((December 25, 2019 marked 1 year since posting this story. And this story has reached 5,000 views.))
((I have realized that 25 chapters is not enough so I am adding one more to make it 26 chapters instead.))
((Enjoy the chapter.))
- -Chapter 23: Raven's Pregnancy- -
- -Raven's POV- -Monday, April 11, 2005- -
A few days have passed since finding out that I was pregnant. Draco had set up an appointment with a Pregnancy Healer, who would be coming here today in less than a few minutes to see how far along I was and determine a due date. The Healer would be coming here daily to check on me as to make sure the pregnancy is doing well and to make sure that I'm doing well.
Most Pure-blood families preferred to have tests and births done at home. An old tradition and with healing magic being more advanced, it has become much safer to do and the risks for the mother is lessened greatly. However, many Healers still recommend giving birth at the hospital, especially if pregnancy is risky for the mother.
I had chosen to give birth here at the manor, like my mother did at Mancer Manor with my brothers and I. It'd be natural and all the more painful for there is no spell or potion to dull the pain of contractions or birth unfortunately, but of course a potion is in development for that as well. It was a bit scary, but Mother told me years ago that would be alright. As for me giving birth here, we would soon have a Birthing Room set up and ready when the time came near.
Recent magical developments now allow Pregnancy Healers use a special kind of magic specially designed for pregnancy. This includes determining how far along a woman is in pregnancy to determine a due date, although the due date is a guess if anything.
One very new spell was recently approved and this was based entirely on the ultrasound used by muggles and will allow a mother to see the fetus inside the womb. Of course, we'll have to wait until I am a few months along before that spell can be used. It was a wonderful thing and I looked forward to seeing our developing baby. The only downside is that the spell isn't advanced enough to determine the sex so Draco and I will not know until I give birth.
Another thing however is that once I was heavily pregnant, I'd likely have to lay in bed due to my short stature and Draco would have to help me out with a lot of things as a result.
For now, Draco and I would wait until I was showing enough, probably when I'm a few months along before telling our friends and family about the great news.
Draco and I were currently in the Drawing Room, waiting for the Pregnancy Healer to arrive. Draco was rubbing my stomach affectionately, like he had been since finding out I was pregnant. He did occasionally kiss my stomach as well, his way of providing luck and love for the growing baby inside me.
I looked up when the Floo flared up and the Pregnancy Healer stepped inside. He looked very friendly and had a polite smile on his face. He has blue eyes, light brown hair and tan skin. He was wearing black framed glasses and a white Healer's coat.
Draco stood up, smiling and introduced himself, shaking the Healer's hand. The Healer began to speak to us, still smiling. "Hello Draco, I am Healer Lee and I will be doing some work to see how your wife is doing and determine how far along she is with her pregnancy." he explained, looking at us both.
I smiled and we got things started. Healer Lee went over to me and after explaining what he'd be doing to determine how far along I was, he began waving his wand in a complicated hand movement with a few incantations. He looked at what the spell said and nodded lightly to himself. "You are about five days along. And the due date will be between January fifteenth and seventeenth of 2006." he said.
Healer Lee went on and explained the do's and don'ts, like not traveling by Portkeys, the symptoms I'd be going through such as morning sickness, cravings, mood swings and much more. Draco listened and was told to help me out while as the months go by. He agreed and we scheduled a new appointment to when I am about four months pregnant.
Once Healer Lee left, Draco went and pulled me into his arms affectionately. I smiled as his arms wrapped around my midsection, his hands resting on my stomach. I rested my hands over his and we relaxed for some time, talking and enjoying each other's company for the rest of the day.
- -Monday, May 23, 2005- -
I groaned softly as I woke up unexpectedly. It was early in the morning and I felt horrible. At first I didn't know why, but seconds later I felt it hit me hard as a brutal wave of nausea hit me and I launched myself out of bed, running straight into the bathroom and collapsed in front of the toilet, vomiting last nights dinner into it. "Morning sickness." I thought, coughing.
I heard footsteps approach me and felt my hair get pulled back gently. I retched as nausea radiated through me again and vomited once more. A hand began rubbing my back in slow, soft circles as I vomited one last time and lifted my head. I could see Draco in my corner vision and I was very thankful that he was so caring.
