A/N: Let's please talk about the GREATEST review I've even gotten on this story: YOU AINT RIGHT, WHY IN THE FUCK WOULD YOU HAVE HER BANISHED, I'M SO FUCKIN' PISSED BECAUSE JUST WHEN YOU THINK THEY GET TO GETHER AND GET TO HAVE A HAPPY ENDING YOU GO AND HAVE STUPID SHIT LIKE THIS HAPPEN. FUCK YOU AND LUCIOUS
Needless to say, I laughed really hard at this! Hahaha. And for those of you waiting patiently for an update on I Know You Know, it will be out sometime this week. Don't stress. PLEASE KEEP REVIEWING.
Chapter 31: Pomp and Circumstance
"What's the problem, Lai? Come on, this is exciting! We're Hogwarts alum! We never have to see Peakes again!" Ginny said, smiling.
Leolin smiled weakly back.
"Yay for small victories," she said clinking glasses with Ginny somewhat unenthusiastically.
That morning they'd all gathered on Hogwarts's resplendent grounds to celebrate their graduation. As exciting as the moment should have been, Leolin had been hoping against hope that Draco might show up, despite the fact he still wasn't allowed to step a foot on the castle grounds. Of course, in the end he hadn't, and though Leolin couldn't tell Ginny, she had been extremely putout. She desperately wanted to see him. They'd agreed to keep their newly-rekindled romance a secret, and she hadn't been able to slip away this evening to see him before the party.
Ginny and Leolin and the rest of their classmates were currently attending the second part of Hogwarts graduation, which was the Commencement Ball. The Commencement Ball was a Hogwarts' tradition that took place the night of graduation in Wizarding London in which students, alumni, and their families came to celebrate with drinks and dancing. Ginny had been trying to lift Leolin's spirits since they'd arrived, but she was still a bit gloomy. Draco wouldn't be able to come to this either, and this made the whole event decidedly less exciting in Leolin's mind.
Ginny had barely finished exalting the fact that they were done with Peakes before he was inexplicably heading in their direction. It was also tradition that the professors attended The Commencement Ball as well, and though the students tried to avoid them, the professors seemed to feel it was their unpleasant duty to engage in awkward dialogue.
"Blimey, he's heading over here," Leolin hissed. "Reckon he heard you?"
"I dunno," Ginny replied, trying to pretend she didn't see him coming.
"Ladies," he said when he was close enough. "Congratulations."
"Thanks, professor," they both muttered unenthusiastically.
"You're not my students anymore," he said in a bored, almost annoyed tone as he regarded them though hooded eyes. "I suppose you could call me Tieran now, though I rather preferred that you didn't."
Leolin fought the growing urge to roll her eyes. If he didn't want them to call him that, why'd he bloody say it in the first place?
"We're good with professor," Ginny clarified awkwardly.
"I suppose, Miss Weasley, our paths might cross at The Petty Diplomat from time to time." He said it like the very idea was morally repugnant.
"No offense, sir, but I sincerely hope not."
"Quite so," he sniffed.
Leolin desperately hoped the conversation was over, but he seemed determined to drag it out.
"So," he began again. "What are the two of you doing post-graduation?"
"I'm going to university at Leeds," Ginny said. "I dunno what for yet."
"And you, Miss Lefevre?"
"I'm going to France to study Muggle paintings done by famous Wizards."
"With Muggles?" he asked in a bored tone.
"No," she said, annoyed again. "With Wizards. It's a sort of university module, I guess."
"I see," he said. "I'm a bit surprised you two aren't staying together. You were thick as thieves in my class. I suspect that's the reason neither of you attained an O on your N.E.W.T.S"
Here he looked specifically at Leolin, who scowled. Leolin had missed being in the top ten of the class precisely because she hadn't gotten that O, and Peakes seemed to know it. Sensing that Leolin was posturing for an argument, Ginny intervened.
"What's done is done, I suppose," Ginny said hastily. "Lovely chatting to you Professor, but I'm afraid we have to go. Perhaps we'll see you again soon."
He gave a dry smile.
"Most unlikely, Miss Weasley."
"Well then see you never Tieran," Leolin sneered with a salute. "C'mon, Gin."
Ginny gave Peakes one more tentative look before hurrying after Leolin.
"Merlin," she breathed. "That was awfully bold of you."
Leolin shrugged. "What's he to me? It not like we're ever going to be mates."
"I know, but—" she laughed a little. "You're right, I guess."
Leolin gave a small smile before it faded.
"Ugh, I'm so over this. Sorry Gin, I'm going to find my parents and go home. See you tomorrow maybe."
Ginny pushed out her lip to pout. "Already? It's only ten!"
"We've been here for almost two hours. Trust me, I'm way over my limit."
"Lai!"
"See you tomorrow."
Ginny huffed but let Leolin go. Leolin waded to the sea of people, occasionally dodging professors who got too close and keeping her eyes out for her parents. She finally found them milling together in a cluster looking somewhat suspicious.
"What are you all doing?" Leolin asked as she approached. Her mother was shaking her head before Leolin even finished her sentence
"Nothing," she said.
"We're just talking," her father amended, giving her mother a weird look.
Leolin frowned in response.
"Right, whatever. Well, are you lot ready to go? I've seen all my friends and frankly I'm avoiding my professors, so I'll like to go."
"Leave?" Amelie said. "Leave where?"
Leolin narrowed her eyes in suspicion. "Leave…to go home? Merlin, what's going on with you three?"
"Leolin, don't be so suspicious," her mother said, glancing at her father. "Nothing is going on."
Leolin wasn't convinced though. "Alright, then if nothing is going on you don't mind if we leave, yeah?"
Ariadne and Amelie exchanged a look.
"I want another drink," her father said. Leolin regarded the scotch in his hand. It was still half full.
"You've got a drink right there," she pointed out.
"Perhaps I want another when I've finished this one. Darling, what's your big hurry? This is your night to celebrate!"
"And I have done," Leolin said half-heartedly. "But now I just want to go home."
She raised her hand to stifle a yawn and her mother tsked, taking Leolin's left hand and examining it.
"I thought we agreed you were going to get your nails done today!"
Leolin looked at the polish. It wasn't chipped or ragged, but it didn't gleam the way polish did just after it was painted.
"I know, but I ran out of time."
"It takes twenty minutes to paint them. What were doing all day that you couldn't spare twenty minutes?"
Merlin, what are you, the secret police? I just ran out of time, is all. Besides, no one but you in looking at them, Mum."
Ariadne and Adrien exchanged a look.
"There's no need to get defensive, lapin," Adrien said. "You're mother is just asking a question."
"I just think it's important to look nice at social functions like this," Ariadne added. "You never know who you're going to see."
She raised her eyebrows.
"Mum, please don't start that. I've got to school with every bloke in this room since I was eleven. Believe me, if there was an eligible one in the bunch, I'd have snatched him up years ago."
Amelie shrugged. "You never know who you might re-connect with," she said, and for a split second it felt as if she knew about Leolin and Draco.
However, Leolin dismissed this. She'd been fastidiously careful.
"Okay, we're staying, then?"
"Yes," Adrien said, eyes flicked to the main entrance before regarding Leolin again. "We're staying for a bit."
"Alright," Leolin sighed, resigned. "In that case, I need some air. I'm going to the back garden." Ariadne exchanged yet another look with Amelie and Leolin shook her head before giving a resigned laugh. "You know where to find me."
"Have fun," Adrien said, and she gave another confused look.
"I will?"
She said skeptically before turning to the stairs and descending them. Her heels were beginning to make her feet ache. The lower corridors were dark and empty, and Leolin cut through the dusty entrance hall to expansive patio. She threw open the doors, reveling in the balmy June air. It felt good to be away from it all, and she tried not to pout anymore.
It was fine; she would see Draco tomorrow. They'd waited four months to see each other; they could wait one more night. That being said, it felt odd celebrating a big event like this without him…Leolin stayed brooding for another twenty minutes or so, wishing after about ten that she'd thought to bring a drink with her. Suddenly, the door behind her banged open.
"Leolin!" Astoria burst onto the balcony, heaving. "Where have you been? You have got to come upstairs!"
"What for?" Leolin said.
Astoria's face broke into a huge smile. "Come and see for yourself."
Leolin nodded her assent, and Astoria grabbed her by the wrist and practically dragged her back into the dark hallway. Leolin could hear something of a fuss coming from the ballroom, and she frowned.
"What the hell is going on?"
"Just come on!" Astoria squealed, dragging them up the gallery that overlooked the main dance floor so they'd have a better view. Leolin heard a bevy of voices.
She skirted around towards the main stairs, trying to get a better look. She saw McGonagall first, striding purposefully through the swelling throng.
"Come back here at once!" She cried.
