Charlotte walked out of the Great Hall. Beside her Hermione relived the exam they just sat in Ancient Ruins. Used to the situation by now, Charlotte let her prattle about her concerns and answers and her supposed missteps. She stopped her only twice to confirm her belief Hermione answered a question correctly. Luna drifted next to Hermione like she was not paying the least bit of attention, though the friends knew better. Outside the door, Ginny and Gillian waited, grinning. The three stopped their forward progress. Everybody stared at each other. Then Ginny screamed in excitement. The others joined together grasped each other in a group hug, screeching and jumping like first years. It was over. Their education was completed. They were leaving Hogwarts for the last time in a week.
Luna's wedding was in two weeks. Gillian was interviewing at two departments at the Ministry. Hermione was still up in the air about continuing her education or one of her five standing job offers. Ginny was attending three invitations to quidditch tryouts in August, including one with her coveted Hollyhead Harpies. Charlotte would be leaving for Romania right after Luna's wedding. It was the most difficult transition for them all.
"Yes. Yes. You all should be proud, but really, you are all adults now. Contain yourselves." Professor Flitwick laughed and shooed them out the doors of the entrance hall. "Out you lot get. Enjoy the sunny day. I am sure you have not done so as hard as you have all worked. I'm sure it will reflect in your scores. Move along."
The girls all hugged the little man in their glee. He blushed and continued to waft them towards he door and the sunshine outside.
They continued their celebration out onto the lawn and down to the great beech tree by the lake.
Ginny flopped down on her back and closed her eyes soaking up the sun. "I can't believe we are done."
"I know," Hermione looked shocked. "What are we going to do now? Everything we have been doing for the seven and eight years has been leading to this point. Now what. Do we continue our education? Do we go to work? Do we…"
"Shut up and enjoy it is over for the next week, at least." Ginny finished in irritation. "Seriously, Hermione. Give it a rest."
Hermione scowled, but stopped talking. The girls all laid back on the ground for a moment recovering from the past two weeks. Nastily Exhausted didn't even cover their current conditions. Occasionally, someone would prattle into a conversation or other friends would stop to see what they were doing, but for the most part, they rested.
After an hour or so, Charlotte rolled onto her belly and drew one of the medical books CeCe had given her. She obeyed the rules, no studies were disrupted by the books. Hermione scheduled them all free time and Charlotte took advantage of it to learn her new trade.
Ginny rolled to her side and surveyed the group. She grimaced at Charlotte. "You're not squishing my new niece or nephew? And why in the hell do you have a book open?"
"Nope," Charlotte answered her question without looking up. "Madam Pomfrey made us all come in before exams incase precautions were needed and I find this calming after the two weeks we have had."
Ginny rolled next to her and looked over her shoulder. "So, studying about Dragon Pox is calming."
Charlotte just grinned and continued reading.
Their final week was relaxing. Instructors taught very little of consequence, just additional spells or coursework which could come in handy but were not part of the NEWT's. There was no homework. No summer work to start. They were done.
Some people took advantage of the downtime to complete applications and interviews. Luna and the girls worked on the remaining details for her wedding the first weekend in July. Ben was working on a flat for Gillian and himself in London. Rolf was working on their expedition honeymoon. Charlotte was working on her impending departure from England with her muggle relation.
It finally occurred to Charlotte during the Easter holidays she would need an excuse to leave in July. As a muggle, she should still have one more year of schooling left. After explaining this to Charlie, they enlisted the aid of the family to come up with reasons why Charlotte was leaving a year earlier than her aunt would expect.
At first, Charlotte thought to just tell the family the truth. She was married and going to join her husband in Romania. If they were clever, she could help pass Charlie off as an Irish Traveler who she ran off with. Arthur vetoed the idea. For all of her upbringing, Charlotte's family came from money. The magical community did not need that kind of involvement.
The director came up with a solution after overhearing Charlie discussing the issue with the others. The reserve had a program which allowed for students to transfer to Romania to begin their studies in dragonology during their final year of school. With the help of the English Ministry, Charlotte would simply be a student in that program.
Percy handled the correspondence with the aunt. To set her mind at ease, Charlotte would be hosted by his brother who was already coincidently working in Romania and was part of the same program when he went there a few years back. Extend the program two years for Charlotte to continue her pursuit of a medical degree at the university where she had already began her studies while she continued to live with said brother. The pair, living together with common backgrounds, would find themselves falling in love. All the better if Charlotte was pregnant at the time. Charlie, ever the gentleman, would want to make an honest woman out of the niece.
Charlotte worried about all of the issues that could happen. Like, for instance, if they already had a child. The family tutted and told her not to barrow worries. A young child could easily be passed off as a cousin. Charlotte reluctantly agreed to the plan. It would take some efforts on the parts of the players, but hopefully it would all come together.
Aunt Agnes loved Percy. They were cut from the same cloth. After several letters and a phone conversation, Agnes had agreed to the program. She agreed to the early start in July. What she did not agreed with was the fact Charlotte planned to come to her house for one night, pack up her things and leave the next day. About this one thing, she was being difficult. Charlotte could not understand why. Usually her aunt was happy if Charlotte could find one reason or another to not be at the Bristol manor during her holidays. Gillian's mother even called to offer Charlotte a spot to stay for a few days after school, but her aunt still held firm. Charlotte was expected to be home on Saturday evening after she arrived on the train. She could leave on Monday evening to join Gillian's family. No sooner.
So, today, as they sped to London on the express, Charlotte dreaded her evening. She convinced her aunt she could catch the train to Bristol on her own, so no need to deal with the maid. Charlotte would simply appearate to the Bristol station and the maid could collect her their later tonight. Scheduling issues' would put Charlotte on the last train to arrive for the evening. This allowed her to go to the Burrow for the graduation dinner Molly had planned for Ginny, Hermione and herself.
The ride seemed over in a minute. She was standing with her friends waiting for their turn to pass the barrier into Kings cross for the last time as a student. Though never discussed, she was sure Charlie would want their children to attend Hogwarts. She looked around one last time, anticipating her return in, quite possibly, twelve years. Ginny grabbed her hand and together, they crossed into the station. People buzzed all around them on their way to one stop or another.