He helped me stand up and flushed the toilet while I rinsed out my mouth. Once I did that, Draco spoke. "Are you alright, Raven?" he asked softly, looking worried. I nodded, smiling. "It's just morning sickness Draco. Part of being pregnant and will last a little while." I answered. Draco's cheeks flushed pink in embarrassment, making me giggle softly.
He led me back to the bed and had me lay down. "I'll have our house elves prepare you some herbal tea. Healer Lee said it can help with morning sickness." he explained. I nodded, laying back as nausea continued to radiated through me, but not as badly. Draco called for one of the house elves and had them bring some herbal tea for me, which arrived within a few minutes.
I wrinkled my nose at the smell of the tea, my nausea making it seem repulsive than pleasant. With a small thanks, I took the cup, blew gently on the tea and sipped it carefully, not wanting to upset my stomach anymore by taking a large gulp. I felt the bed dip next to me as Draco sat down on it.
Healer Lee had made sure to list the herbal teas safe for me to drink so the house elves knew which ones to make after Draco informed them. I was warned to limit how much herbal tea I drink, which wouldn't be a problem since tea isn't something I drink daily like Draco does.
The tea lessened my nausea after I drank the cup and I felt much better, but I would not be looking forward to being sick again. It was still so early so I went back to sleep with Draco.
A few hours later, I woke up feeling very hungry. I groaned softly and stretched, looking over where Draco was and saw that he wasn't there. The bathroom door was closed so he likely took a shower and would be out in a bit. I got up and dressed myself into a black dress and thigh highs. Draco came out a few minutes later and smiled upon seeing that I was awake. "Well, good morning Raven. How are you feeling?" he asked, smiling.
"Better than I was earlier. Very hungry actually." I responded, throwing myself backwards onto our bed. Draco chuckled and sat down on a nearby chair, putting his shoes on. "Well, we'll head to the dining room and get some breakfast." he said. I sat up and nodded, grabbing my dress shoes and slipping them on with ease.
Breakfast came and went, I had a big meal from hunger and was now tired from eating so much, but also because of being pregnant. I ended up falling asleep in Draco's arms while we sat in the Drawing Room.
When I woke up, I found that Draco had fallen asleep and was snoring softly, much to my amusement. The clock nearby showed that it was early afternoon. With a quiet sigh, I freed myself from Draco's arms and stretched my stiff legs before standing up to walk around. My stomach rumbled softly, but I ignored it, knowing that I didn't need to eat for another hour anyway.
Looking over at Draco, I knew he'd need to wake up or else he'd never be tired tonight. Walking over to him, I gently shook his shoulder and said his name quietly. "Draco, wake up."
His eyes opened and his mouth opened in a wide yawn. "What time is it?" he asked mid-yawn. "Around one in the afternoon." I answered, watching him sit up and stretch, his joints popping rather loudly.
The rest of the day went by quickly with us eating and talking most of the time until we went to bed peacefully, but I was dreading waking up sick again.
- -Friday, July 29, 2005- -
This was unexpected, my brother Leo wanted to come see me and well, I had to act fast and wear a bigger shirt as to hide my stomach since I was developing a baby bump and we still haven't revealed that I was pregnant. I was only 3 months along now.
Draco tossed me one of his shirts for me to wear over my tank top, which landed on my head since I wasn't paying attention, but I giggled loudly while he chuckled in amusement. I slipped it on and Draco checked me over to see if my baby bump was noticeable, which thankfully was hidden thanks to his shirt being so big on me.
We left to the Drawing Room and a few minutes later, Leo arrived through the Floo and greeted me with a hug, and chuckling that I was wearing such an oversized shirt. I rolled my eyes, Leo may have matured since getting married, but he still showed his relaxed, humorous side.
All of us sat down and talked happily, I sat between Draco's legs, his arms wrapped around my midsection. "So Raven, how have things been lately?" Leo asked, grinning. I smiled, excited that he'd one day find out I was pregnant. "Things have been wonderful actually. I am still trying to get a day set up so that all of us, including our friends to all come here for a big meet up. It's been rather hard since everyone is busy." I answered, frowning slightly.
With Harry and Lilia having one kid and now expecting another, it has been rather difficult for them to come. Leo said he could come anytime, same with Mother and Father, but until our friends from Hogwarts could come as well, the plan to announce my pregnancy was being prolonged even more.
Opal and Midna have been hanging out a lot since January and they've been busy and all that, but were eager to come so they were trying to free up some time.
