Scorpius Malfoy 4 November 2017

"Come on. I mean you're taking forever. Who the hell are you trying to impress?"

How do I tell him, it's his cousin?

"You have to get out of the bloody bathroom some time" Al Potter complained from the other side of the bathroom door. "Mum didn't take as long as you."

'She's got no one to impress' crosses my mind as I looks in the mirror once again. I'm wearing a tuxedo - something I really don't wear - with a green pocket square. Over it is my black formal cloak emblazoned with the Malfoy family crest. It's already November and the stores have begun to decorate for the holidays, but I don't want to look too much like a Christmas card standing next to Rose. I had heard her talking up her dress for days to all our classmates that would listen. And I listened. I knew her dress was red, strapless, something they picked up on the 'girls day' with aunt Pansy, mum, Miss Trini, and Al's mum - Ginny Potter. I knew it was short, and fun, and she wanted to dance in it. I plan on giving her every opportunity to do so.

"Mate, come on. This is getting old. Hell I'm getting old. Crap! James is done. I'm using that bathroom." My Slytherin dorm mate could be heard running down the hall and slamming the other door shut.

Today, no one seemed to be where they were supposed to be. Mum and Rose are at a nearby hotel. My Mother was too sick to come, so she remained at the Manor. Dad was at 'the Flat' as it is now called.

Hugo, James, Teddy, Al, Lily, and I are all here trying to find a bathroom to get ready in since about noon when I laid claim to this one. Al's been doing everything possible and imaginable to get me out of this bathroom but there is no use. He even contacted my Uncles Blaise and Theo who ended giving me a pep talk about girls.

I shoved them off when they tried to give me 'the talk'. I'm eleven, I have youtube and the internet, I already know these things.

They did try and find out who she was. The only thing they got out of me is that she is coming tonight. Somehow they both just looked at each other, in a silent conversation. When Uncle Theo finally broke, "can't be," as he looked at me. "Our little Scorp is his father's son," as he patted my shoulder.

"I'm going to tell your aunt Pansy. She's going to love this."

"I see a new betting pool in the future. When he asks her out. When he gets punched by her. When she finally gives in. When the family gangs up on him… Mate we can make some money on this."

"Theo, this is Scorp. Let's not put any undue pressure on him." The two of them leaned into each other to 'whisper', "I give him third year. He is way ahead of Draco."

"Sucker punch about spring." Blaise nods in approval as my two 'uncles' both give my jovial hugs and well wishes before going to get ready at their own - well wherever they are getting ready.

Part of me wants to just stay in here, or in a bathroom hiding at the Museum of London, where the party is tonight. I can't believe mum convinced dad to have it there. I've only been a couple times, when I was much younger - like 3 or 4. Mother didn't approve, because there was all the influence that magic held missing from the dioramas. Dad thought it was fun, and he said he learned a lot of the Muggle history in the process. I just remember trying to climb on the neanderthal display - or as dad called it 'Uncle Marcus's 3D family picture'. Usually all big parties like this are held at the flat if Muggles are involved, at the Manor if not, or at Malfoy Industries - where the Christmas party will be this year. Never have we had a party like this, nor have we had a location like this. I am actually excited to see everything and maybe take a stroll with Rose.

And don't get me started on the 'she's your sister thing' or the 'you're a Slytherin and she's a Gryffindor thing'. I have squashed both mentally. She's my step-sister and yes we live in the same house during the holidays, it isn't weird like that. Yes I am a Slytherin like my father before me, as she is a Gryffindor like her mum. I see it working out for our parents. It is really working out for them from our correspondence. And there isn't the house animosity there used to be. And Al - Albus Potter - is also a Slytherin. There is nothing wrong with us according to the Gryffindors now, except when it comes to quidditch.

"Scorpius dear," I hear Mrs Potter call out, "Albus, Hugo, James, Ted, Lily we're leaving in 30 minutes. If you aren't dressed by then we'll drag you along as is."

I wonder if she would hate me if I asked to call her 'aunt Ginny'? She's the aunt to my step-siblings, and the mum to my best friend, and my mum's best friend. I'll ask her later. I don't think dad is ready for me to call Mr Potter 'uncle Harry' just yet. The history between dad and Mr Potter, well, I guess it was bumpy and still is. Something about Rio that the two of them don't talk about, but dad gets a grumpy face and Mr Potter starts rubbing his eyes violently and mum just laughs.

I finally decide that it isn't getting any better and no amount of pep talks will make my heart rate slow down or my nerves calm. A couple more deep breaths…

"Scorpius, you look just like your father did at the Yule Ball when we were kids. You're so handsome."

