Lucky's Charms -
Ginny sat her glass of lemonade down at the table. Looking around the Three Broomsticks, she caught the eye of Madam Rosemerta and waved for the check. "So when do I get to come see the new nursery?" asked Ginger, placing her glass on the table. "As soon as we finish setting it up. The furniture only arrived last night and we haven't had the chance to put everything in order." said Ginny, turning her attention back to her old friend. "Well look what we have here, double trouble if I ever saw it," came a deep male voice from behind Ginny. Instantly knowing who the voice belonged to, Ginny turned her head around, "Hi Colin," she said smiling up at him. Colin placed a warm hand on Ginny's shoulder squeezing gently as he leaned in to kiss her cheek. "How are you feeling today?" Colin asked giving her a once over with his eyes. "I'm fine Colin; you're getting as bad as everyone else. I'm healthy and happy," Ginny said, patting Colin's hand on her shoulder before he let it drop. He moved to kiss Ginger on the cheek, then sat on a chair between his wife and Ginny. "And the healer says I have excellent birthing hips," Ginny said dryly.
Ginger snorted into her drink, working hard on keeping down the smile that was battling to over come her. Colin's eyes briefly glanced down at Ginny's hips before he caught himself and looked away quickly, unfortunately not quick enough to avoid being caught by both women. "Oh, I know you didn't just check out her hips," Ginger said rolling her head slightly, looking her husband up and down in mock anger. Colin looked embarrassingly out the window for a brief moment before looking at his wife, "Of course not dear," he said in a straight face. "Liar," Ginny laughed. "Well you mentioned it! What am I supposed to do?" Colin said helplessly. "Typical male," said Ginger, shaking her head.
Ginger looked at Ginny giving her a half wink which Ginny returned. "Oh Ginny I give up, I know the truth of it all, why pretend anymore." Ginger said melodramatically, placing her hand palm up on the table. Ginny took Ginger's hand in her own with an overly pained expression, "Why Ginger, what could you be talking about?" Colin looked back and forth between the two women in half amusement half exasperation. "Admit it; you're cheating on me... with..." Ginger paused for dramatic affect taking a deep breath, "With Colin!" she cried out before burying her face into her free hand. You could see a broad smile appear behind her palm. "Oh Ginger, I can't lie any longer," Ginny said squeezing Ginger's hand, "It's all true, but Colin and I have talked, and we want you to join in our little love-fest. We'll be one happy family, you, me and Colin." Ginny said in an overly breathy voice.
Colin groaned and looked around the room to make sure no one else was watching the embarrassing display.
Ginger looked up from between her fingers, "Do you mean it?" Ginny bit her lip nodding. "Yes, you get him Monday and Wednesday. I'll get him Tuesday and Thursday, it will be just the two of us Friday, Saturday and Sunday." said Ginny, batting her eyes looking suggestively at Ginger. "Oh Ginny!" Ginger cried out. "Oh Ginger" Ginny cried out. Both women turned their heads at the same time each grabbing a hand of the now completely humiliated Colin who at that point in time was appearing to try and melt through the chair. "Oh Colin!" the women said in unison. "Oh lord," Colin groaned rolling his eyes heavenward.
A table of men near by began chuckling at the display, "Lucky bloke" one man said before returning to his ale. "Alright you two," said Colin, standing up, "We need to get going, Ginger. Especially if you want time to get ready for dinner at my parents'." he said looking down at his wife. Ginny and Ginger continued to laugh as Ginger joined her husband in standing up. "We're going to be meeting this new girl Dennis has started dating," said Ginger, slipping the strap of her hand bag over her shoulder. "He does seem to be overly happy these days at the joke shop." said Ginny, leaning down to pick up her bag. "He didn't even complain when the twins tried their newest product out on him last week. You would think one would mind a two foot purple tale." Ginny said shaking her head.
Madam Rosemerta arrived with the check for the girl's drinks and placed it on the table. Both Ginger and Ginny reached for the bill at the same time. "I'll get it," Ginny said trying to pull the slip of parchment away. "No I'll get it," Ginger tugged on her end of the parchment. "What, are you trying to distress a pregnant woman? Give me the bill." Ginny said pulling again. "Of course I'm not; I'm trying to ease the woes of a woman in your condition. Now hand it over Potter." said Ginger, tugging again. Colin grunted, snatching the parchment out of both of their hands, "I'll get it," he said digging in his pocket for his change purse, "And no arguments," he looked pointedly at Ginny and she promptly snapped her jaw shut. "I call dibs on next time," said Ginny quickly, looking triumphant at Ginger's scowl that she had been beaten to the call. "Fine, but I'm ordering more than tea next time. You're coughing up for a whole meal toots." said Ginger, giving Ginny a mock glare. "Done," Ginny said nodding her head as she slowly stood up. "Here," said Colin sticking out his hand for Ginny. She gratefully took it getting to her feet.
After setting up a lunch date with Ginger, Ginny parted ways with her friends outside the front door of the tavern. Colin and Ginger had tried to convince Ginny to allow them to walk her back, but she firmly refused stating that if there was any trouble many shops were only but a few feet away and she could get help. Reluctantly they agreed after Ginny threatened to hex them if they didn't stop treating her like an invalid.
