Author's note: Hello everybody! This was a chapter I had a bit of trouble writing. I hope you enjoy it!
~..~..~..~..
Queenie woke up slowly, her mind reluctant to wake from the wonderful dream she'd been having. She and Jacob were together, in their little apartment above their bakery, and she was cooking dinner while he taught their daughter how to make pastries.
Yes, it was a purely domestic scene, and as usual, not very glamourous. But Queenie's heart had felt so full of love, she couldn't imagine anything more perfect.
As wakefulness finally brought her to reality, her eyes snapped open.
It was her wedding day.
Her dream was no longer a dream. Now, it could become a true reality.
Queenie couldn't help it, she let out a giggle of pure delight as she sat up in bed, just as her sister entered the room, carrying two mugs of steaming liquid.
Cocoa, she noted from her sister's mind.
"Do I hear giggling?" Tina asked in amusement as she passed her sister a cup.
"Yes, I confess to giggling," Queenie admitted proudly. "And I confess to feeling happier than I've ever felt in my whole life!"
"Good, so you should be," Tina smiled. Queenie's joy was infectious.
"Now, let's get you ready for the altar."
~..~..~..~..
Credence swallowed as he regarded the new suit Queenie had got him for Christmas. It was a dark, navy blue, a colour that Credence had never been allowed to wear before.
Even though he'd had his new clothes for a couple of days now, he had still worn his old ones. Credence had told himself it was just force of habit, but as he regarded his new suit hanging innocently on the bedroom door, where he'd hung it up last night, Credence felt a sudden surge of trepidation.
But why? It was Jacob's wedding day, not his.
Reaching out, Credence ran his fingers slowly along the navy-blue fabric. It was well made, he noted. Not expensive, but still, far finer than anything he'd been allowed to wear before.
'Sinful' a voice hissed in his mind, and he mentally felt the sting of the belt buckle on his hand. Reflexively, he jerked his hand back.
"Ma," he whispered fearfully.
'Anything other than black, white or grey, will encourage the sin of pride,' he reminded himself.
"Credence?"
Credence turned to the suitcase lying on the floor as Newt carefully climbed out and into Jacob's small spare room, already dressed in an expensive blue suit, a few shades lighter than the one Credence owned.
"Come along, Credence," Newt ushered him as he straightened his own jacket. "We need to be off to the town hall soon."
"I…" Credence stammered, awkwardly, his gaze falling back onto his suit.
"What's wrong?" Newt asked.
Credence swallowed.
Newt wouldn't laugh, he told himself, taking a breath.
"Ma always said," he spoke slowly, "that wearing any colour other than plain black, grey or white would encourage the sin of pride. So," the young man swallowed nervously, avoiding Newt's eyes, feeling too embarrassed to finish.
"You've never worn colours before," Newt finished slowly and Credence nodded.
"Well," Newt commented after a pause, "this should be a new experience for you, then."
Credence continued to stand frozen, hunching his shoulders, trying to make himself smaller.
"Ma followed me here," he whispered, turning his hand over, as if expecting the belt.
"Credence, you've been doing so well," Newt reminded him. "And the only way your mother could have followed you here, is if you let her."
Credence lowered his head, trying to shrink further, as if guilty.
"Credence," Newt tried again. "Do you think Queenie is a prideful person? Arrogant? Self-centred?"
"No," Credence's head snapped up in shock at the question. "She one of the kindest people I've ever met."
"And have you ever seen her wear plain black, white or grey?" Newt prompted.
"No," the young man admitted, for the woman was usually in some shade of pink. Credence then studied Newt, who also wore bright colours, making him stand out from the crowd, and yet he was one of the humblest men Credence had ever known.
"Tell you what," Newt suggested. "I'm going to check on Jacob. If you don't feel up to it, you can always wear your old black suit, alright?" His voice wasn't judgmental, just supportive.
"Alright," Credence nodded.
"Nothing to worry about," Newt assured him before leaving to check on the groom.
Reaching out, Credence stroked the sleeve of his new suit once more, snatching his hand back as he mentally felt the sting of the belt on his hand.
'Sinful.' The voice in his head hissed again.
'No, Ma,' he told the voice in his head, closing his eyes tightly. 'You can't tell me what to do anymore.'
Queenie had bought him this suit so he could wear it to her wedding, he reminded himself.
She was one of the kindest people he knew…
Colour had nothing to do with pride, he realised. In fact, Credence cast his mind over the people he knew. Those who actually wore colours, such as Queenie, Tina, Newt, Willow and Dumbledore, appeared to be kinder than those who didn't, such as his Ma, Grindlewald, or Senator Shaw.
Taking a deep breath, as if to steel himself, he carefully took the suit off the hanger.
~..~..~..~..
Newt knocked on his friend's bedroom door.
"Are you ready, Jacob?"
He opened the door gingerly to see the baker fiddling nervously with his tie, struggling to get it sitting properly.
"Newt," Jacob said, his voice cracking slightly, "I think I'm going to have a heart attack."
"It's your wedding day," Newt stepped forward reassuringly, "it's natural to be nervous."
"I'm not nervous," Jacob insisted. It wasn't a lie, for he was so much more than that.
"You're not going to stand Queenie up, are you?" Newt raised his eyebrows.
Jacob's head shot up indignantly, "No!"
