Eleven
"Draco Returns"
The ringing of Liam's alarm broke the stillness of his dark bedroom. There wasn't even a sign of light peaking through the curtains as he opened his eyes. He had to untangle himself from Elianna to reach over to the nightstand. Yesterday morning his mother left for business in Paris. Elianna consented to sleep in his room.
"What time is it," she croaked in a whisper.
"I'm sorry love. It's four, go back to sleep," he slipped out of bed. He was sorry to wake her. She'd only been asleep for a couple of hours.
He got onto the floor and did twenty-five push up and then rolled onto his back and did twenty-five sit-ups. He crossed the room and went into his closet. He closed the door before he turned on the light. He was feeling refreshed as he stretched his arms above his head. He didn't realize spending the night with a girl could be this relaxing.
He changed into his running things, used the loo, and splashed some water on his face. Back out in the bedroom, he patted Herman on the head, "are you coming with me, buddy?" Herman got up off the bed. The two of them left Elianna who had returned to sleep.
London was quiet at 4 am; it felt as if no one was up except Liam and the newspaper delivery guy. He felt powerful as if the city were his as if he could do anything. It was a cool summer morning as most British summer mornings are, its ideal jogging weather. He needed this run more than ever, Draco's coming.
He hasn't seen his father since the night his parents told him they split up. The night was already tense because of the fight he and Draco had at Christmas. Then to add to calamity "we've decided it's better for everyone if we separate."
Better for whom? Liam is aware his parents are people and they have their stuff to deal with but it was odd timing. It feels as if the split happened because he told them he's dating a squib. As predicted his mother could care less but his father is being a jerk. Liam picked up his pace…
When people speak of love hurting he always assumed it was with a significant other. He didn't consider that it could be your father. Liam ran a bit faster…
"What the fuck! Why is it a crime to fall in love? To be open-minded!" Liam pushed himself to run as fast as he could. He could hear his heart pounding and his breath strangled in his chest.
His father is the one who taught him how to treat women. He told him to be chivalrous. He should have clarified he met only with witches. Then they could have gotten this all out of the way sooner rather than later.
Herman barked and pulled on his leash with great force. A horn blasted through the silence, there was a great screech as Liam fell back on his ass. He narrowly managed to roll out of the way of an oncoming delivery truck.
"Fucking hell," he caught his breath as he crawled over to the curb. He put his head in his hands; he had to get his shit together. Herman put his head on his shoulder. Liam sat up and hugged his dog.
His dad has always been tough, he's used to that. There was a difference between wanting someone to be their best and completely disregarding them. He was consistently on him for his grades. He baked with him for the Dalton bake sale and taught him to fly. He didn't always answer the tough questions but he was always honest. He was everything a father should be firm and guiding. Liam assumed he would be understanding as well but apparently not.
Now his father was going to show up in London, be rude to Elianna, and quite possibly punch him in the face.
There was a squeaking noise and Herman barked. Liam looked up; a grey barn owl was teetering on the curb. It was struggling with two thin legal-sized parcels.
"Isn't it too early for this," Liam let go of Herman and removed the parcels from the owl. The moment he was unburdened he flew off.
One box had his name on it, the other Mrs. Weasley-Malfoy. Ever since he turned seventeen each month one of these textile-covered boxes arrived. There was an embossed WM on the front with the word holdings underneath. There's a long complicated process to unlock the box that holds the Weasley-Malfoy Holdings monthly report.
He supposed he wasn't the only person up this early after all. "Let's go home," he climbed to his feet.
(***)
"Morning," Elianna joined Liam in the kitchen. He was at the stove cooking; she wrapped her arms around his waist and kissed him on the cheek.
"Morning my love, breakfast is almost ready."
"Smells great"
"Where are you gals off to today," Liam asked as Elianna took a seat at the kitchen table and helped herself to some juice.
"I'm going to get a cup of coffee and watch Evie shop. She said she'd pop by around ten."
"You don't want anything?"
She shrugged, "I don't need anything, besides I've seen Evie. Her taste is far too beautiful for me."
Liam prepared a plate for each of them and took them to the table. Before he sat down he took his wallet out of his back pocket, "here," he handed her his credit card.
"Uh no," she held her hands up and wouldn't take it. "Did Evie say something to you?"
"No, why," he sat down still holding out the card.
"It's sweet but I'm ok."
"I want to," he forced the card into her hand.
She looked at the card, "what happens if I max it out?"
"Good luck, that card doesn't have a limit," he said as if it was nothing.
She couldn't believe this, she knew he had money, well his parents do. But Liam was the most non-ostentatious person she knew. His t-shirts came in a six-pack and he owned almost nothing. Yet he was sitting on a no-limit credit card at all times.
"She likes the muggle shops but if you end up at Fosters and Banks you can charge it to my account. The number is 2387 or anyplace else vault 718."
"Babe this is too much"
"I want to do it," he shrugged as he dug into his breakfast.
Elianna placed the card on the table and began on hers. They were all alone there and the hours have been very nice. Something has been plaguing her ever since Liam conveyed to her what Ginny would be up to for the next few days. "Is your father coming to the luncheon on Sunday?" She asked concentrating on her plate.
"Yeah," she knew Liam was looking at her. The reassuring thing to do would be to look at him, "there's every possibility he's already here…" but she couldn't do it. She had this awful feeling in the pit of her stomach. This trip has been a dream and something was telling her that's all it is, "he's not coming to the apartment. He's staying at a hotel."
