Chapter 23
Stupidly, I deleted the edited chapter right as I finished it... *sigh* O well. I've been having a lot of wrist problems - mainly a little lump pressing directly on my muscle ligiment things in my right wrist. Damn tumor. So sorry about the delay, folks. There's a lot of conversation in this chapter, sorry about that, hopefully the length makes up for it. May I present, The Wedding.
Aimée
Hot mouths, lips upon one another, hands grasping for anything to hold on to.
"Love you…" a male voice murmured, stroking the cheek of his companion with his thumb.
"Wish it was you," his companion whispered, kissing him gently, eyes locked on one another.
"Run away with me… please?" the man begged, eyes pleading with his lover.
"You know I can't," his partner sighed, adjusting a wayward piece of hair, "Someday though…"
"You're making a mistake," they had ceased facial contact, instead settling for customary arm's length away.
"I may be, but it's a mistake you have to let me make."
"Are you two in love?"
"Never. My heart belongs to you and only you."
"I'll miss you."
"So will I."
There were over five hundred guests spread across the vast acres of land my parents owned, all seated and looking at me cautiously as I made my way down the aisle to the place I was to stand. Turning around to wait for Cassandra to make her entrance, I noticed Mum sitting up in front on my side of the guests, while Draco was in the very last row, looking as if for all the world he yearned to jump up and leave.
Are you ok?
I'm fine, Harry. Why wouldn't I be?
You look agitated.
Of course I'm agitated. You're making the worst mistake of your life, and you expect me to just sit here and take it?
What would you like me to do, Draco? Tell everyone I've changed my mind and walk out?
I'll come with you.
I know you would. Have you seen Dad?
Isn't he up front with your mother?
No – I don't see him. I'm doing this for him, and he doesn't even bother to show up… wonderful.
He'll show, don't worry.
He'd better, I don't think I could stand having to go through this knowing he's not here to witness it.
Just don't get her pregnant.
How the hell did you come up with that all of the sudden?
Honeymoon starts tonight, doesn't it? Just do yourself a favour and don't get her pregnant.
I don't exactly have a choice in the matter. If she gets pregnant, she gets pregnant.
Just do your best to not get he that way, will you? Please?
I'll try. Why are you all the way back there?
I don't want to sit next to your Mum and hand her hankies during the ceremony, to be honest.
Remus is here for that.
Your Dad isn't going to like that much, is he?
I think he doesn't mind too much anymore. Mum still can't look at Pollux though – it's really quite funny.
I'm sure it is.
Wonder how long it'll take the little bugger to realize all he has to do is look at Mum and he'll get anything he wants?
Knowing your family? He probably already knows.
True.
Just as we finished our conversation, Cassandra suddenly appeared at the beginning of the aisle, fronted by what seemed like an army of bridesmaids and escorts.
She's brought an army, Harry – you may want to watch out. Too much perfume and makeup is bad for one's judgment.
You're going to make sarcastic comments all the way through the ceremony, aren't you?
It'll make things much more interesting, you have to admit.
The music started – a peppy rendition of the typical wedding march, and I once again scanned the crowd, looking for any signs of Dad.
The fourth maid's sort of cute, wouldn't you agree?
Draco…
Not as cute as your arse, though. Probably not as tasty, either.
Thank you for the mental picture.
Anytime, love.
After a long procession of bridesmaids and flower girls finally made their way down the aisle to take their place in various areas around the preacher and I, Cassandra finally made her way down the aisle, escorted by her father, a burly man in his early forties.
I can smell her from here.
Is it a good smell?
Smells like rotten tomatoes.
Don't even think about saying anything, Draco.
Rotten tomatoes, really, because she's rotten and her hair makes her look like a tomato.
You're going to beat this into the ground, aren't you?
You love me for it.
Shut up.
As you wish, gorgeous, handsome, famous, lovely, wonderful, sexy, hot –
That's enough for now.
You mean you don't want to hear anymore?
Maybe during the verses and vows. Those always bore me anyway.
Tsk, tsk. Not paying attention at your own wedding, Harry – shame.
But it's the best sort of shame.
She's by you now – can you smell her?