The weather had grown increasingly warmer as spring firmly took hold over the land. Ginny shrugged off her light weight cloak and draped it over her shoulder as she made her way down the street. With the addition of the twins weight to carry, Ginny noticed herself becoming hot quiet often. Ginny paid no real mind to those who passed by as she watched the trees around her, well into their bloom. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to inhale the wonderful scent of mother earth awakening. A tall figure of a man brushed past her as she glanced down at a budding peony bush, the twins gave a sudden jerk within her causing Ginny to falter in step. "Kitten?" she heard barely over a whisper from behind her. Only one person had ever called her that, never with her permission. A shadow of tingling cold shot up through her spine as the twins grew extremely still within her.
Ginny turned around slowly coming face to face with a man she thought she'd never again encounter after the fall of Voldermort. Draco Malfoy stood before her with a look of shock and complete surprise written across his handsome face. He stood tall in his tailored clothes, his white-blond hair perfectly cut slightly falling into his eyes as he looked down at Ginny, surveying her. Ginny's hand unconsciously went protectively to her swollen stomach bringing Draco's grey eyes to stay even longer on her abdomen. A haunted look flashed briefly though his eyes. Without thought Draco slowly reached out gingerly to touch her stomach. Ginny took an automatic step back looking at his hand which lingered in the air for a few moments where her stomach had been before dropping to his side. Her eyes went from his hand up to his face once more, a look of pain and sadness was evident for the briefest of moments.
The silence was awkward between them as Ginny searched for something polite to say. "How have you been?" Ginny asked for lack of anything better coming to mind. Draco stared, fixated on her stomach, for several more moments before he tore his gaze upward to look at her while answering her question. "I am well." he said, a distant look held in his eyes, his voice was emotionless. After several uncomfortable moments Ginny finally spoke again, "Well I should be getting back." Ginny turned to leave when he spoke again, this time his voice hinting of urgency, "Are you happy?" Ginny stopped and turned back to see Draco once again staring at her swollen form, this time an inner struggle was evident in his tense features.
Ginny sighed, "I could be no happier nor more in love. With Harry my soul is complete." For a moment it looked as if Draco was on the verge of saying something before the all too familiar mask slid down over his features once more. "If you'll excuse me, I must be off," said Draco, without waiting for her reply he strode away.
Ginny watched him until he was beyond her sight. Ginny sighed glancing down at the budding peony bush before looking heavenward as large fluffy white clouds floated past. "Please fates, bring him happiness," she whispered, slowly closing her eyes for a moment. Her attention was brought quickly back by the twins turning within her. "I see you agree," said Ginny, gently patting her stomach, "Let's just hope the fates listen." With one last look at the empty sidewalk she turned back making her way to the twins' shop.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Harry, could you move it to the left a bit more?" said Ginny, as she surveyed the nursery furniture. Harry gave her an exasperated look but otherwise made no mention of the fact that this was the fourth time he'd moved the rocking chair ending it back where it had first started. "Thank you, that's perfect." said Ginny giving him a warm smile. "Tell me again why I didn't just use my wand to move it?" Harry asked straightening back up. "Well what would be the fun in that?" asked Ginny, shrugging her shoulders and giving him a sweet smile. She walked over to one of the two light oak cribs and straightened the scarlet baby comforter with golden snitches that covered the mattress.
Harry walked up to her, "Where do you want this?" he asked holding up a baby mobile. Mini bludgers, quaffle, beater bats and snitch dangled down from the white umbrella. "Isn't it adorable?" asked Ginny, smiling at the mobile. Harry smiled at her, setting the mobile down inside the crib. "Yeah, it is," he said wrapping his arms around Ginny squeezing her gently. "The walls turned out great didn't they?" said Harry surveying the room. Half way up the wall a light oak chair rail ran the length of the room, the lower part of the walls were a deep burgundy smudged with gold. The upper half of the room was cream with the same gold treatment. "A true Gryffindor's room," said Ginny, looking affectionately around the nursery. "Shouldn't you be getting ready?" Ginny said, looking back at her husband. Harry looked down at his wrist watch and sighed, "I suppose so, wouldn't want to be late for the bachelor party being one of the co-hosts and all." Harry said, leaning in kissing his wife on the cheek.
"Exactly what is it you and Ron have planned for Fred and George tonight?" Ginny asked as she followed Harry through the master bedroom into the adjoining bath. "I can't tell you, otherwise it wouldn't be a secret." said Harry, pulling his shirt off over his head and throwing it onto the counter. Ginny snorted, leaning her back against the counter watching her husband undress. "I think you just don't want Angelina and Katie to find out, and I'm hurt that you'd imply that I'd be the one to tell them." she said crossing her arms in front of her. "Now love, of course I would never imply that." said Harry, opening the shower stall door and turning on the water. "Oh I think you would," Ginny said reaching out and pinching Harry's exposed nipple. Harry jumped and yelped as he put his hand protectively over his now sore nipple. "Ginny, I swear!" he said as he jumped into the shower stall and closed it before Ginny could reach for his other one.