"Do you love her?" Newt asked.
"With everything I have," Jacob told him.
"Then what are you worried about?" Newt asked his friend. "You've got absolutely nothing to worry about."
Raising his wand, Newt used magic to straighten Jacob's tie so it sat perfectly.
"Wish I could do that," Jacob muttered in envy.
"Now come on," Newt gestured to the door. "As your Best Man, it's my job to get you to the altar in one piece," he told him. "You don't want to let your bride down, now do you?"
"My bride," Jacob repeated in a whisper, a smile tugging at his mouth. "Is it possible to be both excited and terrified by something?"
Newt smiled.
"Yes," he told him, "but, I believe, the excitement normally wins out."
~..~..~..~..
Mr Graves had just got himself his first coffee of the morning when he heard someone in the Leaky Cauldron's dining room whistle appreciatively.
Looking around, he couldn't spy the culprit, but he could see the cause, for Queenie and Tina had just descended the stairs.
Queenie's dress was cream and white, with simple lace straps, giving an almost Grecian style to the dress that was both feminine and goddess-like. Her curls were tight against her head thanks to an elegant head band, and a small string of pearls graced her neck. Her make-up was light, giving her skin and eyes an almost luminous quality.
Auror Goldstein, if Graves was honest with himself, was more surprising. For while her sister was continually dressing in beautiful, feminine, styles, Auror Goldstein was often more practical. So, to see her in the stunning turquoise and silver dress she wore for the occasion, complete with striking red-painted lips, Graves barely recognised her.
"Good morning ladies," Graves stood up to greet them. "You two look as if you're off to a wedding."
"Yes, we are," Queenie couldn't stop smiling, and her joy was so great that even Graves began to smile. "Very observant, Mr Graves."
"Oh, I'm not Head of my Department for nothing," Graves answered smoothly.
"Isn't my sister the picture of a beautiful bride, Sir?" Tina said proudly, linking her arm with Queenie's.
"Indeed, she is," Graves bowed to the bride graciously. "And you look lovely yourself, Auror Goldstein. Though I hope you'll change before returning to work this afternoon," he continued lightly.
"Oh, don't worry, Sir," Tina assured him. "I'll be back to my plain old self in no time."
"I dunno, Goldstein," someone called out. "Maybe if you dressed like that more often-"
"You sure you want to finish that sentence Harcourt?" Graves cut him off, barely even turning his head.
Silence was his only answer.
"Wise move," Graves said calmly before turning back to the women.
"I hope the morning goes well, ladies," he told them. "And congratulations, again, Miss Goldstein," Graves kissed Queenie's hand elegantly.
"Thank you, Sir," Queenie curtsied delightedly before taking up her sister's hand and leading the way out the door.
"I expect you at the Ministry promptly, this afternoon, Auror Goldstein," Graves reminded her.
"Yes, Sir," Tina assured the man before leaving with her sister.
Graves turned to cast his eyes over those of his team that were in the dining room, until he found Auror Harcourt.
"Was it you who whistled, as well, Harcourt?" He asked, no longer smiling.
"No, that was Berenson," Harcourt pointed to the man seated at the next table.
"Hey," Berenson objected. "Throw me into the dragon's den why don't you?"
"Both of you," Graves's voice was firm, "will follow me. We need to have a talk about the kind of conduct I expect in my team."
~..~..~..~..
Time seemed to running strangely for Jacob that day.
It seemed to only take an instant between getting himself ready at his apartment, and now, standing outside the Town Hall, Newt and Credence beside him, as he waited for the ladies to arrive.
And now the minutes were passing like centuries…
Newt had decided not to apparate them, feeling the walk to the town hall would be more beneficial in helping Jacob prepare himself. However, as the three men arrived first, Newt realised the waiting was doing nothing for his friend's nerves.
"Just keep breathing," Newt advised him quietly. "You've got nothing to worry about."
It was still a good idea to walk here, Newt considered, as Jacob forced himself to take a deep, slow, breath. Otherwise, he reasoned, they'd have been waiting even longer.
"Here they come," Credence pointed, and Jacob and Newt turned to see the women making their way towards them though the crowd.
Jacob felt himself struggling to breathe again as Queenie approached. In her white dress, she seemed like an angel who was suddenly walking amongst the mortals on London's streets.
"Oh, Jacob, honey," Queenie sighed happily, giving her husband-to-be a radiant smile. "You look so handsome."
Jacob couldn't speak, but thankfully, he didn't need to, with Queenie.
"You are so sweet," Queenie gushed, kissing him softly, hearing his admiration in his mind.
"You look lovely, Queenie," Newt told her politely, and the woman gave a curtsy in gratitude of the compliment.
Newt's eyes, however, were subtly on Tina.
And if Newt had thought that, having seen her in the turquoise dress previously, at Christmas, it meant he was prepared for the effect, he had been sorely mistaken.
"Good morning, Miss Goldstein," Newt stammered, as he once more clasped his hands behind his back, having handed his case to Credence to hold, for the duration of the ceremony.
"Good morning, Mr Scamander," Tina greeted warmly. "I see you decided to wear the blue suit."
"I had it on good authority that I should," Newt smiled shyly.
"I'm glad you did," Tina smiled in return before her eyes landed on Credence.
