"And what are you going to do when you have classes, Hagrid? Take it with you? Or are you planning on an older kid?" Ron asked curiously.
Harry laughed and nudged him. "Stop it, Mrs. Weasley," he said.
Hagrid laughed as well. "I'm thinkin' 'bout five or six years old. Prob'ly a boy. They're the funnest," he said.
"Oh, you may think they're fun, Hagrid, but they're very energetic. The fun wears off after a trial run," Mrs. Weasley warned.
"Ah well. I'm not that old yet. I'll manage," Hagrid said.
Within about twenty minutes, they arrived at the orphanage, which was a large Victorian house not far from the Weasley house. As soon as they arrived in the gravel driveway, they were greeted by a plump lady who looked to be about Mrs. Weasley's age.
"Hello. Hagrid, so nice to see you again," said the woman. She smiled at Ron, Hermione, Harry, Lupin, and Mrs. Weasley. "Sorry, I don't think we've all met."
"Oh, of course. How rude. I'm Molly Weasley, and this is my son, Ron. This here is Hermione, and that's Harry. Oh, sorry, Remus, I didn't see you there. And this is Remus Lupin," Mrs. Weasley quickly said.
The woman smiled and shook each other their hands. "Nice to meet you. Would you like some tea? It's a bit warm for herbal, but maybe iced tea would be best," she said. "Oh, by the way, I'm Maggie."
Maggie quickly let them into the house, which was literally crawling with children. Many were about four through ten years old. A set of twin girls, about one year old and wearing matching yellow outfits, waddled unsteadily about. Mrs. Weasley looked to be in heaven.
"Oh, look at you little darlings. Hi there, sweethearts," she cooed to the twins. They looked up, and Harry saw that they had bright blue eyes, as well as blond hair. "Oh, I might just steal you."
Maggie laughed. "Almost everyone that comes here says that about these two. But in truth, they are little terrors. When one cries, the other cries. It's a chain reaction like that with some of the triplets and other twins that are here," said she.
"Iris, dear, go make some iced tea for our guests," she called.
"Yes, Maggie. How many people?" came a girl's voice.
"Um… One, two, three… Um, seven, dear. Eight if you'd like to include yourself," said Maggie. She led them into the dining room, which was almost completely devoid of children, which seemed surprising.
"Er, just to be nosy, why aren't there as many children in here as around the yard and in the sitting room?" inquired Lupin.
"Remus, dear, that's simple. It's like that with a lot of children. Meal times are when the little ones have to sit and behave," explained Mrs. Weasley.
Maggie smiled at her. "I'm impressed," she said.
"Several of my own," replied Mrs. Weasley.
"Well, let's get right down to it, shall we? Hagrid, I know you're not very interested in babies, but they are my pride. Can we just have a quick little peek at them?" Maggie said, almost eagerly. She reminded Harry of Mrs. Weasley without the menopause.
"O' course," Hagrid said chipperly.
She led them up a flight of stairs and into a pink and blue room. There were ten cribs in the room, five on one side, and five on the other.
"This is my nursery. Nap time for all those ten months and younger," Maggie said proudly.
Mrs. Weasley clasped her hands together, looking ecstatic. "Oh, now you have gone and done it. Oh, look at all the little darlings," she cooed.
Something had come over Hermione as well. A soft look came over her eyes and she hurried over to the first crib that she could see and began cooing into it.
"Uh-oh, mate. The maternal instinct on Hermione has kicked in," Harry whispered to Ron, looking at Hermione. There wasn't any response. "Ron?" he asked, and looked over to his left.
Ron had gone off the deep end. He was cooing at a baby somewhere toward the middle. Harry had to clutch at his stomach to keep from falling on the floor with laughter. "Hey, Ron, can I get you your curlers?" he laughed.
Ron looked over from where he was holding the cackling baby up and nuzzling its face. "Huh?" he asked.
"You're a big weenie, Ron!" Harry laughed.
Ron gave him a look. "Oh, shut up, Harry. Look at this. Could you say no to this?" Ron said, holding the baby up by under his arms. A drip of drool hit the ground.
"Er, sure, mate."
"That's Dameon. He's just turned six months old. Such a big boy," Maggie said fondly.
"Taking care of all these children must cost a fortune," Mrs. Weasley said with wide eyes.
"Yes, but I can afford it. A blessing left us plenty of money, such a pity that she died. Left a good fourth of her and her husband's savings while they left the rest to their son," Maggie said, smiling. "And a fourth of it is one half more than we need here."
"What a saint. Do you remember her name?" asked Mrs. Weasley while she stroked a baby's cheek.
"Um, I can only remember her first name. But she had red hair and - erm, big green eyes. A pretty little number, she was. Quite young when she died… Oh, it was 'L' something…"
Harry's eyes widened. "Lily?" he inquired.
"That's it! Lily something… Oh, I can't remember her last name to save my life. Did you know her, dear? Her husband was - erm, rather tall, black hair, and… yellow-brown - hazel eyes," Maggie said, closing her eyes and trying to remember.
Everyone looked rather shocked.
"Did you know her, dear?" inquired Maggie again.
"She - she was my mum," Harry said quietly.
Maggie smiled. "Oh, what are the odds? Oh yes, I can see you have her eyes," she said. "This is rather exciting, isn't it? Well, you should be very proud of your mum, Harry. She was kind and wise beyond her years. Oh, I'm getting all gushy," Maggie said, quickly dabbing at her eyes. "Iris, dear!" she called.
In came a girl of about sixteen. She had brown hair and blue-green eyes. There was something familiar about her… Then Harry saw something peak out from underneath her hair - bat-like ears. It was the girl that they had met at St. Mungo's.
In front of the girl were the two twin girls, wide grins on their faces and they were soaking wet.
"Yes, Maggie?" Iris asked pleasantly.
"Oh dear, what happened?" Maggie asked, crouching down so the twins could waddle over to her.
"Oh, nothing. I just have another two for you, Warden. Caught outside with the hose. I think you can get the rest of it," said Iris. One of the twins waddled over to Iris and hugged her around the knees. "Yes, thank you for getting me wet, sweetie. Now, go on. Go get Alan to get you dry. I'll come with you guys," she said, and led the two out of the nursery. "Come on, you little ducks."
"Quack quack," said one of the twins. She waved at Harry before she left, and Harry wiggled his fingers in a wave.
"Isn't that the girl we met in St. Mun- er, the hospital?" said Ron.
"Yeah, I think it is. She was volunteering, remember? Wow, she volunteers for a lot of things," Hermione said.
Maggie wrinkled her nose. "Iris only helps out at a hospital, Hermione, dear. Iris lives here," she said. This shocked them quite a bit. "Anyway, I want to show you a very special little one," Maggie said, and led them to the crib farthest from the door but closest to the window. She leaned forward and lifted a very small baby out of the crib.
"This is little Emma. Only fwee days ode, huh, Emsy?" Maggie cooed.
"Aww. She's so young," Hermione said, her eyes wide.
