This is an AU story that follows the end of the war. However it doesn't follow how the war ended entirely. As the story unfolds you'll know what I mean by that. It takes place during Eclipse from the Twilight Saga. All characters belong to their respective authors. I don't own anything from Twilight or Harry Potter.
Chapter 1 – Moving
After taking a deep breath, I gently lay Teddy into the bassinet. I smiled at him as he cuddled into his blanket and then grabbed my Dad's mobile phone. Walking into the study, I debated one last time on how to tell my uncle about Mom and Dad. I couldn't tell him everything, but I knew I had to tell him something. Sinking into Papa's favorite chair, I scrolled through Dad's contacts until I found Uncle Charlie's number.
"Wendell, thank God. Do you know how worried I've been?" a male voice asked after the second ring. I took a deep breath at how much Uncle Charlie sounded like Dad and blinked away the tears blurring my vision.
"Is this Charlie Swan?" I asked. I had to be sure it was him before anything could be said.
"Yes. Monica, is that you? What's wrong?" Uncle Charlie asked. I sniffled.
"No, Uncle Charlie, it's Hermione. I know we haven't talked in a while, and I'm truly sorry about that," I said trying to hold back the tears. Taking another deep breath, I closed my eyes. This wasn't a call I'd wanted to make.
"Hermione! I thought you were in boarding school until summer," Uncle Charlie stated. "Is everything okay?"
"No, not at all. I… I didn't want to tell you over a phone call, but you're so far away, and I know I should've told you sooner," I rambled. Damn it, I'm a Gryffindor. Where's my spine at? "Mom and Dad were… there was a gas leak and… they're gone, Uncle Charlie."
"Oh, my God. Are you okay? Do you need anything? I can fly out there if you need me," Uncle Charlie offered, causing me to lose the battle with my tears at his concern for me. Although I felt horrible for lying about how they died, it doesn't change the fact that they are dead. "Hermione?"
"No. There's no reason to fly out here. I mean… I'm so sorry, Uncle Charlie. I should have… this happened almost two years ago," I confessed after regaining my composure.
"That would explain why Wendell hasn't called," Uncle Charlie mumbled. He sighed and then spoke again. "Back to the point, how are you?"
"I don't know," I admitted. Curling into the chair, the pain weighed down on me. "I honestly don't know. I don't know what to do, and I couldn't think of anyone else to call."
"Okay. We'll figure this out, together," Uncle Charlie stated. "Where have you been staying over summer break?"
"The Black house. Sirius Black adopted me… after," I trailed off. Flinching at Papa's name, I sank deeper into his chair.
"Good man," Uncle Charlie's words couldn't have been truer. I wiped a tear from my cheek, only for another to take its place. "Alright, now… I know school isn't a problem."
"He was a good man," I agreed aloud unintentionally then cleared my throat. "The school is down for renovations after a wall collapsed a month ago."
"Was? Hermione, I need the full picture here. I can't help if I don't know what's wrong," Uncle Charlie stated. Smiling sadly as more tears trailed down my face, he sounded so much like Dad it was heartbreaking.
"Sirius died," I swallowed thickly, "in a mugging a few weeks ago," the half-lie tasted sour on my tongue. My heart ached more, but I needed it… something and calling Uncle Charlie felt right. "I'm Mia Black now. My name was changed when I was adopted."
"I'm so sorry, Mia," Uncle Charlie's tone was so sad and sincere that I cried harder, but still silently. "Where are you staying now? If your school is closed, then where are you going to go? Who are you staying with currently?"
"I'm still at the Black house in London. I'm just going to test out of school," I admitted. Although technically Minerva passed my war efforts as course work, I was already a graduate with full honors. I don't have to continue schooling unless I'd like too, and I have enough money that I don't have to work. Hell, there's enough money that my great-grandchildren wouldn't have to work.
"Nonsense, you're too smart for that. You need to finish strong. You're a senior, right?" Uncle Charlie asked. I wasn't sure what he was meaning, but I knew to muggles I would be considered a senior.
"Well, yes, but –"
"No, buts. I'm not going to let you throw away your future. You'll move here," I was stunned into silence at his conviction in this. "Bella lives here now, and it's her senior year as well. I'll fix up the basement for you and that way you two won't have to share a room. There's only one bathroom, so there's no fixing that."
"No, Uncle Charlie, I can't impose on you like that," I argued, looking at Teddy's door. I'm still not sure how he's going to take me being a mother at seventeen.
"Don't be silly. You wouldn't be imposing, Mia. It's unhealthy to be alone, and I know Monica didn't have any family," Uncle Charlie stated. I sighed at the truth of his words. "Besides, I'd love to see you."
"I'm not alone, Uncle Charlie. I have Teddy, Winky, and Kreacher," I stated. I also have Garrett and the twins, but I wasn't going to mention them. "So, I'm not alone."
"Friends aren't the same as family. You're only seventeen, and you need someone to look out for you," Uncle Charlie argued, and I closed my eyes.