Ginny shrieked the excited squeal she reserved for Harry and bolted across the station. Hermione also quicken her pace. Charlotte rolled her eyes as she seen Ginny launch herself the last few feet and collided with Harry's body and lips. Next to them, Ron was picking Hermione up and spinning her around. Charlotte pushed her trolley forward towards Molly, only to be intersected by a hand on her forearm. She was swiftly spun around and pulled into a breathless kiss. She tried to pull back for a moment before noticing the bond did not protest. Charlie!
"Hello, wife. I've missed you." He said pulling her to his chest. She smiled into his shirt.
Beside her, a stranger tutted as she walked by. "Whatever are the pair of them thinking? Why she looks too young to be his girlfriend."
"Good thing you're not my girlfriend then." Charlie whispered into her ear. Charlotte giggled.
Gillian approached hand in hand with Ben trailing an older couple behind them. Gillian's parents were obvious as the girl was a perfect blend of them. Gillian's younger siblings were taking up their attention as they approached.
Mr. Grey looked up as they stopped and looked critically at Charlotte. "How are you doing, my dear? You had us all worried for the past year, starting in May. I was frantically looking for you for weeks."
Charlotte smiled at the man as she stepped away from Charlie, capturing his hand. The Grey's looked after Charlotte in the magical world since she was a first year. They stepped in as her magical contacts after her and Gillian become friends until the Weasley family had assumed the role this November. She even spent the holidays with the family once after her mother passed away. Laurence Grey was the closest thing to a father Charlotte had since her own died when she was ten until Arthur claimed her as his own.
"I never really thanked you for all you have both done for me over the years. I would have been lost long before without your guidance." Charlotte said healthfully .
Margaret Grey looked between Charlotte and Charlie. "How are things really going, Charlotte? This law has us worried. Thanks to Ben, Gillian has some time, but you had no choices. I've been worried. Gillian tells us not to, but marriage is a big step. Especially when you had no choices in the matter."
Charlotte smiled at the woman, then at Charlie. "Mr. and Mrs. Grey, this is Charlie Weasley. My husband."
Pleasantries were exchanged. Mr. Grey, ever the father, inquired into Charlie's job, living arrangements, future goals and basic personality. Charlie took it all in good graces answering his questions and calming his fears.
Molly eventually bustled over and got ahold of Charlotte. She tutted and fretted about her. "You have lost more weight since May. Charlotte, have you been eating at all? You're going to make yourself sick. You have to be thinner than even Fleur was."
"Exams are over now, mum. We'll get her back on track. She'll be to the Burrow in no time and you will have a couple of weeks to get some weight back on her bones again." Charlie placated his mum before he rounded on Charlotte. "And then, no more skipped meals. You will eat and I will make sure of it. Understand?"
Charlotte nodded like an admonished child. Charlie took her chin in his hand and lifted her eyes to his. "You are too important to me. I am lost when you are gone. I dreaded the past month being in Romania alone again. I need you there with me whole and healthy."
Mrs. Grey sighed in relief. "They will be fine, Lawrence, I have no doubts now."
"We have to be off." Mr. Grey smiled at the group. "We are having dinner to celebrate the end of the school year, especially for Gillian. Keep in touch, Charlotte."
"I will." Charlotte smiled and hugged them both goodbye.
"Time to get home. There is a party to get together." Molly beamed as she gathered her own brood to leave.
Charlie grabbed the handle of the trolley and began to leave the station. Charlotte fell in step beside him. "I can't believe you came home special to meet me at the train."
Charlie smiled back down at her. He lowered his head to peck her on the lips. "I've actually been here for a week already. We ended up with that clutch of Welch Green hatchlings you played with back at Easter. The director let me help with them after it was decided to bring them back to Wales to have them raised with their peers at the Welch Green Reserve. We typically send a couple of our handlers with the hatchlings to their new home until they get use to their new handlers. Since I live in England and needed to be here anyway for Luna's wedding, the director let me come. He figured it would give you some time here before you have to move so far away to get your affairs in order. He has a soft spot for you, you know."
"You don't need to leave straight away?" Charlotte smiled excitedly.
"We are here for a week after Luna's wedding. I still have to work, but we will be together when I am done at the end of the day." Charlie clarified.
Charlotte laughed and hugged Charlie as they walked. He wrapped one arm around her pulling her close kissing the top of her head and didn't let go as they exited the station.
Outside, a couple shouted for Hermione and waved from where they stood by their car.
"Mum! Dad!" She screamed and bolted into their arms.
Charlie chuckled. "Hermione's parents wanted to surprise her at the station. They offered to transport all of the luggage to the Burrow for us and drive Hermione and Ron with them so they can catch up."
Charlotte smiled at the family, a little jealous.
Charlie hoisted the trunks into the boot. Charlotte noticed some quick magic on his part to magically expand the trunk and sent the Grangers and Ron on their way. He collected Charlotte's hand in his and walked down the block. Molly, Ginny and Harry had left them earlier to handle the bags.
Charlie guided Charlotte along the street a little ways before he drew her into an alley. Looking over his shoulder briefly, he pulled her to him and into oblivion all in the same motion. They reappeared on the lane to the Burrow moments later. Charlotte rocked unsteadily.
Charlie gathered her to his strong chest. "You have to eat more now that you are out of school and using your magic more, it will be more noticeable if you are not. We have already seen what happens when you drive yourself too far at Easter, Charlotte."
"I know," she said softly, ashamed.
Charlie drew her face up again and kissed her. "I'm not mad. I'm worried. Thatcher gave me a book on what will happen to you when you get pregnant. She may not show it, but she is concerned. You were already too small at Easter. When I got back and questioned her in May, she finally shared her concern and gave me the book to read. She will go spare when she sees you in a couple of weeks if we can't get some weight back on you. I don't want anything to happen to you. I…I need you Charlotte. I would be lost without you now that you are in my life."