She simply nodded. Liam went on to say, "I thought during the luncheon you and I would clear out… have some you and me time."
She finally looked up at him and smiled, she hoped it came across as genuine and not full of worry and dread. "That sounds good."
"He um… he's also going to Evie's Debutante thing."
"I figured," she didn't but thought it was better than blurting out a swear word. "It's going to be ok."
"It better be or Mr. Malfoy will have me to reckon with." The doorbell rang. Liam glanced at the clock on the wall, it wasn't ten yet. He left the kitchen to answer the door, "hi Samuel," he spoke into the mirror behind the golden door.
"Hello Liam, there's a delivery down here that needs a signature," said Samuel. "And my signature won't do."
"I'll be right there," he closed the door.
"Love I'm popping down to the lobby!"
"Ok!"
He went to his room and got his wand off the nightstand, then pressed the button for the lift. When he arrived downstairs there was a burly-looking man with four boxes on a trolley.
"Ginevra Malfoy," the man read from his clipboard.
"No, but I'm a Malfoy," Liam approached him, "I'll sign for whatever you've got."
"I'm under strict instructions."
"I bet, and even stricter ones that say don't upset the Malfoy's." Liam held out his hand for the clipboard, he could have sworn he heard Samuel snicker. The man sighed, handed it over, and he signed his name. He tapped the boxes with his wand. They stayed in a perfect stack and hovered off the man's trolley. "Thank you."
He headed back for the lift with the boxes in tow. As he summoned the lift he heard the delivery guy pardoning himself to someone.
"All right Sam"
"All right Evie"
Liam turned around, "Hey, you're early."
"I am," she kissed him on the cheek. "I stayed at Ethan's last night, I ish-ed the time because I wanted to make sure I was around for him if he needed me."
"What's going on?"
"It's a big week for him," she sighed, "he graduated from Oxford last year. He's been doing this apprenticeship and today is judgment day. He's going to be a trader. He's got his eyes on the prize."
"City boy, eh," the lift opened and the boxes followed them on.
"No poking fun," she hit him on the arm.
"I'm not," he lied. "We're having breakfast so you can't go yet."
"The shops don't open until ten anyway," she shrugged as they got off at the flat. "What's in the boxes," she asked as they plopped down next to the hall table.
"I think it's the printed materials for the Dark Arts Defense League luncheon. My mom likes to have them bound."
"My grandparents are coming to that," she followed him into the kitchen. "Good morning."
"Morning Evie," smiled Elianna.
"Would you like some breakfast," offered Liam?
"No, I'm good. I'll have juice… So are you ready for some serious girly fun," Evie asked taking a seat at the table.
"I am," laughed Elianna.
Liam handed Evie a glass, "please don't get my girl into any trouble."
"Never," Evie winked at Liam with a sly smile.
(***)
Elianna was enjoying her Starbucks as she followed Evie through Harvey Nichols. She had no intention of buying a thing or even taking Liam's card out of her purse. He was a very sweet boyfriend but giving her free reign of his credit card was too much.
"What do you think about these?" Evie was looking at a pair of jeans. They were plain straight legs, one of the back pockets was ripped and revealing a patch of gold studs.
"Those are cool," but unless they sold the knock-off on the high street she would never. The most expensive things she owns are the leather jacket she's currently wearing and the Mansur Gavriel bag she's carrying. She spent an entire summer waiting tables to buy them.
Her parents are quite comfortable and very African. They wanted her to earn everything. Her father would make comments about how lucky she is. Then tell stories about how he grew up without shoes. Now he owns several pairs of custom-cut dragon skin dress shoes and he's partial to Salvatore Ferragamo loafers.
She understands that money doesn't grow on trees, one of her parent's favorite catchphrases. It's hard to see her father as having nothing. She's only known him in his designer shoes, driving his Mercedes, and with the ability to travel internationally at a moment's notice. This brings up her parent's next favorite catchphrase, "I have a job."
Unfortunately, her parents refuse to let her work during the school year. Some nonsense about wanting her to focus on her studies as if she can't multitask.
"Are you going to get into the spirit of things?"
"I am, I've always wanted to see Harvey Nichols… and Harrods."
"Then get something it'll be a souvenir."
"If I see something I'll consider it," she lied.
"I told you to get Liam's credit card, what are men for?"
"Do you have Ethan's?"
"No, I have my father's."
Elianna laughed, "Liam gave me his card. I didn't ask but we aren't in that kind of relationship."
"The kind of relationship where a guy who adores you, hears you're going shopping, and gives you his card in case you see something?"
When she said it like that it didn't seem so bad. Liam finances their relationship and she was all right with that. Paying for dates and buying her plane ticket was a little different than handing over money. She didn't want to be thought of as a kept woman, "I suppose we are. I'm just not comfortable."
"I get that… I wouldn't take money from Ethan… yet. But then I've only known him for three months. You and Liam have been together for over two years."
She thought about it for a moment she did have a point. Although she too could have her father pay for it. After all his yapping about money, he gave her his credit card for the trip. It wasn't for the purchase of impromptu formal attire. It was because she was leaving the country with only a couple hundred dollars in her bank account. He pointed out it was foolish and she agreed but she wanted to see Liam. There were only 48 hours between Liam's invitation and her leaving Sydney. There wasn't enough time to get her, her own card, so he gave her his. He said it was for emergencies and her mother chimed in, "like when that Malfoy leaves you stranded."
"I do need something to wear to your event."
