Two Days in London

Ron stepped from the floo into the kitchen of Grimmauld Place and bumped into Hermione's back. She in turn was attempting not to stumble over Ginny, who was sandwiched between her and Harry. As the four sorted themselves a smiling Molly Weasley greeted them, "Good morning Dears, breakfast is ready and waiting, have a seat."

"Um, good to see you Mom, but why are you here?" A befuddled Ron queried, echoing the general sentiment shared by the other three.

"Because I received your owl telling me you'd be here of course," Molly answered while giving them each a hug and directing them towards the table. "Kreacher was very concerned that you shouldn't arrive to an empty house and no breakfast on the table. The poor dear almost cancelled his appointment with the caterers because of it. In the end I was able to convince him that Harry wouldn't mind if I was the one to greet you and he should keep the meeting." She patted Harry on the shoulder as he took his seat, "Thank you again for offering his assistance dear. I'll admit things were slightly awkward at the start, but he has truly proven to be invaluable. I don't mind telling you he's managed to work some deals I would never have dreamed of trying for; his negotiating skills are a wonder to behold. All and all a true joy to work with, and who knew the little fellow could be such a flatterer." As the others exchanged curious glances Molly took a seat at the table, "Enough about that," she smiled. "What are your plans for the next couple of days then?"

"I know Ginny wants to go over wedding plans with you, and Teddy's birthday is coming up, so I'd really like to visit him and Andromeda," Harry began. "Other than that I don't have any real plans, outside of getting away from the school for a day or two."

Ginny pulled her traveling bag up to her lap and started fishing out her notes, "That's right; I had some questions about the order of the service and the seating arrangements at the reception."

Molly waved her hand as if shooing the notes back into Ginny's bag, "Later Dear, finish your breakfast first. We'll have the rest of the day to go over them." Turning her attention to Ron she asked, "What about you and Hermione, any plans?"

Ron shoved the rest of the strip of bacon he'd been eating into his mouth and appeared to swallow it whole, "No, not really. Just tagging along with Harry I guess. We'll probably split our time between Hermione's and the Burrow."

"Not so fast," Hermione countered. "I'm meant to be the maid-of-honor; I think I should spend some time helping Ginny and your mom with the wedding."

Harry and Ron exchanged a quick glance. Although they were both hesitant to admit it, their "no real plans" had included more alone time with the girls than the present situation appeared to be offering. Knowing there was no delicate way to argue the point; they contented themselves with finishing their breakfast and were soon traipsing to Harry's study with the others. Harry stopped at the door, his mouth agape. His once austere study had been transformed into something that could easily be described as a photo of Winston Churchill's war room come to life. In place of maps of Europe, North Africa, the Orient and Great Britain were seating charts, guest lists and menu options. A table had been placed in the center of the room and was cluttered with assorted notes, accepted invitations and the odd bit of leftover, bite size, cake samples. As Ron took a seat in the corner and tried not to look overly disgruntled, Molly brought the others up to speed on the planning.

For his part, Harry made an honest effort to remain interested. However he soon found his mind wandering and, unaware just how long it had actually been sitting on the table, popped a bite of cake into his mouth. The stale cardboard flavor, combined with the near concrete texture soon had him trying to discreetly remove it and deposit it in a nearby bin. Mission complete and relieved to have caused only a minor disturbance, Harry addressed the others, "Excuse me Ginny, Mrs. Weasley, just a quick question. How many people have we invited?"

"If I'm not mistaken the number of invitations that have been sent is now over five hundred," Ginny answered looking at her mother who nodded confirmation.

"Over five hundred!" Harry ran a hand through his hair. "How can we possibly have done, even including the entire extended Weasley and Prewett families?"

Ginny smiled at Harry and motioned for him to join her by one of the charts on the wall. This particular chart consisted of a list of names, many of which Harry didn't even recognize, followed by three columns labeled: posted, accepted, number in party. "As you can see, we have indeed invited the entire Weasley and Prewett families and at your request, the Dursleys, Thad Rowen, and the Pipers. In addition we've invited the surviving members of the Order of the Phoenix, all the surviving members of the DA and their families, the whole of the staff from Hogwarts, and a great number of our other friends and their families."

"That makes sense," Harry replied as he started studying the chart, observing that the majority of the parties would include two or more individuals. Scanning the names he suddenly stopped, "The Minister for Muggles, number in party two?"

"Ah, yes, it seems Kingsley mentioned the upcoming wedding during one of their meetings and he insisted he and his wife would like to attend." Molly explained. "According to Kingsley this one is very different from predecessor, very forward thinking and opened minded."

