I Thought You Were Taking It Easy.
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Ginny glanced around the room that used to be her office. She had last been in it a week ago. Clara and Amelia were relieved to hear she had decided not to run for Parliament. The older witches had felt her conflict in the last weeks. Ever the mothering type, Clara had helped Ginny through her announcement. Emma, the youngest of Ginny's campaign workers, showed no concern for the red-haired witch or correcting the problems inside the Ministry. It was clear for the first time that Emma only cared about the income politics brought her.
Because of her lack of passion, Emma was the only witch not asked to work for the newly formed political action group. They had not decided on a name yet. Amelia wanted it to be called Witches Assisting Various Employment Situations, 'W.A.V.E.S.' because that's what they would be making. Ginny liked the acronym but not the words that went with it. She didn't want to limit them to employment issues. The name was something they could think about over the coming weeks. They had already moved into the new office on the ground floor office at Malfoy International, but wouldn't start doing real work until after the New Year.
Clara and Amelia would volunteer their time to the group as they had done for Ginny's campaign. Stacy, who had been wonderful, never asking for herself, merely sympathizing with Ginny, was offered a full time job. She was on call as a nanny for the busy holiday season. After the holiday she would spend most of her time at the office, but would still work five to six hours a week watching the Malfoy children.
Her thoughts went back to the room. "What to do with you?" Ginny asked the empty room. She didn't want to make a major change without another's opinion. She sat in one of the remaining chairs and glanced through a catalog.
"Good afternoon, Ginevra. You're radiant today", Narcissa stated as she entered.
"Thank you, Narcissa. It's amazing what unloading a burden will do." Ginny smiled and rubbed her large belly. "I'm finally gaining weight."
The blonde witch kissed the air next to Ginny's cheek. "Draco informed me. All else is fine?"
"Yes, the owls from my upset supporters and non-supporters have stopped. Witches are beyond belief. First, many assumed Draco was making me run. Now, they assume Draco has stopped me. In addition many working witches believe I've called them bad mothers."
"Don't let them bother you, dear." Narcissa patted the younger witch's hand supportively.
"I'm not." Ginny paused. "Why do we witches judge each other so harshly when it comes to working outside or inside the home? We each simply need to do what is best for ourselves and our families. I'm very lucky. We don't need the money of a second income. Plus my husband has been very supportive."
"Admirable sentiment. I couldn't have wished for a better mother for my grandchildren. If I had been as strong as you, Draco would have spent more time with me and less with his nanny." Narcissa picked up the design catalog and then smiled at Ginny. "What did you have in mind for this room?"
"Draco and I want this room to be- I've always wanted glass tables and shelves but with the boys-" She paused. "A parents' parlor I guess you'd call it. Not as formal as one of the front parlors but nicer than the family parlor. Does that make sense?"
Narcissa smiled. "Of course, dear. I understand."
"I was thinking of going modern, but I don't know if I like the lines of the chaises." Ginny rolled her eyes. "And Draco must have a chaise."
"Magazines won't do, dear. It's best to go to the shops. Also, I think it's best not to pick a style. Find an item for the room that you adore and design around it." The blonde led her daughter-in-law to the door. "Only if a chaise works in your design will you buy one. Draco needs to learn that he can't always have his way."
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The blond wizard leaned against the doorway to his wife's parlor. Ginny was busy making notes in her journal. "The boys are bathed, storied and tucked in. What are my chances of getting some Daddy time for all my work?"
"Sounds like you just had Daddy time", she joked.
Draco sighed. "I stand corrected. What are my chances of getting some husband time?"
"Have you been a good boy?" she teased putting her journal away and placing stationary on her desk. Ginny started to write again.
He saw no humor in the situation. Ginny had been in her parlor since he had come home from work. She had a quick dinner with him and the boys then returned to her work. "I thought you'd have more time for us when you decided not to run. How silly of me", Draco moaned.
The redhead looked up and smiled. "Come sit by me. I only have to write three short letters. I should have explained earlier." She kissed his cheek when he sat next to her. "While I was shopping with our mothers, we found wonderful items for Leo's new room. They had to be special ordered. I didn't want him to see. That's what I've been doing." She handed him a piece of parchment. "The toys will be Christmas presents."
He gave her a puzzled look. "We already have a cot for him."
"That's for the Manor." She pointed at the picture. "The guard rails are brooms, and they move."
"Cute. What else are you doing?"
"I have to remind the contractors that the sledding hill and ice skating pond need to be completed by Thursday and make the payments for the food and workers we need for the company's Christmas party", Ginny stated.
"Mother can-"
"I want to do it this time, Draco. Narcissa has helped. This type of party is my idea. It's the first time your father has trusted me with something so important. I want to make sure everything goes well."
The blond wizard took her hand in his. "It will, Ginny. I don't want you to overwork yourself."
"I enjoy being busy." She placed three letters in three different envelopes. "Especially when I'm doing things for my family." Ginny started to write on another piece of parchment. Draco snarled. "I only have one more thing to do, and it's for you."
"For me?"
"Yes, you're a very lucky wizard. Your mother told me to find one piece of furniture I loved, and design the new parlor around it."
Draco raised a brow. "How does that make me lucky?"