"That's a practical solution. Let's go to the dress department."
"So how does it feel to be a debutant," Asked Elianna as they headed up the escalator.
"Archaic and silly," she answered honestly.
"Then why are you doing it?"
"My parents and grandparents on both sides want me to. I'm doing four and four ridiculous white dresses."
"Why four?"
"To hit all society, one magical and one muggle in London and New York. You're coming to the magical one."
"Isn't the whole point of this to let men know you're of age and available? And you're not exactly available."
"That's true but it's always good to have options," she shrugged. "Which is exactly why Ethan volunteered to be my escort to all four. He said something about wanting to scare off the competition."
They both laughed, "So are things serious between you two?"
"No… they're committed, which is a big deal for me."
Elianna figured because the first time she met Evie, she was on a date arranged by her mother.
"I don't attach myself but I like him and it's going well. My parents approve wholeheartedly."
"What about his parents?"
"I haven't met them and I don't know if they know about me," she shrugged. "I suppose I should be a bit offended but I'm a bit nervous… hiding a large part of yourself is a lot of work. But things with you and Liam are going well. I suppose your parents came round since you're here."
"No, I just told them I was coming."
"Parents are funny creatures, especially about daughters. Don't go anywhere near a boy, how come you aren't seeing anyone, sex is a sin, I expect grandbabies." They laughed as they arrived in the dress department.
Elianna wasn't sure what would be appropriate and she wasn't thinking about the dress code. Mr. Malfoy was going to be at this event and she needed to make sure she was perfect. She didn't want to give him more reasons to hate her. This is why she looked at Evie as if she were crazy when she suggested a dress that had cutouts at the side. She hasn't worked out once since setting foot in the UK so she was going to need something a bit forgiving. Under no circumstance could she look as if she should be working a pole or the main stage. This is why she vetoed the embellished thing Evie pointed out next. She also wanted to make sure the cost didn't have Mr. Malfoy ripping Liam's head off.
They didn't have any luck in Harvey Nichols. She was along for the ride when Evie pulled her into Valentino. All the associates knew her, the new collection was lovely, and Elianna enjoyed the complimentary champagne. Evie tried on several pieces and left with a couple of things. Then they had a repeat performance in Tom Ford, followed by a pit stop in Chanel. By the time they got to Harrods Elianna was tipsy.
She had better luck in Harrods. She found a few things she liked and thought would make a good impression.
"Can I ask you something," Elianna said through the dressing room door.
"Sure"
"It's kind of… it's about the Malfoy's."
"I won't tell Liam if that's what you're concerned about," replied Evie.
"No, I'm not, it's not a secret," she examined herself in the royal blue satin gown. "It's… I need to make an impression on Mr. Malfoy."
Evie snorted, "If I were you I wouldn't worry about it."
Elianna came out of the dressing room, "why not," she went to stand in front of the giant mirror where the light is better.
"There's no pleasing him, is there," she shrugged, "I think he only puts up with me because he's fond of my grandparents."
She was probably right. "I can't mess this up… I don't want your night ruined and I don't…" want Mr. Malfoy to punch Liam in the face again. "Want to do anything that will make trouble."
Evie sighed, "You're not the trouble. Mr. Malfoy is and the funniest thing is I think it's eating him up."
"What do you mean?"
"Ever since he found out about you he's had to reckon with demons he thought he was rid of," explained Evie.
As she examined her reflection she wondered what demons those were. Other than the color this dress wasn't doing much. "Not this one," she stepped off the platform and went back into the fitting room.
"Do you know what happened?"
Elianna jumped she hadn't realized that Evie had moved outside the door. "What happened when?"
"When Mr. Malfoy was young?"
"Oh, um... I know he and his father were involved with the death eaters or whatever," she changed into the next option.
"He was a death eater. He was charged with attempted murder, unlawful capture and imprisonment, child endangerment, and conspiracy to commit acts of terrorism."
Elianna opened the door now in the next dress. From the look on Evie's face, her fear was written across her plain as day.
"The root cause of all this was blood status. You, who's basically a muggle was top of the hit list, and I as a half-blood, blood traitor was right below you."
"So why do you stick around?"
"I love Liam," Evie said simply. "Mr. Malfoy has never done anything to me. He's very hard… that coldness can be frightening so I'm cautious. For some reason, my grandparents adore him so I suppose he's shown them something. I like to see things for myself. But Liam, he's worth all this."
"Have you and him—"
"No! Ew," she dropped back down into her seat with a nauseated expression, "he's basically my brother. I mean that we've been friends since before either of us could talk!" Baby Liam use to crawl after the teetering toddler Evie.
Elianna chuckled, "I was just checking."
"He's a great guy, for someone else. He's a very good friend, he's loyal and trustworthy. He's someone you have to try hard to hate. He doesn't hate anyone unless they give him a reason. Even then it has to be a really good one."
This was too true, Liam's been hurt by his family but he doesn't hate them. That's why this is so hard. He was betrayed and Elianna wants to support him and not make things worse.
But at the same time, she was wondering if she had more reasons to be terrified of Mr. Malfoy. She has only been in the same place with him once and he didn't curse her so that was a good sign. He was coming here so he hasn't completely cut himself off from Liam so perhaps it's not that bad. Just because you're charged with something doesn't mean you've done it. Everything was a lot to take in, there are a lot of details she doesn't have. "Well being charged isn't…"
"Don't try to justify it. He wasn't convicted but he did do all those things."