Now that you mention it…
I saw him grin, even from twenty-five rows back. I nodded towards Cassandra's father – my future father-in-law – and took her by the arm, leading her up before the preacher.
And now, ladies and gents, for the worst part of the afternoon… Draco's voice rang clear in my head.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, honored guests and beloved friends, we gather here today to celebrate the union of Harry James Potter Snape and Cassandra Claire Miller…"
The preacher's dull ramblings and verses became mere dull thunder in my ears as I reached out with my mind, trying desperately to connect it to my Dad's, to at least ask where he was. After several attempts, however, I soon realized I wasn't going to succeed.
I can't find Dad… What if he really misses everything?
I don't think he'd miss it all, Harry. He'll be here soon, he wouldn't forget your wedding, nor would he miss it at any cost. Don't worry so much, you're supposed to be happy.
Her grip on my arm's really tight.
Of course, Harry. From this day forward, you'll be her property. Women are wonderful until you marry them, and it becomes too much of a bother to divorce her when she provides half the income and sex. They're monsters though, some of them… I'd watch out if I were you, she's the worst kind; in it for the fame.
Speaking of, are the press here?
You mean you can't see them? They're all around, Harry, open your eyes.
As inconspicuously as possible, I glanced around. The press seemed to come out of nowhere, bright flashbulbs going off every few seconds.
I hate the press.
I know you do, Harry. Cassandra doesn't.
She's a reporter, she wouldn't hate her own kind.
I can't believe you're actually going through with this.
Hush, you. I don't find it too much of a bother to divorce if a reason shows itself.
Shouldn't the mere fact she's a self centered bitch be enough?
You never know, she may be good in the sack.
You're awful sometimes, talking about sex like that. I'm never going to fuck again, with you not around.
Get yourself a partner, Draco, you'll want one after a while.
The only person I'll ever want is you, and you know that's true.
I'm the only one who could stand your habit of taking up all the sheets and room on the bed as well.
I do that?
You know damn well you do.
I'm cute when I do it though.
Yes, you are. Should I be listening to this guy? He rambles a lot.
No, he's talking about some sort of eternal love thing right now – doesn't sound too spectacular, don't worry.
Who hired this guy, anyway?
Cassandra, naturally.
Damn her.
Eh, she probably wanted to treasure the moment as much as possible. You know women.
I do?
Rumor has it, at least.
That's one rumor that needs to be put to rest – fast.
After tonight, that'll be a true fact. She'll probably keep you up all night, touching you, kissing you, sucking you, fucking you –
That's quite enough now.
You're mine. She can't have you.
She'll never have me, Draco. Dad taught me a lesson a few years back – just because you sleep with someone physically doesn't mean you love them mentally.
Still… Mine.
Yes, yours.
When the preacher asks if anyone objects, I'm going to object.
Draco!
Why not? Stir things up a bit.
It really won't accomplish anything, you know that.
It won't?
As long as both parties have reason enough to go through with it…
Spare me the bullshit, Harry. She can't have you.
She never will.
She's going to put a ring on your finger in a few minutes – how is that not having you?
She may have me legally, but that's all she'll ever have.
I hate her.
Sometimes I wish I did too.
And finally, the immortal words sounded from the preacher's throat, and the beginnings of the hold Cassandra would have on me began.
"Do you, Harry James Potter Snape, take Cassandra Claire Miller to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, and promise to be faithful to her until death do you part?"
Gathering my wits, mind, and will, I nodded numbly, staring straight ahead.
I'd call you a bastard, but I don't think that'd be very nice of me.
"And do you, Cassandra Claire Miller, take Harry James Potter Snape to be your lawfully wedded husband? To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, and promise to be faithful to him until death do you part?"
"I do." Her voice was wickedly sweet as she gave the preacher a curt nod, her grip on my arm tightening possessively.
"Are there any objections? Speak now or forever hold your peace."
Draco, NO.
Before Draco had the chance to reply, however, a familiar voice sounded from behind the chairs.
"I object."
Both Cassandra and I whirled around, her in horror and I in a mixture of surprise and gratitude, towards the person who had decidedly destroyed the wedding.