Leo nodded, frowning slightly. "Crow told me recently that he's able to come anytime now, I am as well." he said. I smiled, but that quickly went back to a frown and I sighed softly. "Well, it could be that only our family will come then." I said, leaning back to rest my head on Draco's chest.
"Anyway Leo, how's Annalise and Madeline?" I asked. Leo smiled and answered. "They've both been doing well. Annalise has been handful, but she's fond of me apparently compared to her mother."
Draco snickered softly which got Leo's attention. "What's so funny, Draco?" he asked, grinning. Draco went on and told him about what we talked about how Draco said that if we had a daughter, she'd love Draco more than me. This got Leo laughing, along with me since I still found that amusing.
We soon changed the subject, and despite wearing a larger shirt, Leo did take notice of my stomach being bigger and questioned jokingly if I had gained a few pounds, while I wasn't offended and shook my head, laughing and lying smoothly that I was just bloated, Draco looked a little shocked at the question, considering that most women would be highly offended at questions like that.
The hours went by far too quickly and Leo soon had to go. We hugged and he said that he'll come by anytime if I want him to. With that, he left and Draco and I were alone for the rest of the day.
- -Wednesday, August 24, 2005- -
I was now four months pregnant. Today, Healer Lee would be coming to preform a spell that would let Draco and I see what our baby looked like to far. I was very excited as we waited in the Drawing Room. Healer Lee would be arriving at eleven, which was in less then a minute, but it felt like it was taking forever. Draco looked amused at my excitement as he stood by me, I was laying on the loveseat, my hand on my slightly swollen stomach.
The Floo flared up at last and Healer Lee stepped through. We greeted each other and Healer Lee sat down on the chair offered to him. "Hello Raven, Draco. How are things so far for you both?" he asked.
"Things have been good so far. I have been tired a lot lately, also dealing with food cravings. Draco's been watching over me, which I appreciate." I said first, smiling.
Healer Lee smiled and looked at Draco. "Have you been making sure that she eats enough healthy food, Draco?" he asked. Draco nodded. "Of course, although it has been a bit tricky with her cravings for ice cream." he said, eyeing me, making me giggle softly embarrassment.
With a chuckle, Healer Lee asked a few more questions and went on about what he'd be doing before pulling out his wand. "OK, Raven. I will perform the spell." he said.
I nodded, lifting up my shirt a bit to expose my stomach. Clothes disrupt the spell and cause weird images. I watched as he did a complicated hand movement with an incantation, and after a few seconds an image popped up above my stomach. To my absolute shock, there were two fetuses, not one. "And congrats, you are having twins!" Healer Lee said, beaming.
I heard a thump and looked to see that Draco fell onto his knees in shock. We were having twins! Not one baby, but two! I covered my mouth and laughed in shock and joy. I really couldn't believe it and my vision blurred from tears welling up in my eyes. I really wanted a photo of this. I looked up at Draco.
"Draco, can you get a picture of this?" I asked. He nodded, leaving the room and came back a few moment later, Healer Lee smiled and stepped to the side to allow Draco to get a picture. With a flash, the camera got the photo. "I'll make sure that it's developed soon, Raven" he said, putting the camera down.
"Thank you so much." I beamed. Healer Lee talked to us and left. I smiled at Draco in excitement. "Twins, Draco." I said in excitement. He grinned widely, pulling me into a hug. "We can tell my family now, Draco." I said, looking at him happily.
"What about our friends?" he asked, looking down at me. I sighed softly. "I doubt they'll all be able to come, but I'll ask them again." I said, watching as Draco rubbed my stomach softly. He nodded, kissing the top of my head.
"When should we tell everyone?" he asked. "In two days." I confirmed. Draco nodded and we talked for a bit until lunch came. I immediately asked for ice cream since I've been having major cravings for it lately, much to Draco's amusement. He did however, make me eat something healthy later on to make up for all the ice cream I eat.
As I ate a large bowl of vanilla, strawberry and chocolate ice cream, Draco and I planned the time for when my parents and brothers would come. "Maybe near dinner time? They could come around four o'clock and stay. We already know how I'm going to reveal my pregnancy to them." I suggested, eating a spoonful of ice cream.
Draco looked thoughtful as he ate. "That would work, but you'll have to confirm with them if it's the right time." he pointed out.
I nodded. "Alright then."