(***)
"Good morning Samuel," Ginny appeared through the lobby doors laden with bags.
"Good morning Mrs. Weasley-Malfoy," he stood, "do you need a hand?"
"Yes but first can you please ring up to my flat and tell Liam to come down and help, thanks."
As he called upstairs Ginny went back outside where Borden was unloading the car. She landed in the UK a couple of hours ago and jumped straight into errands. Paris was a whirlwind trip, she was hosting a luncheon this afternoon, and she was going to see her husband for the first time since they split.
"Liam is coming down. Let's get everything inside. We'll take it from there. Then you can go take care of everything you need to," Ginny told Borden as they came through with more stuff. He was going to tend to Draco.
Liam told Ginny that he plans to take Elianna out for the day. She hopes he does it before Draco shows up, she didn't tell him that they had a guest. It didn't seem like information she had to share anymore. They're separated and Liam is an adult, well of age at least. She didn't want them fighting again and she didn't want Elianna to witness it.
The lift chimed and Liam appeared, his hair sticking in every direction and glasses askew. "What's all this?" There were parcels, shopping bags, and flowers everywhere.
"Junk," answered Ginny coming in from the outside, "this is the last of it. It's not as much as it looks, let's get it upstairs."
She, Liam, and Samuel loaded the lift to capacity. When they got to the flat, Herman was waiting, "hi sweetie! Let me put these things down and I'll hug you." She lined the stuff in her arms up next to the table, and then crouched down to hug Herman, "I missed you."
She's needed her snuggle buddy a lot since her family began falling apart. "Were you good for Liam," he barked and she laughed, "That's what I like to hear."
"Where am I supposed to put all this," Liam was still unloading the lift. The foyer was filling up.
"In the kitchen, in the study, and the living room," sighed Ginny as she went to prop open the kitchen door. "Let's get it in here then we can get it sorted… Lydia should be here shortly to help."
"Good morning," Elianna appeared in the hall.
"Good morning dear, sorry to wake you," apologized Ginny.
"It's all right, do you need help?"
"You can put any bag you find with food in the kitchen, thanks."
"Mom why didn't you have this thing catered," Liam asked separating food from flowers.
"I did… those are our groceries there's no food in the house. You could stand to be more vigilant." She went into the kitchen and placed several bags on the table.
"I did notice, I didn't think you would have time to go shopping. I was going to do it myself later."
"I needed to get a few things so I just did it."
"How was Paris?"
"Tiring, I went to two meetings and then dinner. Left at the crack of dawn to get back here and sort this stuff for the luncheon. And tomorrow I appear in front of the Wizengamot." She left the kitchen.
"What could your mother have possibly done?" Ginny heard Elianna ask from the kitchen.
She read the label on the stack of boxes next to the table. She ripped the top one open to reveal the printed materials.
"She got invested in her work. She's speaking in support of several indigenous groups that live off the land. They're concerned about climate change. The wizarding UK has vowed to help and they are trying to find the best way forward."
"Your mum is so cool." It's nice that someone thought so, Ginny wished her husband agreed. The things he said…she couldn't believe it. He's always been so supportive. Something is going on with him; she wants to know what is.
She thumbed through the Dark Arts Defense League booklet. The printing is beautiful but the font seemed a bit smaller she had to squint. Squinting aside it was too late to have them changed. She needed to come up with a game plan to be around her estranged husband with 30 lunch guests.
The lift chimed, Samuel had put the rest of her things on, "Li come help me," she began to take the things out of the lift.
She could pretend nothing happened but after their fight that was going to be hard. It was hard enough having him around during Easter Break. She could pretend they've never meant and use this moment as a blank slate. Or she could be upset with him and if anyone asks, say they're working through stuff.
Working through, that was a laugh. More like being completely silent except when they send each other their calendars, well in Draco's case Alan sends it to her. She wondered if Palmer would be willing to sort out her personal life… she would never do that to him.
She went into the living room and spun the globe on the shelf in the study. When the bar appeared she lined up the flowers on the counter.
"The lift is empty," Liam shouted.
"Thank you," she sighed heading back to the foyer. "I will sort this, you two go about your business."
With a flick of her wand, she had everything floating and going in the appropriate direction.
"Good morning," Lydia called entering through the backdoor. She ducked out of the way of a large bag of breath mints.
"Morning, sorry about that," Ginny redirected her flying objects. "I will let you get settled and we can go over the plan."
(***)
Ginny exited her bathroom, feeling refreshed after her shower.
"Ginny I'm in here," Jeff called from in her closet.
"How are you," she asked, taking a seat at her dressing table. She asked him to come over and style her for the day.
"I'm all right. This was a slow week for me so it's been nice to unwind. How are you?"
"I'm doing well," she lied. She hasn't told a soul what's happened with Draco. Not even Dean, she didn't want to put him through that again. Mostly she's embarrassed. "I'm swamped."
"I bet would you like—"
"For you to pull something for me to appear in front of the Wizengamot, yes please."
He laughed as he came out of the closet, "this is for today." He placed cream-tailored trousers and a blouse on the hooks that hung outside of the closet. "Perhaps belted… I'll accessorize," he disappeared back into the closet.
Ginny looked at the clothing choice as she moisturized. Jeff kept her chic. She was tempted to tell him to pick out something sexier. Unfortunately, that would lead to questions and she'd have to explain she was using this charitable event to lure back her husband.
