A/N - Thank you all for the great responses to the last chapter! I'm so glad everyone liked it! Hope you all enjoy this chapter!

Chapter 58

Party

9 April 2000

When Hermione woke, Remus was spooned behind her, his arm around her middle, his face buried in her hair. She smiled and relaxed further against him, glancing at the clock on her bedside table. Remus would have to leave soon, but they still had some time.

Her mind wandered to Teddy's party. She wondered if Ron would still show up, knowing how angry Remus had been with him. Not that Hermione hadn't been furious. She had thought, after all these years, Ron would have learned to think before reacting. Hermione figured Ron had gone straight to Grimmauld after their argument. Hopefully, Harry had been able to talk some sense into him. Or maybe Ginny had just bat bogeyed him. Hermione failed to hold back a snicker.

"Something funny?" a sleepy voice behind her asked.

"It's nothing," Hermione said, smile still on her face. Remus kissed her shoulder and then the side of her neck. His arm tightened around her and he pulled her closer to him. He nuzzled her neck again. Hermione rolled to face him.

"Good morning," she said after he'd kissed her. He smiled.

"Did you sleep all right?" he asked. She nodded.

"You?"

"Wonderfully." He began to run his fingers up and down her arm. "What time is it?"

"Half seven."

"We still have a bit of time," he said. Hermione smiled at him, then maneuvered herself so she was straddling him.

"Well in that case," she said, grinning wickedly. Remus chuckled and pulled her forward to kiss her, her hair hanging in a curtain around their faces. She sat up and repositioned herself, then sank down on him and he seemed to lose his focus for a few moments. Hermione began to move, her hands braced against his chest, until he pulled her to him for another kiss.

Not long later, she collapsed against him, both of them out of breath, his arm coming around her back to hold her to him. When they had recovered slightly, he pushed the hair back from her face and rolled them to the side before he kissed her again.

"I've got to leave soon," he said, resting his forehead against hers.

"I know," she replied, tracing the scar on his chest from Prongs' antlers. He pushed back from her, propping himself up on an elbow and looked at her quizzically.

"Are you all right?"

"Yes," she said.

"Hermione," he said, his tone letting her know that he didn't believe her.

"I don't want to tell you," she replied. Remus' brow furrowed.

"Why not?"

"Because it makes me sound like a selfish brat."

"I doubt you could ever be a selfish brat," Remus said in amusement. She scowled at him and he chuckled. "Besides, I have an idea of what you're thinking."

"That I want to keep you here, lock the Floo, ward the doors and unplug the phone for the next week?"

"Exactly." She grinned.

"One day, love, I promise you," he said. Hermione looked up at him with such want in her eyes that he kissed her again, fiercely. They were both panting for breath when they parted. He rested his forehead against hers again.

"You're not making this easy for me," he groaned.

"Teddy," she said. "Think of Teddy." The mention of his son cooled his desire quite sufficiently and she laughed as he rolled away from her.

"Do you want to shower here?" she asked innocently. His eyes narrowed.

"I think that would be a very dangerous, very bad idea." She pouted and he kissed the tip of her nose before he rose from the bed. He picked up his wand and cast a cleansing charm on himself before he pulled on his pants and his trousers. He would shower when he got home. She sat up in bed, pulling the sheet up with her, for which he was grateful. He was distracted enough without staring at her breasts while he tried to get dressed.

When he started buttoning his shirt, she got up as well and he watched as she pulled on the jumper from the night before. His fingers fumbled on a button and he looked down when she laughed. He had missed a button and his shirt was crooked. She walked towards him, redoing the buttons and straightening his shirt. He put a hand behind her head and kissed her once more.

"Teddy, his party, I've got to go," he said as he finally pulled away from her.

"Right," she said. She shook her head as if to clear it, then took his hand and led him to the living room.

"Shall I come over a little early?" she asked.

"If you like," he replied with a smile. Truth be told, it would be nice to have a bit more time with her before they had to act as if they were just friends again. Most of the guests didn't know about them after all.

"All right, I'll be there once I've eaten and showered." Remus' eyes briefly glazed over at the thought of her in the shower. She smirked, and he shook his head.

"Minx," he said. "I'll see you in a bit."

"I love you." Remus smiled and kissed her one last time.

"I love you, too." Then he threw the Floo powder into the fireplace and forced himself to step through.

"Good morning," Andromeda said as Remus walked into the kitchen. She was just setting Teddy's breakfast in front of him.

