A/N-If you didn't know by now Harry, Herm, Ron, Fred, George, Dumbledore,
ect don't belong to me. And the rest, with the exception of Chase McG.,
Miranda Snape and any new kids, are actual people. And Chase, Miranda, ect.
are completely made up, out of the mind of Heather Underwood(Fred's girl in
the story) Now, sit back and read. And PLEASE Review! PRETTY PLEASE? WITH
SUGAR ON TOP!
Chapter One: Proposals And Weddings
Alicia and Chase were sitting in a restaurant in downtown London. In a few days they would be attending Harry Potter and Hermione (Riddle*) Granger's wedding. But at the moment that was far away from both their minds. As they sat here on July 27th, Alicia's birthday, she noticed Chase seemed very tense and nervous. She had no clue what was bothering him but she chose not to ask, worried that she would ruin the date.
Chase looked at his watch for the umpteenth time. "Where is that food?" "Calm down. Here it comes now." The waitress sat down their food. They started eating. Actually, Alicia started eating. Chase just nibbled at the edges of his food, which she noticed. Finally she got tired of just sitting there. "What's wrong?"Alicia asked, concerned. Chase jumped, obviously deep in thought about something else. "Nothing's wrong." Chase seemed very jumpy. "Why do you ask?" Alicia shook her head, annoyed."Anyway,"Chase continued, changing the subject,"Have you got any presents yet?" Alicia nodded."Yeah. Stuff from mum and dad mainly. I'm still waiting for yours though..." Looking down at her food she blushed. There was really only one thing Alicia wanted from Chase. Of course he probably wouldn't want to ask her now. Chase had just began working as a Auror with the ministry and Harry. He would probably be too busy for a while to settle down and start a family.
"If you're about done, let's leave. I need to go back to my apartment to pick up your present." Liar, he thought. Her present is right here in my coat pocket. But Alicia agreed and soon they paid and were out the door. It was rainy and colder than usual for London, but that gave Alicia a chance to snuggle up to Chase on the walk home. They reached the apartment and Chase unlocked the door and turned on the lights. He took his coat off and placed it on his hook and took out the box containing the ring. "Mind if I turn the heat on? It's chilly in here." Alicia called to him. "No,"Chase replied as he walked into the room."Go ahead."
She turned around and saw Chase looking more nervous than ever. "Okay. That's it! What in the hell is wrong with you? You've been jumpy all evening, you didn't hardly eat at supper, and you're more nervous now than I've ever seen you. Do you want to break up?" Alicia was near tears, for breaking up was the last thing she wanted. "No. Nothing like that. I love you. Why would I want to break up?" This is going so wrong."I love you too. It's just you're worrying me. What's wrong?"
Chase pulled her over to the couch and made her sit on the couch. "I think it's time for me to give you your present. But first there's something I've been meaning to ask you."He grabbed her hands and held them. Alicia's heart jumped to her throat. Chase reached into his pocket and produced a small box. He handed it to Alicia as she gasped. "I'm not exactly sure how to say this because I've never had to do it before and I hope I won't have to again. Alicia, would you marry me?" Alicia flung her arms around him and kissed him. "I take that is a yes." Alicia nodded. Chase took the box and opened it. He extracted the ring. Alicia held her hand out as he placed the ring on it. They kissed again. "Happy Birthday." Chase told her.
The day of the wedding was upon them before they even really realized it. Cho woke Hermione up just before dawn, and by the looks of things, Cho had been up since very early. She dragged Hermione from bed, forced her to eat some sort of breakfast, and then the two Apparated across town to the Sheridan Hall. It was early still, and Cho and Hermione were greeted by a sleepy looking Rebecca and a dazed looking Alicia. Alicia was struggling to stay awake, and Rebecca was somewhat cranky at first. The four girls went inside quickly...not quite sure how (or where) to begin.
Harry, in the safety of Ron's apartment, felt like throwing up. He hadn't been this nervous in a long time, and Ron, sitting at the table, eating waffles and making small talk, wasn't much comfort to him today. Harry was feeling an odd feeling in the pit of his stomach, the same feeling he had felt so many times before. Only this time it was so much worse than he had ever known it to be before. Ron was laid back and collected as usual, and provided little comfort to him. Ron sat there, eating syrupy waffles, not saying much as Harry sat there, gazing off into space. On one hand he was eager, on the other he was scared. Here he was, now officially eighteen years old, about to get married in front of a large group of friends, teachers, and peers. It was a situation he would've laughed at the prospect of seven years ago, the first time he met Hermione. But now, it all seemed like the most natural thing in the world. Harry exhaled deeply...Ron was so calm! But then, he reasoned, Ron wasn't about to get married. Harry didn't say anything, and watched Ron continue to eat his breakfast. He knew that Bill and the other Weasley brothers would be along soon, and possibly Wood and Chase as well. He was looking forward to seeing everyone: he hadn't seen them since the Death Eater trials.