"Teddy isn't a friend, he's my son," I stated, tensing up for his reaction.
"Your son?" he whispered, then cleared his throat. "Then he's coming with you."
"Uncle Charlie," I was so relieved I didn't know what to say.
"How old is the boy?" Uncle Charlie asked.
"Six months," I replied. "Winky would be coming with us. She is Teddy's caretaker when I'm not home. She'll need a two-bedroom house to live in."
"We can find a babysitter here, Mia. I doubt she makes enough watching the kid to pay for rent and everything else she'll need," Uncle Charlie sighed. "Besides, she's got her home and family there."
"She has us. Teddy and I are the only family she has. Not in blood, but we are all she has, and it would crush her if we left her here," I argued. "Besides, she lives with us."
"Oh."
"Winky is wonderful. She's very shy, Uncle Charlie," I smiled. "Besides, I'll be paying the rent for her and anything else she requires."
"How would you be able to afford that?" he asked.
"The Blacks are wealthy," I replied. "When Papa passed it was left to me."
"I see. Well okay then, but you'll still stay with me. You need family and stability," he replied. I smiled.
"Of course, Uncle Charlie," I agreed.
"What about Teddy's father?" he wondered. "Is he in the picture? Will he be angry with you taking Teddy so far away?"
"Remus… died a few months after Teddy was born," I choked out. "Wrong place, wrong time."
"Mia, I'm so sorry. Why didn't you call sooner?" Uncle Charlie asked.
"I don't know. I don't know what I'm doing," I admitted. "I'm just trying to keep going."
"Then it's settled. You'll move here. Mr. Evans is trying to rent a house two blocks over. I'll give him a call in the morning. I need your birth certificate, adoption papers, and transcripts so I can enroll you here. When will you be ready to come?" Uncle Charlie asked. I paused. This was happening. I was getting a fresh start away from here and everyone who knows me.
"A week?" I wondered, hopefully.
"Alright, let me know when your flight lands. I'll pick you up. Most flights land in Seattle, but there's a small charter that goes to Port Angeles," Uncle Charlie stated.
"I'll take a cab or something from Seattle. The less I fly the better," I shuttered. Flying to Seattle was going to be bad enough.
"That's right. You hate flying as much as Monica did," Uncle Charlie chuckled. "I'll pick you up from the airport, just make it an early flight. It's been bad at night over there."
"No problem, Uncle Charlie," I replied. I felt lighthearted for the first time in years. The war was over, and I was free. "I love you, Uncle Charlie."
"Love you too, Kiddo," Uncle Charlie replied before hanging up. Gazing out the window, peace wrapped around me like a warm embrace.
"Winky," I called. The tiny house elf appeared before me with a tray of coffee. After she learned that I preferred coffee to tea, she started bringing it instead. I smiled at her. "Thank you."
"Does Mistress require Winky for something?" Winky asked. Kreacher and her are more talkative with me now.
"Yes, we're moving," as soon as the words left my lips, Winky snapped her fingers and everything started floating into boxes. "Teddy and I shall stay at my uncle's house while you stay at another house down the road."
"Has Winky angered Mistress?" Winky asked, shaking. I sat up straighter.
"No, not at all. My uncle is a muggle that doesn't know of the magical world. So, I told him that you are Teddy's caretaker and family. You'll watch him while I'm at school. All my magical possessions will remain with you at that house as well. Can you appear muggle or do I need to get a charm for you?" I asked, touching the emerald and silver pendant resting against my collarbone.
"Winky can appear human, Mistress," Winky stated, sounding offended. I smiled again.
"Good. However, you can't call me mistress there or call Teddy master," I said firmly. Winky almost fell over in shock.
"What is Winky to call you?" She asked.
"Miss Mia and Teddy. That's it. I'd even like it better if you called me Mia," I replied. She looked about to argue how improper that was. "It would displease me greatly if you don't."
"Winky will call you Miss Mia," she agreed instantly. My heart dropped at how terrified she looked, but I knew she wouldn't agree otherwise.
"America is different. If you called me mistress and him master, they would think I was cruel and try to take you and Teddy away," I explained. "I'll need you to act muggle around anyone who isn't me, okay?"
"Winky can do that. No one shall bad talk Miss Mia," Winky stated. Nodding her head and causing her large ears to flop around, I chuckled.
"Thank you. I need you to watch Teddy for me while I do something," I stated. "I might not come home tonight."
"Of course, Miss Mia," Winky nodded again and vanished.
Apparating with a soft crack into an old rundown warehouse on the outskirts of downtown London, I took a moment to steady my breathing. After casting a silent Homenum Revelio to ensure the place was still abandoned, I unlocked the door to my right and entered a large room with modern furniture. The soft red symmetrical sectional was calling my name and lulled me into a light slumber. Garrett will wake me when he returns.
"Love, wake up," Garrett's musical voice drifted through my mind. I sighed. He chuckled. "Would you mind if I joined you then?"
