Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing of hers!
Chapter 36
"We should take a family photo before we go," Hugo commented, reaching from his beach chair into Jean's bag, overflowing with everything they could possibly need for a day at the beach.
That's where she gets it...Ron thought.
Hugo continued to dig through the bag, muttering to himself under his breath. Hermione noticed he had exerted himself as he bent over searching. She walked over to her bag and instantly pulled out their magical camera, looking like a vintage muggle style.
"It's alright, dad. We can take some with mine," she smiled, resting her hand on his shoulder, helping him sit upright. She found another beachgoer to snap a photo, as Ron helped Hugo move toward the water, the place where Jean had suggested would take a beautiful picture. Hermione handed the device to the kind man who had agreed to be their photographer for the next few moments. The muggle raised his eyebrow at the seemingly ancient technology he was presented with. Hermione smiled nervously.
"It's, uh, vintage," she managed before picking up Rose, settling the tot on her hip, then moving to stand between Ron and her father. Ron wound his arm around Hermione's waist as they all smiled happily for the camera. Rose began wiggling, not often having her photo taken with so many people.
"Shh, Rosie. One more, see, there? Smile big sweetheart," Hermione grinned as she pointed in the direction of the camera.
After thanking the muggle, Jean retrieved the camera, and stopped Hermione from packing up and heading to get some ice cream, as the sky was changing rapidly revealing the night stars.
"Wait, one more? This time with you three?" Jean suggested smiling, as Ron helped Hugo carefully back down into his chair.
"That's a good idea, mum," Hermione called from the edge of the water. Rose had rushed over as soon as the photo was done for some last minute splashes in the waves.
Ron made his way over to his girls, and collected the squirmy toddler to swing her legs into the water, causing her to shriek with laughter and the water to fly up and rain down on them. Ron held Rose on his middle, and held Hermione's hand, walking back to where Jean wanted the photo to be taken.
"There, that's perfect!" She called, holding the camera up to her eye, looking through the small viewing point.
Ron wrapped his arm around Hermione, much like in the last photo. This time, she placed a hand behind his back resting it on his freckled skin, and rested the other on his toned stomach. Rose leaned forward, wanting down, out of her father's hold, and back into the warm ocean water.
"Water, daddy! Play in water!" She huffed, still trying to wiggle her way out of his grasp.
"Goodness Rosie, you can go back in just a moment. Who knew you were such a fish!" Hermione commented, reaching up to tickle the girl's tummy, making her happy once more, before returning her hand to Ron's abdomen.
"Rosie, look at Nana!" Jean called, causing the tot to snap her attention to the woman holding the camera, smiling widely.
"That was lovely!" Jean exclaimed, smiling widely.
"Now, let's pack up. We seem to be losing daylight rather quickly! Then, I'll drive us up to the ice cream shop," Jean explained, heading over to their beach blanket to gather their discarded items from the day. Ron helped Hugo back to the car slowly through the deep sand. Hermione toted Rose to the car, so distracted by her desire for ice cream that she had forgotten about the water.
After the family had enjoyed an hour at the parlor, Ron and Hermione decided it was time they return to the Ministry to Floo home. Ron watched Hermione as she sensed their time together was coming to a close. He squeezed her hand before they said their goodbyes.
"Ready?" He whispered, as Jean was cleaning off Rose's sticky face while the tot was sitting on Hugo's lap. Both entranced by the small girl.
Hermione nodded, tears pushing at the back of her eyes. Ron knew this would be difficult; now that their relationship had been mended, and Hugo's health was still changing; leaving was completely different than last time.
"Well, I'm sorry to say, but, we must get going if we want to catch our Flo-flight, back," Ron explained, forgetting they were in a muggle shop, but, recovering quickly.
A solemn look spread across the faces at the table. Ron gave Hermione's hand another supportive squeeze, then stood to escort her father to the vehicle. Jean followed, holding Rose. Hermione lifted the nappy bag and pulled herself away from the parlor and toward her family.
They could all see the tears Jean and Hermione had been choking back. Jean bounced Rose on her hip a few times and hugged the tot.
"Now, you be a good little girl for mummy and daddy, yes?" Jean whispered to Rose while she straightened the tot's bathing suit cover. Rose nodded, not grasping that she wouldn't see her for a very long time.
"I love you, Rosie," Jean kissed her ginger curls, as the tot wrapped her arms around her neck.
"Wuv you Nana," she mumbled, causing Jean to hold in a sob. She paced over to Hugo, leaning against the car with Ron nearby, silently asking if he wanted to hold the tot. He held his arms open and held the child to his chest, giving her a tight hug.
"We'll see you soon, Rose. We love you," Hugo said kissing her cheek. Rose looked at her grandfather and wrinkled her eyebrows. She twisted to see her mum, still standing back on the pavement with silent tears streaming down her face. The tot thought for a moment and then turned back to her grandfather to hug him as well.
"Bye Papa, wuv you."
Hugo handed the small girl to Ron while Hermione paced over to her mum, both women now bawling. Hermione squeezed her tightly and more tears poured out. Jean whispered reassuring words into her bulging plait. Ron couldn't help but see where Hermione learned how to comfort Rose when she was upset. Ron was even more thankful that the pair's relationship had been reconciled.