Wearing a long, black dress robe, his arms crossed as if daring anyone to defy him, was Dad.
Stunned, I simply stood there, far too surprised and shaken to say a word to the one man able to stop the wedding, and the only one bold enough to do so – besides Draco, of course.
"Harry," he walked forward about halfway down the aisle, "Don't make the same mistake your mother and I made, please. I couldn't bear to see you go through life as miserable as she was with James."
"…Dad?" I whispered, my voice cracking ever so slightly. "But I thought…"
"Someone finally got me to see the truth," he spoke quietly, but I knew all of the wedding guests were waiting anxiously to hear his words, "You don't love her; you never have, and don't bother denying it. You're doing this to make me, of all people, happy – you should do what makes you happy, however. Marrying this girl isn't going to make anyone but her happy, you know that."
I wretched my arm from the redhead's grip, stepping forward to meet my dad, "But… what about… I thought you didn't…?"
"If it makes you happy," he nodded, "It may take a bit of getting used to, of course, but all I've ever wanted is to see you happy. Live your life for you, Harry, not for me."
"He IS happy, old man, don't be so blind as to not see it!" Cassandra, who had now moved up next to me once again, exclaimed, "He loves me!"
"I'm not old," Dad said carefully, "And I'm most certainly not blind, and you're a silly little girl for ever thinking so."
"He still loves me!" she cried, "Don't you, Harry?"
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Draco, who was now standing up and looking as shocked as I felt. His blonde hair was carelessly hanging in his face, but his eyes were bright and hopeful.
"No," I spoke firmly, turning towards Cassandra, "I don't. Dad's right – he always is, you'd do good to listen to him once in a while."
Her expression was absolutely priceless; one of shock and horror, surprise and awakening, her mouth was opened and her eyes wide, scarcely believing what she was hearing.
"Give it up, Cassandra," said Dad quietly, "He doesn't love you… But I know someone who does. Go to him, he's willing and he does truly love you."
"Harry…" her voice was small and pathetic, "Why did you lie to me?"
"Because it was the only way I could ever stay with my family," I responded, still watching Draco out of the corner of my eye, "Without you, I would have been just about disowned. I'm going to say this once and only once – I don't love you. Goodbye."
I turned away from her quickly, walking up to Dad and embracing him.
"Thank you… Thank you so, so, so much…. I love you… God, thank you!" I whispered in his ear, making sure he was the only one able to hear me.
"You're welcome Son, now go make Cassandra's heart stop."
Needless to say, I knew exactly what he meant.
After I let go of Dad, I walked down the aisle to the end, where Draco was standing, his eyes watery orbs threatening to spill at any moment.
"Don't you dare cry," I grinned, "That'd be far too stereotypical, and you're just not that sort of person."
He laughed, taking a step forward towards me, eyes shining brightly.
What do you say you and I stun this crowd a bit, eh Draco?
I'm all for it.
Follow me.
I took a step back and turned around, making my way down the aisle towards Dad and Cassandra once more, heavily aware all eyes were on me.
No words were needed as I stopped in front of Cassandra with Draco by my side. I gazed at her with wonder, seemingly amazed that I was actually going to marry such a horrid creature.
I turned towards Draco, a grin upon my face as I stepped forward, wasting no time as his lips met mine with the force and impact of a tidal wave. I heard the collective gasp of the guests and the scream coming from Cassandra's own lips, but from the moment Draco's lips touched mine, I was in heaven. Nothing else mattered; he was mine.
With a shriek of rage, Cassandra charged towards Draco and I, her intent nothing but extreme as she lunged towards us. With a flick of Dad's wand, however, she was sent sprawling on the ground eagle-spread, her once-perfect hair now spread around her in the most unangelic of halos.
Draco and I broke apart, and with a huge grin, I turned towards the humiliated girl and smirked.
"Should have read my book."
With a brief glance and thought, Draco and I left the scene, Apparating to our flat with a pop.
It was finally over.
(Ladies and Gents, may I present the song I've been dying to use since the wedding first popped into my head.)