"Uh huh, well two can play at that game. Or have you forgotten that Hermione and I are throwing the girl's party tonight as well." Ginny called through the shower stall at her husband. "I'm sure it will be a lovely tea and cake bridal shower dear," Harry said, scrubbing shampoo into his hair. "Who said anything about it being a tea and cake sort of party?" Ginny yelled as she watched Harry through the shower glass. She saw Harry pause while rinsing his hair before he finished. "Oh? Then what are you ladies doing tonight?" said Harry, trying to sound casual while washing himself. "Wouldn't you like to know." said Ginny, smirking.
The water turned off as Harry opened the door; he took a large purple towel from the hook and began to dry off while Ginny began to undress for her shower. "So, uh, you going to tell me where you girls are going tonight?" said Harry as he tucked the towel around his waist. Ginny quietly stepped into the shower with a smile on her face and shut the door before turning the water on. "Nope," she said as she stuck her head under the spray of warm water.
"Ginny, have you seen my watch?" Harry asked looking on his dresser. He walked around the bedroom in black shoes and a pair of black slacks. Ginny poked her head out of the bathroom, putting an earring in as she watched her husband pull a dark jade short sleeve shirt over his head. The silken material fit snug to his form showing off his excellent chest and abdomen muscles. "It's here on the counter where you left it," she said stepping back into the bathroom and exiting again with his watch in her out stretched hand. Harry paused in reaching for the watch to glance over his wife. She wore a brown skirt that stopped well above her knees showing off slender well shaped legs that ended in sling back heels. Her dark russet top cut low to reveal a good amount of cleavage that only grown since becoming pregnant before flaring out loosely around her swollen waist. The ruffled cuff of her top split open from wrist to elbow. Her hair was pulled up into a french twist with bangs; several straight wisps of hair framed her face.
Despite being well into pregnancy she looked stunning. Her entire being glowed with the allure of beauty. "You're not going to a bridal shower in that are you?" Harry asked as Ginny placed the watch into his hands. Ginny grinned up at him seductively, "Just because I'm pregnant doesn't mean I can't look good, and before you ask, yes the shoes are safe, I charmed all my shoes so I won't have trouble with them." Harry licked his lips nervously as he inhaled her sultry vanilla scent. "It's not the shoes I'm worried about." he said in a husky tone stepping to wrap his arms around his wife. Ginny chuckled wrapping her arms around his neck. "Just promise me one thing," she said pulling his head down to brush his lips with a kiss. "What's that?" he asked, kissing her cheek. "Look but no touch," she said with a smile as she kissed his cheek in return. Harry pulled back looking at her with furrowed brows. "Look but no touch what?" Ginny snorted, pulling out of his embrace to go look into the vanity mirror checking her make up. She reached up and adjusted the clasp of the chain to her topaz and ruby pendant before answering.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about Harry Potter," she said turning around to look at him. Harry did his best to hide a grin, "You know I only have eyes for you." Ginny eyed him from head to toe before resting her golden hazel gaze onto his emerald eyes, "Mmm, humm. And you're hands better be too," she said raising a perfectly arched eyebrow. Harry laughed before walking over to his wife and embracing her again. He leaned in kissing her full lips. "So," he said as his lips hovered over hers, lightly brushing them as he spoke, "Are you going to tell me what you girls are doing tonight?" Ginny grinned beneath his lips, eyes sparkling with mischief, "Nope."
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
The club was dimly lit as the women entered; pounding music filled their ears as they took in their surroundings. Colored lights flashed around a raised stage as white running lights blinked around its edge. A large bar ran along the side of one wall, huge mirrors were set up behind it to reflect back the entire room. "What exactly is this place?" Molly Weasley asked looking around in surprise as a waiter wearing only a black vest showing off his well toned arms and bare muscled chest, tight black slacks enhanced his rear as he walked past with a tray raised. Ginny and Hermione looked at each other and grinned. Angelina, Katie stepped in looking around in awe. Penelope, Fleur and Melody came around to look as well. "Oh my," Penelope breathed. "Ladies good evening and welcome to Lucky's Charms," said a tall man approaching them, wearing the same outfit that all the other waiters wore, the colored lights dully reflected off of his shaved head. His black eyes crinkled as smiled down at them clasping his large hands together in front of his well defined chocolate brown abs. "Mmm, ze dark chocolate haz alwayz been one of my favoritez," Fleur said under her breath. The waiter smiled bigger. "Weasley party of eight," Hermione said, looking out of the corner of her eye at Fleur with a grin. "Ah yes, we have something special for you ladies tonight." The man said in a deep voice. "My name is Caddar, if you'll follow me to your table." Ginny and Hermione looked at each other raising their eyebrows in amusement. "Oh I'll follow you anywhere," Angelina said looking Caddar up and down as he led them towards a large round table near the bar, angled close to the stage. After Caddar took their drink orders and walked off to the bar the girls looked around the busy room. "This place is fantastic," Katie gushed as a handsome blond walked by carrying an empty tray. "I'm so glad you think so," came a deep male voice with a heavy irish accent from behind Ginny and Hermione. Ginny turned around and was surprised to be greeted by the handsome face of Seamus Finnigan. He smiled down at the girls, "Welcome to Lucky's Charms. The premier Witches' club of London." he said with a slight bow. "Seamus!" Ginny and Hermione cried in delight. "I should have known you would be the owner by the club's name," said Hermione, smiling up at her old school mate.