Hugo took the opportunity to shake Ron's hand firmly. The tall ginger could see his eyes glistening with stubborn tears.
"Take care of them," Hugo commanded gently, at which Ron nodded.
"The best I can, sir." Hugo smiled at that.
"I know you will," He responded, believing even further that this young man was precisely the one for his daughter. Speaking of whom, was breaking away from her mum, wiping her tears roughly from her face, their taxi pulling up a few spots down in the lot.
"You'll c-call if any-th-thing changes, y-yes?" Hermione asked, hiccuping slightly as she asked the question.
"I'll call every day, darling. And if anything changes, you'll know seconds after we do."
That seemed to suffice Hermione, giving her mum one last quick hug. She went around the car and hugged her father, wishing that she could embrace him tightly like she did when she was a child. But, a lot has changed since then.
She released a sob and her breathing picked up rapidly, Ron watched closely. He wanted to intercept, but, knew Hermione needed her father right now.
"Darling," Hugo pulled away from the hug and placed his hands on each side of her red face; wiping the tears away with his thumbs. He gazed into her eyes, making sure she was watching his streaming tears as well.
"It's going to be all right. I promise you, everything will be fine," Hugo reassured his daughter. He kissed her forehead and hugged her once more.
"I love you, Hermione."
"I l-love you, da-addy."
Hermione stepped back, holding onto her middle tightly, to keep them from enclosing around her father again. Hugo bent down and sat in the car, while Ron clicked the door shut. Jean was wiping her face as she backed out, exiting the lot and disappeared down the street.
Hermione released a huge sigh. Wiping her eyes one last time, she picked up the discarded nappy bag from the pavement and paced over to the cab. She climbed in the middle while Ron placed Rose in her car seat on the right side. Hermione fastened the tot in securely while Ron climbed in next to Hermione and gave the driver their address.
As they began to leave the ice cream shop, and traveled toward their destination, Rose looked out the window and pointed things out.
Car. Twee. Star. Pwetty lights. She was most enthused with their drive, and if Ron wasn't mistaken, trying to cheer her mum up with her knowledge of the names of things.
Ron felt something soft and tentative on his shoulder. Looking over, he saw bushy locks of hair perched on his shoulder. Ron could feel her shuddering breaths because of how close they were sitting. He wrapped his arm around her shoulders and pulled her closer to him. She instantly melted into his embrace and was thankful he was the rock she could depend on.
Ron set their daughter down as soon as they exited the Floo. She rushed to her toys and began pulling out her favorites. Ron paced over to the couch, flopping down on it, straightening his legs out on the floor in front of him. He splayed back against the cushions and rubbed both hands over his hands over his tired face.
Although they had gained time returning to England, the trio was exceptionally tired from the stress and excitement from their recent holiday. Hermione sat the bag on the lounge floor and opened it. Kneeling next to it, she pulled her wand out and cast all the clothing to be washed, dried, and put away. She also unpacked Rose's toys, and other miscellaneous items they needed to care for their young daughter. When Hermione was done, she covered a yawn with her hand and stood once more.
"I expect we should all turn in early tonight," Hermione sighed, too tired to want to complete their nightly routine. Ron pulled his hands away from his face, blinking blearily at the witch.
"Rose, do you want to take a bath? Or take a shower with mummy?" She called, as she picked up the regularly packed nappy bag and toted it to the bedroom.
"Take bath!" Hermione smiled as she noted they needed to work oh Rose's "th" sound. Then grimaced when she realized she wouldn't be able to do double duty and take a shower while cleaning her daughter. Ron noticed her realization and jumped in.
"Here," Ron said standing, "I'll give Rose a bath in the guest bathroom while you can shower in yours."
Hermione glanced over at Ron, once again completely thankful that he was there.
"Really? Thank you," Hermione closed the distance between them and kissed his cheek. Ron grinned and decided it was best to get started.
"Alright, Rosie. Ready to go take a bath?"
Rose jumped up and began toddling toward the room Hermione and she had been using since their arrival.
"No, love. You're going to use this bathroom, to take a bath, with daddy." Ron gestured to the washroom down the other hallway. Rose's brows scrunched in confusion, looking between her mum and dad.
"Mummy and Daddy?" She questioned curiously. Hermione wasn't sure just what the tot was at; Ron's bathed her loads of times without her assistance before.
"No, mummy's going to take a shower in hers, while Daddy'll give you a bath in the other one," Hermione explained to the toddler, brushing some red curls away from her soft cheeks. Rose's face still contorted as she processed the message.
"No!" Rose shouted loudly, rushing to cling to Hermione. The embrace was so sudden and unexpected, Hermione wobbled before she caught her balance.
"I wiff mummy!" The toddler demanded, her face smothered in her mum's dress covered legs.
"But, I thought you wanted a bath?" Hermione asked the tot, glancing up to Ron with a puzzled expression. He reflected hers and shrugged his shoulder unable to concoct an explanation for their child's behavior.
"I go wiff mummy!" Rose announced into Hermione's legs. The witch shook her head in disbelief. She was beginning to believe her daughter's rapid change in behavior was going to give her whiplash. She sighed, and pried Rose's small arms from her legs.
"Alright, let's go have a shower then." Hermione mouthed a "thanks anyway" to Ron and led the tot to the washroom.