Hello my friend we meet again
It's been a while
Where should we begin…
Feels like forever
Within my heart are memories
Of perfect love that you gave to me
I remember
When you are with me
I'm free…
I'm careless…
I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice
We've seen our share of ups and downs
Oh how quickly life can turn around
In an instant
It feels so good to reunite
Within yourself and within your mind
Let's find peace there
When you are with me
I'm free…
I'm careless…
I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice
I just want to say hello again*
*Creed, My Sacrifice
Cat Samwise: Yep, I passed with a near perfect score and with a Dad who nearly wet his pants. I hope you liked this chapter... :o)
coriander: Harry obviously made the right choice. Good ol' Sev, always dependable. I love singing along with the radio - I'm a music addict. I feel ashamed if I don't know the song name and the artist. :o)
gwen: Aww, com'on, Snape's a good guy. Cassandra's gone, don't worry about it! Well, she's gone for now, anyway. *G*
IcyEyes202: Here's more, I really hope you liked it!
ILLK: Aww, looking away's no fun. You may regret it for the rest of your life. Ever wonder how much of life people miss just because they're looking the wrong way? Hmm... You won't find out what happens after Cassandra and Harry get married, cuz they don't! *G*
Ironic Echoes: Wow, one sitting?! Great job! I'm flattered you like the story so much :o) Hope this chapter's enough.
Joycelene: Family love, in the end, always prevails. :o)
Klee: Didn't you know how it was all going to turn out anyway? How'd you like the wedding, eh? Surprising enough? *G*
lynn: She's gone. :o) Hope you liked it!
Morien Alexander: LOL, porn? Yeah, Cassandra and Harry WAS really sad and gross... Note the "was". *G*
-Nagini-: He WAS screwed over... Isn't anymore though :o) Harry said it, but Draco appreciates you saying it as well. He loves you too :o)
Polyre, Amy, Dickens, LiLSiS: BALLOONS!!! YAY!!! Thank you!! :o)
yiota: Yep, I plan on staying completely true to LLOA and the cookies. It'll all work out in the end... somehow.
[And no, for God's sake, this IS NOT THE END! No way... There's more, a lot more.]
Stupidly, I deleted the edited chapter right as I finished it... *sigh* O well. I've been having a lot of wrist problems - mainly a little lump pressing directly on my muscle ligiment things in my right wrist. Damn tumor. So sorry about the delay, folks. There's a lot of conversation in this chapter, sorry about that, hopefully the length makes up for it. May I present, The Wedding.
Aimée
Hot mouths, lips upon one another, hands grasping for anything to hold on to.
"Love you…" a male voice murmured, stroking the cheek of his companion with his thumb.
"Wish it was you," his companion whispered, kissing him gently, eyes locked on one another.
"Run away with me… please?" the man begged, eyes pleading with his lover.
"You know I can't," his partner sighed, adjusting a wayward piece of hair, "Someday though…"
"You're making a mistake," they had ceased facial contact, instead settling for customary arm's length away.
"I may be, but it's a mistake you have to let me make."
"Are you two in love?"
"Never. My heart belongs to you and only you."
"I'll miss you."
"So will I."
There were over five hundred guests spread across the vast acres of land my parents owned, all seated and looking at me cautiously as I made my way down the aisle to the place I was to stand. Turning around to wait for Cassandra to make her entrance, I noticed Mum sitting up in front on my side of the guests, while Draco was in the very last row, looking as if for all the world he yearned to jump up and leave.
Are you ok?
I'm fine, Harry. Why wouldn't I be?
You look agitated.
Of course I'm agitated. You're making the worst mistake of your life, and you expect me to just sit here and take it?
What would you like me to do, Draco? Tell everyone I've changed my mind and walk out?
I'll come with you.
I know you would. Have you seen Dad?
Isn't he up front with your mother?
No – I don't see him. I'm doing this for him, and he doesn't even bother to show up… wonderful.
He'll show, don't worry.
He'd better, I don't think I could stand having to go through this knowing he's not here to witness it.
Just don't get her pregnant.
How the hell did you come up with that all of the sudden?
Honeymoon starts tonight, doesn't it? Just do yourself a favour and don't get her pregnant.
I don't exactly have a choice in the matter. If she gets pregnant, she gets pregnant.