She looked at him shocked at his declaration. She pulled him closer and he wrapped his arms around her tighter. "I promise, I'll try harder. Hopefully things will be a little less hectic when we get to Romania."
He nodded and kissed her again. They walked up the lane to the house where Molly had already started the cooking before they left to the station. Charlotte had tried to help, but was shooed away.
Charlie pulled her towards the steps. "We'll be in my old room."
Charlotte studied him, shocked at his easy acceptance. He looked at her comprehending. "We bullied mum and dad into letting us redo the upstairs some. George went on a rampage one day and threw everything out of his old room. Exercising ghost, he called it. Mum was plenty upset, but he insisted. Bill came when mum contacted him. Ronnie and Harry showed up from work and before you knew it, the boys were clearing out all the rooms. They fire called Percy to come salvage what he wanted from his old room. Audrey came with him and began to redecorate. Ronnie was convinced to paint over those horrendous orange walls. Bill transfigured the beds some. I arrived on the second day to find my old room tossed and all my shite in a box with two empty boxes on top of it for rubbish and storage sorting. So now, Ginny and Hermione are moved over to the twin's old room. Percy's room is now a nursery for when the grandkids come over. Harry has moved to Ginny's old room. Ronnie is still in the attic, and we have my old room when we are here."
He threw open the door and waved his arm to show off the changes. Charlotte stayed in the room during the Christmas holiday. At that time she could tell the boys never updated it from their adolescence. Two twin size beds, posters of magical bands, dragons, and a map of the world with pins stuck in it still dominated the walls then. Bill explained the pins finally and Charlotte looked closer to see the two different colored tacks marking the places each of them wanted to visit someday.
The room was more mature now. The walls were a soft cream color. There were bright curtains which complimented the patchwork quilt on the now single, bigger bed. The wardrobe was replaced and stood open with Charlie's clothes strewn across the doors and haphazardly tossed inside.
Charlie enclosed her in his strong arms again and dropped his chin on her shoulder. "I think this is better, don't you? I won't feel like I'm sneaking a girl into my room anymore."
Charlotte laughed at him. For all of his bravery, Charlie could cower at the strangest things. Charlie pulled her into the room and kicked the door shut. He picked her up and laid her gently upon the bed before collapsing next to her. Pulling her closer, He stroked her hair off her face and then traced her collarbones and toyed with the neckline of the simple button shirt she was wearing. Charlotte ran her hands up his chest feeling the rippled muscles under his t-shirt. He rolled her over onto her back and pulled her head to his kissing her deeply. Her hands began to run through the red waves of his hair …and Ginny banged into the room. "Really, you two are acting like you haven't seen each other in a month or something. Mum needs some help. Sorry, you're going to have to keep it in your trousers, brother dearest."
"Go away, Ginny," Charlie growled around Charlotte's lips.
"Wow. Nice. You use to be my favorite," Ginny mockingly pouted.
Charlotte kissed him once more and pushed against his chest. Charlie groaned and let her up.
Ginny skipped like a little girl out of the room. "Feel free to catch a cold shower, big brother."
She managed to duck the pillow chucked at her head.
Ron, Hermione and her family arrived around five. Trunks were unloaded and stored in their new rooms. The girl's new bedroom had been outfitted in light lilac and canopy beds with dark purple coverlets. They also had a small vanity area set up for their use. Charlotte decided to join them in there to get ready for their party. Charlie was marginally disappointed until Ginny reminded him they were already short on time, so any hanky-panky he has envisioned was probably going to be cut short anyway. He did steal a few minutes away for the pair of them when he gave her the new dress he bought her for the party. It was a red halter dress with black accents. To match her shoes … and other things. Charlotte giggled and kissed Charlie in thanks. Which lead to other activities Ginny stopped by pounding on the door.
The three of them managed to get ready in a hurry. In an effort to make themselves appear more mature, they swept their hair into elegant twist on the back of their heads. Ginny zipped Charlotte into the new dress over Charlie's favorite knicker set. They smiled at each other in the floor length mirror in the room. Laughing, they walked down the steps together.
As they sat together at the tables in the garden celebrating their graduation, Charlie could not keep his hands off of Charlotte. Nothing too forward, his hand held hers under the table as they ate. He's arm rested on the back of her chair, occasionally stroking her collar. Little things everybody noticed and smiled at. They stayed content until nine, when Charlotte needed to get ready to leave for her aunt's home for the remainder of the weekend.
Charlie leaned on the door of their room as she changed out of the dress. After being wound up too many times that day, he pounced when she had bent over to remove her stockings after taking off the dress. Before she could completely comprehend, she was tossed on the bed, and Charlie was stripping out of his clothes. Their coupling was fast and fierce, with Charlie promising long and drawn out once they were rid of her aunt. His suggestions of what was to happen upon her return had her screaming his name at their completion. He offered her two lazy kisses as they recovered.
As quick as they could, they were cleaned up, dressed and down the steps with Charlotte's mostly empty trunk.
Molly pulled her close. "We'll see you soon. Try to enjoy yourself, dear. I am worried about this plan. I feel bad you may be alienating the only family you have left all too soon."
"I'm not worried." Charlotte smiled. "You and Arthur have been more of a family in the past few months then they have ever been."
Molly eye's filled with tears. She patted Charlotte's cheek and sent them on their way.
Charlotte argued she could go on her own, but Charlie insisted on accompanying her to Bristol. They discreetly appeared in the station and loaded Charlotte's trunk on a trolley. Charlie stroked her face and looked around. No one was paying attention to the pair in the darkened corner.
He pulled her to him again and kissed her fiercely. "I don't know how you have done it, woman, but you have wormed your way into my heart. I cannot be without you anymore. I need you with me, Charlotte. This is it. Never again. This is last time we are going to be separated. From here on out, it is the two of us. Together. Forever."
Charlotte looked up into his determined face and her eyes filled with tears. She knew him well enough to understand without him having to say the word.
Around them, the passengers on the train Charlotte was supposed to be on began to disembark and move about the station. Charlie dried the couple of tears on Charlotte's cheeks and kissed her one more time. She stared into his eyes for a moment more and steeled herself. One more act of the play and Charlotte Cooper would be no more. She pushed her trolley out of the dark corner and began to look for her aunt's maid.
