Chapter 22: Wedding Plans And Discussions

Harry, Hermione, and Sirius slowly became accustom to having the extra people in their home; and, the visitors were getting better at giving them their space. Even though there were still the rumors of a threat, the members of the order were becoming more relaxed as long as Harry, Hermione, and Sirius stayed on the grounds. This alone pleased Sirius. He liked spending time in the garden, sometimes he would walk around admiring the plants and sometime, like right now he would just sit and read.

He didn't know how long he'd been sitting in the light green and blue striped chaise when Hermione came out. She moved his feet just a bit and sat down to face him. "Are you planning on staying out here all night?"

He looked up from his reading with a smile. "It's such a nice evening, I might do just that."

Hermione swatted at him before leaning in for a kiss. "Well I've been sent to inform you dinner will be ready in 30 minutes and you better not be late."

"I'll be there," Sirius noticed the notebook in her hand. "What's that?" he asked pointing to the small wire bound tablet.

"Nothing really. Just some notes I've made for the wedding, things to talk about with everyone tomorrow night." She started to get up but was held in place with a gentle hand on her knee.

Sitting up and sliding to the edge of the chair Sirius reached for her notes. "May I?" Hermione smiled a huge smile and proceeded to show and explain each and every item written in the pages. It made her extremely happy that he wanted to be apart of the plans. She had worried that he would tell her to just do whatever she wanted, but as they talked he told her his likes and dislikes of her plans. He gave her suggestions on other things. Time seemed to fly and it wasn't long before Alyssa came to tell the couple Molly wanted them for dinner.

Saturday arrived and Molly Weasley was busy in the kitchen when Hermione strolled in to start her day. "Good Morning, Dear." Molly announced.

"Good Morning. You're up early." Hermione said as she poured herself a cup of coffee. She noticed the older woman was already cooking and whatever it was smiled yummy. Moving to stand closer Hermione asked, "What smells so wonderful?"

"I'm making a breakfast casserole so everyone can eat as they awaken. Once it's done I'm going to start on the food for tonight." Molly said as she began to set out plates and cups.

Smiling Hermione stilled the older ladies moving hands. "Mrs. Weasley, to night is a cook out. Sirius will cook outside."

"Oh I know, dear, but he can't cook everything out there. Some of it will need to be prepared inside. Not to mention the hamburgers will need to be formed, bratwursts need to be boiled, and salads made. I'll just do what I can to help." Molly said opening the cupboard and taking out cans.

 

Realizing she couldn't win this battle Hermione grabbed a slice of toast, a cup of coffee, and retreated to the den. It wasn't long before Remus joined her. "Hey, Remus," she said not looking up from her notebook.

"Hey yourself." He replied taking a seat next to her. "What do you have there?"

"Notes for the wedding. Things I'd like to have, things Sirius would like to see happen. A list of who we want to stand up with us. I've also started writing a guest list, but I can't get him to tell me whom he wants to invite. All he'll say is anyone close to him is already invited because they are in the wedding." Hermione said with a deep sigh.

Remus chuckled. He knew how Sirius could be, but he understood his best friends way of thinking. "Don't let him exasperate you. It's not that he doesn't want to give you a list of people. It's more like who does he invite, who does he know that you don't. The only ones I can think of he wouldn't walk across the street to see so why would he want them to be at the most important day of his life, his wedding. It's not like he has any family left or at least none he's close to or claims." He slouched down in the couch and Hermione followed. Remus put his arm around her as he went on. "The way I see it Sirius has done such a good job this year of adjusting to his normal life, that we sometimes forget about his past. Things have gone so well and we've become accustom to good things happening, that I think all of us occasionally forget that until this year his life was a mess. He's lost so much and spent so many years away from people that friendly relationships weren't important to him. He didn't have a chance to get to know people. People who, if they would take the time to get to know him, would see what a warm, loving, and amazing man he his, but these same people are afraid of him and won't give him a chance because of his past. A past that for the most part he had absolutely no control over. So it doesn't surprise me he won't give you names, it's more like can't. Right now you, Albus, Minerva, Harry, the Weasleys, and I are the only people he feels comfortable with."

Hermione was quiet for a long time. Playing over and over what Remus had said in her mind. Without saying a word she reached up and kissed her favorite ex-professor on the cheek. No other words were needed on this subject, so she decided to change it. "Remus, how are things with Alexia?"

The older man smiled a brilliant smile. One Hermione had never seen coming from Remus. "She's well, thank you. She'll be here in a little while. I might ask her to stay for a few days if it's okay with you and Sirius."