"Oh, Credence, don't you look dapper," she complimented, before moving forward to straighten his tie like a fussy aunt, causing a blush to bloom across the young man's cheeks.
"That's the suit we got him for Christmas," Queenie smiled happily, brushing some of his hair out of his eyes fondly, thinking she should offer to cut it for him, soon. "Doesn't he look handsome, Teenie?"
"He does," Tina nodded, causing Credence's blush to deepen.
A small van pulled up at the town hall and Credence looked up to see Mr Branch, from the flower shop, climb out of the driver's seat.
"Flowers for Queenie Goldstein, soon to be Queenie Kowalski," he announced with a smile, recognising Jacob.
"Oh, Jacob," Queenie gushed as Mr Branch brought forward her bouquet full of pink and white flowers, that Jacob had picked out for her.
"Thank you so much," Queenie smiled gratefully as she claimed her gift.
"Congratulations to you both," Mr Branch told them with a smile, doing a slight double take as he finally recognised Credence.
"You're Mr Barebone, yes?" He queried, and Credence nodded in surprise.
"Eliza and Willow told me about you." Mr Branch gave him a measured look. "My wife and I never had children, so I regard the girls in my shop as my own daughters," he said firmly. "I hope you treat Willow as a lady should be, tonight."
"Credence has a date?" Queenie asked before clapping her hands in delight. "Oh, I'm so happy!" She exclaimed. "Love is everywhere!"
"Time to go in," Newt prompted gently, noticing the time.
"Have a wonderful day," Mr Branch said, smiling in farewell, before glancing at Credence as he headed back to the van, to continue with the morning deliveries.
"Alright," Jacob readied himself as he offered his arm to Queenie, before leading the way into the Town Hall.
"Are you ready, my wife-to be?" Jacob asked, his nerves causing his voice to shake slightly.
"Absolutely," Queenie smiled.
~..~..~..~..
Their group had to wait only a few minutes before it was their turn, and soon, Jacob and Queenie stood before the Minister, Newt and Credence standing to Jacob's right, and Tina on Queenie's left.
"Welcome everyone," The minister, a pleasant, round-faced man in his late forties, began "we are here today to witness and celebrate the marriage of Jacob Kowalski and Queenie Goldstein. If there is anyone here who think that these two should not be wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace."
Jacob met Queenie's eyes as there was silence in the hall.
It was here that Tina had her first pang of worry. The other aurors knew Queenie was marrying a no-maj. And even though the wedding was being held in the no-maj Town Hall, would anyone come to object the union?
Tina was glad she'd brought her wand, just in case.
But still, the silence dragged on.
"Very well," the Minister smiled, "let us continue."
"Oh, good," Tina sighed in relief, not realising she'd spoken out loud until laughter rippled from the other couples who sat in the hall, waiting their turn.
Covering her mouth guiltily, Tina caught her sister's eye in a wordless apology, which she answered with a reassuring smile.
"May we have the rings?"
Newt stepped forward carefully, passing over the box.
"Jacob Kowalski," The Minister began, "do you promise to love and cherish this woman, and be true to her alone, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Jacob said softly, not taking his eyes of his bride for a moment as he slid the simple gold band onto her finger, where it would remain forever.
"And do you, Queenie Goldstein," the Minister continued, "promise to love and cherish this man, and be true to him alone, for as long as you both shall live?"
"I do," Queenie's smile was radiant as she slid the gold ring onto Jacob's finger, marking him as her husband.
"Then, by the power vested in me," the Minister smiled, "I pronounce you, Husband and Wife."
Jacob's nerves fell away until he couldn't stop smiling.
"You may kiss your bride," the Minister told him.
As they kissed, Jacob relished the fact that he was now not only kissing Queenie, the woman he loved…
But his new wife.
~..~..~..~..
They returned to the Leaky Cauldron, to have a quick celebration, before Queenie had to pack her bag to leave the hotel and move into the apartment. Everyone had changed out of their glad rags, but Tina felt it was her duty, as Maid of honour, to ensure everyone gathered one last time to celebrate the happy couple in lieu of a proper reception, and so, despite the early hour, she ordered everyone a single round of drinks.
"Speech!" Queenie cheered.
Tina sighed, gathering her nerve as she stood up. She had never been very good at this sort of thing, but, as Queenie's only family, she had to go through with it.
"Queenie," she began hesitantly, "I wish Ma and Pop could have been here today, to see their little girl get married to the man she loves. And I know, they are looking down right now, seeing you so happy, and being as happy for you as I am. Uh…" she had to take a breath as she suddenly felt her emotions well up.
"it's okay, Teenie," Queenie spoke up, wiping her own eyes.
"Jacob," Tina continued, forcing her voice to keep steady. "I have looked after my little sister her whole life. For the longest time, it's just been me and her, and I'm so glad to have you join our little family. I am entrusting my little sister, the most precious thing in the world to me, into your care, now." She swallowed. "And knowing what a kind soul you are, Jacob, I'm sure you will treasure her as much as I have."
"I promise, Tina," Jacob swore sincerely, placing a hand over his heart in emphasis.
"To Mr and Mrs Kowalski!" Tina toasted and the group raised their glasses to toast the happy couple.
"That was beautiful, Tina!" Queenie gushed, wrapping her sister in a hug.