Leolin followed McGonagall's trajectory and that's when she saw him. Draco was cutting through the crowd a lot quicker than McGonagall, and he was announcing in a loud voice, "Has anyone seen Leolin Lefevre?"
Leolin was too astonished to speak, but Astoria nudged her towards the stairs, and Leolin hurried down them. She broke into a trot when she reached the bottom, hoping to get to Draco before McGonagall.
"Draco," she hissed, "what the bleeding hell are you doing here?"
"Hello, Cal," he said casually as they met somewhere in the middle of the ballroom. "Sorry, I'm late. I had a little…trouble at the door. Seems McGonagall lost my invitation."
Leolin didn't smile.
"Draco, seriously, you need to leave. My parents are here. They can't see you."
Draco only smirked.
"Relax, darling. They know I'm here."
She gave him and incredulous look.
"What?" she demanded.
His smile only widened.
"My hand to Merlin."
"No," she said in disbelief. "No fucking way."
"Yes way," he said, raising his eyebrows. "Turns out your dad and I are mates now."
"What?" Leolin said. "How—" But Draco cut her off. He looked over his shoulder as McGonagall closed in. She was no more than forty-five seconds from catching up to him.
"Leolin, listen, I would love to sit here and chat about your dad, but I haven't got a lot of time."
He glanced over his shoulder, grinning mischievously.
"I still don't understand what you're doing here," she said, still half-whispering, though at this point their audience was nearly the whole ballroom. "And I can't believe that you convinced my parents to collude with you!"
"Yes, well," he said, smiling. "No one knows better than you how charming I can be. But listen, like I said, I'm on something of a tight schedule and there's something I have to say. Or rather, something I have to ask you."
Leolin had no time to process this, because McGonagall had finally caught up, and she gave Draco a look that could wilt a flower.
"Mr. Malfoy," she seethed, readjusted her wide black hat. "This is a private party for Hogwarts alumni and their families. Seeing as you are neither of those two things, I am going to have to ask you to leave. Immediately."
"Right, of course, Headmistress," he said, smirking at her. "But first I need to ask Miss Lefevre a quick question."
"Mr. Malfoy—"
"Draco—" Leolin said through clenched teeth. "What the fuck?"
"Look, darling, I'm sorry I don't have time to give this more pomp and circumstance, but as you can see, I'm really strapped for time."
"Draco—" she repeated, but when he fell to one knee in front of her, she only gasped, her hands flying to her face.
"Leolin Marie-Therese Anastasie Lefevre," he began, producing a naked ring from his pocket. "Will you marry me?"
Even McGonagall had stopped in her tracks as Leolin took in the sparkling diamond in Draco hand. Its design was rather simple, just an oval-cut diamond with a thin pavé band, but Merlin was it enormous, and it glittered magnificently in the light.
"Oh my gods," she blurted, an odd mixture of elation and trepidation washing over her.
This was the rest of her life. Was she ready to trust Draco with it? She wouldn't just be marrying him; she'd be marrying his past as much as his future. His darkness as much as his light. For an instant, she wasn't sure she was ready. However, when she looked down into his eyes, she suddenly she knew the answer.
"It would be my honour," she choked quietly, tears welling in her eyes.
He immediately slid the ring on her finger before rising and lifting her easily into his arms. She hooked her elbows across his shoulders as her feet left the ground, and she kissed him with vigour.
The were claps and cat-calls, but Leolin could barely here them. To her, Draco was the only person in the crowded room.
"I love you," she breathed, dazed by her joy.
"I love you, too," he said, kissing her again.
"I can't believe you got permission from my dad," she said.
"Surprised?" he asked, smirking.
"Stunned," she laughed happily, kissing him again.
By this time, her parents had made their way through the crowd to the couple, and Draco and Adrien shook hands before Leolin's parents embraced her.
As soon as they all disengaged McGonagall stepped forward, her face stern.
"Mr. Malfoy, as touching as I find all this," she gestured to Leolin in a manner which suggested she wasn't really touched at all. "I must insist—"
"Right, I know," Draco said, winking as Leolin. "I have to go. On my way, Headmistress."
He pulled Leolin close so he could whisper in her ear. "Come to The Em after. We have some celebrating to do."
"Mr. Malfoy!"
He turned to Leolin's parents, his expression more serious now.
"Adrien, Ariadne, thank you."
"Mr. Malfoy!"
"Headmistress," he said, turning back to McGonagall and giving her a mock bow. "It's been an pleasure."
With that he vanished into thin air, leaving a blushing Leolin behind. Well at least this explained why her parents were acting so strange.
"Alright," McGonagall said after Draco had disappeared. "Everyoe may disperse now, if you please."
Leolin couldn't help the smile that broke out on her face. It was just sinking in: she was engaged. She turned back to her mother and stepmother, who were beaming at her. She gave a delighted squeal.
"Aren't you sorry you did not get your nails done now?" Amelie asked, smiling.
Leolin laughed, tears of joy welling up again.
"I can't believe you knew! I—I can't believe you agreed."
Ariadne stroked her hair, her eyes serious now.
"Draco is determined to be the man you always said he was, and even though he'll never be worthy of you, we think he's at least worthy to try."
Leolin smiled.
"Thank you, Mum."
"Miss Lefrevre," McGonagall interrupted, after the crowd had dispersed a bit. Leolin turned, ready to apologize, when and McGonagall's face broke into a smile. "Congratulations, my dear."
Draco was growing antsy as he waited for Leolin to arrive. No doubt she was with still with her parents, but he was tired of waiting. He'd hardly set eyes on her for two seconds after she'd slipped the ring on, and he could barely contain his joy. The look of surprise on her face had been priceless. He leaned back in his leather seat, taking a sip of his scotch and kicking his feet up on the glass table in front of him. He was day-dreaming about what Leolin was going to look like in a wedding dress when Blaise arrived, shaking hands with Flint and Montague before reaching Draco and raising his eyebrows.
"You sly bastard," he said appreciatively. "Congratulations." They embraced, Draco smirking arrogantly.
"Hope you've brought something wicked to celebrate."
Blaise produced a bottle of expensive cognac. "Don't I always?" He drawled, setting the bottle down.
"So how big is the ring, then?" He said, cuffing Draco on the shoulder. "Astoria said Lefevre's lucky she didn't go blind."
Draco shrugged arrogantly. "You know me. I'm not really one to cut corners."
"You cheeky shit," Blaise said, pulling Draco into another hug. As he did, Draco caught a glimpse of a fetching red head trailing behind Blaise, and his look soured immediately.
"You brought Weasley?" He said in an exasperated tone before turning back to his friend. "Merlin, Blaise, you are bloody unbelievable," he said shaking his head and sitting down again.
He watched Blaise casually do the same, and though Draco didn't protest, his expression remained nasty.
"Nice to see you too, Malfoy," Ginny sniped, her hands on her hips as she sauntered farther in. He sneered at her, judging her from heels to silky hair.
She was wearing a bottle green dress that had a glimmering faux diamond collar sown in, and it the colour and the jewels set off her fiery hair. Even Draco had to admit she was very pretty. Not that he cared, of course, but the consequence of the green against her sleek red curls seemed to be affecting Blaise immensely, and this annoyed Draco further.
"Still your charming self I see," she said, drawing him from his internal assessment. She was seemingly undeterred by his barbs.
Draco ignored her, almost pretending as if she wasn't there.
"I can't believe you've brought her here," Draco said to Blaise, his tone a little nasty. A quiet murmur of ascent rippled through the Slytherins gathered. "You must have bollocks of steel."
"C'mon, Drake," Blair reasoned coolly, his eyes flicking to Ginny and furtively appraising her again. Draco watched his eyes rest for a second too long on her bum and sneered. "She's Leolin's best friend. She'll be pleased Weasley's here."
"Brought her for Leolin's sake, did you? You are so fucking transparent, mate." Draco turned to Ginny, a nasty look on his face. "Better watch your back, Weasley," he sneered. "And your drinks."
"Fuck off," she sneered. "I can take care of myself."
"Gods," he growled, growing more annoyed. "Shouldn't you be digging in some bin for extra sickles? You can't tell me Mummy and Daddy don't need the money," he asked derisively, taking a sip of his scotch.
This was his turf and he knew it; they both did. It made him even bolder and more cutting than usual, which was really saying something.
"Shouldn't you be planning the rise of the next Dark Lord?" she shot back, her cheeks still red from his cruel barb.
This brought Malfoy to his feet.
"Weasley, if you weren't a girl I would pummel you into the floor," He snapped, his lip curling in distain.
"What's stopping you?" she said, goading him by standing as well. "Don't tell me you never saw Daddy smack Mummy around a bit."
"Don't you dare talk about my family, you insolent little bitch. What you know about us wouldn't fill a bleeding teaspoon."
