Hello, my freaky darlings. This has been a long week. A very long week. But that is the nature of my job. May I just say that revenge is sometimes a dish best served cold and that I am not done with any of the Prewett Weasleys by a long shot. In some cases, I have to decide who I want to punish more. Enjoy this little thing I own in no such way that matters.
Chapter 58 Siblings
Nervous butterflies dancing in her stomach, Cressida stopped by the Falcon stadium during the team's lunch hour. Sloan had been pushing to meet her family. She met his family, several times, in fact. She promised she wasn't ashamed of him, but uneasy about her own. She made the mistake of mentioning the upcoming dinner that evening. He pointed out how it would be the best time to introduce him. Hence her presence and nerves. She stood next to the locker room waiting. Her brother exited, hair wet from his shower. "Marcus!" she called out.
"Hey, Cressida, what brings you here?"
"I have some questions for you. I thought I could take you to lunch."
"Sure, local cafe okay?"
"Lead the way," she smiled up at him. "When did you get so tall?"
"Um, 6th year was my last growth spurt." He waited until they had placed their order to bring up her questions. "Okay, Cress, what do you need?"
"I've been dating someone for some time now. It is getting serious, I think. I mean, I've met his family."
"That's great! Anyone, I know?"
"Sloan Travers, he was a Ravenclaw a year above me, so unlikely."
"So where do questions come in?" asked Marcus.
"He wants to meet my family. Tonight, at dinner. At your house."
"Oh, oh, Cress, um. Ordinarily, we could care less, the more the merrier. But Hermione and I are making an announcement tonight, a big one."
"You're having a baby!" she exclaimed loudly, drawing the attention of others. "Sorry."
"We are," he confirmed. "We want you to be godmother."
"Seriously? Why me?"
"I promised when we were younger. I know you didn't expect me to keep it, but I want to. Hermione agrees. We want you and Harry as godparents."
"I don't know what to say."
"Traditionally, people say yes," he teased.
She threw herself across the table to hug him, "Yes, yes, a thousand times, yes. Thank you for asking."
Marcus hated that his sister would have to disappoint her boyfriend," Say, let's see if Hermione, Esme, Percy, and Malcolm want to get dinner tomorrow?"
"Sloan could meet part of my family," she grinned.
"Exactly. I'll ask Hermione and Esme, you ask Malcolm and Sloan. I'll see you this evening."
Marcus explained asking Cressida after she figured out the surprise. "How about dinner with her new boyfriend and my siblings tomorrow?"
"That sounds fine. Harry and the twins should be here about fifteen minutes early so we can ask him."
"Do you think he'll stammer or simply stare?" asked Marcus.
"Stammer," she bet.
He did both causing Meredith to laugh and clap his cheeks. "Of course, I'm honored." He looked at his children and then up at Hermione. "Holy shite, I'm a daddy and you're going to be a mum!"
"More importantly, Ron isn't the father," she laughed.
"I agree," Marcus hugged her from behind, engulfing her in his arms. "He can't have you, you're all mine."
Both families gathered around the table. Voldemort gestured for Marcus to take his spot at the head of the table, claiming the foot for himself. Draco chuckled at the three high chairs among the chairs. "The kiddie seating is taking over."
Hermione shrugged, "It'll look less obvious once there's another to make it an even number."
"Teddy could be in a regular chair by then," he countered.
"I doubt."
Draco shook his head, thinking she was playing it up just to debate. "He's a growing boy."
"By October booster chair yes, regular chair, no," she bantered back.
"Why pick October?" Draco asked looking around the table, confused. His mother and Uncle Rodolphus grinned widely. Aunt Bellatrix glowered at Marcus.
"Because I'm due in October," Hermione said calmly. The room erupted into cheers. Not to be excluded Meredith clapped her hands, while the boys banged on the table.
Esme clapped her hands, "He or she will be six months old at the wedding."
"How are you feeling?" asked Rodolphus.
"Fine, the occasional upset stomach, but it passes quickly."
"Did your recent adventures with Weasley have any long lasting effects?" questioned Voldemort.
"No, everyone is fine," she assured her family.
"Only one in there?" Draco asked looking at the Potters.
Hermione rolled her eyes, "As far as I know," she replied. "My family doesn't have a history of multiples. Does yours?" she addressed Marcus.
"Not in recent memory," Merrick assured her.
She sighed, "That's reassuring."
"Will you be learning the gender when possible?" asked Ted.
Hermione looked at Marcus, "We hadn't discussed it. Is there a preference either way?"
"When one needs to focus on a male heir it can be a relief to know if one has succeeded or not. Marcus is a second son and Hermione is proof the Lestranges don't care," Ava sniffed. She looked at Rodolphus, "What are you going to do about carrying on the family name?"