"Daddy!" Teddy said, grinning and switching his hair to Remus' own sandy brown.

"Good morning," Remus replied, ruffling Teddy's hair. Andromeda dished up another plate of eggs and handed it to Remus. She sent the platter of bacon and bowl of fruit to the table before sitting down with her own plate.

"You had a good evening, I trust," she said and Remus immediately reddened. Andromeda chuckled.

"Yes, I, I did," he said clearing his throat.

"And did Hermione have a good evening as well?" He glanced at her and Remus could see the amusement in her eyes. He sighed.

"My-nee!" Teddy called around a mouthful of eggs. "My-nee see me, Daddy?"

"Yes," Remus said to his son with a smile. "Hermione will be here for your party."

"Take!" Teddy said in excitement. Remus chuckled.

"Yes, we're going to have cake." Teddy nodded happily and returned to his breakfast. Remus shook his head fondly and turned back to Andromeda. She was still smirking.

"Do you enjoy making me feel like a teenager trying to hide something?" he asked in exasperation.

"But it's so easy, darling," she said, taking a sip of her tea. Remus couldn't help but laugh. She reached over and patted his hand. "In all seriousness, I am very happy for you. Hermione is a lovely woman. You two are good for one another." Remus turned his hand, so he was grasping Andromeda's.

"Thank you," he said, kissing the back of her hand. She smiled at him and they both returned to their breakfast.

Hermione glanced in the mirror one last time, then took a deep breath to try and settle her nerves. Andromeda had never been anything but supportive of Hermione and Remus' relationship. But now that they'd spent the night together, Hermione was concerned about what the older woman might think. Remus had been her daughter's husband, after all.

Deciding that worrying about it wasn't going to make it any easier, Hermione resolutely walked to the fireplace and threw the powder into the grate.

When she stepped into Remus' living room, it was quiet, the only sounds coming from the kitchen.

"Hello?" Hermione called as she began to walk towards the kitchen.

"Oh, Hermione, hello," Andromeda said with a smile as she came into the living room, wiping her hands on a towel. "Remus said you might be coming over a bit early."

"Where's the birthday boy?" Hermione asked. Andromeda rolled her eyes.

"Remus is upstairs changing Teddy's clothes. He spilled an entire glass of juice down his front." Hermione laughed.

"Can I help you with anything?"

"Of course, come into the kitchen." Hermione followed, relaxing a bit that Andromeda wasn't treating her any differently than usual. Andromeda set Hermione to helping organize the trays of food. They were serving lunch so that the festivities would be over in time for Teddy to take a nap.

"May I ask you something?" Andromeda said after a few moments. Hermione tensed and hoped the other woman didn't notice.

"Of course," she said.

"Are the two of you still not telling anyone about your relationship?" Hermione worried her lip between her teeth.

"We told Ron last night and it didn't go well," Hermione said.

"Remus mentioned that." Andromeda paused. "There are going to be quite a few people here today that do not know." Hermione looked up at her, wondering what she was getting at.

"I have seen the way Remus looks at you," Andromeda continued. "And you him. Are you sure that you will be able to pretend today? Especially after last night?" Hermione blushed.

"I do not mean to embarrass you," the older woman said quickly. "The specifics of your relationship are not my business. I just do not want you to have to explain something if you are not ready."

"I understand," Hermione said. "I, we, haven't really discussed it."

"Perhaps you should," Andromeda said. "There is still time before the party." Hermione nodded. Andromeda smiled and returned to her food preparation just as Remus and Teddy walked into the kitchen.

"My-nee!" Teddy cried and he ran towards her.

"Happy Birthday," she said as she bent down to pick him up.

"Me two!" Teddy said excitedly and tried to hold up two fingers. He frowned as some of his fingers refused to cooperate. Remus stepped closer and helped, Teddy looking proud of himself as he finally held up two fingers.

"You are," Hermione agreed with a laugh. She looked up at Remus who smiled at her softly. Hermione tried to return it, but Andromeda's words still echoed in her head. Remus frowned and stepped closer to her, putting a hand on her arm. Hermione shook her head and indicated Teddy. Remus nodded and stepped back from her.

"Teddy," he said. "Shall we go outside and put up the decorations for your party?"

"Yes!" Teddy exclaimed, throwing his hands up in the air. Hermione couldn't help but laugh. She set him down and he raced to the back door.