- -Friday, August 26, 2005- -
Today was the day. I would announce my pregnancy to Mother, Father, Leo and Crow. My friends couldn't come today, but they all agreed to come on September fifth so that was exciting. Draco had gotten the photo of the twins developed so I had it in a frame now, a copy was made so I could show everyone. I was currently with Draco in our bedroom, I was wearing an outfit consisting of tank top and leggings. I haven't yet put on the oversized sweater as I couldn't find it yet.
Draco was grinning as I searched for a sweater to put on. It had to be a thin one since it was summer after all. After digging around, I finally found one and pulled it out. It was just big enough to hide my pregnant belly. I slipped it on and looked at my mirror before brushing my out my hair so that it was neat again.
I heard chuckling and looked over at Draco, who was looking amused. "And what is so funny?" I asked, putting my hands on my hips, smiling. He smiled innocently, looking at me. "Seeing you wear a sweater during summer when it's warm outside." he answered, chuckling again.
I rolled my eyes and walked over to Draco, pinning him down onto the bed playfully. He grunted, looking at me with wide eyes while I just smiled and laid down next to him. "Playful are we?" he teased after recovering from being pinned, adjusting his position to lay on his side. I giggled, nodding. "I'm just full of excitement is all."
He smiled and without warning, he lunged at me, attacking my sides with his hands and tickling me. I squealed loudly, laughing and squirming as he tickled me. "Want me to stop, Raven?" he asked, grinning widely.
"Yes, please stop!" I begged, laughing, my foot hitting his leg. He grunted in response to the unintentional kick and stopped, letting me catch me breath from laughing so much. I felt my sweater and tank top be lifted just a bit to expose my stomach so I looked down and watched in awe as Draco kissed it softly. "I can't wait until the babies are born." he said softly, smiling and lowering my shirts down.
A smile formed on my face at his sweetness. I sat up and snuggled into his side, resting my head on his shoulder while he rubbed my stomach softly. "What do you think their sex will be? Boys or girls or a boy and a girl?" he asked quietly, resting his head on top of mine. "Maybe a boy and a girl. What about you?" I asked.
"Both girls. You know I've always wanted a daughter and having two would be wonderful." He answered, smiling fondly. Smiling as well, I looked at the time. "Well, time flies, we should head to the Drawing Room soon. They said they'd be here around four like I had hoped for and it's nearing that time now."
Draco nodded and we both got up. I adjusted my sweater to make sure it wouldn't expose my stomach, grabbed the spare picture of the twins and followed Draco to the Drawing Room. Good timing as a few minutes later the Floo flared up and one by one Mother, Father, Leo and Crow stepped through, greeting us both happily. I smiled, standing next to Draco as we all went to the loveseats and sat down, talking for a few hours, catching up and laughing.
Leo and Crow both asked why I was wearing a sweater in this weather and I said I gotten cold and I would take it off eventually when I get too warm. Mother sat next to me when we began talking. Ironically, she started asking about when Draco and I would be starting a family, and I unintentionally snorted, receiving a glare from Mother while Draco chuckled.
My only response was, "Soon.." as I internally squealed with excitement.
Dinner soon arrived, a mix of British and Romanian foods. As we ate, I was getting more and more excited to announce my pregnancy so as a result, I was grinning a lot, much to Draco's amusement and my family's confusion.
"What is making you so happy, Raven?" asked Leo, who was smiling. Giggling, I gazed at Leo. "Oh, just something exciting is all." I answered, smiling. He raised an eyebrow, but didn't say anything.
After dinner was over, I waited until everyone but Draco and I were in the Drawing Room. Draco was grinning and knew it was time to announce my pregnancy. We entered the Drawing Room, but I stopped for a moment, "I'm feeling a little too warm in this." I said, taking it off in front of my family, I was facing in a direction where they were getting a side view of me and as I took the sweater off, I heard my mother gasp in shock and crying out, "Raven, are you pregnant?"
Once the offending clothing was off, I could only smile at their shocked faces. I joined Draco at the loveseat. I looked at them and finally announced, "Mother, Father, Leo, Crow, I'm pregnant!"
Mother squealed happily, Father cheered and my brothers could only look in a mix of disbelief and happiness. Mother got up, ran to me and hugged me. "Oh, my daughter is pregnant!"
"How far along are you, Raven?" Crow asked, now smiling and walking over to me with Leo and Father. "I'm four months along." I answered.
"And you didn't tell us when you first found out?" Mother asked, looking offended. I giggled and shook my head. "I wanted to wait. Besides, I wouldn't have found out that I'm carrying twins." I said, smiling.
