A/N: Harry Potter and his world belongs to J.K. Rowling, Warner Brothers and anyone that has received licensing rights. I am grateful she gives us the privilege of playing in her world.
-oOo-
Chapter 17
-oOo-
July 14, 1997
London, England
Susan was shaking with anticipation. In less than an hour, Ron would be Mr. Bones and she would officially be part of a family she adored. Then they would be disappearing for two weeks to Canada. Hannah had laughed at her when she had picked such a 'mundane' place, but she had always wanted to see wild areas where so many magical creatures still roamed free. It was a bit silly, but Ron had agreed, never being out of England himself.
They would spend a few days exploring Quebec, then head out to British Columbia and join a group that would then spend the next week looking for anything they could find in the Rocky Mountains and surrounding area.
Hannah said she was a little envious, since her and Neville didn't really have a chance for a Honeymoon, but Neville was going to make it up to her with a week in Paris while she was gone.
As she looked herself up and down in the mirror, her auntie came up to her, putting her hands on her shoulders. "You look beautiful, Susie. Ron is a lucky man."
Susan smiled. "I think I am the lucky one. Ron is moving in when we get back."
"The suite will be ready. I am also having Tipsy get the nursery furniture out and repaired. No, I don't want you getting pregnant now, but I know what you have to do," her auntie said.
The butterflies in her stomach at the thought of redheaded children running around Grace Hall was a good thing. "I want a big family, auntie."
Her auntie looked a little sad. "I'm sorry I wasn't able to be around at times. I will need to thank Mrs. Abbott again."
Susan leaned her head back so her cheek was touching her aunties. "I know why. I just wished you had been around a little more."
"I know, Susie. I am going to step down as Minister and retire when my term is up. I want to be around for you and Ron and any little ones you have. Grace Hall was once alive with people and joy. I want to see that again," her auntie said.
"I would really like that," she agreed.
Mrs. Weasley came over. She was in the room helping Hannah, Ginny and Hermione get ready. "You look gorgeous. I can see we are blessed to have another beautiful woman join our family."
Susan smiled. She really did like her soon to be mother-in-law, even if she could be a tad overbearing at times. "Thank you, Molly."
"Molly, I really can't thank you enough for all the help you have put in for today," her auntie said.
"It's my pleasure. Only one more to go now, and that will probably be next year," Molly said, looking relieved and a little sad. The woman was really showing and soon had to sit.
When she was shown out of the room, Mr. Abbott was waiting outside the door. He had gladly agreed when she had asked. She really had grown up at the Abbotts as much as she had here. "You look beautiful, Susan," Mr. Abbott told her.
Susan beamed. "Thank you. I just hope Ron likes it."
"I'm sure he will. Shall we?" he offered, indicating the row of bridesmaids before her. Susan nodded.
When she left her rooms and made it toward the stairs, she could see everyone in the atrium below. There were close to a hundred and fifty people here and Tipsy had to expand the ballroom for the day.
Ron and his family were easy to find. They sat up front. About thirty other redheads were behind them, all extended family members. In the second row, next to the twins, was Lavender, her mother and Charlie. What really caught Susan's attention was the number of pregnant women. Susan knew that would probably be her within a year, but she wasn't as scared of that. She wanted to finish school. She wanted some type of career, but she wanted children. She wasn't sure if it was the covenant or not, but she wanted a big family.
At the bottom of the stairs, Ron stood tall in a very nice set of groom robes. Next to him stood Arthur, Harry, Neville and his brother Bill. Ron's mouth opened when he saw her, and she had to stifle her giggle. Apparently, he liked what he saw. Hopefully he liked what was underneath later too...
Mr. Abbott stopped her before Ron. He was to act her guardian and representative today while auntie did their binding. "Heiress Susan Anna Bones is presented to her consort-to-be," Mr. Abbott said. "Do you accept the bride?"
Arthur bowed. "The House of Weasley accepts the Heiress Bones and presents Ronald Bilius Weasley, son of House Weasley, to be consort Bones and husband to the Heiress Bones."
Mr. Abbott returned the bow. "On behalf of House Bones, I accept your permission to transfer Mr. Weasley to be consort of House Bones and to accept the name of the Master Bones.
"House Weasley is honoured to accept the title and the binding of the lesser line of Weasley to our sixth son. The elder line of Weasley, through our first son and myself, pledges its alliance and loyalty. May Nimuea and the gods bless this union," Arthur stated.