"Hmm," I mumbled, opening my eyes. Garrett's bright red eyes and inhumanly handsome face greeted me. Smiling sleepily, I patted the spot next to me. "You're back."
"I'm here, Love," Garrett whispered, sitting next to me and spreading his arms. I cuddled into his cold embrace. "I sent the twins to the roof so we can talk."
"How did you know I wished to talk?" I wondered. He chuckled again.
"It's daytime and you didn't send word first," he responded. I sighed at how well he knew me after less than two years.
"Muffliato. How would you feel about moving to America?" I asked, refusing to look at him. If they couldn't go, I'd call Uncle Charlie and cancel my trip. Garrett lifted my head with two fingers under my chin.
"I don't blend well in America, Love," Garrett stated. Feeling tears prickling at my eyes again, I tried to turn away from him. He refused to let me. His red eyes locked with mine. "Why?"
"No reason," I mumbled. Garrett sighed as his grip tightened slightly.
"Tell me," he demanded.
"My uncle wants Teddy and me to move in with him. I won't leave without you," I answered with a huff. I hated how much it hurt to say that. Garrett smiled brightly.
"Nonsense. You'll go to America without us," Garrett stated. he released my chin and pulled me into a tight hug. "Lily says your future is there. That's why we came home early. Where in America does your uncle live?"
"Why would she say that?" I wondered. Snuggling closer to his cold, hard body, I relaxed. "He lives in Forks, Washington."
"That's Cullen territory," Garrett stated ignoring my question. I jerked upright to look at him in horror. He pulled me back to his chest. "Calm down, Love. The Cullen's are one of the two 'vegetarian' covens that exist. The area should be pretty safe, although I know you'll still take precautions."
"Of course, I will! That's not the point," I exclaimed, trying to sit up again, but he wasn't budging. Damn vampire strength.
"They travel to different areas, I'm not even sure if they will be in Forks while you are," Garrett tried to calm me. "Relax, Love."
"I hate you sometimes," I grumbled, relaxing back against him. He trailed his fingers through my hair. "The twins are probably getting worried."
"Yeah," I dropped the spell. "Kids."
"Hi, Mommy," the twins said together as they entered the room. They looked about eight now, even though they were only eighteen months old. I wanted to sit up and greet them, but Garrett tightened his grip.
"Mommy's tired and needs to rest," Garrett stated. I glared at him knowing he couldn't see it. He smirked anyway. I could tell by the lifting of his cheek.
"That's okay," Sirius said as he sat beside me. His dark brown hair covering one of his golden eyes. "Don't be mad at Uncle Garrett. He's right. You need to rest more."
"I agree," Lily commented as she sat by my feet. Her long light brown hair brushing against my calf as she got comfortable. I tucked some hair behind her ear. "We'll be together again."
"Garrett?" I questioned. He was rubbing his beard now.
"I guess I forgot to mention something," he stated sheepishly.
"You're a seer?" I asked Lily. Her purple eyes glittered.
"Yup. I am. Your future is in Forks," she stated. I sighed sadly.
"Don't feel bad, Mommy. We know why you're leaving. Uncle Garrett agrees that you need to go. You'll feel better because you can heal there," Sirius added.
"I'm not injured," I told him blocking out the pain as I always do around them. Kids need happiness and love.
"No, you aren't. You hurt. You're sad all the time and sometimes in pain," Sirius argued. My son is an empath. The thought floored me. "You also never feel safe and don't sleep much. Except when Garrett is here."
"A powerful mother equals powerful children," Garrett stated when I looked at him. He loosened his grip enough that I could look up at him fully. "I'll keep them safe."
"Garrett's going to tell us about the Cullen's. So, you'll be ready when you meet them," Lily announced. "Can I have a blood pop now?"
"You know where they are," Garrett laughed. I smiled at Sirius' face as Lily disappeared in a blur to get them. "He prefers animals like the Cullen's."
"I see your diet is still the same," I commented. He tightened his grip. "Not judging. Just stating. If I had an issue with it do you honestly think I'd leave my children in your care or sleep here?"
"Touché, Love," Garrett grumbled, relaxing his hold. Lily came back and sat at my feet again with a dragon blood pop. "Now, onto the Cullen's. They are the second-largest coven."
"Who's the largest?" Sirius asked. He looked excited.
"The Volturi is the largest coven. They are also the ruling coven. If we don't draw attention, they'll leave us be," Garrett stated. "No more interruptions, please." Sirius stuck his tongue out and Lily chuckled. "Carlisle is the leader of the Cullen's although he prefers father. They're more like a family than a coven. Just like us. Esme Cullen is his mate and wife. They got married once and now start off married with their adopted children."
"They have children! Like us?" Sirius asked. Lily shook her head.
"No, that's just what they tell people," Garrett sighed.
"Sorry, no interruptions. I forgot," Sirius apologized.
"Next is Edward, he's a mind reader and the only member without a mate. Then there's Emmett and his mate, Rosalie. Lastly, there's Jasper, he's an empath, and his mate, Alice and she's a seer as well," Garrett explained.