Seamus's eyes grew large looking down at Hermione and Ginny's swollen forms, "I see you two have been busy." he said with a smirk. Hermione blushed and swatted his arm while Ginny grinned back up at him. Seamus reached over folding up the sleeve of his white button down shirt. "Well if you ladies will excuse me. I'll see to it you have a right good time tonight." He said, squeezing Ginny's shoulder affectionately before patting Hermione's shoulder. "Thanks Seamus, its Angelina and Katie's last night of freedom. Merlin knows we've tried to convince them to run for the hills but they appear to be set on marrying my brothers," Ginny said smiling over at her soon to be sister in laws. "Well then, lass, we'll make sure this night is extra special." Seamus said, smiling over at the brides.
Seamus walked away to be replaced by a handsome waiter with short blond hair. "Hello ladies, my name is Gareth," the blond said as he began to hand out the drinks. Molly looked up at him as he leaned in close to her while setting down her drink. Her cheeks took on a bright pink tinge as she glanced at his bare chest before quickly averting her eyes down to the table. Ginny cocked an eyebrow at her mother and smiled but refrained from saying anything. After passing around the drinks Gareth again stood near Molly and leaned in slightly placing a hand on her shoulder, "Now if you need anything at all ladies, you just let me know." he said as he looked around the table, resting his eyes on Molly before giving her a wink then walking away. Molly giggled slightly picking up her drink to sip. "Molly are you blushing?" Melody said leaning in to get a better look at her mother in law. Molly continued to sip her drink to avoid her daughter in laws question, waving her hand dismissively. The women at the table laughed at their elder's embarrassment.
The women were distracted by spot lights shining on the stage as Seamus walked to the center, touching his throat with his wand. "Beautiful ladies of all ages," His voice boomed with the Sonorus charm, "May I present to you, Lucky's Charms!" He called out throwing his arm up and out in introduction. He walked back and to the side as a curtain parted behind him. A gorgeous man with bright blue eyes and chestnut brown hair walked out in billowing midnight blue robes. Loud music began to pulse again as the man began to dance around the stage, slowly unbuttoning his robe. "Oh my stars!" Molly cried out in shock as the man began to disrobe on the stage, smiling down at the cheering witches. "Ginny! Do you know what sort of place this is?" she said looking over at her daughter. Ginny, who was watching the display and clapping her hands, looked over at her mother. "Of course I did Mum, don't tell me you didn't." Ginny said giving her mother a knowing smile. "I. . . well. . . I. . ." her mother stammered.
"Besides, blame Hermione, she's the one who picked it." Ginny said, laughing at her mother's stunned face. "Hermione!" Molly yelled in mock sternness. Hermione looked at her mother in law and smiled, "No worse than what the men are doing tonight," Hermione said with a smile. Molly jumped as a wizard's hat landed on her lap; she looked down at the hat in surprise before letting out a nervous laugh.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Angelina swayed slightly as she walked back to her seat from the ladies room a few hours and several drinks later. "Have we thanked you yet for this fabulous. . ." she hiccupped and put her fingertips to her lips, "bacholette party?" she said sitting down hard on her chair. A very sober Ginny and Hermione grinned at Angelina, "Yes we must thank them for such a wonderful time," Katie's voice was a touch slurred as she never took her eyes off the stage. The music dimmed as Seamus's voice came across the room. "Tonight is a very special night indeed, for tonight is the eve of the wedding to two of the wizarding world's most eligible pranksters, Fred and George Weasley, owners of Weasleys Wizard Wheezes. Those lucky ladies are Angelina Johnson and Katie Bell." Seamus cried out from behind the bar. The spot lights scanned over to the table to shine on the named women. "Ladies if you would follow the gentlemen to the stage for your surprise." Seamus said as the waiter Caddar walked over, extending his arm to Katie. At the same time the waiter Gareth extended his arm to Angelina. Every eye at the table turned to look at Ginny and Hermione who could only shrug in confusion. The room loudly applauded as the escorted girls made their way to the stage.
The Weasley women screamed with delight and laughter from their table as Angelina and Katie were treated to their own personal dancers. Katie took turns looking embarrassed and excited as the male dancer in dark red robes moved around her. Angelina watched her dancer dressed in dark golden robes with a cocky grin before looking down at her soon to be family and winked. "So, do you think the men are having this much fun?" Hermione leaned in to speak in Ginny's ear. Ginny who was leaning in to hear Hermione keep her eyes on the stage as the dancer in the golden robes took his hat off and twirled it over his head standing beside Angelina. "We'll find out soon enough," Ginny answer. Hermione gave her a questioning look. "I charmed Harry's watch; he has no clue that it will record everything tonight." Ginny said taking a sip of her lemonade. Hermione gaped at her, "You naughty, naughty girl!" Hermione giggled. Ginny shrugged as a grin spread over her face. "As if he won't fill them in on what we did tonight," Ginny said, thumbing over her shoulder toward where Seamus stood behind the bar. Hermione glanced back at him before looking at Ginny smiling. "I guess Harry and Ron will get an ear full after tonight." Hermione said picking up her pineapple juice. "Too right you are," Ginny said holding her glass up to clink against Hermione's, "Too right you are."