"May Nimuea and the gods accept your blessing," Mr. Abbot agreed.
With that, her hand was offered towards Ron. Ron put his hand below Mr. Abbotts. Arthur put his hand over hers. "As agreed, so mote it be," both men said. She felt the tingle of magic as the men's hands were removed and Ron took her hand. He shivered a little as it recognized the magically dominant line would now be hers.
Ron gave her a big smile. She could see how much he cared for her and her fears he would not like this went away. She knew Ron had agreed to it, but it was very uncommon for a wizard to give up his family name like that. It also severed the direct ties to the male blood of the family, meaning he and none of his decedents could be in line to be heirs of the Weasleys unless all other heirs were deceased.
Mr. Abbott and Arthur backed away and joined their families. Auntie stepped up and onto the stair above them. Ron gently turned her so they were facing her auntie. Auntie Amelia had a very solemn look on her face. "To all those present today, Susan Anna Bones and Ronald Billius Weasley have agreed to enter the bonds of marriage, as presented before magic and those present. As also agreed, the House of Bones shall accept Ronald Billius Weasley as consort and blood-tied of the blood on Bones. Are there any objections before I begin the hand fasting?"
Susan tried not to smile when everyone was quiet. Her auntie took out the white cloth. Unlike with the Potters or Longbottoms, the embroidery was silver with burgundy and spirulina blue. These were signs of the bonds that Ron would accept and would ensure her line would be dominant.
Without any hesitation, Ron put their hands onto the clothe before her auntie could say anything. That was sometimes the difference between a Gryffindor and a Hufflepuff. They tended to just charge in.
Her auntie's lips curled into a smile for just a moment before she was solemn again. "Presented to the couple is the binding cloth. By placing your hands on this, you acknowledge your willingness to pledge each other you're ever lasting fidelity, support, companionship and love. You also accept the severing of Ronald from the line of succession to the Weasley's and the burden of giving heirs to the House of Bones. In turn, the Bones accept the gift of Weasley magic to strengthen our line and to protect the consort Bones."
Auntie pulled up the half closest to her and wrapped it around her hands. Susan felt the magic already building up. Her nerves grew again. Ron could still pull out. Instead, he gave her an encouraging smile. "On this layer is woven the magic of the House of Bones. Ronald Billius Weasley, are you willing to let your magic merge with your wife? You pledge to be consort and uphold the values, blood and privileges of the House of Bones? You pledge to be Master Bones, master of the House of Bones, through hardship and good, through sickness and health and whether you are poor or rich? As Master of the Bones, you pledge to give your seed to provide heirs?"
"I do," Ron said with no hesitation. The magic that Susan knew so well reached out, wrapping around Ron's. The silver runes took on a blueish hue, and the blue runes grew bright. She took in a sharp breath as she felt her magic wrap around the bond she felt between Ron and his family. She knew it wouldn't break, but it would change. The fact Ron was willing to do this had her feeling very emotional.
Auntie pulled the other layer over them. "On this layer is woven the magic of House Weasley." It was the symbol that her magic would be the base of their bond. The magic that was base would be dominant. "Susan Anna Bones, are you willing to let the magic of your consort and husband to merge with yours and strengthen your line? You pledge to uphold the values of your bloodline, as well as that of your consorts? You pledge to be Lady of your house, to protect and provide for all those under you, through hardship and good, through sickness and health and whether you are poor or rich? As Lady of House Bones, you pledge to provide heirs by seed of your consort?"
"I do," she said, only hesitating a little. The burgundy-coloured runes shown a blood red, next to the bluish glow of the silver runes. When this was done, she would be Lady Bones. Ron would be Master Bones. She would be able to claim her seat from her auntie before she turned nineteen if she so chose. It was a huge step up. Originally, she had thought to claim her title and seat closer to twenty, or later. Auntie didn't mind representing House Bones. Now she would probably claim her seat right out of Hogwarts next year.
"What is made by magic cannot be sundered. If ever magic accepts, other magic can be added to the bond, but none shall come before this," Auntie Ami said, touching her wand to the cloth and clearly saying, "Hanc obligationem magia benedicat."
Whether she was ready or not, her magic was. It pulsed out, pulling on the magic of the Weasleys' and absorbing the power Ron brought to their line. The pull to his family changed. He was no longer an heir to that house, but he was still family. The bonds of blood were hard to break. The runes slowly faded, both of their magics accepting each other.
"Master Bones, you may kiss your bride," Auntie said with a smile.