"What's a mate?" Lily asked.
"A couple," Garrett answered. "It's a person you can't live without."
"Wouldn't that make you and Mommy mate's?" Sirius wondered.
"No, we are just friends," I answered. Garrett sighed. "I love both of you very much."
"We love you, Mommy," the twins said together. Garrett informed us of how all the Cullen's were turned and how they chose to live their lives. Until we decided it was time to sleep.
"We'll go to bed so you can talk to Uncle Garrett," Lily stated pulling Sirius with her.
"But, Lily…" Sirius wined as they exited the room.
"Muffliato. Garrett…"
"It's fine, Love. I understand why you wouldn't want me," Garrett smiled at me.
"Do you?" I asked. He simply looked where the twins went and back to me. "You think their father is why?"
"Considering how they came to be…yes," he admitted. "After all, I'm the one that found you."
"You're wrong," I said. I pulled away to look up at him. His eyebrows were furrowed and a frown marred his beautiful face.
"Then why?" he demanded frustrated.
"Because you mean too much to me. I couldn't use you like that and risk losing you," I whispered as I've probably already done with someone else. "I'm not your mate. You know it, and I know it. I love you. I…"
"What if I never find my mate?"
"What happens to me when you do?"
"I hadn't thought of that," he admitted. All traces of his anger drained from him. I cupped his cheek.
"I have, and I wouldn't survive. Mortals don't have mates. Magical creatures do but witches and wizards don't. When I love it's with everything and I don't have enough left to survive that," I whispered. He hugged me close.
"You're right. I love you, and I won't push. Besides you might have a mate out there. After all your future is in Forks," Garrett smiled. I shook my head. "Are you staying tonight?"
"Yes," I agreed. "Winky has Teddy, and I have a long day tomorrow. Once I leave, you'll be able to contact me through the box. I'll try to write daily."
"Try to live a free life. Who will know where you're going?" Garrett asked.
"You, Winky, Kreacher, and I'm not sure who else just yet," I stated sleepily.
"Sleep," Garrett commanded. He started humming a lullaby to me. The spell fell as I slept.
The following morning, I said goodbye and went to the ministry. Everyone stopped what they were doing to stare at me as I passed by them. I ignored them for the most part and made my way to the minister's office. The woman at the desk before his door didn't even look up as I approached. She just stated that Minister Shacklebolt was busy and not seeing guests. When I didn't leave, she glared up at me mouth open to tell me to leave when she realized who was standing in front of her.
"I'm so sorry, Lady Black," she exclaimed in a panic. "I'll let him know you're here."
"Come on in, Lady Black," Kingsley smiled when he opened the door. I entered his office with a smile. "I'm not to be disturbed – no matter who shows up."
"Good morning, Minister Shacklebolt," I stated pleasantly.
"Please, Mia, drop the formalities," Kingsley smiled.
"What don't like the pleasantries?" I wondered.
"Not with friends," he replied. I smiled back at him. "Tell me what you need."
"I'm leaving," I stated. "I need to get my affairs in order for a prolonged absence."
"When? To where?"
"Friday and I can't tell you that," I answered. He frowned. "I'm going to the muggle world with Teddy."
"The vultures are still bothering you?"
"Yes."
"How could I reach you?"
"Kreacher can reach me," I replied.
"I'll get everything in order. I'll miss you," he smiled sadly.
"Me, too," I whispered. I hugged him. "Goodbye for now."
After I left Kingsley, I went to Hogwarts to speak with Minerva. The castle looked sad, and I felt the same way. So many memories came from this place. Good and bad blurred together. Walking into the school, I made my way to the headmistress's office. Minerva was behind her desk going over paperwork. All portraits were now banned from her office.
"Good morning, to what do I owe the pleasure?" Minerva asked.
"I'm leaving with Winky and Teddy," I stated sitting across from her. She put down the papers in her hand.
"For how long?"
"I don't know," I answered honestly. "If you need me. Find Kreacher."
"I'll keep that in mind. I hope you find happiness. You most definitely deserve it," Minerva stated. She was smiling at me. I'm glad she didn't ask where I was going. I hugged her goodbye and exited the castle. Deciding on one final farewell, if he comes that is, I stopped on the front steps.
"Expecto patronum," I whispered the spell. An overgrown silvery-blue wolf appeared translucently before me. "Tell Ferret I wish to see him at Number 12 Grimmauld Place in one hour."
Walking to the apparation point after the wolf left, I went home. Kreacher was there when I appeared and wasn't happy that I hadn't told him about the move. He was directing Winky on what should go with me and what should stay with her at the rent house. I apologized to him and explained how I wanted him to stay here and watch over the properties, as well as keep an ear to the ground. He was my first line of defense from my enemies. He agreed with my thought process.
"We'll have a guest for dinner, possibly," I informed him as I lifted Teddy into my arms. His tiny fist curled into my shirt as his dark brown hair tickled my nose. "Were you a good boy while I was away?"