"Well, she had me convinced that your chaise would only be bought if it fit in with the room design", she continued.
"That sounds the opposite of lucky to me."
Ginny giggled. "I walked into the shop and fell in love with this." She handed him a photo of a chaise. "It fits two. I ordered it in hunter green."
"I get my chaise and Slytherin green?"
"I get Gryffindor red too."
The wizard made a face.
His wife rolled her eyes. "I didn't believe it at first either. But hunter green and burgundy go together along with navy blue and gold. The decorators will be here tomorrow. They will get both the parlor and Leo's room completed days before the party."
"Ginny, I don't think it's wise to have employees roaming the house."
She finished her letter and handed the envelopes to her owl before placing herself in her husband's lap. "The party guests will only be in the ballroom. Construction upsets the house elves; I want them to be relaxed for the party." Ginny softly kissed his lips.
Draco wrapped his arms around her waist and he smirked. "I'd rather that chaise fit only one. I prefer having you close."
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The grounds of Black Hall were filled with delighted wizards and witches. Children ran merrily through the yard from one activity to the other. Never had the Malfoy Company Christmas party been so well attended. Nor had the employees looked as happy.
"It's been ages since I enjoyed myself so much", one of the oldest receptionists of Malfoy International said as she watched a number of children sledding down a hill at Black Hall.
"It's wonderful. The sound of children's laughter is uplifting. What a magnificent way to celebrate the holidays!" her friend agreed.
Lucius Malfoy internally sighed after overhearing the witches. He had heard the same type of statements all day, well for the hour he had been at the party. The blond wizard had reluctantly agreed to his daughter-in-law's plans for Malfoy International's family Christmas party. For years it had consisted of lunch and meeting Father Christmas in the ballroom at Malfoy Manor. Ginny had recommended an overhaul.
She thought the party should have a more family feel to it. The witch had stated that Black Hall would provide that warmer homey mood. Lucius sneered remembering her statement. It was clear why the gates and door knockers of the Manor snarled at the redhead. It was a friendly warm dwelling full of love. His daughter-in-law, like many, misjudged the house.
"You have a lovely home, Mrs. Malfoy. Thank you for sharing it with us", the blond wizard heard one of his employees tell Ginevra.
"You're welcome. It's our pleasure. The day has just started, I hope you'll stay longer", Ginny replied with an enchanting smile.
"We plan to, Mrs. Malfoy", the employee's wife stated. "Our children are enjoying the sled hill. Thuban is an excellent host. He has the house elves helping the younger children."
The employee smiled. "I was most impressed by his decision to have the elves charm the sleds so they return to the top of the hill by themselves. Pulling a sled filled with little ones uphill isn't easy and makes for a short day."
Hearing the complements about his eldest grandson, Lucius decided to head over to the north field. Catching Thuban behaving admirably would be wonderful. The blond wizard was under orders from Narcissa not to correct Thuban for minor infractions today. Starting the day with a complement may offset any offence that may occur later. Lucius had spent a week sleeping alone after the Goyle wedding, and he didn't wish to repeat that.
The Malfoy patriarch beamed at the sight once he spied Thuban. The seven and a half year old had complete control of what should have been an un-orderly mess. Ginny had clearly underestimated the popularity of sledding. The hill should have been twice as wide for the number of guests.
Thuban had solved the problem by setting up a queue. He directed over a dozen Manor house elves in their tasks, making sure the waiting time was a minimum. The little wizard was also monitoring the snow. Before any of it could be worn away, he'd have an elf refresh it.
Pride washed over the former Death Eater. A grown wizard couldn't have done a better job. Thuban smiled and made small talk with his guests as they passed him. This little performance proved that the Malfoy heir would have no problem running the family business once grown.
Lucius braved the queue, welcoming and exchanging pleasantries with his employees as he passed by them. He was quickly at the top, standing next to his grandson. "Brilliant work, Thuban. I could not have done better myself."
"Thank you, Grandfather, but you could have made the hill longer. And you wouldn't need the elves for their magic", Thuban replied.
"It would take time to enlarge the hill. As for the elves, why tire your wand arm when you have others' magic at your disposal? Well done, Son. I'm very proud of you", Lucius firmly stated.
The boy beamed up at the older man. "Thank you."
"You're welcome. When will your father be releasing you from this task?"
Thuban's smile disappeared, and he looked at the ground. "Dad didn't really assign me this. Mum and Dad were busy getting the ice skating and sleigh rides set up. Dad asked me to help our guests. I saw there weren't enough sleds and other things, so I called the elves from the manor."
Lucius placed a finger under the boy's chin and made him look him in his eyes. The man smiled lovingly. "You saw a problem, and you fixed it of your own accord?" The boy nodded. "Even better, Thuban!" Lucius beamed. "Good show. My question was asked because I feel you have earned a break. I believe Sumtin can handle this."
"You think an elf could've done this?" Thuban asked downtrodden.
"Of course not. However, now that you have it organized and have informed them of what needs to be done, they should be able to handle the task with limited supervision. You'll have to come back every hour or two and check on things."
"Oh… Alright. I'll take a break if you take one with me", the boy smirked.
"Of course."