"Does he ever walk anywhere anymore?" she asked.

"Not usually," Remus said. While Teddy was busy trying to reach the doorknob, Remus leaned in and kissed her quickly. Then he returned his attention to his son, helping Teddy with the door and following him outside.

Hermione returned to the kitchen and after a few minutes, Andromeda turned to her.

"I can finish with this," she said. "Why don't you go outside and help Remus? I am certain that Teddy will make more of a mess than anything."

"Are you sure?" Hermione asked. Andromeda nodded and returned to the cake that was currently icing itself. "All right, just let me know if you need more help."

"I will, thank you," Andromeda said with a smile.

Hermione walked out into the backyard where Remus was directing streamers and ribbons with his wand. He had filled a few balloons and Teddy was alternately trying to kick them around the garden and falling on top of them, squealing with laughter when he bounced and then rolled to the ground. The balloons had obviously been charmed not to break.

Remus paused in his decorating when she reached his side.

"What's the matter?" he immediately asked.

"Nothing really," Hermione said. "It's just, Andromeda pointed out that it was going to be difficult for us to keep our feelings to ourselves during the party."

"Does she think I'm going to ravage you in front of the guests?" Remus quipped. Hermione couldn't help but laugh, although at talk of ravaging, something flipped in her belly. She stared up at him, swallowing thickly. Focus, Hermione, she chastised herself.

"No, but she said she's seen the way we look at one another." Studying his face, Hermione immediately saw what Andromeda was talking about. It was something about his smile and the way his features softened. Although at Hermione's reaction to his words, there was now a hunger in his eyes as well. She dropped her gaze and pulled in a breath. She heard him do the same a moment later.

"Yes, well, I suppose I can see what she's talking about," Remus said. Hermione gave a shaky laugh. "What do you want to do, love?"

"I don't know," Hermione said with a sigh. "Things went so badly with Ron last night and I don't want to ruin Teddy's birthday." She looked up at him again. "It's only for a few hours." Remus nodded and stepped closer to her, kissing her forehead. Hermione's eyes closed and she breathed him in, chocolate and old books and the forest.

At a shout from Teddy, they stepped back from one another and Hermione was soon occupied with a toddler that was babbling away to her about the balloons and his cake and the gifts he had already received. She glanced over her shoulder at Remus who had resumed hanging the decorations. He smiled at her and Hermione returned her attention to Teddy, wondering if she had made the right decision.

Ginny came through the Floo, followed closely by Harry. Teddy ran towards them and Harry swung him up, then hung him over his shoulder. Teddy giggled like mad as Ginny planted kisses all over his face. When Harry righted the little boy, he was grinning widely and a little red in the face.

"Happy Birthday, mate."

"Two!" Teddy crowed as he managed to hold up two fingers. Hermione couldn't help but laugh. "Pay me, pay me, Ha-wy!"

"How about you get it all set up and I'll be there in just a few minutes, all right?" Teddy nodded enthusiastically. Harry set him on his feet and the little boy scampered over to his toy basket. Harry and Ginny turned to Hermione.

"You all right?" Harry asked in concern.

"I'm fine, Harry." Hermione turned to Ginny. "I'm so sorry I missed your game yesterday." Ginny waved off her apology.

"That doesn't matter. What happened, Hermione?" Hermione sighed and glanced at Remus. He gave her an encouraging smile. She quickly explained what had happened when she saw Mrs. Malfoy, keeping her voice low so Teddy wouldn't overhear.

"Hermione," Ginny said in sympathy, hugging her friend tightly. Harry turned to Remus.

"Thank you for being there for her," Harry said.

"I wouldn't have been anywhere else," Remus said. Hermione caught his eye over Ginny's shoulder and she smiled. Remus returned it and when Ginny let Hermione go, she looked quickly between the two of them. She gave them both a knowing look and then whispered something in Hermione's ear. Hermione shook her head in exasperation.

"We'll be right back," Hermione said as Ginny towed her from the room.

Harry, who had been distracted by Teddy seemed not to hear because when he turned around, he looked confused as to where the women had gone.

"Ginny wanted to talk to Hermione for a moment," Remus said, hoping his voice didn't betray him. He was having a hard time keeping his expression neutral.

"Oh, before I forget," Harry said, leaving Teddy to his toys for a moment. "Here." Harry began pulling gifts out of his pockets and enlarging them.