A few hours and much commotion later, Harry found himself standing alongside Hermione at the front of Sheridan Hall. There were possibly hundreds of people in attendance at this wedding, strangers and friends alike (no one wanted to miss the wedding of the Boy Who Lived.) Harry was no longer scared, nor was he nervous at all. Hermione looked absolutely beautiful, and at first seemed just as nervous as he had. In the crowd, there were tears everywhere. Sirius Black, Severus Snape, Remus Lupin, and David Sands were all crying openly.
Narcissa and Miranda were sniffling and dabbing their eyes as well. Albus Dumbledore stood in a corner quietly, wiping tears every now and then as well: to him, this situation was an odd one. It was hard to believe the man whose wedding he was attending was the same whining and crying baby he had placed on the doorstep so many years ago. It was hard to believe this man was the son of James Potter, a boy who had once struggled to pass Potions, a man who fought for the lives of everyone in the wizarding world. Harry was no longer the scared boy he had once been: he had come so far. Dumbledore watched Harry closely: true to his own father, he was neither scared nor nervous. True to her mother, Hermione was calm and gentle as always. Dumbledore surveyed the others: Sirius Black was hugging Severus Snape. It was an odd thing, watching this two find comfort in each other after all these years. Sirius Black had gotten his day of justice back in April, Dumbledore knew, and could tell the man was now beginning to find peace.
His eyes fell to Severus Snape alone...no longer was he the cold, angry man he had once been. He was wearing more colorful clothes than Dumbledore had ever dreamt him capable of. David Sands was dabbing his eyes as well, and Remus Lupin was crying too. Minerva sat beside him, crying too. Dumbledore sniffled heavily...it was because of Harry Potter that he was alive today. It was because of Harry Potter that all of these people were still alive. Dumbledore cast his eyes to the Weasleys...Arthur and Molly were holding hands and sniffling. Bill and Madison were huddled close, smiling. Fred and George were trying not to get misty eyed. Percy looked completely and totally lost. Ginny looked slightly bitter.
Dumbledore's eyes fell finally to Harry and Hermione once again: they had come so far, overcome so much. When the whole world had been against them, they had believed in each other. Dumbledore wiped another tear away...this was starting to get to him.
"Do you, Hermione Granger, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?" the minute wizard asked. Hermione went numb suddenly...this was it. There was only one thing to say, and she said it: "I do." Hermione almost melted into tears right then and there. But she remained strong, and remained composed. She smiled softly, lovingly, at Harry.
"Do you, Harry Potter, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife?" the small wizard asked him. Harry looked over to see Ron all out crying, hugging Rebecca close to him. The rest of the bridesmaids were crying and hugging each other. Harry glanced back at Hermione, and smiled softly.
"I do." he said calmly.
"If there is any reason why these two should not wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace." the small wizard said. Both Harry and Hermione held their breath suddenly, praying to God that Ginny Weasley and Michael Leonard remained silent. They glanced at each other, and there was complete and total silence throughout the hall. The small wizard smiled. "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Hermione didn't cry, even when Harry pulled her to him, and kissed her softly. It was official: she was Mrs. Harry Potter. Ohmygodohmygodohmygod...
"We did get a happy ending after all." Harry whispered to her. The reception was festive as well. House elves were walking around passing out food and drinks to anyone who would take them, and Harry noticed that some people were already beginning to get a bit tipsy. Some were still crying. He and Hermione sat together at a table, Mr. and Mrs. Granger and Sirius and Narcissa with them. Mr. Granger had managed somehow to keep from scowling or punching Harry, and Mrs. Granger had burst out crying long ago.
Hermione sat close to Harry, and he to her: neither wanted to leave the side of the other. Sirius, sitting there, remembered Lily and James, so long ago, much the same. Harry looked so like his father now, full grown, tall, healthy, and now happily married. Hermione was truly beautiful, as her mother had been. And she had never looked happier in her life. Sirius smiled softly...directly after the ceremony, Harry and Hermione had changed clothes. Neither seemed fond or formal wear, and they had been more than happy to get back into their own clothes. They had suggested everyone else do the same, and the younger people in attendance complied: the elders remained in suits, skirts, and cloaks.
"I'd like to make a toast." Ron said, standing eventually. Harry and Hermione looked at each other.
"This isn't good." Harry said. Hermione just shook her head. Ron put down his glass of champagne, adjusted his cloak, and cleared his throat.
"And before anyone yells at me, Snape put me up to this." Everyone chuckled. Professor Snape bowed comically at his table, and motioned for Ron to continue. "I remember the first time I met Hermione. And my first thought definitely was not, 'This is Harry's future wife.' It was more like, 'We need weaponry. Quickly.' And when I met Harry, it was pretty much, 'Holy crap, it's Harry Potter.' But as time went on, it became obvious that they were meant for each other. It was little things early on...Hermione put herself on the line to make sure Harry saved the world properly, Harry made sure Hermione didn't get disemboweled." Harry and Hermione laughed...as did everyone else. Because in spite of everything, Ron was right. "But it was more than that: sometimes they'd look at each other, and they could just tell. Harry knew at sixteen that he was going to marry Hermione...that's rare. It's rare to find two people that love each other as much as these two do. It's rare to find two people so totally devoted and in love, who would give their life for the other without hesitation."
