see Saffron not moping about," Elinore smiled at the young girl, who was laughing at something Andrew was saying.
Hermione nodded. "The other night at the house was hard for all of us."
"I kept sneaking into the kitchen just to have a moment to myself," Elinore admitted.
"I kept sneaking into the loo," Hermione said with a slight smile.
Harry came over and handed his wife and mother in law two wrapped presents. "For two of my favourite women." he smiled.
Elinore looked over at him in surprise. "What is this?"
"I don't know," Hermione said smiling at Harry. "He's just full of surprises lately."
He wore a devilish grin. "Open up."
"The New Cooking for Dummies?" Elinore read with a laugh. "Harry!"
"Saf and I were in a Muggle book shoppe the other day and I couldn't resist," Harry said.
"This isn't funny," Hermione said but she was smiling. "I like to think I've gotten better."
"You'd like to wouldn't you," Harry gave her a kiss on the cheek.
"I have," Hermione argued. "You and Saffy ate that rice pudding I made the other night."
"One of the two things you make well," Harry replied, winking at Elinore. "Nice to know that hasn't changed dear."
"I'm sorry to interrupt," Luna said. "But have either of you seen Ronald? He was just here..."
"I think I saw Fred and George drag him outside," Harry said.
"They're using him as their guinea pig again," Luna shook her head.
"Gampa-pig," Emma said scampering over to where Luna stood. "Gampa big pig!"
Harry laughed. "That's right Emma," he said, swinging her up. "Your grandpa is one big pig."
"Harry!" Hermione chastised. "You shouldn't teach her that."
"She was already saying it," Harry protested.
"And she has heard worse from her Grandpa," Luna said in Harry's defence. "Much worse."
The front door slammed and everyone watched as Ron came stalking into the house.
"I HAVE PURPLE HAIR!" Ron exploded.
Harry snorted and hid his smile behind Emma, who squealed and wiggled at the sight of her grandfather.
"It works!" Fred said high-fiving his twin brother. "Haha!"
"We can change it back I'm sure," Luna said stifling a laugh.
"No you can't!" Ron told her. "These two jolly jokers just told me it lasts for two days! TWO DAYS!"
"And you wanted to use this on MY children?" Josh asked.
"They don't have that much hair," Fred said sheepishly. "And it's not like they're old enough to know about embarrassment, is it?"
"This is a product for kids?" Allison asked, her eyebrow raised as Caroline hugged Ron around his legs.
"Grandpa, you have pretty purple hair!" she grinned at him. "Can you do that to mine?"
"No!" Allison answered for Ron.
"It's not really a product for kids, Allie," Fred told her. "We're not going to market it to them, per se. But it's perfectly safe. You just give a friend one of these biscuits and watch as their hair turns different colours. Tomorrow, Ron should be sporting a nice pink colour...."
"WHAT?" Ron exploded again. "When I get my hands on you bloody sodding bastards--"
"RONALD!" Luna yelped putting a hand on his arm.
"Bloody sodding...." Caroline started to mimic.
"Caroline!" Allison said sternly.
Caroline blushed and looked down at the carpet.
"It's certainly quite festive Dad," Drew told him.
"You've never looked better," Maddie chimed in.
"He looks like shite," R.J. said bluntly.
"Ronald Junior," Luna spun around on her son. "You don't use that sort of language around the children understand me?"
"Sorry Mum," R.J. said hastily.
"Can I take some of those back to school with me?" Saffron asked. "There's this Ravenclaw...."
"Free of charge to you, Saffron," George beamed at her. "Compliments of Weasley Wizarding Wheezes."
"You most certainly will not," Hermione said. "Saffron, you are a prefect and you should not be doing such things. No matter what this Ravenclaw might have done. You can be the bigger person here."
"But it's just a joke, Mum," Saffron said.
Hermione levelled a stern gaze at her youngest daughter.
"You know sometimes it's not so fun being your daughter," Saffron grumbled.
Andrew and R.J. both grinned at Saffron, who was still holding her new puppy in her arms. "Come on Saf, we'll help you think up a name."
"Okay," Saffron said walking away with her friend and boyfriend.
Harry set Emma down and she toddled over to her grandfather. She clapped her hands together. "Oooh! Pretty!"
"Pretty," Ron grumbled. "That's just great. I'm pretty."
"She's just saying that because purple is her favourite colour, Dad," Jon said.
"Pretty Gampa," Emma grinned at him. "Gampa princess!"
Fred and George nearly fell over themselves laughing.
"I hate you both," Ron said grumpily.
"All we did was tell you Mum had biscuits and you followed us out," George said with an innocent tone.
"And you didn't think that perhaps I'd like to know that eating those biscuits would turn my hair purple?" Ron asked sarcastically.
"No," Fred said simply. "Because you wouldn't have eaten them, Princess Ron."
"I really hate you both," Ron glared at his brothers. "I never did anything to you!"