Once the glasses were empty, it was time to disperse. Queenie had to get ready to move into the apartment, before she and Jacob were to go to the Ministry to finalise Jacob's exemption from the International Statute of Secrecy. Tina had to go into the Ministry to re-join her team and get briefed on what has transpired with the French Delegation and any Grindlewald sightings in France, and Newt had to visit his publisher regarding his first book promotion the following day.
"Would you care to join me, Credence?" He asked him.
"Yes, thank you," Credence nodded. He had originally thought to go back to Hogwarts, but, as he was meeting Willow that evening, it would surely be easier to remain in London until the time came.
"And I'd be happy to take you back to Hogwarts for the last couple of days of the Christmas break, later." Newt added.
"He has a date with Willow tonight," Jacob reminded Newt quickly.
"Right," Newt nodded pensively. "So, how about you come to my flat afterward, and I can apparate you to Hogwarts then?" He suggested
"Alright," Credence agreed.
"Will I see you at my book promotion tomorrow evening, Tina?" Newt queried hopefully, as the woman made to leave. "It'll be in Diagon Alley."
"Of course, Newt," Tina nodded. "I wouldn't miss it."
"We'll be there too," Queenie spoke up.
"Oh, you're newly-weds," Newt waved them off. "I'd understand completely if-"
"We're coming, pal," Jacob's voice was firm. "We helped you catch all your creatures in New York, we are going to be there, to help you promote the book you wrote about them."
"Thank you," he told them.
"Me too?" Credence asked hopefully.
"Of course, Credence," Newt told him, and the younger man smiled in relief.
How had he been so fortunate to have gained such true friends? He wondered.
"You're a true friend yourself, that's how," Queenie told him, giving him a hug.
~..~..~..~..
Tina arrived in the Auror department of the Ministry of Magic just as twelve o'clock struck, with a sigh of relief, before making her way to the offices at the back.
Walking through the maze of desks, Tina noticed the cubicles were rather empty. 'Well it is still the holidays,' she told herself. Nevertheless, she quickened her pace.
Approaching Auror Scamander's office, Tina noticed a large group of people, those of both her team and the British, were just exiting in a rush, and suddenly had the feeling something important was happening.
"Ah, Auror Goldstein," Graves greeted cordially, if a little tense, as he checked his pocket watch. "You're right on time."
"What did I miss?" Tina asked as aurors continued to push past her out the door.
"Possible Grindlewald attack in a French Wizarding hospital," Theseus Scamander explained quickly.
"The hospital?" Tina repeated.
"It appears," a middle-aged gentleman, sporting a small beard, spoke up from where he stood at the table, "that Monsieur Grindlewald is searching for another obscurial, after his first attempt failed in New York."
"Auror Goldstein, this is Deputy Head Auror Leon Cousteau, of the French Ministry," Graves introduced his auror, who nodded respectfully as Auror Cousteau nodded curtly in return. "And these are his colleagues," Graves added, gesturing to two equally well-dressed gentlemen who had been off to the side, observing the scene, "Auror Phillippe DuBois-"
"Enchante," the man bowed politely to Tina.
"and Auror Pierre Bovary," Graves finished.
"A pleasure to meet you, mademoiselle," the man bowed, his attempt at English commendable, as his thick French accent indicated that, unlike Auror Cousteau, he was unfamiliar with the language.
"They arrived yesterday afternoon," Graves explained, "you really didn't miss much," he added aside to her, quietly.
"Auror Goldstein," Tina introduced herself to the newcomers before turning back to her boss. "What happened at the hospital?" She queried.
"I was going to get Bennet to brief you, but, seeing as you're here," Graves considered, leading her over to the table, where a map of Paris lay.
"This is what we know so far," Graves began, "it was discovered yesterday, that someone had been accessing the records of the wizarding hospitals throughout France."
"Ordinarily, we would not consider this strange, but not overly concerning," Auror Cousteu took over. "However, when our department was reminded of the obscurus that was discovered in New York, and how Grindlewald had been trying to protect it, and failed… We assumed then, he would naturally try to find another."
"You think he's trying to find them in the hospitals?" Tina queried.
"We don't think," Auror Cousteau answered firmly. "We know." Gesturing to the map, he indicated the location of the wizarding hospital in Paris, which was lit up with red lights.
"Earlier today," Auror Cousteau began sombrely, "A large section of the hospital was destroyed, and several staff were killed."
Tina took in a slow breath.
"There was an obscurial being kept in the hospital, wasn't there?" She spoke up. "Grindlewald found them. Probably the staff tried to stop him," she continued thoughtfully. "The obscurial couldn't handle it, and so, the obscurus attacked."
Auror Cousteau raised his eyebrows, glancing at Graves, who gave a quick smirk.
"Precisement, Auror Goldstein," the French Auror said. "The marks on the dead were the same as those on Senator Shaw in New York. Thankfully, the obscurial was killed, though, unfortunately, Grindlewald escaped. Our Head Auror, Delacroix is there now."
"With all due respect, Auror Cousteau," Tina spoke up quietly, "I hardly think the death of a child is anything to be thankful for."
"Grindlewald failed to get his hands on a living weapon," Cousteau countered. "Why the hospital allowed such a danger to the public to be kept on the grounds is beyond my understanding." The man frowned as he studied the red lights blinking over the location of the hospital. "I will be speaking to our Minister about this."