"Thank you Mrs Potter." I say shakily.

"Please call me Ginny dear." She gives me one of those 'mum smiles'. Not the smiles I get from my Mother, but the kind that I get from mum.

"I was going to ask, since we are all so close, can I call you 'Aunt Ginny'? I mean I don't really have many aunts and uncles - except for Aunt Daphne but I don't really hear from her except at Christmas and my birthday."

She gave me a huge hug. When she pulled back her face was bright as the sun. "Dear, I would LOVE that. And I know your mum would too. Thank you. It is such an honor."

I know I'm blushing. I feel the heat in my cheeks as I look down.

Ginny Potter, well she's one of those stunning witches that adorn the history books. Here she is in front of me saying it is an honor for her to be called my aunt.

Mr Potter, James, Teddy, Hugo and Lily come downstairs, while Aunt Ginny is still beaming.

"Darling you look stunning." Mr Potter compliments his wife, but his eyes are like my dad's looking at my mum - hungry and full of pride. "As much as it kills me to say it, green is your color."

I have to look away before it gets too uncomfortable. And I'm not the only one I guess, because James and Teddy are looking slightly sick too.

"BRO!" James calls out, "If we have to deal with mum and dad snogging, you'd better get down here too."

"Fine. If it weren't for Scorp hogging the bathroom, I'd be done long ago." He's going to hold this over my head for months, I know already. Especially every morning while we fight for the loo at school.

I did the mistake of raising my eyes, only to see Mr Potter's one hand on his wife's arse and the fingers of his other going down her deep V neck. Yeah that's an image I need to obliviate immediately.

James coughs. Followed by Teddy. And James coughs louder. Teddy finally gives in. "Dad you have a room upstairs, use it. Us kids don't need to see this."

Teddy is not a kid anymore, but I know he speaks for Lily, Al, Hugo, James and I.

James goes over to the portkey - this time it's some old bottle of expensive champagne. I think it was from the celebration held at our house a few months ago. "Ted, you're of age. Everyone grab on, let's leave mum and dad. They can apparate there themselves and we won't be blinded."

Nodding we all agree and grab hold of the bottle as Teddy activates it, landing us in the lobby of the museum.

I notice Lily's eyes grow huge as she takes in everything around her. The entry was transformed to a lovely check in and security section.

My Uncle Theo greets all of us, "And where, praytell, are your parents? You are not coming unchaperoned?"

"Uncle Theo, wasn't that your job tonight?" I snarkily retort.

"No young Malfoy, that is not my job tonight. Tonight I have the honor of being my girlfriend's date." I see Miss Trini step up to him giving him a peck on the cheek. She has her hair pulled back and her makeup is subtle, but she looks stunning in a royal blue gown, and I see the pride in Uncle Theo's eyes. "So again, where are the adults?"

"Snogging." James says disgusted. "So please don't. We left to get away from it."

"Fine, but until your parents do come," he turns and yells "FLINT! Here now!" It isn't Marcus Flint this time, but his older brother Nathan. "Your job is to keep an eye on this lot until their parents show. Scorp, your dad is already inside, so you can join him there. Hugo, your mum and sister haven't come yet, so I would suggest hanging out with this lot."

"Thanks Uncle Theo," as I smirk and go 'look for my dad.'

Mum did a great job planning this with Grandmother, and aunts Pansy and Ginny. The entry is lit up in neon blues and pinks, just enough so that you can see the displays and yet it had a club-like feel also. I see dad, he looks nervous, but he's working the room like he always does. The debate in my head between ducking out to wander around and take in the history or go up to dad and be stuck by his side most of the night - well the first wins hands down. I'm a Malfoy and this will be my job soon enough, right now I don't want to rush it. Once the holiday party season begins, then I will have to pull out my charm and grace.

I manage to duck away from my aunt Pansy and Uncle Blaise, and I think I am in the clear. For a while at least. I was admiring a gold and garnet brooch that dated to the 600s when I felt an arm around me. "Hello Grandmother. I didn't know if you were coming today."

"Ah my sweet Scorpius, I wouldn't miss this. Your father, in his full glory. I've never seen him happier. One day, I would love to see you as happy as him. As in love as him."

"Grandmother, you and uncles Theo and Blaise? Are you all ganging up on me? Sheesh."

"That is no way to talk to your Grandmother Scorpius Malfoy. You know better."

"I apologize." My eyes haven't left the brooch yet. It is beautiful. Simply beautiful.