"Little brother, we love you very much," George said putting an arm around him. "And you are the best guinea pig ever. We wouldn't be where we are today without you."
"I'll tell you where I wish you were," Ron began furiously.
"I think we have an idea," George said laughing.
"I know something that will make you feel better," Molly said. "How about we tuck in for a nice, big breakfast?"
"Come on Ron," Luna smiled at her husband reassuringly. "If it makes you feel better I'll have one of those biscuits too. I've always wanted purple and pink hair."
"It's okay," he told her. "No need for both of us to look like fools."
"You're my fool," she gave him a kiss.
Ron smiled. "Maybe having purple hair won't be that bad..."
"Pretty," Emma said again as she followed her grandparents into the kitchen.
Maddie laughed as she set the cage down on the coffee table. "This really is the best present ever, Ethan. Thank you so much."
"I'm glad you like it," Ethan wound his arms around her waist. "Anything for my Maddie Molly."
Maddie gave him a kiss. "I just have to think of a good name for him."
"You mean you weren't going to call him Dolly?" Ethan asked, pretending to be shocked.
Maddie laughed. "There was only one Dolly. And no matter how much this one looks like her, he's not Dolly. And I want to give him a good name - and a male name at that."
"You and Saf should brainstorm together," Ethan told her. "Both of you have to think of names."
"We probably should," Maddie said. "Come on then. I'm starving. Let's go get you a plate so I can eat off of it."
"Complete with Nana's chocolate chip muffins," Ethan said, giving her another kiss.
"My favourite," Maddie said taking his hand and leading him into the kitchen. She saw her younger brother laughing with Andrew and Saffron. She stopped in her tracks as she suddenly got an image of Saffron fighting with R.J.
"What's wrong?" Ethan said as she gripped his fingers tightly. "You having a vision, Mads?"
Maddie didn't say anything as she heard Saffron's voice in her head.
"....never, ever going to speak to you again, Ronald Weasley Junior....selfish.......broke Alexa's heart...."
"What?" she asked, squinting. "You did what R.J.?"
R.J. pulled a bemused face. "I'm not doing anything except eating, Maddie."
"Oh..." she said quietly, casting a confused look at Ethan.
"Everything okay?" he asked her.
"I think so..." she said.
Ethan took her hand and led her over to the two empty seats across from R.J. and Saffron.
"Is...Is everything okay with you and Alexa, R.J.?" Maddie asked.
"Everything's great," R.J. replied.
"Good," Maddie said with a slight smile.
"They're sickeningly sweet," Saffron teased.
"Like that mutt of yours," Ethan grinned. "Think of a name yet?"
"Not yet," Saffron replied. "I'm open to any suggestions though."
"If I think of any I'll let you know," Ethan rubbed the puppy's soft ears. "Mads has to think of a name for her new pixie."
"How about Fang?" Saffron asked jokingly. "I know it's got a set." she held up her finger which was still bandaged.
Maddie looked horrified. "Saffron..."
"It's okay," Saffron reassured her. "No permanent damage."
"Nah it didn't bite her in the head," Ethan teased.
"Oi, Fred! You want to slip one of those biscuits to my brother?" Saffron asked.
"Don't know if it would help him any," Fred replied with a straight face.
"It would certainly give us all a good laugh," Saffron said picking off a piece of her muffin and throwing it at Ethan.
Ethan caught it and Maddie plucked it from his fingers. "Chocolate chip," she smiled at him. "Thanks love."
Elinore watched the scene unfolding before her and couldn't help but feel a little wistful. Julie was sitting beside her and she couldn't help but recall a Christmas that seemed so long ago.
***
"Dad," Hermione laughed at Robert as he set a huge present in front of a three-year old Julie. "That box is bigger than she is!"
Robert grinned. "Wait until my little Jules sees what's in it."
Julie stared at the box with wide eyes not really sure of what to do.
"Want Grandpa to help?" Robert asked kneeling down beside her. Julie nodded and Robert helped her peel away the wrapping paper. Inside the box was a shiny, red tricycle.
"Dad that's brilliant!" Hermione said. "What do you say to Grandpa, sweetheart?"
"Thank yooooooooo!" Julie replied giving him a hug.
"For a hug like that I'd get you three more of these," Robert chuckled, kissing his granddaughter on her head.
"Ride?" Julie asked eagerly.
"Maybe later sweetheart," Harry said. "How about we open the rest of these presents first?"
Julie frowned. Robert pulled her into his lap. "You can help me open the present from your Grandma. How's that sound?"
"Okay," Julie agreed, her smile returning. She eagerly helped Robert tear away the wrapping paper.
"Oh Ellie!" Robert said smiling at his wife. He held up the silver watch.
"So you'll never be late for surgery," Elinore teased her husband.
Robert laughed and looked at the watch band. "All my love, Ellie" he read aloud.
"That's so sweet Mum," Hermione smiled. "Here we go Julie- here's one from Santa!"