Just do your best to not get he that way, will you? Please?
I'll try. Why are you all the way back there?
I don't want to sit next to your Mum and hand her hankies during the ceremony, to be honest.
Remus is here for that.
Your Dad isn't going to like that much, is he?
I think he doesn't mind too much anymore. Mum still can't look at Pollux though – it's really quite funny.
I'm sure it is.
Wonder how long it'll take the little bugger to realize all he has to do is look at Mum and he'll get anything he wants?
Knowing your family? He probably already knows.
True.
Just as we finished our conversation, Cassandra suddenly appeared at the beginning of the aisle, fronted by what seemed like an army of bridesmaids and escorts.
She's brought an army, Harry – you may want to watch out. Too much perfume and makeup is bad for one's judgment.
You're going to make sarcastic comments all the way through the ceremony, aren't you?
It'll make things much more interesting, you have to admit.
The music started – a peppy rendition of the typical wedding march, and I once again scanned the crowd, looking for any signs of Dad.
The fourth maid's sort of cute, wouldn't you agree?
Draco…
Not as cute as your arse, though. Probably not as tasty, either.
Thank you for the mental picture.
Anytime, love.
After a long procession of bridesmaids and flower girls finally made their way down the aisle to take their place in various areas around the preacher and I, Cassandra finally made her way down the aisle, escorted by her father, a burly man in his early forties.
I can smell her from here.
Is it a good smell?
Smells like rotten tomatoes.
Don't even think about saying anything, Draco.
Rotten tomatoes, really, because she's rotten and her hair makes her look like a tomato.
You're going to beat this into the ground, aren't you?
You love me for it.
Shut up.
As you wish, gorgeous, handsome, famous, lovely, wonderful, sexy, hot –
That's enough for now.
You mean you don't want to hear anymore?
Maybe during the verses and vows. Those always bore me anyway.
Tsk, tsk. Not paying attention at your own wedding, Harry – shame.
But it's the best sort of shame.
She's by you now – can you smell her?
Now that you mention it…
I saw him grin, even from twenty-five rows back. I nodded towards Cassandra's father – my future father-in-law – and took her by the arm, leading her up before the preacher.
And now, ladies and gents, for the worst part of the afternoon… Draco's voice rang clear in my head.
"Ladies and Gentlemen, honored guests and beloved friends, we gather here today to celebrate the union of Harry James Potter Snape and Cassandra Claire Miller…"
The preacher's dull ramblings and verses became mere dull thunder in my ears as I reached out with my mind, trying desperately to connect it to my Dad's, to at least ask where he was. After several attempts, however, I soon realized I wasn't going to succeed.
I can't find Dad… What if he really misses everything?
I don't think he'd miss it all, Harry. He'll be here soon, he wouldn't forget your wedding, nor would he miss it at any cost. Don't worry so much, you're supposed to be happy.
Her grip on my arm's really tight.
Of course, Harry. From this day forward, you'll be her property. Women are wonderful until you marry them, and it becomes too much of a bother to divorce her when she provides half the income and sex. They're monsters though, some of them… I'd watch out if I were you, she's the worst kind; in it for the fame.
Speaking of, are the press here?
You mean you can't see them? They're all around, Harry, open your eyes.
As inconspicuously as possible, I glanced around. The press seemed to come out of nowhere, bright flashbulbs going off every few seconds.
I hate the press.
I know you do, Harry. Cassandra doesn't.
She's a reporter, she wouldn't hate her own kind.
I can't believe you're actually going through with this.
Hush, you. I don't find it too much of a bother to divorce if a reason shows itself.
Shouldn't the mere fact she's a self centered bitch be enough?
You never know, she may be good in the sack.
You're awful sometimes, talking about sex like that. I'm never going to fuck again, with you not around.
Get yourself a partner, Draco, you'll want one after a while.
The only person I'll ever want is you, and you know that's true.
I'm the only one who could stand your habit of taking up all the sheets and room on the bed as well.
I do that?
You know damn well you do.
I'm cute when I do it though.
Yes, you are. Should I be listening to this guy? He rambles a lot.