Tina had to grind her teeth together as she reminded herself she could not argue with a foreign Deputy Head Auror regarding the laws and regulations in his home country.
"Did any one actually see Grindlewald?" Tina asked instead, keeping her voice as measured as possible.
"No, though that doesn't mean much," Graves admitted drily. "He's already proven how good he is at disguising himself."
"Everyone at the scene, in the ward itself, died when the obscurus attacked," Auror Scamander added. "It was actually due to the obscurus attacking, that the wards around the room broke, destroying that section of the hospital, and making the obscurial's presence there, known."
"It was a high security ward," Auror Cousteau informed them gravely. "The kind of power required to break those wards…"
"Perhaps it was Grindlewald himself who destroyed it," Auror Scamander mused, "trying to get the obscurial out quickly, when they started to lose control?"
"We will not know for certain until Head Auror Delacroix has completed the investigation," Cousteau reminded him.
"And what about the obscurial?" Tina queried. "Has their family been notified that their child has died?"
Auror Cousteau gave her a steely look.
"How do you think the obscurial got sent to the hospital in the first place?" He asked. "The obscurial killed his family. Records say, he was sent to the hospital, as the court ruled a prison was no place for a six-year-old boy."
"He was only six?" Tina asked in shock.
"Nine," Cousteau corrected. "He'd been in the hospital for three years."
'So young,' Tina thought, fighting to keep her composure as the French Deputy was still regarding her critically and she was determined to prove her professionalism.
"Course of action?" She queried, knowing her job was simply to ask for orders, at this stage.
"I've sent an owl to Madame Piquery," Graves informed her. "We'll probably be ordered to leave when she gets back to me."
"Leave?" Tina echoed and Graves nodded seriously.
"Get ready to pack your bags again, Auror Goldstein," he told her. "You may be seeing in the New Year in Paris."
~..~..~..~..
That evening, Newt dutifully escorted Credence through the city to the place he'd be meeting Willow for their night out.
"Okay, this is Regent street," Newt informed Credence, having escorted him from his flat so he'd be able to find his way back. "The cinema is just up there, look," he pointed to where lights were flashing on the side of a building, "you can even see it from here."
"Thank you," Credence said gratefully, though Newt could hear a definite tremor in the young man's voice.
He could sympathise. A first date was anxiety-inducing for the average person, so he could only imagine how someone like Credence would be viewing the situation.
Didn't have to imagine too much, though, as Newt, preferring the company of his creatures to most people, had made every effort to avoid dating most of his life.
Leta had been the closest person he'd come to really 'dating', although, come to think of it, they never did actually go on an official 'date.'
He'd never taken her to dinner, they just ate together in the Great Hall.
Although, when you're at school, he considered, it was very different to when you were an adult.
Considering this, Leta's image in Newt's mind was suddenly replaced by Tina's, and he felt his breath catch in his throat.
'What if I asked Tina on a date?' He wondered. "Would she say 'yes'?
'Stop it, Newt,' he told himself sternly.
"Newt," Credence still hadn't moved from his spot. "What- what am I actually supposed to do?"
"Sorry?" Newt asked.
"On a date," Credence asked, finally getting the chance, and the courage, to ask the question that had been nagging at him all day. "What am I supposed to do?"
Newt sighed.
"I'm far from what anyone would call an authority on these matters, Credence," he admitted, but seeing the look in the younger man's eyes made Newt feel he should try to say something, to give him a guideline on dating etiquette.
"Make sure you compliment how she looks," Newt suggested, scratching his head nervously. "That shouldn't be too difficult for you. Uh," he stammered as Credence was giving him his full attention, absorbing every word.
"Try to be a gentleman," he continued hesitantly. "Open the door for her, and- do you have any muggle money?"
Credence nodded, placing a hand over his jacket pocket.
"Good, it's often the man who pays," Newt told him. "Even if the woman insists on paying her share, some do," he informed with a smile, "and a gentleman should at least offer."
"Alright," Credence nodded, listening attentively, and Newt realised Credence must be highly inexperienced if he was taking his advice so keenly.
"Last, and most important thing," Newt finished, "would be to relax, and listen to her. You won't enjoy yourself if you're busy worrying, and-"
"Worrying makes you suffer twice?" Credence spoke up, a small smile tugging at his mouth.
"Exactly," Newt nodded before pointing along the street.
"Now, off you go." He encouraged. "Best you get there before she does."
~..~..~..~..
Jacob's heart was pounding in his chest.
After hours of form-filling and waiting at the Ministry, he had finally gained his full exemption from the International Statute of Secrecy, meaning he was, officially, a part of the wizarding world.
Now, he was opening the door to the bakery and apartment, welcoming his new wife home.
Queenie had been at their bakery and apartment earlier that day, of course, to unpack her bags, but now, with only the moonlight illuminating the room, he suddenly felt his nerves from earlier, returning with a vengeance.
His wife led him through their bakery by the hand, and up the stairs to their apartment. As the apartment door closed behind them, Queenie used her wand to light the room before coyly removing her coat.
"Have I told you how beautiful you are, today?" Jacob asked softly as Queenie turned to hang her coat on the peg by the apartment door.