Ginny sat her glass of lemonade down at the table. Looking around the Three Broomsticks, she caught the eye of Madam Rosemerta and waved for the check. "So when do I get to come see the new nursery?" asked Ginger, placing her glass on the table. "As soon as we finish setting it up. The furniture only arrived last night and we haven't had the chance to put everything in order." said Ginny, turning her attention back to her old friend. "Well look what we have here, double trouble if I ever saw it," came a deep male voice from behind Ginny. Instantly knowing who the voice belonged to, Ginny turned her head around, "Hi Colin," she said smiling up at him. Colin placed a warm hand on Ginny's shoulder squeezing gently as he leaned in to kiss her cheek. "How are you feeling today?" Colin asked giving her a once over with his eyes. "I'm fine Colin; you're getting as bad as everyone else. I'm healthy and happy," Ginny said, patting Colin's hand on her shoulder before he let it drop. He moved to kiss Ginger on the cheek, then sat on a chair between his wife and Ginny. "And the healer says I have excellent birthing hips," Ginny said dryly.
Ginger snorted into her drink, working hard on keeping down the smile that was battling to over come her. Colin's eyes briefly glanced down at Ginny's hips before he caught himself and looked away quickly, unfortunately not quick enough to avoid being caught by both women. "Oh, I know you didn't just check out her hips," Ginger said rolling her head slightly, looking her husband up and down in mock anger. Colin looked embarrassingly out the window for a brief moment before looking at his wife, "Of course not dear," he said in a straight face. "Liar," Ginny laughed. "Well you mentioned it! What am I supposed to do?" Colin said helplessly. "Typical male," said Ginger, shaking her head.
Ginger looked at Ginny giving her a half wink which Ginny returned. "Oh Ginny I give up, I know the truth of it all, why pretend anymore." Ginger said melodramatically, placing her hand palm up on the table. Ginny took Ginger's hand in her own with an overly pained expression, "Why Ginger, what could you be talking about?" Colin looked back and forth between the two women in half amusement half exasperation. "Admit it; you're cheating on me... with..." Ginger paused for dramatic affect taking a deep breath, "With Colin!" she cried out before burying her face into her free hand. You could see a broad smile appear behind her palm. "Oh Ginger, I can't lie any longer," Ginny said squeezing Ginger's hand, "It's all true, but Colin and I have talked, and we want you to join in our little love-fest. We'll be one happy family, you, me and Colin." Ginny said in an overly breathy voice.
Colin groaned and looked around the room to make sure no one else was watching the embarrassing display.
Ginger looked up from between her fingers, "Do you mean it?" Ginny bit her lip nodding. "Yes, you get him Monday and Wednesday. I'll get him Tuesday and Thursday, it will be just the two of us Friday, Saturday and Sunday." said Ginny, batting her eyes looking suggestively at Ginger. "Oh Ginny!" Ginger cried out. "Oh Ginger" Ginny cried out. Both women turned their heads at the same time each grabbing a hand of the now completely humiliated Colin who at that point in time was appearing to try and melt through the chair. "Oh Colin!" the women said in unison. "Oh lord," Colin groaned rolling his eyes heavenward.
A table of men near by began chuckling at the display, "Lucky bloke" one man said before returning to his ale. "Alright you two," said Colin, standing up, "We need to get going, Ginger. Especially if you want time to get ready for dinner at my parents'." he said looking down at his wife. Ginny and Ginger continued to laugh as Ginger joined her husband in standing up. "We're going to be meeting this new girl Dennis has started dating," said Ginger, slipping the strap of her hand bag over her shoulder. "He does seem to be overly happy these days at the joke shop." said Ginny, leaning down to pick up her bag. "He didn't even complain when the twins tried their newest product out on him last week. You would think one would mind a two foot purple tale." Ginny said shaking her head.
Madam Rosemerta arrived with the check for the girl's drinks and placed it on the table. Both Ginger and Ginny reached for the bill at the same time. "I'll get it," Ginny said trying to pull the slip of parchment away. "No I'll get it," Ginger tugged on her end of the parchment. "What, are you trying to distress a pregnant woman? Give me the bill." Ginny said pulling again. "Of course I'm not; I'm trying to ease the woes of a woman in your condition. Now hand it over Potter." said Ginger, tugging again. Colin grunted, snatching the parchment out of both of their hands, "I'll get it," he said digging in his pocket for his change purse, "And no arguments," he looked pointedly at Ginny and she promptly snapped her jaw shut. "I call dibs on next time," said Ginny quickly, looking triumphant at Ginger's scowl that she had been beaten to the call. "Fine, but I'm ordering more than tea next time. You're coughing up for a whole meal toots." said Ginger, giving Ginny a mock glare. "Done," Ginny said nodding her head as she slowly stood up. "Here," said Colin sticking out his hand for Ginny. She gratefully took it getting to her feet.
After setting up a lunch date with Ginger, Ginny parted ways with her friends outside the front door of the tavern. Colin and Ginger had tried to convince Ginny to allow them to walk her back, but she firmly refused stating that if there was any trouble many shops were only but a few feet away and she could get help. Reluctantly they agreed after Ginny threatened to hex them if they didn't stop treating her like an invalid.
