CH 64: We Do! No Fooling!

Sunday morning Ron woke up to Hugo leaping onto his bed to wake him up. "Wake up, Ron! You're getting married today!"

Ron smiled, glancing to the empty side of the bed where Hermione usually slept. "That I am, little man."

Harry appeared at the door Hugo had left open. "How about some pepper up potion, Ron? I have the tea going downstairs, but the potion could help with any lingering effects from last night."

"Please," said Ron, feeling the dull pounding behind his eyes.

He downed the potion and headed to the shower while Hugo scampered off to help Harry with breakfast. As he threw on his clothes, he saw a text appear from Hermione.

Hope last night was fun. I'm pretty sure Mum or Gin spiked my drink because I don't even remember falling asleep. Woke up with Rose in my bed. I was grateful for the potion Ginny left for me as it helped me feel ever so much better. Let me know you're well. I know I'll see you soon, but I still miss you. Love, H

He grinned at her message and quickly sent back one of his own.

I miss you too. Last night was fun – actually more of a party than I had expected between George and your dad. Harry helped me out with some potion this morning too, and I am equally grateful. I just showered and will grab some breakfast. Then will met up with George and go break the news to Mum. I'll let you know how that goes as soon as I have something to report. Love you, R

Hitting send, he grinned and headed down to have breakfast. He hadn't even had a bite of food when George arrived, looking ridiculously chipper.

"Happy Birthday!" they all called.

"Why thank you," George said, taking a bow as he entered. "Today really is all about me, you know."

"You keep telling yourself that," said Hugo dryly as he shoved another spoonful of cereal into his mouth.

"Forty, huh?" said Harry. "You are officially old, mate."

"Well, maybe in the eyes of some. But I've decided to spend the day channeling my inner child and pranking people like the good 'ol days – starting with getting to tell Mum about this little surprise shindig today. It's gonna be a fucking fantastic day."

Ron looked wearily at his brother. "When you say spending the day pranking people, can I please, please, please assume that will not include my bride or her parents and hopefully nothing in the middle of the ceremony?"

"Depends on what it is worth to you, ickleRonniekins," George teased as he grabbed some toast.

"Wow, Ron," Hugo said. "He's even better than me at the well-timed black mail and bribing."

"Perfect. Just what I need is for you to discover a mentor," said Ron throwing a dishtowel at Hugo.

"Blackmail?" smirked Harry as he raised an eyebrow at Ron.

"Oh relax, nothing to get your knickers in a twist over there, Harry. Hugo here just happens to be very talented at knowing when to ask for certain things."

"Like what?"

"Pizza, desserts, pets, you know, the usual," said Ron.

"But you don't have a pet," observed George.

"Yet!" chimed in Hugo. "When I asked for that it wasn't really a blackmail moment. More of a weak moment. So it didn't have the same effect."

"Wow," observed George, nodding approvingly.

"I know. He's totally joining Al in Slytherin. But at least it won't be a surprise when it happens," laughed Ron.

"I'm just intrigued to know what little tidbits of knowledge he has that are worth such fabulous payouts," said George, pulling up a chair next to Hugo.

"Yeah, me too," laughed Harry.

Hugo looked at Ron, who shrugged and said "None of it is a secret really. You can tell 'em."

Hugo grinned. "Well, I got pizza and dessert out one night when Ron almost burned the house down because he was so distracted being all kissy face with Hermione."

George yelped in glee, slapping the table and throwing his head back in laughter. "Oh, it is going to be a great birthday. When was this little escapade?"

"Yeah, my little man here said something like 'well, should we call either of your parents and ask them to have us all over for dinner once we tell them what happened or are we going out for pizza?' It was rather slick."

"Oh, you're good," said George, shaking Hugo's hand.

"I know," smiled Hugo.

"What happened?" said Harry to Ron as George continued to natter away with Hugo.

"Uh, well, Hermione and I had our first – well only so far actually – really huge argument and were, uh, making up, so to speak, and between thinking she was chucking me and then being so relieved to realize she wasn't, I sort of forgot to keep track of the chicken that caught on fire in the oven. I had Hermione pinned up against the wall – fully clothed mind you – but suddenly the kitchen was full of smoke. Hugo runs in and sees us and about a millisecond later the muggle smoke detector went off, which of course I didn't know what it even was so didn't know how to make it stop. Anyway – it was a real stellar parenting moment, and Hugo absolutely seized the opportunity and made the most of it."

"Oh that's brilliant," laughed Harry, having to take his glasses of to wipe away the tears of laughter.

At 10 the four of them headed to The Burrow to drop the bomb on Molly and get things set up. When they stepped through the floo, there wasn't anyone in the living room. Harry and Hugo went on outside to begin setting up the tent while George and Ron went to the kitchen to look for their mum. Not surprisingly, she was conducting an orchestra of food preparation around the kitchen, but smiled happily when she saw her sons come in.

"Well, this is a lovely surprise! Come on in, I'll get you a cuppa. Happy birthday, Georgie. Let me give you a birthday kiss."

"Mum," George complained. "I'm 40 today. I think that puts me comfortably north of the birthday kiss age window."

"Nonsense," she tutted. "No such thing. I mean really, when do you plan to stop fussing over your children?"