"You know it's okay. Neither Sirius nor I would mind. You and your guests are always welcome here. Besides it will be a chance for us to get to know her better, especially if she is going to be a part of your life and from the look on your face, I'm guessing things are getting rather serious?"  The young witch raised an eyebrow.

"We'll see," was the only comment he made. The pair sat in silence for a long period of time, she writing in her notebook, he reflecting on his own relationship. Finally Remus stood, kissed Hermione on the top of her head. "It's getting close to noon, I better go check on things. Make sure our boy isn't giving Tonks or Mad-eye any trouble. See you later." Not waiting for a response he left in search of his best friend.

As five-thirty approached, everyone kept busy preparing for Hermione and Sirius' families. Hermione had her hands full trying to keep Mrs. Weasley from over cooking, while Mr. Weasley worked on keeping the twins under control. Sirius showed Remus and Harry how to use the muggle gas grill. He prided himself on how good he was becoming at doing several things the muggle way. He'd promised Hermione that when her side of the family was around he'd do his best to make sure they were comfortable. They knew Hermione and the others were magical, but they didn't always have to do things the magical way. 

Several things seemed to happen all at the same time.  The door bell rang announcing guests had arrived, Fred and George tried a new prank that turned the yellow roses in the garden into snapdragons that really tried to snap at people, and Molly put bones from the chicken they'd had for lunch into the garbage disposal.

Wondering what else could go wrong Sirius made his way to door. Opening it he found not only Hermione's parents, grandmother, and her friend but also his grandparents and to his complete surprise and disgust they'd brought along Severus Snape. When everyone had entered, Sirius was about to escort them to the garden when the house shook, an explosion came from outside, and Harry came sailing through the Library doors.

Everyone ran to where the young wizard sat rubbing his head and laughing. "Bloody Hell, Harry, are you all right?" Sirius asked concern written all over his face. Before Harry could answer, the women were charging in from the kitchen.

Harry stood, brushed himself off, looked at his godfather, and smiled. "Yeah I'm good." With out any farther explanation he ran back outside yelling, "Guys that was bloody brilliant. Can we do that again?"

Sirius looked around the room, everyone who knew them said at the same time, "The Twins."

Alexia said she would take Molly back into the kitchen and she, Ginny, and Alyssa would help her with the rest of dinner; Sirius took Remus and the other men to the garden while he began cooking. Mr. Granger took an immediate liking to Arthur and they strolled the garden. Hermione sat in the library with her mother, grandmother, and Minerva going over what she and Sirius had already talked about.

In the garden, Sirius kept an eye on Snape wondering what he was doing there. His grandparents knew the two men hated each other, so what would have possessed them to bring him. Finally he took his grandfather aside. "With all do respect, grandfather, what's Snape doing here?"

Dumbledore looked at the other man then back at his grandson. "I brought him because he has some information on Malfoy and his plan. Plus it's time the two of you buried the hatchet and got along."

Sirius snorted, "The only hatchet he wants to bury is the one he plants in my back."

The Hogwarts headmaster gave his grandson a look of warning, and his tone was unmistakable. "I want you to get along with Severus. This feud has gone on long enough. As MY grandson, I am counting on you to put an end to it. You don't have to become his best friend, but you DO have to get along with him. Am I making myself clear?"

"Yes, Sir." Before he could say anything more, Remus and Severus walked over.

"Sirius, you need to listen to Severus. He has some information on Malfoy." Remus said giving him the same look Dumbledore had given him just a few minutes earlier.

Opening the grill and flipping the hamburgers, Sirius said, "Lay it on me, what's my dear cousin's neurotic husband up too?"

Snape smiled a small smile and began. "As the headmaster has no doubt told you, Lucius Malfoy has heard while in Azkaban that you are Professor Dumbledore's heir. This isn't making him happy. He knows that with Black blood and now Dumbledore blood, that you will, when your training with the Order is finished, be the strongest and most powerful wizard in the wizarding world. He knows of the prophecy that says the most powerful wizard of the twentieth century will be the off spring of two powerful wizarding families and for a time completely unaware of one. Away from the wizarding world for at least ten years, returning to find strength and power from unlikely sources, one such source will be muggle born."

Sirius couldn't believe what he was hearing. He looked at his grandfather, and then turned to look at Hermione who was in the library smiling and talking to her mum. "Go on, Severus."