Harry felt Hermione take his hand, and give it a squeeze. "More than anything else, they've been there for each other. Through everything...the good, the bad, and the utterly insane. To Harry and Hermione...I love you guys." Everyone toasted, and Ron sat down. More tear wiping ensued.
"When will they stop crying?" Harry wondered aloud. Hermione sighed, and smiled.
Harry went outside an hour later to get some fresh air. He was tired of people hugging him, tired of people walking up to talk to him any time he was momentarily alone with his wife. Harry sighed, and leaned against the railing of the balcony...it was a warm, clear night in London. Harry looked up at the sky momentarily...the moon was bright, and cast an eerie shadow over everything.
"I wonder...if perhaps this is a moment when you wish to be alone. But then I do have impeccable timing." Professor Dumbledore's voice said from behind Harry. Harry glanced back over his shoulder to see Dumbledore standing there, smiling softly. "Deep in thought, Harry?" Harry thought for a moment. "It works in weird ways. All of it. When you're a kid, you think about what life will be like when you grow up. What the woman you marry will be like. Who the girl you spend the rest of your life with will be. You never imagine she's the same girl sitting beside you, watching your every move the entire time you're thinking."
"It does work in mysterious ways, love." Dumbledore said. "Your own parents spent four years hating each other before a simple act of kindness changed all of that." Harry nodded, but didn't ask questions. "You're a lot like your father, Harry, but you're very different as well."
"How so?" Harry asked his former Headmaster.
"You're going to do great things, Harry. Your father settled for a job as an Auror, and never questioned it. He could've been so much more. You'll be more, Harry. You're brilliant. You're brave. You're determined. Your strong." Dumbledore said. "It's time for you to pick up with what your father never could complete. He left you alone in the world, your mother did as well. But you're stronger than your father, more merciful than your mother. You're a wonderful wizard." "So are you, Professor." Harry said. The two of them stood there for a moment...Harry had grown up, Dumbledore realized. He no longer needed guidance, nor that of Sirius or Snape. He had a wife of his own now, and with any hope, he'd have children soon after.
"Potter?" a hoarse voice called. Harry and Dumbledore turned to see Mr. Granger standing in the entranceway. Harry sighed heavily. "Got a minute?" Mr. Granger asked.
"Fight your own battles." Dumbledore said, and he turned and walked quickly back into the reception hall. Harry gulped...Mr. Granger was a very, very large man. Mr. Granger walked silently over to Harry, and stopped before him. Mr. Granger noted Harry's shirt was wrinkled, his hair messy. He sniffled indignantly.
"Potter." he said again. He exhaled. "I never liked you. Not one day in my life passed in which I didn't wish you would die. And just because you're my son-in-law doesn't mean I'll like you now. Just...take care of my little girl, all right?" Before Harry could reply, Mr. Granger turned and walked back into the reception hall. Harry cleared his throat, and saw Hermione standing there after a moment.
"He didn't threaten you again, did he?" she asked him, smiling. Harry shook his head, and motioned her to him. "Getting bored here?" she asked him, sliding her arms around his waist. Harry nodded again, rather playfully this time. "Ready for Egypt?" Harry didn't respond, opting instead to bring his mouth down against hers. He pulled Hermione against him, and she immediately responded to his kiss. She pulled away after a moment. "We can't just...leave. Another hour." she reasoned.
"C'mon, Mione." Harry said, smiling. "We gotta re-populate the earth." Hermione laughed, and playfully punched him in the arm. "Harry...how would that sound to everyone? Leaving because we'd rather have sex than be in the company of friends and family. Real compassionate of us." Hermione told him.
"But...fine." Harry finally agreed.
Ron walked up the steps to the apartment he and Rebecca were going to be sharing. He knocked on the door and heard Rebecca call,"Come in." Ron walked in and set his suitcases down. Rebecca walked into the room. She had her wand with her, obviously she had been rearranging things in the guest bedroom, which was where Ron would sleep. At least for a while. "Hi beautiful", Ron said in greeting. "Hi yourself" Rebecca said, kissing him. "Ready to work?"
They set to work painting Ron's new room and putting his clothes away. The bed was made with clean sheets and clean towels and rags were put in the bathroom. Finally done, they collapsed on the couch tired. "I'm beat. Let's go out for dinner." Rebecca said. Except for moving heavy furniture around, she and Ron had done everything the muggle way: using rollers and brushes to paint, hanging the clothes and towels by hand, and the bed had been made quite slowly, due to pillow fighting.