"Well, never, I suppose," he confessed, allowing his mum to kiss him on the cheek and muss his hair.

"So, what brings you two over early today? I didn't expect everyone until later."

"Well," George grinned, "Ron has a bit of a surprise to tell you about. Don't you Ron?"

Ron gulped, looking at his mum's expectant face. "Uh, well, Hermione and I are planning to get married."

"Oh I know that dear, remember – I was at your engagement party!"

"Yeah, well, we're getting married today. This afternoon. At your house. Sort of a surprise wedding."

"Hah, hah," scoffed Molly, pursing her lips together and glancing between the two tall gingers. "I may be an old lady, but I have been around the block more than a few times. You'll have to try a lot harder than that to pull one over on me on April Fools day."

George was now covering his eyes and shaking with laughter.

"Mum, it's not a joke," Ron said defensively. "We are getting married today. We didn't want to elope because we wanted the whole family there, but we wanted a small wedding that wouldn't turn into a media circus or anything, so we thought we'd do it when the whole family would already be here. And Easter seemed to be a good time to do it."

"You really are sticking to this prank aren't you, Ron? Honey, it didn't work. You'll need to try another gag later today on someone else. You just can't trick your old mum. I raised George and Fred, remember?" With that she gently patted his cheek and returned her attention to the knives that were chopping piles of carrots.

"Oh I remember," said Ron, not believing the situation he now found himself in.

"Fred would LOVE this," laughed George.

"I know, he never did think Ron could pull off a prank," sighed Molly.

"Oh, brother," smiled George.

"Ok, Mum, it's not a prank. Harry and Hugo are outside right now setting up a tent for the ceremony. Hermione and Rose and her mum will be here in about two hours to get ready. She spent the night at her house last night, bad luck to see the groom before the wedding and all that."

"Ron, please, let it go and move on," she said. "Oh, be a dear. Take that crate of Easter eggs out to your father. He's in the back field. I know most of the grandkids are too old for Easter egg hunts, but frankly I love it and it's my house, so he's going to hide them out there, and he could use your help."

"Ok, Mum," said George. "Mr. 'Can't-Can't-Pull-Off-A-Prank' and I will take these out to Dad," he said, dragging Ron out of the kitchen.

"Mum, I'm telling you. We're having a wedding today," called Ron as George hauled him out of the kitchen. "Please don't be mad at me when you realize it's true."

When the brothers got outside, George burst into peals of laughter. "This is the best birthday EVER," he shrieked. "Fred is all over this."

"George, she is going to freak out when she realizes it's true. She's going to want to do up her hair and what not. She's gonna kill me. And then Hermione's gonna be mad at me because I upset my mum on our wedding day. Shite! What am I going to do?"

"You're gonna roll with it, little brother. She'll figure it out. But you tried. Now let's go hide some Easter eggs and try to convince Dad that you're getting married."

Ron just nodded and followed his brother in a daze toward the back field. After a bit, they'd managed to hide the Easter eggs, but still hadn't found their father. So, they gave up that search and headed over to help Harry and Hugo with the tent. Feeling that was under control, Ron set off to find his Dad and try again to convince his parents that there would, in fact, be a wedding there that afternoon.

As he walked back up to The Burrow, he felt his mobile buzz and saw it was Hermione calling. Feeling a mix of relief and dread, he answered the phone.

"Hi," he said.

"Hi yourself. Are you at The Burrow?"

"Yes, I am, actually. The tent is up, and they are setting up chairs now."

"What did your mum say when you told her?"

"She, well, uh, she doesn't believe me. She thinks I am trying to pull over an April Fools prank on her. George is dying of laughter, and Mum is adamant that she won't fall for my jokes. And I can't find my dad anywhere."

"Oh my. I didn't see that one coming."

"Yeah me either."

"So what are you doing now?"

"Walking back from where the tent is back to the house to try and find my parents. I already poked my head into Dad's muggle shed, but he wasn't there. So, basically I am just wandering around Devon trying to convince my parents we're getting married today. What are you up to?"

"Actually I've had a lovely morning. Mum and Dad came over and we went out to brunch. I was wondering if we could start bringing the flowers and everything over?"

"Sure. Well – wait, you're not doing that, right? I mean, I though Hugo and I would just keep popping back and forth with those buckets."

"Well, I probably won't schlep too much myself. But Rose and my parents can do some."

"Let me get back up to the house and try one more time to convince them about the wedding. So, maybe in thirty minutes or so?"

"Ok. Mum will want to come through before me, as she is adamant about you not seeing me."

"I get it. We've made it this long, what's a few more hours, right?"

"Right. So – I was assuming we'd head up to one of the bedrooms upstairs so I can get all brided-up. Which room should we use?"

"Probably Ginny's- I think there is a full length mirror in there. Do you know which one that is?"

"Yes, I do actually. So – we'll come in about thirty minutes and head up there, alright?"

"Sounds great. I'll not see you then, but I'll see everyone else I suppose."

"I love you."

"I love you, too."

He got back to the house and realized no one was anywhere to be found. Giving up on trying to make everything work, he quickly popped up to Ginny's old bedroom to make sure it was ready for Hermione. Everything looked great, and he smiled, thinking of how she would soon be getting ready there. He jotted a quick note to her, and conjured a red rose, leaving both on the desk for her to find. Hearing some noise downstairs, he set off to try to convince his parents of the game plan. He was relieved to finally find them both in the kitchen.