"Okay Mummy," Julie slid off Robert's lap and sat down next to her mother, tearing eagerly into the box.
"Just like I asked for!" Julie exclaimed holding up the doll. "The very one Mummy!"
"He knows what a good girl you've been sweetheart," Hermione hugged her daughter.
"You know," Robert said to Harry as they watched Julie open another present. "It's hard to remember what Christmases were like before she came along. Isn't it?"
"Tell me about it," Harry said with a grin. "Having Jules has been the best."
"I hope you and Hermione didn't mind about the tricycle," Robert said. "I couldn't resist."
"Even if we had, did you see the look on her face?" Harry laughed. "We aren't going to be able to drag Julie off of it once the weather gets nice."
"Daddy look!" Julie exclaimed running over to him. "Santa brought me a teddy bear too! Just like the one Chiaki has!"
"Just the one you wanted right baby?" Harry asked, lifting her up.
Julie nodded and hugged him tightly.
Harry kissed his daughter's cheek. "Maybe if Grandpa says it's okay we can take your new tricycle down to the cellar so you can ride it." he said, tucking a stray curl behind her ear.
"Can we Grandpa?" Julie asked. "Please?"
"We sure can," Robert tweaked her nose.
Julie beamed at him. "Yay!"
"Too bad it's snowing," Lavender said looking out the window.
"And freezing," Hermione chimed in.
"You won't be able to ride this outside until it gets warmer Julie," Hermione told her daughter.
"Okay Mummy," Julie said.
Robert picked up his coffee mug and sat down beside his wife. "This is what it's all about Ellie. Family."
"That it is," she squeezed his hand. "And we've got a wonderful family."
"I'm so happy today that even your cantankerous father isn't going to bring me down," he said giving her a kiss.
"Robert," Elinore swatted his hand. "My father isn't cantankerous."
"I'd have to agree with Robert on that one," Harry said.
"Grandpa Malcolm is sweet," Lavender said. "In his own way..."
"He's sweet to you girls," Harry corrected.
"He's not that bad," Elinore said. "He's just protective."
"Of what?" Robert asked.
"His daughter and granddaughters," Elinore answered. "And great-granddaughter."
"He keeps calling me Henry," Harry said. "And asks me when I'm going to get a real job."
"He can't remember," Hermione replied. "He's in his late eighties, give him a break."
"It took him 10 years before he stopped calling me Richard," Robert said.
"So that means I have what, another five or six to go?" Harry asked with a grin.
"I love Grandpa Mal," Julie said. "He gives me sweets."
"You don't need any sweets," Harry scooped her back up.
"'cause I'm sweet already?" Julie asked giggling.
"That's right baby," Harry tickled her side.
"So cousin," Lavender said grinning at Hermione. "How's the baby making going?"
"Lavender..." Elinore said laughing. "Trust you to get right to the point."
"We're trying still," Hermione said, her smile slipping for a moment. "Still nothing though."
"It will happen," Lavender reassured her.
"I hope so," Hermione looked at her husband and daughter. "I want to give him a big family."
"Either way, I think he's happy with the family he has," Elinore said softly. "I know I am."
Hermione and Lavender both smiled at Elinore. "And we're glad we have you," Lavender put an arm around her aunt.
***
"Gran?" Julie asked waving a hand in front of her grandmother's face. She cast a worried look at Nick.
"I'm sorry," Elinore said breaking out of her reverie.
"You looked a million miles away just now," Julie said. "Are you all right?"
Elinore nodded. "I was just thinking about you when you were little."
Julie smiled. "What about?"
"Christmas," Elinore replied with a grin. "You were too young to remember this but it was the same Christmas that your grandpa gave you your first tricycle."
"No I remember that," Julie laughed. "The red one that I rode until it was falling apart!"
Elinore beamed at her. "That's the one."
"I loved that tricycle," Julie said. "It was one of my all time favourite gifts."
"He loved teaching you how to ride it," Elinore said smiling at the memory.
"To ride what?" Ashley asked, hearing the tail end of the conversation.
"A tricycle," Julie told her. "Your great-grandfather gave it to me when I was three."
"Was it like the one you and daddy gave me when I was little?" Ashley asked.
Julie nodded. "Very much like that one."
"Cool," Ashley replied, going back to her oatmeal.
Ron noticed his two granddaughters and Katie were staring at him transfixed.
"I can't wait until it turns pink," Caroline said giggling.
"I like it as purple," Katie was also giggling.
"Pretty," Emma nodded, her red curls bouncing. "Pretty!"
"I don't know how," Ron whispered to Luna. "I don't know where, but I'm going to get them back."
"Ronald it doesn't look THAT bad," Luna whispered back. "It could be spotted or striped--"
"Don't give them any more ideas," Ron hissed.
"Sorry," Luna gave him a kiss.
"I guess I'll just have to wear hats the next two days," Ron said helping himself to a couple more muffins.