Twenty minutes later, Ron was relaxed on the bed, looking over the mail they received during their trip. A freshly dressed Rose exited the bathroom and attempted to scale the side of the bed, pulling on the duvet and hoisting her weight up toward the mattress. Hermione followed shortly after, wearing pajama bottoms and a long-sleeved nightshirt; her hair still dripping and a toothbrush shoved into her mouth. As she viewed her daughter climbing onto the bed unsuccessfully, she reached down to her nappy covered bum and pushed gently to give her the support she needed. Rose happily pulled herself the rest of the way up, and crawled over to her father, who was still reading sheets of parchment. She plopped on his chest, not caring that the sudden weight caused her father to grunt.
"Ugh. Rosie! You've got to be gentler," Ron illuminated trying to be stern, yet, dropped his papers to the side table and cuddled his daughter.
"Mummy all okay, daddy. No needed worry," The tot murmured into his chest as Ron reached for her dummy. Ron looked toward Hermione with raised brows. Hermione sighed.
"Later," She mumbled through her toothpaste filled mouth, disappearing back into the washroom.
"Well, good then. Daddy won't worry about it," He whispered to his daughter, popping the dummy into her mouth, wrapping her in her blanket, and tucking her lamb inside her cocoon.
Hermione returned from the washroom and snuggled into the bed next to Ron and their daughter. She reached for a book about a rabbit wearing a blue jumper, and began to read. Within minutes the tot was out cold.
"Thank Merlin," Hermione yawned, levitating the book to the dresser across the room. She stretched her arms over her head and relaxed onto the fluffy pillows.
"What was she talking about? She was acting awfully odd tonight," Ron questioned, adjusting the tot on his chest, so he could lean to face Hermione. The tot lazily pooled into the mattress, cuddling into her burrow further. Ron laid his elbow out, and propped his head up on his hand.
"I don't know. When we were in the shower, she kept asking me if "mummy was crying." I told her it was just the water from the shower, but, she kept on. Eventually, I got to her level and said that I was okay and there was nothing for her to worry about."
Ron thought about Hermione's words. Trying desperately not to think about Hermione in the shower, with water caressing her naked body…
Get it together Ron.
Rose had always been concerned about Hermione. It's only been the two of them for her entire life, up until Ron came into the picture. The two obviously had a very close bond. So, it would make sense that she would be concerned with how her mum felt; especially with her anxiety attacks, and the depression she went through while raising a child by herself.
"I think I'm ruining her," Hermione whispered.
Ron's eyes snapped back to the present, he wasn't sure how long he'd been lost in his thoughts. But, it was long enough for him to see a now, teary Hermione, shifting her arm up higher near her face wiping a fallen tear.
"Hermione," Ron began.
"I am always such a mess. Constantly crying over something, that my own child must be the adult and make sure I'm alright? It's messed up, Ron!" Hermione insisted quietly. She wiped more tears that slipped away, sniffling and burrowing herself deeper in her pillow.
Ron couldn't believe what he was hearing.
"Hermione, you can't really believe that, do you? Rose adores you. She worships you. You've been going through a lot lately. She's seen you cry. So, what? She's just concerned about you, that's all."
Ron stretched over to wipe a tear from Hermione's cheek. He reached back and brought the cradled Rose against his chest, allowing him to scoot toward her. Now, Rose's bundled back was against Hermione's chest, and the couple's foreheads were almost touching.
"Look at her, Mione," Ron insisted gently. The witch swallowed and looked down at their snuggled-up daughter; her eyes still glistening.
"She's perfect, love. She's healthy, happy, and brilliant. That's all thanks to you, Hermione." Ron could see her breathing calm as she watched their daughter sleep.
"You're not ruining her," He gently added.
"If anything, you're showing her that it's okay, to show emotions… how to handle stress properly. You're doing it right, love."
Hermione gave a weak smile, another tear running down her cheek as her lips snapped back into their resting position. Sniffling gently, she burrowed deeper into her pillow and eventually the pair fell asleep.
The pair originally planned to have a final day off to catch up with things before heading back to work. Yet, upon their return they realized both of their careers had developments neither one wanted to put off.
Hermione's new law proposal was getting a bit of a setback at the moment. Someone in the higher ups at the law department decided they would postpone the decision about the law for the following year. Hermione was furious, as she had been pushing for a law giving house elves their rights and entitlements since the day after she had entered her new position. She demanded the head of the decision committee, Vernathy Albroach, give a reason for such a sudden push back, for which he claimed the processing time would take longer, therefore it's new date. Hermione knew it was complete and utter rubbish. After venting about it to Molly one day after picking Rose up, the matriarch mentioned Percy was directly involved in the proceedings of new laws, he was also good friends with the very same man who had ordered a new date. After speaking with Percy, a dinner meeting was scheduled with the pair, along with Vernathy Albroach and a few other important heads. Percy also warned her that Albroach was a misogynist, and insisted that she bring Ron along, if for nothing but a male on her side with a high position as an Auror. Hermione knew it was her last chance to get this law completed this year. She was determined to do it, even if she had to play by the misogynist's "rules" to get it.