"She's only just come home from the hospital. She was just dropped off here today. Mumma couldn't afford poor Baby. But she's a little gem out of the ruff," Maggie said, nuzzling the baby.
"Do you have any children of your own?" Hermione asked curiously.
Maggie shook her head and frowned. "Barren. But that's okay, because I get to watch all of these cuties grow up," she said, hugging the baby to her chest.
The infant newborn had a lot of hair for a baby. It was jet black and messy from her crib. She blinked a few times, and Harry saw that she had emerald green eyes.
Mrs. Weasley laughed. "Aw, Harry, she could be your baby. She looks so much like you."
Harry blushed. "I'm not really thinking of procreating just yet," he chuckled. The baby kicked and yawned, and Harry felt a sudden surge of paternal instinct from somewhere deep within. "But she is adorable," he added.
"Aw, look at the little gem. Er, Maggie, do yeh think I could hold her?" Hagrid said, grinning.
"Of course, Hagrid. There you are. Just hold her head up a little bit more. There. Nice and close to your chest, newborns love body warmth," instructed Maggie.
The infant clung to Hagrid's overcoat with tiny fingers as he cradled her.
"Oh, Hagrid, I think she likes you," Hermione said fondly.
"Tha's okay, 'cause I like her," Hagrid said, smiling at the infant. "Jus' a tiny thing, you are. A bug is p'tentially dangerous ter yeh, huh, Emma?" he cooed.
"I must admit, she's the cutest baby I have here," Maggie said, smiling.
"Cute as a button, sweet as a lamb, and twice as cuddly," Hagrid agreed. He nuzzled the baby's cheek. "Yeh know what? I reckon I'm goin' ter throw all me plans out the window. Emma's only the cutest thing I've ever seen," he said, looking up from the baby.
"You mean you're going to take her instead, Hagrid?" Hermione asked, biting her lower lip.
"I think so. I mean, if it's okay. If she's too little ter go anywhere, I'd understand," Hagrid said, looking over at Maggie.
Maggie grinned. "Oh, no. The sooner she's out of here, the sooner she'll be used to you - though I don't think that's any problem - and a whole new environment. Oh, look at that happy little face. Oh, well, now it's a slobbery little face." Maggie leaned over and wiped the baby's face with her sleeve. "Mind that there's a fair amount of paperwork that you'll have to go through. But it should only take a week or so to get all of the appropriate paperwork. After that it should only take a few more days to get it all done and cleared. Oh, but you'll basically have to fight her sister for her. This is Iris's sister. She's quite protective of her. But I'm sure she'll agree to it once she gets to know you a bit better. Mind that she'd be dropping by just about every day to make sure that her ickle Emmykins is all right. Now where would she be right now? Hmm, probably down by the forest," she said.
She led them out of the house (along with Emma) and out into the backyard, where there was a thick form of trees. Just by the edge of the forest sat Iris, stroking what appeared to be a young hippogriff. It squawked playfully and jumped on her.
Laughing, Iris pulled the hippogriff off of her. It reared back on its hind legs and landed its front half on her lap. "Oof! You silly little thing, you weigh too much. You're not a lap dog! Or any other kind of dog, now are you? Oh, hey Maggie and accomplices and Baby," she said, laughing as she hippogriff nuzzled her face, vying for her attention. "Easy, you weirdo." When Maggie didn't respond, Iris stopped smiling. "Maggie? What's wrong?"
"Why don't you lot go to the kitchen and ask one of the older kids to grab you your tea, all right? I think I better tell her by myself," Maggie said to the large group. They nodded and went back up to the large Victorian house. Maggie seated herself next to Iris and the hippogriff with Emma in her arms.
"What's the matter, Maggie?" Iris questioned, pushing the hippogriff off her. She took her younger sister from Maggie.
"Dear, you know that big bloke, Hagrid? Well, he's decided to take Emma," Maggie said gently.
The words resounded in Iris's mind emptily. Her ears perked up. "What? He - he wants my Emma? Well, you told him no, didn't you, Maggie?" she said quickly, holding the baby protectively.
Maggie sighed and put her hand on Iris's thigh. "Iris, dear, this may be her only chance to get out of here. And Hagrid is so kind and so good with her. She already loves him, Iris. And if I don't let Hagrid take her away from here, there's a very good chance that she'll have to grow up in the orphanage like you did," she said.
"No!" Iris said, jumping to her feet, Emma safely cradled in her arms. "No, Maggie, you can't let this happen! I've got two more years of school! I can raise her myself! Just keep her here, Maggie, please!" Iris found that there were tears in her eyes, but she didn't bother to brush them away. "He doesn't know her! Maggie, just watch her during the days. I'll pay you!" pleaded Iris.
Maggie remained sitting. "Iris, dear, I don't have a choice. I guarantee you that you can't find a sweeter person than Hagrid. He's even a professor at Hogwarts, you know," she said.
Iris paced for a while, thinking this over. The baby in her arms flopped a bit, and Emma squealed happily. "Shush," she told the infant. Iris stopped pacing. "Fine. If you're not going to listen to me, then I'm leaving. I'll start a new life somewhere else with Emma. Well, soon," she decided.
Before Maggie could respond, Iris had already started off at a trot. She wrenched the door open, and kept running with the baby humming to herself all the way to the kitchen. She looked around, and soon found the one called Hagrid, sitting down and enjoying a sandwich.
Iris looked down at her little sister, who was trying to get drops of water off of her. It was then that Iris realized that she was crying. Iris quickly wiped her eyes on the back of her hand. She strode over and set Emma in Hagrid's lap. Hagrid instinctively dropped the sandwich and grabbed the baby. He looked curiously up at Iris. She noticed that everyone was looking at her.
"Look. I have no clue who you are, and I'm not agreeing to this, but I want to try something. Let her sit with you for a minute," Iris said. Hagrid looked apologetic, and was going to say something, but decided against it. Instead, he lifted up the baby and lay her against his chest.
The baby snuggled up against Hagrid's chest and 'hmphed' contentedly.
Iris leaned over and picked the baby. She then set Emma down in Harry's lap. Emma began sniffling and sobbing softly. Iris picked the baby up and put her near Hagrid. Her cries soon stopped.
Iris looked horribly disappointed. "Very well then," she said. She was obviously trying to choke back tears. "I guess she's yours."
Without another word, Iris quickly left the room. She ran up the stairs and into her room. She shared it with seven other girls, so there were four bunk-beds. She locked the door and really didn't care if one of the other girls needed to get in there. She hurried to her bed on the bottom bunk and lay down and began to cry. She was losing her only sister, her baby sister. And worse yet, she was losing her to someone she didn't know and she'd probably never see her again.
Meanwhile…
Back downstairs, Hagrid was looking like he was going to cry. Mrs. Weasley was trying her best to comfort him. He sniffled as a large tear rolled off his face and into his mug.