"You might want to," Luna smiled at him. "And be careful of what you eat."
"Good idea," Ron said.
"After we finish eating, I'm going to take a nice long kip," R.J. said to Andrew and Saffron. "And then I'll pop over to Lex's to pick her up."
"Be really nice to her R.J.," Maddie said. "Okay?"
"I'm always nice to my girl Mad Dog," R.J. was giving her a strange look.
"She's good for you," Maddie said quietly. "I just don't want...I don't want anyone to get hurt."
"She won't get hurt by me," R.J. replied, stretching as he got up. "You two behave yourselves." he said to Saffron and Andrew.
"So," Ethan said giving Andrew a hard stare. "Who are you exactly and what are your intentions toward my little sister?"
"Ethan," Saffron hissed. "Knock it off."
Ethan ignored her. "Just so you know, she can be a bit tetchy, Andrew. And she has this annoying habit of..."
Saffron kicked her brother's leg as hard as she could and was rewarded by his grunt of pain.
"Violence," Ethan finished clutching his leg under the table.
"Never mind him, Andrew," Maddie told him. "He's known to carry the big brother act a bit too far."
"It's okay," Andrew replied. "You should really be after her ex. The idiot cheated on her."
"You didn't tell me that, Saffy," Ethan said levelling his gaze at his sister.
"It's not really something I want to rehash, thank you very much." Saffron replied. "He was a jerk; I ended things, and got someone better."
"You know I worry about you," Ethan said seriously. "I know I give you a hard time, but if anyone ever messes with you, I'll crush them. You know that, right?"
"Yes I know," Saffron said sweetly. "But I'm fine, and things with Andrew here are fine, so you have nothing to worry about." she held her new puppy with one hand and grabbed Andrew's with the other. "Come on."
Andrew stood up and followed her out of the kitchen.
"He certainly seems to like her a lot," Maddie watched them go. "Did you see the bracelet he gave her? Very sweet..."
"I'm still trying to get used to my baby sister dating actually," Ethan said. "But he does seem like a nice bloke and he's R.J.'s best mate."
"This is how it was for Josh, Jon and R.J. when you and I started seeing each other," Maddie smiled at him as she gathered some crumbs together to feed her new pixie.
"I still remember them going all big brother on me in Brighton," Ethan said laughing.
"Saffron knows you care," Maddie assured him as she began to clear some plates from the table. "And I think you're very sweet."
"I think I'm rather sweet too," Ethan said helping her clear things away.
Josh looked across the table at his brother. "You two still coming over for dinner tomorrow night?"
"Of course," Allison replied. "We're looking forward to it."
Jon frowned. Tomorrow night, he was to start his new job. "I don't think I'll be able to make it actually."
"Why not?" Allison turned to look at him.
"Something's come up," Jon lied. "There's a client of mine who wants some extra lessons."
"The day after Christmas?" Allison asked incredulously.
"They're paying extra," Jon said, shifting uncomfortably on the seat.
"At night?" Josh asked. "I didn't think you taught lessons at night, Jon?"
"It's more of a late afternoon thing, but they're paying me really well for a long lesson," Jon said, starting to feel a bit snappish. "What's with the third degree? It's just a flying lesson!"
"We just wanted to show you the new house," Josh said quickly wondering what his brother's problem was.
"I'm sure I can see your nice, big house another time," Jon said pushing back from his chair. "I'm going for a walk."
"It's freezing out Jon," Allison said in a concerned tone.
"I'll take my cloak," Jon said without looking back.
"Did I say something wrong?" Josh asked once Jon was gone.
"No," Allison replied. "He's been distracted lately. It's nothing you did or said Josh. Really."
"Well if there's anything we can do--" Josh began but Allison shook her head.
"We're fine," Allison assured him.
"You can still come over, can't you?" Lizzy asked. "I cannot wait to show you the nursery!"
"I'll come over with the girls," Allison promised. "Beats spending the night alone."
"Great," Lizzy said smiling at her. "And we'll even save a plate for Jon."
"Mummy can I pleeeeeeeeeeease turn my hair purple?" Caroline begged.
"Em too!" Emma chimed in. "Em too!"
Allison shook her head. "Caroline, I don't want to see you with purple hair for the next two days."
"Sometimes it's not fun being your daughter," Caroline said much like Saffron had said earlier in the sitting room.
Allison laughed. "You just soaked all that up earlier didn't you?" she asked, pulling her daughters into her arms.
Caroline nodded. "Can I go find Daddy, then?"
"He went for a walk," Allison said. "I thought you and Katie were going to play tea party."
"We were," Caroline said yawning. "But I'm kind of sleepy."
"Why don't you go have a kip then love?" Allison asked. "I'll wake you up in a few hours."
"Okay," Caroline said giving Allison a hug. "Come on Katie, let's go kip."
"Okay," Katie replied.