Harry had found the Prime Minister quite likable during their one meeting and had no objection to his attending the wedding. However he did have two concerns which he shared with the others. "I'm sure you've already considered this, but isn't inviting the Prime Minister's wife a violation of some secrecy of magic statute or something, and how are they going to travel to Hogwarts without other muggles noticing? He does usually have a bodyguard or two and a plethora of media types hovering nearby you know." Harry turned to look at Ginny, "Did you know about this, and if so why didn't you tell me?" Even before he finished Harry didn't like the way it sounded and quickly added, "Sorry Gin, I didn't mean for that to sound so harsh."

Ginny was about to speak when a smiling Molly cut across her, "Just like you Dear, Ginny didn't know until this very moment. As for your other concerns, Kingsley is of the opinion, and the Wizengamot agrees with him, that only two people know everything the Minister for Muggles knows, the Minister himself and his wife. So you see there's no real trouble in regard to that. Travel was a bit more of a sticky issue. It has been decided that the Minister and his wife will travel to their private residence by traditional muggle means and then Kingsley will escort them via the floo network to Hogwarts. The Minister is quite looking forward to it actually and, as I understand things, has already practiced by accompanying Kingsley on a trip between their offices."

Harry almost laughed at this revelation, "So that's that then." Winking at Ginny he added, "If my experience, somewhat limited though it may be, has taught me anything it's that his wife probably already knows before the Minister gets around to telling her."

"Here, here, spot on mate," Ron exhorted as Molly, Ginny and Hermione exchanged bemused glances. Standing he addressed the three women in the room. "Just how do you lot manage that anyway?"

"Now Ronnybuns, you know we can't tell you that," Hermione cooed, wrapping her arm through his and stretching up to kiss his cheek. "We'd be doomed to a life as outcasts if we did."

"Ronnybuns!" Ginny and Harry snorted in unison, both trying desperately not to laugh aloud. Ginny quickly added, "This is golden, George will have a field day when he finds out."

Having already endured the unveiling of the pet name Mione, a slight smirk was the only indication that Hermione felt anything other then concern for Ron who had instantly flushed scarlet. His initial outburst of "George isn't going to find out, he'll take the mickey out of me!" Was almost immediately replaced by a more controlled response of, "Oh, who am I kidding, of course he'll find out. Isn't this just a peachy development."

Torn between the simple enjoyment of having Hermione on his arm, and the desire to sit back down and sulk, Ron was spared the decision by Harry. "Come on Ron, what say we leave the ladies to it and pay your dad a visit." After that we can stop by to see Andromeda Tonks." Ron was all too happy to accept Harry's offer and after saying his good byes he turned towards the door only to find he was waiting on Harry who had been struck by inspiration and was now talking with Ginny. "What say we host dinner tonight? I don't want to call Kreacher from his appointment, would you talk to him when he returns? He already basically considers you the mistress of the house, I'm certain it won't be a problem."

"Of course I will," Ginny smiled. "I think it's a great idea. How many should I tell him to expect?"

Harry thought for a moment, "Well assuming your mom and dad will be joining us that makes six." Molly indicated they would and Harry continued, "Hermione can ask her parents and I'll ask Andromeda when I see her and we may bump into some others. Why don't we say ten or twelve just to make certain. How's seven o'clock sound?"

"Ten or twelve at seven, got it. Will you be returning for lunch?"

"I don't think so, if your dad isn't too busy we may ask him out." Harry gave Ginny a quick kiss, "See you this afternoon, love you. Come on Ronnybuns, let's be off."

"Love you," Ginny called after him, trying very hard not to look at Hermione for fear of laughing at her brother.

As soon as the boys were out of earshot Hermione spun to face Ginny, "I hope you and Harry aren't going to be too hard on Ron about my little pet name. If you are I just might have to tell everyone, including your parents, what you've taken to calling Harry during our girl talks."

"You wouldn't dare!" Ginny flared. Twin flashes of fire and fear flickering in her eyes as her cheeks displayed just the slightest hint of color.

"I would," was Hermione's calm reply.

Molly rushed between them, "Ladies, ladies, it doesn't matter at the moment we have work to do. In any case, I'm more interested in why Harry is suddenly in such a hurry to visit your father."

"He's worried all this," Ginny waved her arms indicating the wedding materials, "Is going to cost too much and wants to offer to help pay for it."

Molly raised her right eyebrow, "And he told you this, then?"

"Of course not," Ginny replied, "He's too much of a gentleman to worry me with it, that's why he's going to talk to dad. I know it may seem a little old fashioned, but I find it endearing." Responding to the inquiring looks of both Hermione and her mother she quickly added, "I'm almost his wife and as Harry himself pointed out, I just know."

"Truth be told, I suspect your father might be starting to worry about it himself." Molly picked up a piece of parchment from the table. "What say we get to work?"