Thuban snapped his fingers, and an elf brought him a sled. "Here we go, Grandfather. You lay down on your belly. I lay on your back. Dad and I sled like this all the time. It's the best."
"I'm not dressed for-" Lucius started.
"Please Grandfather, just one time", the boy pleaded.
Sledding wasn't something done in front of one's employees, especially the way his grandson was requesting.
"Please Grandfather", Thuban once again plead, adding a tilted head and pouting face.
Unable to disappoint the little boy, Lucius whispered, "Just once. We have to be quick; your Grandmother is likely looking for me."
The pair climbed onto the sled, and with a push from an elf they were on their way. Lucius paid no attention to the many staring eyes. The employees of Malfoy International had seen photos in the Prophet of their boss being a loving, carefree grandfather, but they had never seen it in person. His relationship with his son and his grandsons seemed very business-like.
Snow flew in their faces. Thuban shouted with glee on the short, uneventful trip down the hill. As they came to the bottom, the little boy's hand grabbed the handle, turning it sharply to the left. Lucius lost control of the sled, causing them to go tumbling through the snow.
The seven-year-old's giggles rang through the field as he spied his disheveled grandfather. Thuban covered his mouth, trying to hide his mirth. The older wizard quickly cleaned the snow off, straightened his clothing and approached the boy.
"Thuban, that was very inappropriate behavior." Lucius' features were set in a stony mask.
The boy's laughter stopped, and he started to back away. The older wizard was too quick and caught him. "You need to be punished." Thuban froze at the sound of his grandfather's words. It was a joke. I was trying to be funny, the little boy thought, but words would not form. Lucius' hands reached out for his chest. He was expecting to be lifted to his feet, but instead he burst into laughter again as the senior Malfoy's fingers tickled him.
"You want to laugh? Have a good one, Thuban!" Lucius teased the boy.
"I'm sorry! I'm sorry!" Thuban breathed out in-between giggles.
Stepping away from the boy, Lucius replied. "Apology accepted." He offered his grandson a hand up. "Will you help me locate your Grandmother?"
"Yes. You can go ice skating. Grandmother likes that, just like Dad."
Lucius placed a loving hand on Thuban's shoulder as they walked away, leaving many amazed Malfoy employees behind them.
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Draco placed his arm around Ginny's waist. The witch had been organizing the queue that surrounded Father Christmas. The man sat in the southern corner of the Black Hall ballroom. Gifts for the children surrounded him. Charms had been placed on the chair Father Christmas sat in. Once a child sat on his lap, the chair announced their name. A secret list hidden under the chair printed the child's Christmas wishes, so they could be given to their parents later. Before the child left the area, a present with their name on it floated into their hand.
"Sumtin", Draco called the elf. "Make sure everything runs smoothly here." He turned to his wife. "Come have tea with me, my love. I've missed your company today."
She looked around. "I could use a break."
They walked quickly to the table where their boys sat. Draco helped his wife sit down. "You need to take a rest. You are working too hard."
"We have guests", Ginny sighed.
"We also have a number of servants to handle them. You're going to wear yourself out before dinner."
She eyed her husband. "I'm fine." Picking up a biscuit, her attention went to her sons. "Why the long face, Leo?"
Leo pouted and forced a tear to fall from his eyes. "Me go fiwst."
"Sweetie, we talked about this. It's polite to let your guests go first", Ginny softly informed the toddler.
"It's our party. We should get to go first", Serpens chimed in as he folded his arms.
Draco shook his head. "This party is for the company's employees and their families. Our job today is to show them how much we appreciate their hard work throughout the year."
Serpens screwed up his face. "You pay them, that's enough. It's not fair."
"Gamfadder! Gamfadder!" Leo shouted as Lucius and Narcissa approached. The witch sat next to Cam. The wizard placed the toddler on his hip. The babe pointed to Father Christmas. "Me Fwont now!"
"Our guests go first today. There is no cutting in front of the queues", Lucius firmly but softly stated.
"Yep, once a year we let them go first. Mind you it's the only time we do", Thuban jested without thinking. His eyes went to his plate as he waited to be chastised by the older wizard.
Draco readied himself to once again inform his father that correcting the children was his responsibility. There was silence in the area for a time before everyone realized that Lucius was not going to speak. "Thuban, that comment was improper. It would be best if you keep your wit to yourself today", Draco corrected his eldest.
"I'm sorry", Thuban replied. His eyes quickly went to Lucius before sharing a puzzled look with Cam. Narcissa smiled at her husband.
Serpens and Leo increased their pouting, allowing their eyes to fill with tears. Lucius sat down and the little wizards' tears were overlooked.
"Ginevra", Lucius smiled at the witch, "the party is a dazzling success. I'm amazed at how much you accomplished in your limited time."
Draco kissed her cheek. "She is a miraculous witch. I know how to pick them."
Narcissa beamed. "Everything is wonderful, dear. I only have one problem."
Ginny has shocked. The blonde witch had always been supportive. All eyes went to the two witches. Draco was about to speak when Narcissa continued. "You need to rest for a time. I will host the party for the next few hours."
The blond wizard beamed at his mother. "We were just discussing that. I think a short nap is in order."
