Set during the events of Deathly Hallows, after Tonks and Lupin reconcile during her pregnancy. I don't own any of the characters, the setting, or anything else from the books or films; all rights remain with J.K. Rowling.

The Burrow, the cozy residence of the Weasley family, is full of excitement. It's Christmastime and the inhabitants are celebrating a recent reunification: Nymphadora and Remus Lupin have just gotten back together upon Lupin's return. The Weasley family is on hand to celebrate the relationship and the season, despite the threat of war in the Wizarding World.

"I'm so happy he came back for you," Ginny Weasley says to Nymphadora, who prefers to be called Tonks, her maiden name.

"Thanks," Tonks replies, a hand on her swollen belly, "We're not perfect yet, but it's certainly a start."

"We should throw you a baby shower!" Fleur adds, joining the conversation, "I bet you two could use some things for Teddy."

"I don't know how Remus would react to that; you know he doesn't like attention," says Tonks with a smile. As if on cue, Remus comes up behind her with a drink in his hand.
"How are you feeling, Dora?" he asks, downing his drink as the other women walk away.

"I feel blissful," Tonks says, "but I do wish Teddy would stop kicking me. I think he wants to come out and join the festivities!" She laughs as Lupin smiles uncomfortably. "How are you feeling, Remus? Is it too stuffy in here?"

"As a matter of fact, I was hoping you would accompany me on a walk. We can slip away for a few."

"Of course, dear," Tonks says as she raises herself up out of the chair, "Let me just grab my boots and I'll be right out."

Satisfied, Remus starts to walk toward the door when Molly Weasley catches him by the elbow.

"Remus, you will NOT let poor Tonks get ready alone. Go see what she needs you to do," Molly demands.

Perplexed, Remus asks, "What could she possibly need from me?"

"Tonks can barely bend! She's carrying your child, in case you've forgotten, and little Teddy is nearly full term. She can't even tie her boots alone. You will help." Molly demands.

"Yes ma'am," Remus says, nearly saluting but thinking better of it.

Molly cracks a smile. "You're a good man, Remus. But don't think you're off the hook with me yet! I love Tonks like one of my own. You hurt her. For now, though, go help your wife." Molly releases Remus' elbow.

Remus nods before heading for the entranceway.

"The snow looks lovely, doesn't it, Remus?" Tonks says, shaking snow from her evergreen hair as she walks next to him. "And the sunset out here?"

"It certainly does. I didn't mean to tear you away from the girls, but-"

"The atmosphere was suffocating me, too, it's okay." She smiles reassuringly into his eyes.

They find a bench in the park; he brushes several inches of snow off and helps Tonks sit before seating himself next to her.

"Dora…" Remus starts, searching her eyes, "I'm so sorry I haven't been here. I made a terrible mistake and I deeply regret the pain I've put you through. I don't know the first thing about pregnancy, as Molly reminded me earlier-" Tonks laughs "-but I truly want to learn and be there for you now. Can you possibly forgive me?"

Tonks takes his mittened hand in hers. "Of course, you bloody idiot, I forgave you long ago. I won't say it hasn't been hard, but I love you. I always have and I always will. Nothing you do or say will change that, for better or for worse."

Relieved, Remus smiles. "I love you too. And Teddy as well."

"Not even leaving me by myself for months," Tonks adds, her eyes sparking as her hair changes to a mischievous red.

Remus falters. "I'm so sor-" Tonks cuts him off with a quick kiss. "Oh." he blushes.
"Now stop your self-loathing and kiss me again."