Ron pulled her in. Susan giggling before his lips met hers. The pull of their magics, with the pull of the Covenants, had her wrapping her arms around him and diving her tongue into his mouth the second it opened. His tongue met hers. The heat he brought out in her responded almost immediately. It was a stroke on her core to feel Ron's family magic. It was immediately obvious why the Weasley's were known for so many children. She wanted to jump him here.
There was clapping and her brothers in laws whistled loudly. This brought her out of her hormone induced haze long enough to pull back. Ron's eyes were half lidded, and she felt she had to suppress a whimper as she felt him through all their layers of clothes. Merlin! This is too strong, she said half-heartedly in her head.
"Say thank you to your guests then you can disappear for a little bit," her auntie whispered to them. She knew Harry and Lavender had resisted this when they were married here, but she already felt damp.
"Yes, auntie," Susan said.
Ron blinked a few times, the lust in his eyes dropping to a manageable level. "I'm sorry, Madam Bones."
"It's Amelia or auntie now, Ron. I also understand the compulsions from the covenant. Give me an hour and then I can give you an hour," she told them.
They both nodded and turned to the assembled crowd. "I present Lady and Master Bones," Auntie Ami called out.
Susan beamed, like any bride would. Ron led her to the side after taking her down the aisle so they could get a few pictures and allow time for the guests to get into the ball room. Molly and the rest of her new family came up to them. She hugged her mother-in-law, enjoying how she was accepted into Ron's family.
"Thank you, Molly," she said, then hugged her auntie.
"You look so grown up now, Susie," her auntie said.
"I can't thank you enough for doing this," she told her auntie, tears coming to her eyes.
Her auntie sniffed. "I am just proud of you and the boy you found. Are you sure you both want to live here?"
Susan stepped back. "I want to see Grace Hall full of Bones again," she told her.
Auntie Ami smiled. "I do too. Now, get your pictures and then greet your guests."
Hannah was next to hug her. "Congratulations, Lady Bones."
"Thanks, Lady Longbottom," she said. Hannah chuckled before pulling back. She looked to Ron, "You better take care of her, or you'll regret it."
"Oi! I plan to treat her like a princess," Ron replied.
"You better," Hannah said severely before moving to Ron. "Welcome to the family."
Ron laughed and hugged Hannah. The girl really was Susan's sister.
Harry came up to her next. "I always wanted another sister," Harry said.
She smiled at him. Harry was as good a Weasley as anyone. "That means I have six brothers now," she teased.
"Well, I am the best," he said mack a little smugly, and she laughed. Lavender was now with them and hit his arm. Harry just laughed with Susan.
She chanced a look to Ron and saw her looking at her, a need on his face she hadn't quite seen before. How was she supposed to get through this next little bit? Her magic was responding, and she was feeling ready for him. She had felt that way for months, but they had both resisted the urge because she didn't want to risk being pregnant for her wedding. Speaking of which, the bulge that Lavender had was unmistakable now.
She hugged Lavender, a girl she never really knew until a year ago. "Congratulations," Lavender told her.
"Thank you. How are you feeling today?" she asked.
Lavender smiled, moving a hand to her stomach. "Well. I'm so glad the morning sickness seems to be over. I thought I felt her this morning."
Susan gave her a broad smile. "Really? That must feel so odd?"
"A little, but it's rather nice too. So, should our little Potter expect a Bones soon?" Lavender asked with a wag to her brow.
"I don't know, but how did you and Harry make it through your reception without ripping each other's clothes off," she asked in a whisper.
Lavender laughed. "I almost didn't. I'll make sure to make a distraction so you and Ron can sneak off."
"You have no idea how much I would love you," Susan said, the feel of Ron's magic growing stronger. She wasn't sure she liked this. Looking at Ron though, she wanted him.
"What about me?" Hannah asked.
"If you help Lav, you'll be my favourite," she told her blonde friend. They both gave her a knowing look.
It wasn't long before the photographer brought them back to the steps. There was about thirty minutes of poses, then they were welcomed into the ballroom. They had their first dance. Talked with friends, family, a dozen or more Wizengamot members that she found were more indistinct as the afternoon wore on. About two hours in, the dinner was over and Lavender came over to Harry. "Dance with me," she told her husband.
"Do I have a choice?" he teased her. Hannah was doing the same with Neville. Auntie was coming up to the next blowhard that wanted their time. The Patils were flirting with a few boys. Hannah made a shooing motion. It took her a moment to realize that this was the distraction as they were shielded from everyone.