She couldn't pinpoint the exact moment their relationship began to deteriorate. Last summer before she left for Malaysia he wasn't as affectionate as usual. There was a time when he wouldn't take his hands off her. Especially when she was going to be away for a long time.
She didn't know what to make of Draco these days. Perhaps he's having an affair. She wouldn't like it but it would be easier to deal with than some other things. Like falling back into darkness or falling out of love with her.
(***)
Draco appeared in the lobby of the Weasley-Malfoy flat or the Weasley flat now, he supposed.
"Good afternoon Mr. Malfoy," the doorman said.
"Ah Draco," a grey man was checking his post box.
"Hello Emile," he lived one floor up.
"I'm so glad I ran into you," they went over to the lift, "I've been taking a poll among the residents that own horses. What do you think about changing the feed to organic?" Draco pressed two and put his wand in the hole, and then Emile pressed three and put his wand in.
"Sounds good, I vote yes. Have a good day," the lift chimed and he stepped off into his flat, into Ginny's flat.
He stood in the foyer; it was strange being back here, feeling like a guest in a home he owned. He went further into the hall. The place was buzzing, in an hour they were hosting the annual Dark Arts Defense League luncheon.
There was a crash, and Draco turned around. One of the staff dropped a plate. He immediately repaired it and continued to the kitchen.
Draco went down the hall to his bedroom, Ginny's bedroom. He was going to enter but this isn't his home anymore. He probably should have had the doorman ring up to the flat. He needed something from the closet. She probably wasn't in there anyway. He knocked and a moment later she said, "Yes?"
"It's me"
"Come in"
She was sitting at her dressing table. She moved as if she were going to get up and come to him but thought better of it.
"Hello Gin," he didn't know what it would be like the first time he saw her again. He was happy they were having this moment alone. He couldn't bear having to stare at the woman who he couldn't believe chose him. The woman he so terribly hurt. There she sat as beautiful as ever her brown eyes full of hurt.
"Ginny, are there going to be cameras at the committee meeting," Jeff came out of the closet. He held up a couple of belts to the clothing hanging on the rack.
Draco sucked in her breath as Ginny dropped her gaze, "I'm not sure."
"I will plan for cameras…Hi, Draco."
"Hello Jeff, how are you?"
"I'm doing well," he disappeared back into the closet.
"I don't want to disturb you getting dressed. I wanted to get a jacket and tie."
"You're not disturbing me," she went back to what she was doing.
Her hair grew out, he watched her whirl her wand to curl it as he went past her into the closet. It was grazing her shoulders.
Jeff was on Ginny's side of the closet. His stuff hung right where he left it. He was a bit surprised she hadn't burned it. Especially after the fight, they had the night it all ended.
"If you're keeping on your navy trousers I recommend a light grey blazer. A soft color tie perhaps lavender or sage," Jeff advised before heading out of the closet.
Draco put the jacket he was holding back and went for grey. He chose a light grey with flecks. As he pulled it on he listened to Jeff explain his choices to Ginny and then bid her farewell.
"Bye Draco!"
"See you," he responded. He chose a pale blue tie because he didn't have lavender and wasn't in the mood for green. He exited the closet tying it. "How are you?"
"Tired," she sighed as she put on her under-eye masks.
"Did you sleep?"
"A little but I get a bit anxious when I know I'm traveling."
That's a new characteristic and France is only across the channel. Draco thought she was more anxious about seeing him and he couldn't blame her.
There was a knock on the door before it opened, "hey mom–" Liam shut up the moment his eyes landed on Draco.
"Hello Li"
"Hi dad"
"How are you?"
"Good… So, mom, Lydia told the caterer hors d'oeuvres on yellow plates, the first course on the blue, the main on white, and the desert on orange."
"Perfect"
"We're going to go. Have a great lunch."
"Thank you, I'll see you later darling," Ginny said as Liam left the room.
"He still hates me," Draco turned back to his tie.
"He doesn't hate you, he's angry with you. There's a difference… if you hang around I'll fill you in on the day."
Draco sat on the edge of the bed, "Before we get into that… Liam's not staying? He's of age now he needs to start attending these events. I know he doesn't like it but he needs to start making moves."
Ginny sighed, "I know." This wasn't a new discussion and they've had it with Liam as well. He knows he's expected to take over his parent's charitable and business obligations. They're vigorous philanthropists and own a media outlet. This is something Ginny and Draco agree on. However, they have different ways of communicating with Liam.
"I'll have a chat with him."
"Or we could go catch him and make him put on a shirt and tie."
"The table has already been laid and the seating assigned. We'll get a better response from him if we have an open discussion about it."
"Gin—"
"Look," she became more forceful, "I want him prepared and involved too. What I don't want is him to rebel and have everything we've built fall apart."
Draco wanted to say something smart. What could he say? It would be a waste of breath. Liam has no problems defying him. He knows the trouble with pushing your children. He was currently living it. He was currently paying for it. He just… misses Liam.
Ginny got up from her dressing table and disappeared from view. Draco could still see her reflection in the large mirror at her table. He watched her slip out of her robe revealing her barely-there nude knickers. She pulled her blouse on and began buttoning it up. This action would normally stimulate something in him.
She turned around and caught his eye in the mirror, he looked away. She came out into the bedroom, was she going to make him look at her or accost him for looking at her? She went over to her desk and picked up a booklet, "So, the luncheon–"
"Despite Liam's anger, how's he doing?"
Ginny was confused by the shift, "he's doing well."
"That's good…," he began to smooth her perfectly made bed. "We'll probably never speak again."