"Oh, there, there, Hagrid, it's all right! Don't cry, it's okay! Hagrid please don't cry! Look, now Emma's crying, Hagrid, give her a hug," Mrs. Weasley said, gently patting his hand.
"I can't take her now. I can' break up a family," Hagrid sniffled. "Bu' I really want her." At this, Hagrid began to actually sob.
"Aww, it's okay, Hagrid. I'm sure Iris'll let you have her eventually. It's just going to take her a little while," Mrs. Weasley assured.
Hagrid sniffled and forced himself to stop sobbing. A tear ran down one of his cheeks and landed on the crying baby's head. Hagrid lightly patted her bottom. "Aw, c'mon now, smile. Don' do as I do, I'm a bad example. Look, tummy kisses," he offered. He lifted her up above his head and began kissing her stomach. Little Emma stopped crying and squealed.
Maggie came into the room, looking quiet somber. When she looked at Hagrid's teary face she 'awwed'. She went over and gave him a hug. "Poor Hagrid. Iris wasn't too hard on you, was she?"
"Nah. All she did was see if Emma really liked me. Bu' I don't think tha' I can really tear those two apart. It's like splittin'' a family apart, which it is," Hagrid said, nuzzling Emma's face. Maggie lightly patted his leg.
"Well, Hagrid, I'm quite sure that she will get over it. As long as she can see her just about every day. But I do believe that you need a bit more of a test, to see if you can handle a demanding newborn. I would very much like it if Emma stayed with you in your hut over night. With someone else in the hut through the night as well, if you wouldn't mind," Maggie said, making Hagrid grin.
"Really? I mean, no paperwork an' no signin' anything b'fore I can take her to me hut?" he asked with wide, hopeful eyes. Maggie chuckled and nodded. "When can I take her?"
"As soon as we go through things that she needs. First off, she'll get up about every two hours or so, starting at two or one. She'll be hungry and she uses a different kind of bottle, seeing as she's so young. It's got a plastic outside but the inside is just like a bag, basically, and it's filled with - erm, how to say this to you. Um, it's filled with Mummy juice, okay, Hagrid?" Maggie said, finding it hard to say the appropriate word in front of Hagrid. "It also works more like a Mummy. But she'll need a bath in the morning sometime and she'll need to be changed, and not just in clothes. I'll get her diaper bag ready and full of more than enough diapers you'll need to have a happy Emma. Oh, yes, and your little blankey, Emmakins, Maggie can't forget that. Six bags of milk for you as well, Snicklefritz, I'm not quite sure how much you like to eat just yet. And a blanket, maybe a pillow, but a small one. You're not quite fond of those yet," Maggie said, cooing to the baby.
"Hagrid, where are you going to find room in your hut for the baby's crib?" Mrs. Weasley asked curiously.
"Well, I don't exactly have a spare crib in me pocket, Molly. A lot o' everything else, but no crib. I'll make due. There's a perfect li'l space in a drawer o' mine. I can line it with blankets an' all things cushy. I'll make sure the sides are padded an' everything. I can move the whole dresser so it's right near me bed, too," Hagrid said, his eyes widening as his ideas got bigger. "O' course as soon as I can I'll get a decent crib fer the li'l angel. Do yeh think tha' Professor Dumbledore would have me hut increased in size?"
Hermione, Harry, and Ron nodded. "Definitely. I mean, he'd probably give you a goat if she needed it," Harry said, making Hagrid chuckle. "Er - not to be nosey or anything, but I was wondering how big she is."
"Well, sixteen and three-quarters inches, just a tiny baby. And she's three and a half pounds. Just a tiny little thing my Emmykins is, huh, precious?" Maggie cooed, gently stroking the baby's head.
Hagrid's eyes widened. "Why's she so small? Shouldn' she still be in the hospital?" he inquired quickly. "Three an' a half pounds isn't anythin' ter sneeze at."
"The doctors said it was okay that she left because she's also generally healthy. Just very tiny," Maggie said, kissing the baby's cheek.
"Hagrid, you're a bit puzzling. You came here all set to have a four-year old boy and you're getting a newborn baby girl!" Hermione said, giving him a puzzled look.
"Yeah, well, I didn' know she was goin' ter be here. The li'l angel," Hagrid said, grinning.
Harry saw Iris walk hurriedly by the room, and quickly followed.
"Where are you going, Harry?" inquired Mrs. Weasley concernedly.
Harry rolled his eyes. "Off to do myself in," he muttered so nobody could hear. "Bathroom," he said.
"To your left and the second door on your right," Maggie said pleasantly.
"Thanks," Harry mumbled before hurrying out of the room. Iris was walking quickly, and Harry had to jog to keep up. "Hey!" he called.
Iris stopped and turned around. "What?" she asked.
"Hagrid is my friend and he's a damn good person and why don't you trust him with your sister?" Harry demanded.
"Look. I'm sure he's an okay person. But he's taking my sister. I've had a few hours to myself with her, and that's it. And you expect me to hand her over without any argument? I won't be able to look at her again without wishing that she was mine and only mine. He has her for the rest of her life. I only had her for a couple of hours. Think about it," Iris said simply before walking away.
This time, however, Harry didn't go after her. Instead, he walked back to the nursery where Hagrid was cradling and cooing at Emma. Emma seemed to be enjoying this as she sucked happily on a pacifier, which looked much too big for her minute mouth.
"Who's jus' a pretty girl, Emma?" Hagrid cooed.
"Hmmm," Emma cooed back.
"Yeah, yeh know yeh're pretty. Yeh're jus' bein' modest, huh?" Hagrid said, giving the baby a whiskery kiss on the cheek. Before he could pull back, Emma had grabbed onto his hair and was nuzzling against his hair. Hagrid laughed and kissed her forehead. "Precious," he said, looking at her. The newborn stopped and looked up at him with wide green eyes. She yawned and gave everyone a perfect view of her gums.
Mrs. Weasley seemed to break at this. "Oh, you're going to be such a little heartbreaker, my darling. Come here to Auntie Molly," she said. Mrs. Weasley took Emma from Hagrid, who looked hesitant.
"Dust a wittle angel baby, huh, Emma? Do 'oo have a middle name, popkin?" Mrs. Weasley cooed, nuzzling the baby's face.
"No, she only got a first name from her mummy. So, Hagrid, you have to give Emma here a middle name," Maggie said, beaming at Hagrid. His brow furrowed.
"Hmm. I think tha' Lee would fit this beauty best, don't yeh think? Harry, why are yeh lookin' so down? Yer no' thinking' o' - er…" Hagrid said, noticing Harry's frown and look of utter boredom. Harry rolled his eyes.
"No, Hagrid, just thinking about what Iris said, if it makes much difference," Harry said, looking even more bored if possible.
"What? What did she say, Harry?" Maggie said, looking very interested.
"She's pissed because Hagrid's going to have her for the rest of Emma's life while she only got to see her for a few hours and about how she's not going to be able to see her again not wishing that she was with her," Harry said dully.