No, he's talking about some sort of eternal love thing right now – doesn't sound too spectacular, don't worry.
Who hired this guy, anyway?
Cassandra, naturally.
Damn her.
Eh, she probably wanted to treasure the moment as much as possible. You know women.
I do?
Rumor has it, at least.
That's one rumor that needs to be put to rest – fast.
After tonight, that'll be a true fact. She'll probably keep you up all night, touching you, kissing you, sucking you, fucking you –
That's quite enough now.
You're mine. She can't have you.
She'll never have me, Draco. Dad taught me a lesson a few years back – just because you sleep with someone physically doesn't mean you love them mentally.
Still… Mine.
Yes, yours.
When the preacher asks if anyone objects, I'm going to object.
Draco!
Why not? Stir things up a bit.
It really won't accomplish anything, you know that.
It won't?
As long as both parties have reason enough to go through with it…
Spare me the bullshit, Harry. She can't have you.
She never will.
She's going to put a ring on your finger in a few minutes – how is that not having you?
She may have me legally, but that's all she'll ever have.
I hate her.
Sometimes I wish I did too.
And finally, the immortal words sounded from the preacher's throat, and the beginnings of the hold Cassandra would have on me began.
"Do you, Harry James Potter Snape, take Cassandra Claire Miller to be your lawfully wedded wife? To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, and promise to be faithful to her until death do you part?"
Gathering my wits, mind, and will, I nodded numbly, staring straight ahead.
I'd call you a bastard, but I don't think that'd be very nice of me.
"And do you, Cassandra Claire Miller, take Harry James Potter Snape to be your lawfully wedded husband? To have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, and promise to be faithful to him until death do you part?"
"I do." Her voice was wickedly sweet as she gave the preacher a curt nod, her grip on my arm tightening possessively.
"Are there any objections? Speak now or forever hold your peace."
Draco, NO.
Before Draco had the chance to reply, however, a familiar voice sounded from behind the chairs.
"I object."
Both Cassandra and I whirled around, her in horror and I in a mixture of surprise and gratitude, towards the person who had decidedly destroyed the wedding.
Wearing a long, black dress robe, his arms crossed as if daring anyone to defy him, was Dad.
Stunned, I simply stood there, far too surprised and shaken to say a word to the one man able to stop the wedding, and the only one bold enough to do so – besides Draco, of course.
"Harry," he walked forward about halfway down the aisle, "Don't make the same mistake your mother and I made, please. I couldn't bear to see you go through life as miserable as she was with James."
"…Dad?" I whispered, my voice cracking ever so slightly. "But I thought…"
"Someone finally got me to see the truth," he spoke quietly, but I knew all of the wedding guests were waiting anxiously to hear his words, "You don't love her; you never have, and don't bother denying it. You're doing this to make me, of all people, happy – you should do what makes you happy, however. Marrying this girl isn't going to make anyone but her happy, you know that."
I wretched my arm from the redhead's grip, stepping forward to meet my dad, "But… what about… I thought you didn't…?"
"If it makes you happy," he nodded, "It may take a bit of getting used to, of course, but all I've ever wanted is to see you happy. Live your life for you, Harry, not for me."
"He IS happy, old man, don't be so blind as to not see it!" Cassandra, who had now moved up next to me once again, exclaimed, "He loves me!"
"I'm not old," Dad said carefully, "And I'm most certainly not blind, and you're a silly little girl for ever thinking so."
"He still loves me!" she cried, "Don't you, Harry?"
Out of the corner of my eye, I saw Draco, who was now standing up and looking as shocked as I felt. His blonde hair was carelessly hanging in his face, but his eyes were bright and hopeful.
"No," I spoke firmly, turning towards Cassandra, "I don't. Dad's right – he always is, you'd do good to listen to him once in a while."
Her expression was absolutely priceless; one of shock and horror, surprise and awakening, her mouth was opened and her eyes wide, scarcely believing what she was hearing.
"Give it up, Cassandra," said Dad quietly, "He doesn't love you… But I know someone who does. Go to him, he's willing and he does truly love you."
"Harry…" her voice was small and pathetic, "Why did you lie to me?"