"I told you not to spoil him," Remus said. Harry grinned sheepishly

"In my defense, one of those is from Ron," Harry said. "He's not going to be able to make it. Ate something that didn't agree with him yesterday, I guess." Remus stared at Harry, but the younger man seemed to be telling the truth.

"You didn't speak with him last night?" Remus asked.

"No, he went to Susan's after the match," Harry said. "Why?"

"He showed up at Hermione's."

"He didn't," Harry said. Remus sighed and nodded. "You were there I take it?"

"Not at first," Remus said. "I had come home to speak with Andromeda for a moment. When I got back, he was there." Harry scrubbed a hand down his face.

"He knows then, I'm guessing."

"Yes, and he didn't take it well." Harry swore under his breath. Remus glanced at Teddy, but his son seemed oblivious.

"What did he say?"

"I believe the age difference is his biggest issue," Remus said. "He also accused Hermione of being involved with me while she was still dating him." Harry's eyes widened and then he grimaced.

"You didn't, er, kill him or anything did you?"

"No," Remus said, his eyes flashing. "Not that the thought didn't cross my mind."

"Ron can be…irrational at times," Harry said. "He doesn't always think before he speaks."

"I'm aware," Remus replied. "He did apologize immediately afterward. I don't think he meant to say it."

"Still," Harry said. "How did Hermione take it?"

"She was angry about what he insinuated, of course, but I think she's more upset about his rejection of the two of us than she's letting on." Harry nodded grimly.

"I'll talk to him."

"I don't think you should do that, Harry."

"Why not?"

"I doubt Hermione wants Ron to accept our relationship because you pushed him into it. I don't either, for that matter. He's got to come to it on his own."

"Yeah, I suppose you're right."

"I wouldn't object to you beating some sense into him, however." Harry laughed. Teddy looked up at that.

"Ha-wy pay!"

"All right, I'm coming," Harry said and joined Teddy on the floor of the living room.

Ginny towed Hermione up the stairs and into the loo, casting a Muffliato around them even as she locked the door.

"You slept with Remus," she said when she turned around, sounding almost giddy. Hermione shook her head.

"Do I even want to know how you know that?" Ginny shrugged a shoulder.

"It's a gift."

"It's also none of your business," Hermione said. Ginny rolled her eyes.

"Oh, come on, Hermione, you know I'm going to get it out of you eventually, so you might as well spill." Hermione sighed.

"Fine, yes, I did." Ginny grinned.

"How was it?"

"I am not giving you details, Ginevra Weasley!" Ginny pouted.

"You're no fun." Hermione crossed her arms over her chest.

"You're incorrigible." Then, her eyes narrowed. "Wait a minute, Ron told you, didn't he?"

"Ron?" Ginny questioned in confusion. "How does Ron know that you and Remus had sex?"

"Didn't he come home last night after he was at my house?"

"He was at your house? Why?"

"He was worried after Remus sent the Patronus to Harry at your match."

"Oh gods, did he walk in on you two?" Ginny asked in horror.

"Give me a bit of credit, Gin. I do know how to ward my house against interruptions."

"Well, I mean, after the way Harry found out, can you blame me for asking?"

"Point taken," Hermione replied, going a bit pink in the face. "No, he didn't walk in on us. Remus wasn't even there, at first."

"So, Ron knows." Hermione nodded. "How did he take it?"

"Not well," Hermione admitted.

"Gods, what did he say?" Ginny asked in resignation.

"He was upset about the age difference. But, then he-" Hermione trailed off and bit her lip.

"He what?" Ginny asked, eyes narrowed.

"Back when we were dating, he accused me of being involved with Remus."

"He what!" Ginny shrieked. Hermione ignored her outburst.

"He brought it up again last night."

"That stupid git! When is he going to learn to keep his mouth shut?" Then she paled. "Oh Merlin, what did Remus do?"

"He was really angry, Gin. I don't, well, I haven't seen him like that since third year."

"Ron's lucky he's not dead," Ginny muttered. She sighed and looked at Hermione. "Are you okay?"

"What do you mean?" Hermione asked, although she was having a hard time keeping her disappointment hidden.

"You don't have to pretend, Hermione," Ginny said quietly. "I know you're upset."

"I just thought that, now that he was dating Susan, that he'd want me to be happy too," Hermione said with a shrug. She looked away and blinked rapidly.