"Well, o' course she's goin' ter see Emma. It's not like I'm heartless. Iris can come an' see the baby whenever she wants," Hagrid said. "Well, it might not be in my bes' interest if she came in the middle o' the night, but tha's okay too."
Maggie got Hagrid everything that he'd need to take care of Emma with. Harry and Hermione were to stay with Hagrid that night, to help him with Emma. Hagrid was overjoyed when they were about to leave, as he was helping bundle Baby Emma up.
"Aww, yeh look jus' like a li'l marshmallow, Emsy," Hagrid cooed, gently stroking her cheek. "So we're takin' the Knight Bus back? All righ', then, kiddo, yer goin' ter sit in me lap so yeh don't go flyin' out the window, 'kay? 'Kay."
"Oh, look at the little precious angel. Isn't she just darling?" Mrs. Weasley said, beaming at the tiny infant.
"Thanks, Maggie. I'll bring her back 'round eleven. I'll send an owl if I've got any problems tha' this lot can't help me with," Hagrid said, holding the baby on his hip so he could shake Maggie's hand. As he did, Emma contented herself with digging around in his pockets. She began pulling something out that squeaked loudly in protest. When she did, Harry saw that she had a scaly bald tail in her tiny fist. She shook it happily.
Harry hurried over and picked the baby up, putting the supposed rat back in Hagrid's pocket. Emma was now looking at her hand, which had a scraggly scratch on it. She began sniffling.
Harry bounced the baby girl gently and tried to calm her. "Ssh, come on, now. It's okay. Here, let me see, Emma, let me see. Well that's not so bad. But it must sting, considering that this is probably your first owie, huh?" he said gently.
Mrs. Weasley hurried over. "Oh, poor baby. Hold still, angel. Immendo. There, that's better, isn't it? And you don't even have a little scar! Look at that," she cooed gently. There was loud rapping at the window and Harry saw Fawkes standing outside the window. Mrs. Weasley took the little girl from Harry so he could get to Fawkes. The large bird flew into the room and affectionately nipped at Harry's ear. He stuck out his foot which had a piece of parchment attached. Harry opened it up and read aloud:
"Hagrid or anyone else you is reading this, Firstly, Hagrid, congratulations on your new little boy. You said that he would be about six or so, so I cannot wait until he is eleven years old and when he can start school here. Everyone, and when I say everyone, I mean it, is in the staff room waiting for you to tell us about your new little boy. Maybe a few hundred pictures of so would satisfy our growing curiosity. If possible, it would make us all feel much better if you would be able to borrow the little boy for a hour or two. Congratulations once more, Hagrid. Dumbledore."
Hagrid chuckled. "Well aren't there goin' ter be a few surprised faces when they take a look at yer cute little face, huh? Probably even more surprised when they take a peek in yer diaper. Oh, wait, I nearly fergot, yeh li'l cutie. I brough' summat fer yeh. If I can only find it," Hagrid dug around in his pockets for a little while before pulling out a black and white cow with small horns. It was a plush toy and it made Mrs. Weasley aww. He very gently took Baby Emma from her and cradled her in one arm while he gently rubbed the cow against her cheek. She hummed a little bit and then tried to hold it.
"Watch this, Emma," Hagrid said, beaming as he squeezed the cow's middle. MOOOO! went the cow. Emma's eyes went wide and she squealed. Everyone chuckled at this. Hagrid carefully handed the infant the cow. The kitchen door opened and an unexpected face came through the door, holding a stuffed bear.
Iris was looking at the floor as she handed Hagrid the bear. "It's the only thing I have of our mum's. I think she needs it more than I do." Just after saying this, she ran up the stairs, trying her best to see through the tears. Hagrid looked down at the bear. Stuffing was coming out of its ear as part of it had been torn away. Harry had noticed that at the bottom of Iris's ear there was a bit of her ear missing.
Hagrid took the cow from Emma, getting a squeal of anger from her. He then handed her the bear which was nearly as big as she was. Emma looked at it for a moment and then began sucking on its paw. Hagrid smiled, though he looked sad when he did.
"Looks like the li'l tyke likes it," he said softly. "Aherm. Well, best be off, then. Don' want her fallin' asleep b'fore we get teh the castle. Thanks again, Maggie, we'll see yeh termorrow," he said, shaking her hand once more.
"Not at all, Hagrid. All I did was keep her here for a few hours. You're the one that she likes. Bye, sweetheart. Have fun," Maggie said, leaning over and giving Emma a kiss on the cheek. "She'll be needing a bottle fairly soon, Hagrid, but it would be a bit of a snack, not dinner quite yet. It's only five. She usually likes dinner at about seven, just as she's going to sleep." Maggie sighed. "Oh, Hagrid, thank you so much for taking her. You may be her only chance out of here. Iris grew up here ever since she was born, quite literally. Five minutes after she was born, her mother already had the father going out for the adoptions papers. Of course, he never wanted to give her up. He's exactly like Iris is, but he's got the reddest hair I have ever seen. Poor bloke was heartbroken. No doubt that if he's still with her he's going to simply break down. Ah well. You'll seen them when the final papers come through. There always has to be at least one meeting with the parents if possible. Now, you be good, Little Miss Emma. And don't keep Hagrid up for too long or else he'll get up late and you'll have bweakfast wate, Baby Bumpkins."
"I have to say, Maggie, that you are the bravest woman I have ever known. I always thought that Mrs. Weasley was for having seven kids. But I have to give it to you, ma'am, you are the bravest for taking on so many kids at once," Hermione said, smiling at Maggie.
"Hermione, dear, please don't call me 'ma'am'. It makes me sound like I was a grandmum. Now Hagrid, don't think that you have to stick to what I told you exactly. Feel free to put her down for a nap, mind that she might not sleep as well during the night. If she's a bit extra hungry, give her a bottle. And it really wouldn't hurt her all that much if she had a little chocolate milk. She might get cranky every so often, but just pat her bottom or rub her back and she'll be fine. It's been nice meeting you, Molly, Remus, Harry, Ron, Hermione, but the worst part of the day has nearly come and I still have to think of something to feed everyone. Alan, Nick, Danny, Iris, Tammy, you lot are in charge of choosing what I'm giving to everyone tonight! You choose it, I'll make it! And don't exclude Iris this time, just because she's a vegetarian doesn't mean that she doesn't have an opinion! Scratch that, we're eating vegetarian tonight, so depend on Iris for help!" Maggie called up the stairs.
She turned back to the group. "About the night their parents come over, whatever night would be best for you, Hagrid. Oh, and feel free to bring many other people. I'm bringing all of the younger ones over to my cousin's house. Well, all of the babies will stay here, but give them a bottle and they'll be happy. So, you and your party will have to tell me your favorites or preferences. Have a nice night," Maggie said as the party started out the door.
During the ride home, Hagrid had held onto Emma very tightly so she wouldn't get hurt. Unfortunately, as they were stopping, Emma got her head hit by a pole. Emma began crying and sobbing and hiccupping and Hagrid was cooing like mad at her. Mrs. Weasley went mad at Stan and Ernie.