Ron couldn't believe what he had been told when he returned to the Ministry. They had a raid during his absence, causing them to shift around members according to their knowledge and experience on the force. They needed every member they could, in the possibility that something went horribly wrong. McLaggen had been included as well considering he hadn't finished his training for the specialty force yet. During said mission, McLaggen had actually apprehended two of the men wanted, by himself. This caused a great stir among the men and women on the force. Many of whom, trusted Ron's depiction of the man, originally. Yet, now after being on a mission with them, they were unsure what to think of the man. This put Ron out to no end. He had no idea how McLaggen happened to detain two of the well sought after Death Eaters. Perhaps, he was craftier than Ron originally presumed. He would have to keep a closer eye on the Auror. He trusted his gut, and he knew he couldn't trust him.
The week sped by. With work bustling for both the witch and wizard, they were thankful for a weekend to spend with their daughter. Ron intended to keep date nights up whenever they could, but, that Friday, they were both much too exhausted to consider leaving. Instead, they spend a quiet night in, ordering take-away, and playing with their daughter.
Ron had been continuing the arrangements they had begun consistently in Australia, and slept in the same bed with Hermione nightly. This particular night, Rose had passed out cold on the mattress; sprawled out in the center sleeping heavily. Hermione was lying on her stomach with her head deep into her fluffy pillow, much too comfortable to move her tired body. Ron was still sitting up against the headboard, reviewing some paperwork tracking one of his most desired Death Eaters. He blinked hard and squinted his eyes, stretching them, then finally rubbing them with his hand.
"I think they're trying to tell you that you need some sleep, love," Hermione mumbled from the other side of Rose, blowing a curl out of her mouth with a puff of air.
Ron shuffled his parchment into a file and sent it flying to ever-growing pile in his home office. He scooted under the covers and turned to face the tot; who was making Hermione much too far away from him.
"I think it's about time Rose got her own room," Ron voiced the words he had been thinking about since the trio had returned from their holiday.
Hermione's eyes opened wide at this; before, they had been languidly closing and eventually staying that way.
"Why do you say that?" Hermione questioned, beat tired after her draining work week, but, still finding the energy to discover Ron's reasoning.
"Well, this for starters. I reckon she's taking up a third of the bed and she's only two!" Ron grumbled as he waved his hand at her sprawled out body.
"And a half..." Hermione added, before finding a solution to his first predicament.
"Besides, her cot is right there. You're welcome to put her in it," Hermione explained, thinking this conversation was simply about the amount of space he had to sleep, and settled again.
"That's not just why," Ron muttered quietly, but, there was something else in his voice. Was he nervous? Embarrassed? Hermione opened her eyes once more, to see him looking over to her.
"We can't really do much of anything with her in the same room as us," Ron uttered, stopping for a minute as she could almost see the tips of his ears turn as bright as a overripe tomato. Hermione swallowed, feeling her throat go dry and her face flush.
"We'd always worry if she'd wake up, and, well, I, erm… enjoyed what happened back in Australia." Ron cleared his throat, shuffling as he rubbed the back of his neck self-consciously.
Hermione thought for a moment. Of course, she wanted that with Ron. She was in love with the man for Merlin's sake! But… they had had so many misunderstandings and blunders. It made the proceeding step immense, and it was not one to take lightly. Hermione had to wonder: were they truly ready?
A few minutes passed as Hermione deliberated vigorously; the gears whirling and winding in her head.
"Mione?"
She turned to face a worried Ron. She smiled instantly to assure him.
"We… we could start planning Rose to transition to her own room. She would probably like that... and we would too," She whispered into the dark.
Ron gave her a crooked grin while Hermione had to wonder if they had made the correct decision.
The Sunday night dinner at the burrow was a welcome affair. They were happy to see the family again after being away for such a time. Angelina was in the middle of her fifth month pregnancy, and was elated to announce her morning sickness had finally left her. George said things were going well at the shop, and had some new products he'd be displaying for the Christmas season. Ginny's season had settled for the winter break. Giving her plenty of time to worry about the wedding preparations; the event a mere three weeks away. Also, giving her plenty of time to grumble and gripe about how Charlie had to return to Romania, based on an ill dragon he had the knowledge to care for. He promised he'd return as soon as he could, and absolutely in time for the wedding, not that it lessened the witch's gripes. Rose played with her aunts and uncles, happy to be back with her other family.
"Hermione, you need to try on your dress for the final fitting. The wedding is only a few weeks away, and we must have everything ready!" Ginny griped, blocking the witch from moving to help Molly clear up after dinner. Hermione huffed, and stuck her hands on her hips.
"Really Ginny? At this exact moment?" The brunette protested, glancing over to see Rose sitting on Arthur's lap, giggling joyously while he levitated a rubber duck in front of her.
"Yes, at this exact moment! Or else, you'll just put it off and it won't be ready in time!" Ginny grumbled. Hermione sighed and began to make her way up the stairs, rolling her eyes, while Ginny happily followed her.
Ron happened to catch Hermione's lack of excitement as she ascended the stairs, chuckling to himself. As soon as the women were out of sight, Harry leaned toward Ron.
"I swear she's driving me mental!" Harry whispered, causing Ron to laugh harder.
"It's not funny! The way she's obsessed with the wedding; it's, it's mad! All she can talk about is what the bridesmaids' dresses will look like, and what the appetizers should be… I don't even care!" Harry puffed, flopping back on the sofa and shaking his head in frustration.
Ron nudged him with his elbow roughly.
"Well, it's only a couple more weeks, yea? I think you'll survive until then," Ron attempted.