"Ron?" she said.
"Yeah, Susie?" he asked. Ron was not in his element in this environment, and it was showing a little. He needed to be out of here as badly as she did.
Grabbing his hand, she ducked down and pulled him out of the chair. "What are you doing?" Ron asked with a little laugh.
She saw the wall and the small button hidden in the trim. "Sneaking out for a little bit."
A smile came to his face. "Thank, Merlin. Have I told you how much I love you today?"
She pressed the button and a small section of the wall opened. She would have to show Ron all these little secret places, but that would have to wait. As soon as they slipped into the small room, she pulled Ron to him and captured his lips. Her new husband caught on right away what she needed. Ron pushed her against a wall. Susan had thought they would have a fun time in her bed tonight. Right now... she was already as wet as she could be when Ron hiked up her skirt and his hand made it between her legs.
She jumped up, wrapping her legs around him. "Take me," she told him.
Ron pulled back. "Here? Are you sure?"
She ground her crotch into his and he groaned. "Ron, I have been trying to control myself for two hours after your magic started to meld with mine. If you don't take me now, I am going to go spare," she growled at him.
"I thought that was just me," he commented before kissing her again. She had to let herself down so Ron could unbuckle his pants. She managed to get her panties off and just throw them before seeing a table. This used to be an old server's room. Sitting on the table, she hiked up her skirt and exposed herself to him. The lust in his eyes had her almost dripping as he came over to her, his long cock ready for her.
Ron took her face in his hands and gently kissed her lips. "You are so beautiful."
Susan whimpered to feel his shaft press along the entire length of her slit. "I love you too. Now make love to me," she told him, wiggling and he shifted so that the head of his cock was just separating her lips. She moaned as he kissed her. His hands ghosted over her breast through her dress before moving to her hips.
She had always been told this would hurt the first time. Instead, she was so wet, and they had fooled around so much over the last eight months, that Ron just slipped in. She whimpered to have him fill her. She felt the stretch but there wasn't any pain from her hymen like Hannah had told her had happened.
"I'm not hurting you, am I?" Ron pulled back just enough to ask.
Ron started to pull out and she hooked her legs around his legs then put her hand on his bare bottom. "It doesn't hurt. Make love to me," she pleaded, feeling her magic reaching for his. Ron kissed her. Susan moaned into his mouth as he moved and she felt his entire length in her. It took a moment or two for them to find a good rhythm, but when they did, it was shots of pleasure that ran from her core all the way up her spine every time his crotch hit her nub.
She buried her head into his neck, sucking on it to keep from crying out. She didn't think anyone would hear them from in here, but she didn't want to chance it either. Ron grunted as he went faster. Susan cried out as she felt close to an orgasm. When Ron jammed into her a little harder than before, she felt him pulse and lost it.
It was a few minutes before she came down. Ron had a rather goofy smile as he was still in her. "Merlin, Susie," he said rather breathlessly.
She giggled, before putting her head on his shoulder. "You are doing that again later," she told him.
She heard the smile on his voice, "As you wish, Lady Bones."
She lightly tapped his chest. "Don't ever call me that. I am your wife."
"Sure, Susie," he said, finally pulling out and kissing the side of her head.
She smiled and pulled back, tilting her head and giving him a lingering kiss.
"You ready to go back out?" Ron asked.
"I think I need to be cleaned up a little," she told him, taking her wand out.
The lust Ron had for her came back some. "I don't know, I like seeing you like this."
She didn't think she could blush when they were like this, but her neck and cheeks definitely heated. "I can't go out like this," she told him. She could smell the sex on them. Her dress had big wet spots on the under skirt from both her and Ron. Her knickers were definitely no good to put on again today.
Ron gave her a smirk. "It's kind of sexy," he said.
Her flush deepened. After a moment she said, "If you want me like this tonight or tomorrow, fine. I am not going to go back out to our guests like this."
Ron shrugged, pulling out his wand. "Sure, Susie."
She wasn't sure if she liked the idea of being so messy like that in public, but there was a small part of her that wondered if it would be exciting to hide what they had just done under her dress...
-oOo-
July 31, 1997
Port Isaac, England
Harry had his wand out, ready to start casting curses as Lavender came over to him. Her hand touched his and her other went to his bicep. "Harry, luv, it's alright, it's just a party for you," she said, pushing his wand down. Most of the people there were looking at him or the confetti that was raining down. The last thing he had expected was for a house full of people to be yelling surprise. The poor disco ball was lucky to be the only casualty.