"Mama, Em hungry!" Emma held onto her mother's legs.
"You just ate baby," Allison told her. "You're still hungry?"
"Eat!" Emma proclaimed.
"Allie, she's a Weasley," Ron said with a grin.
"Yes, she is," Allison said laughing.
"What kind of dog did your parents say this was again?" Andrew asked with a laugh, tossing a ball of wrapping paper across the floor and watching the puppy run after it.
"Puggle," Saffron answered. "And he's the most adorable thing I've ever seen."
"Yeah he is pretty cute," Andrew said as the puppy flopped down in front of them. "Come on Saf, what are you going to call him?"
"I don't know," Saffron said shaking her head. "This is so hard. I don't know how parents to do it."
"Can't be that hard," Andrew grinned at her, running his hand down her arm.
She smiled back. "Well I have been toying with a few names."
"Don't keep me in suspense," he said, leaning in to kiss her.
Saffron kissed him softly. "Okay, well...this is just off the top of my head, but Sam, Puddles, Pumpkin, Harmony, Brownie, Biscuit...."
"Puddles sounds like a good name," Andrew said, sliding his arm around her.
"You think so?" Saffron asked pleased.
"Seems fitting," Andrew said, lifting one of the puppy's oversized paws. "With those big eyes and whatnot."
"Right," Saffron agreed. "Puddles, it is."
"Hey buddy," Andrew said, laughing. "Come here Puddles! You like your name?"
The puppy plopped down on Andrew's lap and let out a small bark.
"I think he does," Saffron said resting her head on Andrew's shoulder.
"This is great," Andrew said after a moment. "Just sitting in here with you like this."
"I think so too," Saffron whispered. "This is pretty close to perfect."
"This... this isn't rebound or anything is it?" Andrew asked hesitantly. "Your way of getting over what happened with Peter?"
Saffron lifted her head off of his shoulder. "No," she said. "Of course not, Andrew. I would never do that."
"Okay," he said. "Just making sure..."
"You kind of took me by surprise," she said. "I mean, one day you're R.J.'s best friend and the next, you're kissing me in the common room."
"I had an eye for you since the beginning of the year," Andrew said. "And I couldn't wait to kiss you again after that one night."
"And I kept avoiding you," Saffron said touching his arm. "I'm so sorry."
"Nah I understand now," Andrew said. "You didn't want to cheat on your boyfriend."
"If only I had known what an arse he really was," Saffron said quietly.
"Yeah but at least you found out before you got too far into the relationship..." Andrew said, tucking a stray hair behind her ear.
"I just feel like such an idiot for not seeing before," Saffron said.
"According to R.J., he used to be really nice." Andrew mused. "And-- wait... why are we sitting here talking about him? We're all alone in the sitting room here. By all rights we should be snogging." he grinned.
"Exactly," Saffron said giggling. "There's better ways to spend our time than talking about old what's-his-name."
"Right," Andrew leaned in and pressed his lips to hers.
Saffron looped her arms around Andrew's neck and deepened the kiss.
He loosened her hair from the ponytail she'd thrown it back in that morning and swept his fingers through her curly strands. "Saffy," he breathed, kissing the side of her neck.
"Andrew," she whispered, tilting her head so he'd get better access. He really was amazing at this, she thought.
Kissing her felt so familiar, like he'd been doing it for ages and not just a few days. He kissed her fully on the mouth again, turning so that he could pull her closer.
She knew this was risky with her parents being in the next room, but that was part of the fun---the risk of being caught.
"You are incredible at this you know," he breathed, pulling away slightly. His hands were still tangled in her hair, her lips swollen and her eyes were dazed.
"It helps when you really fancy the boy," she said with a grin.
"So you really fancy me now eh?" he asked, his blue eyes teasing. "Especially since I gave you jewellery?"
She giggled. "That certainly helped your case."
He tickled her side. "We're going to have so much fun the rest of this term," he said to her.
"Your last months at Hogwarts should be the best," Saffron said kissing him.
"With you they definitely will be," Andrew said softly.
Several hours later, just after lunch, R.J. arrived back at The Burrow with Alexa in tow. "Your dad was pretty scary back there," he said. "Making sure there was none of 'that sleeping stuff' and whatnot while you were over here."
"He was just giving you a hard time," Alexa assured him. "He wouldn't have let me come over if he was really cross about it."
"I just don't want them to hate me now," R.J. squeezed her hand.
"They don't," Alexa said smiling at him. She saw R.J.'s father sitting in the kitchen with Arthur. "R.J.? Why does your father have purple hair?"
"Long story," R.J. said with a broad grin. "But I bet he'd feel better if you gave him that fudge."
"I should go in and say hello," Alexa said following him into the kitchen.
"Happy Christmas, Mr. Weasley," she said warmly.
"Hello, Alexa," Ron smiled at her. "Don't mind my appearance; my brothers thought it would be fun to play a Christmas prank on me."