"I knew plenty about your family," she cried. The fight was starting to escalate and the tension was palpable. "Your father tried to have me killed. I wonder how many of your minions know about that! Did you tell them how he gave me Tom Riddle's diary and I almost died in the Chamber of Secrets?"
She looked around at the gathered group. Everyone looked sheepish and no one would meet her eye, not even Blaise. It was clear from their reaction that this was all new information.
"I was eleven, Malfoy. Eleven," she said in a quieter voice. She didn't have to speak loudly. She had everyone's attention, even Draco's. He was the only one who would meet her gaze, and he looked her squarely in the eye.
"I'm not my father," he hissed darkly. They were toe-to-toe now.
"Aren't you?"
"You cun—"
"What the colourful fuck is going on here?" Leolin cried. She'd just arrived, and the crowd easily parted for her. This was her day, after all.
Draco looked towards her and his gaze softened a bit, though his sneer didn't move. She looked sophisticated in a sleek black dress that hugged her like a second skin with a pair of sky-high heels. Draco tried not to stare, but her breasts looked magnificent.
"Weasley started it," he snapped, his mercurial eyes sliding back to Ginny.
She sneered at his accusation.
"What gives you the final say?" she bit out.
"I'll tell you," Draco said, re-igniting the fight. "This is my territory and these are my friends. There's no St. Potter to have your back now, so I'd watch my tongue if I were you. And for another thing, this is my engagement party, so I'll bloody do and say as I please. Don't like that, Weaselby? Jog. On."
Leolin inserted herself between the pair, frowning at both in turn.
"You know what? It's my engagement as well. Christ, can't you two go one day without fighting? It spoils everything!"
"Tell that to Weasley," Draco sneered.
"No, it's both of you! You're both equally guilty! You always insist on saying all these cruel things to each other, and in the end the only person who gets hurt is me! Ginny," she snapped, turning her back on Draco. "I love Draco and I am going to marry him! I know that this isn't easy for you and we've been on a long road, but please, try to understand. He is the bloody love of my life, and the day I marry him will be the happiest day of my entire existence. If you really can't accept that, then leave and please don't come back."
Draco was giving Ginny an imperious look that Leolin couldn't see, and she sneered up at him. Leolin wheeled around.
"And you," she snapped. The smirk quickly melted off Draco's face. "Ginny is my best friend! How you think it makes me feel when you slag her off? I do love you, but I swear on every god I've ever heard of, if you can't find it in you to at least be civil, I will take off this ring that will be the end of things permanently."
"You don't mean that," he said, his voice low and dark. Usually that tone scared her, but today she met his eye boldly. It was so tense that no one dared move.
"Try me, then," she hissed, deadly serious. "I dare you."
When Leolin had both of their attentions, she gave a dogged sigh. "Please, I'm not asking you to be best mates; I just want you to try to be civil. Really try."
Leolin looked between them. Ginny seemed torn, warring between her love for Leolin and her hatred for Draco. Draco looked downright furious, his eyes glittering like diamonds. He didn't move a muscle, saving for the ones he was clenching in his jaw.
"I'm sorry," Ginny said at last, bowing her head to look at her heels. "I know you aren't your father, and I know Leolin loves you; I think you love her, too."
"I do love her," Draco snapped.
"Then for it's for her sake that I'm laying down my arms. Truce."
She extended her hand, but Draco only looked at it and sneered. The tension seemed to have taken on an almost physical presence, and it hung low in the air like fog. Finally though, he glanced back at Leolin before turning to Ginny.
"I know there's a lot of bad blood between of families," he said at last. "But I've resigned myself to the fact that you are going to be godmother to my children, so I am willing to try, for their sake and for Leolin's."
His hand slid into Ginny's, and the tension broke like a wave on the beach. Leolin gave a sigh of relief.
"Thank you," she said, her voice warmer. "Neither of you knows what this means to me."
Ginny immediately retracted her hand, turning to smile at Leolin instead.
"I never said a proper congratulations!" she said, and Leolin beamed. Draco watched without saying a word. He wasn't smiling, but neither was he frowning.
"Thank you for being here," Leolin said pointedly. "I'm happy you came."
Ginny smiled, touching Leolin's cheek.
"I wouldn't miss this."
"Thank you," Leolin repeated, her eyes flicking to Draco now.
"C'mon, Weasley," Blaise said jerking his head in the direction of the bar. "I'll buy you a drink and properly introduce you around."
Ginny looked dubious, and Blaise rolled his eyes.
"Merlin, woman, you are so mistrustful. I won't lay a hand on you, I swear."
"I have a boyfriend," she said, not moving.
"Weasley, the whole world knows about you and Wood. Calm down and have one drink with your new mates."
Ginny gave a small smile, and Blaise returned it with a smirk of his own.
"That's a sport," he said, sliding his hands into his pockets and nodding his head towards the bar again. "C'mon."
She nodded and followed him, turning to give Leolin a silly face before disappearing into the crowd. Sensing what was coming next, everyone suddenly seemed to be doing their own thing and minding their own business. It was then that Leolin finally turned her full attention on Draco, and she gave him a harried look before it burst into a dazzling smile. He returned the gesture, cupping her face in his hands as her arms wrapped instinctively around his waist.
"Well, well, well, if it isn't the future Lady Malfoy," he laughed as she surged up to cover his mouth with hers. He returned the kiss with fervor, and his hands skated down her shoulders and arms and before finding her waist.
"You little shit," she hissed, still smiling. "I knew we wouldn't get through the night without my wanting to rip your fucking head off at least once."
"In that case, aren't you glad we got it out of the way? Now we can just enjoy ourselves." He smirked at her and raised his eyebrows.
She rolled her eyes and returned. "Promise me that you'll be much nicer to Ginny going forward."
"Don't push your luck, my darling."
"Then don't push yours. One more tiff with her and I swear I won't let you shag me until the wedding night."
His smirk widened. "You wouldn't do that to yourself," he said.
"Wouldn't I? Don't try me, Malfoy."
He bit his lip, eyes glittering hungrily. "I dunno why, but I love when you call me that. Maybe now it's because I know that soon you'll be a Malfoy as well."
Now it was her turn to seductively raise her eyebrows. "Leolin Marie-Therese Anastasie Malfoy. It is rather charming, isn't it?"
"Indeed," he said, his eyes flicking to her lips again before he bent to claim them.
She tangled her fingers in his hair, loving the feeling of his silky locks sliding across the band of her ring. They smiled at each other for a second before she pulled him down to kiss her again. It was a shameless display, but for once Leolin savoured the attention. Somehow (though Leolin had hardly imagined it was possible) that fact that Draco was now her fiancée made him that much more attractive, and she couldn't get enough of him.
"Is this what I can look forward to now that we've engaged?" He said, smirking. She pulled him down by the tie, nipping gently at his bottom lip before giving him a sinful smile as she strung her arms around his neck.
"Behave yourself and I'll blow your mind," she whispered, raising her eyebrows, and he bit his lip.
"I can't wait," he said, hands sliding from the small of her back to the curve of her bum. "In fact, I don't think I will. Come to the back. I want you out of that dress and up against the wall."
"Not so fast, chief," she purred, running a finger down his chest. "All good things to those who wait."
"Is that so?" He said, quirking an eyebrow.
"It's a proven fact," she murmured back.
He caught her by the wrist on her left hand as it traced lines on his chest, his thumb brushing the flat face of her diamond before flipping it over so he could press a sensuous kiss on her pulsepoint.
"I love you," he purred, and she smiled.
"Then why don't you give be a good boy and do as I ask?" she said, mocking him a little.
Draco gave resigned half-laugh. "It's going to take an act of Merlin to get Weasley to like me. Maybe I could raise her family out of abject destitution…" he trailed off, looking up as if in thought.
She punched him lightly in the arm and he laughed. "Be nice!" she said, still laughing.
"I'm trying!" Draco said, his smile widening as she punched him again. "You know I've never understood the lower classes! Give me a break."
"Draco Malfoy, you are bloody impossible," she said, raising her eyebrows.
"And just think," he said, kissing her again. "I'm yours for the rest of time. I'm the father of your children!"
"So you are," Leolin agreed. "I don't suppose I can convince you to raise them as normal kids like my mum raised me."
Draco gave a look of mock horror. "A middle-class Malfoy? Ugh, how repugnant. We got lucky with you, Cal," he said in an imperious tone. "Perhaps you were just always destined to be my wife."
"I think I was," she said, sobering up a bit. She looked into his eyes.
"In that case, welcome to the fold, Leolin Malfoy."
They kissed again, and Leolin melted into him.
"Speaking of Malfoys," she said, pressing her hand to his chest and watching as the diamond glittered brilliantly in the light. "I heard about your father and the election. Are you alright?"