Harry grumbled under his breath. And stifled a groan when he heard Ginny calling him up the stairs.
Hermione heard a knock on her door. Internally groaning, she dipped her quill in the ink once more. She had been preparing as much as she could for her imperative dinner that Thursday, giving her only two more days to prepare. She couldn't believe how fast the time was moving, and if she didn't work exceptionally hard, there'd be no chance of getting her law passed within the year.
"Yes? What is it?" Hermione spoke, trying not to be rude, but making it very clear she was busy. She heard the door open, but, didn't glance up until she heard the familiar voice.
"Well, if you're too busy to see an old friend, then I could come by at a time when you're not busy. But, then I'd never see you."
Neville Longbottom stood in her doorway, carrying a knapsack on his back, and holding a beautiful exotic flower in a gardening pot.
Hermione dropped her quill and rapidly paced to him, hugging her good friend.
"Neville! It's so good to see you!" She exclaimed, happy that it was this kind of interruption and not Ruchekent coming in asking if she wanted another cup of tea. She could make her own damn tea.
"It's nice to see you as well. Been awhile, eh?" They pulled apart and Hermione shrugged.
"Yeah. Probably my fault. I wasn't thinking much other than I had to leave… back then," Hermione shrugged, not really wanting to get into that at the moment.
"So, is it true? I mean, …You and Ron, really have a child?" He wizard asked wondrously.
Hermione blushed and nodded.
"Yes, a daughter. Her name is Rose. She's two and a half now," Hermione beamed, causing Neville to grin as well.
"That's brilliant! I'd like to meet her someday," Neville commented, shifting the pack on his back.
"Why don't you come for dinner? Ron and I discussed that we should have you over once you were in town, again."
"Sure, I'd love that!"
"Great. Tomorrow maybe?"
"Perfect."
"Well, I'll see you then. It'll be nice to catch up," Hermione quickly hugged Neville once more.
He turned to exit, then swiveled once more when he realized he'd forgotten something.
"Oh! This is for you, by the way," Neville spoke, shifting the plant over to Hermione.
"It's a Cherubplumb. Something I discovered during my expedition. It likes to hum music and blow bubbles... I thought that if what the Prophet stated was true, your child -Rose- would enjoy it."
Hermione took the magnificent plant, watching as it changed colors now that Hermione was holding it. She transferred it to her desk.
"Thank you, Neville," Hermione said gratefully.
"You're welcome. See you tomorrow night." He left with a wave out the door.
Moments later, another knock came on her door. She called them in quickly, hoping that it would be something short.
"Miss Granger, sorry to interrupt, but, a date has been set in your trial," Auror Kensington spoke, closing the door, and walking into her office. Hermione quickly set down her quill and stood, eagerly awaiting the Auror's news.
"Ron's on an investigation this morning, so I wasn't able to tell him. The date for Miss Brown's trial is set for this Friday."
"Really?" Hermione was surprised to hear that it was only in three days' time…
"Yes, it seems they'd like a sentencing as soon as possible… Between the two of us, I think something big is happening soon, and they want to get all the smaller trials out of the way first. Now, like we discussed, you don't have to testify unless something goes wrong. Your written statements will be sufficient. The evidence is there, we just need them to convict her."
Hermione nodded her understanding, still shocked that it was finally happening.
Kensington nodded, and wished her the best, swiftly exiting out the door.
Hermione flopped back down into her office chair and gently placed her hands on her temples; elbows resting on her desk. She took a shuddering breath, trying to calm her stressed mind. Not only did she have her law proposal that week, but now, also a trial that she and Ron had been awaiting for months. She took several more deep breaths to calm her racing heart.
The dinner with Neville had been a smashing success. Hermione left work a tad early to have Molly help her with dinner. She wanted to improve her cooking skills, and there was no one better to learn from than Molly. Ron was in charge of cleaning the flat and making sure the table was prepped and ready to go.
A few hours later, the three adults and little Rose were finishing their dessert, at the table. The conversation flowed and changed from Neville's fascinating travels, to Ron and Hermione's frequently told explanation of the last several years.
"That's insane. Lavender really did all that? I mean, we knew she was bonkers in school, but, she's truly mad now!" Neville shook his head, surprised just how far the witch had gone.
"Yea, and now her trial is on Friday. It's been a long time coming if you ask me. I hope they'll put the bitc- uh, her, in Azkaban where she rightfully belongs," Ron vented as he gathered Rose from her high chair. He set the tot on the ground who paced over to the plant her Uncle Neville given her. As soon as Rose approached it, it turned a marvelous shade of yellow and glittered while bubbles floated from it, down onto the squealing child.
"You know that probably won't happen. I'll be pleased if there's a restraining order and parole. I wouldn't feel comfortable otherwise," Hermione shuddered, thinking how evil the witch could be; especially if she got off on this.
"Well, I hope she gets what she deserves. It's ridiculous that because of her letters, Rose and Hermione had to be without you, Ron," Neville added.
They continued their discussion as it moved to the den, where Rose had been playing. Rose was cautious of Neville, as she was with every newcomer, but, warmed up to him rather quickly. She brought him several of her toys, and Neville, for not having much experience with children, was a natural. Hermione smiled seeing her old friend with her daughter. This was one thing she was afraid would never happen when she was in America; seeing friends and family interact with Rose.