Harry apparated into the atrium of the Ministry of Magic and found Ron apologizing as he helped a witch up from the floor. Regaining her feet the stranger brushed off the front of her emerald green silk robes, clearly expensive and clearly designed to best display the curves of the figure underneath. Satisfied that the front was in order she turned her head to look over first her right, then her left shoulder. Her final adjustment was to the short pointed hat, adorned with a single pheasant feather. Satisfied that all was well she turned to Ron and smiled, "Not to worry, no harm seems to have been done. For future reference you may wish to try apparating into one of the designated alcoves," she pointed to indicate there location, "They're enchanted to help avoid collisions."

Ron handed her the bag he had retrieved from the floor, "Thank you ma'am, I'll keep that in mind. You're sure everything is fine?"

"Yes, yes, all is well," she smiled, slipping the strap of the purse over her shoulder. "Have a good day." The witch turned to leave, recognized Harry and turned to Ron and studied him more intently, "It was a pleasure to bump into you Mr. Weasley." Turning back to Harry she nodded, "Mr. Potter."

"Likewise ma'am, a good day to you," Ron replied while Harry merely nodded his acknowledgement of her greeting.

As they watched her walk away Harry leaned his head towards Ron, "I'll say this much mate, if you're going to have a crash landing that's not a bad way to have it. I think she was a little sweet on you by the way."

"Come off it," Ron replied, blindly punching at Harry's shoulder. "She didn't even recognize me until she saw you. Not that it really matters; you and I are just two dogs in the back garden aren't we? All we can do is run to the end of our lead and bark."

Harry's sudden outburst of laughter caused several passersby to cast curious glances in his direction. Wishing to avoid any more of a scene he quickly composed himself and gave Ron a pat on the back, "Come on mate, let's go see your dad."

The door of Arthur Weasley's office opened just as Harry and Ron reached his receptionist's desk. Arthur, dressed in his usual eclectic mix of wizard and muggle clothing, emerged with a young wizard neither Ron or Harry recognized. There appeared to be nothing unique about the younger man, his hair was neatly trimmed and he wore the standard pinstriped navy-blue robes that all but constituted a uniform for junior bureaucrats. As they cleared the door a smiling Arthur clasped the young wizard's hand and shook it firmly, "Well done Fowler, very well done, this is outstanding news indeed. I'll be delighted to pass it on to the Minister and the rest of the cabinet during our meeting this afternoon." Fowler beamed as he basked in the glory of his superior's public praise, thanking Arthur he turned to leave the office acknowledging Harry and Ron with a nod as he passed.

Watching Fowler leave Arthur noticed Ron and Harry standing at reception and walked towards them with his arms extended in a welcoming gesture. "Ronald my boy! Harry! So good to see you, I was hoping to have the chance while you were in town." He embraced them both and stood back smiling, his mood clearly elevated by something more then just their arrival. Harry and Ron smiled back, both certain it wasn't necessary to express their desire to talk with him but neither sure what they should do next. Without saying another word the senior Weasley beckoned them to follow and turned towards his office. Reaching the door he didn't wait to usher the boys through. Instead he entered the office before them, walked straight to his desk, turned the file sitting on the center of the blotter face down, indicated they should take a seat and leaned back against the desk's front edge. Taking his seat Harry guessed the file must contain the news Fowler had delivered and further surmised that Arthur's actions meant it was classified at a level slightly higher than future son-in-law, or even actual son for that matter. Arthur was the first to break the silence, "Boys I'm afraid I can only spare you a couple of minutes. I've a meeting with my department heads at the top of the hour."

This did not come as good news to Harry who'd hope to find a tactful way to bring up the cost of the wedding. Deciding that bluntness was now the only way forward he shifted to the front of his seat, "Sir, I do have something I wish to discuss with you and as time is short I'll just come straight to it. Going over things with Ginny and Mrs. Weasley this morning it dawned on me how much the wedding is going to cost. Would you be willing to allow me to pay for a portion?"

This request didn't come as a complete surprise to Arthur who had been certain it would be made at some point. "How's this sound, I'll free up a full hour around lunch and we can discuss it in detail. Do you remember the café we visited this past spring?" Harry indicated he did, "Good, shall we say twelve-thirty then?" Ron and Harry both agreed and Arthur continued, "Harry there is another matter I'd advise you to consider. Have you ever considered finding professional representation? That is, have you given any thought to hiring a personal manager or retaining a lawyer? A situation like this is one where it would be very helpful." Harry replied he hadn't and Arthur continued, "Well something for you to consider then," while extending his hand indicating it was time to leave.

Ron stood, walked to his father and took his hand before wrapping his arms around him in a strong hug, "See you at lunch, Dad. Don't work to hard."

As Harry shook Arthur's hand he suddenly remembered one more bit of news, "Sir, Ginny and I are hosting dinner at seven this evening at Grimmauld Place. Mrs. Weasley has already accepted on your behalf, but I feel a personal invitation is more appropriate."