"Mum, did you tell Dad what I told you?"

"Seriously, Ronald, let it go," Molly laughed.

"What? Let what go?" asked Arthur.

"Well, I was trying to explain to Mum that Hermione and I are planning to get married here. This afternoon. And Mum thinks it's some sort of bad April Fool's prank and doesn't believe me."

"Is it?" asked Arthur.

"No," laughed an exasperated Ron. "Trust me, I didn't make all those bloody flower arrangements yesterday for a prank. Harry, George and Hugo are out back putting the final touches on the tent, and Hermione, Rose and her parents will be here shortly to start getting ready. I told her to go up to Gin's old room since there is a full length mirror there."

"You're getting married today?" his dad asked.

"Yeah. I am. We wanted to make it a surprise because we wanted it to stay a secret and not get crazy. We didn't want to elope because we wanted all of you there, but yeah – it's today."

"And who exactly is supposed to be conducting this little 'wedding'?" asked his mum in a teasing tone.

"Hermione wanted Professor McGonagall. That's why I told you we were having a few extra for dinner. It isn't for George's birthday – it's actually because there were a few extra people we wanted for the wedding. It will be McGonagall, Hagrid, Nev and Hannah, Sally Sparrow and of course the Grangers. We invited Luna, but they were out of town. And then Al said last night he had invited Scorp and had worked that out with you already."

"He did," she nodded. "But you've only been engaged for a month. You can't possibly expect me to believe you can pull off a wedding that quickly."

"Oh, but we have. Here – I have her ring in my pocket. See?" he said, pulling out the little black box.

"Umm hmm," said his mum, unconvinced.

Arthur looked up at Ron, squinting his eyes at his son. "You're not joking are you?"

"No, I promise. I had to tell George early because I wanted to be sure it would be ok to do this on his birthday. But he thought it was hilarious, so he was in on it. And we told McGonagall because we wanted to be able to be sure she would do it. We told the kids and Hermione's parents the other night because, well, I wanted Michael to have time to prepare himself to walk her down the aisle. And Harry and Gin found out last night because we needed help with the arrangements. We figured you had the food all done, and Jean baked the cakes and made the icing, but she said she wanted to put the icing on here so it didn't get messed up in the floo."

As he was speaking, they heard the floo sound in the other room.

"Ron?" Rose called.

"Hey Rose, in the kitchen," Ron called. Rose walked in with her arms full of flowers. Molly just stared at the flowers, eyes growing wide at the sight.

After placing them on the kitchen table, Rose hugged Ron, and said, "Just wanted to be sure you didn't see Mum when she came through. Let me go tell her you're in here. Don't peek!"

"Wouldn't dare," he assured.

Then as Rose bounced back out of the kitchen, Molly looked and Arthur and then at Ron. "YOU'RE GETTING MARRIED TODAY? AND YOU DIDN'T TELL ME?" she shrieked.

"I've been trying to tell you for an hour now, Mum!"

Arthur tried to suppress his smirk as he saw the wide range of emotions across his wife's face. "Now, Molly, it sounds like the Grangers are about to arrive, let's go greet our apparently very soon to be in-laws."

Mouth gaping, Molly simply nodded and let Arthur lead her into the living room. Ron felt himself collapse into the kitchen chair as he listened to his parents go out and greet Hermione and the Grangers. He ran his hands through his hair and exhaled slowly trying to calm his nerves from the interaction with his parents, and as his left hand hit his face he suddenly realized that in a few hours there would be a wedding ring on his finger. And, it would stay there for the rest of his life. As if he had been hit by a stunning spell, he instantly felt the churning butterflies in his stomach that he had always heard Harry and his brothers talk about before their weddings. The feeling caught him off guard, as he knew he wanted to marry Hermione. But something about suddenly realizing the ring would be there until he died was a strange sensation. And then the even more overwhelming fear shot through him that Hermione could think the same thing, realize what an utter mistake it was and run for it before the ceremony. As he was staring at his left hand, Harry and George walked through the door to the kitchen. After sharing a knowing look between themselves, they quickly sat down, one on each side of Ron.

"You ok there, Ron?" Harry asked quietly.

"Huh?" asked Ron, slightly dazed by the churning in his stomach. "Um, yeah, I'm fine. Just felt a bit funny there for a moment. Must have been all the nonsense trying to convince Mum and such."

"Uh huh," said George, not believing a word of it. "Well, you look a bit green. And green freckled ginger grooms don't make for good wedding pictures. Let's get a biscuit and some tea in you. I might even have some of that special tea I'm known for around here somewhere."

"Yup, as your Mum would say, you look a bit peaky to be sure. Though I am not quite sure he is strong enough for your tea, George. Let's stick to the less potent stuff for now, eh?"

Ron let himself be talked into eating a few biscuits and having some tea and soon felt slightly stronger.

"I was doing fine until I was left alone," he observed. "I don't think you lot should leave me alone anymore today."

"Agreed," said Harry and Ron in unison, hiding their smirks.