"Teddy was very good," Winky stated.
"Winky!" Kreacher exclaimed.
"No, she's doing as I told her. My uncle is a muggle and wouldn't understand her calling us mistress and master," I stated interrupting his reprimand.
"I see," he grumbled. "Who will know where you are?"
"Garrett, the twins, and Malfoy," I replied. Kreacher nodded. "No one else is to know and if they ask then don't say a word."
"I would never, besides Polyjuice can't fool me," Kreacher commented. "Mr. Malfoy is here."
"Let him in," I commanded. Kreacher vanished. He reappeared with Draco. I smiled at Draco. He smirked back.
"Long time no see, Princess," Draco stated. I ducked my head. The last time I saw Draco I was sneaking out of his loft after we slept together three weeks ago.
"Sorry," I mumbled.
"It's fine," he waved my apology off. Teddy was leaning for him and I was struggling to hold onto him. "Give the brat here. Look I know I'm handsome and amazing but that's no reason to push away your mum."
"He's missed you," I commented, and he wasn't the only one. I took a deep breath at how awkward this felt. "Winky is fixing dinner."
"Kreacher will you take the brat? Granger and I need to talk in private," Draco stated. I could feel his eyes on me. Kreacher left with Teddy. "You left."
"I…"
"I get it. Sadly," I looked up at him. "You needed to not be alone and I was here. Actually, I was glad to help."
"Malfoy!" I exclaimed feeling my cheeks redden.
"Listen, Princess, everyone feels alone. I'm just glad you came to me and not some stranger," Draco said. He pulled me into a hug. "Just don't ice me like that again."
"Sorry," I cried into his chest. "I'm so sorry."
"It's fine. I wouldn't even mind if you needed me again." I slapped his chest, and he laughed. "What am I here for?"
"We're leaving," his arms tightened almost painful at my whispered admission.
"Because of me? Because of what we did?"
"No!" I looked up into his stormy eyes. "I have an uncle."
"Really?" he asked pulling back in shock.
"Yes, and he's alive because no one knew about him," I said.
"That's probably true," he admitted sadly.
"He's my father's twin. Dad took Mom's last name when they married. I'll be moving in with Uncle Charlie in America. Forks, Washington to be exact," I stated. My home was fortified in defense against any eavesdroppers.
"Who all knows this?" worry etched onto his face.
"Garrett, the twins, you, Winky who will be going with me, and Kreacher," I said.
"You didn't tell McGonagall or Shacklebolt?"
"Only that I'm leaving," I stated. Draco thought about the meaning behind my answer.
"Then why tell me?" It seems he needed to hear it.
"Because you are the only person alive in the magical world that I trust completely," I stated honestly. My former enemy was stunned.
"You…trust me? Are you sure that's wise?" his voice was small. The arrogant, cold, uncaring, aristocrat façade faded from him.
"You know about Garrett and the twins. You know what happened when…" a lump in my throat prevented me from finishing that sentence. He recoiled from me as I spoke. Shame and guilt apparent on his face. I rubbed at my left arm. After clearing my throat, I continued. "I know you, and you know me. Minerva and Kingsley know they can reach me through Kreacher if need be, but you… you can reach me directly."
"How did the twins take you deciding to leave?" he wondered as we sat at the table.
"They already knew. Apparently, Lily is a seer, who remembers her visions," I chuckled. Draco laughed.
"The biggest divination critic has a seer for a daughter," Draco said with a cheeky grin.
"I think smirking suits you better," I chuckled as he laughed. "Sirius is an empath."
"A seer and an empath? Should have known your offspring would be powerful," Draco joked. "I've given Garrett some books to help with their magic. I'll stop in and check on their progress. Maybe even bring wands to them."
"Thank you," I smiled gratefully.
"So, this uncle…does he know?" Draco didn't have to elaborate on what he meant.
"No, he's in the dark. Although I plan to tell him, maybe…possibly… I haven't decided. I never even told Harry or Ron about him," I sighed.
"Not telling him immediately is smart. Then again this is you we're talking about. I'll pack whatever potions you need and make sure you don't have any DSP," Draco stated. I flinched at that horrible reminder but knowing that he would make sure I didn't have that potion with me caused a smile to lift my lips. "There's the smile I love."
"Shut up," I laughed. "but seriously thank you."
"Anytime, Princess. I'll always be here for you. Whether you want me to or not," Draco promised. We ate dinner in silence and after Winky and Kreacher cleared the table, Draco lifted Teddy. "I'll be buying land out there and having a house built on it."
"Draco –"
"No, I'll most likely live there. It's not like I have much of a life here, and I still can't step foot inside the Manor without feeling sick," he stated before I could argue with him. He was right after all.