Rodolphus glanced at his brother then shrugged, "Should Hermione have a son interested in changing his name we might do that. Or Rab and Penny can have that headache."
"No pressure," laughed Penny. Rabastan patted her hand, "I'm not too worried."
As Varl served dessert, Malcolm spoke up, "Cressida, do you object to my inviting a date tomorrow?"
"Certainly not, the more the merrier, right?" she answered.
At the same time, Merrick asked, "What's tomorrow?"
His eldest children froze like deer in a spotlight. Their youngest brother saved them, "Our first official sibling dinner, dates optional. I'm guessing Cress found one."
"Exactly," Malcolm jumped in. "I don't want to be the only one going stag."
Narcissa beamed at them, "How delightfully wonderful of you. How I wish Draco had a sibling."
"He can have Harry and me," offered Hermione.
"How much trouble would I be in if I said I was good?"
"I don't know about Aunt Narcissa, but I would be crushed," Hermione teased.
"Devastated," Narcissa remarked drolly. The table laughed.
Still, on magical bedrest, Hermione carried several boxes down the stairs, peering around them. "Hermione!" Rodolphus rushed forward to relieve her of her burden. "Should you be carrying all that?"
"They aren't heavy, just awkward. What brings you by?"
At the bottom of the stairs, he placed the boxes on the floor. "Lucius wants you to come by the Manor today. Bee overheard them discussing your pregnancy and insisted he release her so she can be gifted to you as a nanny elf."
"Only if that's what she wants."
"Have you met her? She bit Draco when he reminded her you have Lestrange house elves."
Hermione giggled, "How funny."
After a brief visit with her father, she went to Malfoy Manor to collect her new house elf and see Voldemort for their weekly meeting. "Shouldn't you be resting? Forming a baby takes a great amount of energy from what I'm told."
"I'm fine, thank you. I wanted to go over some things I found in the journal."
"We can do that later, the journal waited for hundreds of years, it can wait for a few months," he assured her. "You should go take a nap." He all but shoved her through the door. She glared at him, "See already grumpy because you need rest."
"I need something," she muttered.
Dressing for dinner out, Hermione choose a loose flowing dress that hid her baby bump nicely. She paired it with fun high heels. She also wanted to avoid being towered over by Flint giants. When he saw her, Marcus opened his mouth the comment and promptly closed it when he saw her face. "I am pregnant, barely pregnant, not incapacitated. I can carry what I want, go where I want, and wear what I want. I will not be chained to the bed and hovered over," she hissed.
"Noted. You look radiant," he kissed her forehead.
"Thank you? Ready?"
"I am," he offered his arm. Together they flooed to Diagon Alley. From there they walked down to a small restaurant offering finer dining than the Leaky Cauldron. As people began whispering, Hermione stepped closer to Marcus. "You don't go out in the Wizard World much do you?"
"Only when I can't avoid it," she replied. "I hate the stares and gossip. People need lives."
"They're staring because you're gorgeous," he smiled.
"Nope, because you're so handsome."
"Let's agree to disagree," he held open the door for her. "My lady."
"My thanks, good sir."
The hostess approached them, straightening her shirt and smoothing her hair, "Good evening, Mr. Flint," she purred, "table for two?"
Hermione raised an eyebrow. "Come here often, Romero?"
"No, ma'am," he turned to the hostess, "table for eight unless one of my siblings got here first?"
A voice behind them caused them to turn, "No, I think we're first," Malcolm clapped his younger brother on the shoulder.
"So, table for eight, please," he told the hostess. He turned back to Malcolm and his date.
The leggy blonde smiled at them. "It is so nice to meet you. I have to admit I never connected Malcolm's last name with Marcus Flint the quidditch player."
"To be fair I didn't really mention my married brother in our conversations."
"And why would you?" Esme asked walking up, "He's our least interesting sibling."
Malcolm laughed, "Implying you are?"
"I am," she preened. Percy wrapped his arm around her waist.
"Everyone, this is Louise Achterberg. She works in the Belgium ambassador's office. Louise, you recognize my brother, Marcus. This is his wife, Hermione. And my sister Esme and her fiance, Percy Weasley."
"Nice to meet you."
"Likewise."
Cressida and Sloan arrived as they were being seated. "Looks like everyone is here." She introduced him to the table, letting them all introduce themselves. The waiter descended swiftly, informing them of the specials and taking orders.
"No wine for you, Hermione?" asked Louise.
"Not the next while, no," Hermione answered with a smile. The blonde's eyes widened questioningly. Hermione nodded, causing the blonde's smile to widen. "My lips are sealed."