"Thank you, I look forward to it," Arthur replied as they walked to the door. "I'll see you both at lunch."

A befuddled Ron stuffed his hands in his pockets as they made their way back towards the elevators, "Blimey Harry, I've never known Dad not to be able to nick a few minutes for a visit. Mom wrote his day is all meetings and reports and he never gets the chance to do any field work anymore, but I still expected ten or fifteen minutes with him. Of course the upside is his position allows him to push through a few of his pet projects."

"Do you suppose the news Fowler delivered was about one of those?" Harry asked as he reached to push the call button. "What ever it was seemed to make your dad pretty happy. I suspect we could find the answer in that file he turned over on his desk."

Ron shrugged, "Thought you might have noticed that too." The elevator arrived, putting an end to any discussions about secret Ministry projects, even if neither one knew with any degree of certainty that they were talking about such things. As the doors slid closed Ron provided the change of subject, "So what do you want to do until lunch?"

"Don't know," Harry replied, drumming his fingers lightly against his thighs. "Go see Andromeda and maybe stop by to say hi to George I guess. By the way, do you happen to know where her office is?"

"Not the first clue." Ron responded before adding, "My guess would be she has two, one near Ottery St. Catchpole, to meet with local clients, and one near the Ministry because that's were the action is. The security desk in the lobby should have a business and professional's directory we can check." In short order the two found themselves standing at the security desk, flipping through the pages of a substantial volume and debating whether they should be searching under solicitors, barristers, or law offices. Despite their uncertainty the desired entry was soon located.

Tonks and Associates Law Offices

Offering representation on all legal matters wizard and muggle.

9 River's Edge, Otter St. Catchpole

Floo address:

Tonks Law Ottery St. Catchpole

Harry closed the directory and thanked the attendant as he slid it back to him. "Well that's that then, Just the one office it would appear. Should we be on our way?"

Ron had already started towards the grates lining the atrium and turned to look back at Harry, "You talking or coming along?" With two quick steps Harry closed the distance, gave Ron a friendly punch on the shoulder and whispered a playful insult before they stepped one after the other into the green flames and departed the Ministry. Stepping into the reception of Tonks and Associates, Harry brushed himself off and joined Ron who was already addressing the receptionist. "Mr. Weasley and Mr. Potter to see Mrs. Tonks, we don't have an appointment."

The receptionist, who Harry was fairly certain had been a Hufflepuff in the same year as Percy stood, "Certainly Sir, Let me just check for you." Disappearing down the hall leading from the room she reappeared a few moments later, "Please follow me Sirs." Ron and Harry followed the blond witch to the first office on the left of the corridor. She knocked once and opened the door, "Please go through gentlemen."

Harry and Ron both thanked her as they entered the office to find Andromeda Tonks standing between two large antique walnut desks arranged so the occupants would be facing one another. She smiled as they entered and stepped forward to greet them, "Harry, Ron, so nice to see you. I admit to being slightly surprised, it was my understanding that you would be spending your holiday at Hogwarts." She warmly shook Ron's hand before turning to give Harry a hug. Breaking their embrace she indicated a sitting group of four wingback chairs upholstered in green leather, "Please have a seat."

Taking his seat Harry answered, "The plan was to stay at school, we're only just taking two days off." Suddenly aware that instead of looking at his host he was scanning the massive volume of books lining the shelves behind each of the desks, Harry quickly returned his glance to Andromeda.

She responded with a smile, "I see you've noticed the tools of my trade. Those behind my desk deal with wizard law, while those behind Ted's desk deal with muggle law. I almost had them removed when…" she paused for a moment, the smile dropping from her face, before drawing a deep breath, "Well, Ted and I worked facing each other for many years, the office wouldn't be the same without them."

"I understand," Harry replied sliding forward to take her hands into his. "Do you still practice muggle law?"

The smile returned to Andromeda's face, "I've never practiced muggle law, too big a hassle for a magic born to gain admittance into one of their schools. However the firm does have a most gifted muggle born witch who handles cases requiring muggle involvement. In fact I have an opening for a new associate. Ideally I'd like to hire another muggle born who would clerk for us while attending muggle law school. Do you have any classmate who might be interested?"

Dean Thomas immediately flashed into Harry's mind, "As a matter of fact I think we do."

"Then you must have them contact me and we can make an appointment to meet the Saturday after N.E.W.T.S. are complete." Leaning forward Andromeda continued, "Now I suspect the reason for your visit this morning wasn't to job hunt for your friends. What can I do for you?"

"You are correct," Harry replied. "Firstly Ginny and I are hosting dinner at Grimmauld Place this evening, say sevenish, and would like to invite you and Teddy. Second I was wondering if I might watch Teddy for you tomorrow. Finally, on the advice of Mr. Weasley, I'm seeking someone to keep an eye on my affairs and was wondering if you'd be available."