"TWINS?!" Mother practically shrieked. I nodded, giggling loudly and showing them the photo of the twins. Father congratulated me, Crow considered the announcement wonderful and Leo was looking excited. Leo and Crow both hugged me, both of them having tears in their eyes from joy. I couldn't help but smile at how happy they looked.
They stayed for a few more hours, and Mother gave Draco some tips on helping me out since I was carrying twins. For me, carrying twins would be a bit more harsh since I was a petite girl so she recommended that once I reached seven to eight months of pregnancy, I should rest more often, only walking to keep the blood flowing, to eat or to use the bathroom.
Draco agreed and they later left, allowing us to relax and enjoy ourselves for the rest of the evening until we went to bed, Draco kissing my stomach as a sign of affection toward our unborn twins. I smiled, falling asleep peacefully with Draco holding me in his arms.
- -Monday, September 5, 2005- -
It had been a great day, our friends had come, namely Midna, Opal, Pearl, and Lilia had all arrived, what I didn't expect was Harry and Hermione coming as well, but it was wonderful as I had hoped they'd come too, Ron was busy and well, he and Draco weren't exactly friends still so he rarely showed up. They all had a positive reaction to the announcement and loved the photo of the twins.
With the hangout over, I was fairly exhausted. Draco noticed when I collapsed on the loveseat and fell asleep in an instant. He smiled and shook his head before picking me up, albeit with some difficulty at first, and carried me to our bedroom where he laid me in our bed and gently played with my hair as I slept.
When dinner came, I merely whined that I didn't want to get up so Draco had dinner brought to our bedroom, which I appreciated as I was still quite tired. We ate, although barely talked as I wanted to just sleep for the rest of the night.
I finally got that chance once Draco made me do my usual nightly bathroom routine and he helped me change into my larger nightgown. I was out within minutes upon laying in bed and Draco later joined me in bed several hours later.
- -Friday, October 21, 2005- -
Cravings, while I have had them for a while now, they were beginning to annoy me. Sure, I enjoyed eating ice cream every day, but I hated getting cold after eating a large bowl of the frozen treat. I did get cravings for spicy food and let me tell you, it's amazing with the ice cream. My mouth is cooled easily so eating both foods is pleasant, even if I dislike the cravings now. I definitely will be eating far less ice cream after my pregnancy ends.
And I've lost track at how many times I snapped at Draco from the mood swings I have. I felt awful afterwards as I really didn't have much control over them. Pregnancy hormones are terrible, but Draco seemed to have planned ahead now in case it happens as he doesn't look as shocked when I do snap.
However during my mood swings where I'm crying, he always comes to me and holds me close, whispering gentle things into my ear until I either stop crying or fall asleep. It has grown tougher now as my pregnancy advances, and Draco is watching over me, making sure I'm doing well.
It really warms my heart seeing how supportive he's been. I'm almost twenty-nine weeks along or six months. In only a few months, I'll be giving birth. The only thing I wasn't looking forward to was the pain I'd be in during the process of labor and birth. Who knows how long I'd be in labor for before I'd be ready to give birth.
Lately, I've been feeling the twins kick, which surprised me when I felt it for the first time. Draco was happy when I told him this and he eagerly asked if he could try to see if he could feel them kicking. The first few times there weren't any more kicks, at least when he was around.
Finally, after missing many chances, Draco finally got to feel them kick and he was ecstatic. It was so nice to see him smile so much. Many times after that, he'd feel them kick whenever he was with me and I'd tell him they were kicking.
Draco was still giving me kisses on my stomach, although I eventually pulled him up for a real kiss, which was passionate and loving. He's kissed my stomach more than my lips since getting pregnant, amusing, but honestly I enjoyed real kisses more.
Both of us couldn't wait for the twins to be born.
- -Wednesday, November 9, 2005- -
This was just too adorable. The babies were responding to Draco's voice and moving around. It was rather late into the night, but they were active and I was tired, but unable to sleep because of them.
Draco was rubbing my stomach and smiling as he spoke to them softly. "C'mon you two, stop making your soon to be mother so upset. Let her sleep." he coaxed. I felt them move under his hand, his smile getting bigger as a result. "They like you, Draco." I cooed, smiling fondly.