"Thank you. I want to keep it to just people I know for as long as possible."
"I understand," she assured her.
Percy turned to Sloan, "You look familiar, do you work at the Ministry?"
The dark haired man nodded, "I do, in magical transportation. You were in Regulations before your new position, right?"
"Correct," Percy grinned.
"Do you enjoy it?" asked Esme politely.
"We occasionally get an interesting case." He shrugged, "Someone has to do it, the job pays well and I have a fair chance for promotions."
"You are content," Hermione stated. Sloan nodded. "That counts for a lot these days." She looked at Louise, "Do you enjoy working for the ambassador?"
"Very much. Madame Peeters is brilliant. And I enjoy living in Britain." She paused, "Excuse my impertinence, Madame Flint, but do you work outside the home?"
Percy and Marcus both chuckled. Hermione swatted her husband. "Yes and no. I have numerous research ventures going. But I am independently wealthy so I work for myself, at home. And yes, I do enjoy making my own hours." They laughed at her little joke.
"Anything published, yet?" inquired Sloan.
"The Muggle Initiative is based on some of it."
Louise perked up, "The idea that muggleborns are descended from squibs?"
"Yes, we've yet to find one that isn't. And the adoption gives them a sponsor, mentors, and support. Headmaster Snape told me at least one student has been able to leave an abusive situation."
"Oh, how lovely," Cressida exclaimed.
Changing the subject, Esme turned to Hermione, "I have the best news. I was telling Fleur about wanting to get married on a beach. She and Bill offered Shell Cottage."
"That's wonderful," enthused Hermione.
"And why we're waiting until next summer? Fleur wants to plant new flower beds. And Percy needs to focus on his new job. That and weddings are expensive."
"She's neglecting to mention we also have no idea where we'll live after we marry," added Percy.
"Because that is the least of my concerns. All that matters is that we are together," she told him primly.
Percy addressed Hermione, "Charlie's moving back to England. He's transferring to manage the Welsh Reserve. Apparently, his fiance is coming with him."
"I bet your mother loves that," she replied.
"No idea, I haven't seen her since she was in the hospital. We're all done with all three of them unless that changed."
"Oh," was all Hermione could think to say.
"Oh, indeed," said Percy grimly. "But none of that tonight."
"How is your sister doing?" asked Cressida innocently.
"As well as can be expected under the circumstances. She keeps her own counsel most of the time."
Hermione scoffed, "She always has."
"Very true."
The evening ended on a positive note. "We need to keep doing this," declared Cressida.
"Yes," agreed Esme, "though we don't always need to go out, either. We could take turns hosting,"
"Just want Varl's cranberry and orange cake again," teased Percy.
"I'm sorry, did you have a point?" she laughed.
"Regardless of Esme's ulterior motives, I like the idea," Hermione said. The group went their separate ways after agreeing to meet in April at Hermione and Marcus's house.
The last group needing to be informed of the impending arrival were their friends. Fred and George immediately opened a gender betting pool and one about the delivery date. "You can't even tell," declared Daphne, "you look great."
"You're glowing," grinned Luna. She petted Sir Hiss.
"Do you want a boy or a girl?" asked Adrian.
"Yes," Hermione responded. "I want a healthy baby." She focused on Sir Hiss, who had draped himself over her shoulders.
"How can I prepare for my godchild without knowing the gender?"
"Easily, this baby's godparents will be Harry and Cressida," she shot back.
Adrian staggered back clutching his chest, "You wound me."
"Don't be such a drama llama. You can godfather the next one." Hermione told him.
"So wounded," he fake gasped.
"It was Marcus's idea."
Adrian gave a cry of indignation, "Traitor. Twist the knife a little more."
"We're not kicking out of the baby's life. You'll still be Uncle Adrian."
He stopped his antics instantly, "That's true."
Marcus swatted the back of his head, "Behave."
"I am," protested Adrian
"Behave better," he frowned. "So, how sure are you there is only one in there?" One look at her face had him running for the door, "I'm kidding."
Kingsley Shaklebolt visited her the next morning, "Hello, Mrs. Flint."
"I've been corrupting you from the shiny so-called light side, call me Hermione."
"Only if you call me Kingsley," he answered.
"I can do that. Are you hungry? Thirsty? You know what, Varl's going to serve you anyway, come on."
He laughed and followed her into the dining room. Accepting a glass of apple juice he complimented the finger foods offered. "I'm sure you were informed Molly Weasley declined to press charges."
"To save herself, I'm sure. But appreciated."