The weather had grown increasingly warmer as spring firmly took hold over the land. Ginny shrugged off her light weight cloak and draped it over her shoulder as she made her way down the street. With the addition of the twins weight to carry, Ginny noticed herself becoming hot quiet often. Ginny paid no real mind to those who passed by as she watched the trees around her, well into their bloom. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to inhale the wonderful scent of mother earth awakening. A tall figure of a man brushed past her as she glanced down at a budding peony bush, the twins gave a sudden jerk within her causing Ginny to falter in step. "Kitten?" she heard barely over a whisper from behind her. Only one person had ever called her that, never with her permission. A shadow of tingling cold shot up through her spine as the twins grew extremely still within her.
Ginny turned around slowly coming face to face with a man she thought she'd never again encounter after the fall of Voldermort. Draco Malfoy stood before her with a look of shock and complete surprise written across his handsome face. He stood tall in his tailored clothes, his white-blond hair perfectly cut slightly falling into his eyes as he looked down at Ginny, surveying her. Ginny's hand unconsciously went protectively to her swollen stomach bringing Draco's grey eyes to stay even longer on her abdomen. A haunted look flashed briefly though his eyes. Without thought Draco slowly reached out gingerly to touch her stomach. Ginny took an automatic step back looking at his hand which lingered in the air for a few moments where her stomach had been before dropping to his side. Her eyes went from his hand up to his face once more, a look of pain and sadness was evident for the briefest of moments.
The silence was awkward between them as Ginny searched for something polite to say. "How have you been?" Ginny asked for lack of anything better coming to mind. Draco stared, fixated on her stomach, for several more moments before he tore his gaze upward to look at her while answering her question. "I am well." he said, a distant look held in his eyes, his voice was emotionless. After several uncomfortable moments Ginny finally spoke again, "Well I should be getting back." Ginny turned to leave when he spoke again, this time his voice hinting of urgency, "Are you happy?" Ginny stopped and turned back to see Draco once again staring at her swollen form, this time an inner struggle was evident in his tense features.
Ginny sighed, "I could be no happier nor more in love. With Harry my soul is complete." For a moment it looked as if Draco was on the verge of saying something before the all too familiar mask slid down over his features once more. "If you'll excuse me, I must be off," said Draco, without waiting for her reply he strode away.
Ginny watched him until he was beyond her sight. Ginny sighed glancing down at the budding peony bush before looking heavenward as large fluffy white clouds floated past. "Please fates, bring him happiness," she whispered, slowly closing her eyes for a moment. Her attention was brought quickly back by the twins turning within her. "I see you agree," said Ginny, gently patting her stomach, "Let's just hope the fates listen." With one last look at the empty sidewalk she turned back making her way to the twins' shop.
~*~*~*~*~*~*~
"Harry, could you move it to the left a bit more?" said Ginny, as she surveyed the nursery furniture. Harry gave her an exasperated look but otherwise made no mention of the fact that this was the fourth time he'd moved the rocking chair ending it back where it had first started. "Thank you, that's perfect." said Ginny giving him a warm smile. "Tell me again why I didn't just use my wand to move it?" Harry asked straightening back up. "Well what would be the fun in that?" asked Ginny, shrugging her shoulders and giving him a sweet smile. She walked over to one of the two light oak cribs and straightened the scarlet baby comforter with golden snitches that covered the mattress.
Harry walked up to her, "Where do you want this?" he asked holding up a baby mobile. Mini bludgers, quaffle, beater bats and snitch dangled down from the white umbrella. "Isn't it adorable?" asked Ginny, smiling at the mobile. Harry smiled at her, setting the mobile down inside the crib. "Yeah, it is," he said wrapping his arms around Ginny squeezing her gently. "The walls turned out great didn't they?" said Harry surveying the room. Half way up the wall a light oak chair rail ran the length of the room, the lower part of the walls were a deep burgundy smudged with gold. The upper half of the room was cream with the same gold treatment. "A true Gryffindor's room," said Ginny, looking affectionately around the nursery. "Shouldn't you be getting ready?" Ginny said, looking back at her husband. Harry looked down at his wrist watch and sighed, "I suppose so, wouldn't want to be late for the bachelor party being one of the co-hosts and all." Harry said, leaning in kissing his wife on the cheek.
"Exactly what is it you and Ron have planned for Fred and George tonight?" Ginny asked as she followed Harry through the master bedroom into the adjoining bath. "I can't tell you, otherwise it wouldn't be a secret." said Harry, pulling his shirt off over his head and throwing it onto the counter. Ginny snorted, leaning her back against the counter watching her husband undress. "I think you just don't want Angelina and Katie to find out, and I'm hurt that you'd imply that I'd be the one to tell them." she said crossing her arms in front of her. "Now love, of course I would never imply that." said Harry, opening the shower stall door and turning on the water. "Oh I think you would," Ginny said reaching out and pinching Harry's exposed nipple. Harry jumped and yelped as he put his hand protectively over his now sore nipple. "Ginny, I swear!" he said as he jumped into the shower stall and closed it before Ginny could reach for his other one.