Harry laughed and nudged him. "Stop it, Mrs. Weasley," he said.
Hagrid laughed as well. "I'm thinkin' 'bout five or six years old. Prob'ly a boy. They're the funnest," he said.
"Oh, you may think they're fun, Hagrid, but they're very energetic. The fun wears off after a trial run," Mrs. Weasley warned.
"Ah well. I'm not that old yet. I'll manage," Hagrid said.
Within about twenty minutes, they arrived at the orphanage, which was a large Victorian house not far from the Weasley house. As soon as they arrived in the gravel driveway, they were greeted by a plump lady who looked to be about Mrs. Weasley's age.
"Hello. Hagrid, so nice to see you again," said the woman. She smiled at Ron, Hermione, Harry, Lupin, and Mrs. Weasley. "Sorry, I don't think we've all met."
"Oh, of course. How rude. I'm Molly Weasley, and this is my son, Ron. This here is Hermione, and that's Harry. Oh, sorry, Remus, I didn't see you there. And this is Remus Lupin," Mrs. Weasley quickly said.
The woman smiled and shook each other their hands. "Nice to meet you. Would you like some tea? It's a bit warm for herbal, but maybe iced tea would be best," she said. "Oh, by the way, I'm Maggie."
Maggie quickly let them into the house, which was literally crawling with children. Many were about four through ten years old. A set of twin girls, about one year old and wearing matching yellow outfits, waddled unsteadily about. Mrs. Weasley looked to be in heaven.
"Oh, look at you little darlings. Hi there, sweethearts," she cooed to the twins. They looked up, and Harry saw that they had bright blue eyes, as well as blond hair. "Oh, I might just steal you."
Maggie laughed. "Almost everyone that comes here says that about these two. But in truth, they are little terrors. When one cries, the other cries. It's a chain reaction like that with some of the triplets and other twins that are here," said she.
"Iris, dear, go make some iced tea for our guests," she called.
"Yes, Maggie. How many people?" came a girl's voice.
"Um… One, two, three… Um, seven, dear. Eight if you'd like to include yourself," said Maggie. She led them into the dining room, which was almost completely devoid of children, which seemed surprising.
"Er, just to be nosy, why aren't there as many children in here as around the yard and in the sitting room?" inquired Lupin.
"Remus, dear, that's simple. It's like that with a lot of children. Meal times are when the little ones have to sit and behave," explained Mrs. Weasley.
Maggie smiled at her. "I'm impressed," she said.
"Several of my own," replied Mrs. Weasley.
"Well, let's get right down to it, shall we? Hagrid, I know you're not very interested in babies, but they are my pride. Can we just have a quick little peek at them?" Maggie said, almost eagerly. She reminded Harry of Mrs. Weasley without the menopause.
"O' course," Hagrid said chipperly.
She led them up a flight of stairs and into a pink and blue room. There were ten cribs in the room, five on one side, and five on the other.
"This is my nursery. Nap time for all those ten months and younger," Maggie said proudly.
Mrs. Weasley clasped her hands together, looking ecstatic. "Oh, now you have gone and done it. Oh, look at all the little darlings," she cooed.
Something had come over Hermione as well. A soft look came over her eyes and she hurried over to the first crib that she could see and began cooing into it.
"Uh-oh, mate. The maternal instinct on Hermione has kicked in," Harry whispered to Ron, looking at Hermione. There wasn't any response. "Ron?" he asked, and looked over to his left.
Ron had gone off the deep end. He was cooing at a baby somewhere toward the middle. Harry had to clutch at his stomach to keep from falling on the floor with laughter. "Hey, Ron, can I get you your curlers?" he laughed.
Ron looked over from where he was holding the cackling baby up and nuzzling its face. "Huh?" he asked.
"You're a big weenie, Ron!" Harry laughed.
Ron gave him a look. "Oh, shut up, Harry. Look at this. Could you say no to this?" Ron said, holding the baby up by under his arms. A drip of drool hit the ground.
"Er, sure, mate."
"That's Dameon. He's just turned six months old. Such a big boy," Maggie said fondly.
"Taking care of all these children must cost a fortune," Mrs. Weasley said with wide eyes.
"Yes, but I can afford it. A blessing left us plenty of money, such a pity that she died. Left a good fourth of her and her husband's savings while they left the rest to their son," Maggie said, smiling. "And a fourth of it is one half more than we need here."
"What a saint. Do you remember her name?" asked Mrs. Weasley while she stroked a baby's cheek.
"Um, I can only remember her first name. But she had red hair and - erm, big green eyes. A pretty little number, she was. Quite young when she died… Oh, it was 'L' something…"
Harry's eyes widened. "Lily?" he inquired.
"That's it! Lily something… Oh, I can't remember her last name to save my life. Did you know her, dear? Her husband was - erm, rather tall, black hair, and… yellow-brown - hazel eyes," Maggie said, closing her eyes and trying to remember.
Everyone looked rather shocked.
"Did you know her, dear?" inquired Maggie again.
"She - she was my mum," Harry said quietly.
Maggie smiled. "Oh, what are the odds? Oh yes, I can see you have her eyes," she said. "This is rather exciting, isn't it? Well, you should be very proud of your mum, Harry. She was kind and wise beyond her years. Oh, I'm getting all gushy," Maggie said, quickly dabbing at her eyes. "Iris, dear!" she called.
In came a girl of about sixteen. She had brown hair and blue-green eyes. There was something familiar about her… Then Harry saw something peak out from underneath her hair - bat-like ears. It was the girl that they had met at St. Mungo's.
In front of the girl were the two twin girls, wide grins on their faces and they were soaking wet.
"Yes, Maggie?" Iris asked pleasantly.
"Oh dear, what happened?" Maggie asked, crouching down so the twins could waddle over to her.
"Oh, nothing. I just have another two for you, Warden. Caught outside with the hose. I think you can get the rest of it," said Iris. One of the twins waddled over to Iris and hugged her around the knees. "Yes, thank you for getting me wet, sweetie. Now, go on. Go get Alan to get you dry. I'll come with you guys," she said, and led the two out of the nursery. "Come on, you little ducks."
"Quack quack," said one of the twins. She waved at Harry before she left, and Harry wiggled his fingers in a wave.
"Isn't that the girl we met in St. Mun- er, the hospital?" said Ron.
"Yeah, I think it is. She was volunteering, remember? Wow, she volunteers for a lot of things," Hermione said.
Maggie wrinkled her nose. "Iris only helps out at a hospital, Hermione, dear. Iris lives here," she said. This shocked them quite a bit. "Anyway, I want to show you a very special little one," Maggie said, and led them to the crib farthest from the door but closest to the window. She leaned forward and lifted a very small baby out of the crib.
"This is little Emma. Only fwee days ode, huh, Emsy?" Maggie cooed.
"Aww. She's so young," Hermione said, her eyes wide.