"Oh, Hermione," Ginny said, pulling her friend into a hug. Hermione sniffled, but refused to let her tears fall. She was not going to cry over Ron again.

"I'll talk to him," Ginny said.

"No," Hermione insisted, pulling back to look Ginny in the eye. Ginny looked confused. "I don't want him to say he's okay with me dating Remus because you bullied him into it. He has to decide for himself."

"And if he doesn't?" Hermione shrugged.

"Then he doesn't." Ginny looked at her skeptically. "Promise me you won't push him, Ginny." Ginny sighed.

"All right, I promise."

"Thanks."

"I'm still going to tell him he's a git," Ginny said, and Hermione laughed.

"I wouldn't expect anything less." Ginny smiled and dropped the spells on the bathroom, then linked arms with Hermione. The two made their way back down to the living room where both Harry and Remus were sitting on the floor next to Teddy, engaged in a ferocious battle between dragons, knights and Quidditch players.

Hermione braced her hands against the sink in the loo and blew out a breath. This was torture. Complete and utter torture. She never thought that acting as if she and Remus were just friends would be this difficult. She was having a hard time remembering why she thought they should keep up this charade in the first place.

But then she thought about Ron's reaction last night and what Molly's would likely be. Hermione had had enough emotional upheaval in the last week to last her a lifetime. She didn't think that she could add any more. Besides, today was about Teddy, not her.

She took another breath and straightened, looking at herself in the mirror. It was nearly time for Teddy's cake, the party wouldn't last much longer. She could do this.

Remus found himself continually looking for Hermione throughout the party. No matter who he was talking to, his eyes were always drawn to her. By unspoken agreement, they had kept their distance from one another, rarely talking to the same people at the same time. Remus had managed to avoid Molly Weasley for the most part. He had spoken to her briefly after she and Arthur arrived. Like her daughter, Molly was entirely too good at figuring things out and Remus thought it better if he wasn't talking to her when he was searching the crowd for Hermione.

Hermione had disappeared into the house a few moments ago and it took everything Remus had not to follow her inside. There were plenty of rooms in the house with doors that could be warded and locked. The upstairs loo had a counter that was just the right height for…Stop it, Remus chastised himself. It's your son's birthday party for fuck's sake.

"I'm sorry, what?" he said to Minerva.

"I asked if you were all right," Minerva replied. She frowned. "You're looking a bit peaky."

"I'm fine," Remus assured her. Minerva didn't look convinced, but she didn't press the issue.

"As I was saying, I would like to speak with you soon about guest lecturing next year. Perhaps next week?"

"The trials begin next week," Remus said, his jaw tightening.

"Ah, yes, that's right. I expect you will be attending?"

"Yes," Remus replied. Minerva nodded in understanding.

"We will be in touch afterward then." Remus nodded in agreement, just as Hermione came back outside. He glanced at her and their eyes met for a moment before she turned towards Harry and Ginny.

"Does Hermione seem all right to you?" Minerva asked and Remus' head swung back towards the older witch.

"What do you mean?"

"I was speaking with her earlier and she seemed…distracted, even a bit jumpy."

"Oh, I, er, hadn't really noticed," Remus replied. He felt Minerva's eyes on him and forced himself to meet her gaze. She was studying him like she had when he was a student and the Marauders had been called into her office on suspicion of playing some prank or another. He tried not to fidget like a third year.

"Hm," Minerva said noncommittally, but Remus could almost see the gears turning in her head. Thankfully, Andromeda gestured to him from across the garden.

"It looks as if it is time for cake," Remus said. "I'll speak with you later." He turned to walk towards the house and could feel Minerva's eyes on him the entire time. This was torture.

Teddy was nearly asleep in Hermione's arms. After they'd served the cake, he had opened all his gifts and then insisted on playing with everything. Hermione had been reading him one of his new books when he started nodding off. Picking him up, he had snuggled into her and closed his eyes, only to open them every minute or so to tell her something about one of his new toys. Hermione looked up to see Remus approaching.

"Is he asleep?" Remus asked.

"Nearly," Hermione said as Teddy mumbled something.

"I can take him."

"No, we're all right," Hermione said with a smile. "I'll just go and put him down." Remus nodded and Hermione walked into the house. She carefully climbed the stairs as Teddy's breathing evened out and she knew he was truly asleep. Once inside his room, she stood and swayed for a few moments, not wanting to put down the comforting weight of him just yet. Finally, she kissed his forehead and settled him into his cot. He turned on his side and reached out for something. Hermione put Padfoot into his arms and Teddy pulled the toy into his body before he sighed and settled back into sleep. Hermione smiled and ran a hand over his head before she covered him with a blanket. When she turned around, Remus was standing in the doorway.