"Merlin, Harry, what do you do when family isn't here?" Fred asked, looking nervously at him.
He blinked. It had been a while since he had had a reaction like that. Having thought they were safe until they had been invaded had caught him off guard. He shook as the adrenaline subsided. "I'm sorry," he said, walking away from the dozen and a half people in their sitting room.
"Harry?" Lavender called after him.
He entered their bedroom, Lavender following him in. "Lav, I just need a few minutes," he told her.
She came to sit next to him on the bed. "I didn't know they were going to do this. I thought everyone was coming over in another hour. My mum just wanted me to get you out of the house so she could set it up."
He let out a long breath. "Lav, it's alright. I'll be fine. It just surprised me."
She moved over so that she could wrap her arms around him. For the first time in a while, he stiffened, before leaning against her.
A moment later, a soft knock came at the door. "Harry?" Rebecca called softly.
"You can come in, mum," Lavender said after a moment.
Rebecca opened the door. After looking at him, she said, "I'm sorry, Harry. Lavender told me you never had a real party before, so I just wanted to give you one like I would throw for Lavender."
Harry sighed. "It's fine, Rebecca."
"Are you sure? I can have everyone else go home," she offered, sounding really apologetic.
"Mum, Harry is just a little jumpy at times. He doesn't take surprises or jump scares well," Lavender explained.
Harry's hand searched for hers and she wove her fingers between his. "Rebecca, it isn't you. I just still get jumpy at times from the way I grew up. I really appreciate what you have done, but can you please not do that again?"
Harry finally looked up and met Rebecca's eyes.
"Sure, Harry. You want to come out or should I send everyone home?" his mother-in-law asked.
"I'll come out," Harry said.
"Mum, we'll be out in just a moment," Lavender told her mum.
"Take all the time you need. But if you are going to be a while, I should put the cake back in the cold box," she said, an uncertain smirk on her face.
"We won't be long," Lavender assured.
Once the door closed, Lavender kissed Harry's cheek. "Are you alright?"
Harry nodded. "I... I didn't mean... Oh, bloody hell. I haven't reacted like that in months. I almost shot a piercing hex at Fred," he said.
"I know you wouldn't have hurt any of them," she said in a soothing voice. Lavender took his face in her hands. Reluctantly, Harry met the expressive light blue hazel eyes he so loved. "It's only been a little over a year since you know. I've seen how jumpy you can be at times with loud noises. Did you know you've been having some nightmares lately?"
"I wasn't trying to worry you," he said. Since they had gone to see Sirius', Remus' and his parents' graves a few weeks ago, he had been having nightmares about it a few times a week. The marriage covenant had distracted him last year. This year, he had a wife. He had a child on the way. He found that he loved Lavender more than he could ever imagine. Seeing the graves brought back that almost everyone else he ever loved was dead.
As though reading his mind, she said, "Harry, I am safe. I love you more than I can tell you most days. You have a house full of people that love you. We aren't going anywhere, and you aren't going to lose any of us again." She kissed his forehead. A tear left his eyes and dripped down her hand.
"It's just... they all died. They were all trying to protect me or around me, and they just died. Your father was killed. So many died because of them. Voldemort and everyone around him wanted to kill me and anyone around me. Lav, I can't lose you or..." he said, trying to fight down his emotions.
"Harry, all those people, the ones that destroyed our families, they are all dead. You-know-who. Peter Pettigrew. The ones that took my father… they are all gone. No one is going to hunt you, or me, or my mum, or Hermione, or the Weasleys. We are all safe," she said in a soft voice. "You don't have to worry about anyone hiding in the shadows."
Harry, feeling the way she cared for him and listening to what she said, couldn't keep his emotions in check. He had always gone from one bad situation to another. For five years in the Magical world, Harry had been in life threatening situations a few times a year. The shadow of an insane dark lord had threatened him, his friends, and the few people he had come to regard as his family. He had barely had time to really start understanding what had happened to him and deal with it when they had all been forced into the covenants.
Lavender pulled him down to her chest and he couldn't hold it in. Harry cried. Lavender just held him. It must have been a good ten minutes before he calmed. "We are all safe," she soothed, running a hand through his hair.
Harry sat up again. Lavender held out a handkerchief. Harry cleaned himself up. "I'm sorry," Harry said to her, feeling embarrassed he had broken down like that. They had been together for about a year now, and he had never done that.