Molly bustled back into the kitchen muttering phrases like "in all my years," "a surprise wedding," and "should never let myself be shocked," but seemed completely oblivious to the three wizards at the table. Soon Jean came in carrying the cakes that still needed to be iced, hugging Ron as soon as she set the cakes on the table.

"We already saw Hugo, he must've come round the other door. Sounds like you all had a good time last night, or at least Michael thought so. He does love hanging out with you younger men. It does him good I think. But I cannot believe you took him up on a broom, Harry!"

Harry just laughed. "Well, we all had fun. Has Hermione gone up and gotten settled in Ginny's old room? Do you need anything?"

"Yes, she and Rose headed up there, and they are all set I believe. I'm going to ice these cakes and then join them shortly. You doing ok? Hermione said you got the tent up already."

"Tent's all set," Ron said. "Do you need help with the cake?"

"Well, don't take this the wrong way, Ron, but I don't think I need your help on the cake. Why don't you lot clear out of here and leave this to us, alright? Oh, and happy birthday, George!"

"Thanks," George grinned. "It's been a positively smashing birthday so far."

With that, George and Harry dragged Ron out of the kitchen and took him up to his old room on the top floor.

"So, is there any actual plan to the day from here or are we just sort of winging it?" asked George.

"Uh, well, not too much of a plan. Mum had told everyone to get here around 2, right? I figured we would have the wedding when everyone was here."

Harry nodded. "Yeah, I may have called Charlie. Didn't give it away or anything, but told him something was going down and that he'd want to be here on time for once."

"Good call," nodded George.

"Does Hermione know this plan?" inquired Harry.

"Ummm…not exactly sure," admitted Ron, losing his color again.

"No worries, Ron. Don't get all pasty looking on me again. I'll get Ginny to make sure Hermione and her Mum are up to date on the idea. But, basically, if I have it right – the goal is to aim to be ready around 215 or 230 right?"

"Yeah, yeah. That's good," nodded Ron hastily.

Harry laughed, knowing that the Ron he'd worked with for decades would never stand for such a sketchy plan. But throwing your own surprise wedding was, admittedly, an entire other level. "Right, I'll go get her caught up, check on the flowers and everything being set out and get a general sense if our timing will work for your and Hermione's mums. Are your clothes already up here or do I need to fetch them?"

"Yeah, my stuff and Hugo's stuff are in the closet, but I don't think the button flower thingies are up here. I think those are down with the other flowers."

"Right. Good. Just checking."

As each additional family member and friend arrived and discovered the surprise awaiting them, shrieks of disbelief followed by peals of laughter could be heard floating up the stairs to the bedrooms were Hermione and Ron were getting ready. Ron quickly realized that the amount of time actually required for him to get ready would be about 5 minutes. But, when he suggested going back down and helping set up everything, George quickly intervened.

"No way, Ron. Trust me – you would be knocking things over left and right. It's best if you just stay up here where all you could break are some old quidditch posters and other treasures no one has seen in twenty years."

"So what do I do up here to keep myself from going completely barmy?"

"That's what my special tea is for," grinned George, wagging his eyebrows.

"Yeah, I am still with it enough to know that's a bad plan," laughed Ron.

But the need to stay busy was soon a moot point as each brother, family member and friend started finding their way up the staircase to come congratulate – and tease – Ron on the unexpected nuptials. One by one, he was able to have a few moments with each of his siblings, and before he knew it, Ginny brought up Hugo to get ready as well.

"Well, the tent is ready, the chairs are set up, the cakes are iced, the flowers are out and McGonagall is here to marry you."

"That sounds so wrong when you say it that way," laughed Ron.

"Yeah, yeah. You know what I mean you prat."

"Um, have you seen Hermione? Is she ready? I don't want to rush her or anything."

Hugo grinned. "I just saw her. She looks really pretty."

Ginny smiled, "We popped in on our way up the stairs. They are all ready and just waiting on the word. I gave her dad the boutonniere for him, and now I need to do your two jackets as well. And Hannah has assumed the job of photographer, so she is running around snapping pictures of everything. She's reminding me of your Uncle Collin, actually," she said to Hugo, who smiled.

"Ok," said Ron, surprised at how calm he suddenly felt. Somehow, hearing that Hermione was ready instead of running away and changing her mind soothed his nerves.

Ginny and Harry fussed over their jackets and had Ron and Hugo looking quite smart. Harry looked out the window and saw George give him a thumbs up. Ginny saw it as well and gave Ron a peck on the cheek.

"I can't decide whether to tell you how happy I am for you or tell you it's about bloody time," she said, patting Ron lovingly on the cheek. Then, turning to Hugo she said, "Would you be so kind as to escort me down the stairs?"

"But of course," said Hugo with a grin, offering Ginny an arm. "See you down there Ron. Don't trip!"

"Thanks, little man," Ron scoffed as Hugo headed out of the room.

"Ready?" asked Harry quietly.

"Yeah," nodded Ron. "I really am."

"Then let's go, mate" grinned Harry, holding the door open for his best friend, giving him a loving pat on the back as they headed out of the orange bedroom.

