A/N: The reviews we've been getting have been making us laugh and very excited to post more. Keep it up! You are all awesome. Enjoy, from Mr. Friction
October 31, 2008. (Sent: 3:52 pm)
Hello Draco,
Happy Hallow's Eve. How are you doing? Are you getting by in a suitable fashion? Your mother is worried about you, and I suppose I have begun to have my doubts about your wellbeing. You know that you can always constrict your availability at Saint Mungo's—I know they have come to depend upon you but if you work yourself to insanity you may just end up a patient. Please do not emulate your Black genetics.
You did not need to become a Healer, though it worked out conveniently for the family that you took an interest in the profession. Social standing or not, your health is much more important. I would have spoken to you sooner but at first it seemed you enjoyed your career. Now I am wondering if it is only an escape from whatever goes on at home with Astoria and Scorpius.
Please pass on my greeting to Astoria and also inform her that I will not be referred to as Grandfather, Granddad or Grandpa Lucius until I am at least eighty five years of age. Surely she will understand and will drill this into Scorpius straight away. You can also inform her that she looked a lot more attractive when she was several pounds heavier, and dark blue simply is not her colour. Your mother agrees with me, but she wouldn't dare say.
How is Scorpius, anyway? Is he speaking full sentences yet, or is it still unintelligible cries and screeching noises? If he is still behind in speech, you may want to seek out a specialist. Either that, or let Astoria know that she is lacking in parenting skills. Perhaps a nursemaid would be more suitable?
You have not come around in several months. I think it is due time that you and I met for dinner. Your mother is also dying to see you. Would it kill you to send her an owl every once in awhile? You know how she gets, Draco.
More to the point, is something the matter? Your mother is concerned that you have been drinking too much, but I told her she should not worry. Should she worry? Honestly, Draco, of all the habits you could pick up. If have decided to become an alcoholic, please do it secretly. This family has encountered enough public shame in the last ten years. If you need to get help, do it quickly and discreetly. You may ask for any amount of money you require. You can give me as many details as you want, or not.
How is the estate in Herefordshire treating you? Still nicely, I presume? Has the gnome problem come to a halt? Apparently there are now fines for killing them. This world has gone mad, if you ask me (but no one seems to, anymore). I also received post from the Ministry that it is due time for the house-elves to attend a "meeting regarding their rights". Obviously, I threw the letter in the fireplace straight away. There are some things I simply will not tolerate.
All my love,
Father
November 1, 2008. (Sent: 2:01 pm)
Hello Father,
Please tell Mother I'm sorry I have not come around. I have been rather busy, but I'm planning to stop in for a visit within the month. How is everything with you? Did you attend that charity event for Muggle-Born Advocacy? If so, tell me how they received you. Is the booing and hissing getting quieter? Have they resorted to throwing spoiled vegetation rather than hurling curses? I'm wondering how many blasted Galleons it will take to get everyone off our backs.
The last time I passed on your suggestions to Astoria, it did not go over very well. If you want something said, you can certainly say it yourself (though truth be told, I do agree with you regarding her weight loss). Scorpius has been talking more frequently these recent weeks. His favorite thing to say is, "No, thank you." From seven to nine pm, he runs from me as I try to put him to bed saying very courteously, "No, thank you!", "No, thank you!". I suppose I should be happy he has manners.
Don't worry. I am not an alcoholic. I'm merely bored and restless. On that note, Pansy says hello to you and Mother. And before you ask again, no, I'm not going to shirk my family duties and run off with Pansy to live in the wilds. I can't tolerate her long enough for all that. Besides, if I do decide to run off you will know because I would have to consult with you to help me set up a hidden bank account. (Kidding, of course.)
In confidence: Was there ever a time when you doubted your relationship with Mother? From what I have witnessed, even when you were going through problems, you two seemed to be very supportive of each other (even perhaps when you shouldn't have been—don't get sensitive, you know it's true). Astoria is not exactly unsupportive but I feel she does not understand me much and that my life has become a blank, boring spiral. Your thoughts?
Your son,
Draco