Andromeda produced her wand and conjured a patronus in the form of a large shaggy dog, "Georgie would you please come to my office." The silvery shimmer of a dog disappeared and she turned her attention back to Harry, "I'd be delighted to accept all three requests." The three continued in conversation until they were interrupted by a knock at the door. The door swung open and the witch Harry and Ron had met at the Ministry entered the office. Andromeda stood as she addressed the new comer, "Ah, Georgie, please do come in. Harry and Ron I'd like to introduce Georgie Simpkins. She's my senior associate and just may be my new partner by year's end. Georgie this is Harry Potter and Ronald Weasley, Harry has come to us today looking for personal representation."

Georgie Simpkins was in her mid-thirties with sparkling green eyes that almost exactly matched her robes, and sandy hair she tended to wear pulled back into a bun. While not a women of stunning beauty, one would be hard pressed to find a man not willing to spend a moment or two admiring her, and to Harry her personality immediately emanated an aura of likeability. Smiling she now strode forward, hand outstretched, "Mr. Potter, Mr. Weasley, a pleasure to meet you again." With a playful wink she added, "formally."

Harry accepted her hand, "The feeling is mutual Ms. Simpkins, always nice to attach a name to the face."

As Georgie went on to greet Ron, Andromeda looked to Harry, "Have you three met?"

"Let's just say Ron bumped into Georgie at the Ministry earlier," Harry answered with a sly grin.

A look of understanding spread across Andromeda's face, "Ah, didn't know about the apparition alcoves. Your godfather Sirius used to forgo them on a regular basis. He would never admit it, but I always suspected his hope was to land an elbow on the right person."

Harry chuckled as he agreed that it did indeed sound like Sirius. After a few more minutes small talk he, Ron and Georgie retired to her office were the process of granting the firm of Tonks and Associates permission to research and report on the holdings of Mr. Harry James Potter began. Harry also requested that Georgie draw up the paper work to establish a holding account allowing Arthur to access funds for the wedding.

For Ron, who had no vested interest in the proceedings, the next hour seemed to drag on interminably. It wasn't that he begrudged Harry his fame or fortune; life had already taught him the grass isn't always greener, and he was well past worrying about not being able to give Hermione all the things Harry could give Ginny. It was simply a case of having nothing to do but watch others complete a tedious task. A task he was correct in presuming Harry didn't exactly find enjoyable himself. To this end he set about trying to find ways to keep his mind occupied, and had almost succeeded in memorizing the title of every book lining the shelves of Georgie's office when he became aware that Harry was now standing and thanking her for her assistance.

Realizing the meeting was finished, Ron stood just as Georgie quipped, "Not at all Harry. However once you see how much I charge per billable hour you might not be quite as thankful. I'll have a currier deliver the holding account paper work for your signature and pass along any other news the moment I have it."

Harry thanked her once again and after a round of goodbyes he and Ron found themselves in reception trying to decide what to do next. There wasn't really time to do anything else before lunch, but it was still too early to meet Arthur. They finally settled on a quick trip to see George who was invited to dinner along with Angelina. Leaving Weasley's Wizarding Wheezes they chanced being noticed and apparated to an alley near the café. Arriving at the cafe ahead of Arthur they took a booth, informed the waitress they would soon be joined by a third and chatted until the senior Weasley arrived. Arthur didn't have much to share; he had been in the same meeting practically the entire time and much of what was discussed couldn't leave the halls of the Ministry. However he was delighted with Harry's announcement that he had taken his advice and retained a lawyer to oversee his personal affairs. He was equally pleased to hear that Georgie Simpkins would be handling his account, noting, "Nothing against Andromeda mind you, but Ms. Simpkins is the better person for the job." Leaning forward he lowered his voice to a whisper, adding, "And pleasantly attractive. Don't you think?"

Before Ron could say a word Harry quickly injected, "I think she feels the same way about Ron."

A flustered Ron shot an embarrassed look at his father and a vengeful look at Harry. "Dad, how could you say that? Dads don't notice that sort of thing, and don't even think of asking me how I could be here if that's true, you weren't my dad then. Harry you can just shut it. I already told you she's not sweet on me."

Harry couldn't help himself and quickly retorted, "I'm telling you she is… Ronnybuns."

Arthur almost shot tea through his nose and quickly placed his mug back on the table. "Whoa, whoa, whoa, back it up a moment. She called you Ronnybuns?"

Ron ran his hand across his face, "No Dad, Hermione calls me Ronnybuns. Bloody hell, now I'm calling myself that." He turned his attention back to Harry, "I swear on the name of Merlin that I am going to find out what Ginny calls you and tell everybody."