He laughed softly, moving up and giving me a kiss before wrapping an arm around me, his free hand on my stomach. I rested my head on his shoulder, inhaling his wonderful scent. "You smell like apple pie with vanilla ice cream." I whispered, giggling softly. He chuckled, resting his head on top of mine.
The twins were still moving so Draco continued to speak to them, and they moved again to his voice. I merely yawned loudly and spoke. "Please little ones, I need to sleep. Stop moving so much." I complained, closing my eyes.
Draco sighed as the twins continued to move and he helped me get into a more comfortable sleeping position and let me rest my head on his chest. Sleep was as usual, difficult for me and I did not like it at all.
- -Wednesday, December 21, 2005- -
Laughter echoed in our bedroom. The twins have been kicking more often and just minutes ago, Draco had been resting his head on my swollen stomach and he got kicked by one of them. Draco was currently laying on his side on our bed, clutching his cheek as he laughed hard.
I couldn't stop laughing at the look at his face when he was kicked. It was priceless. Tears brimmed in my eyes from how hard I was laughing. I honestly had no idea how long we laughed, but we were soon trying to catch our breath. Draco rolled onto his back, a grin on his face as he breathed heavily.
"I did not expect that." he breathed, running his hand through his platinum blonde hair. It's gotten a bit long on the top and it made him look so nice. I scooted over to him and played with his soft hair, the silky strands slipping through my fingers and falling back in place. He let out a pleased hum, his eyes closing. Smiling, I kept this up, watching his breathing slow until I knew he fell asleep.
Draco's mood always improved when I played with his hair. I just love how relaxed he looked when I do that. I smiled fondly at his sleeping form and kissed his forehead. He slept for about an hour before waking up.
I was feeling sleepy just from watching Draco sleep and he took notice. With a stretch and a yawn, I laid down as comfortably as I could and closed my eyes. I felt Draco pull a blanket over me gently and he kissed my head. It wasn't even late afternoon, but being kept up at night by the twins meant more naps during the day for me.
Draco woke me up when dinner would be ready in about two hours. Once, again, Draco rested his hand on my stomach. I smiled and put my hand on his, both of us leaning against each other, our sides pressed together.
We began to talk about how close I was to giving birth. Sometime next month between the fifteenth and seventeenth, I'd go into labor and give birth. We were excited to become parents and raise the twins. We already knew what we'd name them depending on their sex when born: Scorpius and Taurus or Lyra and Aurora.
My family and our friends would be coming next month on the thirteenth around eleven in the morning for the baby shower. I wanted it to be when I close to my due date so we planned with everyone and confirmed the day and time.
I was excited to see everyone and enjoy the time we'd all have together as we all wait for the day to come for me have the twins.
- -Friday, January 13, 2006- -
Excitement was what I felt for today. We'd be having my baby shower and everyone would be coming. Opal, Pearl, Midna, Lilia, even Harry and Hermione were coming. Lilia was currently pregnant with her second child and would giving birth in about two months so that was exciting.
Since I was due to give birth at any day now, I had to be careful. The Birthing Room was set up just last week and I could only prepare for the pain I'd be in when I go into labor.
Draco was helping me go down the stairs since I was heavily pregnant. Everyone would be arriving soon. There was going to be food and drinks for us, everyone said they'd have presents for the baby shower. I was personally glad that a bathroom was close to the Drawing Room as I constantly had the urge for the bathroom and it bugged me.
For about two weeks now, I've been laying in bed to rest myself as carrying twins has been rather hard on me and wearing me out. I only ever got up to either keep the blood flow going in my lower body or to use the bathroom. I just eat in the bedroom anyway which was nice at least.
Once I was settled on the loveseat, Draco sat down next to me and placed a gentle kiss to my forehead, a smile on his face. I smiled back and fiddled with my wedding ring out of habit. I took very good care of it and it still sparkled and shined as beautifully as it did on our wedding day.
Rubbing my swollen stomach and feeling one of the twins kick in response to my own amusement, I gazed over at the fireplace eagerly, excited for everyone to arrive. Draco wrapped an arm over my shoulder, scooting closer to me and whispering stuff into my ear that got me giggling softly.
No more than ten minutes later, the Floor began flaring up as one by one my family arrived, then Opal, Midna, Pearl, Lilia, Harry and Hermione arrived as well. I smiled and greeted them all, Mother coming over and hugging me with tears brimming in her eyes. "Oh Raven, I am so happy that you'll be a mother in a few days." she beamed, dabbing her eyes with a handkerchief.