"So, Headmistress McGonagall offered me a position as the Herbology Professor at Hogwarts," Neville announced, nonchalantly. Hermione's eyes grew wide, while a smile spread across Ron's face.
"What! That's amazing Neville! Congratulations!" Hermione enthused.
"You'll be brilliant at that!" Ron congratulated him.
"Thanks. I'll be interning under Professor Sprout for the rest of the term, and then, if all goes well, I'll take over the first of September."
"Ron's right. You'll do wonderfully!" The witch beamed. Then added, "Perhaps you'll have Rose as your student one day."
They all chuckled at the thought, far in the future.
"She'll be a pleasure to have, considering who her parents are. You can already tell she's astonishingly bright," Neville complimented, watching as Rose was adding another piece to the puzzle they were completing together.
"That was all Hermione's doing, I assure you. I think all she got from me was the hair, and the eyes. Thank Merlin!" Ron quipped.
Although all the adults laughed at the joke, Hermione had to disagree, knowing that Rose had so much more of her father in her than they might have realized.
"Come on Weasley! Join us!" Avery, a fellow Auror, called, Ron was apprehensive about going to the pub. He hadn't had a drink since Hermione had returned with their daughter.
"Come on, you never come along anymore. Besides, you've earned it! Head Strategist at 21! It's unheard of mate!" He slapped the redhead on the back, and Ron was quite chuffed about it.
He couldn't believe he'd been chosen. His team is full of hardworking men and women who have been on the force much longer than he had. He had been chosen for the promotion of Head Strategist. Not only would he be jumping on the pay scale, but he would also be going on less missions, something he had been hoping for since Rose had come into his life. The Head Strategist planned the highest-level missions, and oversaw all the others, looking for potential flaws or better options. There were only a few missions he would have to go on, which were the absolute highest level of danger. However, it was unlikely he'd be sent at all. When Hartman called him into his office that morning, he wasn't expecting the promotion. They agreed that Ron would take the position, as well as finish the current string of missions he had been so loyal to. Ron was shocked, but so thankful that he wouldn't have to leave every few weeks for missions.
"Well... maybe just one. Then I have to go, Hermione would kill me if I'm not back in time for dinner." Avery rolled his eyes.
"Ah, this Hermione again. Am I ever going to meet this witch, or am I always going to hear stories about just how wonderful she is?" Avery teased his friend as Ron shoved him and said he'd meet them at the pub in a few minutes.
When he arrived, Avery was at the head of a long table, filled with the Aurors he'd be leaving in his Special Forces department. Next to Avery sat McLaggen, whom Ron was thankful to be leaving behind... and secretly thrilled he'd be able to watch his every move with his new position. Avery passed around the shots and slid one to Ron.
"To Ron, who will be the greatest Head Strategist the Ministry has ever seen!"
"To Ron!" They shouted as they downed their drinks.
Ron looked cautiously at his, before downing it himself, sputtering as it went down. Avery whacked him on the back.
"Can't handle it Weasley?" He asked, only partially concerned. Ron caught his breath again, and cleared his throat.
"Just been a while, I guess."
After some time, the Aurors spread around the pub and Ron found himself with a drink in his hand at a small table, while some of the other Aurors went to talk with a few birds that had walked in. Ron had begun to feel the warmth of his drink spread through his body, causing him to continue the drinks that the other Aurors provided him.
"If this doesn't prove it to you, then I don't know what I will."
Ron was startled to see Lavender Brown sit down next to him, with a scroll in her hand. He downed his drink, and turned to her, starting to feel the itching of a headache.
"Piss off Lavender." Ron glared at the witch. Remembering again how he couldn't believe she was on bail while they were setting up her trial.
"No, Ron. I promise, this is the last time I'll bring this up and then you never have to speak to me again. But, I feel once you see this, you might want to."
Ron scoffed, feeling the start of an aching headache coming on, and not wanting to engage with the blonde. Ron grumbled, but hoped she was telling the truth and would stop speaking to him after this.
"You left for the Auror Academy in the beginning of July, three years ago, correct?"
Ron sighed, passing on another drink to have some water. His headache began to pound, the irritation of the witch not helping at all. He needed to get rid of the bloody thing.
"Yea," Ron muttered, pinching the bridge of his nose.
"So, if Rose was really yours, she would have been conceived before then."
Ron glared intensely at the witch.
"This is none of your damn business." Ron growled. Lavender put up her hands in surrender.
"I'm just stating a fact. We both know it to be true. That would mean if Hermione shagged anyone else near that time, she may not know who the father actually is," The sly witch continued.
Ron couldn't understand where this headache came from, and why it happened so suddenly. He was annoyed with his former girlfriend, which didn't put him at any ease. The pain kept growing along with his irritation. He wasn't truly focusing on the witch's words but knew he didn't want to be talking with her about this.
"She's mine. End of story."
Lavender clicked her tongue and gave a pitying face to him.
"Were you aware that three days after you left for the Auror Academy, Hermione left for Australia with none other than your brother, Charlie Weasley?"
Ron didn't want to, but, ever since he discovered this fact, he had a hint of jealousy attached to it.
"How do you know that?" Ron questioned, now slightly interested, around the throbbing of his skull.