When they reached the living room, Ron saw his parents waiting for him. His dad shook his hand and then gave him a hug, and Molly was already dabbing tears from her eyes. Soon Rose and Jean came down as well. Arthur escorted Molly into the tent. Harry offered his arm to Jean, who kissed Ron and Rose and then headed into the tent leaving Ron alone with the kids.

"You guys ready?" he asked.

"We've been ready," smiled Rose. "It was you and Mum that had to catch up, you know."

"Can I have a good luck hug?" he asked earnestly, and was instantly crushed by the two children who held his heart.

"We love you Ron," Hugo said. "You won't screw up. And even if you do, Hermione will still marry you, and we'll still be family anyway."

"What he said," nodded Rose, trying not to get weepy.

He kissed them both. "I love you both so much. And I am so, so grateful for you."

At that, Michael stuck his head around the corner. "Are we ready?"

"Just about, I think," nodded Ron. "Hugo, I do believe that's our cue."

Hugo nodded, and then he and Ron headed down the aisle to stand next to Professor McGonagall, who was beaming at him and looking almost as emotional as his mum. He stood facing the group in the tent and was slightly overwhelmed at the almost forty faces of the people he loved most in the whole world looking back at him. Each smiled at him in their own way – some teasing, some weepy, but all happy for him and happy to be there. Somehow music came from somewhere, and soon he saw Rose coming down the aisle, grinning broadly from ear to ear. He saw her wave at someone, but before he could look for who it was, all heads had turned and he realized Hermione had come to the entrance to the tent. Ron had been to many, many weddings over the years, and he'd seen many a crying bride and a few so made up that they were hardly recognizable as themselves. But he knew he had never seen a bride more perfect than Hermione.

She was absolutely radiant. Ron vaguely recognized that a muggle wedding song was playing from somewhere as she came in on her father's arm. But, his eyes, attention and heart were so locked onto the woman coming towards him down the aisle that little else registered with him. She look relaxed, beautiful and elegant as she walked towards him. Her hair was partially pinned back with white flowers woven into it somehow, while her amazing curls bounced softly, framing her beaming smile.

Finally Hermione was in front of him. Michael shook Ron's hand, muttering "thrilled for you both" before kissing Hermione on the cheek and placing her hand in Ron's before going to sit next to Jean.

"Hi," he said quietly, grinning from ear to ear. Instinctively he went to kiss Hermione's hand.

"Not yet, Mr. Weasely," pronounced McGonagall with no hint of amusement in her voice. But, it caused laughter to ripple through the tent as he felt his ears blush.

"Right. Sorry," he said to Hermione, who just grinned at him. Relieved to see Hermione wasn't upset, he said "Sorry," to his old teacher.

"Well, I could never get you to listen back in the day. I see no reason why you should start now," she quipped, causing more laughter. "Mr. Weasley's lack of listening skills as a student aside, I could not have been more thrilled when these two approached me about performing this ceremony today. While as a teacher I have to treat all my students equally, there is no denying that there are some which carve out special places in your life. And both Mr. Weasely and Ms. Granger have those special places in my mind and my heart. Both faced unique challenges in their individual journeys. And while both could have chosen easier paths, they have both consistently put the safety, needs and betterment of others ahead of themselves. I could not have been happier to learn that two such loving, interesting, selfless and, frankly, deserving souls had found their way to each other. And, in finding each other, they not only became a loving couple, but a loving family of four. They have asked today that I lead them in the exchange of vows and rings as well as the traditional blessings and binding of magic. They, along with the children, have also requested to share commitment vows with Hugo and Rose so that this wonderful family will go forth from here today with an outstanding foundation of love, magic, trust and commitment."

Ron could hear McGonagall still talking, but it was as if the words were just dancing around them. He felt Hermione stroke his hand gently with her soft, delicate fingers, and he was reminded of the first time they met at Dennis and Fi's wedding. That jolt he had felt when they had touched that first time on the dance floor was still there for him. While he had gotten used to the sensation, he still did not take it for granted. He took a deep breath in, closing his eyes briefly to allow the feel of their magic flowing together to take root in his memory of this moment. Opening his eyes again, he saw she was staring at him in both love and concern, so he smiled at her and squeezed her hand, erasing the look of concern in her eye. Soon he could hear McGonagall instructing them to exchange their vows.

Turning to face each other, he gazed into her perfect brown eyes. While vaguely aware of the presence of everyone else, he was completely enveloped in her gaze. He smiled, held both of her hands in his and took a slow, deep breath. Barely able to contain his grin, he said, "I, Ronald Bilius Weasley, am incredibly blessed to take you, Hermione Jean Granger, to be my wife. Today in front of our friends and family I enter into our life bond freely and without hesitation knowing my love for you is absolute and without condition. Hermione, you are my beloved, and I vow to love and honor and serve you as your true partner. All that I have is already yours, and I vow to strive each day to be the man you somehow see in me. I promise to love you and be loved by you. I promise to trust you and be trusted by you. I promise to respect you and be respected by you. I promise to encourage you and be encouraged by you. And I promise to work with you each day to patiently strengthen our marriage and face together whatever journeys may be ahead relying on each other for comfort, strength and joy. I swear upon my magic to love and be faithful to you with my heart, my body and my soul until such time that death parts us."

As he finished speaking, he reached up to wipe the one tear falling down Hermione's grinning face. "You ok?" he whispered.