I smiled more, looking at her happily. "I'm happy as well, Mother."
My brothers both hugged me, Leo commenting jokingly that if my stomach go any bigger, I'd probably burst. I laughed and rubbed my swollen stomach. Father hugged me as well, looking happy and proud.
Our friends all talked to us, catching on what we missed since the last time we saw each other. Harry gave me a side hug, congratulating me again.
The house elves popped into the Drawing Room (shocking Hermione) and provided the food and drinks, to which I thanked them happily and they went back to the kitchens. All of us talked, the presents they all brought were opened and they were wonderful.
I spoke to Lilia about her first pregnancy and how she handled everything. We got deep into that conversation for a few hours apparently. Midna and Opal were talking to Draco about something. I started to feel the twins kick so with a grin, I grabbed Lilia's hand and put it on my stomach. She squealed loudly. "Ohh, I can feel them!"
This got everyone's attention, much to my amusement. Draco came over and rested his hand on my stomach, grinning when one of them kicked his hand. He spoke softly to them like he usually did and I smiled at how they moved softly to his voice.
Another hour soon passed. I was watching Draco and Crow talk and while doing so, I felt a cramp go through me, making me groan rather audibly. Both of them looked at me in concern, Draco especially. "Raven, are you alright?" he asked. I nodded, waving it off as intestinal cramps, which strangely felt similar to my menstrual cramps.
The cramps went on for another hour until I suddenly felt a gush of warm liquid soak my panties. My cheeks flushed and I groaned softly in embarrassment. Before I could consider it to be an accident considering that my bladder is squished from being pregnant, a sharp pain radiated through my stomach, making me cry out in pain.
Draco stood up instantly and ran with Mother to me. Mother spotted the wet spot, her eyes indicating thought and her eyes widened. She looked over to Father and said, "Raven's going into labor."
I looked at her in shock. "What?! Oww!" I cried out, my eyes closing tightly in pain as a contraction hit. Crow came over and with Draco's help, they got me to stand. "We need to get her to the Birthing Room immediately! Father, call the Healers now!" called Crow.
Everyone was in a rush, Leo and Mother stayed by me as Crow and Draco helped me go up the stairs. Now I wish I had my baby shower in our bedroom instead of the Drawing Room. Lilia came with and told me to take deep breaths as we got to the room.
Everyone else had to keep their distance once the Healers determine when I am ready to give birth, but they would stand by for until then. Draco would stay by me as I deal with the labor pains and when I start giving birth for I would need the support through the pain.
The moment we entered the Birthing Room, I was changed into special clothes, which was kind of gown with buttons in the breast area that could open to allow me to breastfeed. I groaned loudly from another contraction as Draco and Crow helped me lay in the bed. The pain was bad, but boy was I in for a long ride.
The Healers arrived and Healer Lee was one of them. I smiled at him and the other Healer introduced herself as Anna. She checked me over and said I wasn't ready yet so she'd check in on me in another hour or so. She would be the one to help me give birth while Healer Lee would watch over the process.
Mother stayed in the room, wiping my forehead with a damp washcloth as the pain made me start sweating.
Draco near me, watching me with concern. A particularly sharp contraction hit and I cried out in pain. Draco jumped up instinctively, looking saddened by my pain. He looked up at my mother as he ran his fingers through my hair. "Is there anything to help with the pain?" he asked desperately.
She shook her head. "No. The pain will only go away after she gives birth." she explained. Draco looked crestfallen, his gaze falling to me. I was breathing heavily from the pain. Draco moved over to me and sat on the bed, wrapping an arm around me and gently held me to him. I leaned into his touch, digging my fingers into his shirt so tightly that the fabric would likely tear.
I felt Draco rub my side with his hand in a comforting movement. I whimpered loudly as another contraction went through me. I wanted the pain to stop. How could some witches handle having multiple pregnancies?
Draco held me closer as I continued to go through the pain for another hour. He braided my hair to keep it out of the way as I moaned in pain with each contraction that hit me. Mother continued to wash my face with the washcloth.
Healer Anna checked on me when I began to say that I felt an urge to push and she said I was ready. Draco had to get off the bed as I was prepared to give birth. Mother had to leave as only Draco could stay. He stood next to me, holding my hand for a moment before letting go, otherwise I'd end up squeezing his hand too tight.