"I doubt that."
"You're right there will be some shouting."
"You need to fix this."
"I didn't do anything."
"You were a dismissive bully but that's beside the point. The point is you're the parent. It doesn't matter how old he gets, it's your job to fix it." She tossed the booklet on the bed and went to put on her trousers.
"I don't think there will be a time when we'll be in a place for me or whoever to fix it."
"You'll find the time sooner than you think. He'll be studying production design in Manhattan in the fall. You're working in the city he'll be living in, I'm sure you'll find a way to connect."
"You think he'll allow me to take him to dinner?"
"No"
"I suppose you're wrong about reconnecting."
"He's going to say no because Elianna's here."
"She's in town… how lovely," the way he said it didn't seem lovely at all.
Ginny rolled her eyes, "she's staying here with us. Liam is not going to be up for leaving her for the night."
"So she's the reason I wasn't offered the guest room."
"No, the fact that the terms of our separation said this place is mine is why you weren't offered the guest room." He's made no moves to talk to her, why would she bother being considerate. "So the agenda for the day…"
She joined him again now dressed. She sat next to him and picked up the booklet. Draco watched as Ginny opened the book. She lifted it closer to her face, "love."
"Hm," she was distracted by the page.
"What's wrong?"
"Nothing, they made the font smaller than I requested."
He didn't believe her, "You need glasses."
"I do not," she was affronted by the notion. She didn't have grey hair yet, she didn't need glasses.
Draco took the booklet from her, it was standard legible print. It looked the same as last year. "There's no shame in it."
"Your hairlines receding," she shot back. Draco stared at her, she felt a bit bad, "sorry."
"Go to the oculist," he began to fill himself in on today's festivities.
(***)
The Artemisia Lufkin Debutante Ball
The lift chimed and Draco stepped off into the flat, Liam came out of his bedroom. He glanced at Draco and kept walking. Draco watched him walk down the hall. He knocked on the guest room door, said, "It's me," and then disappeared inside locking the door behind him.
Draco sent his eyes to the top of his head and went into the living room. He immediately went into the study nook spun the globe and waited for the bar to appear. It's going to be a long night, he thought as poured himself a drink.
He began to sip his scotch as he went over to the window, he gazed out at London. Sometimes he missed this city, especially now that it felt like he wasn't allowed to cross the ocean without expressed permission.
He heard a door open and heels clicking on the wooden floor. This was it, the moment he's been dreading since he left New York.
"Oh good, you're here."
Relief flooded him. It was only Ginny, he turned to her, "yeah… you look nice."
"Thank you"
She was wearing a floor-length pencil gown, it isn't new. He's seen her in it before, he's always liked it. It shows off her figure, "care to join me," he held up his glass.
"Go on then"
Draco went back to the bar; he prepared Ginny a drink and refilled his. He crossed the room and handed it to her. When she accepted it he noticed her emerald engagement ring sparkling. She hasn't been wearing it lately, only her band. Perhaps she pulled it out for the formal occasion.
He was still standing close to her and she didn't bother to put space between them as she took a sip of her drink. She looked up at him, big beautiful brown eyes dancing and Draco had the urge to touch her. He raised a hand to caress her cheek…
"Is everyone ready?"
Draco stepped away from Ginny as Liam came down the hall holding Elianna's hand.
"Yes," answered Ginny placing her glass on the end table, "you both look wonderful."
(***)
It was a very quiet car ride to the Seymour Inn. Liam and Elianna were sitting in the very back behind Draco and Ginny. Liam kept taking nervous glances at her but she just kept staring out the window. Draco hadn't even acknowledged her presence except when he allowed for her and Ginny to get into the car first. Draco and Ginny were having brief exchanges about extending one thing or another and who asked about the other in passing.
"I have to come for the board meeting," Ginny told Draco.
He nodded, "well perhaps Sandy will be available by then… I want you there for the acquisition."
"Ok"
When they arrived at the Seymour Inn, the ballroom was buzzing. Liam introduced Elianna to all their family friends. They were both surprised when a representative from the Daily Prophet arrived. Liam suggested they leave. But Elianna said they should stay. Unknown to Liam, it was so Draco wouldn't think she was a diva who demanded to be taken home. Should the occasion arise, they agreed they wouldn't be speaking to the reporter or posing for photographs. As it got closer to 7:30 they found their seats at the Farrow's four tables.
"Oh god," Draco groaned under his breath. It was bad enough he had to be at this ridiculous event but this wasn't good.
"What's wrong," Ginny whispered to him.
"My parents are here," he sighed and got up.
Ginny turned around to look, she watched Draco walk over to Lucius and Narcissa. He kissed his mother and shook his father's hand. They looked like they were having a completely innocent conversation. Unfortunately Ginny knew her in-laws all too well and there was nothing innocent about it. She turned around and continued to look pleasant.
"What's going on there," asked Liam.
"I don't know, your dads finding that out now."
Elianna suddenly wasn't feeling very well. She's never met the Malfoy's she only knows how they feel about her. Just the idea of them was making her sick to her stomach.
"Hello all," Justin came strutting up to the table. "Doesn't everyone look nice in their party clothes," he took the seat next to Elianna.
"Hello Justin, how are you," Ginny asked politely.
"Very well and you Mrs. Weasley-Malfoy"
"I can't complain."
"Where's Tommy," Justin looked around, "Did he find a way out of this silly evening?"
"He went to the bar," informed Liam.