She laughed, nodded and said, "I am more than ok!"

"Ok, just checking," he said softly, not quite ready to let go of her face.

She reached up and touched his cheek as well and said, "I, Hermione Jean Granger, take you, Ronald Bilius Weasley, to be my husband. Today in front of our friends and family I enter into our life bond freely and without hesitation knowing my love for you is absolute and without condition. You are my beloved, and I vow to love and honor and serve you as your true partner. All that I have is already yours, and I vow to strive each day to be the woman you see in me. I promise to love you and be loved by you. I promise to trust you and be trusted by you. I promise to respect you and be respected by you. I promise to encourage you and be encouraged by you. And I promise to work with you each day to patiently strengthen our marriage and face together whatever journeys may be ahead relying on each other for comfort, strength and joy. I swear upon my magic to love and be faithful to you with my heart, my body and my soul until such time that death parts us."

Her hand still on his face, she wiped her thumb gently under his eye to ward off the tear threatening to fall, and the gesture made him give a half laugh, half cry of relief as he reached up for her hand and pulled it to his lips.

"Well alright, Mr. Weasley, I'm getting there," teased McGonagall. Then she shifted her voice back to a formal, serious tone, adding, "You may now exchange rings as a symbol of your love and commitment to each other."

"Now?" Ron asked of his Professor.

"Yes, now," said McGonagall in her stern Professor voice.

"Right," Ron said in a tone between nervousness and embarrassment. As the crowd waited quietly, no one reached for any rings. Finally, Harry stepped from his seat and whispered in Hugo's ear. The boy blushed and reached into his jacket pocket and pulled out the two rings. "Don't worry, I have them," he said smiling as he handed one to Hermione and one to Ron.

"Thanks, wingman," Ron winked at him, causing Hugo to beam with pride.

Ron slipped the ring over Hermione's finger saying "With this ring, I thee wed."

She grinned at him, and then she put the ring on Ron's finger saying, "With this ring, I thee wed."

They held hands, still staring at each other as Professor McGonagall cast her wand in an intricate movement around them. With her incantation, Ron and Hermione felt their magic flowing together as it pulsed through the two of them. McGonagall continued, "Through the exchange of these sacred vows and symbolic rings, and through the intertwining of your magic, you, Ronald and Hermione, are now married. You are from this moment forward bound together in love and through the unification of your magic, and I am thrilled to pronounce you husband and wife." Without bothering to wait for McGonagall to tell him he could kiss his bride, Ron grinned and engulfed Hermione in his arms, kissing her lovingly. She moved to him as drawn like a magnet, kissing him back passionately.

They were momentarily lost in each other until they heard Hugo sigh, "Oh brother, here we go," causing the entire group to laugh. At the sound, they reluctantly pulled apart from each other, though kept their hands tightly entwined as they continued to beam at each other.

"I guess I can skip the part where I invite you to kiss your bride, Mr. Weasley," scoffed McGonagall.

"Or I could do it again," laughed Ron, leaning in to kiss Hermione on the cheek as she blushed and grinned.

"In addition to performing a wedding here today, we are also celebrating the foundation of a family of four really tremendous people. In recognition that this unique family would not be here without the loss of four important souls, we have four candles lit here to honor Rose's birthparents who died in Pakistan eleven years ago as well as Dennis and Fiona Creevey, who most of us knew and loved and mourned dearly when we lost them last year."

She gestured to the table that most had assumed was an altar, but upon closer examination, the four white candles had small cards at their bases. One had a picture of a man's silhouette with the word "father" written beneath it in Pashto, while the one next to it had a woman's silhouette with the word "mother" written beneath in Pashto. On the other end of the table, one candle had a small picture of Dennis Creevey, with "Daddy" written on it, while the last one had a picture of Fiona Creevey and "Mummy" written on it. At that, Hermione and Ron took four small bouquets of white lilies and rosemary that were wrapped in the same pale green ribbon that surrounded her bouquet. Holding hands, they placed one bouquet in front of each candle, allowing a moment of silent remembrance and gratitude for each person represented.

When they had finished, McGonagall cleared her throat politely and then said, "While the relationship between Hermione and Rose has already been that of mother and daughter, this lovely family has asked that we conduct the formal adoption ceremony for them as well, as they had not had the opportunity to complete the magical ritual component of their adoption prior to today. And while Hugo is in no way renouncing his connection to his parents Dennis and Fiona, he has also asked to formalize the adoption process with Ron and Hermione as a way of recognizing and honoring the fact that he is now their child as well, as well as formalizing the sibling bond that is already quite strong between him and Rose. So, now we will move to the family vows. Mr. Weasley?"