"Malfoy is afraid that if you are allowed to complete your training you will be this wizard and that will not look good for him when he gets out of Azkaban next year. He's also been given the information of your relationship with Ms. Granger." Snape pulled up a stool and sat down before continuing. "As of this point he is only having you, Ms Granger, and Mr. Potter watched in hopes of learning your habits. He knows that Dumbledore knows he's watching you and has told his followers that none of you are to be touched… for now. He wants to come up with what he calls a fool proof plan to destroy you. I would not put it past him to go after Ms. Granger first."

Sirius flipped the burgers and brats again and let out long slow breathe. "I'll just have to make sure Hermione stays safe. If he wants me, that's a different story, he can come after me with everything he's got, but only someone truly evil uses innocent people."  He stood a little straighter. "We'll all just make sure we change out routines daily. No two days will ever be alike. Neither Hermione nor Harry will go out without someone with them. I trust you will keep us informed when new information is available?"  Severus nodded.

Hermione walked out, just as the conversation was ending. She saw the look on Sirius' face and knew he'd been told something he didn't like, but she also knew now wasn't the time to ask him about it. He'd tell her when the time was right, but for now she would keep her eyes and ears open. "Molly and the girls have everything ready. How are the burgers coming?"

Sirius handed Snape a plate full of meat. "The first tray is ready. I'll bring the second one in a few minutes."

Hermione called everyone to dinner. When the last of their guest had gone into the dining room she stood in the library watching the man she loved deep in thought and from his expression, they weren't good thoughts.

Dinner went extremely well. Everyone got along and the conversations stayed friendly. As she looked around this group of family and friends, Hermione was pleased at the way everyone was getting on. Sirius seemed to have pulled himself together and surprised everyone when he sat next to Snape and the two talked civil all through dinner. Molly was constantly jumping up to get something that needed refilling. Harry, Ron, Ginny, and Alyssa were continually laughing at the twins. Remus had joined in on the conversation between Snape and Sirius, while Alexia talked quietly to the Dumbledore's and her own grandmother. At the end of the table, Arthur sat questioning Mrs. and Mr. Granger on the ways of muggle life. She looked up and caught Sirius' eye. He smiled, the smile he saved for her. The smile that lit up his whole existence. Then and there she knew that whatever had been bothering him he'd worked it out in his head. Smiling to herself she blew him a kiss and turned to listen to Reginald as he told a funny story about her grandmother.

When everyone had finished their dinner, Sirius and Remus started to clear the table, but Molly Weasley wouldn't hear of them doing it. She told everyone to go into the other room while she cleaned up, that she would bring in some coffee when she was finished.

Those involved in planning Hermione and Sirius' wedding were seated comfortably in the living room, while those not involved retired to the game room.

Hermione opened her date book and handed Sirius his. She made sure everyone had the correct date written down. She also set up times to meet with Ginny and the other bridesmaids to look for dresses and decide on fitting. Now she just had to decide who the other attendants would be. She knew Ginny would be her maid of honor, and she wanted to ask Alyssa. Her mum was set on Hermione asking her cousins, but she wasn't sure she wanted them.

"Hermione dear, you know you should have Celeste, Julie, and Margaret. It's best to keep it family." Her Mum had said.

Rolling her eyes as she looked over at Sirius, she replied. "Maybe it's best to keep it in the family, but I don't want them in my wedding. They are loud and obnoxious." She looked from her parents to Remus. "Actually I was thinking since Sirius has already asked Harry, Remus, and Ron, I would go with Ginny, Alyssa and Alexia." No one knew she had actually already spoken to all three and each has said yes.

Smiling Mrs. Granger said, "Well of course you may have whom ever you want. It is your wedding. Maybe you can ask your cousins to do something at the reception?"

Before Hermione could say another word Sirius spoke up. "I'm sure we can find something for them to do. Anyone who wants to be involved should have the chance." He looked over at his future wife. She saw he was trying to keep everyone happy and this brought a smile to her face.

The group spent the next two hours making plans. The biggest hurdle was where to have the reception.  Hermione knew she wanted to be married in the church she had grown up in. The same church she and Sirius now attended once in a while, but she also wanted Professor Dumbledore to perform the wizarding side of the ceremony. This would have to be discussed with the pastor of the church, but she didn't see a problem since he knew she was also part of the wizarding world. Sirius suggested the local park for the reception. It had a beautiful clubhouse they could use if it rained, but otherwise why not have it outside. Everyone seemed to think this was a great idea. Guest lists were talked over and Minerva and Albus gave her a few names to invite. People they knew that knew Sirius when he was younger. Minerva said it would only be proper to at least invite them.