"Yes, she's quite put out Tonks and I couldn't get her charges dropped while allowing her to try to press them against you. For someone who used to decry the Ministry's corruption when it benefited others, she sure does want it to help her and her spawn."
"Very true. So what brings you by this morning?"
"Since Teddy was a victim Tonks has to recuse herself. And while you went over everything with Collins that day, the prosecution would like to meet with you this afternoon to review the charges. They apologize for the short notice, which is why they sent me in person instead of a letter. The defense is making noises about needing to charge Ron or release him. They want to ensure they have all possible charges."
"When and where?" she replied.
"Ministry Legal Offices, 6th floor, uh, around 2 o'clock."
"That should work for me."
Moments, after she entered the Ministry Yaxley, appeared, "What brings you here, today, Mummy?" He fell in step with her. "Congratulations, by the way."
"Thank you. I'm here to meet with the ministry legal department to go over the Ron incident."
"I'll escort you up," he smiled.
If Gavin Robards or Mitchell Barnes found Yaxley's presence a surprise neither showed it. Both greeted Hermione and her companion politely. "I leave you in their competent hands, little witch."
Barnes went over the incidents step by step. "All said and done we have assault, battery, threatening the well being a magical child on two counts, two counts of child endangerment, kidnapping, and false imprisonment. Given his statements, we're adding attempted murder and attempting to tamper with house succession."
"Have you considered charges since James is Harry's heir to House Potter?"
Barnes nodded. "Would it be fair to say that you feel in danger if he was to be released on his own recognizance?"
"As I recently discovered I am pregnant I am terrified of what would happen to myself and my unborn child. And I am not the only family member who is prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure our safety. I would also request you keep this knowledge to yourself for the time being."
Robards swallowed hard and nodded, "Duly noted, Mrs. Flint."
Barnes frowned, "We are pushing back the trial as long as we can. Mr. Weasley has petitioned for divorce and to disown his youngest two children. Those cases are at the end of the month. Out of respect for out him, we are waiting until Ronald will not be dragging his name through the mud."
"That is admirable of you. I understand and support this. I am friends with some of his brothers. And while they might choose to support him, they do not deserve to be painted with the same brush if they wish to distance themselves."
"I appreciate your support, ma'am," Barnes told her.
"I hate that he felt it came to this, but that is none of my business."
"We will notify you of the court dates. And will ask the judge to deny the request for bail."
-O-
Molly stared at the barrister in horror, "They denied Ron bail?"
"Some of his statements regarding Mrs. Flint and her children are very concerning."
"She doesn't have children," snapped Molly.
"Not yet. Some of his statements are very criminal. Think grounds for a blood feud." Molly's mouth shut. "They did agree to hold him at the ministry and not Azkaban. And he can have visitors."
"When can I see him?"
He consulted his notes, "Tomorrow, 1 pm."
"Can I bring him anything?"
"I have a list for you," Gregory Erend rubbed his forehead to ease the tension headache forming."
Molly thought that she experienced the most humiliating part of all of this, only to learn how very wrong she was. To visit her youngest son the aurors thoroughly searched her and the small basket of comforts they allowed her to bring. They brusquely escorted her to a stone room with a metal table surrounded by two metal chairs. Ron sat at the table, his hands cuffed to short chains attached to it. "Mum, you came," he breathed.
"Of course I did, darling." She sat across from him. "I brought you some food. You have to eat it in here, but it should help keep you from wasting away too badly."
"When am I getting out of here? And why hasn't someone gotten rid of the charges?" he whined. "Like Dad covered up way worse for Moody and Dumbledore."
"Dumbledore is gone, sweetie, and with him our political clout. But that doesn't mean we're going to take this lying down."
"I hope so. I shouldn't have to go to prison for disciplining my mudblood. Why aren't Kingsley and Tonks doing anything?"
"Tonks was removed for being too close, and Kings pointed out he can't blow his cover."
"Or so they claim," he muttered bitterly, "they could if they wanted to."
"I'm sure they will be there when we needed them," Molly comforted him. "We survived worse, we'll weather this storm."
Ron quickly devoured the feast she brought. "Why isn't Dad here?"
"Your father has made certain choices recently that prevent him from visiting to show his support, but he loves you."
"Oh, okay."
Molly gave him a warm smile, "Keep your head up, this will all be over soon."
"I know, Mum. We'll win the war and everything will be as it should," he returned her smile.
"But until then I need you to be on your best behavior and stop saying negative things about Hermione. You have to show some remorse about attacking her, Teddy, and James Potter."
"I'll try, Mum. I'll focus on the boys, maybe."
"Thank you, Ronniekins." If he kept his mouth shut, the long wait for the trial could come in handy.