But it wasn't the maid who was sent to collect her when she exited the station. Charlotte stopped and stared at the middle aged man in the crisp suit. "Giles?"
"Miss Charlotte. Good, you are here. Let me get your things." The man intercepted Charlotte's trolley and began to lead her to a black car parked a short way away.
Charlotte looked at him for explanation of his presents, but being a good personal assistant, he divulged nothing. She finally gave up waiting for him to speak. "I can only assume from your presence, my grandparents are in town?"
"Yes, Miss." He replied as they reached the car. He opened the back door and waited for Charlotte to get inside. She conceded, figuring she had the ride from the train station to try to pick the story out of him. He shut the door with an efficient snap and pushed her luggage to the boot. Charlotte looked out the window of the car and noticed Charlie leaning against the wall of the station smoking a cigarette. He appeared concerned. Charlotte smiled encouragingly and shrugged her shoulders. He relaxed marginally knowing she was not worried about the change.
Giles was soon back in the vehicle and smoothly maneuvering them away from the station. Charlotte gave him a few minutes before commencing with her questioning.
"Have my grandparents been in town long?"
"No, Miss. They arrived earlier this week."
"Are they just in town for a visit?"
"No, Miss. Your grandfather and uncle had business to attend to in town."
"Are they staying for long?"
"I was told to plan for another week."
"Are they staying at the Blackwell House?"
"No, Miss. They are staying with your aunt at the manor house."
Charlotte looked at the man in the mirror. He quickly averted his eyes. Charlotte groaned internally. Up to that point, she believed it was a coincidence her grandparents were here. Now, to voluntarily be staying at the manor did not bode well.
She waited a moment before continuing. "Do they have anything planned this weekend? It will be nice to have a chance to visit with them if they have time."
"They…do, Miss." Giles hesitated.
Charlotte made a conscious effort not to look at him. They had plans and they involved Charlotte. Plans that, if she was correct, did not conclude until at least Monday afternoon. Or plans which gave the family a chance to change her plans before Monday afternoon.
She clutched the business card in her pocket. It would be unnoticed if anybody looked and she was sure someone would. The appointment card to the Granger Family Dental Practice for an appointment on Tuesday morning. The appointment was, of course, fake. More importantly, it was a phone number to contact Hermione, if she needed. IT was also a way for her to let people know if there was an issue with her family. Someone calling to cancel the appointment would alert the Weasley family to a problem. She needed to keep her head.
"How is your family doing, Giles? Have any of your daughters married."
Giles visibly relaxed. "No, Miss. But Leah is engaged. They are planning a lovely spring wedding."
"Oh, really." Charlotte relaxed into the comfortable seat for the rest of the ride. "Do tell."
"You have done well this year in your class, Charlotte?" the elderly woman appraised her with sharp piercing green eyes.
"Yes, ma'am" Charlotte answered. They were still on the usual litany of questions her elderly great aunt asked at the conclusion of every school year.
"Were you in any trouble this year? Did you have any detentions?"
"No, ma'am" She answered, glad she had only lost a few house points.
Aunt Agnes nodded sharply and studied her closely. Charlotte tried not to cower under her scrutiny. Charlie and Ginny were always trying to get her to bolster her confidence. Now was the test. The rest of the room's occupants stirred.
"Were you dating anyone this year, Charlotte?" The tall, dark haired man didn't even give her the courtesy of turning away from the fireplace mantel where he stood drinking his scotch.
Charlotte turned to look at his profile. "No, Uncle Sebastian. I did not date this year. I have found that boys tend to distract one from their studies."
The room relaxed marginally. Charlotte kept her composure. They were getting to the reason for this late night assembly. Charlotte could only imagine why that question and answer was important. Maybe her mother's first misdeeds were at this age?
"Charlotte, we wish to have a conversation with you about your future." Charlotte turned to face her seated Grandmother. The woman sat poker straight and poised while her look made the headmistress seem warm and inviting.
"Yes, ma'am?" Charlotte questioned defiantly confused on the direction this conversation was headed.
"You are intent on studying medicine still?" An elderly man limped forward regally on his cane. Charlotte's grandfather had fought in the Great War, as they called it, and was injured at some point. Though he recovered well enough to continue the fight, his injury began to bother him as he aged. She had not seen him without the cane in a few years. The cane and the limp only added to his still present handsomeness even at his age. Her eyes shot to her uncle wondering if he would age as gracefully as his harsh mannered father.
"Yes, Sir, I do." Charlotte answered. Her uncle's shoulders tensed. This was obviously not their hope.
"You are sure? Absolutely positive?" Her grandmother looked down her nose at Charlotte even while sitting in her throne like chair.
"Yes, Ma'am. I've even had the chance to help the school nurse and a pair of doctor's in a small village I visited." Charlotte deployed one of Ginny's tried and true tactics. Tell them the truth, to your advantage.
Aunt Agnes nodded, "Yes, your headmistress sent me a lovely letter about your help in the village. Simply terrible the barn collapsing on all of those people. The doctors were lucky you were on that school trip."
"Yes, ma'am. I did what I could. It is what any good person would have done."
"Enough," Her uncle finally came to the extent of his patience with whatever game they were playing. "Charlotte, I am going to speak plainly. I have noticed it is the best approach, especially when dealing with your kind."
"Of course, Uncle Sebastian. I would expect nothing different from you." Charlotte turned to face off with her uncle. The brother of her mother. A man with children both sides of Charlotte's age. The one three days after her mother's funeral had no issue telling the family right in front of her he would have nothing to do with her living with them and corrupting his children with her gypsy ways.
He rounded on her and narrowed his eyes. Charlotte held her head high, unflinching. She was a Weasley, and that name was recognized for bravery and courage. She would not fail them.
Her uncle was taken aback at her new fearlessness. He recovered quickly and continued. "You are becoming a beautiful woman, Charlotte. Even you must have realized by now, the Hartman name is known for its power and influence. As such, you must realize we travel in circles which demand respect and proper behavior. Your mother failed dismally at this. She never had an ounce of sense. You should have been left on the doorstep of an orphanage just like the other one."