"Don't be silly, I'm fine. We have guests", Ginny replied.
"Mother and Father can host for a time. You need to rest", he repeated. "I'm tired myself." The wizard motioned to his sons. "It's Serpens and Leo's nap time."
"I'm not tired", Serpens spouted.
Draco lifted the boy from his chair. "It's going to be a long day, son. If you don't take a nap, you'll fall asleep before the evening sleigh ride. Remember all the lights the elves put in the woods?" Serpens nodded. "You don't want to miss that. Plus by the time you wake up from your nap, it will be your turn to see Father Christmas."
"Gin, help me put them to bed. We can have a quiet tea in our sitting room." Draco stated as he placed Leo one hip and Serpens on the other.
"Please, Mummy, you read the best nap stories", Serpens requested.
The witch knew she was trapped. Once they were upstairs, Draco would find some way to get her to lie down. Well, a nice cuddle with her husband wouldn't be bad.
"Please go, Ginevra. I will take care of the guests. Thuban and Cygnus will help", Narcissa stated.
"Thuban has been very helpful today. He could host the party himself", Lucius added.
Cam and Thuban exchanged puzzled expressions. The six-year-old turned to his brother. "Grandfather's not himself today."
"He's being too nice", Thuban nodded.
"He hasn't scolded you once. Not even when you knocked that little girl down ice skating."
"It was an accident, and Dad scolded me", Thuban replied.
"That never stopped Grandfather before", Cam interjected.
The older brother shrugged his shoulders. "Maybe Grandfather just wants to have fun today."
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Diane looked around her new bedchambers. She couldn't believe the decorator was able to complete the overhaul in only two weeks. The young witch had to have it done. After his divorce from Lavender, Greg had had the room converted to a bachelor's suite. A woman couldn't live in the bland colored room. Plus there was only one dressing room, so another had to be added.
She took her little bag into the bathroom. Most of her belongings had been moved in by her mother, except these little personal items. Diane moved her husband's items to the top two shelves in the cupboard. They had agreed to this as long as she kept certain items in the bottom drawer where he would never see them.
The witch giggled at the thought. What was it with wizards and feminine hygiene products? She removed her box of birth control rings from the bag. Would he consider these viewable? Diane gasped as she viewed the contents. She counted the number in the box, nine.
She ran the calculation through her head. I started with twelve. I put the first one on September first, the second October first, the third November first and the forth December first. There should only be eight left. Diane focused, remembering each time she had placed a new ring on her ankle. It instantaneously dawned on her. With the excitement of the wedding and honeymoon, she had forgotten to put a new ring on.
"Merlin, help me!" She went back into the bedroom shocked. Tears cascaded down her face as she fell onto the bed.
"Mummy! Mummy", Gary called as he ran into the room. "Welcome Home!" The excitement left his voice and concern entered. "Don't cry, Mummy. Did I do something wrong? I thought you wanted us to call you Mummy now."
The new wife and step-mother patted her face dry. She hugged the little wizard. "You did nothing wrong, sweetheart. Witches are silly sometimes and cry when they're very happy. I enjoy being called Mummy." Diane kissed his forehead. "Is your grandmother still here?"
"Yes, she's talking to Daddy."
"Go let her know I'll be right down." Diane waited for the boy to leave. She sat at her desk and wrote a quick note to Pansy and Ginny. It was too late to speak to the witches tonight, but hopefully they would be free tomorrow.
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Pansy and Diane sat in Ginny's personal parlor enjoying tea. The redheaded witch smiled at her friends when she entered. "Serpens and Leo are down for their nap. We've got an hour."
"Thank you for making time for me, Ginny. I know you're really busy", Diane said.
The redhead smiled. "My time has been freed up. Draco and I got our last bit of shopping done yesterday. I only have to make mince pie for our trip to the Burrow tomorrow."
"Then set everything up for Christmas morning", Pansy offered.
"Draco does the Father Christmas tasks. I merely have to-" Ginny blushed. "Back to your problem, Diane."
"How could I have been so careless?" Diane wondered sadly. "What am I going to do?"
"Calm down. Let's find out if you're pregnant." Ginny dumped a pregnancy test box on the table. "These can detect as early as the day after conception. You wouldn't believe the funny looks a got when I bought it. The cashier questioned my need for it."
Pansy rolled her eyes. "We should have gone with my plan and used Polyjuice. Now tomorrow's Prophet will be questioning which of your friends is pregnant."
"Don't worry, Pansy, the rumors won't be about you or Diane. I had tea with Hermione and all of my brothers' wives and girlfriends." Ginny giggled. "Angelina will be the target. George is proposing tonight, and I gave her a bag after tea."
"Molly's going to be in your ear all day tomorrow", Pansy grinned. "That will make for a fun Christmas Eve."
"It will stop my brothers from focusing on Draco. If they lay into George enough, my husband may be willing to stay longer. This could be a good thing", Ginny rattled off before pushing the test to Diane. "Let's find out."
The new wife shook her head. "I can't. I'm too- I've never used this type."
"Goodness, I'll show you. These things are easy", Pansy spouted. The raven haired witch removed the pregnancy test from its box. "You just unwrap it, go into the bathroom, and pee on this end." She walked into the bathroom and was out a moment later, stick in hand. The witch placed it in front of her two friends.