"Because it was the only way I could ever stay with my family," I responded, still watching Draco out of the corner of my eye, "Without you, I would have been just about disowned. I'm going to say this once and only once – I don't love you. Goodbye."
I turned away from her quickly, walking up to Dad and embracing him.
"Thank you… Thank you so, so, so much…. I love you… God, thank you!" I whispered in his ear, making sure he was the only one able to hear me.
"You're welcome Son, now go make Cassandra's heart stop."
Needless to say, I knew exactly what he meant.
After I let go of Dad, I walked down the aisle to the end, where Draco was standing, his eyes watery orbs threatening to spill at any moment.
"Don't you dare cry," I grinned, "That'd be far too stereotypical, and you're just not that sort of person."
He laughed, taking a step forward towards me, eyes shining brightly.
What do you say you and I stun this crowd a bit, eh Draco?
I'm all for it.
Follow me.
I took a step back and turned around, making my way down the aisle towards Dad and Cassandra once more, heavily aware all eyes were on me.
No words were needed as I stopped in front of Cassandra with Draco by my side. I gazed at her with wonder, seemingly amazed that I was actually going to marry such a horrid creature.
I turned towards Draco, a grin upon my face as I stepped forward, wasting no time as his lips met mine with the force and impact of a tidal wave. I heard the collective gasp of the guests and the scream coming from Cassandra's own lips, but from the moment Draco's lips touched mine, I was in heaven. Nothing else mattered; he was mine.
With a shriek of rage, Cassandra charged towards Draco and I, her intent nothing but extreme as she lunged towards us. With a flick of Dad's wand, however, she was sent sprawling on the ground eagle-spread, her once-perfect hair now spread around her in the most unangelic of halos.
Draco and I broke apart, and with a huge grin, I turned towards the humiliated girl and smirked.
"Should have read my book."
With a brief glance and thought, Draco and I left the scene, Apparating to our flat with a pop.
It was finally over.
(Ladies and Gents, may I present the song I've been dying to use since the wedding first popped into my head.)
Hello my friend we meet again
It's been a while
Where should we begin…
Feels like forever
Within my heart are memories
Of perfect love that you gave to me
I remember
When you are with me
I'm free…
I'm careless…
I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice
We've seen our share of ups and downs
Oh how quickly life can turn around
In an instant
It feels so good to reunite
Within yourself and within your mind
Let's find peace there
When you are with me
I'm free…
I'm careless…
I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice
I just want to say hello again*
*Creed, My Sacrifice
Cat Samwise: Yep, I passed with a near perfect score and with a Dad who nearly wet his pants. I hope you liked this chapter... :o)
coriander: Harry obviously made the right choice. Good ol' Sev, always dependable. I love singing along with the radio - I'm a music addict. I feel ashamed if I don't know the song name and the artist. :o)
gwen: Aww, com'on, Snape's a good guy. Cassandra's gone, don't worry about it! Well, she's gone for now, anyway. *G*
IcyEyes202: Here's more, I really hope you liked it!
ILLK: Aww, looking away's no fun. You may regret it for the rest of your life. Ever wonder how much of life people miss just because they're looking the wrong way? Hmm... You won't find out what happens after Cassandra and Harry get married, cuz they don't! *G*
Ironic Echoes: Wow, one sitting?! Great job! I'm flattered you like the story so much :o) Hope this chapter's enough.
Joycelene: Family love, in the end, always prevails. :o)
Klee: Didn't you know how it was all going to turn out anyway? How'd you like the wedding, eh? Surprising enough? *G*
lynn: She's gone. :o) Hope you liked it!
Morien Alexander: LOL, porn? Yeah, Cassandra and Harry WAS really sad and gross... Note the "was". *G*
-Nagini-: He WAS screwed over... Isn't anymore though :o) Harry said it, but Draco appreciates you saying it as well. He loves you too :o)
Polyre, Amy, Dickens, LiLSiS: BALLOONS!!! YAY!!! Thank you!! :o)
yiota: Yep, I plan on staying completely true to LLOA and the cookies. It'll all work out in the end... somehow.
[And no, for God's sake, this IS NOT THE END! No way... There's more, a lot more.]