He smiled at her and stepped into the room and she walked into his arms in relief. Finally, they had a moment to themselves. Hermione stood content in his embrace, until he stepped back and pulled her out into the corridor. He pulled Teddy's door mostly closed and then leaned down and kissed her.

Hermione knew she made some kind of whimpering, needy noise and Remus deepened the kiss. She lost herself in him for several minutes before she finally had to pull away to breathe. Remus looked down at her.

"I don't want to walk back outside by myself," he said.

"What?" she questioned, although she knew exactly what he meant.

"Teddy's party is over, well his part in it anyway. Nothing will be ruined." She stared up at him. "The most important people already know and with the exception of Ron, they support us." Hermione worried her lip between her teeth.

"These are our friends, Hermione. The Weasleys are like family."

"That's what will make it hurt more if they don't, if they can't," she trailed off and Remus pulled her into his arms once more.

"I'm not going to force you but this whole afternoon has been torture, not being able to touch you, being worried about the way I'm looking at you."

"I know," she said resting her forehead against his chest. She agreed with everything he said, these were their friends, their family.

"No matter what happens, we'll get through this, love. Together." She looked up at him again and smiled. He was right. No matter what anyone else thought, she loved him and she wasn't going to give that up just because some people couldn't get over the age difference or the werewolf thing or whatever other stupid excuse they came up with.

"Yes," she said.

"You're sure?" She nodded. He bent down to kiss her once more, then smiled and took her hand. Hermione took a deep breath and followed him down the stairs. Ginny was just coming inside when they reached the back door. She looked at them, then their clasped hands and grinned.

"Getting it over with all at once?" Hermione nodded. "Suppose I'd better hurry then." Remus chuckled as she dashed off to the downstairs loo.

"Should we wait?" he joked. Hermione rolled her eyes.

"Honestly, she's probably expecting us to." Remus laughed again and leaned down to kiss her. Ginny came out of the loo seconds later.

"Oh good, you waited," she said with a grin. "See you outside." She winked at the two of them and walked through the door. Hermione and Remus waited a few seconds and then followed.

Andromeda saw them first. Her eyes widened for a moment and then a pleased smile graced her face. She squeezed Remus' arm as they walked by.

"Where to first?" he asked.

"I don't want to make a bit announcement. Can we just go talk to Harry and Ginny and wait for people to notice?" Remus nodded and they walked a few feet to where Harry and Ginny were standing. Ginny wore a large grin, but Harry looked a bit nervous, glancing at Molly from the corner of his eye every few seconds.

"You sure about this?" he asked Hermione.

"It's time, Harry." He leaned over and kissed her cheek.

"You know we're here for the two of you, right?" Hermione fought back the tears.

"We do," Remus answered for her, clapping Harry on the shoulder.

"Actually, we have a bit of news while we wait for the fireworks to start," Ginny said.

"Ginny," Harry hissed.

"What?" Ginny asked innocently. Hermione laughed.

"It's fine, Harry," she said, stepping a bit closer to Remus. "We're ready for it. What's your news?"

"Harry and I set a date."

"Oh, when?" Hermione asked excitedly.

"October twenty-eighth," Harry said. He put an arm around Ginny and kissed her temple. Hermione glanced at Remus who looked a bit pained.

"That's near to," Hermione began, then trailing off and looking at Harry uncertainly.

"Halloween, we know," he said. "We planned it that way on purpose."

"Putting some happiness into an otherwise sad time," Ginny said. Hermione squeezed Remus' hand in comfort.

"I think it's brilliant," Hermione said. Remus put a hand on Harry's shoulder.

"James and Lily would approve," he said. Harry looked relieved.

"We want Teddy to be the ring bearer," Ginny said. Hermione grinned, picturing the little boy in tiny dress robes.

"Remus," a voice behind them said. "I've got to get back to Hog-" Minerva trailed off as she noticed Hermione and Remus' entwined hands. She looked between the two of them in shock.

"Oh, Hermione, there you are. I wanted to ask you," Molly gasped. Remus dropped Hermione's hand and put an arm around her waist instead.

"What, what is this?" Molly demanded.