Ginny patted Diane's hand. "They are so much better than they were two years ago."
"Once you get your negative result, you can put the new ring on", Pansy added. "Now go do it." She placed a test in Diane's hand.
The new wife stared at her friend's test. "Pansy, are you sure these things work?"
"Of course they do."
"Why didn't you tell me? Blaise's sister sent her announcement to us on our honeymoon", Diane stated.
"What are you on about?" Pansy asked.
"Pans", Ginny whispered. "Um… Is your monthly visitor late?"
The Slytherin witch snarled at the redhead. "You know I'm not regular."
"Look at your test, Pans."
She glanced at the plus sign on her test. "I- I'm going to kill Blaise. I make sure he takes that potion every night. If he's been tricking me, I'll remove his bits with my bare hands."
"I take it this was unplanned?" Ginny asked with a straight face.
"That's what I like about you, Weasley. Nothing gets past you", Pansy replied with as serious a tone.
"So how late are you?" Ginny asked as she looked through her desk and removed a piece of very old parchment.
"I'm not late yet. It's due later this week."
The Gryffindor beamed. "Well, according to my chart both November and December are boy months for you."
"What about me?" Diane asked.
"Go take your test", Pansy demanded. The young witch left the room. "My children are only going to be fourteen months apart."
"It will be fine, Pansy. Some things are easier when they're that close in age." Ginny smiled supportively. "I'll help you. So will your mother. Blaise is going to be so happy."
The raven hair witch beamed. "I guess we're even now. He wasn't ready for Rosetta."
Diane reentered with her test. She placed it next to Pansy's. "I guess it won't be too bad if I am. I'm already raising two little boys."
"Well, no bikini for you this summer", Ginny giggled as the test changed. "The chart says it should be a girl.
Congratulations, ladies."
"How do I tell Greg?"
"Didn't Greg want to have a baby?" Ginny asked.
"He- I don't-"
Pansy patted her arm. "He'll be happy about it. Now, this information stays between the three of us. Don't let it slip to your family about me. It's not good for your husband to learn this piece of information from others." She paused. "Don't make a mid-witch's appointment until you tell Greg. News of pregnancy travels faster than a Patronus."
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Draco was passing through his sitting room with a bottle of lotion in his hand, when his ears were assaulted by a shrieking voice coming from the fireplace.
"This is your fault! You promised to keep an eye on Blaise at Goyle's buck night", Pansy head spouted through the Floo.
"I did watch him. He did nothing wrong", he shouted back.
"You let Blaise buy Leprechaun whiskey!" Pansy screamed.
"Bloody hell, Pans, I was drunk. The old man said it was made by Muggles." Draco smirked at his old friend. "So, you're expecting? Wonderful news!"
The raven haired witch glared at him. "You and Blaise planned this behind my back."
"No, we didn't. We talked about you agreeing to try for another baby after Rosetta's first birthday. I told him we'd know if the Chinese calendar worked by then. That's all. If I had known it was Leprechaun whiskey, I wouldn't have let him buy it." He paused for a minute. "How are you feeling?"
"Fine, I'm only a week or two along. I didn't want my children so close in age."
"Pansy, you should look at the bright side. By next August you'll be done with pregnancy. You'll have three years of nappies instead of four", Draco stated.
The witch shook with anger. "Oh! Wizards! I wanted to have my body to myself before this happened. Pregnancy is easy on you."
Draco raised a brow to her. "What? Yes, it's harder on you witches, but it's no picnic for us wizards. Well, maybe it is for heartless wizards, but when you love your wife it's hard."
Pansy huffed. "Running out for food is nothing, nor is giving massages nor helping apply lotion."
"I enjoy performing those tasks", Draco smirked before his face became serious. "What's hard is right now, Ginny is feeling down because of her size. I can't understand it nor can I see it. She's a little bigger in the middle than she was with the boys. I think it's the way the baby is laying. Her Midwitch says it's normal for a fifth pregnancy. I'm doing everything I can to help her feel better, but nothing's working." He paused and sat. "Two days ago I was sure I found the answer. Before Ginny got pregnant she was going to the gym three times a week with Fleur. It really made her feel better about herself. Well, I found an exercise class for pregnant witches. Gin's Midwitch says it will help her back pains and other things. Here's the rub. How do I tell her about the class without her believing I think she's fat?"
"Give me the information. I want to try it. I'll talk Ginny into coming", Pansy said. "Or maybe you could start going to that gym and arrange for Ginny to meet you there at a time the exercise class is taking place."
"Thanks. I'll Floo you tomorrow." He showed her the lotion. "I've got work to do right now."
Draco continued into his bed chamber where he found his wife waiting for him on their bed.
"What did Pansy want?"
He chuckled, "She was that loud?" Ginny nodded. "She blamed me for her pregnancy."
"Do you need to confess?" the witch tried to say with a straight face.
The blond wizard rolled his eyes. "Yes, I thought I was caught after Rosetta was born. She looks so much like me."
"Of course she does, just like Leo resembles Blaise", Ginny giggled for a short time, then kissed her husband's cheek. "So what was your alleged action? Did you mix up Blaise's protection potion?"