"Uh huh, well two can play at that game. Or have you forgotten that Hermione and I are throwing the girl's party tonight as well." Ginny called through the shower stall at her husband. "I'm sure it will be a lovely tea and cake bridal shower dear," Harry said, scrubbing shampoo into his hair. "Who said anything about it being a tea and cake sort of party?" Ginny yelled as she watched Harry through the shower glass. She saw Harry pause while rinsing his hair before he finished. "Oh? Then what are you ladies doing tonight?" said Harry, trying to sound casual while washing himself. "Wouldn't you like to know." said Ginny, smirking.
The water turned off as Harry opened the door; he took a large purple towel from the hook and began to dry off while Ginny began to undress for her shower. "So, uh, you going to tell me where you girls are going tonight?" said Harry as he tucked the towel around his waist. Ginny quietly stepped into the shower with a smile on her face and shut the door before turning the water on. "Nope," she said as she stuck her head under the spray of warm water.
"Ginny, have you seen my watch?" Harry asked looking on his dresser. He walked around the bedroom in black shoes and a pair of black slacks. Ginny poked her head out of the bathroom, putting an earring in as she watched her husband pull a dark jade short sleeve shirt over his head. The silken material fit snug to his form showing off his excellent chest and abdomen muscles. "It's here on the counter where you left it," she said stepping back into the bathroom and exiting again with his watch in her out stretched hand. Harry paused in reaching for the watch to glance over his wife. She wore a brown skirt that stopped well above her knees showing off slender well shaped legs that ended in sling back heels. Her dark russet top cut low to reveal a good amount of cleavage that only grown since becoming pregnant before flaring out loosely around her swollen waist. The ruffled cuff of her top split open from wrist to elbow. Her hair was pulled up into a french twist with bangs; several straight wisps of hair framed her face.
Despite being well into pregnancy she looked stunning. Her entire being glowed with the allure of beauty. "You're not going to a bridal shower in that are you?" Harry asked as Ginny placed the watch into his hands. Ginny grinned up at him seductively, "Just because I'm pregnant doesn't mean I can't look good, and before you ask, yes the shoes are safe, I charmed all my shoes so I won't have trouble with them." Harry licked his lips nervously as he inhaled her sultry vanilla scent. "It's not the shoes I'm worried about." he said in a husky tone stepping to wrap his arms around his wife. Ginny chuckled wrapping her arms around his neck. "Just promise me one thing," she said pulling his head down to brush his lips with a kiss. "What's that?" he asked, kissing her cheek. "Look but no touch," she said with a smile as she kissed his cheek in return. Harry pulled back looking at her with furrowed brows. "Look but no touch what?" Ginny snorted, pulling out of his embrace to go look into the vanity mirror checking her make up. She reached up and adjusted the clasp of the chain to her topaz and ruby pendant before answering.
"You know exactly what I'm talking about Harry Potter," she said turning around to look at him. Harry did his best to hide a grin, "You know I only have eyes for you." Ginny eyed him from head to toe before resting her golden hazel gaze onto his emerald eyes, "Mmm, humm. And you're hands better be too," she said raising a perfectly arched eyebrow. Harry laughed before walking over to his wife and embracing her again. He leaned in kissing her full lips. "So," he said as his lips hovered over hers, lightly brushing them as he spoke, "Are you going to tell me what you girls are doing tonight?" Ginny grinned beneath his lips, eyes sparkling with mischief, "Nope."
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The club was dimly lit as the women entered; pounding music filled their ears as they took in their surroundings. Colored lights flashed around a raised stage as white running lights blinked around its edge. A large bar ran along the side of one wall, huge mirrors were set up behind it to reflect back the entire room. "What exactly is this place?" Molly Weasley asked looking around in surprise as a waiter wearing only a black vest showing off his well toned arms and bare muscled chest, tight black slacks enhanced his rear as he walked past with a tray raised. Ginny and Hermione looked at each other and grinned. Angelina, Katie stepped in looking around in awe. Penelope, Fleur and Melody came around to look as well. "Oh my," Penelope breathed. "Ladies good evening and welcome to Lucky's Charms," said a tall man approaching them, wearing the same outfit that all the other waiters wore, the colored lights dully reflected off of his shaved head. His black eyes crinkled as smiled down at them clasping his large hands together in front of his well defined chocolate brown abs. "Mmm, ze dark chocolate haz alwayz been one of my favoritez," Fleur said under her breath. The waiter smiled bigger. "Weasley party of eight," Hermione said, looking out of the corner of her eye at Fleur with a grin. "Ah yes, we have something special for you ladies tonight." The man said in a deep voice. "My name is Caddar, if you'll follow me to your table." Ginny and Hermione looked at each other raising their eyebrows in amusement. "Oh I'll follow you anywhere," Angelina said looking Caddar up and down as he led them towards a large round table near the bar, angled close to the stage. After Caddar took their drink orders and walked off to the bar the girls looked around the busy room. "This place is fantastic," Katie gushed as a handsome blond walked by carrying an empty tray. "I'm so glad you think so," came a deep male voice with a heavy irish accent from behind Ginny and Hermione. Ginny turned around and was surprised to be greeted by the handsome face of Seamus Finnigan. He smiled down at the girls, "Welcome to Lucky's Charms. The premier Witches' club of London." he said with a slight bow. "Seamus!" Ginny and Hermione cried in delight. "I should have known you would be the owner by the club's name," said Hermione, smiling up at her old school mate.