"She's only just come home from the hospital. She was just dropped off here today. Mumma couldn't afford poor Baby. But she's a little gem out of the ruff," Maggie said, nuzzling the baby.
"Do you have any children of your own?" Hermione asked curiously.
Maggie shook her head and frowned. "Barren. But that's okay, because I get to watch all of these cuties grow up," she said, hugging the baby to her chest.
The infant newborn had a lot of hair for a baby. It was jet black and messy from her crib. She blinked a few times, and Harry saw that she had emerald green eyes.
Mrs. Weasley laughed. "Aw, Harry, she could be your baby. She looks so much like you."
Harry blushed. "I'm not really thinking of procreating just yet," he chuckled. The baby kicked and yawned, and Harry felt a sudden surge of paternal instinct from somewhere deep within. "But she is adorable," he added.
"Aw, look at the little gem. Er, Maggie, do yeh think I could hold her?" Hagrid said, grinning.
"Of course, Hagrid. There you are. Just hold her head up a little bit more. There. Nice and close to your chest, newborns love body warmth," instructed Maggie.
The infant clung to Hagrid's overcoat with tiny fingers as he cradled her.
"Oh, Hagrid, I think she likes you," Hermione said fondly.
"Tha's okay, 'cause I like her," Hagrid said, smiling at the infant. "Jus' a tiny thing, you are. A bug is p'tentially dangerous ter yeh, huh, Emma?" he cooed.
"I must admit, she's the cutest baby I have here," Maggie said, smiling.
"Cute as a button, sweet as a lamb, and twice as cuddly," Hagrid agreed. He nuzzled the baby's cheek. "Yeh know what? I reckon I'm goin' ter throw all me plans out the window. Emma's only the cutest thing I've ever seen," he said, looking up from the baby.
"You mean you're going to take her instead, Hagrid?" Hermione asked, biting her lower lip.
"I think so. I mean, if it's okay. If she's too little ter go anywhere, I'd understand," Hagrid said, looking over at Maggie.
Maggie grinned. "Oh, no. The sooner she's out of here, the sooner she'll be used to you - though I don't think that's any problem - and a whole new environment. Oh, look at that happy little face. Oh, well, now it's a slobbery little face." Maggie leaned over and wiped the baby's face with her sleeve. "Mind that there's a fair amount of paperwork that you'll have to go through. But it should only take a week or so to get all of the appropriate paperwork. After that it should only take a few more days to get it all done and cleared. Oh, but you'll basically have to fight her sister for her. This is Iris's sister. She's quite protective of her. But I'm sure she'll agree to it once she gets to know you a bit better. Mind that she'd be dropping by just about every day to make sure that her ickle Emmykins is all right. Now where would she be right now? Hmm, probably down by the forest," she said.
She led them out of the house (along with Emma) and out into the backyard, where there was a thick form of trees. Just by the edge of the forest sat Iris, stroking what appeared to be a young hippogriff. It squawked playfully and jumped on her.
Laughing, Iris pulled the hippogriff off of her. It reared back on its hind legs and landed its front half on her lap. "Oof! You silly little thing, you weigh too much. You're not a lap dog! Or any other kind of dog, now are you? Oh, hey Maggie and accomplices and Baby," she said, laughing as she hippogriff nuzzled her face, vying for her attention. "Easy, you weirdo." When Maggie didn't respond, Iris stopped smiling. "Maggie? What's wrong?"
"Why don't you lot go to the kitchen and ask one of the older kids to grab you your tea, all right? I think I better tell her by myself," Maggie said to the large group. They nodded and went back up to the large Victorian house. Maggie seated herself next to Iris and the hippogriff with Emma in her arms.
"What's the matter, Maggie?" Iris questioned, pushing the hippogriff off her. She took her younger sister from Maggie.
"Dear, you know that big bloke, Hagrid? Well, he's decided to take Emma," Maggie said gently.
The words resounded in Iris's mind emptily. Her ears perked up. "What? He - he wants my Emma? Well, you told him no, didn't you, Maggie?" she said quickly, holding the baby protectively.
Maggie sighed and put her hand on Iris's thigh. "Iris, dear, this may be her only chance to get out of here. And Hagrid is so kind and so good with her. She already loves him, Iris. And if I don't let Hagrid take her away from here, there's a very good chance that she'll have to grow up in the orphanage like you did," she said.
"No!" Iris said, jumping to her feet, Emma safely cradled in her arms. "No, Maggie, you can't let this happen! I've got two more years of school! I can raise her myself! Just keep her here, Maggie, please!" Iris found that there were tears in her eyes, but she didn't bother to brush them away. "He doesn't know her! Maggie, just watch her during the days. I'll pay you!" pleaded Iris.
Maggie remained sitting. "Iris, dear, I don't have a choice. I guarantee you that you can't find a sweeter person than Hagrid. He's even a professor at Hogwarts, you know," she said.
Iris paced for a while, thinking this over. The baby in her arms flopped a bit, and Emma squealed happily. "Shush," she told the infant. Iris stopped pacing. "Fine. If you're not going to listen to me, then I'm leaving. I'll start a new life somewhere else with Emma. Well, soon," she decided.
Before Maggie could respond, Iris had already started off at a trot. She wrenched the door open, and kept running with the baby humming to herself all the way to the kitchen. She looked around, and soon found the one called Hagrid, sitting down and enjoying a sandwich.
Iris looked down at her little sister, who was trying to get drops of water off of her. It was then that Iris realized that she was crying. Iris quickly wiped her eyes on the back of her hand. She strode over and set Emma in Hagrid's lap. Hagrid instinctively dropped the sandwich and grabbed the baby. He looked curiously up at Iris. She noticed that everyone was looking at her.
"Look. I have no clue who you are, and I'm not agreeing to this, but I want to try something. Let her sit with you for a minute," Iris said. Hagrid looked apologetic, and was going to say something, but decided against it. Instead, he lifted up the baby and lay her against his chest.
The baby snuggled up against Hagrid's chest and 'hmphed' contentedly.
Iris leaned over and picked the baby. She then set Emma down in Harry's lap. Emma began sniffling and sobbing softly. Iris picked the baby up and put her near Hagrid. Her cries soon stopped.
Iris looked horribly disappointed. "Very well then," she said. She was obviously trying to choke back tears. "I guess she's yours."
Without another word, Iris quickly left the room. She ran up the stairs and into her room. She shared it with seven other girls, so there were four bunk-beds. She locked the door and really didn't care if one of the other girls needed to get in there. She hurried to her bed on the bottom bunk and lay down and began to cry. She was losing her only sister, her baby sister. And worse yet, she was losing her to someone she didn't know and she'd probably never see her again.
Meanwhile…
Back downstairs, Hagrid was looking like he was going to cry. Mrs. Weasley was trying her best to comfort him. He sniffled as a large tear rolled off his face and into his mug.
"Oh, there, there, Hagrid, it's all right! Don't cry, it's okay! Hagrid please don't cry! Look, now Emma's crying, Hagrid, give her a hug," Mrs. Weasley said, gently patting his hand.