"I let Blaise drink Leprechaun whiskey at Goyle's buck night. I didn't know that's what he was drinking."
Draco applied a large amount of lotion to his hands, allowing it to warm in them before softly working it around Ginny's growing hump. His touch was soft as always, causing her to relax and release the stress of her day. She was almost asleep when she felt his fingers hook into the side of her knickers. "Behave yourself", she softly growled.
His hands went back to her front just above her crimson curls. "You need some here too. Thuban's mark goes all the way down here." His hand moved lower still.
"Draco", she sighed. "Merlin, I'm thrilled that you want me in my present state, but I don't have the energy."
The blond's hands continued to caress her. He leaned down, kissing her neck. "You can just lie back and enjoy it."
She giggled loudly. "Won't happen. Mister Ego always wants to hear how good he's doing."
"It's not funny, Gin. You've been working yourself too hard. I come home, and you can barely keep your eyes open."
"Merlin forbid you miss a shag!" Ginny hissed.
"It's not about that. Since you announced you wouldn't be running for Parliament, you seem determined to prove that you're more than a housewife and mother. You arranged the company's Christmas parties. You helped Pansy arrange the orphanage's party. You redecorated two rooms. You've reviewed over twenty five new business proposals. You would have done more, but I stopped bringing them home." Draco paused, his tone softening. "Ginny, I'm worried about you. You can't keep this up."
"Alright, I'll stop working and nap when the boys are napping once Thuban and Cam go back to school."
The blond wizard growled. "Relax while the little ones are napping."
"I promise."
He stared into her eyes, letting all his emotions show. "I love you, Gin."
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Ginny yawned and stared at the bed Brittany used when she visited the Burrow. It was calling her, but the witch didn't have the energy to climb the ladder. It had been a long day within a long week. Maybe Draco was right, and she needed to slow down. While quitting her campaign had freed up a lot of her time, she had used every free moment of her day with other activities. She was always there for her children, but instead of relaxing when they were napping or in classes, she worked on numerous activities.
Today, Christmas Eve, she got up at six in the morning to bake. The witch made a large number of mince pies. She also made sure the food was ready for Christmas dinner. Ginny had started cooking the meal for her family when they had moved into Black Hall. It was a labor of love that she enjoyed to perform.
When she arrived at the Burrow, she played with all the children in the fields making snowmen and forts. Molly had lunch prepared, but Ginny helped clean up after it. She only had a moment to relax with a cup of tea before presents were handed out. It never ceased to amaze her how exhausting helping her children unwrap gifts was, not to mention cleaning up after them.
She yawned again before holding her new Weasley jumper out in front of herself. Merlin, it was gigantic. What was her mother thinking? She was not that large. The pregnant witch put the jumper on and turned to the mirror. Putting her face in her hands, she started to cry.
"Ginny", her husband called from the other side of the door. His voice became concerned when she didn't answer. "Love, I'm coming in."
Draco appeared in his own Weasley jumper. "Come now, I know I complain about these jumpers, but wearing them for a couple of hours is nothing to cry about."
"I'm larger than an Abraxan. I look like I could give birth any moment."
He sighed in relief. "Oh, this again."
She threw a hairbrush at him. "GIT."
The blond wizard came up behind her. He grinned broadly as he wrapped his arms around his wife, and his hands rested on her belly. "Merlin, I like this look on you", he whispered breathlessly into her neck. Draco's hands softly glided over her pregnant bulge while eyeing her lovingly in the mirror. She relaxed in his arms, leaning against him. The truth of his statement was clearly visible in his eyes. The wizard kissed her neck and nudged her head so she was looking out the window.
Their boys were having a snowball fight with her twin brothers. Draco patted her belly. "It won't be long before she's outside playing with them. I know you don't like what pregnancy does to your body, but it's a small price to pay for those."
"I want strawberry ice cream with Honeydukes' best chocolate crushed in it", Ginny ordered.
"Right now?"
Ginny tilted her head, thinking for a moment. "No, tonight. Bring it to me in bed, along with a Coke and chips."
"I'll do that."
The witch frowned at him. "That proves it. You want me fat. That will give you a good reason to leave me for a younger and thinner witch."
Draco shook his head. "Bloody hell, I've got my hands full with you. Why would I want another witch?" He smiled at her. "You're beautiful."
"I'm bigger than I was with Leo!" she stated placing both hands on her bump.
He shrugged his shoulders. "I don't think so." The blond wizard looked at her from the side. "You're thinner than the day I married you. Our baby is merely showing herself."
The redhead was torn between hugging and hexing her husband. Her size truly didn't seem to bother him, which was endearing, but he didn't seem to show any caring for her feelings. "I need you to be truthful with me, Draco", Ginny cried.
"Alright. Your brother Ron is an ugly, dim-witted git. I'd prefer to hex him instead of shaking his hand, but that would upset you. Sophie's lucky she got her looks from Luna."
Ginny glared at him. "Be truthful about my size, Draco."