"What does it look like, Mum?" Ginny said with a roll of her eyes.

"I'll have no cheek from you, young lady," Molly retorted. Ginny muttered something under her breath.

"Remus?" Minerva questioned.

"We're together," Hermione said, a bit irritated that everyone was staring at Remus as if he'd done something wrong.

"Together," Molly repeated, sounding eerily like Ron.

"Yes," Hermione said, resisting the urge to roll her eyes.

"Well," Minerva said. She looked from one to the other again, seeming to be at a loss for anything else to say. Hermione saw that they had attracted the attention of everyone else at the party and they all began wandering over to see what the fuss was about. George took one look at the two of them and grinned widely. Hermione bit her lip to keep from smiling back at him.

"Good on you, Remus."

"George!" Molly exclaimed.

"What?" he said innocently. She glared at him and George just shrugged, giving Hermione and Remus a thumb's up behind his mother's back. Remus swallowed back a snort.

"I zink eet ees lovely," Fleur said. She turned to Bill, who had a knowing smirk on his face. "Bill, I am tired. Per'aps we could go 'ome."

"Of course, love," Bill said. The couple said their good-byes and made their way back into the house to use the Floo, Fleur being too far along to Apparate safely. Percy looked a bit uncomfortable, likely more about his mother's reaction than his personal feelings about the two of them. He gave both Remus and Hermione a tight smile before leaving as well. George, on the other hand, seemed in no hurry to miss the confrontation between his mother and the new couple.

"I don't understand how this happened," Molly said, looking between the two of them. She stared at Remus as if she was accusing him of something.

"It happened in the way these things usually happen, Molly," Hermione said patiently.

"Hermione," Molly said, speaking as if she were talking to a small child. "Remus is, well, he's much older than you are."

"I hadn't noticed," Hermione said dryly.

"Molly, if you remember correctly, Remus was thirteen years older than Nymphadora and you were their biggest supporter," Andromeda said as she stepped up next to Remus. Hermione smiled at her gratefully.

"You were aware of this?" Molly asked.

"Of course, I was," Andromeda replied. "And I could not be happier for them." Molly's mouth opened and closed again, staring at the scene before her in complete consternation.

"I must take my leave," Minerva said. She looked between Remus and Hermione again and then gave them both a small smile. It was as good as approval, as far as Hermione was concerned.

"Thank you for coming, Minerva," Remus said.

"I will be in touch," she said, and Remus nodded.

"Hermione, dear, can I speak with you privately?" Molly said.

"Molly," Arthur said in warning.

"It's all right, Arthur," Hermione said.

"Are you sure?" Remus said as Hermione looked up at him.

"It will be fine," she said. His lips brushed her temple and she squeezed his hand, then followed Molly to the far corner of the garden.

"Molly, I understand this is a shock, but we're both very happy." Molly took Hermione's hands in hers.

"Hermione, I care for Remus very much, but he's old enough to be your father. Not to mention that he's a father himself. You're so young, dear."

"So, thirteen years is all right, but twenty is too many?" Hermione asked.

"It was clear to me that Tonks was the one pursuing Remus," Molly said, brushing off Hermione's question. "I just want to be sure that you, well, you weren't…coerced." Hermione stared at her in shock for a few moments, then pulled her hands away.

"Do you honestly think that Remus is capable of something like that?"

"Of course, I don't think he would force you," Molly said. "But he's an older man. He has experience that you don't." Hermione snorted.

"Trust me, Molly, I wasn't some blushing virgin when Remus and I got together." Molly reddened.

"Well, I, that, that is neither here nor there."

"I appreciate your concern, but our relationship is really none of your business," Hermione said, trying to rein in her temper.

"Hermione, I'm simply trying to look out for you," Molly said. "You know I've always thought of you like a daughter and given your own mother isn't here, I-"

"My parents have met Remus," Hermione said interrupting. Molly looked a bit surprised.

"They had a bit of an issue with the age difference at first, but they've gotten to know Remus and they like him very much," Hermione continued. "And before you ask, yes, they know he is a werewolf. That was a bit harder to explain, I'll admit, but they see how happy we are. That's all they want for me. They also know about Teddy. They've actually invited us to come to Australia for a visit. My mum was sure to ask Remus to bring Teddy with us." Molly didn't reply.