Ron agreed. "Chinese?" he suggested. Rebecca wrinkled her nose. "How about that new French place down the street? It'd give me a chance to wear that new dress I was telling you about...." Ron agreed quickly. Ron showered and was pulling on a shirt when two owls flew through the window. One was his brother's. The other, a mail delivery owl. "Impeccable timing," he muttered. "Almost done?" he called. "Fifteen minutes" She replied. He sat on the edge of his bed to read the letter from Fred.
In her bathroom, Rebecca was applying the finishing touches on her mascara. "Hell NO!" Rebecca's hand slipped as she heard Ron yell and a black streak formed on her face. She quickly wiped it off, knowing it would have been easier to fix her make-up with magic but she wanted to do this the muggle way, to make it special. Ron ran into her room, hair still damp from his shower, letter in hand. "Owl post....from Fred....Read." Ron handed the letter to her with trembling hands. She read it to herself.
Ron, (And Rebecca if you're there)
Hi. The store is doing great, especially with school starting up again soon. All the kids are coming in after a day of shopping for robes and books and love our stuff. George says to say hey to you. He and Jessica are starting to get serious. We rarely see one without the other and she's always over for dinner. Of course Heather is too, but no one minds either. By the way, speaking of girlfriends, how's Rebecca? Have you asked her yet?
Fred
P.S. Thought you might want to know, Heather and I are engaged.
"What's this about asking me something?" she asked. Ron snatched the letter away from her. "Ummmm...Nothing. I was talking about the part at the bottom. About him and Heather." Shit, Ron thought. Fred really had put that. "SURE!", Rebecca said." It's great they're finally getting together. Now what's this about asking me something?" Ron's face and ears turned bright red, a Weasley trademark. "After supper." Ron told her as he started to leave. Rebecca grabbed his arm. "No way," She argued back , true to her nature.(A/N-The character Rebecca, based on my buddy Rebecca Rogers, is actually this stubborn. She argues with everything!) "You're telling me now or we're NOT going out." Ron rolled his eyes. "You don't give up do you?" Rebecca shook her head and giggled. "Well, I'll just have to ask you now. And we can go out to celebrate our engagement." Rebecca agreed calmly. Ron left and got the ring from his room. As he did this Ron's words sunk into Rebecca. Oh my god....what did he say? She sat on the bed, shocked. "I take it you got the idea of what I'm asking." Ron said as he returned. Rebecca, dazed, nodded. "Is that an answer or do you mean you know what I mean?" Ron asked, nervously. Rebecca thought a moment. She made her decision." Both." she said, looking up at Ron. Ron yelled again. "YES! SHE SAID YES!" After a moment he calmed down. He took the ring out of it's box and put it on her finger. Then they....(Yep, you guessed it) kissed. "Ready for supper?" Ron asked. "Ron!" Rebecca said, sounding surprised. "How can you think of dinner at a time like this? We've got to make plans. We can make plans here and talk over supper. Let's see, we'll need a hall, a caterer, a band,....." Ron cut her off. "And you need to calm down. We are going out to eat." "But...But..." Rebecca tried to argue. "No buts. We are going out to eat. End of story. Now finish getting ready. I want to go out to eat with my fiancee."
A few months later everyone was again in Sheridan Hall. Ron and Rebecca stood at the front of the church, about to be married. "If there is any reason why these two should not wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace." A cry rang out in the church. Everyone turned to see Miranda Snape hurrying out of the hall as quickly and as quietly as she could. carrying her 3 month old daughter, Sabra. The service continued. "Do you, Rebecca Rogers, take Ronald Weasley to be your lawfully wedded husband?" "I do" Rebecca said." And do you, Ronald Weasley, take Rebecca Rogers to be your Lawfully wedded wife?" "I do." "By the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride. Rebecca and Ron leaned in and kissed.
Later at the reception the bride and groom sat together while toasts were being made. Harry stood up to make a toast. I'm dead, Ron thought. "You know it's funny. If someone would have told me that after what happened in September of sixth year that Ron and Becca here would be married I would have laughed and probably turned them into a beetle. But now, looking at them, it seems they're so right for each other. And I have a feeling that before long, as Ron said to me about little Potters, before long there will be little Weasleys all over the place." Everybody laughed except Rebecca, who turned bright red. "That said here's to Ron and Rebecca Weasley."
Later, before Ron and Rebecca left for their honeymoon, or as Harry told Hermione, to repopulate the earth, Rebecca threw the boquet. Alicia caught it. Harry clapped Chase's back. "Looks like you two are next." "Shut up Potter."Chase had known that it would only a matter of time, but he hadn't thought it would be this quick. But sure enough, a few weeks later he was next to Alicia at the altar, getting married.
The next months were full of weddings. There was Holly and Oliver's(A/N- Holly and Oliver Wood-Hollywood-just a little play on words), Lori and Cedric's, Heather and Fred's, Jessica and George's, and then Cho and Percy's. Before anyone noticed it, Summer was there.