Lavender gave him a look he had never seen before. It was loving and sad. "Harry, we are married. If you need to talk, or cry, or just laugh with me, that is what we do. I love you, Harry James Potter."
Lavender took his face in her hands again and kissed him. It was a short, sweet kiss. "Do you want to go celebrate your birthday or do you want to send everyone home?"
Harry gave a watery smile. "Some cake might be nice," he told her.
She returned his smile and gently kissed him again. "Let me just change my shirt."
Harry nodded. A few minutes later they came back into the main part of the house. People were spread out between the kitchen, the sitting room and the dining room. He stood in the door of the sitting room. Molly and Arthur looked up to him. Soon he met the eyes of Neville, Hermione, Dean, Ron, Fred, George, Angelina and Rebecca. They all looked at him concerned. Harry didn't want them to be that way towards him. "So, I hear there was a birthday party or something?"
George and Fred's faces lit up. "You already got all the streamers," George commented.
"Good thing there are still fireworks," Fred re-joined.
"Oh, and the snaps," George added.
"And the fire whiskey punch. Can't forget the punch," Fred countered.
"I already have some, dear brother," George said holding up a glass. This got a few laughs and things seemed to get back to normal.
Hermione came up to him. "You alright?"
"I am now," he said, letting go of Lavender's hand to hug Hermione. "Happy birthday," Hermione whispered before pulling away.
"Thanks," he said.
Molly went to get up. She looked to be struggling with how large she was now. Harry moved over to her. "You can stay there, Molly. Thank you," Harry said, leaning down to give her a hug.
Molly patted his back. "It's alright, dear. Happy birthday."
As Harry made his rounds and everyone wandered back to the sitting room, his mood improved. Everyone he cared for was here today. Everyone he loved. They were all safe and happy.
-oOo-
August 12, 1997
London, England
"Master Ron," a squeaky voice said, gently shaking his arm.
Ron opened his eyes, looking up at the canopy of the bed he was laying in. There was some light filtering in from the streetlamps outside. Unsure what had woken him, he pulled Susan closer to him. Her head was on his chest and her body pressed against his side. His arm was around her shoulders. Her easy breathing just about lulled him back to sleep within seconds before he felt small hands on his other arm.
"Master Ron," a squeaky whisper came to him.
A huge yawn came to him before he registered that Tipsy was next to him. "What is it?" he asked rather tiredly. Susan shifted and made a cute snort.
"There is a Floo call for you, Master Ron," Tipsy said.
He blinked stupidly for a moment. "What time is it?"
"Just past four," Tipsy replied.
Rather reluctantly, he moved and put Susan's head down on the pillow. After kissing her temple, he followed Tipsy to the atrium. In the fireplace was Bill's head. "Sorry to wake you so early," Bill said, looking a little tired and careworn.
"What's up? You wouldn't call like this if something wasn't right," Ron said, trying to stifle another yawn.
"It's mum. The twins were born last night, but she had to be taken to St. Mungo's," Bill told him. "Fleur and I are heading over soon. I thought you would like to know."
A lot of colour drained from Ron's face. "Is she okay? What about the twins?"
Bill gave an uncertain smile. "The twins are fine. Two girls. Dad hasn't named them yet. I don't know about mum. Dad made it sound pretty bad."
Ron put a hand over his mouth to block the yawn. "I'll be right there. Have you told anyone else?"
"Fred and Charlie. George and Yvonne weren't answering their Floo. Can you get hold of them so we can head to St. Mungo's?"
"Yeah. I can do that. I better tell Harry too," Ron commented.
"Charlie said he would get hold of Harry. Just try George again and then get to St. Mungo's," Bill told him.
"Sure, Bill."
After trying George again and getting no answer, Ron went back upstairs. Susan stirred as he opened the dresser to get some clothes. "Come back to bed?" she offered sleepily.
"I have to go to St. Mungo's," he told her, stripping off his night clothes and reaching for some new underwear.
Susan shot up. "Are you hurt? Is it auntie?"
"Mum had the twins. Something is wrong and she had to go to St. Mungo's," he told her, pulling a shirt over his head.
Susan turned to get her wand and the lights in the room came on. "Give me a few minutes and I will go with you."
"You don't have to, Susie. It's not even four-thirty yet."
The look she gave him told Ron he was being an idiot. "Am I not part of your family?"