Draco and I talked until well after the sun went down. He helped me put Teddy to bed and after an hour or so convinced me to let him stay. He slept beside me in the bed, and I slept through the night just like I did when I slept at Garrett's. The following day he stayed with Teddy while I went to Gringotts. I received an untraceable black card that would change my gold into whatever currency I required. Thanking Draco again silently for telling me about the card, I purchased more books and other such things that I might need. When I was finished and returned home, Kreacher and Winky had everything packed. I purchased the ticket to Seattle and texted Uncle Charlie that my flight is to land at four p.m. Thursday.
Uncle Charlie and I talked at least once a day and before my flight on Thursday. He informed me that I would be starting at Forks High School on Monday. All my things had already arrived at his house. I spent most of my remaining time in London with Draco, Teddy, Garrett, and the twins. Draco was teaching them tricks that purebloods learned as children, while Garrett taught me more about the vampire laws. He told me that Carlisle was a doctor, and that was an impressive feat for a vampire. Draco took me to the airport. He gave me a ring to match my pendant.
"Draco, what's this?"
"It's a muggle knowledge ring," he stated as he drove. "It'll help you with your classes, and no it isn't cheating. You didn't grow up learning about American history or their rubbish idea of what English is."
"You couldn't have made it red and gold?" I laughed, touching my necklace as well.
"You look better in Slytherin colors," he commented with a smirk.
"But I'm a Gryffindor," I argued. He just shrugged. "Thank you."
"Put it on any finger you want, it'll readjust to the right size," Draco commented. Remembering something from one of his books he lent me I slid it on my right middle finger. He relaxed and smiled at the placement. "You sure about that Granger?"
"Yes," I answered. I had just signified that the house of Black and the house of Malfoy were united and not through marriage but trust. "If you want, I'll get you one made as well. I'll have Uncle Charlie take me car shopping when I get there."
"It'll be Gryffindor colors, right? No need for the car. I got you one and it'll be at MH tomorrow morning," Draco smirked. I narrowed my eyes at him. We started calling the house Winky would be staying at MH so she would stop freaking out when we called it hers. "Take care of yourself, and the brat. I love you and I'll be there to annoy you again soon."
"Of course, those are the Black family colors now. I love you, too," I replied, kissing him on the cheek and boarding the plane.
The flight to Seattle was horrifying. Winky cared for Teddy while I recited Hogwarts: A History in my head with my eyes squeezed shut. That and slow deep breaths were what kept me from having a panic attack. I almost cried from happiness when the captain announced our descent into Seattle's airport. After disembarking the plane, I searched for Uncle Charlie. Seeing him standing by the baggage claim, I struggled to fight back a sob. He looked exactly like my daddy, if he'd of had a beard. They were the same height with the same chocolate eyes, dark brown hair, and angular jawline.
"Hello, Uncle Charlie," I greeted when we reached him. Teddy giggling in my arms and Winky a few steps behind me holding his car seat. Winky appeared to be an average brown-haired, brown-eyed, woman in her mid-twenties.
"Hey, Kiddo. It's good to see you, and the little guy looks happy," Uncle Charlie commented. "You must be Winky?"
"Yes, Sir, Winky is Winky," Winky stated, shaking his outstretched hand. I waited for Uncle Charlie's reaction.
"I'm Charlie Swan. I got the bag as it came around. I didn't see another one," Uncle Charlie commented. I was glad he didn't say anything about how Winky talks.
"Just the one," I smiled. Teddy wiggled in my grip and cooed at Uncle Charlie.
"Is Teddy short for something?" Uncle Charlie asked.
"He's named after his father and grandfather. Edward Remus Lupin," I stated. "Everyone called Edward Teddy so that's what we started calling him."
"I see," Uncle Charlie smiled. He picked up my bag. "Looks like we are ready to go. Come on, the cruiser is out front."
"You brought a cruiser?" I asked.
"Yeah, I'm Chief of Police in Forks. I thought you knew that," he commented.
"I do. I just didn't think you were going to pick us up in it," I stated. "Teddy's not even a year old and he's already going in the back of a cop car. Silly boy, Marauders bend the rules, not break them."
"Marauders?" Uncle Charlie asked as Winky hooked up his car seat and he put my bag in the trunk. "Is that an English thing I should know about?"
"No, it was a nickname for Remus and his friends. They were rule benders at my boarding school. Nothing bad just the jokesters of the school," I smiled sadly at the memory. "I'm going to make sure he knows his father even though he'll never meet him."
"That's good. So, this Remus guy was good to you?" Uncle Charlie asked. I smiled at him. Winky took Teddy and put him in his seat. "We'll stop for dinner on the way."
"Okay, works for us," I smiled. "And yes, Remus was a very good man. I'll tell you all about him if you'd like."
"Winky ride in back with Teddy so Miss Mia can chat with Mr. Swan," Winky said sliding into the backseat.
"Uh," Uncle Charlie looked confused.
"It takes a bit, but you'll get used to her," I said and go in the passenger seat. Uncle Charlie got in and we took off for Forks.
"How long has she worked for you?" Uncle Charlie asked.
"Well she started with Papa," I said softly.
"Winky misses Lord Black," Winky sighed.