*Riddle-Yes, good ole Hermione is related to Voldemort. How, I'm not telling. To find out, go to
members.tripod.com/evilone568/index.html
Some of the parts of this story are taken from future chapters.
Now that you're here, go REVIEW!
Chapter One: Proposals And Weddings
Alicia and Chase were sitting in a restaurant in downtown London. In a few days they would be attending Harry Potter and Hermione (Riddle*) Granger's wedding. But at the moment that was far away from both their minds. As they sat here on July 27th, Alicia's birthday, she noticed Chase seemed very tense and nervous. She had no clue what was bothering him but she chose not to ask, worried that she would ruin the date.
Chase looked at his watch for the umpteenth time. "Where is that food?" "Calm down. Here it comes now." The waitress sat down their food. They started eating. Actually, Alicia started eating. Chase just nibbled at the edges of his food, which she noticed. Finally she got tired of just sitting there. "What's wrong?"Alicia asked, concerned. Chase jumped, obviously deep in thought about something else. "Nothing's wrong." Chase seemed very jumpy. "Why do you ask?" Alicia shook her head, annoyed."Anyway,"Chase continued, changing the subject,"Have you got any presents yet?" Alicia nodded."Yeah. Stuff from mum and dad mainly. I'm still waiting for yours though..." Looking down at her food she blushed. There was really only one thing Alicia wanted from Chase. Of course he probably wouldn't want to ask her now. Chase had just began working as a Auror with the ministry and Harry. He would probably be too busy for a while to settle down and start a family.
"If you're about done, let's leave. I need to go back to my apartment to pick up your present." Liar, he thought. Her present is right here in my coat pocket. But Alicia agreed and soon they paid and were out the door. It was rainy and colder than usual for London, but that gave Alicia a chance to snuggle up to Chase on the walk home. They reached the apartment and Chase unlocked the door and turned on the lights. He took his coat off and placed it on his hook and took out the box containing the ring. "Mind if I turn the heat on? It's chilly in here." Alicia called to him. "No,"Chase replied as he walked into the room."Go ahead."
She turned around and saw Chase looking more nervous than ever. "Okay. That's it! What in the hell is wrong with you? You've been jumpy all evening, you didn't hardly eat at supper, and you're more nervous now than I've ever seen you. Do you want to break up?" Alicia was near tears, for breaking up was the last thing she wanted. "No. Nothing like that. I love you. Why would I want to break up?" This is going so wrong."I love you too. It's just you're worrying me. What's wrong?"
Chase pulled her over to the couch and made her sit on the couch. "I think it's time for me to give you your present. But first there's something I've been meaning to ask you."He grabbed her hands and held them. Alicia's heart jumped to her throat. Chase reached into his pocket and produced a small box. He handed it to Alicia as she gasped. "I'm not exactly sure how to say this because I've never had to do it before and I hope I won't have to again. Alicia, would you marry me?" Alicia flung her arms around him and kissed him. "I take that is a yes." Alicia nodded. Chase took the box and opened it. He extracted the ring. Alicia held her hand out as he placed the ring on it. They kissed again. "Happy Birthday." Chase told her.
The day of the wedding was upon them before they even really realized it. Cho woke Hermione up just before dawn, and by the looks of things, Cho had been up since very early. She dragged Hermione from bed, forced her to eat some sort of breakfast, and then the two Apparated across town to the Sheridan Hall. It was early still, and Cho and Hermione were greeted by a sleepy looking Rebecca and a dazed looking Alicia. Alicia was struggling to stay awake, and Rebecca was somewhat cranky at first. The four girls went inside quickly...not quite sure how (or where) to begin.
Harry, in the safety of Ron's apartment, felt like throwing up. He hadn't been this nervous in a long time, and Ron, sitting at the table, eating waffles and making small talk, wasn't much comfort to him today. Harry was feeling an odd feeling in the pit of his stomach, the same feeling he had felt so many times before. Only this time it was so much worse than he had ever known it to be before. Ron was laid back and collected as usual, and provided little comfort to him. Ron sat there, eating syrupy waffles, not saying much as Harry sat there, gazing off into space. On one hand he was eager, on the other he was scared. Here he was, now officially eighteen years old, about to get married in front of a large group of friends, teachers, and peers. It was a situation he would've laughed at the prospect of seven years ago, the first time he met Hermione. But now, it all seemed like the most natural thing in the world. Harry exhaled deeply...Ron was so calm! But then, he reasoned, Ron wasn't about to get married. Harry didn't say anything, and watched Ron continue to eat his breakfast. He knew that Bill and the other Weasley brothers would be along soon, and possibly Wood and Chase as well. He was looking forward to seeing everyone: he hadn't seen them since the Death Eater trials.
A few hours and much commotion later, Harry found himself standing alongside Hermione at the front of Sheridan Hall. There were possibly hundreds of people in attendance at this wedding, strangers and friends alike (no one wanted to miss the wedding of the Boy Who Lived.) Harry was no longer scared, nor was he nervous at all. Hermione looked absolutely beautiful, and at first seemed just as nervous as he had. In the crowd, there were tears everywhere. Sirius Black, Severus Snape, Remus Lupin, and David Sands were all crying openly.