"I can't take her now. I can' break up a family," Hagrid sniffled. "Bu' I really want her." At this, Hagrid began to actually sob.
"Aww, it's okay, Hagrid. I'm sure Iris'll let you have her eventually. It's just going to take her a little while," Mrs. Weasley assured.
Hagrid sniffled and forced himself to stop sobbing. A tear ran down one of his cheeks and landed on the crying baby's head. Hagrid lightly patted her bottom. "Aw, c'mon now, smile. Don' do as I do, I'm a bad example. Look, tummy kisses," he offered. He lifted her up above his head and began kissing her stomach. Little Emma stopped crying and squealed.
Maggie came into the room, looking quiet somber. When she looked at Hagrid's teary face she 'awwed'. She went over and gave him a hug. "Poor Hagrid. Iris wasn't too hard on you, was she?"
"Nah. All she did was see if Emma really liked me. Bu' I don't think tha' I can really tear those two apart. It's like splittin'' a family apart, which it is," Hagrid said, nuzzling Emma's face. Maggie lightly patted his leg.
"Well, Hagrid, I'm quite sure that she will get over it. As long as she can see her just about every day. But I do believe that you need a bit more of a test, to see if you can handle a demanding newborn. I would very much like it if Emma stayed with you in your hut over night. With someone else in the hut through the night as well, if you wouldn't mind," Maggie said, making Hagrid grin.
"Really? I mean, no paperwork an' no signin' anything b'fore I can take her to me hut?" he asked with wide, hopeful eyes. Maggie chuckled and nodded. "When can I take her?"
"As soon as we go through things that she needs. First off, she'll get up about every two hours or so, starting at two or one. She'll be hungry and she uses a different kind of bottle, seeing as she's so young. It's got a plastic outside but the inside is just like a bag, basically, and it's filled with - erm, how to say this to you. Um, it's filled with Mummy juice, okay, Hagrid?" Maggie said, finding it hard to say the appropriate word in front of Hagrid. "It also works more like a Mummy. But she'll need a bath in the morning sometime and she'll need to be changed, and not just in clothes. I'll get her diaper bag ready and full of more than enough diapers you'll need to have a happy Emma. Oh, yes, and your little blankey, Emmakins, Maggie can't forget that. Six bags of milk for you as well, Snicklefritz, I'm not quite sure how much you like to eat just yet. And a blanket, maybe a pillow, but a small one. You're not quite fond of those yet," Maggie said, cooing to the baby.
"Hagrid, where are you going to find room in your hut for the baby's crib?" Mrs. Weasley asked curiously.
"Well, I don't exactly have a spare crib in me pocket, Molly. A lot o' everything else, but no crib. I'll make due. There's a perfect li'l space in a drawer o' mine. I can line it with blankets an' all things cushy. I'll make sure the sides are padded an' everything. I can move the whole dresser so it's right near me bed, too," Hagrid said, his eyes widening as his ideas got bigger. "O' course as soon as I can I'll get a decent crib fer the li'l angel. Do yeh think tha' Professor Dumbledore would have me hut increased in size?"
Hermione, Harry, and Ron nodded. "Definitely. I mean, he'd probably give you a goat if she needed it," Harry said, making Hagrid chuckle. "Er - not to be nosey or anything, but I was wondering how big she is."
"Well, sixteen and three-quarters inches, just a tiny baby. And she's three and a half pounds. Just a tiny little thing my Emmykins is, huh, precious?" Maggie cooed, gently stroking the baby's head.
Hagrid's eyes widened. "Why's she so small? Shouldn' she still be in the hospital?" he inquired quickly. "Three an' a half pounds isn't anythin' ter sneeze at."
"The doctors said it was okay that she left because she's also generally healthy. Just very tiny," Maggie said, kissing the baby's cheek.
"Hagrid, you're a bit puzzling. You came here all set to have a four-year old boy and you're getting a newborn baby girl!" Hermione said, giving him a puzzled look.
"Yeah, well, I didn' know she was goin' ter be here. The li'l angel," Hagrid said, grinning.
Harry saw Iris walk hurriedly by the room, and quickly followed.
"Where are you going, Harry?" inquired Mrs. Weasley concernedly.
Harry rolled his eyes. "Off to do myself in," he muttered so nobody could hear. "Bathroom," he said.
"To your left and the second door on your right," Maggie said pleasantly.
"Thanks," Harry mumbled before hurrying out of the room. Iris was walking quickly, and Harry had to jog to keep up. "Hey!" he called.
Iris stopped and turned around. "What?" she asked.
"Hagrid is my friend and he's a damn good person and why don't you trust him with your sister?" Harry demanded.
"Look. I'm sure he's an okay person. But he's taking my sister. I've had a few hours to myself with her, and that's it. And you expect me to hand her over without any argument? I won't be able to look at her again without wishing that she was mine and only mine. He has her for the rest of her life. I only had her for a couple of hours. Think about it," Iris said simply before walking away.
This time, however, Harry didn't go after her. Instead, he walked back to the nursery where Hagrid was cradling and cooing at Emma. Emma seemed to be enjoying this as she sucked happily on a pacifier, which looked much too big for her minute mouth.
"Who's jus' a pretty girl, Emma?" Hagrid cooed.
"Hmmm," Emma cooed back.
"Yeah, yeh know yeh're pretty. Yeh're jus' bein' modest, huh?" Hagrid said, giving the baby a whiskery kiss on the cheek. Before he could pull back, Emma had grabbed onto his hair and was nuzzling against his hair. Hagrid laughed and kissed her forehead. "Precious," he said, looking at her. The newborn stopped and looked up at him with wide green eyes. She yawned and gave everyone a perfect view of her gums.
Mrs. Weasley seemed to break at this. "Oh, you're going to be such a little heartbreaker, my darling. Come here to Auntie Molly," she said. Mrs. Weasley took Emma from Hagrid, who looked hesitant.
"Dust a wittle angel baby, huh, Emma? Do 'oo have a middle name, popkin?" Mrs. Weasley cooed, nuzzling the baby's face.
"No, she only got a first name from her mummy. So, Hagrid, you have to give Emma here a middle name," Maggie said, beaming at Hagrid. His brow furrowed.
"Hmm. I think tha' Lee would fit this beauty best, don't yeh think? Harry, why are yeh lookin' so down? Yer no' thinking' o' - er…" Hagrid said, noticing Harry's frown and look of utter boredom. Harry rolled his eyes.
"No, Hagrid, just thinking about what Iris said, if it makes much difference," Harry said, looking even more bored if possible.
"What? What did she say, Harry?" Maggie said, looking very interested.
"She's pissed because Hagrid's going to have her for the rest of Emma's life while she only got to see her for a few hours and about how she's not going to be able to see her again not wishing that she was with her," Harry said dully.
"Well, o' course she's goin' ter see Emma. It's not like I'm heartless. Iris can come an' see the baby whenever she wants," Hagrid said. "Well, it might not be in my bes' interest if she came in the middle o' the night, but tha's okay too."