"I have my ways," Lavender smirked, leaning forward on the table, causing her to spill out of her dress a bit more.
"He only went down to watch over her family since I couldn't be there."
Lavender shook her head looking sympathetically at the redhead.
"That's what she told you, Ron. But, didn't you ever wonder if there was some other reason they were afraid to tell you about?"
Ron's head repetitiously thudded, he could hardly take it; but, there was something in him that wanted to hear what the witch was leading to. Lavender snapped her fingers in the air. Instantly a large piece of parchment appeared. She slipped it on the table, turning it around so Ron could read it completely.
"Perhaps this will convince you to finally believe me." She pushed the article closer to Ron.
Ron's eyes scanned over the parchment. It was an official document from St. Pieclick's Wizarding Hospital. Ron's brow furled as he continued to read. The location was listed as Portland, Oregon in the United States. Ron remembered Hermione saying she had lived just outside of the large city... His eyes drifted further as he got to the information of the actual document.
The Official Birth Certificate of Rose Minerva Weasley.
Mother: Hermione Jean Granger
Magical Status: Muggle-born
Father: Charles Septimus Weasley
Magical Status: Pure-Blood
Ron couldn't believe his eyes.
He rapidly blinked his eyes, trying to focus, and reread the document. It did not change. He quickly analyzed the features, hoping there would be a mistake that he could identify and prove Lavender wrong.
But, nothing.
Nothing was wrong.
They had Hermione's birth date and Charlie's correct. The time, date, location, all sounded correct to what Ron had heard. He looked at the signatures and stamps that made the document official. Ron felt hot tears push behind his eyes. His head was swimming in all the information and pounding relentlessly. He pushed the document away and rubbed his temple, fixing his sight on anything other than the witch. He felt a hand cover the one still on the table.
"I'm so sorry, Ron. That is why I wrote those letters."
Ron looked up then, this was the first time she had admitted to her crime. She had a grim smile.
"It was horrible of me, but, when I saw your letters, I just had to read them. My intentions were not good at first. But, when I saw her letter, saying she was pregnant and that it was yours… I looked into it, finding out that she shagged your brother in Australia." She tightened her grip on Ron's hand, almost painfully.
"I couldn't let her ruin your life, Ron. I knew it would hurt you too much. So, I wrote those nasty letters to keep you from the pain of her infidelity."
Ron just sat there, he could hear Lavender talking through the migraine raging through his brain. She scooted closer to him.
"I can't take this anymore."
A voice seemed to come out of nowhere. Lavender glared daggers at the man approaching. Neville stood between the two, at which the woman removed her hand from Ron's, but, still keeping it close.
"Excited for your trial tomorrow, Lavender? I sure am, to see you get what you deserve." Lavender rolled her eyes, and stood by the table. She ignored Neville and leaned toward Ron.
"I'm sorry you had to find out this way, Ron. I'll always be here if you need anything." She pushed the document closer to Ron.
"Keep this."
At that the witch strode from the pub.
Neville took her seat with a huff, taking a large swig of his pint.
"You can't tell me you believe her, Ron."
He shook his head. Ron closed his eyes and tried to keep all the emotions raging through him at bay. Instead of speaking, he decided to let the proof speak for itself. Ron pushed the birth certificate closer to the Auror. Neville scanned the document. He brought out his wand and looked for any magical manipulation, and if it was true that it had been created at St. Pieclick's in America.
All came back authentically.
Neville was stunned, yet, he still believed something more sinister was afoot.
"Ron, I know Hermione. Harry knows Hermione. If we both think that she couldn't have done this to you, then she couldn't have. You know her better than the both of us, and you know Rose is one hundred percent yours. Come on, Ron. You've got to trust Hermione!" Neville pleaded to his old friend. Ron stood and swiped the document from the table.
"I've got to go." Ron muttered, and took an awkward walk outside before walking into another pub and Flooing home.
Ron stumbled out of the Floo and into his flat's den. Cursing loudly as he knocked his leg on the edge of the fireplace's mantle. He bent down to rub his shin roughly. As he looked up he was met with a livid Hermione; rage and hurt, burning in her eyes.
"Where the hell have you been?" She hissed, shaking from her anger. Ron scoffed and rolled his eyes, Hermione studied him carefully.
"I went out with to the pub with some friends," He stated imperturbably, a layer of anger hidden beneath his words. He stepped past her to fall inelegantly onto the settee. Hermione's nostrils were filled with the pungent scent of alcohol.
"You're drunk," Hermione spat, utterly astounded that he came home that way. Ron chuckled mirthlessly.
"Doesn't matter. Not like I have a place to be," He mumbled, rubbing his temple from the horrid migraine that had been forming for the past hour.
"Doesn't matter?" She looked at him outrageously, "It's not like we had plans or anything!"
At the statement, Ron opened his eyes to glance at her. She was wearing a plum colored dress stopping at her calves that fit her marvelously. Her curls were tamed and hung in smooth ringlets. Her eyes popped more than usual as they were framed darker than she would when she went to work. She looked exquisite. Another throb pounded as he realized just what she was dressed up for.
"Shit." He mumbled. Hermione let out a shrill laugh.
"Oh, you remember now? Remember how we were supposed to have dinner with the men who are to decide the fate of my new proposal?!" She shook her head, biting her cheek to keep her tempter under control.