"Hopefully the one around the corner, I'll go join him. Would anyone like anything?" Justin asked as he stood. Everyone shook their heads and he headed off.
"Are you ok," Liam whispered to Elianna. She didn't say anything; she just kept staring straight ahead. "Love…"
"Ladies and gentlemen I would like to welcome you all to the 224th Artemisia Lufkin Debutante Ball." An old lady wearing a champagne color beaded gown appeared at the top of the stairs. The staircase was constructed for this event. "I ask that everyone take their seats for our distinguished ladies are going to be presented." The lights began to fade and the old witch was standing in a spotlight.
People began to resume their seats. Tommy and Justin came back to the table. Music began to play.
"Rachel Abernathy," a young woman in a voluminous white robe appeared at the top of the stairs. She was on the arm of an older man, presumably her father. "Daughter of Buford Abernathy and Rosaline Abernathy," they proceeded down the stairs the spotlight following them. They walked to the center of the dance floor. There Rachel was presented to a young man in tails, "Escorted by Richard Evers the third, son of Richard Evers Jr. and Martha Hill Evers."
Draco came back to their table, leaned over, and whispered something to Ginny.
"Liv Elizabeth Anderson, daughter of Harold Anderson and Plum Anderson; escorted by Blaine Burke, son of Herbert Burke Jr. and Olivia Nott Burke"
"Relative of yours," Tommy asked Justin.
"Unfortunately, she's like a third or fourth cousin once removed. I've met her once," he went back to his scotch.
Liam put his arm around Elianna and kissed her on her temple, she still hadn't said a word.
"Constance Eddington, daughter of Vance Eddington and Carla Eddington; escorted by Daniel Barrett son of David Barrett and Bridgett Bissett Barrett. Evelyn Charlotte Farrow, daughter of Stone Farrow and Edith Astor-Bishop Farrow; escorted by Ethan Stanley son of Roger Stanley and Emily Stanley."
Everyone at their table and the three surroundings began to applaud enthusiastically for their girl. Justin whistled and Edith tossed her program at him while shushing.
"Sorry Mrs. Farrow," he chuckled.
Elianna clapped along with everyone else, it was the first time she had moved since the Malfoy's arrived. As they moved on to the next girl she said, "Excuse me," she got up and left the table.
Liam turned to watch her; she headed out of the ballroom.
"Mom," Liam leaned over to whisper to her, "What's going on with Grandfather and Grandmother?"
"They came to see the Anderson girl come out," Ginny whispered back, "or at least that's what they claim."
Liam nodded, he did recall someone named Anderson announced but he wasn't paying attention. He started listening when they got to the F's so he wouldn't miss Evie. She was presented and now he was no longer paying attention.
He was sure whatever Elianna was going through was because of his Grandparents. It was bad enough she had to sit here with his father who hasn't acknowledged her, now the people who she knows hate her have made an appearance.
When the debs and their escorts began dancing in formation he got up and went to look for her. She wasn't in the lobby, he couldn't go into the lady's room but he had a feeling she wasn't sitting in a public restroom.
"Excuse me," he stopped one of the bellhops. "Have you seen a girl in a yellow dress? Its strapless has a giant bow at the back; she's got a big puffy ponytail." He was doing a terrible job at describing her.
"I think that's the girl whose outside."
"Thanks," he hurried across the lobby and pushed through the revolving door. He appeared in the all brick alley. There was a lone bench against one of the walls and Elianna was sitting on it shivering. Liam took off his jacket; he draped it across her shoulders and sat next to her. "What's going on Peterson?"
"Nothing, I'm having a moment," she pulled his jacket closer around her; the lining was warm from his body heat.
"Ok… do you want to leave?"
"You can't leave Evie's event."
"I'm sure she'll understand."
"It's rude"
"You not talking to me is weird and I don't like it."
She turned to look at him, "I'm sorry babe but sometimes I need to process things."
"Maybe we could come up with some sort of signal that means babe I'm processing chill," suggested Liam.
She kissed him on the cheek, "babe I'm processing chill. You should head back in. I'll be along shortly."
"Ok, but how are you going to get through the barrier?"
She smirked at him, "I can see it you know."
"Sorry, I didn't know." He was holding her hand when they entered. He had no idea, "All right see you in there," he kissed her and went back inside.
When he returned the formation dancing had ended. The couples were joined on the dance floor by guests. Social etiquette dictates that dancing is to happen after dinner. He knew his Grandparents were having a fit.
"Liam darling how are you," his Grandmother got in his path.
"I'm fine Grandmother. How are you?"
"I'm wonderful, this event has gone downhill, dancing before dinner, honestly. It's as if these people have no sense of decorum."
"I'm sure everyone just wanted to have a nice time. I hear you came to see the daughter of a friend."
"Yes we did and we're delighted to see a few familiar faces," she linked her arm through his. "I'd like you to meet a dear friend of ours… where on earth is your jacket," she led him away.
"Ah, here's Liam now," Lucius said as Narcissa approached their cluster with their Grandson.
"Hello," Liam hated this; he didn't like to be shown off like a prized possession.
"Liam this is Mr. and Mrs. Burke their son Blaine was an escort tonight," informed Lucius.
"Yes I recall hearing his name," he didn't but he was trying to be polite, "How do you do?"
"Lovely thank you," smiled Mrs. Burke.
"This is their daughter Amelia." Narcissa introduced the young girl in the simple purple dress. "She'll be making her debut next year."
"Wonderful."