"Lord Black?" Uncle Charlie asked.
"Yes, London still holds titles. If you want to get technical about it, I'm Lady Black now," I chuckled rubbing my left arm. "It's a title I don't want but can't get rid of sadly."
"Won't find any titles like that around here," he commented with a smile.
"Good," I laughed. "Let's keep mine between us."
"Sure thing, Kiddo," Uncle Charlie chuckled. I looked back to check on Teddy and noticed Winky's confused look.
"As I said, Winky, America is different," I commented, knowing she would never ask.
"Yes, Miss Mia did tell Winky that. Winky try to remember that, but still odd. Teddy sleeps. Winky happy," Winky said. "Winky sleep as well, Miss Mia?"
"Of course, I'll wake you when we get there," I smiled, turning back to the road.
"She just asked your permission to sleep," Uncle Charlie commented with a clenched jaw. I slumped.
"Yes. It's an old habit from who had her before Papa saved her," I explained.
"Do I want to know?"
"Probably not. I don't even know the full story. She doesn't talk about it," I answered.
"Winky's her real name, isn't it?"
"Yes."
"She has a car?"
"No, she won't leave the house unless I take her somewhere. She doesn't do well with crowds. They cause her to freak out," I replied. "At least that's what I think you Americans would call it."
"Yeah, that sounds right," he laughed. "Have you tried getting her some help?"
"Yes, and it was a horrible idea. She thought she was bad and started hurting herself. She's more talkative and relaxed now. Besides, Teddy loves her, and she adores him, so I don't mind her staying with me," I explained.
"What about Kreacher? Is he the same way?" Uncle Charlie wondered.
"Kreacher is the Black family butler," I answered. "You said I'll start school on Monday."
"Yeah. You can ride with Bella to school and back until we find you a car," Uncle Charlie stated.
"My car will be at MH tomorrow morning," I announced. "MH is what we are calling the house Winky is going to live in. The Black house in London is called Grimmauld Place."
"The English gotta name for everything?" he joked.
"We do," I laughed, rubbing my left arm again.
"I take it you have your license," he commented.
"Yes, Uncle Charlie. I wouldn't drive without one," I smiled.
"Good, I wouldn't want to arrest my niece," Uncle Charlie laughed.
"No, that would be horrible," I commented, grabbing my necklace. Cold, dark cells are a nerve-wracking thought. "Does Isabella know about us coming?"
"Yeah, she'll be home when we get there. I went ahead and set up your bed and Teddy's crib," Uncle Charlie stated. "I told her about Wendell and Monica, but I figured Teddy would be a pleasant surprise."
"He always is," I chuckled. "Where are you thinking for dinner?"
"A drive-thru?" he offered.
"Hmm, I heard Big Mario's Pizza is good," I commented.
"Pizza is always good," Uncle Charlie agreed with a grin. After we ate, we got back on the road.
"Oh, and before I forget, a friend of mine might stop by to see me, without warning," I stated. Knowing Draco, he would just appear one day.
"That's fine. What does she look like?" Uncle Charlie wondered. Now the fun part.
"He's tall, blond, and will most likely call me 'princess.' When I told him I was moving here, he purchased an old house outside of town and is having it remodeled," I stated, watching the green wilderness pass out the window. This place felt like a haven.
"He?"
"Yes… um, Dad might have mentioned him. His names Draco Malfoy," I answered, hoping Dad hadn't mentioned him.
"You are friends with the boy that bullied you at school?"
"Yes," I sighed. Wishing I had never told Mom and Dad about the bullying, I hoped Uncle Charlie wouldn't hold it against Draco for being such a prat when he was younger.
"So, he bullies you for years and now he buys a house so he can visit you?" Uncle Charlie sounded angry. He then looked amused. "Is this a pull the pigtails to show you like a girl thing?"
"No, it's not like that! It's… complicated," I mumbled, twirling my necklace. "We're very good friends now. I mean he's still an annoying prat at times, but," I stopped, and then decided this was something that I should tell him. "He's Teddy's cousin. After his parents died… Teddy is his only family now."
"Oh," Uncle Charlie's surprise was clear in his tone.
"He also helped me after Teddy was born when I… I became addicted to sleeping pills, and he helped me stop," I admitted, rubbing my left arm. I didn't want to lie to him about everything, and a Dreamless Sleeping Potion was pretty much a sleeping pill.
"Is that why you called?"
"Yes, I don't go near the stuff now, but…" I sighed.
"You needed a change to not fall back," Uncle Charlie suggested. I nodded. "I'm glad you called."
"I'm glad you answered, and I'm gratefully you suggested this," I straightened. "Another thing to keep between us. I don't want Isabella or anyone else here to know."
"That's your choice. Your jewelry looks nice," Uncle Charlie commented.
"I'm more of a red and gold girl, but Draco says I look better in green and silver," I laughed.
"You took his opinion into account when buying them?"
"No, they were gifts from him. It's his way of saying sorry for being a prat when we were younger."