"Actually she calls me a couple of things," Harry responded lifting his glass to his lips and taking a sip before continuing. "You already know the first, in fact almost the entire school knows it, heck even your dad knows it. The second, well I know you mate, trust me you don't want to learn that bit of information. It's fairly intimate in nature."

This latest revelation earned a raised eyebrow from Arthur and continued indignation from Ron who had no intention of backing down, "Shriveled figs doesn't really count. It was just a joke because it was cold when you made that naked flight of yours. I know the second one has to be something good and I'm going to find out what it is. I'll start by asking Hermione when we get back to Grimmauld Place."

Harry took a bite of his sandwich and used the time he was chewing to contemplate Arthur's reaction. Just a few months earlier he wouldn't have dared to say what he'd said in front of Ginny's father. More recently he would have hoped the comment wouldn't create any reaction. Even something as simple as a raised eyebrow would have been reason enough to be mortified. However Harry had finally come to realize the Ginny was right and Arthur, as all fathers must eventually do, had accepted the truth of their relationship. Wondering how he would handle the same situation, should he ever have a daughter of his own, Harry swallowed his bite and turned his attention back to Ron, "Fair enough. But when you find yourself sulking in a corner because she's your little sister and I'm your best mate, don't say I didn't warn you."

Arthur had indeed come to terms with truth of Harry's and his little girl's relationship but preferred not to spend time contemplating it, and with his gentle encouragement the conversation was shepherded in new directions. As the three finished discussing the pending birth of Arthur's and Molly's first grandchild it suddenly occurred to Harry that he would become an uncle the moment he and Ginny were pronounced husband and wife. Startled that he hadn't made the rather simple connection prior to this, Harry wandered the corridors of his own mind looking for other facts he may have overlooked. He was so lost in this self exploration that he was startled to notice Arthur and Ron standing to depart. Pulling himself back into the real world Harry stood and joined them for the short walk back to the Ministry. As they said their goodbyes Arthur promised, despite Harry's insistence that he should use it freely, not to dip into wedding account anymore than absolutely necessary.

Flooing to Grimmauld Place Harry and Ron stepped into the kitchen where they were enthusiastically greeted by Kreacher who was already making preparations for the dinner. The old elf repeatedly sought assurance from Harry that he wasn't upset by his meeting with the caterers instead of greeting him upon his arrival earlier in the day. After many confirmations on Harry's part Kreacher finally accepted the truth of it and returned his chores. A quick search of the house found Ginny and Hermione in the parlor, their backs to the door, chatting with the portrait of Harry's grandparents. Harry looked at the portrait and held a finger to his lips as he and Ron quietly slipped into room. Inching across the room, Harry noticed movement out of the corner of his eye. Turning his head he realized he had seen his own reflection on the glass door of the curio cabinet in the far corner. Shifting his gaze, Harry stopped and smiled as Ginny's reflection smiled back at him. Blissfully unaware that his movements were being tracked, Ron continued making his way towards Hermione. Reaching her he extended his arms, intending to tickle her ribs, and almost fall backwards when she jumped up and spun to face him.

Hermione walked around the chair, gave Ron a peck on the cheek and took his hand in her own, "Good you're back. Come on, let's go visit my parents. Goodbye Harry, goodbye Ginny, we'll see you at dinner. Enjoy the rest of your afternoon."

Ginny joined Harry and slipped her arm around his waist as he placed his around her shoulders. They both echoed Hermione's goodbye and waved in response to Ron's feeble gesture as he was led from the room. With their friends departure Harry sat on the sofa and Ginny laid with her head on his lap as they conversed with his grandparents and caught each other up on the day's activities.

Shortly after six Molly and Arthur returned marking the arrival of the first of the dinner guests. Over the course of the next half hour the remainder arrived and gathered in the parlor for drinks and conversation. Harry was slightly disappointed when Andromeda arrived without Teddy, but accepted her explanation that it would be his bedtime before dinner was completed. His disappoint was farther nullified by the knowledge that he and his godson would be spending the whole of the next day together. At precisely seven Kreacher announced dinner was served and, with the next day being a work day, Harry and Ginny once more found themselves alone by the relatively early hour of ten.

The following morning Harry slowly became aware of several things at once. The street outside his house was becoming noisier, sunlight was peaking through his window, somebody was straddling his waist and fingers, not his own, were tracing lazy lines across his chest. Opening his eyes he smiled up at Ginny who lowered her lips to his for a slow lingering kiss before climbing off the bed, "Good morning sleepyhead. Andromeda and Teddy will be arriving in half an hour. Nothing else I tried was working so I thought this might get you up."

Swinging his legs over the edge of the bed Harry sat up and glanced down, "Well it worked." He looked back up at Ginny and grinned, "Let's be honest Gin, if we put our minds to the task, half an hour is twenty-five more minutes than we need."