"Who are you picturing that brooch on, my sweet boy?"

"Grandmother." I try and sound reprimanding, but it is my Gran. I can't. She knows me too well.

"Well?"

"She'll be here tonight."

"Did you invite her as a plus one? Because if you did and did not escort her in…"

I cut her short, "no grandmother, she isn't my plus one. She - well - she's just coming."

"Weasley or Zabini?"

"EWWW. Zabini? No. Just no."

"Weasley. There are close to a dozen your age… But I think I know." She places a peck on my head, and smooths out my hair. "Your father has a thing for the 'messy hair' look. Has for years now. I think it looks sloppy. Now off with you. We never had this talk, okay." She gives me one last squeeze, but I think she's up to something. Knowing my Gran, she usually is.

"Trust me Grandmother, we didn't." I am still cringing about the thought of me liking a Zabini girl. Nope. Not happening.

I keep wandering around the upper galleries, what something on Medieval times and no reference to Merlin? How arcane.

I slip away from my dad, who is still meeting guests by the Rotunda Gallery and gardens. Well I thought I slipped away until I feel his hand pull me backwards.

"Where have you been hiding?"

"I've been looking around. So much has changed since we were last here."

"You were five when we were here last. Of course things have changed in six years," he smiles. "Now your Grandmother said you were looking at some ancient jewelry."

I blush, "the garnet and gold brooch. I just can't believe the work that was done without…"

"I know. This shows some real talent, unless you take into affect that some of them may have been…"

"Got it dad. But the Medieval display? What were they thinking?"

"Percy Weasley, it is good to see you again." Dad goes back to greeting the guests and family.

"Draco, thank you for the invitation. Most of the family was surprised to be invited."

"Why if I may ask? You're family. You're always welcome to come to any of the Malfoy Industry events. But since this one is so pivotal, we couldn't not invite all of you."

"It's just mum and dad and I, we're not always on the best of terms."

"My wife wanted all of you here. No questions. And I know better than to question my wife."

With that I chuckle. Their debate on the location of this event was hard enough to watch. But ultimately, dad gave in. I see him giving in a lot more with mum than he ever did with mother.

"Percy enjoy the night, the whole museum is to wander. Scorpius already was intrigued with the Medieval exhibit. You may want to check it out," he winks at me as I chuckle. "The actual dinner and everything is downstairs, we are having dancing up in the gardens. So have a great time."

"Thank you again Draco. I know we will," as he looks to his wife and daughters and leads them around to the displays.

"Dad, am I stuck here or am I free to look around some more?"

"She's not here yet." He looks at me out of the corner of his eye. "Your uncles told me about earlier."

"So I'm stuck here is what you're saying."

"At least until our ladies arrive. Then both of us are being shooed off. And you are the Malfoy heir. This will be your job one day."

"Not for a very long time dad. Or at least it better not be for a long time. I want to at least finish school first."

"Noted, and I don't plan on retiring for a long time either. Although Uncle Blaise might have a nervous breakdown soon and either move into the office or we'll see him running through the streets of London arse naked. You're Aunt Pans is driving him nuts today." He nods over to my aunt and uncle that are in a heated discussion. It has something to do with Uncle Blaise's hands being somewhere they shouldn't have been - luckily where they shouldn't be on her. "I think we're not getting anymore Zabinis anytime soon. Thank goodness."

"They're so close to having their own quidditch team though." I feign being upset. "Dad, can I get some hors d'oeuvres? Or something for you? The food smells really good."

"Go get something, and get me one of everything too. I need something to absorb the two glasses of champagne I've had already."

"Thanks." He probably knows I'm going to wander around for another 20 or so minutes before getting him a plate and me one. I just want to take this time to duck out for a bit.

There is music coming from the Terrace Gallery where I see the hors d'oeuvres are being served. I go downstairs, and step off to see the room below, where dinner is served for the 'adults' including the immediate family - Rose, Hugo, and I. The Zabini family, Weasleys, and Potters are having dinner in one of the exhibit rooms I think I heard - the one with the Olympic torch I heard. I wish I could join them instead of 'taking my place as the Malfoy heir' with the adults.

I honestly enjoy one of the displays "City Now, City Future" that covers Muggle London. I was reading something closely that I didn't notice a large man behind me.

"This would interest your stepmother greatly," I am shocked at the deep voiced man behind me, dressed in a top hat and a vibrant purple-y grey tuxedo. "You might want to point this to her before the night is through."

"Thank you - um - sir."