"Really? It seems like an expensive apology," Uncle Charlie disagreed.
"He's an aristocrat," I commented. "What does Isabella do for fun?"
"Most of her time is spent with Edwind," he scoffed. Quirking an eyebrow at him, he sighed. "His name is Edward, and he's her boyfriend. Bella spends almost all of her time with him."
"You don't like him," I stated. Laughing at his snort, I wondered. "Why?"
"After her birthday, they left. He and his family. Bella was…she stopped. Stopped caring, stopped living. She only spoke when asked a direct question. She was a zombie just going through the motions that she had to," he sighed. I flinched. That's how I was when Harry died. I only survived because of Teddy and the twins. "Then they came back after she went to see him in Italy, and it's like they never left. She's pretending that she never woke in the night screaming from the pain. I'd never felt so helpless."
"That's horrible," I agreed. "Why did she go to Italy?"
"She never said. She's grounded. Well, she was. I ungrounded her since you were coming," Uncle Charlie stated. "I hope you like cookouts."
"I don't know. I've never been to one. Are you planning one?" I asked. He was not wanting to talk about Edward anymore.
"Not me. My best friend, Billy, is having one at LaPush Beach," Uncle Charlie answered.
"There's a beach in Forks?"
"No, but the Quileute reservation has one," he laughed. "It'll be fun."
"When is it?"
"Saturday."
"Sure, Winky would you watch Teddy?" I turned to look at her.
"Yes, Miss Mia," Winky smiled.
"Why? They can go too," Uncle Charlie stated. Winky frowned.
"Winky stay at MH," Winky said, shaking.
"It's okay, Winky. He was just offering. You don't have to go," I told her. She stopped shaking. "It's too cold out for Teddy."
"Good point," Uncle Charlie mumbled. He was handling this very well. "We're at MH."
"Oh," I looked out the window at the house. "It looks nice."
"Winky get the bag from the trunk," Winky said.
"Hang on. Those doors only open from the outside."
"That's okay Uncle Charlie. I'll let her out, we can't leave Teddy alone," I stated opening my door. He nodded. Winky and I entered the house. "The basement is for magical things. Everywhere else in the house must be muggle."
"Winky understand," Winky stated. "Miss Mia go rest. Winky unpack."
"Goodnight, Winky," I smiled and went back to the cruiser.
"Will she be okay alone?" Uncle Charlie asked worriedly.
"Yes, she's tougher than she looks. Thank you for not commenting on how she talks," I sighed. "She didn't receive a proper education."
"I don't doubt that," he grumbled. We were at his house in three minutes. "I'll get Teddy. You go meet Bella."
"Hello," I said entering the house. A brown-haired girl was sitting on the couch reading. She jumped and looked up when I spoke. "You must be Isabella."
"Uh, Bella. Hi," Isabella said. She stood and stumbled around a chair to greet me. I helped steady her. "Thanks."
"You don't like Isabella?" I asked already knowing the answer. She shook her head. "I could call you Izzy instead. A girl named Bella tormented me at my old school."
"Izzy is fine," she mumbled. "Why haven't we met before? I mean…"
"I hate flying," I answered with a shrug. "Terrified of it actually."
"The flyover must have been horrible. That explains why Ch-Dad went to Seattle to pick you up," Isabella stated as Uncle Charlie walked in holding Teddy. "You never mentioned a sibling."
"Teddy's my son. I'll make him a bottle. Do you mind holding him while I do?" I asked Uncle Charlie as Teddy started crying.
"Yeah, I'll hold the little guy," Uncle Charlie said picking him up. Teddy stopped crying and reached up to grab Uncle Charlie's face.
"You're a mom?" Isabella asked as she followed me into the kitchen.
"Yes," I answered turning. Uncle Charlie took the bottle from me to feed Teddy himself. "Thank you."
"Yeah," he mumbled going to the living room. We followed him. "Cancel whatever plans you have Saturday. We are going to a cookout at LaPush."
"I don't want to go to a cookout," Isabella pouted like a spoilt child.
"You're going with us. You've ignored your friends since they came back," Uncle Charlie stated. Isabella huffed and went upstairs. "Jake helped her while they were gone, and she hasn't spoken to him since."
"That's wrong. You shouldn't turn your back on the people that help you when you're down," I mumbled unintentionally.
"Like your bully?" Uncle Charlie asked. "Are you sure he doesn't want to be more than friends?"
"Uncle Charlie," I sighed. I took Teddy from him and kissed his temple. "Goodnight."
"Night," he smiled.
After Teddy was burped and changed, I hummed him to sleep. Laying him down, I smiled sadly. Remus and Tonks should be here for this, I thought as tears stung my eyes. I sat on my bed and pushed those thoughts away. I would set up the wards tomorrow while Isabella was at school and Uncle Charlie was at work. Casting a ward to alert me to intruders, I placed a silencing charm on myself to mute my screams. Laying down, I drifted into dreamland where my past filled my nightmares.