She got ready and looked at me. "OK, take a deep breath and push." she ordered. I did so and pushed, tears brimmed in my eyes as pain ripped through my body. I cried out in pain as I pushed. It hurt so much and each time I pushed, the pain got worse. I didn't even hear Anna say that our first baby was crowning.
I nearly screamed when I finally gave birth. "It's a boy!" she announced as the sounds of crying was heard. I looked forward, panting heavily, in her arms was a baby with platinum blonde hair. Draco got the honor of cutting the umbilical cord and he had tears running down his face as he smiled. Anna placed the tiny newborn onto my chest to me see him. His eyes opened as he cried and large silver eyes showed.
I smiled happily, holding my hand to him and he grabbed my finger. The contractions were still here sadly. Healer Lee took the newborn to get him cleaned up and examined to determine his health and all that. We confirmed with Healer Lee that he would be named Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy.
After about ten minutes, Scorpius was deemed healthy, I got to hold him for a minute before Healer Anna checked on me and said, "OK Raven, it's time to push again."
Draco took Scorpius and held him, tears brimming in his eyes again as he looked down at him, smiling happily.
Healer Anna looked at me. "OK Raven, take a deep breath and push!" she said. I began pushing, crying out from the pain. I wanted the birthing to end as I cried out in pain continuously this time.
After what felt like forever, I finally gave one final push. Crying was heard once more. "It's a girl!" she announced. I only caught a glimpse of our newborn before falling back in exhaustion. She had platinum blonde hair as well. The pain was finally gone.
I watched as Draco cut the umbilical cord again and our newborn was placed on my chest as she cried. Her eyes remained closed however. My gaze went to Draco when I heard him let out a choked sob. The look on his face was beautiful: Pure and utter joy was what I saw. Tears falling down his face as he smiled so widely.
His hopes for a daughter was granted and now he was overjoyed. Once again, Healer Lee took her to to the usual cleaning and examining and within a few minutes she was brought back over to me. I held her for a small amount of time before I handed her to Draco and he handed me Scorpius. I smiled at the tiny boy as he rested in my arms.
I heard Draco start sobbing happily as he looked down at our daughter. "She has your eyes, Raven." he sobbed, smiling fondly. I smiled even more. "What shall we name her?" I asked, looking at him.
"Aurora. Her name will be Aurora." he said fondly as she grabbed his finger with her tiny little hand. I nodded, having a little bite of energy now and began unfastening the gown so that I could breastfeed Scorpius. He latched on easily and began feeding. Draco looked up, noticing and handed Aurora to me. "Why don't you feed her as well." he said and I took her.
She started feeding as well, her eyes open and looking straight at me. I smiled when I saw that she indeed did have my eyes. They were emerald green, just like mine.
Looking over at Draco, I smiled happily. "What do you think of them, Draco?" I asked. He only said this, "Perfect, absolutely perfect."
Aurora and Scorpius fed for a little bit before stopping and going to sleep. I myself was exhausted and ready to sleep for days. Healer Lee and Healer Anna did some work and told me that I'd be on bed rest for the next six weeks to let my body recover from the birth.
Draco told me that he'd make sure to take care of the newborns until I was recovered. I smiled and nodded, yawning. I knew he'd be watching me like a hawk during my time of rest. He'd be the one to wake up at night when the newborns cry so I'd be able to sleep.
I was told about what would be happening to my body as it goes back to it's original state before getting pregnant. Mother came in with everyone else and said she wanted to stay by and make sure I'd do OK during this, but I told her just to let Draco know what to do for me. She agreed, albeit reluctantly since she was worried, like any mother would be.
Mother went ahead and told Draco everything and she told us both that she'd check in on us for the next few weeks while I recovered. Our friends admired Scorpius and Aurora and congratulated us on becoming parents.
Since I was exhausted and Draco wanted to take care of me, everyone except for my family would be leaving. I fell asleep just minutes before they left. Mother and Draco talked while I slept for a couple hours. I woke up mostly just to eat and went back to sleep for the night.
These upcoming months will be tough with Scorpius and Aurora waking us both up at night, but eventually they'll sleep through the night. For now, I must let myself rest while Draco takes care of the twins until I am recovered enough to aid him in caring for them.
((I will be honest with you guys: I was going to have Raven give birth to twin boys, but when I developed the headcanon that Draco has always wanted a daughter, it just stuck with me so I had to make that last minute change. Any reviews are appreciated.))