Draco's expression didn't waiver. It had just been announced earlier that only Lucius and Dirk Cresswell remained in the running for Minister of Magic. The election itself was still nearly a year away, but this was bad news nonetheless. Cresswell was bleeding money and supporters, and Lucius had both in droves.
"I have the rest of my life to fret about my father and his schemes. Today the woman I love agreed to marry me; nothing could ruin today, not even my father."
"I love you," she said, squealing a little as he swept her off her feet and spun her.
"And don't I know it," he said, pecking her as he set her down.
"I should mingle," she said, looking around. "I haven't even see Pansy yet, and I can't wait to rub this diamond in Gracie's face."
"Go on, then," he said, tapping her playfully on the butt. "I'll find you later."
She raised her eyebrows as well, winking at him over her shoulder as she sauntered away. When she reached the bar, there were cheers and wolf whistles as Pansy reached forward, pulling Leolin's left hand to the centre so everyone could see it.
"Well, I've give him one thing," Pansy said, smirking as Leolin turned her hand left and right, letting the embarrassingly large rock glitter in the low light. "The man knows his diamonds."
"It's perfect," Astoria tittered. "Absolutely gorgeous. Come look, Gracie!"
Gracie, who had been shirking along the outside of the throng, looked bashful. It was clear she was trying to get a look while still avoiding Leolin. Leolin thrust her left hand forward instead, watching the stone gleam.
"Bigger or smaller than the one Zabini offered you?" Pansy smirked, and Gracie flushed. Now that they'd graduated, she had fallen quite a ways in the Slytherin pecking order, miles below Pansy and Nikki Clearwater.
Gracie gave a tight smile. "It's lovely," she said without fervour. Leolin gave her a cold smile.
"Thank you."
"So," a voice echoed. "The rumours are true," Nikki Clearwater was striding through, her blonde hair teased up and a ruby polish on her long nails. Her own engagement ring glinted in the light. Leolin smiled when she saw her. "He finally asked you, did he?" Nikki said, yanking Leolin's hand under her gaze. "Let me see."
"Finally asked me," Leolin laughed, showing Nikki the rock. "We've only just got back together over Christmas."
"Yes, but from what I hear, he would have asked you two years ago if he'd thought you said yes."
"Two years ago I was still dating Harry Potter."
"And yet here we are," Nikki smirked.
Leolin must have frowned, because Nikki's smirk widened in response, and she touched Leolin's arm playfully.
"Oh, don't be put out, darling. Malfoys always win in the end."
This comment agitated her a little. Leolin hoped that wasn't true, or Lucius Malfoy would rain down fire on all their heads.
"No worries, though," Nikki said as she light a cigarette. "You're a Malfoy now."
"You're going to be the richest woman in wizarding Britain!" Astoria squealed. "You'll throw glorious parties and everyone will adore you and be envious of you all at once. It will be marvelous."
"Here's hoping you handle that better than your predecessor." Pansy said, raising her glass of champagne and offering Leolin a flute. "To Narcissa Malfoy," she said. Someone gave a whistle, and the boys hooted and hollered.
"To Narcissa," Leolin laughed, taking a heady sip. It hadn't sunk in yet that Narcissa was going to be her mother-in-law, though it was admittedly a terrifying prospect.
"To the future Lady Malfoy," Draco said, cutting through and leaning down to kiss Leolin amongst more catcalls.
"To the future Lady Malfoy!" The group echoed. Pansy raised her glass and winked at Leolin.
"Here's to being obscenely rich and outrageously good-looking," Blaise said.
More cheers.
"Here's to being Slytherins, then," Pansy said, and everyone laughed and clinked glasses in amusement.
Ginny, Leolin noticed, did not drink to the last toast, and she looked rather annoyed. Draco saw it too, and they exchanged a look. Draco let go of Leolin's waist, wading through the emerald sea until he reached the bar. Drink still in hand, he climbed up precariously, skirting around glasses and dodging the low-hanging crystal chandeliers which hung every three feet or so. Leolin could see Jaime, who'd graduated from manning the door to tending bar, was alarmed, but this was Draco Malfoy: no one would've dared defy him, especially not today. When Draco got to the middle of the bar he stopped, smirking as he held casually to the chain of the nearest chandelier.
"Here's to Ginny Weasley," he said, his smirk widening as he held up his glass to her. He paused for the low whistles that followed. "To the unlikely possibility that she changes her mind and joins the good guys before it's too late."
Draco raised his eyebrows at Ginny as a Slytherin chant broke out. His eyes shone brighter that Leolin's obscenely large engagement ring.
"It's a hell of a party, Weasley," he goaded. "You wouldn't be disappointed."
He made brief eye contact with Blaise, who was standing a ways behind Ginny. Whatever look Blaise gave him only widened his glittering smirk. Still holding onto the chandelier for balance, Draco leaned down and held his flute out to Ginny, indicating she was meant to clink glasses. She studied it a moment before narrowing her eyes a bit.
"You're damn lucky it's your engagement party, Malfoy, or I'd knock you off the bar."
She raised her glass to his, and the crystal flutes sang as they touched. The crowd erupted in cheers, and Draco swung back up, crying, "To Ginny Weasley!"
"To Ginny Weasley," the Slytherin Sea echoed, and Ginny blushed.
Leolin gave her a wink. "Oddly enough," Leolin said in Ginny's ear. "That is not the first time Draco's raised a glass to you."
Ginny gave her an incredulous look. "You're having me on," she said.
Leolin shook her head. "Cross my heart and hope to die. Ask Blaise; hell, ask anyone here. I swear it's true."
"When?" Ginny said, still astonished.
"After you saved his wand from being snapped."
"I hate to admit it," Ginny said. "But after what he did I think for me I owed him one. Just don't expect me to raise my glass to him anytime soon."
"Really?" Leolin said in mock surprise. "Not even at my wedding? The maid of honour is supposed to give a speech, you know, and I think it's considered poor form if you don't give the groom a shout-out."
Ginny's face split into a smile and she laughed.
"You want me to be your maid of honour?"
Leolin laughed too. "Who else?"
They hugged before Ginny pulled away, arching an eyebrow.
"Does this mean Zabini is going to escort me down the aisle?"
"Merlin, but you're cynical! You honestly think I'd pick you in some desperate attempt to get you together with Blaise?"
"You are a Slytherin," Ginny pointed out.
Leolin smirked. "Slytherin alum, but I see your point."
"You know I can't stand Zabini."
"Or maybe you pretend to hate him because you secretly have a little crush on him," Leolin said, poking Ginny in the arm. "Admit it, Gin. He is handsome. Like, Greek god handsome."
"He's insufferable," Ginny snapped.
This only made Leolin mirthful.
"Go, say he isn't handsome, then," Leolin teased. "I want you to hear you say it: I don't find Blaise Zabini physically attractive."
"Just because someone is attractive doesn't mean you're attracted to them."
"Ginny Weasley, this is my engagement party and I demand that you say you don't think Zabini is fit."
"Fine!" Ginny exclaimed, her cheeks flushing. "Of course I think he's fit. How could I not? That doesn't mean I bloody fancy him."
"Fine," Leolin said, a satisfied smile creeping onto her face. "You don't fancy him, then. Consider the matter settled."
She could barely contain her growing mirth.
"I will never date him," Ginny said, making Leolin smirk even wider.
"Can I get that in writing?" Leolin said, and Ginny rolled her eyes.
Just then Draco swept up from behind them, kissing Leolin on the neck before regarding Ginny with an amused, albeit mocking, look.
"Having fun, Weasley?"
"Time of my life," she shot back sarcastically. However, Leolin gave her a look. "Thanks for the toast," Ginny said at last, though her salutation was thinly veiled.
He smirked the way he always did when he was harassing the Gryffindors. He'd been wearing that expression in their presence since he first met Harry eight years ago.
"Anytime, love. By the way, if you are looking to take my advice, I'm sure Blaise would be more than happy to oblige. Who knows? Maybe even tonight. The Em's got plenty of dark corners. Just make sure you don't wait to long; when a bloke's in his cups, things can get a bit—you know—tricky."
He gave another nasty little smile.
"Sod off," She said, trying to be as pleasant as possible. For the record, it wasn't particularly pleasant. However, when she spoke again her voice was sweeter, almost saccharine. "You know perfectly well I have a boyfriend, Draco," she said in an almost sing-song voice.
"Well, Ginevra," he retorted in the same sing-song tone, raising his eyebrows as he smirked again. "Just because there's a keeper, doesn't mean the chaser can't sco—"
Leolin put a hand over his mouth, hoping to stop him before he touched off Ginny's anger again. In truth, Draco had been right: Leolin did not want to stop shagging him. On the other hand, she planned to start sticking to her guns, so if he did start something with Ginny, she'd have no choice but to do as she'd threatened.