Ginny giggled, "Last night wasn't enough for you? Later, I promise." She walked to Harry and gave him a kiss, gently pushing his hands away when the tried to pull her closer. "Get dressed and come down to the kitchen. Kreacher has already set breakfast." She left the room leaving Harry to dress and grumble about being able to take care of some things himself.

Sitting at the kitchen table Harry smiled as he sipped his coffee and watched Kreacher digging through the cupboards trying to find the appropriate bowls and flatware to serve a twelve month old. Feeling Ginny's foot rubbing his shin Harry sat down his mug and looked at her with an exasperated expression, "Look here missy. I know I'm not guilt free when it comes to teasing, but I swear if you keep on with this I won't be responsible for what happens."

Ginny withdrew her foot, folded her hands on the table, bowed her head and whispered, "Yes sir." Cocking her head ever so slightly, she shot Harry a coy smile.

Harry fell back in his chair and threw his arms into the air, "I give up. Are you ever not sexy?"

Ginny placed her elbows on the table and lifted her hands so she could rest her chin on them, "You don't seem to think so."

Harry had to admit it was true. However he wasn't about to sit by and let Ginny take undisputed control of the game, standing he walked to her, placed a hand under her chin and lifted her head. Lowering his head he stopped with their lips just hairs breathe apart and whispered, "I'll be in my study reading the Prophet."

Ginny turned and called after him as he walked from the room, "You're a teasing roguish rascal Potter."

"You started it Weasley," he called back, not bothering to turn around. Knowing Ginny would soon follow after him; Harry didn't proceed to his study but stopped outside the kitchen door and leaned against the wall to wait in ambush. The ringing of the front bell snapped him back to the reality of the day's activities and he pushed himself off the wall mumbling, "We are definitely waiting five or six years to start a family."

Harry opened the front door and took Teddy into his arms as he invited Andromeda in. His godson's hair immediately transformed into the same black, tangled mass as Harry's, "Hey there little guy, you remember me don't you."

"He must," Andromeda confirmed as they were joined by Ginny and Kreacher. "He's already developed a fairly reliable degree of control over his hair and eye color. If he changed to match you it was most likely on purpose or due to the excitement of seeing you."

"Is he talking yet?" Ginny asked as she joined them and relieved Andromeda of the nappy bag.

"Yes and with a fair deal of success, he's also doing fairly well with walking. Oh, and we've had a couple of accidental magic incidences. You'll need to keep an eye on that," Andromeda replied. "Let's see now, you should have everything you need in the bag. He's already eaten breakfast, for lunch he can eat normal food as long as it's cut small enough. Nothing spicy please, I'm the one who has to deal with him tonight. He still takes a bottle after lunch before going down for a nap, usually about an hour. Apart from that change his nappy when necessary and have a good day, I should be back by five-thirty. Any questions?"

Harry was still trying to digest everything Andromeda had said and merely shook his head no while thinking, 'definitely not starting a family for ten or twelve years'. Ginny however was slightly more on top her game and answered, "We'll be fine Mrs. Tonks, don't worry about a thing."

Andromeda leaned over and gave Teddy a kiss on the forehead, "You be good for Harry and Ginny young man and I'll see you tonight." She smiled and waved the fingers of her right hand, "Bye, bye, love you."

Teddy smiled and tried to wave back, "wuv uw gan ma."

Harry's heart melted and he thought, 'married in June, first child in March.'

When Andromeda had departed Harry felt a slight tugging on his pant leg and looked down at a very apprehensive Kreacher, "Kreacher is hoping Master Potter will not mind." The elf paused and rung his hands, "It… it has been many years since there has been an infant in the house, might Kreacher look."

Harry smiled, "Of course you can." He knelt down until Teddy and Kreacher were face to face. Much to everyone's surprise Teddy's nose and ears transformed to match those of the elf.

Ginny and Harry looked on in amazement, watching Kreacher doing what was almost a jig before proclaiming in an absolutely pleasant voice, "Oh look he's an metamorphmagus how delightful." Looking back to Harry he announced, "Lunch shall be ready at twelve. I shall follow Mistress Andromeda's instructions to prepare young Master Teddy's. I shall also assemble Master Regulus' old crib and place in the room next to Master Potter's. Will this be sufficient?"

"More then sufficient Kreacher, thank you," Harry replied standing back up. The elf bowed and almost skipped back down the hallway towards the kitchen.

