Prologue
Ron smiled and swept Hermione's bangs away from her forehead. She had been sleeping quite soundly beside him near the fireplace. The kids were already in bed and Hermione was too tired to talk tonight, or so it seems.
"Ron?" whispered Hermione, blinking as she looked up and into her husband's eyes. She smiled weakly. Yes, she was tired from chasing both Rose and Hugo here and there. Ron gently smiled back. "I didn't even know you were home already."
"Just got here," Ron countered. Hermione slowly sat up. She leaned on Ron's shoulder as they both looked on to the hearth. "How was your day, 'Mione?"
Hermione closed her eyes. "Not bad, but tired. Rose and Hugo were asking for you the whole day. They said you promised to come home early to play with them tonight."
Ron sighed. "There was some trouble at the Ministry," he replied. "Here and there and everywhere. Harry and I got tied up for the last few weeks."
"But Harry manages to get home to his kids at the right time," muttered Hermione, though her head was still on Ron's shoulder.
Ron slightly shook his head. "I'm sorry, Hermione, but what do you want me to do? I need to work for you, Rose, and Hugo. Plus the fact that," Ron softly touched Hermione's tummy, "there's another little one on the way. How can I not work?" he asked.
Hermione Sat up properly. "I don't know, Ron. You think about that." She stood up and straightened out her shirt. "I cooked your favorite dinner tonight. It's on the table. We were expecting you to come early. Rose and Hugo refused to eat tonight. They thought you were coming home."
"It's unhealthy not to eat dinner," said Ron.
Hermione headed for the stairs. "Tell that to your disappointed children. I'm really tired, Ron. I'm heading to bed. I just waited to make sure you come home safely. Please do clean the plates when you're done with dinner." Without another word, Hermione disappeared into the second floor.
Ron frowned. He headed to the dining room and found roast beef on the table. He sat down, but suddenly lost his appetite. "I'm sorry, Hermione," Ron muttered. He leaned over and buried his face on his hands. "I'm really sorry," he sobbed.
A/N: More to come every two days. Hope you enjoy this one.