"Now that we have the date, time, location and attendants, what's next? Colors. Sirius and I have talked about this and since it will be in September I was thinking a fall colors." Hermione said.

"Oh no, dear, that won't do. You want pastels like pink for your wedding." Mrs. Granger said.

"Wait one minute here." Hermione's grandmother chimed in looking straight at her daughter. "This is Hermione's wedding. If she wants the colors to be fall colors then so be it. You had your wedding your way, let her have hers her way." She then turned to her granddaughter. "Go on, honey, what do you and Sirius want. You tell us and we'll make it happen."

"Thank you, Grandmother." The group talked for a few more minutes. "Well I think that about does it. We have shopping dates planned and you guys can get together for Tux fittings. I'm sure there will be several things to work out later, but for now we have a good start."

The Men went to the basement and the women stayed up stairs for a short time, and then slowly people began to leave. Just before Snape exited Sirius took him aside and spoke quietly for several minutes. This struck Hermione as strange, but she, again, decided to wait until they were alone to ask him about it.

When everyone had gone Hermione went out into the garden to find Sirius. He was talking with Remus and Alexia. He saw her as she closed the door behind herself. "Where are Harry and the others?" He asked.

"Harry, Ron and Ginny are down stairs watching a movie. Your grandparents were going to talk with Arthur a minute then they were escorting Alyssa home. The Weasley's are going back to the Burrow tonight for a few days, but Ginny and Ron are staying here." She moved to sit by Alexia. "What are you up to Sirius?"

He looked at her a little confused. "What do you mean? I'm talking to these two."

"Don't play dumb with me, Sirius Black. You and Snape? You hate each other so why did you two have your heads together all evening? Don't think about lying to me, I always know when you don't tell the truth." Hermione said with a raised eyebrow.  

"Grandfather asked me to try and get along with him so I am." He gave her a look and she dropped the subject. She'd gotten very good at reading his expressions.

Alexia and Remus told Sirius and Hermione about their relationship and how it was working out. Hermione watched and noticed how happy they looked. It wasn't long before they announced they were ready to retire for the night. Hermione showed Alexia where everything she might need was. She then said her good nights and went to her own room to dress for bed.

Thirty minutes later she headed back down stairs to say good night to Sirius. She was tired it had been a long day. Walking into the library she expected to find him, but he wasn't there. She knew he wouldn't be in the game room; he didn't like the movie the others were watching. She checked three other rooms before entering the den. There he was, sitting on the plush, butterscotch leather couch reading a book, a book she'd never seen before. Sitting next to him she ran her fingers through the hair at his left temple. "Hey handsome."

Smiling he turned his head to kiss her hand. "Hey yourself."

"What are you reading?" She asked picking the book up off his lap.

"It's a book of Spells, not everyday spells but advanced spells. It also contains some potions and charms." He knew he was about to get more questions. Especially when he told her where he got it.

She put the large leather bound book back on his leg. "Snape give you this?" He nodded. "What is going on with you and him? I've never seen either of you even stay in the same room if you don't have too, but tonight we couldn't pry you two apart." He started to open his mouth, but before he could Hermione added. "And don't tell me your grandfather wants you to be nice to him."

Sirius put the book back on the table and turned to look at his lover. "Well grandfather did tell me I had to try and get along with him, so I am but tonight it was all about working together to protect people I care about." He saw her perplexed look and told her everything Professor Snape had told them earlier. When he was finished he added, "I want you to make sure when you leave here you take someone with you and you change your pattern of doing things daily. There should be no routine at all. Nothing anyone can figure out. Okay? Promise me!"

"I promise." She leaned in and kissed him. "Do Snape and Dumbledore think any of us are in danger right now?"

"No not at the moment. Severus is sure he'll know before Malfoy tries anything. So we just have to stay on out toes." He thought for a few minutes then added. "Tomorrow I want to get each of us one of those cell phones."

Hermione felt relieved that there was at least a small plan in place and that for now there was no real threat. Being watched wasn't fun, but at least no orders to harm had been issued. Again she kissed Sirius this time passionately. "I'm exhausted love, I'm going to bed."

"Sounds like a good idea." He said standing and taking her hand. Sirius stopped in front of his bedroom door and opened it. Without a word the lovers stepped inside, and shut out the world around them.

A few minutes later Harry walked down the hall on his way to bed, has he passed his godfathers door he heard a soft voice whisper. "I thought you were exhausted?" and an answer "Never to tired for you, love." Harry smiled to himself and went into his room. He was happy they had found love in each other.