"It's okay," Alexa said. "I've come to expect the unexpected when I come here."
"Smart girl," Arthur said smiling at her.
"And I have something for you Mr. Weasley," she said to Arthur. "This is from my dad's office. You can push a couple of these buttons and it will record your voice."
"Well I'll say," Arthur was delighted. "Thank you dear!"
"You're very welcome, sir," Alexa said grinning at him. A small brown dog came running at her.
"Puddles!" Saffron called after him. "Lex!"
"Saffy, you got a dog!" Alexa squealed.
Saffron nodded and gave her best friend a hug. "Isn't he the cutest thing ever?"
"And you named him Puddles?" Alexa laughed. "That's adorable. Happy Christmas!"
"Look at what Andrew gave me!" Saffron said holding up her arm.
"That's gorgeous," Alexa said, her eyes wide. "Wow Saf..."
"I know," Saffron said. "I take it you haven't received your presents yet..."
"Presents?" Alexa asked looking at R.J. "More than one?"
"Come on, they're in the sitting room." R.J. took her hand. "Ethan and Maddie took the kids ice skating so at least we have some time to ourselves."
"Hi, Andrew," Alexa smiled at him as she followed R.J. in. "Happy Christmas."
Andrew grinned. "Happy Christmas, Lexie."
Alexa smiled at her best friend as she and Puddles sat down next to Andrew who put his arm around her. "I have presents for you lot as well," she said.
"I have something for you too!" Saffron said smiling at her.
"Mine first though," R.J. grinned.
"By all means," Saffron said grinning at Andrew.
Alexa sat down on the other sofa and watched as R.J. picked up her presents from under the tree.
"I didn't know you were getting me two things," she whispered to R.J. "I only got you one--"
"You only got me one?" R.J. asked pretended to be outraged. "Well, some girlfriend you are!"
"R.J.," Alexa said. "Come on, I feel really bad."
"You shouldn't feel bad," he said handing her the first present. "Come on, open up."
"Okay," she said, peeling back the wrapping paper. "R.J.!" she shrieked. "It's the music box!"
"With the way you were looking at it in the shop, how could I not have gotten it for you...?" R.J. said smiling at her.
Alexa threw her arms around her boyfriend. "Thank you so much," she said her eyes shiny. "You've no idea what this means to me."
"I think I'm getting an idea," he said hugging her back. "I love you, Lexie."
"I love you too," she kissed him.
"Open up the other one," Saffron urged her, her head on Andrew's shoulder.
R.J. handed her the smaller box. "I hope you like this one too."
Alexa shook her head as she opened it. "I can't imagine not liking anything you give me," she said softly as she revealed an ornate silver locket.
"She's not talking," R.J. said after Alexa's lower lip began to tremble. "Saf, is that a good sign?"
"Yes," Saffron grinned. "Lex, speak. Tell him you love it."
"I---I love it," Alexa whispered. "It's so beautiful."
"Open it up," R.J. urged her, balling the wrapping paper and tossing it at the puppy.
"You already put pictures in it?" Alexa asked.
R.J. grinned. "Just open it," he insisted.
"Okay," she said unclasping the locket. "R.J...."
"What did he put in there?" Saffron came up on her other side. "That's so sweet!" she cooed.
"That's when we were in Brighton," Alexa said smiling at him.
"Yup," R.J. was pleased.
"He's making me look bad," Andrew teased.
"Not bloody likely," Saffron laughed, sitting back in his lap as Puddles jumped over to her.
"Thank you so much," Alexa said giving R.J. another kiss. "Will you put it on for me?"
"Sure will," R.J. said, pushing her hair over her shoulder. "Looks great on you."
"Now it's your turn," Alexa said leaning over and reaching into her bag. "I really hope you like it."
"I'm sure I will," R.J. grinned at her as Alexa handed gifts to Saffron and Andrew as well.
"Okay Casanova you get to go first," Saffron said.
"Who?" R.J. asked her. "Who's that?"
"Casanova was a great lover," Saffron rolled her eyes. "Pick up a book sometime R.J."
"I pick up books," R.J. said defensively. "All the time..."
"If they're Quidditch books," Andrew teased his friend.
"That's not all," R.J. said. "I read a book this morning."
"Dr. Seuss," Saffron said laughing. "To Emma."
"Okay," Alexa was laughing too. "Come on, everyone open up." She'd gotten a book for Saffron that she knew her best friend had been wanting, and a Quidditch gift slip for Andrew, but she was most eager to see what R.J. thought of his gift.
R.J. peeled away the wrapping paper. "Okay, Lexie...let's see what you got for me...."
Alexa bit her lip nervously- she hoped he liked the camera she'd gotten for him. Saffron had helped her pick it out in Diagon Alley.
"Lex!" R.J. exclaimed when he opened the box. "I have been wanting this camera for ages!"
A relieved smile broke out on her face. "So you really like it then?"