"Other one?" Charlotte asked in horror hoping she was wrong.
"Your mother took a little 'trip' not to unlike the one you are going on this year. By the time she let anybody know what was happening, it was too late to rid her of the problem. She 'studied abroad' at a place known for discreetly handling such problems. The baby was born in late October. A boy, I believe. He was placed by an orphanage with a lovely family, not that we really cared. Your mother recovered and returned to the family by Christmas. So, again Charlotte, I ask you, with no concerns for your delicate disposition, are you pregnant?"
Charlotte glared at her uncle's uncaring face. She had just been told she had an older brother and his concern was not for the effect of this information would have on Charlotte, but if she was running away for similar reasons.
She needed to stay in control. Her uncle was a master negotiator. His information was for one purpose, to throw Charlotte off. One misstep now would be disastrous. She channeled her sister-in-law's bravery and cunning. "I will lay with no man other than my husband!"
"Charlotte! I will not abide by such dialogue in my house." Her aunt reacted to the crude speech of what she assumed was her Roma upbringing.
He studied her for a moment and seeing no deception, moved on. "Very well. This is encouraging. You have at least not followed in your mother's footsteps. It will make for a more alluring prospect. So many young women today do not hold to old values. You have a choice in your life you have probably not considered for years, Charlotte. Your kind do not allow their women to work."
"Which kind would that be, uncle? My father's people or my mother's?" Charlotte ground out her slight.
Her uncle chose to ignore her. "If you are willing to give up your career goals, your grandfather and I could secure you a good match with a prominent family. You're beautiful, usually well mannered, smart and caring. Any man would enjoy your company and comforts. In exchange for you being a dutiful wife and mother, he would provide you with a lifestyle of ease. If you still felt the need to help others, you could help with a charity. My Eleonore heads up a committee to organize the Christmas gifts every year for several disadvantaged children. Maybe you would like to help her."
Try as she might, she could not keep her composure. "You want to whore me out?"
"Charlotte!" Her aunt snapped again.
"It's a manner of how you choose to see it, dear Charlotte." Sebastian stormed in front of her stopping to lock eyes. "Judging from your attitude and your upbringing, you would naturally come to that conclusion. Your family wishes to see it another way. One in which we will secure your future where you will want for nothing. In exchange, you will be the mother to the next generation of the business aristocracy in England. One which could combine two powerful families and companies through marriage."
"You have always told me my father's family were barbarians. They, dear uncle, have nothing on you." Charlotte spat the words out at him.
His evil grin made her shiver. "Maybe not in your mind, but it is the way of the world."
Sebastian looked at his father. The man clicked forward on his cane. "Might I remind you, Charlotte, you do have a trust fund which was meant for your mother. It is to be given to you upon your marriage to an acceptable suiter."
Her eyes never left her uncles. "Keep your money. I don't want it."
"You live in this household at my discretion," Her aunt's threat was obvious.
"No problem." Charlotte said coolly. "Let me collect my things and I will be gone yet tonight. Might I borrow the phone to call a cab to take me back to the station? The Grey's have invited me to stay a few weeks. I'll just be on my way."
She did not wait for an answer, instead rounded on her heels and marched to the parlor door. She swung both doors open dramatically and stopped dead in her tracks. Giles blocked her exit.
She heard her uncle cross the room. He grabbed her arm and pulled her around. Her hand dropped to the wand pocket of her school skirt. "You will cooperate, Charlotte, if you do not want the whole of the law down upon you and your friend's families. One call to the authorities, and you are a run away."
Charlotte calculated. Could she really be found that easily? Arthur worried about this very issue. Too many questions existed she did not have the answers to. Her saving grace was in her pocket. Both of her pockets. Tuesday was not that far away. And for as much influence as her family had, Charlie's had more where it would count. His family refers to the Minister of Magic by his first name when he came over for Sunday dinner. The savior of the wizarding world considered her his sister. Uncle Sebastian would stand no chance against the man who defeated the darkest lord of the century.
Her uncle nodded. "Agnes, a compromise may be needed. How long is this ridiculous trip she is going on?"
"A year." The woman supplied.
"Ok, one year. You behave this weekend for our luncheon we have arranged to introduce you to our business associates, and we still allow you to leave. But you are the epitome of a docile lady. You dress how we ask, you act like we want, you perform flawlessly. If you do as you are told, Agnes signs the consent for you to leave the country. You can even attend the party for your friend in London before you go. But you will go on every date you are asked on between here and you leaving. Do you comprehend? One slip, and you are going nowhere. Are we understood?"
Charlotte debated for only a moment. Act the part of Charlotte Cooper for the weekend. Memory charms for the suitors explaining the perfectly wonderful date she was, and Charlotte goes to Romania. She nodded her head not looking at her uncle.
"Good. Your continued cooperation will lead to our continued cooperation." Sebastian rounded on the rest of his family. "Mother, go over the plans for tomorrow with Charlotte, please."
Charlotte stood in front to the mirror with two dresses in front of her. A third was hooked over the mirror.
"I really do like this red one. Charlotte, wherever did you find it?" Her Aunt Eleonore asked.
Charlotte smiled her new fake 'I am so happy to be accommodating' smile. "A second hand shop my friends and I visited on a fieldtrip."
Her aunt chuckled. "Always so frugal. You will have to change your ways once we have you married."
Behind her back, Charlotte's older cousin Tiffany rolled her eyes. Charlotte smiled at her. She knew without a doubt the girl despised her. She was furious her return from school party had been made a joint affair to show off Charlotte.
Tiffany's smirk was malicious. "I think the red. It matches her features splendidly. She will turn every head."
"I agree." Her aunt nodded. "The red it is. Your friends have an eye for fashion and excellent taste."
Tiffany's face lit up with glee. Charlotte had no doubts before the end of the day, everybody would know the dress was not new. Charlotte held her composure. If only her cousin knew how the dress had unceremoniously been flung across the room the prior evening while her husband had been driving her insane. Now, that story would cause a scandal worthy of her time and efforts.