Narcissa and Miranda were sniffling and dabbing their eyes as well. Albus Dumbledore stood in a corner quietly, wiping tears every now and then as well: to him, this situation was an odd one. It was hard to believe the man whose wedding he was attending was the same whining and crying baby he had placed on the doorstep so many years ago. It was hard to believe this man was the son of James Potter, a boy who had once struggled to pass Potions, a man who fought for the lives of everyone in the wizarding world. Harry was no longer the scared boy he had once been: he had come so far. Dumbledore watched Harry closely: true to his own father, he was neither scared nor nervous. True to her mother, Hermione was calm and gentle as always. Dumbledore surveyed the others: Sirius Black was hugging Severus Snape. It was an odd thing, watching this two find comfort in each other after all these years. Sirius Black had gotten his day of justice back in April, Dumbledore knew, and could tell the man was now beginning to find peace.
His eyes fell to Severus Snape alone...no longer was he the cold, angry man he had once been. He was wearing more colorful clothes than Dumbledore had ever dreamt him capable of. David Sands was dabbing his eyes as well, and Remus Lupin was crying too. Minerva sat beside him, crying too. Dumbledore sniffled heavily...it was because of Harry Potter that he was alive today. It was because of Harry Potter that all of these people were still alive. Dumbledore cast his eyes to the Weasleys...Arthur and Molly were holding hands and sniffling. Bill and Madison were huddled close, smiling. Fred and George were trying not to get misty eyed. Percy looked completely and totally lost. Ginny looked slightly bitter.
Dumbledore's eyes fell finally to Harry and Hermione once again: they had come so far, overcome so much. When the whole world had been against them, they had believed in each other. Dumbledore wiped another tear away...this was starting to get to him.
"Do you, Hermione Granger, take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?" the minute wizard asked. Hermione went numb suddenly...this was it. There was only one thing to say, and she said it: "I do." Hermione almost melted into tears right then and there. But she remained strong, and remained composed. She smiled softly, lovingly, at Harry.
"Do you, Harry Potter, take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife?" the small wizard asked him. Harry looked over to see Ron all out crying, hugging Rebecca close to him. The rest of the bridesmaids were crying and hugging each other. Harry glanced back at Hermione, and smiled softly.
"I do." he said calmly.
"If there is any reason why these two should not wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace." the small wizard said. Both Harry and Hermione held their breath suddenly, praying to God that Ginny Weasley and Michael Leonard remained silent. They glanced at each other, and there was complete and total silence throughout the hall. The small wizard smiled. "I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may kiss the bride." Hermione didn't cry, even when Harry pulled her to him, and kissed her softly. It was official: she was Mrs. Harry Potter. Ohmygodohmygodohmygod...
"We did get a happy ending after all." Harry whispered to her. The reception was festive as well. House elves were walking around passing out food and drinks to anyone who would take them, and Harry noticed that some people were already beginning to get a bit tipsy. Some were still crying. He and Hermione sat together at a table, Mr. and Mrs. Granger and Sirius and Narcissa with them. Mr. Granger had managed somehow to keep from scowling or punching Harry, and Mrs. Granger had burst out crying long ago.
Hermione sat close to Harry, and he to her: neither wanted to leave the side of the other. Sirius, sitting there, remembered Lily and James, so long ago, much the same. Harry looked so like his father now, full grown, tall, healthy, and now happily married. Hermione was truly beautiful, as her mother had been. And she had never looked happier in her life. Sirius smiled softly...directly after the ceremony, Harry and Hermione had changed clothes. Neither seemed fond or formal wear, and they had been more than happy to get back into their own clothes. They had suggested everyone else do the same, and the younger people in attendance complied: the elders remained in suits, skirts, and cloaks.
"I'd like to make a toast." Ron said, standing eventually. Harry and Hermione looked at each other.
"This isn't good." Harry said. Hermione just shook her head. Ron put down his glass of champagne, adjusted his cloak, and cleared his throat.
"And before anyone yells at me, Snape put me up to this." Everyone chuckled. Professor Snape bowed comically at his table, and motioned for Ron to continue. "I remember the first time I met Hermione. And my first thought definitely was not, 'This is Harry's future wife.' It was more like, 'We need weaponry. Quickly.' And when I met Harry, it was pretty much, 'Holy crap, it's Harry Potter.' But as time went on, it became obvious that they were meant for each other. It was little things early on...Hermione put herself on the line to make sure Harry saved the world properly, Harry made sure Hermione didn't get disemboweled." Harry and Hermione laughed...as did everyone else. Because in spite of everything, Ron was right. "But it was more than that: sometimes they'd look at each other, and they could just tell. Harry knew at sixteen that he was going to marry Hermione...that's rare. It's rare to find two people that love each other as much as these two do. It's rare to find two people so totally devoted and in love, who would give their life for the other without hesitation."