"Forgive Draco," Leolin said, her hand still clamped over his mouth. He was thoroughly amused, and she could feel his lips moving as he tried to talk over the muffler. "He's terribly drunk; so drunk, in fact, that he'll be lucky if things aren't tricky for him later. Isn't that right, darling?"
This sobered him up a bit. Finally Leolin let go, and Draco's eyes gleamed as he looked down at Ginny. "Have a nice night, Weasley; Cal and I are going to go practice making babies."
"Draco!" Leolin cried, but Ginny shook her head and pretended to plug her ears.
"Use protection!" she mock-shouted as Draco dragged Leolin away. "I'm not ready to be a godmum just yet."
"Duly noted," Draco called, his eyes already hungry.
Leolin laughed. Merlin, she wanted him.
"You're going to play for that little comment, you saucy wench," he said once they'd cleared the crowd. "Why don't I prove to you how wrong you are?" he said, nudging her down the hall just off the bathrooms.
He pushed her up against the wall before ravaging her mouth. She gave a laughing protest against his insistent lips.
"Draco! Anyone could walk by and see us," she said as he started kissing her neck.
"So what?" Draco said, his hand already between her legs. "Let them look. Maybe they'll learn a thing or two."
"Draco—oh ," she said, collapsing slightly against his shoulder as he worked his magic.
Getting tired of worked around her knickers, he simply tore them off, and Leolin groaned.
"Those were expensive," she whined, her breathing heavy as his fingers moved more freely.
"Leolin, I'm one of the richest blokes in Wizarding Europe. I'll buy you another pair."
"You better," she said, brushing a hand down his chest before rubbing suggestively against him. She felt his body react at once.
"I'll buy you a thousand more," he breathed, "Just don't stop."
At this point, stopping was no longer an option, Draco grabbed her hand, urging her into an empty VIP lounge as he continued to kiss her fiercely. She could feel from the way he was pressing up against her that he was more than ready for her. He sank onto on of the couches, pulling her with him. In less than a minute he'd managed to undo his trousers, and he groaned as he sunk into her.
"I've missed this," he breathed, his movements slow as he tugged down her dress and his palms found her bare breasts.
"It's only been four months," Leolin said, rocking her hips back and forth, allowing him to pull the dress down further, exposing more of her flushed skin.
"It might as well have been an eternity," He breathed, kissing her neck. "Besides, this is the first time I'm having sex with my fiancée. It's a thousand times hotter."
Leolin drove her hands into his hair as he increased his speed.
"Agreed," she panted.
She was close, so close, and Draco knew it. He stood with her still in his arms, and he held her up as she continued falling on him repeatedly.
"You can scream, if you want," he breathed against her neck. "It will be just like old times.
"No," she said, biting her lip and trying to keep her eyes from watering. "Not here."
"Later, then," he said, and as he did she died a small death.
Her knees went weak and he wrapped an arm around her waist to keep her steady.
"I've got you," He breathed, and she held his shoulders for support.
By this time he was also close, and she hitched a leg around his waist to give him deeper entry. Taking advantage, he pushed forward until she was gloriously full, and it was here he found release.
"Merlin, I love you," he breathed into her neck as she unwound her leg and sank to the ground.
"You know that doesn't count when you say it just after sex," she teased, heart still beating fast.
There was a thin sheen of sweat on Draco's forehead, and combined with his mussed hair and flushed cheeks, she was almost ready to have him again. Something about seeing him undone and knowing she was the cause pleased her immensely.
"Let me rephrase, then," He said, reaching down and dragging her hand in her face so she could look at her own engagement ring. Even in the near darkness it seemed to glow. She brought her outstretched left hand to his cheek and kissed him.
"I love you," he repeated. "And you were made to be mine," he touched his forehead to hers.
"And what about you? Are you mine?" she asked, tracing the face of the falcon medallion she'd given him, which hung around his neck.
"You know I am," he said seriously.
"Good, then while I'm basking in your glowing adoration, I should tell you that we're having dinner with my family tomorrow to celebrate. My whole family."
"Merlin," he breathed, half annoyed. "How long have you been waiting to spring that trap? Clever of you to wait until you had me all bothered. You knew I wouldn't be able to deny you a thing in the world after a shag like that."
"Good to know that my sexual prowess has greater weight than your love for me," she said, a little irritated. "But let me please remind you that you're marrying into my family as much as I'm marrying into yours. You'll to have to learn to coexist with them. You haven't even met my nain yet, and believe me, she's going to be less than thrilled when she sees you."
"Oy," Draco said defensively. "Your dad and I are mates now…sort of. Got him to agree to marry you, didn't I?"
"Yeah, I've been meaning to ask you. How did you manage that?"
"The day after you left for Hogwarts," he said, tracing soft circles across the swell of her chest. "I went to see him at his officeto ask for your hand. Naturally he tried to throw me out, but I told him that I loved you, really loved you, and that I would do anything to prove that I meant it. He just told me to make an appointment for the following day before shutting the door on me."
"You agreed to a session with my dad?" Leolin demanded, incredulous.
Draco nodded. Despite her father's vast family fortune, Adrien had chosen to become a psychologist. He'd had a very successful private practice in Paris before he and Amelie moved, and since that time he'd opened another in London. Leolin tried to imagine Draco lying on her father's leather couch, spilling all his childhood fears. She couldn't.
"So what happened?" Leolin prompted.
"Well, I showed up the next day and he literally made me start at the beginning. You know, the stereotypical 'tell me about your parents' sort of thing. I was really tempted to just walk out, but I knew if I did he'd never let me come back. He didn't say much, only listened and asked a billion questions. After that, I asked if I could marry you and he said no, but that I should come back again the following day. So I started coming every morning, and he dug deeper and deeper. Asking about things I hadn't ever told anyone about. Merlin, things I'd never even acknowledged out loud. Every few weeks I would ask if I could marry you and he would say no. Then finally one day I asked and he said yes."
"When was that?"
He smiled.
"Three days ago. That's why I wasn't at the graduation ceremony; I'd planned to propose there, but I was still getting the ruddy ring crafted," he said, taking her hand again. "It's goblin-made, and believe me, they aren't ones to be rushed."
"Why did you wait?" She laughed. "I sort of assumed you picked out a ring a while ago."
He smiled.
"I did, but I got rid of it. I wanted this to be a clean slate; I didn't want anything from our past to muddy that. And good thing I didn't," he said. "Because I think that was your father's last test. Right before he gave his permission, he asked me if I already had a ring. It was only after I said that I didn't that he agreed."
"But how did you know that he'd ask that?" she insisted.
He looked down at her hands, at her perfect, dazzling, obscenely-large, goblin-made ring before smiling again and touching her cheek.
"I didn't. But I knew how much his approval meant to you, and I promised myself that as hard as it was, I wouldn't marry you until he agreed. Before that, I had to assume that I might not be allowed to marry you until we were fourty. That meant not buying a ring. It meant not making any preparations until it was real."
"Draco Malfoy," she breathed. "You are a despicable, arrogant creature, but you are also the greatest man I've ever known. I love you."
"You too," he said, brushing her chin with his thumb. "Remember that tomorrow night."
"I will," she promised. "I promise I have your back no matter what happens. It's you and me against the world now."
"You and me," he repeated. "That's all I've ever needed."
The following evening, Leolin sat at her vanity shaking like a leaf, consulting the clock on her wall every five seconds. It still read on time, but every minute it crept closer to late. She'd gone to lunch in Diagon Alley with Draco earlier today and he'd tried to assure her it was going to be fine, but she could tell that even he was uneasy.
She checked the clock again. Five fifty one.
Draco promised her would leave work no later than four thirty. His last message came at four forty five.
Just leaving the office now. I'll be there at six, I promise.
Leolin chewed her lip and looked at the clock again. It was five fifty two now.
"Better get a move on, Missy," it chirped at her as it inched towards six.
"Stow it," she said, drumming her fingers anxiously against the vanity. Five fifty three.
"Leolin," her mother called through the door. "Coming down soon? Your grand-mere and granny will be here soon. You'll need to be down there when they do, preferably with Draco."
"Right, okay, I'm coming," Leolin called.
When her mother's footsteps had faded, she glanced at the clock.
"If you're on time you're late. Go on," the clock said in a sing-song voice.
Leolin growled at it before standing. She made for the door, but as she did she heard a soft tapping at her window. Oh Merlin, that wasn't Draco, was it? Surely he realized he had to come through the front door like a proper gentleman. She went to the window and threw it open to find a handsome hawk owl regarding her curiously.