"Now, if you'll excuse me, I'd like to get back to the party." Hermione spun around and made her way back to Remus. He was looking at her in concern and she had to pull in a few deep breaths so as not to succumb to the angry tears she knew were hovering behind her eyelids. She plastered a smile on her face and took Remus' hand as soon as she reached him.

"Hermione," Arthur said. "I'm sorry about Molly. She…worries."

"It's all right, Arthur," Hermione said. He gave her an awkward smile.

"I wish you both the best," he said.

"Thank you," Remus replied. Molly reached the group.

"Hermione, I-" she began, but Arthur interrupted her.

"I think it's time we went home, Molly."

"Arthur, I just wanted to say-"

"Now, Molly," he said, his tone brokering no argument. It was one of the few times Hermione had seen Arthur be anything but his usual jovial, carefree self. Molly huffed and scowled at her husband, but she said good-bye to everyone all the same and followed Arthur to the Floo.

"Well, now that the entertainment is over, I guess I'll be going too," George said. Hermione shook her head and Ginny rolled her eyes. George shook Remus' hand and then gave Hermione a hug.

"Don't worry about Mum. She'll get over herself," he said in her ear.

"Thanks, George," Hermione said with a smile when he released her.

"Bye, then." He strode to the back of the garden and Disapparated. Andromeda stepped in front of Remus and Hermione. She cupped Hermione's face in her hands.

"Do not worry about what anyone else thinks," she said. "If you are happy, that is all that matters." Hermione felt her eyes fill. Andromeda certainly had experience when it came to those close to her being disappointed in her choices. The woman had lost her entire family to be with the man she loved. At least Hermione and Remus had people in their corner.

"Thank you," Hermione managed to choke out. Andromeda drew her into her arms.

"Everything will work out the way it is meant to," Andromeda said quietly. Hermione nodded, then wiped at her face when Andromeda released her. The older woman rose up to kiss Remus on the cheek and hug him as well.

"I had better start cleaning up," she said.

"I'll help," Ginny offered, quickly hugging both Hermione and Remus before following Andromeda into the house. Harry took Hermione's hand.

"Ron will calm down and Arthur will talk to Molly," he assured her.

"It's okay, Harry," Hermione replied. "I, we didn't expect that everyone was going to be as accepting as you and Ginny and Andromeda." She shrugged. Harry wrapped his arms around her.

"You know I love you, right?"

"I know," she said with a smile. Harry glanced at Remus.

"I'm going to go see if Andromeda needs more help." When Harry had gone, Remus drew Hermione into his arms. She sighed and wrapped her arms around his waist.

"All right?" he asked. She nodded against his chest.

"Just tired," she said.

"It has been quite the week," he agreed. They stood there in silence for a few minutes, simply taking comfort from one another. Finally, Hermione looked around the garden and then pulled away from him.

"We should probably clean up out here," she said.

"Probably." But he made no move to begin. Instead, he pulled her back towards him, then leaned down and kissed her. Hermione sighed into his mouth and allowed herself to relax into him. It wasn't until a throat cleared behind them that either of them thought to stop.

"Sorry," Ginny said with a grin as they pulled apart. "I thought the two of you could use some help out here, but I see you've got it well in hand." She waggled her eyebrows. Remus snorted as Hermione rolled her eyes. Ginny waved her wand and gathered all the cake plates, directing them back into the house as she followed. "Carry on."

Hermione looked up at Remus once Ginny had gone. He chuckled and then kissed her quickly before taking out his own wand and beginning to gather up the streamers and ribbons. Hermione did the same with the balloons, deflating all but one for Teddy to play with when he got up from his nap.

When the garden was finally set to rights, they went inside. Harry, Ginny and Andromeda had finished in the kitchen and Harry was carrying the rest of Teddy's gifts into the living room.

"I guess we'll be off," Ginny said.

"Thank you for coming," Remus said, then looked at Harry. "Even though you spoil Teddy horribly."

"Godfather's prerogative, isn't it?" Harry asked with a smirk. Remus just shook his head. Good-byes were said, and Ginny and Harry went through the Floo a few minutes later.

"I'm going to go upstairs and rest for a bit," Andromeda said.

"Thank you for all your work on the party," Remus said.

"Of course," Andromeda replied, kissing his cheek as she left the room. Remus looked at Hermione who took his hand and led him to the couch.

"Can we just sit here?" she asked.

"Whatever you want, love." He sat down on the couch and Hermione snuggled into his side. He kissed the top of her head and they sat in companionable silence, wrapped in each other's embrace.