"Yes," she smiled as she met his eyes.
Approaching his wife slowly, Jacob reached out to gently run his fingers through her blond curls.
This woman was his wife, he had to remind himself. How could he have ever hoped to be so lucky?
Queenie smiled, hearing the sincere adoration in her new husband's thoughts.
"I think I'm pretty lucky to have a man like you, Jacob," she told him before kissing his lips softly.
Gingerly, Jacob's fingers traced the elegant curve of her neck until he reached her shoulder.
Carefully, shyly, Jacob placed a soft kiss on the spot where his fingers rested, on the nape of her neck, and was rewarded as a soft gasp escaped Queenie's lips.
Reaching up, Queenie stroked her husband's face, her fingers tracing his forehead, his jaw, his lips…
"Jacob?" Queenie's eyes showed concern as she gazed into his face. "Why are you shaking?"
'Because I'm terrified,' he thought instantly, wincing in chagrin, knowing she'd hear him. However, Queenie simply kissed him gently, trying to reassure him.
"I'm kinda nervous, too," Queenie admitted a little shakily. "But I love you, Jacob."
"I love you, so much, Queenie," Jacob whispered reverently. "I…I'm just afraid of disappointing you," he confessed slowly.
Queenie's face softened, and she kissed him tenderly.
"I don't think you'll disappoint me at all," she told him surely as their lips parted.
Possibly hearing the confusion in her Love's mind, Queenie elaborated.
"The kiss you gave me?" Queenie's fingers reached up to stroke the base of her neck, and Jacob's eyes couldn't help but follow her movements. "It started a fire," she whispered.
Jacob swallowed.
"And if you can do that with a kiss…" Queenie's lips claimed her husband's before trailing small kisses across his jaw.
"Then I don't think you could ever disappoint me, Honey."
Gently, Jacob cupped Queenie's face in his hands. This was the woman who loved him. Who had broken the law to be with him. Who had married him.
And he was determined to be worthy of her.
Throwing his fears out the window, Jacob claimed his wife's lips with his own…
~..~..~..~..
Credence stood nervously outside the theatre. He'd never been on a date before. Girls never found him interesting, and there was a reason he could go through New York, practically invisible.
Besides, he spent most of his time handing out leaflets for his mother, and that had never been very conducive to getting a girl's attention.
What girl would notice him anyway?
'Willow did,' a voice in his head reminded him, and he felt his heartrate increase.
"Credence?"
Turning, Credence saw Willow approaching him, wearing her long black coat to keep out the cold, though her long hair was now tied in an elaborate braid and twisted into a knot at the nape of her neck. And, Credence noticed, she was actually wearing make-up. Her eyes were highlighted so that Credence was startled to realise they were a pale green, whereas her lips had been painted a dusky rose-pink.
Credence swallowed, trying not to stare.
"Good evening, Willow," he greeted, clearing his throat nervously. "You look lovely."
"Thank you," Willow smiled as she took in his appearance. "You look rather dapper yourself."
Credence ducked his head, trying to hide his blush as he nervously ran his fingers over the fabric of his new suit jacket.
"This was a Christmas present," he explained, unable to think of anything better to say.
"Well, they have excellent taste," Willow told him surely, and it was only then that Credence realised they were one member short.
"Where's Miss Musgrove?" Credence asked, and Willow appeared to be fighting the urge to roll her eyes.
"Eliza says she's sick," Willow informed him, though her tone appeared to be sceptical. "She says she wishes us a pleasant evening."
"I'm sorry to hear she'd not well," Credence said politely. "I hope she recovers soon."
"Oh, I'm sure she will," Willow said drily, trying to hide a smile. "Thank you, Credence."
She led him to the counter and ordered their tickets, though as she reached for her bag, Credence remembered Newt's words.
"I'll pay for them," he offered, taking out the English pound notes he carried.
"Are you sure?" Willow asked as, the last she'd heard, he still hadn't found any paid work, yet she didn't want to push the matter and risk embarrassing him.
Credence nodded, handing over the money to the teller. He didn't have much, though, thankfully, he hadn't needed to spend much during his time in England so far, and with Jacob's bakery starting soon, he would soon have paid work.
"Thank you," Willow smiled gratefully, which was enough to make Credence blush again.
As they entered the theatre a few minutes later, Willow removed her coat to reveal the blue dress she wore underneath. The dress itself was simple, but elegant, rather like the dresses Queenie usually wore. The fabric clung to her figure and the asymmetric hemline revealed a flash of Willow's legs as she sat down.
"What is it?" Willow asked, and it took Credence a few moments to realise he'd been staring.
"Sorry," he apologised, before mentally shaking himself. "What did you just say?"
"Nothing," Willow replied, smiling slightly. "Have a seat."
'Stop it, Credence,' he admonished himself as he sat down, trying to avoid looking at the woman beside him. 'This is not 'being a gentleman'.'
'Sinful,' the voice at the back of his mind hissed. And Credence forced himself to breathe deeply as he felt the obscurus latching onto his nerves, trying to find an outlet.
'Go away…' He told the monster in his chest.
"So, welcome to your first cinema experience," Willow whispered as others took their seats around them. "What do you know about it?"
"Not much," Credence admitted, regaining control. "I've always had the impression it was like watching a play, just on a screen, instead of a stage?"