"I do," he said. "In fact...how about I take the first picture?"
"Not of me," Saffron squealed. "I look awful!"
"You look pretty," Andrew said. "Come on..."
"All of you sit close together on the sofa," R.J. instructed. "There you go...."
"Puddles," Saffron was laughing. "Come here you little monster."
Saffron's puppy hopped into her lap.
R.J. looked through the lens. "Okay. One, two..."
The three of them were laughing as R.J. took the picture. "That'll be a good one," Andrew said.
"I think so," R.J. said setting the camera down and joining them on the sofa.
"I hope we'll always be as happy as we are right now," Alexa said softly resting her head on his shoulder.
"One big happy family?" R.J. teased, nudging her side.
"Something like that," Alexa said with a content sigh.
"Well look at the four of you," Harry came into the room with a grin. "Knackered again?"
"It's hard work opening up presents," Saffron said with a yawn.
"Happy Christmas, Mr. Potter," Alexa said.
"You too, Alexa," Harry smiled at her. "Always nice to have you around."
Alexa smiled at him. It had been quite intimidating the first time she'd met Saffron's parents. How could it not have been? But, they'd quickly put her at ease and were just like any other parents.
"Your Mum is going to take your grandmother home," Harry said.
"But why?" Saffron asked, worry etched across her features. "Is Gran not having any fun, Dad?"
"I think she sort of wants to be alone," Harry replied. "This is tough for her, Saffy."
"I feel terrible," Saffron said quietly. "I should have spent more time with her today. Where is she?"
"She's in the kitchen," Harry said.
Saffron excused herself and walked into the kitchen. Hermione was hugging Elinore who looked as if she'd been crying.
"Gran," Saffron whispered.
"Hello, sweetheart," Elinore replied, smiling tearfully at her.
Saffron hugged her grandmother. "Please don't cry."
"I just miss your grandfather so much," Elinore kissed the top of Saffron's head.
"I know," Saffron said feeling guilty for not paying more attention to her grandmother. "Don't go, Gran."
"I really just want to be alone sweetheart," Elinore replied.
"But you shouldn't be!" Saffron argued. "You should be with your family. Grandpa wouldn't want you sitting at home alone. He'd want you here with us."
"Saffron," Hermione said gently. "If your Gran wants to go home, don't barrage her with all this okay?"
"I'll go with her then," Saffron offered. "We can go back home and watch some telly. What's that old movie Grandpa likes so much? We'll watch that one."
"No Saffy- you stay here with your friends and have fun." Elinore patted her hand. "I'll be all right."
"I want to go with you," Saffron said firmly. "My friends will understand."
"Sweetheart, your Gran wants to be alone," Hermione said in her don't-argue-with-me tone.
"Okay," Saffron said hugging her grandmother again. "I'm so sorry, Gran."
"You've been wonderful Saffron Grace," Elinore said, hugging her back.
Molly came forward and handed Hermione a basket. "I put a little bit of everything in there for you, Elinore. I'm so glad you could come over today. It wouldn't have been the same without you."
"Thank you, Molly," Elinore said. "You're very generous."
"I'm just going to make sure Mum is settled in," Hermione told Harry. "I'll be back soon."
"Sure you don't want me to go with you?" Harry asked.
"We'll be fine," Hermione said. "And Lavender and Seamus are home..."
"Right," Harry gave his wife a kiss and then pecked Elinore's cheek. "Come on over this week for dinner." he said to her.
"I will," Elinore promised.
"Bye, Gran," Saffron said again. "I'm really sorry I haven't been around more."
"Don't apologise for getting on with your life," Elinore said kissing her cheek.
"Maybe me and Andrew can come over for dinner before we go back to school so you can get to know him," Saffron said with a smile.
"I'd like that," Elinore said.
"I'll talk to Andrew then," Saffron said. "Happy Christmas, Gran. And if you need anything please tell me okay?"
Elinore nodded and followed Hermione out of the kitchen.
Saffron shuffled back into the sitting room and plopped back down on the sofa.
"Everything okay?" Alexa asked.
"My Gran left," Saffron replied softly.
"She doesn't seem to be doing so well," R.J. commented. "She looked a little lost and sad all day."
"She really misses Grandpa," Saffron answered as Puddles scampered onto her lap again.
"Anything we can do?" Andrew asked.
Saffron shook her head. "Nothing that I can do for her either."
"Saf," Alexa said gently.
"I'll be okay," Saffron wiped at her eyes.
"If you need to talk..." Alexa offered.
"Thanks, Lex," Saffron smiled at her as she used a tissue to blot at her tears. "Man and I was doing so good again too- no crying for at least a week!"
"It takes some time to get over," R.J. said.
"R.J.'s right," Andrew said putting an arm around her.
"I'm really glad I have you guys," Saffron said to all of them.
"Of course you are," R.J. said trying to get her to laugh. "We're very cool people."
"They are," Saffron motioned to Alexa and Andrew. "I don't know about you."