He collected her into his arms. "Gin, you are beautiful. I'm a self-righteous prat. If you were fat, I'd be the first one to tell you. Your Midwitch told you it was normal to look larger sooner because this is your fifth pregnancy. It's weight gain that's important, which you aren't doing enough of. Our daughter-"
Ginny rubbed her tummy. "He's a boy. A sweet little girl wouldn't do this to her mother."
"What makes you think a daughter of ours would be sweet?" Draco chuckled. "She'll be fiery like her mother and spoilt rotten by her father." He knelt and talked to Ginny's belly. "You're going to put the "P" in Princess, aren't you, sweetheart?"
The baby responded with a kick, causing the couple to laugh.
Shouts from outside caught Ginny's attention. "Cam's asking for a wand," she said before Disapparating.
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"You couldn't use MAGIC!" Serpens yelled.
Cam's eyes glimmered evilly. "Unless you give us one of your wands."
"Don't even think about it, Fred", Ginny ordered from across the Burrow's yard. "Cygnus, if I catch you with a wand, I'll give you a spanking you'll never forget."
The six-year-old sneered and whispered. "Where'd she come from?"
Thuban shrugged his shoulders. "She just seems to know sometimes." He turned to his uncles. "What's wrong with you lot? Can't beat a couple of children in a snowball fight without cheating?"
"That hurt, Thuban", Fred replied playfully, placing his hands over his heart.
George did the same. "He wounded us." With a flick of his wand a dozen snowballs flew at Thuban.
The seven-year-old crossed his arms in front of his face as he was being hit. Once the assault was over, he ran over to Serpens who was hidden safely behind a tree. Thuban whispered to his brother. Serpens giggled and ran away. Thuban jumped behind a snow bank that hid Cam. "Let's get to work. We need to make as many snowballs as we can in the next five minutes."
Cam folded his arms. "We can't win without magic, and I'm tired of getting hit."
"We're using magic." Thuban looked at Ginny in the distance. "We're just not going to use wands."
The boys worked quickly at their task. Thuban saw Serpens in place behind the twins. He pointed him out to Cam. "Now!" Thuban screamed as he and Cam popped up from behind the snow bank. They started to throw a number of snowballs. The Weasley twins used their wands and a couple dozen snowballs flew towards the boys. Serpens moved closer to his uncles and focused on the snowballs. Instantly, to the surprise of the twins, every snowball in the area came flying straight at them. Fred and George could do nothing as the snow bombarded them. The Malfoy brothers cheered in celebration.
"Where's the wand?" Ginny scolded holding her hand out to Thuban and Cam.
"We don't have one, Mummy", Cam explained.
Ginny's hand remained out. Thuban stepped in front of his brother. "Cam had nothing to do with it. We didn't use a wand. Serpens can summon without one."
Draco stepped up behind his wife and put his arms around her. He whispered in her ear. "It was Serpens. He's by your brothers." As he held her close, he turned to his sons. "Good job, mates."
"Draco", she scolded. "Don't encourage them. They shouldn't be doing magic-"
"We're at the Burrow, Gin. They're wizards. Magic they can do without wands isn't going to hurt anyone", he responded.
"Come on, Ginny. It was great planning and executed with outstanding magic", the twins added.
The redheaded witch started to cry. "I see I'm in this by myself. Do any of you know what it's like to be home alone with them when they all decide to let loose of their magic?"
"We didn't-" Fred started.
"What did they do this time?" Molly asked as she hurried across the field.
"It's nothing, Molly", Draco responded. The blond smirked. "Your boys and my boys merely let loose of a little magic. You lot promise to behave for the rest of the day?"
"Yes, Daddy", the Malfoy brothers replied.
Molly glared at her twins. "Of course, Mother."
Thuban pulled on Draco's slacks. "We've been good at home, Dad. We haven't used our magic."
Fred and George walked slowly away from the group whispering to each other.
"Why do I always feel ten when she gives us that look?" George asked.
"Lucky you, I feel five", Fred responded.
As they watched the twins mope across the field, Draco collected Ginny into his arms. "Gin, I'll talk to the boys. No magic unless I'm home and working on it with them."
"They've been good boys. I'm-"
"Tired", Molly added. "It's been a long day. You should go home now. Your father and I will be over to your house around noon."
"You need help cleaning up here", Ginny replied.
"Nonsense, take her home, Draco."
The blond wizard wasn't going to argue. His family had been at the Burrow for seven hours already. Serpens and Leo needed naps. Thuban and Cam could do with some quiet time. He planned on Apparating his wife home, then returning for their boys.
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Draco collected Ginny into his arms and kissed her forehead. It took him a short time to regain normal breathing. "Merlin, I love you, Ginny."
The redhead giggled. "Love you too. Where do you get your stamina?"
"It's Christmas morning", he responded with a true, cheeky grin.
"That it is."
He patted her bottom. "We need to get up and dressed before someone comes in." Draco waved his wand at the door as he headed for the bathroom.
Since they had moved into Black Hall, they spent Christmas Eve evening reading Christmas stories to the boys in front of the fireplace. It was the easiest way to calm their little wizards down. The excitement of Father Christmas' visit got the best of them. Story time went past their bed time, but the boys still tossed and turned in bed for an hour.