"Charlotte, what is that ridiculous bracelet on your wrist?" Her grandmother snapped from her seat that the vanity.
Charlotte wrapped her opposing hand protectively around her hand fasting bands. "A friendship bracelet. Five friends woven together for a lifetime."
"You will take that ridiculous thing off for the party. Am I understood?"
Charlotte blanched as she considered the impossible. The band could not be removed from her wrist for a year and a day from their binding. Nor could it be concealed by magic. The red fidelity cord would prevent it. Her grandmother raised an eye at her. "I'll…I'll try, ma'am. It was shrunk to fit my wrist. The cords are thick and not easy to remove."
"It will be removed. Am I understood?"
Charlotte nodded still unsure what she would do.
"Well, that is settled. Charlotte finish getting ready now. We have about an hour before our guest arrive for drinks in the garden before the luncheon." Her aunt moved towards the door. "Tiffany, love. Let's get you in your new dress daddy bought you for today."
The group began to more out the door.
"Ma'am?" a quiet voice from the corner quietly disrupted the progress.
"Yes, Tess?" Aunt Agnes addressed the maid in the corner.
"Ma'am, do you think I could find a little something in your jewelry for Miss Charlotte to use for today. Nothing too much. Just to dress her up a bit?"
Agnes turned to appraise Charlotte and the dress. "Excellent idea, Tess. Find her a little something."
"Yes, Ma'am. Right away." The maid turned and left the room with the others following. Charlotte sat down on her bed trying not to cry. Her mind filtered through her options. Any attempt to remove the fasting band would be felt by Charlie. Would he think she was throwing away their marriage?
Tess walked back into the room and smiled at Charlotte conspiratorially. She held out a simple choker that would accent the collar of the dress perfectly. And in her other hand…A wide cuff bracelet large enough to cover the bonding cords.
Charlotte smiled back at the first of many allies this day.
Her grandfather shook hands with the gentlemen across from them. Charlotte was draped on his arm like a prized trophy. She smiled and laughed on que just like she was supposed to. Her grandfather waved the men off for drinks and refreshments. The young son, Charlotte just could not remember his name, leered back at her. She tried not to jump and shy away like the bond asked her too. Her grandfather looked down at her.
"Chill, Sorry." She smiled back.
"It is a bit drafty today. But your dress is way too beautiful to be hid under a wrap. I am pleased you are making the best of it." Her grandfather patted her arm. Charlotte gave him her fake smile again.
They proceeded through the garden, stopping occasionally to speak with people and introduce Charlotte. Across the garden, Tiffany glared daggers at Charlotte for her place of honor at her grandfather's side. Charlotte would have preferred to switch with her.
"Ah, the Malfoy's made it. Good. Good. Tragic events, really. The father died, leaving the young son in charge." Her grandfather redirected them to the entryway waving at the newcomers. "Several of the family's previous business associates have left them in the cold. They have money to invest, and we would like to help them on that path."
Charlotte looked up in shock, hoping she was not correct. Across the way, cool silver eyes studied her for a moment noting the recognition. He let his icy demeanor return. He leaned sideways and whispered something to the woman next to him who was clearly his mother. She looked up into Charlotte's eyes calculating. She asked Draco a question and he shook his head studying her.
Charlotte tried to remain calm. Harry defended the pair in the end. He was saved from death by the woman in front of her during the final battle. Harry told everybody the story countless times, trying to help the family make amends. Draco even lied to save Harry, Ron and Hermione when they were captured. If Harry could trust them, she needed to also.
Draco offered his arm to his mother and they met halfway. Her uncle also joined them. Obviously, the Malfoy's were important clientele.
Her grandfather beamed at the couple. "Charlotte, darling, I would like to introduce you to…"
"Charlotte! It's been a year. It's great to see you again." Draco smiled a jovial smile and pulled Charlotte into a close embrace.
Lucky for Charlotte, she could catch on quickly. "Draco. It's wonderful to see you again as well."
Her grandfather chortled. "How? Charlotte, you know Draco?"
Charlotte stepped away, smiling to play her part. Draco captured her hands to prevent her from putting them at her sides, stopping her from retrieving her wand. "Charlotte and I went to school together. Of course, I left a year ago and she was in another house, so we do not know each other as well as we should."
"Where you at the school during that tragic fire?" The elder Hartman asked with concern.
Draco's eyes darted to Charlotte's for confirmation then back to her grandfather. He let his perfect expression drop into one of sorrow. "Unfortunately, the whole family was there. The whole mess was started in my own house."
Some realization hit her uncle. "Oh, Draco. Mrs. Malfoy. This must be a painful meeting. Such a memory. We were only told it was an accident. The school fire was never even brought up."
Draco nodded his head and sighed dramatically. "Father survived for a short while after, but eventually could not recover from his involvement."
Charlotte tried to look sympathetic. Obviously half-truths were a common tactic. Malfoy senior had indeed been executed only a few months after the battle. If not for Harry's determination, his own son and wife would have faced the same fate.
He looked up through his lashes calculating. "Everything was a blur that day, Charlotte. I don't recall. Were you there?"
"As horribly as it was all going, I would guess you would not remember my presence. I was in the infirmary, trying to help Madam Pomfrey." Charlotte looked forlorn, allowing herself to fall into the memories form the battle.
"Charlotte mentioned to my aunt there were several parents present. Was there something special going on? Sebastian asked, confused as to the presence of the senior Malfoy.
Draco's hands tightened on hers. Charlotte looked into the face of her uncle. "Benefactor's weekend."
"Oh?" Sebastian looked taken aback. "Why were none of us there, Charlotte?"
'Because none of you even remember where I go to school' was what she wanted to say. Instead, she supplied the lie she always used, smirking in her mind. "I attend on full scholarship, uncle. People like the Malfoy family make sure all of the gifted and talented children of England are properly educated."
"I thought we paid for your schooling, Charlotte?" Sebastian asked in shock.
"No, mother could not afford my education when it was just the two of us. I received a full scholarship for my entire attendance." Charlotte looked wistfully at her uncle.