Ron took a slow breath, cleared his throat, and knelt down to be able to look both Rose and Hugo in the eye. Taking Hugo's hand, he said, "Hugo Collin Creevy, I vowed many years ago to become your godfather. I was thrilled and honored by your Mummy and Daddy to even be considered for the job. And I loved getting to be the fun bloke who would come in and take you to quidditch matches and give you candy that your parents wouldn't want you to have. But then then unthinkable happened, and we found ourselves heartbroken together. And since that time I have learned so much from you. I have learned from you what patience and forgiveness and unconditional love really mean. And I have been so bloody honored that you have trusted me to walk with you through the dark times and the sadness and to celebrate with you through the amazing times as well. And I am so glad that I knew your Mummy so well that I can practically hear her voice in my head telling me every single day what to say and do. She loved you so, so much – even before you were born. But I got to be there that day, and I am thrilled that I have been there every step of the way since. I love you as my own. And I still promise to never try to replace your Mummy and Daddy, but I am so glad I can help you know them and know their love, and I am thrilled to get to be a parent for you here where they can't be. And I promise to keep learning each day how to be a better parent than the day before. And as a family we will continue to teach each other about love and patience and kindness and adventure. I promise to love you each and every day as my child- to encourage you, nourish you and guide you. I also promise to learn from you, be amazed by you and thoroughly enchanted by you. So today I swear upon my magic to continue to help you know, love and remember your amazing parents while at the same time I vow to take you as my own son, to try each day to be the father you deserve and to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life."

Hugo hugged Ron tightly, squeezing his eyes shut as he did, forcing the tears down his cheek. Hermione bent down to kiss him and wipe the tears away. As she held him she said, "Hugo, I am so honored to be a part of your family. In many ways I have been lucky enough to be a part of your family long before you were ever born. I have known the love of your grandparents and uncle and daddy, and I am so glad I can help you know how wonderful they each were and how very proud I know they each are of you. And when the world changed for us last year, I was so bloody mad at your parents for making some crazy ginger bloke who couldn't use a cell phone or drive a car your godparent and not me. But getting to see the wisdom of their choice has been one of the most incredible blessings of my life. And I have been so amazed and honored to watch you continue to grow and love and live over the last year. And while I also promise to never try to replace your Mummy and Daddy, I am also so very happy I get to be a parent for you while they cannot. I promise to love you each and every day as my child- to encourage you, nourish you and guide you. I also promise to learn from you, be amazed by you and thoroughly enchanted by you. Today I swear upon my magic to continue to help you know, love and remember your amazing parents while at the same time I vow to take you as my own son, to try each day to be the mother you deserve and to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life."

Hugo was openly weeping now, and hugged Ron and Hermione tightly. Finally, watching this, Rose stepped over and hugged the three as well. Ron took the opportunity to turn to her, hold her hands in his and say, "Rose Hila Granger, I am so grateful you have welcomed me into your family and heart. I know I haven't always known what to do or what to say, but you have somehow always understood that my intentions were always to help you and love you. I can remember vividly the moment I looked at you and suddenly realized I loved you as my own. From that instant on, you were born in my heart as my child. Your kindness, openness, acceptance, love and encouragement has been life giving to me over this past year. Your willingness to trust me and share with me has been incredible. Time and time again I have tried to imagine what it must be like to have an amazing family of two and then suddenly have a bloke like me turn your world upside down. But you not only allowed it, you encouraged it, and I am forever grateful for that trust. I promise to love you each and every day as my child- to encourage you, nourish you and guide you. I also promise to learn from you, be amazed by you and thoroughly enchanted by you. Today I swear upon my magic to take you as my own daughter, to try each day to be the father you deserve and to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life."

Rose simply nodded, tears falling as well. Then Hermione, wiping her own tears away, turned to Rose and said, "Oh my sweet, sweet Rose. You grabbed my heart all of those years ago and I just knew we were meant to be family. At that time I did not understand the magic that may have drawn us together, but I absolutely felt that magic pulling me to my very core and telling me I was yours and you were mine. For years I thought I could never imagine changing our perfect little family for anyone. I couldn't imagine anyone being good enough to mess things up for the Granger Girls. But, then one day I realized our family of two had already expanded to a family of four. There was more than enough love for all four of us, and you kept letting both Ron and I know that not only were you ok with us dating, but that you wanted us as a family. You will always be my little baby, but now you are also an amazing young woman who happens to also be my friend and daughter. And I promise to you that none of that will change. Growing our family from two to four has only exponentially grown the love in our family, not simply divided the love that was there. That is part of the amazing magic of family. I promise to love you each and every day as my child- to encourage you, nourish you and guide you. I also promise to learn from you, be amazed by you and thoroughly enchanted by you. Today I swear upon my magic to again claim you as my own daughter, to try each day to be the mother you deserve and to love you unconditionally for the rest of my life."

McGonagall wiped her eyes and asked, "Rose, Hugo, do you both promise to love your parents and each other and to work hard at respecting, honoring and caring for your family?"

They both smiled and said "We do" through tears.

"Good. I thought so. And do all of those friends and family present today promise to support and love this young family, to encourage them and help them as they go forth from this ceremony?"

"We promise," said the voices in the crowd.

McGonagall then directed the four of them to hold hands in a circle with each child holding the hand of each adult. She then moved her wand over them reciting an almost inaudible incantation, and then finally saying with a smile, "Through the exchange of these sacred vows, Ron, Hermione, Rose and Hugo are now an official family of four. I am thrilled to pronounce you siblings and parents, as father, mother, daughter and son." With that, they each felt a warmth move through them, and a pale glowing light was momentarily visible at the center of the family circle. Hermione and Ron both noticed that it felt as if a wind had swirled inside the circle, and while all four candles flickered furiously, none extinguished. They squeezed their hands and cherished the moment.