She and Draco shared quiet time in their sitting room waiting for the boys to fall asleep. An elf informed them when the boys were deep asleep. They stuffed the stockings together, and when finished Draco placed each on the foot of each boy's bed. He then went downstairs and placed all of the presents under the tree. Their evening ended with making sweet, passionate love until they fell asleep from exhaustion.
Ginny yawned. Quickly she collected her nightgown and knickers, pulling them on. Draco smiled as he emerged from the bathroom dressed in his pajamas. He jumped onto the bed and under the covers. "They're coming." Ginny covered herself too as they pretended to be asleep.
"He comed! He comed!" Serpens yelled as he ran into the room and jumped on the bed. The four-year-old was trailed by a collection of small, enchanted toy dragons. "Mummy, Daddy, wake up."
Cam was close behind his brother. He jumped onto his father. "Wake up. Wake up."
Draco grabbed the two boys and pulled them close. "I'm tired. Let's have a lie in."
"No! It's Christmas! Get up! Get up!" Serpens pulled his father.
Thuban entered the room, going instantly to the foot of the bed. He peeled back the covering, revealing Ginny's feet. "Get up or I'll tickle Mummy's feet", the seven-year-old smiled.
The witch sat up and pulled her legs to her chest. "You wouldn't dare."
"Yes, I would. I'll get both you and Dad moving that way", Thuban smirked at his father.
Draco popped out of the bed, trapping Thuban in his arms. "You want to use tickling?" The boy laughed as he was being attacked.
His brothers went for Ginny's feet. "Draco, help!"
"You win", Draco announced playfully. "We're up. Let's go get Leo and open presents."
-------------*****************--------------
The family parlor at Black Hall was beautifully decorated for the holidays in the eyes of its owners. It was the prefect mix of the formal, professionally decorated room that Draco had grown up with and the homey, child friendly room of Ginny's youth. The Weasley tradition of the children hanging their artwork was followed, but it was nicely framed and placed by Ginny. The boys had collected the holly, ivy and mistletoe while Draco and Ginny had placed it in the room. The young mother of four had done a wonderful job of creating a beautiful tree that contained an assortment of ornaments such as Quidditch players, dragons, horses, dogs, bears, and other figurines, all of which had been selected by the boys.
Neither of the couple's parents liked the room. Narcissa and Lucius had protested, stating the decorations were more suitable for the children's playroom. Molly and Arthur claimed it was too stuffy. Both set of parents complained that family traditions weren't being followed. The couple simply declared they were creating new traditions for their family.
Draco sat on the floor, playing with a new set of trains designed for the younger boys.
Leo was enjoying pushing the button that made the whistle toot. Serpens worked on the speed of the train. Ginny sat on the settee between Thuban and Cam, listening as her eldest proudly read one of his new books.
"Wonderful, Thuban. You read so well." Ginny stood up. "I need to start the turkey."
"Ginny, let the elves-" Draco started.
She placed her hands on her hips. "I'm going to cook Christmas dinner for my family." The witch headed out of the room.
"Mates, I think it's time we get dressed for the day."
The little wizards didn't argue, even though they knew their father intended on tucking them back into bed. They had gotten to order their favorite breakfast, so their bellies were full. Waking up at five a.m. and spending three hours opening and playing with their new toys had them ready to crawl back into bed.
--------------*************--------------
Ginny wiped her brow then yawned as she finished making the stuffing. Using her wand, she removed the turkey from its marinating bag. Another quick spell put the turkey into the roaster and started placing the stuffing inside the bird. She went to the stove top, placing the cranberries, sugar, brandy, and water and lemon juice into the sauce pan. In a second pan she started making the bread sauce. The witch carefully stirred the two sauces by hand. Within twenty minutes both were done. She covered them and removed them from the stove to cool.
The witch sat down to relax. She didn't understand why cooking was taking so much out of her. She'd done it last year with no problem. A kick from inside reminded her. Christmas dinner had always been cooked by the elves when they had lived at the Manor. Ginny only cooked mince pies and the Christmas pudding. The woman had never cooked a full meal while she was pregnant.
With great determination, Ginny lifted herself from the chair. The turkey was placed in the oven. As she stood and backed away, she stepped into a strong set of arms. She was so tired; falling asleep in those arms was temping.
"I had an idea", Draco puffed into her ear. "If I help you with dinner, we can both have a nap before our parents come over."
She kissed his cheek. "That's a lovely thought, but I don't have the energy for a nap."
"A real nap, love. Now, what can I do?"
Ginny rolled her eyes. "What can you do? Cooking-"
"Is very much like potion making. Now, what do you have left to do?"
"The vegetables", Ginny stated.
Keeping one hand on his wife's growing belly, Draco used the other direct the potatoes into the sink. Using magic, he cleaned and peeled them. He nibbled on her ear. "See?"
The witch returned his kiss. "You do that well. Clean the Brussels spouts, parsnips, and swede. I'll put them in baking dishes and add the seasonings." She tried to walk away from him. He held tight. "I have another idea. We'll do it together."
They moved as one to the baking dishes, each putting potatoes into the dish. Ginny seasoned them. She kissed his cheek, and he cleaned the rest of the vegetables with his wand. A warm feeling swept through her body as she watched her husband work. Never did she think he would do servants' work. It was a testimony of his love for her.