Harry felt Hermione take his hand, and give it a squeeze. "More than anything else, they've been there for each other. Through everything...the good, the bad, and the utterly insane. To Harry and Hermione...I love you guys." Everyone toasted, and Ron sat down. More tear wiping ensued.
"When will they stop crying?" Harry wondered aloud. Hermione sighed, and smiled.
Harry went outside an hour later to get some fresh air. He was tired of people hugging him, tired of people walking up to talk to him any time he was momentarily alone with his wife. Harry sighed, and leaned against the railing of the balcony...it was a warm, clear night in London. Harry looked up at the sky momentarily...the moon was bright, and cast an eerie shadow over everything.
"I wonder...if perhaps this is a moment when you wish to be alone. But then I do have impeccable timing." Professor Dumbledore's voice said from behind Harry. Harry glanced back over his shoulder to see Dumbledore standing there, smiling softly. "Deep in thought, Harry?" Harry thought for a moment. "It works in weird ways. All of it. When you're a kid, you think about what life will be like when you grow up. What the woman you marry will be like. Who the girl you spend the rest of your life with will be. You never imagine she's the same girl sitting beside you, watching your every move the entire time you're thinking."
"It does work in mysterious ways, love." Dumbledore said. "Your own parents spent four years hating each other before a simple act of kindness changed all of that." Harry nodded, but didn't ask questions. "You're a lot like your father, Harry, but you're very different as well."
"How so?" Harry asked his former Headmaster.
"You're going to do great things, Harry. Your father settled for a job as an Auror, and never questioned it. He could've been so much more. You'll be more, Harry. You're brilliant. You're brave. You're determined. Your strong." Dumbledore said. "It's time for you to pick up with what your father never could complete. He left you alone in the world, your mother did as well. But you're stronger than your father, more merciful than your mother. You're a wonderful wizard." "So are you, Professor." Harry said. The two of them stood there for a moment...Harry had grown up, Dumbledore realized. He no longer needed guidance, nor that of Sirius or Snape. He had a wife of his own now, and with any hope, he'd have children soon after.
"Potter?" a hoarse voice called. Harry and Dumbledore turned to see Mr. Granger standing in the entranceway. Harry sighed heavily. "Got a minute?" Mr. Granger asked.
"Fight your own battles." Dumbledore said, and he turned and walked quickly back into the reception hall. Harry gulped...Mr. Granger was a very, very large man. Mr. Granger walked silently over to Harry, and stopped before him. Mr. Granger noted Harry's shirt was wrinkled, his hair messy. He sniffled indignantly.
"Potter." he said again. He exhaled. "I never liked you. Not one day in my life passed in which I didn't wish you would die. And just because you're my son-in-law doesn't mean I'll like you now. Just...take care of my little girl, all right?" Before Harry could reply, Mr. Granger turned and walked back into the reception hall. Harry cleared his throat, and saw Hermione standing there after a moment.
"He didn't threaten you again, did he?" she asked him, smiling. Harry shook his head, and motioned her to him. "Getting bored here?" she asked him, sliding her arms around his waist. Harry nodded again, rather playfully this time. "Ready for Egypt?" Harry didn't respond, opting instead to bring his mouth down against hers. He pulled Hermione against him, and she immediately responded to his kiss. She pulled away after a moment. "We can't just...leave. Another hour." she reasoned.
"C'mon, Mione." Harry said, smiling. "We gotta re-populate the earth." Hermione laughed, and playfully punched him in the arm. "Harry...how would that sound to everyone? Leaving because we'd rather have sex than be in the company of friends and family. Real compassionate of us." Hermione told him.
"But...fine." Harry finally agreed.
Ron walked up the steps to the apartment he and Rebecca were going to be sharing. He knocked on the door and heard Rebecca call,"Come in." Ron walked in and set his suitcases down. Rebecca walked into the room. She had her wand with her, obviously she had been rearranging things in the guest bedroom, which was where Ron would sleep. At least for a while. "Hi beautiful", Ron said in greeting. "Hi yourself" Rebecca said, kissing him. "Ready to work?"
They set to work painting Ron's new room and putting his clothes away. The bed was made with clean sheets and clean towels and rags were put in the bathroom. Finally done, they collapsed on the couch tired. "I'm beat. Let's go out for dinner." Rebecca said. Except for moving heavy furniture around, she and Ron had done everything the muggle way: using rollers and brushes to paint, hanging the clothes and towels by hand, and the bed had been made quite slowly, due to pillow fighting.
Ron agreed. "Chinese?" he suggested. Rebecca wrinkled her nose. "How about that new French place down the street? It'd give me a chance to wear that new dress I was telling you about...." Ron agreed quickly. Ron showered and was pulling on a shirt when two owls flew through the window. One was his brother's. The other, a mail delivery owl. "Impeccable timing," he muttered. "Almost done?" he called. "Fifteen minutes" She replied. He sat on the edge of his bed to read the letter from Fred.