"A logical assumption," Willow granted, "but it is so much more than that. Admittedly, there's no sound, so you can't hear the dialogue, but it's written on the screen. As such, there's a great focus on the musical score accompaniment and the physicality of the actors; their movements and their facial expressions. They're what tell the story. Then there are the visuals," she continued, her enthusiasm for the art showing clearly, "the pictures themselves. Because it's on film, not a stage, they can record the scene in the actual environment it's set in. So," she concluded excitedly, "you can actually see the rain, or be right in the middle of a sword fight."
"And what is this film called?" Credence asked.
"'The Black Pirate,'" Willow informed him. "Eliza saw it with another friend of hers last week, but I couldn't make it," she explained. "So, she was going to see it with me, today. It's an action movie, starring Douglas Fairbanks, Eliza's favourite American actor."
"An action movie?" Credence echoed.
"And it's in colour!" Willow gushed.
Before Credence could comment, the lights began to dim in the theatre.
"It's starting," Willow told him. "They normally play a short cartoon before the film," she explained in a whisper.
Sure enough, the screen began to flicker as music began, filling the room, causing Credence to jump slightly in surprise.
"Everything alright?" Willow whispered, leaning closer in concern.
"I didn't expect it to be so loud," he admitted.
"It has to be, so everyone can hear," she whispered, her lips close to his ear so as to be heard through the noise. "Just sit back and enjoy the show."
~..~..~..~..
"So, what did you think?" Willow asked eagerly as they exited the theatre.
"It looked so real," Credence answered slowly.
"That was the first time I'd seen a movie in colour," Willow admitted. "And yes, the colour made all the difference. And the music!"
Credence studied Willow, a smile pulling at him mouth at her enthusiasm.
"You like movies, don't you?"
"I like stories," Willow clarified. "And movies are a new way to tell stories."
"What's your favourite thing about them?" Credence asked curiously as they began to make their way along the street."
Willow thoughtful for a moment, considering. "The characters," she answered carefully. "If your audience can't relate to your characters, there's no connection. Take the Duke, who became 'The Black Pirate' for example: Did you hear the audience cheering for him, at the end?"
"That was a cunning thing the Duke, did," Credence spoke up. "Joining the pirates to get revenge on his father's death. How is revenge a good thing?"
"But he got his revenge, not by killing anyone," Willow countered, "but by taking control and using that power to protect the innocents on the ship they'd captured, as well as the noblewoman they'd held for ransom, before encouraging the other pirates to rise against the Pirate Lieutenant. I think," she continued pensively, "that, while most people think revenge is simply 'killing the other guy,' it's actually not as 'black and white' as that. It's making someone pay for a crime, when no other avenue will allow it. There's more than one way to get a job done," Willow granted, "and the Duke was able to best his enemy whilst keeping his honour. Stories can sometimes allow us an outlet to imagine we can do, have or be things that, in reality, we can't do, have or be," she summed up.
Glancing up at Credence, she took stock of his expression as he stared at her, before averting her gaze awkwardly.
"But, that's just my opinion though," she said breathlessly, swallowing. "Sorry, I went a bit deep there."
"No, don't be sorry," Credence told her. "I've never hear anyone speak like that. My whole life, all I've heard is: 'if you stray from the path, you will go straight to Hell.'"
Willow stopped walking to meet his gaze.
"No offence, Credence," she said slowly, "but your childhood sounds rather awful."
Credence considered before nodding.
"Yes," he admitted. "But my sisters helped."
"I'm sorry," Willow said quietly in sympathy. "Tell me about your sisters," she encouraged, resuming the walk. "Are they back in New York?"
"Yes," Credence answered slowly, not wanting to mention one was dead, and the other in an orphanage. For, most likely, Willow would ask what happened, and then, what would he say?
"Okay," Willow nodded in encouragement. "Anything else? Names? Ages? Anecdotes?"
"Oh," Credence realised, ducking his head. He really wasn't good at this.
"Chastity and Modesty," he answered. "Chasity's a little younger than me, and Modesty's the youngest, at ten." He became quiet as he tried to think of a story about them. "All of us were adopted, though Modesty and I were quite close. I miss Modesty," he admitted.
"You may see her again," Willow encouraged, linking her arm with his. "And you can always write to her."
Credence's eyes widened.
"You're right," he told her slowly. "I can write to her." He'd never actually considered being able to write to his little sister. He could tell her he was getting control of his magic, and explain how she didn't have to be afraid of him anymore…
"I might do that," he mumbled, thinking.
As they turned onto Willow's street, it began to snow lightly, and Willow giggled as she tried to catch snowflakes on her tongue.
"Didn't you and your sisters do this?" She asked Credence, who stared at her, uncomprehendingly.
"No," he admitted. So, Willow tugged on his hand, encouraging him to join in.
Eventually, they reached her flat door, near the jewellery shop, and Credence felt himself tense.
What was he supposed to do, now? He wondered, wishing he'd asked Newt the appropriate way to end a date. Glancing at Willow, Credence realised he may just have to take his cue from her.
"I hope you enjoyed your first film experience, Credence," Willow said hopefully.
"Yes, thank you," Credence nodded. "I'm getting a lot of 'firsts' here, in England, actually."
"Really?" she queried. "Like what?"