"Who are you?" she asked, and it gave a soft hoot before circling the room. He had two a small parcel that he deposited on her writing desk before he came to land gently on her arm. Archie hooted unhappily, but the hawk owl ignored him, closing his eyes as Leolin stroked his soft feathers. Finally, he alighted again out the window, and Leolin went to fetch the package.
There was a scroll she picked up first, and she smiled as she broke the Malfoy seal and read in Draco's perfect script:
I got rid of Caelus, I know you weren't very fond of him. See you in about sixty seconds.
xx
There was also a note attached the package, which she tore open.
To my Snake Charmer from your Charming Snake: so you know I'm not the man I used to be.
When she opened the box, she literally couldn't contain her gasp of surprise. There, nestled against a blanket of black silk, were the two severed halves of Draco's Merovingian wand, the wand she'd been unable to snap.
She reached out to touch one of the halves, noting that the power it had once known had long since died. She fell an incredible swell of emotion crest in her throat, and she closed her eyes to keep from messing up her eye makeup by crying.
"Leolin," her mother called for downstairs. "Your fiancée is here."
"Coming!" she squealed, leaping up and bounding out the door.
When she reached the top of the stairs she looked down at Draco waiting in the foyer, and she smiled at him. He rewarded her with the kind of smile even she didn't get to see every day. He was dressed sharply in a black tux with a bow-tie, and the formality of it suited him greatly.
"Hello," she said as she came down into his waiting arms, turning her cheek so he could kiss it. Her mother was still watching, after all. Draco was undeterred, though. His touch was incredibly sensuous, and he dragged his silky lips across her cheek suggestively as they drew together to form the kiss. She tried not to blush; hopefully her mother hadn't seen that.
"I'll give you a minute," her mother said, regarding Draco "But be quick, Leolin. Everyone is waiting."
"Alright, we'll be right there," she said.
The minute her mother was gone Draco's hold on her tightened, and he found her lips in an instant.
"Nice necklace," he said as she pulled away and admiring the snake pendant she wore around her neck. It had understandably always been one of Draco's favourites. He traced the snake's undulating body with his finger, smirking as he watched its tail disappear between her slightly pushed up breasts. However, Leolin's mind was elsewhere.
"Well," she said expectantly, "Let's see it, then."
"What, here?" he said in mock surprise, smirking. "Don't be so salacious, Callie! You've seen it a million times, and I promise you'll see it plenty tonight."
"Don't be crude," she said, punching him lightly in the shoulder. "I mean your wand."
"Oh, that," he said, eyes glittering. "Of course."
He pulled a sleek acacia wand from his pocket and handed it to her. It seemed old as well. Perhaps not as ancient as his last one, and she guessed it had been forged at least a century ago.
"Where did you get it?" she asked in awe, turning it over in her hands. It was exceedingly handsome.
"In Italy."
She wrinkled her nose, which made him laugh.
"Relax, I got it long after I broke up with Severina," he said.
"Why did you have to go all the way to Italy for a wand?"
"Because that's where the wand-maker's shop is," he said as if it were obvious.
"I puzzled that bit out for myself, funny enough," she said. "I mean what wand-maker is so important that you had go to Italy?"
"It's one of Leonardo's," he said, pride etching his tone.
"Leonardo Da Vinci?" She said, looking at it again.
"The very same."
"So this wand's inherited too, then. That is to say, someone had it before you."
"No, that's the beauty of it," he said as she handed it back to him. "Leonardo was a bit zealous about his wands and he only sold about a hundred during his life. His shop's still full of wands no one ever touched. Loads of people come every year but it's somewhat rare that a wand chooses anyone."
"Well aren't you special," she said.
"As a matter of fact," he said, smirking at her. "Despite what everyone seems to think, I'm more than good lucks and galleons. I'm also rather brilliant."
"And modest," she said, leaning into him again. "Don't forget modest."
"Humility is so woefully middle class," he said. "I'm young, fit, rich, clever, and I'm marrying the smartest, most beautiful witch that ever lived. What the fuck have I got to be humble about?"
She laughed. "Nothing, I suppose."
"Exactly," he said, raising his eyebrows. She grabbed his neck and his lips crashed to hers.
"Isn't this lovely," a voice sneered.
Leolin turned and frowned as Cristian sauntered closer. "Oh, it's you."
"Oui, c'est moi, lapin," he said, those his eyes were on Draco. "Welcome back, Malfoy."
Leolin could feel the powerful muscles in Draco's arms coiling slowly like a viper ready to strike.
"And how long are you planning on staying this time? I hope you at least make it to the main course, the duck really is exquis."
Draco gave a glittering crocodile smile, letting go of Leolin so he could slide closer to Cristian.
"That's the thing, mate. I'm here forever. I'm marrying into this family. When Leolin and I have children, I will be related by blood. If only you could say as much. What was it that Leolin said you were? The son of an ex-wife's from a previous marriage? Seems a rather tenuous connection to me. I only hope you can find a way to remain in Adrien's favour after I tell him what you've been up to."
Cristian said nothing, only sneered, and Draco's smile widened in return. He leaned closer so they were nose to nose.
"Checkmate."
Now it was Cristian who seemed ready to fight, and Leolin tugged Draco away before Cristian had any opportunities.
Draco yielded easily to her touch, raising his eyebrows at Cristian before slinging an arm around Leolin and sauntering into the lounge.
Leolin pressed a hand to his chest, looking up at him as they entered. "Draco Malfoy, what a quick tongue you have."
He leaned down so his soft lips brushed the shell of her ear. "And don't you forget it."
She gave a pretty blush just as they rounded the corner to face the smattering of assembled guests.
"Leolin!" Amelie said at once, coming to kiss each cheek. "You are positively glowing."
"Am I? Leolin said, touching her cheeks.
"You are," Draco agreed, and Amelie turned to him.
"Ravi de vous revoir, Draco," she said, brushing a kiss on each of his cheeks. "Congratulations!"
He smiled. "Lovely to see you as well. And thank you. For everything."
His eyes flicked over her shoulder to Leolin's father, who was advancing now, too.
"Adrien," Draco said, extending his hand.
"Draco," Adrien said, and much to Leolin's surprise, her father shook it warmly. It was perhaps too much to say that the exchange was friendly, but she detected a distinct respect flowing before them.
"Leolin," he father said, smiling at her. "Congratulations again. Your stepmother and I are so happy you're happy."
"I am," Leolin affirmed, looking up at Draco. "I can't even say how much. My heart's too full. Thank you, Papa."
"Thank Draco," Adrien said evenly. "He's the one who convinced me. If I had my way, lapin, you would never grow up."
Leolin looked warmly up at Draco, and unable to resist, Draco dipped his head to kiss her softly.
Adrien and Amelie exchanged a look, and she winked at him. He smiled in return.
"I'm going to fetch another drink," Adrien said, cuffing Draco on the shoulder. "I'm sure I will talk to you two later."
He pecked Amelie because giving Leolin another wink and heading off.
"So," Amelie said. "When will the wedding be? Oh Leolin, I can't wait to design the gown. We will have to talk about shapes."
Leolin's eyes sparkled.
"I have so many ideas," Leolin said, a little giddy. "Seriously, you're going to have to reign me in."
Amelie laughed.
"Non," she said delightedly. "We are going to pull out all the stops. People will be taking about the dress after we're all dead."
"It's not just the dress," Leolin admitted. "I mean the whole wedding."
She looked up at Draco, who smiled.
"You're a Malfoy bride," he said. "You can have whatever you want."
"You're both going to regret giving me cart blanche," Leolin warned.
Amelie was about to respond, but just then there was a loud babbling, and Max tottered up on chubby legs, pulling at Amelie's skirt as the nanny chased after him.
"Quoi, bébé? " Amelie said in an exasperated tone, scooping him up. "Que voulez-vous, huh?" She asked, touching his chubby cheeks. "Qu'est-ce que vous voulez?"
"I'll take him," Leolin said, extending her arms. Max happily transferred to her arms, just pleased he was being held.
Amelie touched his soft hair, smiling at him before looking between Leolin and Draco.
"Don't you two dare get pregnant until you are older," she warned. "Babies are more work than you can possibly imagine."
"But look at that face," Leolin cooed as Max chewed on his fingers.
"Oui, he is adorable now. See how cute you find him when he is up screaming at three o-clock in the morning."
Leolin only laughed and Amelie shook her head good-naturedly.
"Trust me," she said, touching Draco's arm and lowering her voice as if what she was about to share was a secret. "Your early twenties are for going to all-night parties and for sleeping naked in front of the fireplace. You have your whole lives to have a baby."
She winked at Leolin before turning away. "Come find me if you get tired of holding him," she said."
"I could never get tired of holding him," Leolin called, and Amelie laughed.
"He is cute," Draco admitted, touching Max's cherubic cheek.