"Of course, you are," Ron said, sounding offended that she wouldn't feel that way.
"Then I am going with you. Tipsy," Susan called out.
Tipsy appeared with a very small pop. "The misses Susan called?"
"Yes. Tell auntie that Ron and I went to St. Mungo's. Molly is there and we don't know when we will be back," Susan said, dropping the light nightgown she had on.
"Yes, misses Susan. Should I wake misses Amelia to tell her?"
Susan looked up to Ron. "Amelia won't be able to do anything to help. She should sleep."
Tipsy nodded her head. It was just a few minutes before the fireplace in the atrium was spitting out green flames and they were off to St. Mungo's. In his current state, it was safer to take the Floo than apparate.
Once at St. Mungo's they were pointed towards the second floor. Once off the lift, they were greeted by Fred, Angelina, Ginny, and Harry. "How is mum," Ron asked before anything else.
"We don't know. Dad is there with Bill and Charlie. Rebecca and Fleur are with our new sisters," Fred said, his face pale like Ron's, worry etched all over it.
Angelina rubbed his back. "I'm sure it will be all okay."
Susan put her hand in his as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Anyone get hold of George?"
"Yeah. Yvonne and him snuck off for the week," Fred said. "They wanted a little time together. I was covering the shop. George said they would get the first portkey back from Bermuda, but it might not be until tomorrow."
"We aren't making any judgements," Harry said.
Fred let out a long breath. Ginny looked almost white. "Gin? You okay?"
Ginny, shaking her head, looked up at Ron. As though just realizing he was there, she rushed him. "Oh, Ron." Ginny wrapped her arms around him and started to cry. Ron wrapped his arms around her and looked to Fred.
"Gin was there when mum started to bleed. She had been helping the midwife," Fred said in explanation.
Ron hugged his sister tighter. Susan rubbed his back.
Ron looked to Harry, who looked like he was ready to pass out, or kill someone. Sometimes Ron could never tell with his best mate. "I'm sure it will be fine," Harry tried to assure them.
It was a solemn group that settled into the waiting room. Ginny cried herself to sleep and Ron just held her. Susan was giving him a lovingly concerned look as she took the chair next to them. It was close to seven when Bill and Charlie came back into the waiting room. They all got up.
Bill gave them a small smile. "Mum will be fine, but she's going to be here for a few days," Bill told them.
"Oh, thank Merlin," Ron said, flopping down onto the couch. There were similar exclamations around the room.
Bill went on. "If you want to see our new sisters, we can go into the nursery for a few," he offered.
Ginny moved to Bill. "Mum is really okay?"
"Yeah, Gin. She will be," Bill told her before taking her into a hug. Ginny wrapped her arms around Bill's waist and held him tight as they walked back through the doors.
Susan was still standing. "You want to go see our new sisters?"
Ron gave a nervous smile. "I have no clue what to do around babies."
"Well, only one way to learn," she said, holding out a hand. Ron took it and stood.
The nursery turned out to be an area with a half dozen tall cribs. The only two new-borns were ones that already had locks of red hair. Fleur was in a rocker, one of them to her chest, while Rebecca was walking around with another bundle that had a full head of red hair. "Was I really that small once?" Ron queried.
Susan gave a small laugh. "We all were."
Charlie went over to his wife, who pecked him before handing the small girl over to him. She looked so small against Charlie's burly frame. Fred and Angelina moved over to see who Charlie was holding while Bill took the small bundle from Fleur, who looked very tired, and was starting to look really big. Ron realized that both Rebecca and Fleur were showing. He had a small worry go through him that this could happen to them as well. Or Susan...
"Come on, I want to see them," Susan said.
Ginny was looking at the girl in Bill's arms. They went over to Bill. The small person in his arms looked a little red. Her eyes were closed. Susan looked to be instantly in love with his new sister. "Oh, she is beautiful," Susan cooed.
"I guess I'm not the little sister anymore," Ginny commented, reaching out to touch the hand that was moving a little. The small girl started at the touch before calming down.
"You'll always be our little sister," Bill replied.
"Not what I meant, berk," she said.
Bill chuckled. "You want to hold her?"
"Please," Ginny said, taking the bundle. After a few minutes, Ginny looked up to Susan. "You want her for a few?"
"Yes," Susan said. She took the small girl. Ron watched his wife, instead of his sister. She took the girl so gently, cuddling her close to her chest. A smile like Ron had never seen before came over her face. He knew that the covenants were enacted to make more children. That had been a mostly abstract thought, even though Susan and him were seeming to be doing their best most nights, sometimes a few times a day, to make a small little one themselves.