"She's a gifted pianist, into the arts like you, and an accomplished equestrian," Narcissa gushed. "You two have loads in common. You should talk sometime."
Lucius had begun a side conversation with the Burkes. Narcissa let go of Liam's arm and joined her husband leaving Liam and Amelia alone.
"So you fly horses," Amelia asked.
"Yes, not for sport or anything for fun."
She nodded, "that's cool. I've been competing since I was seven."
"That's nice."
His Grandparents pulled him away from the awkward conversation to introduce him to one of the debutantes, Brooke Barrett. She goes by BB. The Barrett family was in frenzy preparing for the night. Their daughter was making her debut and their son was asked to be an escort.
After a couple of minutes of small talk with the girl wearing an off-the-shoulder white gown covered in hand-stitched flowers, he was pulled away to meet the daughter of the Carlyle's. No relation to the inn owners. They were escorting him over to the Anderson's when…
"All right that's enough," Liam removed his Grandmother's arm from his. "It's one thing to introduce me to your friends. It's another to try to set me up with their daughters. You both know I'm seeing someone. I know you don't approve but you're going to have to get over it because it's my decision."
He walked off before they could say anything. He was going back to the table and Elianna had returned. He had no idea how long she had been there and what she had seen.
"What was all that about," Ginny asked when he sat down.
"Nothing," he lied.
"Liam," Ginny said his name in that way she knew he was lying and if he didn't confess he was going to be in big trouble.
"Mom now's not the time," he hoped she would relent.
"Why not," asked Elianna.
Liam looked at her; it wasn't the time because he didn't want to see her more hurt than she already was. "Because I love you and that's all that matters."
Ginny got up and charged across the dance floor to where Lucius and Narcissa were talking to some old people.
"Lucius, Narcissa I need word. Would you two please excuse us?"
"You're being incredibly rude," Lucius hissed.
"It would be ruder for me to hex you and curse you out in front of these people. So perhaps you'll think about it and give me a second," she was pissed.
"Love, what's going on," Draco joined Ginny.
The older couple excused themselves from the scene.
"We were wondering the same thing," Narcissa folded her arms.
"Oh don't play that. You two are trying to fix up Liam."
"I have no idea what you're talking about." Narcissa said innocently, "We were introducing him to some of our friends."
"You both need to get this through your heads, Liam has a girlfriend. You are not to meddle in his personal life ever again. If I hear about or see it happening so help me god you'll pay," she stormed away.
"How dare her," hissed Lucius. "That Weasley thinks she can take that tone with us!"
"You were wrong," defended Draco.
"You don't like that girl you've said it yourself."
"I did not, I don't know her. I said I didn't like her for Liam," corrected Draco. "But none of that matters you shouldn't have meddled. You shouldn't have been making introductions when he's here with his girlfriend."
"Well, that filthy squib should get a clue."
"That you don't like her? She's got it, Dad. But this is none of your business."
"It involves our Grandson; it is our business!"
"No, it's not. He's mine and Ginny's child. We'll handle it the way we see fit. Stay out of it,"
(***)
The Bells of the Ball
Last night was the 224th Artemisia Lufkin Debutante Ball. Forty young witches from the most prestigious families in the wizarding world made their debut into high society. The soiree was held in the Grand Ballroom at the Seymour Inn, as perusal covered exclusively by the Daily Prophet. It was a revealing night as Liam Weasley-Malfoy is confirmed to be dating Elianna Peterson. This past Christmas, romance was rumored between the pair after they were spotted at the Australian Wizarding Ballet. However, neither commented on the alleged relationship and there wasn't any evidence to back up the claim. But last night the couple attended the debutante ball to support Liam's long-time friend Evelyn Farrow who made her debut.
(Pictured: Liam Weasley-Malfoy and Elianna Peterson in conversation with Kirkley Duke McCormick)
Ms. Peterson looked like a lovely piece of candy in her pale yellow gown. She was described by several guests as an absolute gem. "We were delighted to meet her. We have been acquainted with the Weasley-Malfoy family for years," said Mrs. Clarice Fawley. "Liam is such a sweet boy in a very prestigious position and he couldn't have chosen a better match!"
"The Daily Prophet"
Drama at the Ball
Elianna Peterson was seen fleeing from the ballroom at the Seymour Inn. Her alleged boyfriend Liam Weasley-Malfoy spent the better part of the evening trying to pick up other witches. If you haven't heard by now Elianna is a squib and the thrill is wearing off for young Mr. Malfoy. Apparently, she was warned by his Grandparents. "It's just so sad," comment Lucius Malfoy Grandfather, "I explained to her that he's very much the love 'em and leave 'em type. He has never in his life attached himself to anybody. She wasn't going to be the one to change him."
"The Tattler"
Fun in the Sun
Liam Weasley-Malfoy was in Monaco over the weekend enjoying the sun with friends. He and Elianna Peterson are letting it be known they're in a relationship. The young couple looked quite cozy on the deck of the 60-foot yacht. Ms. Peterson was comfortably perched on Mr. Weasley-Malfoy's lap. They partied with travel columnist Evelyn Farrow, Justin Nott (yes one of those Nott's), and a well-groomed unidentified man.
"The Tattler"
Miss. Peterson arrived home in Sydney today. She was greeted by her father Robert Peterson, Creative Director and Chief Operating Officer at Wiz Ads. She appeared haggard after her 24-hour flight in one of the muggle aeroplanes. The Peterson's were accompanied by private security.
"Aussie Talk"
"Draco's Return"