"What do you think our children are going to look like?" Leolin asked. "I have a sneaking suspicion they're all going to be blonde."
"Maybe they'll have your eyes," he said, looking at her. "I hope they have your eyes."
"First child: boy or girl?" Leolin asked.
Draco made a face. "Oh, boy. Definitely a boy."
"I knew you were going to say that," she said.
He laughed.
"I wouldn't mind having a girl eventually," he said. "Maybe the fourth."
"Fourth?" Leolin laughed. "You want four kids?"
He smiled.
"I want at least four kids. C'mon, we're both only children. Don't you want a big family?"
"I'm not an only child!" Leolin said indignantly. "I have Max."
Draco raised his eyebrows. "Somehow I feel like that doesn't count."
"We can negotiate later," Leolin said, shifting Max. "But yes, I do want a big family."
He leant down to brush his lips chastely against hers.
"Leolin, your grand-mere is here," Ariadne said. "Give me the baby and go say hello. I don't want to give her any ideas of great-grandchildren."
Leolin handed a contented Max to her mother before taking Draco's hand.
"Salut, Grand-mere," she said when she was close enough, kissing her grandmother. ". You remember Draco, don't you?"
"But of course, lapin," she said, eying him with approval. This didn't bode well for Draco's inevitable meeting with her grandmamma Sian. "Welcome back, monsieur. I 'ope you don't plan to destroy any more of my antique furniture zeez time."
"Thank you for having me," he said politely. "And ah—no, I don't. I assure you that was a one-time mistake."
"Good," Marie said. "I only 'ave twelve of zose chairs, and I would 'ate to 'ave to get a new set."
Draco and Leolin exchanged a look.
"My apologies," Draco said. "That was ungentlemanly of me."
"Non," Marie said stiffly. "It eez my family who should apologize to you. I am ashamed at zee way we be'aved. I should not 'ave allowed such barbarie in my 'ouse."
"Thank you," Draco said solemnly. "Vous ne savez pas ce que cela signifie pour moi."
She nodded, giving him a small smile.
"Well," her grand-mere said. "Où est-il? Let me see zees ring, zen. "
Leolin extended her hand, and her grandmother examined it, turning the hand left and right so the ring glittered magnificently.
"Now, zat ees a diamond," she say approvingly. "Much better suited zan that chip your cousine gave Charlotte."
"Grand-mére, be nice," Leolin said.
"Leolin" she said seriously. "If you get pregnant before zis wedding, don't even bozzer inviting me. I'm not going to watch anozzer full-bellied bride waddling down zee aisle."
Draco looked at Leolin quizzically and she rolled her eyes.
"Blair's wife Charlie was pregnant when they got married. Really pregnant, like eight months." She turned back to her grand-mere. "I heard it was a lovely ceremony, Grand-mere; don't be so unkind."
"Charlotte eez too belle une femme to be reduced to a pregnant bride. Zat is for poor girls who can't afford ze potion."
"Oh Merlin," Leolin groaned.
"I am serious, lapin," Marie warned. "Don't you dare get pregnant until after zeez wedding. Zere 'ave been enough babies born out of zee marriage bed in zis family. You two wait until you are married to start making children."
Leolin bit her lip, blushing.
"Alright," she said. "We will."
"Merci. Well, I am going to 'ave a drink. Leolin, être bon, je vais parler avec vous plus tard. "
"Yes, speak to you after," Leolin agreed, waving her off. "Merlin, but that women is a nightmare," she huffed when Marie was gone.
"I rather like her," Draco said smiling as he watched her go.
"You're just saying that because she's perhaps the only person more elitist than you."
He smirked. "Like attracts like," he said.
"Leolin! There you are! Congratulations!"
Leolin looked up and beamed.
"Charlie," Leolin cried, dragging Draco behind her as she rushed to embrace Charlie. " I'm so happy you're here! Where's Blair? And Sloan!"
"Blair's trying to put her down upstairs. Promise me you'll wait to have a baby, Lai. They're constant work."
"Trust me, we've already been sternly warned."
Charlie smiled.
"Well then I won't belabour the point. Congratulations!" Charlie said, hugging Leolin again. "And you must be Draco," Charlie said, extending a hand to Draco. "Congratulations to you as well."
She didn't really have it in her to be impolite, but her tone was a lot less friendly than it had been.
"I am," Draco said, shaking it. "And thank you."
"It's nice to meet you," Charlie said evenly.
"The pleasure's all mine," Draco replied in a similar tone.
"Blair and Leolin have told me so much about you," she said.
"I can't imagine what Blair would have to say," Draco replied. "He hardly knows me."
"Well, now you're family," Charlie said, smiling at Leolin before looking back at Draco again. "Perhaps you two will grow closer."
"Perhaps," Draco said, smiling a somewhat fake smile.
It seemed like Charlie wanted to say more, but just then Amelie started clinking her glass as a Benton, the butler, along with two footman, circled the room passing out champagne.
"To Leolin and Draco," she said, raising her glass. "May they be happy in their many years together."
"To Leolin and Draco," everyone repeated, and Leolin touched her glass to Draco's before he dipped to kiss her.
At first she was unsure what to do, but then she remembered he was her fiancée now and she could do as she pleased. She brought a hand to his chest so everyone could see her ring before pecking him on the lips.
He smiled beautifully down at her before turning his glittering eyes to her parents and raising his glass, first to her father and stepmother and finally to Ariadne. She nodded and returned the gesture, and odd mix of pain and happiness in her eyes.
Shortly after the dinner gong rang, and Leolin took Draco's hand.
"What about your Welsh gran," Draco asked as they made their way into dinner. "Don't tell me after all this she isn't coming!"
"Oh no," she said as she took her seat. "She is. She just loves to make an entra—"
"Hello all!" Sian said as she swept into the dining room. "Have I missed anything important. Please tell me that Leolin's intended hasn't stormed off yet."
Leolin's cheeks flamed the colour of her grandmother's customary scarlet dress. Sian's eyes scanned the room, and when she found Leolin she smiled.
"Lovely, Granny," Leolin said tersely. "Thank you for that."
"Can't blame me for asking, darling. Amelie, I do hope you switched out the dining room chairs this evening."
"That's enough, Mum," Ariadne warned, but Sian ignored her, still looking at Leolin instead.
"Well, don't I even get a hello and a proper introduction?" She demanded, still smiling.
"Yes, hello," Leolin said, hugging her grandmother. "Nain," Leolin said after they'd let go. "This is Draco, my fiancée."
He said nothing, only politely extending a hand to her. She slipped hers into his and he kissed it dutifully.
"It's a pleasure, Mrs. Madoc," Draco said.
"We're certainly going to find out, won't we?" Sian said, allowing Benton to accompany her to a seat across the table from Draco and Leolin. "Merlin," she said as she was seated. "But you do so look like your father when he was your age."
Her sharp eyes glinted as she regarded Draco. He met her gaze boldly, fighting admirably to remain polite. He admittedly seemed more at ease than he had at Christmas, but maybe that was because now he had Adrien and Marie firmly in his corner.
"I'm told my father was considered to be a very handsome man," he said. "So I think I'll take that as a compliment," he said, his voice somewhat flat.
"Well you can take it however you like, my dear. That's your prerogative."
"Mother," Ariadne said through her teeth. "That's quite enough. I think you're embarrassing Leolin."
"Am I? Forgive me, child, I was only trying to make conversation."
Leolin said nothing, just stroked Draco's thigh under the table to reassure him.
"Do not worry, Draco, she eez zis rude to nearly everyone she meets," Marie-Therese said, smiling coldly at Sian.
"Funny you should think so, Marie, since you were less than cordial to the last boy who Leolin brought home. Kelly, was it? I actually quite liked him."
Cristian smirked into his glass of wine, and Leolin gave him a nasty look. Other than that, no one said anything.
"What ever happened to him, Leolin?" Sian said pointedly.
Leolin clenched her jaw.
"You know damn well what happened to him, Granny. Please stop torturing me."
"Language, Leolin," Adrien said.
"Damn's not a swear word. It's used in the Muggle bible," Leolin pointed out.
"Yes well, we're not Muggles, so please refrain from using it at my dinner table," Adrien said purposefully.
"Oh let her swear a little if se wants to," Sian interjected. "But Leolin darling, I never did hear what you said happened with you and Kelly."
"That's enough, I think," Adrien said. "Draco is our guest, Sian, and he's my future son-in-law. Perhaps we might be a touch more polite."
Sian shrugged noncommittally as a server came by a poured wine in her glass.
"So Leolin," she said after she'd taken a sip. "When is the wedding?"
Leolin glanced at Draco. "Next year sometime, probably in the summer or fall. We're not quite sure yet. We've only just gotten engaged."