"Kingsley. Kingsley Shacklebolt, young Scorpius. I know your father and stepmother well."

Oh shit, I didn't know it was the Minister of Magic. Dad will kill me. "I understand. And I agree, mum would love this. Especially how we can help them build a better city. It would also interest my dad. I think he was looking at acquiring this building," I point to an older building that the city designers want to replace with a new, modern designed one.

"I wouldn't put it past Draco. He did wonders in Rio. He is looking at doing the same in Los Angeles California. It might be nice to keep a few of his projects local, wouldn't you think."

"Absolutely sir. I know I would like him at home, and um mum would too."

"I am going to tell you something Scorpius, and this is between us. Your stepmother - you call her mum correct?" I nod. "She and I met years ago, during the war. I knew she was something special then and I saw something in your dad's eye. His love for her goes back to then, if not before. He was just blinded. It was only her that could open his eyes. And I kept hoping that it would take place. When I sent her on this tour to meet the other leaders, I never thought he would end up in the same city as she. It was the Fates smiling on them. It was their time. And honestly, I have never seen either of them happier." He patted my shoulder. "I just thought you should know. And young man, one day soon, I see a similar smiling on you. I hope I can be there when we celebrate that."

"Uh thank you, I think." I don't know what to say to that. He knew dad and mum back then? And believed they could be together? It overwhelms me slightly.

I head back upstairs and gather a plate for me and one for dad. His I make heavy with breads and other things that can absorb the alcohol. He may have only had two glasses of champagne, but on an empty stomach, even his tolerance isn't that good.

"Dad, eat," I instruct.

"Thanks, in thirty minutes I am going to introduce my wife. I don't know if I'm really ready."

"You've been ready. Since Rosie's birthday. I saw it on your face when she was standing next to you. You wanted to kiss her there, and tell the world. Dad you can do it."

"Son, I love you." He pulls me into a hug. "And get more of the mushroom caps. They're amazing."

"I think I ate about 12 already myself. I may be banned from them."

Dad goes back to greeting the guests and I want to look some more. If dad is introducing mum in 30 minutes - realistically it will be more like an hour - it will be about 45 minutes until Rose gets here. Back downstairs, where the dinner is being held I look around to see how dad is going to do the introduction. I notice there's a landing overlooking the room and I figure that is where mum will be.

I also overhear a couple - twins maybe - talking about this being the party of the year. Every other party, including the Minister's on New Year's Eve, is going to have to top this. Blah blah blah.

They honestly don't have any idea what happens when my Grandmother, mum, and Aunt Pansy get together, do they? And now add Aunt Ginny to the mix, everything will be perfect.

Speaking of Aunt Pansy, she and Uncle Blaise come by to 'check up on me'. Like I can bloody well get away with anything tonight? Do they realize I am now related to most of these people by either blood, marriage, or the fact that dad's known them for-ev-er and a day.

Pansy, I must admit looks stunning. No wonder Uncle Blaise's hands keep wandering. "Scorp sweetie, you know where you're to sit right? This is going to be an interesting night, sitting with the Potters, your family, and us. Oh Blaise, remind me to thank Scorpius's mum for the babysitter. She was a lifesaver."

"See dear, there are some perks. Now Scorp, remember what we said earlier. Everything will be fine. You look more nervous than your dad," he chortled.

"It's fine Uncle Blaise. I'm fine." I take a couple of deep breaths as Aunt Pansy leaves. Uncle Blaise hands me the remnants of his champagne, which is almost completely full, with a smile and a pat he follows his wife. I down the golden liquid like my life depended on it. It wasn't the best tasting thing I've ever drank, but it isn't goblin piss either.

Most of the women I notice are making an appearance on the landing above, before meeting their significant other at the foot of the stairs. There are photographers poised for each shot, mostly from Witch Weekly, saying who is wearing whom and determining the best dressed for the night. I know I haven't got a chance in hell to get even a mention in either that or the Daily Prophet, I'm still a first year Slytherin.

More and more cameras are going off as the witches are making their appearances.

I see Aunt Pansy formally introduced and I didn't really see how beautiful she was until now. And I see it in Uncle Blaise's face. He is in love with her. And as obnoxious as they can be together, she loves him.

I recognize a few members of the Board of Malfoy Industries and their wives. A couple of Weasleys are in attendance. My cousin Teddy is waiting for one of the Weasley girls - Victoire - with the biggest, goofiest grin on his face. They're in love. A Black and a Weasley.