"Well, We will need to rectify that." Her grandfather interjected.
"Of course." Her uncle agreed. He tried to redirect the conversation to better topics for the pair. "So, Draco, are the house's divided so badly that you would never associate with my beautiful niece outside the school?"
Draco smiled at Charlotte trying to get her help. She looked pointedly at his mother's navy gown.
Draco smirked and nodded. "Now why would a smart Ravenclaw ever have anything to do with a snake such as myself."
He twisted her placing her arm through his and began to cross the lawn. "Tell me, how was school this year?"
Charlotte grimaced. He played his hand well. He held her by her wand arm. He bumped her hip and nodded confirming its location. "As well as you would expect for all we endured last year."
Mrs. Malfoy redirected her uncle and grandfather with a request to be introduced to their wives. Draco looked over his shoulder and back. "Keep smiling and help me out some. Do they know what you are? I have never gotten any indication they know about our world."
"No," Charlotte smiled at Draco playing her part. "They had little to do with me before a couple of years ago. This party is as much of a shock to me as it is for you."
"Your last name isn't Hartman, I remember that much now that you tell me you are a Ravenclaw."
"Weas…Cooper." She corrected.
Draco faltered. He looked around trying to think. He nodded. "Marriage Law."
"Yes."
He looked down at her hand. "Where is your ring?"
Charlotte brushed one of her stray curls behind her ear. The bonding cords just peaked out. Draco nodded. "Which one?"
"Charlie."
He acknowledged her with a nod again. "He was a seeker at one time. Curse breaker?"
"Dragon handler."
"If I let you go, are you going to try to hurt us?"
"Are you going to try to hurt me?"
Draco looked into her eyes. "No."
"Then no. I will not expose us if we are on neutral ground." Charlotte relaxed. A thought occurred to her. "Draco, why are you here?"
He grimaced. "The Malfoy name took a hit in our world. Luckily, we were diversified into muggle holdings. I managed to move most of our fortune that wasn't seized. I've reinvented myself out here for the time being. I have money, they need capital."
Aunt Agnes called the assembly to the tables just then. Draco escorted her to her seat and joined the others further down the table to discuss business. Charlotte sat stiffly between two of the men her grandfather had introduced her to earlier, wanting to dig the skin off her arms because of the bond.
The meal was finally finished, but Charlotte was not allowed to move. She was especially a prisoner until her family said she could get up. Her skin burned from the attention of the men around her. Down the table, Draco's voice carried along the conversations.
"As enchanting as all of your conversation and attentions have been, I believe I would like a stroll with someone a little closer to my age. He rose and joined the throng of young men at her table. He extended his hand to her. "I'm sure you have had a delightful time, but would you prefer a nice safe stroll. Gentlemen, anyone care to join us?"
Charlotte took Draco's hand and he helped her from her seat. While a few of the men scowled and remained where they were, a few others chortled and rose to their feet. They walked casually by the bar. One of them reached out to grab the whiskey, a few more retrieved some glasses, and one a glass of wine as they walked out of the view of the more senior members of the assembly. Draco deposited Charlotte in a seat next to the fountain and the glass of wine was placed in Charlotte's hand while the men distributed the glasses and whiskey. A pack of cigarettes made the rounds as well. Charlotte declined, Draco accepted.
One man lit his cigarette, inhaled deeply and exhaled as he spoke. "Anybody else sick of these little get-togethers yet?"
The men all chuckled. One looked at Charlotte with interest. "First time we ever brought the bird with us. What gives, Draco?"
Draco sneered. "Oh, don't worry, boys. This whole event is making Charlotte's skin crawl, I can assure you."
She glared, he smirked. "You see, men. Cooper here is intelligent. One of the brightest minds in our school. The last thing someone like her is considering is settling down and pushing out snobby aristocrats for an inattentive husband who can't wait to get to his mistress."
"So," Another man, David, Daniel, whatever asked, "What does the beautiful and smart Miss Cooper want to do with her life if it is not being pampered to boredom?"
"I want to become a doctor." Charlotte said waiting for the backlash.
"Really. That is a lofty goal. Do you have the grades to give it an honest go?" Another man asked.
"Of course she does." Draco supplied. "No way she would have made it into that house without them. They have some tough standards to even get in the door."
"So you were in the same house then?" one of them asked again.
Draco snorted. "Heavens, no. I'm not even smart enough for that lot."
The remaining men looked at her, impressed. One finally spoke up. "So why the bird again?"
"Use your head, man." One snorted. "So, Draco, what is your plan."
Draco turned to face Charlotte. She looked at him wearily. "When do you leave for Romania on you exchange program? Oh, boys, she is so good, she has already finished her course work and has been accepted into an early entrance program into Romania. At least, she will be if the uncle doesn't interfere."
"Ah, now I understand." The questioner nodded.
Charlotte was still lost. "The second week of July. One of my friends is getting married."
"Really," Draco inquired, "which one?"
"Luna Lovegood."
Draco snorted in his drink. "To?"
"Rolf Scamander." Charlotte glared at him.
Draco couldn't help but laugh. "Now there is a match made in the stars."
"I agree wholeheartedly," Charlotte snapped at him.
"Of course." Draco took another draw of his drink.
"So, I have a polo match I'm playing in on Wednesday." The 'D' name man offered, still to Charlotte's confusion.
Draco looked at Charlotte. "Available on Wednesday for a few hours to go to Derek's match?"
Charlotte continued to stare at Draco. Derek smirked at her. "You need some alibis I would guess, dates to get your uncle and grandfather off your back. We, on the other hand, are all happily dating women who our families would never approve of. When we are seen around with the new socialites, it makes the families happy. Sometimes it's one of the other's girlfriends. You are absolutely a perfect fit. I have a dinner meeting with my father and your uncle on Friday. I talk about our date, add some comments about how wonderful it would be to have a wife who is a doctor and just like that, you are on your way to Romania to become a doctor."
"That charity ball is on Friday. How about you meet me there, Charlotte? We dance a couple of dances and leave for a quieter pursuits. Whole mess should to done by 8 or 8:30 tops." Another offered.