She and Draco had agreed at lunch that day that there was no rush.
"That's somewhat of a long engagement, don't you think?" Sian said.
"Not at all, Mum," Ariadne said pointedly. "It's rather normal. Besides, Leolin, tell your grandmother what you're doing now that school is over."
"I've got a temporary job in Paris studying Muggle paintings by wizard artists."
"Sorry," Cristian said snidely, smiling at her. "I don't think I understand. You're going to work with Muggles? How do you feel about that, Draco?"
Draco, to his credit, said nothing, but Leolin could feel the sleek muscles in his thigh tensing. He took a heady sip of wine instead.
"Not at all," Leolin said. "Loads of artists made Muggle painters for Muggle patrons. Leonardo, Michelangelo, Jacques Louis David, you name it."
"But all those men are wizards," Amelie said. "Why would they make painting for Muggles? "
"That's why I'm going to Paris," Leolin said, smiling at Draco. "To find out."
"It sounds wicked," Blair said, skirting around the footman serving salads as he entered. "Good for you, Bug."
"Blair!" she called delightedly, hugging him as she he joined her and Draco on their side of the table.
"Congratulations," Blair said, kissing her temple. "You too, Malfoy," he said, shaking Draco's hand. "Make sure you treat her right."
Draco nodded.
"I will."
"How is the baby?" Charlie asked, pecking him as he sank beside her.
"Sleeping, thank Merlin," Blair sighed. "My god does she have lungs."
"She gets zeez from ze Lefevre side," Marie said, smiling.
Blair smiled back. Sloan had seemed to have mended the rift between them.
"Maybe you're right," he laughed. "Anyways, what did I miss?"
"Leolin's was just getting ready to tell everyone that she is going on full scholarship," Ariadne said proudly.
"Mum!"
"Well, that's very impressive, sweetheart."
"I agree," Draco said as he smiled at her. "We're very proud."
"And what about you, Mr. Malfoy?" Sian said. "Are you going with her to Paris?"
"Draco, please," he grit out as nicely as possible. "And no, I'm not. My place is here with my father's company. I'm managing it for him while he's running for office."
Leolin watched the muscles in his jaw flexing. She knew it killed him to say that.
"How honourable of you," Sian said seriously.
Draco's tightened his powerful quads instead of replying.
"My family needs me," he said quietly after a second, taking a sip of wine.
"And what about Leolin? Does she not need you?"
"Granny!" Leolin hissed. "I don't need a babysitter in Paris. Draco and I have discussed it this is what we've decided. Together."
Sian was not to be deterred. "What is that you do, exactly?" She said to Draco, narrowing her eyes.
He fought to urge to sneer. "It's terribly complex, I'm afraid."
"Try and use small words then."
"We have holding and investments in a number of fields, and I maintain and protect those investments."
"I see. So a lot of wining, dining, bribing, and butchering, then."
"I'm sorry," said Draco quietly. "Are you accusing me of something? If you are, you don't have to stop there. Please, tell me what I've done." His tone was just the slightest bit nasty.
"I don't think any accusation is necessary," Sian said tersely, though she was still smiling.
"Forgive me," he bit out. "I don't think I understand what you mean."
"No, I'm sure you don't."
"Sian," Adrien said sternly. "I'm afraid I'm going to have to ask you to treat Draco with a little more respect."
Incensed at being chided, Sian looked back at Draco.
"That's what you think you're due, is it?" Sian sneered
"Mum!" Ariadne cried indignantly as Leolin looked at her, pleading for her to intervene. "That is seriously enough. Please knock it off."
"I'm not sure what is it about me that you find so repugnant," Draco said in response. "You've only known me for about ten minutes."
"Oh, I think you know why I don't approve," Sian said bluntly, and Draco had the courage to roll his eyes.
"I might have known," he said dryly. "In that case, forgive me. I don't wish it give offense."
Sian put down her fork altogether. Ariadne tried to intercede, as did Amelie, but Sian ignored their protestations.
"Did you think you were just going to waltz in here and win us over just because you're richer than Nicholas Flamel? This family is money as old as yours, I assure you." She said coldly.
"Jesus Muggle Christ, Mum!" Ariadne said, beginning to lose her cool. "Let it go, will you?"
Sian ignored her.
"Perhaps you are unaware, Mr. Malfoy, the havoc your father has already wreaked on my family."
This caused a bit of a stir. Tonight felt like it was gearing up to be Act II of the spectacular fuckery that had been Christmas.
"On the contrary," Draco said. "I'm perfectly aware." His decorous façade was slipping. His response caused another ripple, and Ariadne and Adrien exchanged a look. "Though I admit I don't understand what that has to do with my marriage to Leolin," he continued. "I love her."
"I believe rather you that love the reflection of yourself that you see in her," Sian said, the colour rising in her cheeks. "After all, she young and beautiful and pure-blooded just like yourself. You think she's a perfect bride for a man like you. You're wrong if you're assuming that you can bend her into some kept pet like your mother."
"Leave ze boy alone, Sian. Zis ees none of your beezness," Marie-Therese warned, but even she was no match for Sian today.
"Are you suggesting that I'm coercing Leolin in some way?" Draco asked, a hint of derision in his tone. "I assure you that I'm not. Ask her yourself."
"Nain, let's please talk about something else."
"Quiet, Leolin," she snapped, and Draco's brow furrowed as his gaze sharpened.
"Don't speak to her that way," he said quietly, his voice colourless.
"You act as if she's your property to protect."
"She is mine to protect. I love her, and she's going to be my wife."
"We'll just see about that, Mr. Malfoy."
"Alright," Leolin said, calmly setting down her napkin and standing. "We're done here."
"Excuse me?" Sian said.
"Draco and I are leaving," Leolin said in the same even tone. "Thank you for dinner, Pappa."
"Lapin," Amelie began sympathetically. "Please don't leave. Tonight is for you. To celebrate your engagement."
"I know," Leolin said evenly. "Exactly. That's why we aren't staying. Come on, Drake."
"Leolin," her mother said. "You don't have to storm out. I'm sure your grandmother is sorry. Aren't you, Mum?"
"No one is storming out," Leolin said. "But I promised Draco tonight wouldn't be another interrogation, and now that I've broken that promise, I'm not going to force him to stay and take any more cheap shots. It's not fair to him."
"Leolin," Sian said in a clipped tone, "Don't be a fool. I'll not see another of my girls torn apart by salacious Malfoy greed."
"Nain," Leolin said tiredly. "I love Draco. You will never change my mind on that. If our marriage offends you, feel free not to attend the wedding. If you change your mind, you owe Draco and apology first."
"You would choose this boy over you family?"
"Sian—" Blair said in Leolin's defense, but Leolin waved him off.
"I'm not," Leolin said. "I'm not choosing anyone. If you want to draw lines in the sand, go ahead. Just now that if you never see your great grandchildren, it will be because that's what you chose."
She took Draco's hand before looking at her parents, disappointment in her eyes.
"I really thought tonight was going to be different," she said.
"Me too," her mother said sadly. "You should be ashamed of yourself, Mum."
Sian huffed and Leolin nodded with finality, leaning into Draco for support. His arm came protectively around her at once. He'd remained silent throughout the exchange, but finally he spoke.
"We're heading to the flat in Paris," Draco said at last, looking at Ariadne. He must have known that Leolin was planning on disappearing and making her parents sweat. "We'll floo when we get there. Come on, Callie."
"Leolin—" Ariadne began mournfully, but Leolin had already brought down the apparition wards, and she had Draco disappeared in a harsh crack.
"I hope you're happy with yourself," Ariadne snapped at last, turning on her mother. "You've made your granddaughter cry."
"Don't make me the villain, Ariadne," Sian responded evenly. "You know what this boy is like. You've told me so yourself."
"Perhaps I've changed my mind about him," she said resolutely. "Can't you see that Leolin loves him? Does her happiness mean anything to you?"
"Have you forgotten already how much Lucius Malfoy made you suffer? He broke your heart and it's never mended. Is that what you want for your only daughter?"
"He isn't his father," Ariadne cried, gesturing to the hall. "Stop trying to punish him for something that happened before he was born!"
"I'm not punishing him for anything," Sian roared. "I'm protecting my family."
"No," Ariadne choked, tears welling up. "You're tearing it apart. If you keep pushing Leolin away we'll never see her! Is that what you want, to lose her? I for one want to hold my grandchildren when they're born."
"Leolin is young; she'll find someone else."
Ariadne shook her head, tears slipping down her cheeks. "No, she won't. Don't try and take this away from her; she'll only resent you for it. "
"Ariadne, if you let her go through with this then you have failed her as a mother!"
Ariadne shook her head in disgust.
"No more than you failed me," she spit out.
With that she stormed out of the dining room to complete and utter silence.