Seeing Susan's whole being light up when she was holding his sister had him envision her holding their own redheaded child at some point. It was the first time it felt real. Harry and Lavender were the first of their friends to be expecting, and he would be a father some point late November or early December. Neville and Hannah hadn't come out as being pregnant yet. Neither had Fred or George.
Ron moved his hand to run it over the top of his sister's head. Her red hair was soft, like down.
"She is beautiful," Susan said again.
"Yeah, she is."
Looking around, he noticed Harry hadn't moved from the door. Sensing his best mate didn't know what to do, Ron asked, "How do I hold her?"
Bill replied, "Just cuddle her into your arm. Make sure to support her head."
Ron took his sister, a sense of wonder starting to come over him. He was only seventeen and figured children were some distant things you got when you were older. He wondered if Harry was feeling the same. Walking over to Harry, Ron commented, "Can you believe it? This little one grew in my mum."
Harry gave an uncertain smile. "Is this what my child will look like?"
Ron cracked a smirk. "Not unless Lavender is sleeping with a redhead we don't know about."
Harry gave a nervous laugh. "Merlin, I hope not. Lavender hopes our baby will have my green eyes. I rather like Lav's eyes."
"I bet. Is Lav alright?" Ron asked.
"Yeah. She just wasn't feeling that well. The baby does that to her some nights, so I told her to stay home and I would let her know if things got bad," Harry said.
Ron moved a little closer to let Harry have a closer look. "I hope she feels better soon. She won't bite. Well, I am pretty sure she won't."
This time Harry's laugh was more joyful. "Do they even have teeth at this age?"
"No clue," Ron said. "Susan is right though."
"About?" Harry put to him.
"My little sister is beautiful," Ron said, leaning down to kiss her on the forehead.
Harry's smile was much happier. "Yeah. She is. So, are they identical?"
"Let's go find out," Ron said, dragging Harry over to his other sister. It took them a few minutes to decide like they were like the twins, identical.
When dad came in, he looked tired and haggard. Even with that, they all moved to him to present his new daughters. Ron watched as his father kissed them both on the foreheads and a few tears ran down his cheeks. "Your mum should be able to take visitors tomorrow. She's sleeping right now."
"Whatever you need, dad, we are all here," Charlie said for all of them.
"Thank you, Charlie. If you don't mind, I was thinking of taking our two little girls to Molly. You should all go home and get some rest. I'll send an owl or Floo call you later," their dad told them.
"Sure, dad. Want me to help you?" Bill asked as one of the girls was put into his father's arms.
"I would appreciate it. How long has Fleur been asleep?"
"A while now. We were just waiting to hear from you," Bill replied.
His dad looked around. "Thank you all for coming."
Bill and their dad left a few minutes later. Harry gave Rebecca a hug, then shook Charlie's forearm. "I'm going to head back home," Harry told them.
Ron took Harry's forearm. "Thanks for coming, mate."
Harry gave a cheeky grin. "I'm told that is what family does."
"It does," Ron confirmed.
Susan hugged Harry, whispering something to him that had him laugh. "You take care of this one," Harry told him rather seriously.
"I will," Ron replied solemnly.
When he left, Susan moved over to hug him. "You want to hang out for a little bit more?"
Ron shook his head. "Dad will let us know when we can come back. Charlie, Fred, we are going to get going."
"Next time we meet let's do something fun," Fred said, shaking Ron's hand, before pulling him into a one arm hug.
Charlie did the same. After sharing hugs with Rebecca, Angelina and a now awake Fleur, they left to go towards the lifts. Susan leaned against him as the gate closed. "I want kids," she said out of the blue.
Before today he might have balked at that, even knowing that was what they had to do. After a moment, he kissed the top of her head. "I'll give you all the kids you want."
Susan wrapped her arms around him and hugged him. "And if I want five?"
"Well, I am a Weasley. I don't think any of my uncles or aunts have less than four," Ron tried to joke.
Susan giggled. "I really want a big family."
"I know, Susie," Ron said.
Their love making when they got back to Grace Hall had a different feel to it. It was needy, it shared the love they had for each other, but Ron finally felt like he had a goal in life and Susan and their future family was it. He just had to figure out how to support them. Perhaps it was time to finally crack down and pull out some good NEWTS this year.