"I'm very cool," R.J. said puffing out his chest.
Saffron shook her head and smiled. "You're the Master of Cheese is what you are." she tossed a sofa cushion at him.
"I thought I was that Cassandra person," R.J. said throwing the pillow back at her.
"Casanova, you dolt," Saffron said, as Alexa and Andrew burst into laughter.
"Cassandra!" Andrew cackled.
"There's R.J.'s new name," Saffron giggled. "Cassandra Weasley."
"Shut it, Potter," R.J. said glaring at her. "That is not my new name."
Puddles barked as R.J. moved off the sofa.
"See even the dog knows," Saffron said, new tears coming to her eyes as she laughed harder.
"At least I'm not named after a spice," R.J. said.
"I was named after a Muggle actress both my parents liked," Saffron tossed her hair.
"Who has a name that is a spice," R.J. said. "It could have been worse. You could have been named Paprika or Nutmeg. Paprika Potter...."
Saffron tossed the pillow at him again but harder this time.
"No, no," R.J. said chuckling. "Oregano. Cinnamon. Pepper Potter."
"You're really asking for it," Saffron narrowed her eyes.
"Come on, Pepper," R.J. said devilishly getting to his feet. "I like them spicy!"
"Say that to your girlfriend not me," Saffron retorted.
R.J. ran around the sofa. "You always were slow."
Saffron leapt up behind him, catching the back of his shirt. "Say that to the person who isn't your best seeker," she pulled him back.
"Is that the best that you got?" R.J. asked. "You're going to rip my shirt, Saffy!"
Andrew and Alexa were laughing too hard to do anything else.
"Gerroff me!" R.J. said laughing. "Saf..."
"Take it back," Saffron said, giggling.
"Take what back?" R.J. asked. "I don't know what you're talking about."
"The fact that you called her a spice, Cassandra," Andrew said cheekily. "That's what she wants you to take back."
"All right fine," R.J. said. "I take it back so stop choking me already..."
"Okay," Saffron said letting go. "And I happen to like my name. It's different and unique."
"Yeah, like thank goodness there's only one of you," R.J. returned, grinning.
"At least I'm well-read," Saffron said. "Cassandra? I swear you really need to broaden your horizons, R.J."
"I'm sure I have the book somewhere," Alexa said. "I'll make him read it."
"Before you ask R.J.," Saffron teased. "It doesn't have pictures."
"You know him too well," Andrew replied.
"You know, I happen to be a very smart bloke," R.J. said defensively.
"I'm not even going to respond to that," Saffron said, sitting back on the sofa.
"I am," R.J. said. Jon walked back into the house at that moment. "Jon, tell them that I'm one of the smartest people in the family!"
"What?" Jon asked distractedly.
"That I'm smart," R.J. repeated.
"I guess," Jon replied, hanging up his cloak and heading up to his bedroom.
Allison was in the bedroom Caroline and Emma were staying in when she saw her husband walk by.
"Jon?" she asked.
"Hey," he said, stopping in the door. "What's up?"
"I was just tidying up," Allison replied. "Caroline, Emma and Katie made quite a mess. Ethan and Maddie took the girls ice skating."
When Jon didn't say anything else, Allison looked up. "You were gone for quite awhile, Jon. Is everything okay?"
"I'm fine," Jon answered quickly. "Just needed to clear my head a bit. I didn't sleep well last night."
Allison knew her husband well enough to know something was definitely not right. "Lizzy and Josh were really looking forward to showing us their new house, Jon."
"I'll come over another time okay Al?" Jon snapped. "Someone's got to make the money around the house you know."
Allison didn't know what to say to this. "But couldn't you postpone it? I'm sure your client wouldn't mind--"
"I can't all right? I wish you'd just drop it," Jon continued down the hall towards their room.
"Jon--" she called after him. "I think we need to talk about this. You were very rude at breakfast to Josh and Lizzy and then you leave for the better part of the day. You come back and you bite my head off for just suggesting something. What's going on?"
"Nothing," Jon shut the door to the loo behind him.
"Jon!" Allison said knocking on the door. When he didn't answer, Allison let out a groan of frustration.
Jon took a few deep breaths to calm down. A few moments later, he opened the door. "Look Allie," he began in a more docile tone. "I can't cancel. This is a very important client for me. I'll just have to do dinner another time, and you'll all just have to accept that."
"Okay," Allison said quietly. "Just promise me that if something's bothering you, you'll talk to me about it. Don't shut me out."
"Fine," Jon replied. "I'm sorry Al. I didn't mean to get angry with you."
Allison smiled. "It's okay."
"My Allie," he said, pulling her into his arms, resting his forehead against hers.
"Always," she said smiling at him. "Your hands are cold. You forgot to bring your gloves, didn't you?"
"I never remember those," he said with a grin.
"That's why you have me around," she said giving him a kiss.
*** *** ***