Professor McGonagall smiled at the scene and continued, "You shall go forth from here today bound in love, magic and commitment as a family that has all the rights, responsibilities, expectations and privileges of any family born of biology instead of simply love. Please take care of each other. When you fight, forgive. When you hurt each other, apologize. When you forget, remember. But most importantly, appreciate, love and cherish each other."

"We will," Ron said in a voice cracking with emotion, with the other three nodding in agreement through tears.

Finally McGonagall said, "Well, this has been one of the most moving ceremonies I have ever had the privilege to witness. Thank you, all four of you, for allowing us to be here, to bear witness and to celebrate with you today. Now, before we all crush you with well wishes, I believe there is one final part of this celebration, correct?" she asked, and Ron looked back at her confused. But then a screeching noise was heard across the sky, and a blast of fireworks went off in the sky above the tent.

Ron looked at George who grinned and said, "Best bloody birthday in twenty years."

Ron laughed, gave an appreciative nod to his brother and then turned to kiss his wife again beneath the fireworks exploding above them.

The rest of the day was a blur to them both. They both could look back later and remember key moments like dancing with each other and their parents and kids as well as when the whole gathering sang Happy Birthday to George when they cut the cake.

Molly pulled Hermione aside at one point to hug her tightly. "I'm sorry this was such a surprise on you today, Mrs. Weasley," Hermione said apologetically.

"Oh please, Hermione. I've tried to tell you to call me Molly for months. And now that you are my daughter in law, I absolutely insist. And I didn't pull you aside to fuss. I just wanted to say thank you."

"Thank you for surprising you?"

"Oh, well, I suppose that too, but thank you for finding my Ron. I have never seen him as happy as I have today. Ever. In his entire life. And that is all thanks to you, my dear."

"Well, I don't know that it's all me-"

"I do. Parenthood is good for him, but you are the one who gives him the love and encouragement to be a parent anyway. So, thank you. He was always my child with the most tender, sacrificial heart. And then life sort of swept him up. I had gotten to the point where I never thought he would get to have a family. But now he does, and that is thanks to you-" Molly said as tears sprang from her eyes.

"Oh Molly, he does the same for me, you know."

Molly just nodded, sniffing away her tears as she hugged her newest daughter in law.

As the evening drew to a close, Rose and Hugo were hugging their now official parents goodbye.

"OK, so you're off with Harry and Gin tonight. Rose, I'm sorry we can't see you off tomorrow," said Ron.

"That's ok, I think going on your honeymoon is a pretty good excuse," laughed Rose.

"And Lily and I will have fun while you're gone," chimed in Hugo.

"So don't worry about them at all," said Jean as she popped her head into the conversation. "I know Harry and Ginny get Hugo while you're gone, but we will probably steal him for a few nights along the way."

"Thanks, Mum," smiled Hermione.

"Now, are you two leaving from here, or are you swinging back by the house first?"

"We're going back by the house. I want to change and leave my dress there. But, after that, well, Ron won't tell me what the plan is, so I have no idea after that!"

"You still haven't told her?" asked Jean with a twinkle in her eyes.

"Wait, you know?" Hermione protested.

"Maybe," she teased.

"Have a fabulous time, wherever on this planet you may end up tonight."

"We will," said Ron grinning ear to ear. "But, we will miss you guys."

"Today was perfect," Hugo said, hugging them both.

"We love you so much," Hermione said, hugging each of them.

"We love you too."

"Are you going to throw your bouquet?" asked Jean hopefully.

"Definitely not!" declared Hermione as Ron chuckled and held her hand. "No, these flowers are for Professor McGonagall as a thank you," she said happily. "In fact, I need to go do that before I leave. But will you take these other flowers to that care home tomorrow like we talked about? I would especially like that one elderly woman we met to have some. I left her name and information at the house."

"Oh course, darling. I told you I would, and I will. I'll go in the morning so the flowers are still fresh looking."

"Thanks, Mum," Hermione said with a grateful smile. "I know we dumped all of this on you at the last minute, but you and Dad have been amazing these past few days. And today, well, it was absolutely perfect. I could not have imagined anything better. It was just what I wanted. So, thanks," she said as she hugged her mother tightly. After a few more sweet words with her mum, she went to give Professor McGonagall her bouquet as a thank you.

Almost thirty minutes later, Ron was dragging her away from the elder witch. "Love, we have to go if we are going to get home and change before our portkey goes off."

Another twenty minutes of hugs, assurances and well wishes from the family and Ron and Hermione were finally able to disapparate home. Landing in their living room hand in hand, Ron grinned at her and gave her one last passionate kiss before sighing.

"We really do need to change. The portkey goes off in twenty minutes. But, first let me look at you one more time," he said as he stepped back to look at her. Once his eyes roved hungrily up and down, hands gently turning her around, he said, "Hermione, you truly are the most spectacular bride I have ever seen. I am so bloody lucky to have found you."

She blushed and smiled, and went up on her tiptoes to kiss him again. "I feel the exact same way. I love you, Ron."

(A/N: Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you enjoyed the wedding. I know I made you wait for it, but hopefully it was worth the wait. Can't wait to hear your thoughts...carrytheotter)