"Will you be seeing the family, Chandler?" Draco asked.
"The following week." Chandler grinned. "I too am going to study medicine. What a great pair we would make. Don't you think?"
"Brilliant!" Charlotte grinned.
"When do you head back to the Weasleys?" Draco asked.
"Monday afternoon, if they don't prevent it." Charlotte looked worried.
"Not to worry. You will accompany me and my mother back. They will not stop you." Draco looked bored.
A minute later, Tiffany's tinkling laugh could be heard coming around the corner. The men groaned.
Chandler helped Charlotte out of the cab and into King's Cross. Both were dressed for traveling. Charlotte to Wales for Luna's wedding. Chandler to the coast for a weekend getaway with his girlfriend.
"Remember, if anyone ask, we are meeting in that pub for a final visit on Monday before you leave." Chandler told her desperately as they made their way to their platforms. At least Chandler's platform. Charlotte would be appearating straight to Wales.
"Of course. Have a great time with Maggie." The pair had devised a way for the young couple to be able to have a dinner out even if they were noticed by someone Chandler knew. Luckily, Maggie had dark hair like Charlotte. She simply had to wear it up. Anyone who asked about the dark hair beauty would be told it was Charlotte. Maggie was ecstatic to finally be able to go out in public for a night out on Chandler's arm.
He drew her into a hug as he reached his destination. "Good luck in Romania."
Charlotte stepped away and grabbed his hand. "And you at Cambridge. Thank you. I appreciate everything you and the others have done."
Chandler looked over her shoulder and smiled. "He's waiting. Get going."
Charlotte turned and located Charlie standing across the station, leaning on the wall waiting for her. He nodded at the pair. Chandler nodded back.
Charlotte said a final goodbye and strode across the station. She nodded to a dark haired woman reading a book waiting to catch the same train as Chandler. She smiled back and mouthed a 'thank you'.
Charlotte continued past where Charlie was standing and around the corner. He caught up quickly and grabbed her hand. The first opportunity they had they slipped down a side passage and Charlotte transported them to Wales.
They landed on a lane in the wild hillsides, the Scamander's estate was just over the hill through the woods. Charlotte and Charlie were staying there since the prior night to allow for Charlotte to help Luna get ready for the wedding. Gillian and she were sharing a cabin on the property. Lucky for them, the cabin had two bedrooms.
Charlie wrapped her in his arms and kissed her. They pulled apart and Charlie looked at her, trying to look unaffected. "So, how was your date?"
Charlotte rolled her eyes. "We walked around, talked to a few people, danced twice and left. If anybody were to ask, we were there."
"So, nothing exciting?" Charlie grabbed her and began the assent to their temporary lodging.
Charlotte laughed. "Jealous doesn't look good on you, Charlie."
He scowled at her. She smiled back and pulled him down to her lips. "It was functional. Nothing like the disastrous ones you have taken me on."
"Disastrous?" Charlie challenged with little heat.
"Yes," Charlotte laughed. "Don't try to deny it. At the end of our first date, you tried to broom me to the gutter. The second, you got into a bar fight and ended up restrained on your knees."
Charlie looked chagrined. "In my defense, both times I had your best interest in mind."
She looked up at him, doubtfully. He smirked back ready to defend himself. "That first date, I was mental and exhausted and all I could think about was you having to give up everything. The second, I think I deserve a medal for not killing the both of them for hurting you."
"My hero," Charlotte said dryly.
Charlie laughed. He walked quietly for a minute before he spoke again. "It was hard, watching you go off with all of them."
Charlotte frowned. "It's over now. I'll be an adult in the eyes of the muggle world in four months and they will have no more say in my life."
Charlie nodded. "It was still rubbish."
She sighed. "I was dropped at Draco's inn, had coffee, watched a polo match, and went dancing. Oh, I am, supposedly, going to lunch on Monday at the coast. That is all. Every one of them knew about you. Every one of them respected your decision to participate for all of our benefits."
"Did they know we were married?" Charlie grumbled.
"Draco thought it best to explain we were engaged. Not having a ring could be hard to explain. It is just a difference between our worlds, one which I can deal with."
Charlie continued to sulk. Charlotte sighed. "Do you know, the entire time I was with every one of them, the bond never reacted once. They all understood no one had my affections but you."
Finally placated, he raised her hand to his lips and kissed the back. She knew what was coming, just like every one of her other 'dates'. Like all alpha males, Charlie had to reassert his territory. Not that she had minded, not at all.
They crested the hill and crossed the wards. Charlotte moved to turn towards the cabin only to have Charlie pull her the other way. "Where are we going?"
Charlie smiled. "Hopefully somewhere that will not be disastrous."
She studied him for a moment, but he would say no more. They proceeded further up the hillside to a flat area overlooking the Scamander grounds. A blanket was laid out, along with a basket. Charlie pulled her down beside him on the ground. The view was breathtaking, below several of the Schmander's charges went about their lives. Further away, the pavilion that was constructed for tomorrow lay dark waiting for the festivities to begin in the morning.
Charlie reached in the basket and pulled out some elf made wine and poured them each a glass. He handed one to Charlotte and held his aloft.
Charlotte mimicked his actions. "What are we celebrating?"
"A lot of things. The end of your formal education, you leaving your family, the end of those blasted dates, to Romania being your new home, to us fulfilling the concessions successfully, and the beginning of our life together, finally." Charlie clinked her glass and she drank with a smile.
He pulled her between his knees and reclined her against his chest. She sighed in contentment. For a long time, they sat there just watching the stars, drinking their wine and snacking on the fare in the basket. They talked about nothing in particular. What Charlotte wanted changed in their Romanian cabin, which was little. They discussed their family and the upcoming wedding. Charlotte finally thought to ask about where their children would go to school. They teased each other about which house they would be in and if they would be able to play quidditch like Charlie. Occasionally, Charlie would kiss her collarbones like he preferred.
Eventually, his kisses and caresses became bolder until they were laid out on the blanket, taking their time making love under the stars.