Harry and Ginny took Teddy to the parlor were they introduced him to Harry's grandparents. Teddy and James Potter took an immediate liking to each other and amused the others as they attempted to touch, neither understanding that real life and portrait can't truly met. Placing his godson on the floor Harry dug through his bag to see what toys he had brought along. Removing a small bag of building blocks he poured it out only to discover the bag was enchanted and actually contained a massive number of blocks. Ginny joined Harry and his next discovery brought a smile to his face, "Look Gin, it's the owl we gave him. Hey Teddy you want your owl. Teddy?" Harry panicked, how long had he not been paying attention, thirty seconds. Thirty seconds and he'd lost his godson. "Teddy where are you?" he cried racing from the room with Ginny close behind. Much too both their relief they found him just outside the parlor. Scooping Teddy into his arms Harry chided, "No more running off, do you hear me." Returning to the parlor Harry took the precaution of closing the door before joining Teddy on the floor to stack building blocks. By the time lunch had been served and Teddy had his bottle, Harry and Ginny were both ready to join him for a nap. Collapsing onto to Harry's bed they both closed their eyes and slept, the mornings teasing not even a remote consideration.

Harry woke from his nap and quietly slid from the bed allowing Ginny to sleep. Walking to the neighboring room he peered in at an empty crib, "Teddy! Not again!" Sprinting back to his own room Harry threw open the door and shouted, "Ginny wake up! We've lost Teddy again! You search down stairs and I'll start on this floor!" Running from room to room searching frantically he didn't hear Ginny calling to him until he exited yet another empty room and almost ran into her.

Ginny took Harry by the shoulders, "It's alright, he's with Ron and Hermione. They arrived while we were napping and when they heard him fuss the decided to let us be and watch him themselves."

A very greatly relived Harry collapsed against the wall, "Thank god." He smiled at Ginny, "We're pretty much rubbish at this, aren't we."

"We're not that bad, just not experienced. When the time comes we'll do just fine." Ginny extended her hand to Harry, "Come on, let's go join them."

Harry and Ginny entered the parlor to find Teddy on Hermione's lap, laughing and clapping as Ron levitated the stuffed owl around the room. "Now why didn't I think of that," Harry lamented before being struck by inspiration. "I'll be right back Gin." Disappearing around the corner he returned a short time later carrying his toy broom. "Happy birthday Teddy. Fancy a little fly?"

Hermione looked at Harry with concern, "Are you sure? Isn't he a little too young?"

"He'll be fine Hermione," Harry replied. "He's walking and if you can walk you can fly. Besides, I was his age when Sirius gave this to me. It just seems right."

Knowing she would receive no support from Ron or Ginny, Hermione acquiesced and let her objections drop. Harry ordered the broom into the air, took Teddy from Hermione's lap, and placed him on it. Once he had adjusted Teddy's grip Harry took a deep breath, "Right here we go." Tentatively he removed his hands from the broom leaving his godson floating in the air. Suddenly Teddy leaned forward causing the broom to drift forward. Stunned he sat back up and would have fallen off had Harry not been there to steady him. "Not a bad start little guy, lets have another go." This time Harry maintained his grip on both Teddy and the broom. It wasn't long before his godson realized he could manipulate the brooms flight by moving his body and soon Harry was chasing him around the room as Hermione fished a camera from her bag and snapped a series of pictures.

The balance of the afternoon flew by with the only interruption being the arrival of Georgie Simpkins. Having business at the Ministry she had opted out of using a currier, choosing instead to personally deliverer the holding account paper work for Harry's signature. The entire transaction took less then fifteen minutes and Hermione spent the entire time sitting with her arms folded across her chest, eyeing Georgie suspiciously.

Hermione's actions raised concern in Ron, who pulled Harry aside when he returned from seeing Georgie out, "Harry you might be right. Georgie might be sweet on me. Did you see Hermione's reaction to her? How the bloody hell can she instantly sense things like that? What am I meant to do now?"

Realizing the sincerity of he's friends plea Harry did his best to help, "I don't know how she does it, but I know Ginny seems to have the same ability. It must go back to some sort of primordial hardwiring that enables them to sense threats or something. I think what you're meant to do is nothing for now, unless Hermione says or asks anything about Georgie. Then you immediately tell her everything instead of trying to pass it off as her imagination."

Ron gave Harry a pat on the back, "Thanks mate, that seems to make sense. You sure it will work?"

Harry shook his head, "Absolutely no idea."

At precisely five-thirty Andromeda arrived and as Harry handed his godson back to her he waved his fingers, "Bye, bye Teddy."

Teddy smiled at his godfather and wiggled his fingers, "Bye He'we."

Harry smiled broadly, feeling as wonderful as he could feel. Ginny and Hermione both practically swooned, "That's so cute." Even Ron had to grin and admit it was, "Pretty neat."

There two days in London almost complete, there was only one task to complete. Once Harry told Kreacher good-bye he, Ginny, Ron and Hermione apparated to the Burrow for dinner. After a pleasant evening the four stood outside the front gate saying their good byes and see you back at schools before Ron and Hermione departed to pay her parents one last visit.

Alone again for the first time since breakfast, Ginny faced Harry and took his hands into hers, "You know, we don't have to be back until ten and I did make you a promise this morning."