Maggie got Hagrid everything that he'd need to take care of Emma with. Harry and Hermione were to stay with Hagrid that night, to help him with Emma. Hagrid was overjoyed when they were about to leave, as he was helping bundle Baby Emma up.
"Aww, yeh look jus' like a li'l marshmallow, Emsy," Hagrid cooed, gently stroking her cheek. "So we're takin' the Knight Bus back? All righ', then, kiddo, yer goin' ter sit in me lap so yeh don't go flyin' out the window, 'kay? 'Kay."
"Oh, look at the little precious angel. Isn't she just darling?" Mrs. Weasley said, beaming at the tiny infant.
"Thanks, Maggie. I'll bring her back 'round eleven. I'll send an owl if I've got any problems tha' this lot can't help me with," Hagrid said, holding the baby on his hip so he could shake Maggie's hand. As he did, Emma contented herself with digging around in his pockets. She began pulling something out that squeaked loudly in protest. When she did, Harry saw that she had a scaly bald tail in her tiny fist. She shook it happily.
Harry hurried over and picked the baby up, putting the supposed rat back in Hagrid's pocket. Emma was now looking at her hand, which had a scraggly scratch on it. She began sniffling.
Harry bounced the baby girl gently and tried to calm her. "Ssh, come on, now. It's okay. Here, let me see, Emma, let me see. Well that's not so bad. But it must sting, considering that this is probably your first owie, huh?" he said gently.
Mrs. Weasley hurried over. "Oh, poor baby. Hold still, angel. Immendo. There, that's better, isn't it? And you don't even have a little scar! Look at that," she cooed gently. There was loud rapping at the window and Harry saw Fawkes standing outside the window. Mrs. Weasley took the little girl from Harry so he could get to Fawkes. The large bird flew into the room and affectionately nipped at Harry's ear. He stuck out his foot which had a piece of parchment attached. Harry opened it up and read aloud:
"Hagrid or anyone else you is reading this, Firstly, Hagrid, congratulations on your new little boy. You said that he would be about six or so, so I cannot wait until he is eleven years old and when he can start school here. Everyone, and when I say everyone, I mean it, is in the staff room waiting for you to tell us about your new little boy. Maybe a few hundred pictures of so would satisfy our growing curiosity. If possible, it would make us all feel much better if you would be able to borrow the little boy for a hour or two. Congratulations once more, Hagrid. Dumbledore."
Hagrid chuckled. "Well aren't there goin' ter be a few surprised faces when they take a look at yer cute little face, huh? Probably even more surprised when they take a peek in yer diaper. Oh, wait, I nearly fergot, yeh li'l cutie. I brough' summat fer yeh. If I can only find it," Hagrid dug around in his pockets for a little while before pulling out a black and white cow with small horns. It was a plush toy and it made Mrs. Weasley aww. He very gently took Baby Emma from her and cradled her in one arm while he gently rubbed the cow against her cheek. She hummed a little bit and then tried to hold it.
"Watch this, Emma," Hagrid said, beaming as he squeezed the cow's middle. MOOOO! went the cow. Emma's eyes went wide and she squealed. Everyone chuckled at this. Hagrid carefully handed the infant the cow. The kitchen door opened and an unexpected face came through the door, holding a stuffed bear.
Iris was looking at the floor as she handed Hagrid the bear. "It's the only thing I have of our mum's. I think she needs it more than I do." Just after saying this, she ran up the stairs, trying her best to see through the tears. Hagrid looked down at the bear. Stuffing was coming out of its ear as part of it had been torn away. Harry had noticed that at the bottom of Iris's ear there was a bit of her ear missing.
Hagrid took the cow from Emma, getting a squeal of anger from her. He then handed her the bear which was nearly as big as she was. Emma looked at it for a moment and then began sucking on its paw. Hagrid smiled, though he looked sad when he did.
"Looks like the li'l tyke likes it," he said softly. "Aherm. Well, best be off, then. Don' want her fallin' asleep b'fore we get teh the castle. Thanks again, Maggie, we'll see yeh termorrow," he said, shaking her hand once more.
"Not at all, Hagrid. All I did was keep her here for a few hours. You're the one that she likes. Bye, sweetheart. Have fun," Maggie said, leaning over and giving Emma a kiss on the cheek. "She'll be needing a bottle fairly soon, Hagrid, but it would be a bit of a snack, not dinner quite yet. It's only five. She usually likes dinner at about seven, just as she's going to sleep." Maggie sighed. "Oh, Hagrid, thank you so much for taking her. You may be her only chance out of here. Iris grew up here ever since she was born, quite literally. Five minutes after she was born, her mother already had the father going out for the adoptions papers. Of course, he never wanted to give her up. He's exactly like Iris is, but he's got the reddest hair I have ever seen. Poor bloke was heartbroken. No doubt that if he's still with her he's going to simply break down. Ah well. You'll seen them when the final papers come through. There always has to be at least one meeting with the parents if possible. Now, you be good, Little Miss Emma. And don't keep Hagrid up for too long or else he'll get up late and you'll have bweakfast wate, Baby Bumpkins."
"I have to say, Maggie, that you are the bravest woman I have ever known. I always thought that Mrs. Weasley was for having seven kids. But I have to give it to you, ma'am, you are the bravest for taking on so many kids at once," Hermione said, smiling at Maggie.
"Hermione, dear, please don't call me 'ma'am'. It makes me sound like I was a grandmum. Now Hagrid, don't think that you have to stick to what I told you exactly. Feel free to put her down for a nap, mind that she might not sleep as well during the night. If she's a bit extra hungry, give her a bottle. And it really wouldn't hurt her all that much if she had a little chocolate milk. She might get cranky every so often, but just pat her bottom or rub her back and she'll be fine. It's been nice meeting you, Molly, Remus, Harry, Ron, Hermione, but the worst part of the day has nearly come and I still have to think of something to feed everyone. Alan, Nick, Danny, Iris, Tammy, you lot are in charge of choosing what I'm giving to everyone tonight! You choose it, I'll make it! And don't exclude Iris this time, just because she's a vegetarian doesn't mean that she doesn't have an opinion! Scratch that, we're eating vegetarian tonight, so depend on Iris for help!" Maggie called up the stairs.
She turned back to the group. "About the night their parents come over, whatever night would be best for you, Hagrid. Oh, and feel free to bring many other people. I'm bringing all of the younger ones over to my cousin's house. Well, all of the babies will stay here, but give them a bottle and they'll be happy. So, you and your party will have to tell me your favorites or preferences. Have a nice night," Maggie said as the party started out the door.
During the ride home, Hagrid had held onto Emma very tightly so she wouldn't get hurt. Unfortunately, as they were stopping, Emma got her head hit by a pole. Emma began crying and sobbing and hiccupping and Hagrid was cooing like mad at her. Mrs. Weasley went mad at Stan and Ernie.