"Well," Credence stammered. "First film, first friends, first… date." Maybe, he supposed if he told her, she'd forgive any mistakes he'd unknowingly made.
Or laugh at him, he realised, too late.
But he needn't have worried, for Willow's bemused expression softened.
"This was your first ever date?" She asked and Credence nodded.
"That's adorable," she smiled. "I am honoured," she told him, placing a hand on her heart. "And, a little surprised," she admitted.
"Surprised?" Credence echoed and Willow raised an eyebrow.
"You do remember a drunk Eliza gushing over how good looking you were the other evening?" She prompted, giving a shrug as Credence blushed.
"One would think a girl would have caught your attention by now, is all," she explained.
"Just you," Credence confessed softly, and this time, it was Willow who blushed.
"Wow," she whispered, and Credence began to wonder if he'd made a mistake, before she smiled.
"I think that's one of the sweetest things I've heard," she told him. It was then that Credence noticed her shivering, and the snow began to fall more thickly.
"Goodnight, Credence," Willow said quickly, noticing the snow falling harder. "I'd better let you go now, or else you'd freeze before getting home."
"I'll be alright," He protested, not wanting to leave her yet.
Smiling, Willow reached up and planted a small kiss on his cheek. She was so short, it was lucky she was standing on the doorstep.
"Goodnight, Credence," she told him, turning to unlock the door and enter the flat.
"Good night, Willow," he whispered, so quietly, he didn't think she heard him as the door shut behind her.
Credence barely registered the snow falling around him as he stood outside Willow's flat. Slowly, he raised a hand to his cheek, a smile tugging at the corner of his mouth.
Turning, he made his way down the street, heading back to Newt's flat.
He may not be an expert, but, Credence thought, as first dates go, he felt that went rather well.
~..~..~..~..
Author's note: So, what do you think?
Remember Credence telling August that he'd never worn colours before? I thought he may have to address that as he got ready for the wedding, and Newt, being the non-judgemental person he is, would be gently encouraging Credence to make his own choice, reminding him of the people he knew.
I wanted Queenie's dress to be simple- she'd not wealthy, after all, but still very beautiful I googled some 1920s wedding dresses, and saw this beautiful sleeveless one that looked almost Grecian, and thought would be perfect for her.
And, of course, seeing Tina dressed up as she was would surely be a surprise for her work mates, and you usually get at least one idiot, so I thought Graves, again, being the professional person he was, would stand up for his auror, whilst reminding said idiots of proper conduct.
I think that Jacob and Queenie are actually Jewish, but as they were just having a simple wedding at the town hall, I just gave them a rather basic ceremony.
Was it too simple though? I didn't think they'd want anything fancy.
I thought of focusing a bit more on Newt and Tina during the ceremony, having them glance at each other as Queenie and Jacob say their vows, perhaps, but I didn't want to detract from Jacob and Queenie's moment.
Now, even though this was essentially a 'fluffy' chapter, I had to still bring our attention back to the real matter at hand: Grindlewald. So, when Tina returns to work, we discover Grindlewald found another obscurial in France. I figured that, as Grindlewald was apparently seeking an obscurial in America, perhaps he'd try again in France?
I admit, I know next to no French, so have had to look up the correct words and spelling of the few French words I used in this chapter. As such, I'll likely have my French characters speaking English for the most part.
Deputy Head Auror Cousteau is a man I've tried to portray as thinking that a woman shouldn't do a 'man's job', and so is critical of Graves' decision to have Tina on his team, yet is nevertheless impressed when she can make connections so quickly.
But, while I think that Deputy Head Auror Cousteau, may see women as being 'too emotional' to do 'men's work,' I don't think he'd be outright patronising/misogynistic. I see his viewpoint more like: 'women and men are different. So, while a woman can be powerful, how can she do the same job a man does?' He doesn't yet get the idea that: a woman can do a man's job, but she doesn't have to do it the same way as a man to get it done well.
Following me?
Now, back to the fluff: Credence's first date.
What did you think?
I figured Credence would ask Newt for help, being one of the only people he could ask. Newt, I knew would not consider himself qualified for the task, but would still try to help, anyway.
I did some research on some movies in 1926, and was tossing up between two:
I thought he and Willow could see 'Sparrows', which is a drama about a young woman who saves a baby from kidnappers, and features a horrible 'baby farm' in the middle of a swamp, run by a cruel couple, Mr and Mrs Grim.
I figured this would prove a challenge to Credence, and possibly trigger his obscurial. In a muggle movie theatre…
However, while this may cause drama, and cause him to wonder whether he could conceivably have a real relationship with Willow, I thought he'd really been through enough already, and had had many points already, when his obscurial was triggered, and didn't see the point in triggering it here.
I wanted Credence to be able to just be a young man, for a change, out on a date with a girl.
And, I realised I wanted Willow's character to be one wo helps Credence experience the things he never had the chance to, in the past: like having fun catching snowflakes on your tongue.
So, I had them see the movie portrayed, which was a very famous one, apparently. Only the third movie ever to be done in colour, and also the first film we ever see the 'slicing of the sails' stunt: when the hero is in the rigging of the ship and jumps, stabbing a sail with a knife to slow his descent to the ship's deck, slicing through the sail as he falls.
So, what did you think?
Please leave a review. I love feedback!