"You're bloody lucky Rose is already sleeping so she didn't have to see her father: the drunk!" She spat, instantly regretting the words she chose, but, too livid to apologize. That hit Ron's last nerve, he couldn't help but think back to the conversation he had with Lavender at the pub.
"Always my brothers," He grumbled. Hermione leaned toward him and raised her eyebrows.
"Pardon? If you're going to row with me, you might as well speak up!" She hissed, furious tears pushing against her eyelids.
"Always MY brothers!" Ron shouted, still sitting on the couch, and wincing from his own voice growing louder. Hermione looked confused, and searched her mind for what he was talking about.
"What? Percy was your only brother there... What the hell do they have to-"
"You always have put my brothers first!" Ron wasn't sure where this sudden anger was coming from, but, he felt it fill him and the insistent need to press the issue.
"You've always liked them more!"
"What are you talking about?!" Hermione looked befuddled, but still raging.
"Curious, innt? How while I'm away at Auror Academy you just happen to discover you're knocked up?"
"Well, that's typically what happens after you've had sex. It's not like fireworks go off shouting 'You're pregnant' as soon as you've cum!"
"We used a contraceptive charm!"
"You could have cast it wrong!"
"Oh, so now I can't perform a spell for shitting third years?! That's flucking great!" He slurred.
"You could have! And besides, we both know it's not completely effective anyways Ronald!" Ron scoffed.
"I want a paternity test."
She was so dumbfounded by his statement, said completely calm, that she couldn't gather a reply; leaving her speechless.
His head wrought with pain, yet he still felt the need to continue.
"After all, you went to Australia with him, for what? A month after?"
"W-what?"
"You and Charlie. You both went to Australia, remember? You said nothing happened."
Ron's eyes grew cold, which made Hermione step back in surprise.
"That's because nothing did happen."
Hermione looked uneasy at the way Ron was reacting. He grew livid at that. He stood to his full height, trembling with the hurt and fury he was overwhelmed with feeling.
"DON'T BLOODY LIE TO ME!" He roared, stepping toward Hermione.
"I'M NOT LYING TO YOU!" She screamed back, yet not recoiling away from him. Hermione could hear Rose crying in her cot, muffled behind the closed door. Looking up at Ron who was about a foot away from her, she could see so many emotions swimming in his eyes. He was raging, and he cringed, and cranked his neck to the side before he spoke.
"Shit! Just admit it! You shagged him! I have proof right here!" He shoved the parchment in front of her. She gingerly plucked the item from his hand and scanned it quickly. Her face changed from confusion to shock and hurt.
"Ron… You know this isn't true. This isn't Rose's birth certificate!" Tears were welling in her eyes.
How could he think this is true?
"It's an official document! Has all the stamps and official things on it!" Ron couldn't come up with anything better in his altered state.
"Ron, I am telling you, this isn't true! I have Rose's real birth papers! You are her father!" Ron chuckled humorlessly, and shook his head in disbelief.
"You knew he'd never settle down, so you came to me hoping that I would make it look like you weren't some bloody slag!"
Ron was met with a stinging slap to his face. He didn't even notice that the witch closed the space between them. Ron's head was in excruciating pain; his ears were ringing as he caught the devastated look on her face, seconds before she turned and left to her crying child.
He grunted and rubbed his cheek, still prickling with heat from the initial contact. He made his way to the kitchen cabinet where he kept his stash of potions. He quickly downed the same sobering vial he used to have as a part of his daily routine. He felt a small effect, but, nothing to what it normally did. Next, he tried a pepper up potion, causing nothing to change. He growled and reached in the far back to an emergency vial. It was a potion that should clear up any poison or curse that he could encounter in his career. After drinking that vial, his head started to clear, the ringing in his ears stopped, and his physical pain was finally being relieved.
That is when he thought of the words he said to Hermione.
He could beat himself he screwed up so badly. He dashed to the bedroom, and knocked on the door rapidly.
"Hermione? Please. Please open the door."
He was met with silence. Ron felt desperate, he needed to apologize, he messed up… it had already gone far enough.
"Please Hermione, I didn't mean it. I know you didn't do anything. I... I was so wrong. Hermione, please. I'm so sorry." He knocked again.
Nothing.
"Hermione open the door, please!" He pleaded, hoping she realized just how desperate he was to speak with her.
He still heard nothing but silence. Ready to face whatever hex or curse that was coming for him, he tried jiggling the doorknob, finding it surprisingly unlocked. He swung the door open, stepping into the room.
"Mione, I-" He stopped when he realized that Hermione was nowhere to be seen… and neither was Rose. He walked into the attached loo, thinking it was possible she went in there.
Nothing.
When he returned to the room, he finally noticed that all of Rose's things, as well as Hermione's had vanished as well.
A/N: Please don't hate me! Remember what I said about this story... and trust me. Okay? I will be responding to reviews as soon as I can. I wanted to get this chapter out since I'm a week late in doing it. I promise I am writing as much as I can right now while keeping my sanity.
To the guest reviewer "Kele": I update whenever I have the time. Right now it's very limited. However, I hope this massive chapter makes up for it!
Please, please, please drop a review! I am very eager to hear your thoughts and theories on this one... Thanks again to all who read, follow, favorite, and review! Over 410 reviews? That's completely overwhelming (in a good way.) THANK YOU!