My Grandmother is presented and walks down regally by herself. I never had a chance to meet my Grandfather, he has been in Azkaban since before I was born and because of that Grandmother has been reclusive from these events. I decide it is my place, as the heir, to greet her at the foot of the stairs and escort her to our family's table.

She looks at me with the loving smile I always get from her, the kindness in her eyes, with a hint of sadness to them as the flashes go off all around. "Scorpius my dear, there was no need for that."

"Yes there was Grandmother. You are my family and I love you."

She leans down and gives me a kiss on the cheek. Much more 'adult' than her previous kisses on the top of my head that I've had for years. "You're a young man now. Go get the young lady. Your lady. This old witch can handle herself" as we reached the table.

"Thank you Gran." I smirk at her because she hates when I call her Gran, especially in public.

There are many stunning outfits worn. Mr Potter is glowing as Aunt Ginny is presented to the party. I honestly don't know how she is keeping that top up, because the V is wide enough to have a bit of her breasts poking through and deep enough that it almost hits her belly button. Yeah, Mr Potter is - um - heated from seeing his wife. I hope for Al's sake that they put a muffling charm on their room tonight.

I patiently wait, standing behind my Grandmother, for the beautiful redheaded step-sister of mine.

There are so many oohhhs and ahhhs as the different women of substance walk down to their men. The Minister's wife looked elegant in a simple black and cream dress that accentuated her height and stature. When she met him at the foot of the stairs, he took her in his arms and kissed her passionately.

Rose Belladonna Weasley was finally introduced. Hugo got up to escort her, and I waved him off. Her dress was everything she described and more. She was beaming, happy, bouncy, and honestly probably the only kid happy to be here tonight. She follows the landing to the top of the stairs and I watch her come down looking around the whole room, smiling.

Her eyes finally met mine, after it feels like an eternity, and her smile changes. It went from a generic 'happy' smile, to one that made her hazel green eyes sparkle and her blush ever so slightly. I offer her my arm and every camera is poised at us flashing.

I hear the twins talk about the couple of the night, if not the couple of the century. Who would have expected the son of Draco Malfoy and the daughter of Ronald Weasley and Hermione Granger?

"You look amazing Rose," probably the only words I can get out of my mouth, and the truest.

She looks down, she must be embarrassed slightly, "Thank you Scorp."

I pull out her seat, and lean in to give her a kiss on the cheek as she sits.

Now it's dad's turn as he takes the microphone and stands on the landing.

"Good evening, Ladies and Gentlemen. If we haven't met yet, well why the hell are you here?" Dad gets a few laughs out of that. "I'm Draco Malfoy, CEO and Chair of Malfoy Industries. Tonight, you are here for a party, I know I am. But all you heard is it is an 'Announcement Party'. I've had emails asking if this is a new product division that we are launching - and I can announce there are some very exciting products on the way, but this isn't that. I've been asked if it is a new merger - no not at this time. New property acquisitions - we are currently in multiple talks for a new large set of acquisitions, but this isn't the time to announce that.
"No, this is a personal announcement. I have here friends, family, business associates, government officials, and I thank you all for coming. For those who have kept the secret, I am in your debt - and there are a lot more of you than I really expected ever to have. Luckily my COO, Blaise Zabini will be the one paying out on those debts." Another round of laughter as Uncle Blaise snorts out some champagne.
"A few months ago I felt like I was missing something in my life. It wasn't small, and if you had asked me beforehand if I knew - I couldn't honestly tell you. But one night, I was granted a second chance. I am a big believer in second chances. Many years ago I was granted a second chance and I took the greatest advantage of it. I built a business that I am very proud of, that I hope my son will be proud to inherit one day. I had a family. Yeah and Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy, we're talking after this. That little… whatever you want to call it." He gives me the dad stare down, and most of the adults are chuckling - except for my Uncles Theo and Blaise who are getting stared down by their significant others.
"But I was given a second chance at something most people only have one chance at - that being love. The biggest surprise is it was someone I had known for years growing up. Someone who drove me to my wit's end and back.
"But that someone needed me on night August 1st. We talked, I apologized and she forgave me, she cried, and we ended up doing something very unlike either of us. We got married.
"On August 1st I understood truly what it means to marry my best friend. And no I didn't marry Zabini. Just no." More laughing ensued as dad made a scrunched up face.
"She's brilliant, talented, lovely, caring. Hell she could find it in her heart to forgive a schmuck like me.
"Since then I have been on top of the world. Happier and more full than I knew was possible. I am so very pleased to finally, publicly, introduce my wife: Mrs Hermione Jean Malfoy."