In her bathroom, Rebecca was applying the finishing touches on her mascara. "Hell NO!" Rebecca's hand slipped as she heard Ron yell and a black streak formed on her face. She quickly wiped it off, knowing it would have been easier to fix her make-up with magic but she wanted to do this the muggle way, to make it special. Ron ran into her room, hair still damp from his shower, letter in hand. "Owl post....from Fred....Read." Ron handed the letter to her with trembling hands. She read it to herself.
Ron, (And Rebecca if you're there)
Hi. The store is doing great, especially with school starting up again soon. All the kids are coming in after a day of shopping for robes and books and love our stuff. George says to say hey to you. He and Jessica are starting to get serious. We rarely see one without the other and she's always over for dinner. Of course Heather is too, but no one minds either. By the way, speaking of girlfriends, how's Rebecca? Have you asked her yet?
Fred
P.S. Thought you might want to know, Heather and I are engaged.
"What's this about asking me something?" she asked. Ron snatched the letter away from her. "Ummmm...Nothing. I was talking about the part at the bottom. About him and Heather." Shit, Ron thought. Fred really had put that. "SURE!", Rebecca said." It's great they're finally getting together. Now what's this about asking me something?" Ron's face and ears turned bright red, a Weasley trademark. "After supper." Ron told her as he started to leave. Rebecca grabbed his arm. "No way," She argued back , true to her nature.(A/N-The character Rebecca, based on my buddy Rebecca Rogers, is actually this stubborn. She argues with everything!) "You're telling me now or we're NOT going out." Ron rolled his eyes. "You don't give up do you?" Rebecca shook her head and giggled. "Well, I'll just have to ask you now. And we can go out to celebrate our engagement." Rebecca agreed calmly. Ron left and got the ring from his room. As he did this Ron's words sunk into Rebecca. Oh my god....what did he say? She sat on the bed, shocked. "I take it you got the idea of what I'm asking." Ron said as he returned. Rebecca, dazed, nodded. "Is that an answer or do you mean you know what I mean?" Ron asked, nervously. Rebecca thought a moment. She made her decision." Both." she said, looking up at Ron. Ron yelled again. "YES! SHE SAID YES!" After a moment he calmed down. He took the ring out of it's box and put it on her finger. Then they....(Yep, you guessed it) kissed. "Ready for supper?" Ron asked. "Ron!" Rebecca said, sounding surprised. "How can you think of dinner at a time like this? We've got to make plans. We can make plans here and talk over supper. Let's see, we'll need a hall, a caterer, a band,....." Ron cut her off. "And you need to calm down. We are going out to eat." "But...But..." Rebecca tried to argue. "No buts. We are going out to eat. End of story. Now finish getting ready. I want to go out to eat with my fiancee."
A few months later everyone was again in Sheridan Hall. Ron and Rebecca stood at the front of the church, about to be married. "If there is any reason why these two should not wed, speak now, or forever hold your peace." A cry rang out in the church. Everyone turned to see Miranda Snape hurrying out of the hall as quickly and as quietly as she could. carrying her 3 month old daughter, Sabra. The service continued. "Do you, Rebecca Rogers, take Ronald Weasley to be your lawfully wedded husband?" "I do" Rebecca said." And do you, Ronald Weasley, take Rebecca Rogers to be your Lawfully wedded wife?" "I do." "By the power vested in me, I pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride. Rebecca and Ron leaned in and kissed.
Later at the reception the bride and groom sat together while toasts were being made. Harry stood up to make a toast. I'm dead, Ron thought. "You know it's funny. If someone would have told me that after what happened in September of sixth year that Ron and Becca here would be married I would have laughed and probably turned them into a beetle. But now, looking at them, it seems they're so right for each other. And I have a feeling that before long, as Ron said to me about little Potters, before long there will be little Weasleys all over the place." Everybody laughed except Rebecca, who turned bright red. "That said here's to Ron and Rebecca Weasley."
Later, before Ron and Rebecca left for their honeymoon, or as Harry told Hermione, to repopulate the earth, Rebecca threw the boquet. Alicia caught it. Harry clapped Chase's back. "Looks like you two are next." "Shut up Potter."Chase had known that it would only a matter of time, but he hadn't thought it would be this quick. But sure enough, a few weeks later he was next to Alicia at the altar, getting married.
The next months were full of weddings. There was Holly and Oliver's(A/N- Holly and Oliver Wood-Hollywood-just a little play on words), Lori and Cedric's, Heather and Fred's, Jessica and George's, and then Cho and Percy's. Before anyone noticed it, Summer was there.
*Riddle-Yes, good ole Hermione is related to Voldemort. How, I'm not telling. To find out, go to
members.tripod.com/evilone568/index.html
Some of the parts of this story are taken from future chapters.
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