Seamus's eyes grew large looking down at Hermione and Ginny's swollen forms, "I see you two have been busy." he said with a smirk. Hermione blushed and swatted his arm while Ginny grinned back up at him. Seamus reached over folding up the sleeve of his white button down shirt. "Well if you ladies will excuse me. I'll see to it you have a right good time tonight." He said, squeezing Ginny's shoulder affectionately before patting Hermione's shoulder. "Thanks Seamus, its Angelina and Katie's last night of freedom. Merlin knows we've tried to convince them to run for the hills but they appear to be set on marrying my brothers," Ginny said smiling over at her soon to be sister in laws. "Well then, lass, we'll make sure this night is extra special." Seamus said, smiling over at the brides.
Seamus walked away to be replaced by a handsome waiter with short blond hair. "Hello ladies, my name is Gareth," the blond said as he began to hand out the drinks. Molly looked up at him as he leaned in close to her while setting down her drink. Her cheeks took on a bright pink tinge as she glanced at his bare chest before quickly averting her eyes down to the table. Ginny cocked an eyebrow at her mother and smiled but refrained from saying anything. After passing around the drinks Gareth again stood near Molly and leaned in slightly placing a hand on her shoulder, "Now if you need anything at all ladies, you just let me know." he said as he looked around the table, resting his eyes on Molly before giving her a wink then walking away. Molly giggled slightly picking up her drink to sip. "Molly are you blushing?" Melody said leaning in to get a better look at her mother in law. Molly continued to sip her drink to avoid her daughter in laws question, waving her hand dismissively. The women at the table laughed at their elder's embarrassment.
The women were distracted by spot lights shining on the stage as Seamus walked to the center, touching his throat with his wand. "Beautiful ladies of all ages," His voice boomed with the Sonorus charm, "May I present to you, Lucky's Charms!" He called out throwing his arm up and out in introduction. He walked back and to the side as a curtain parted behind him. A gorgeous man with bright blue eyes and chestnut brown hair walked out in billowing midnight blue robes. Loud music began to pulse again as the man began to dance around the stage, slowly unbuttoning his robe. "Oh my stars!" Molly cried out in shock as the man began to disrobe on the stage, smiling down at the cheering witches. "Ginny! Do you know what sort of place this is?" she said looking over at her daughter. Ginny, who was watching the display and clapping her hands, looked over at her mother. "Of course I did Mum, don't tell me you didn't." Ginny said giving her mother a knowing smile. "I. . . well. . . I. . ." her mother stammered.
"Besides, blame Hermione, she's the one who picked it." Ginny said, laughing at her mother's stunned face. "Hermione!" Molly yelled in mock sternness. Hermione looked at her mother in law and smiled, "No worse than what the men are doing tonight," Hermione said with a smile. Molly jumped as a wizard's hat landed on her lap; she looked down at the hat in surprise before letting out a nervous laugh.
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Angelina swayed slightly as she walked back to her seat from the ladies room a few hours and several drinks later. "Have we thanked you yet for this fabulous. . ." she hiccupped and put her fingertips to her lips, "bacholette party?" she said sitting down hard on her chair. A very sober Ginny and Hermione grinned at Angelina, "Yes we must thank them for such a wonderful time," Katie's voice was a touch slurred as she never took her eyes off the stage. The music dimmed as Seamus's voice came across the room. "Tonight is a very special night indeed, for tonight is the eve of the wedding to two of the wizarding world's most eligible pranksters, Fred and George Weasley, owners of Weasleys Wizard Wheezes. Those lucky ladies are Angelina Johnson and Katie Bell." Seamus cried out from behind the bar. The spot lights scanned over to the table to shine on the named women. "Ladies if you would follow the gentlemen to the stage for your surprise." Seamus said as the waiter Caddar walked over, extending his arm to Katie. At the same time the waiter Gareth extended his arm to Angelina. Every eye at the table turned to look at Ginny and Hermione who could only shrug in confusion. The room loudly applauded as the escorted girls made their way to the stage.
The Weasley women screamed with delight and laughter from their table as Angelina and Katie were treated to their own personal dancers. Katie took turns looking embarrassed and excited as the male dancer in dark red robes moved around her. Angelina watched her dancer dressed in dark golden robes with a cocky grin before looking down at her soon to be family and winked. "So, do you think the men are having this much fun?" Hermione leaned in to speak in Ginny's ear. Ginny who was leaning in to hear Hermione keep her eyes on the stage as the dancer in the golden robes took his hat off and twirled it over his head standing beside Angelina. "We'll find out soon enough," Ginny answer. Hermione gave her a questioning look. "I charmed Harry's watch; he has no clue that it will record everything tonight." Ginny said taking a sip of her lemonade. Hermione gaped at her, "You naughty, naughty girl!" Hermione giggled. Ginny shrugged as a grin spread over her face. "As if he won't fill them in on what we did tonight," Ginny said, thumbing over her shoulder toward where Seamus stood behind the bar. Hermione glanced back at him before looking at Ginny smiling. "I guess Harry and Ron will get an ear full after tonight." Hermione said picking up her pineapple juice. "Too right you are," Ginny said holding her glass up to clink against Hermione's, "Too right you are."