You are all so amazing. I love you. Thank you for your understanding and well wishes. Life is better now but still busy. I am currently getting ready to travel overseas to finish off my education abroad. I am very excited. I don't really know what my schedule is going to be like, but I will have computer and internet access, so I will continue posting like always, but there might be a loll as I get settle in and there might not be. We'll just have to see.

Some of you expressed your disbelief that Hermione would be unaware of the truth of the baby paternity. That's actually based off a real life experience of mine. There was girl who was some of my friends and she started spending a lot of time with us. I never caught her name and suddenly she was my friend and I didn't know how to ask her what her name was. I was embarrassed that I had known this girl for as long as I did and I didn't know. The more time she spent with my group of friends the better I got to know her and the more I would talk to her and the worse I would feel. It's a horrible feeling to know that the only way you can talk to someone is by waiting for eyes contact because you don't know what to call them. I know this makes me sound like a hen-wit, but I promise I'm not. That was the one and only time that ever happened to me. Anyway, I know her name now her name now and that's all that matters. So in regards to Hermione, she feels like she should know the baby's name and who her mother is. She's known about the baby for months so it would be very uncomfortable to ask, just like it would have been for me. Like me, she is waiting to hear it and hope that it happens sooner than later. I hope that settles any questions you might have on the subject. So, on that note, Happy Reading. I hope you all enjoy it.

Chapter Twelve: The Naming Ceremony

The air was bitterly cold and the wind whipped through the alcove of rock where Ron and his team of Aurors remained hidden cutting through their clothes like frozen rain. Felix wrapped his fingers painfully around his mug, clutching it tight in a vain attempt to glean some warmth.

"He's still not talking?"

Felix glanced up and smiled with gratitude as Gwen Mathews added fresh brew to his cup. He took a hearty sip as Gwen lowered herself to the ground and pulled the blanket slung over her shoulders tighter around her body.

"No." Felix pulled out his wand and renewed the warming spell he had cast on himself before doing the same for Gwen. "You don't happen to know what's happened, do you?"

"No." Gwen held her own mug close to her face, letting the heat rising out of the mouth warm her cold skin. "Parker acts like nothing's wrong and I don't have the nerve to ask Ron. He looks livid."

"Have they ever been like this before?"

Gwen drank steadily from her mug as she thought back over the five years she had known them. "No." She shook her head. "They've always been on friendly terms as far as I can remember."

The two lapsed into easy silence and Felix refocused his attention on Parker and Ron. The two men were both taking shelter behind an outcropping of rock a short distance away. Ron's back was to his team as he looked out into the blackened night, while Parker sat on the ground, his body pressed tight to a large rock that offered him more protection from the cold.

"Should we be worried this is going to affect our mission?"

Gwen's eyes narrowed into thin slits. "Ron and Parker are both professionals. I assure you they will not allow their personal life to interfere with their job."

"I'm sorry." Felix sank back against the rock. "I didn't mean to offend you. I'm just nervous. I can feel the tension between them and its setting me off. I just need to vent a little."

"Well, don't let anyone else hear you questioning their leadership. It wouldn't do to put anyone else off as well." She topped off her mug and breathed in the heavy scent. She loved the smell of coffee. "I hope we catch the bastard soon. I hate this place."

Felix clanked his mug against hers in mock salute. "Agreed."

Teeth beginning to chatter, Ron pulled out his wand and cast another warming charm on the blanket he had wrapped tight around his body. He was hating this place more and more by the second. After four days of chasing Malacar Amadeus through the frozen tundra of Taymyr, and being on less then friendly terms with Parker, something that bothered him a great deal, he was about ready to go home and leave Amadeus to the elements. Anyone mad enough to come here of their own free will deserved to die from the frigid cold.

Behind him he heard the gravel shift as Parker readjusted the position of his legs. "Nasty weather they have here."

Ron pulled the blanket tighter and continued to search the distant hills for anything that seemed out of place.

Parker kept his expression blank though there was a slight twitch to his lips. "You know, it's warmer if you don't stand in the open."

"It isn't that bad." Ron said with resignation, his voice barely heard above the sound the wind made howling off the rocks.

"Merlin," Parker smiled. "He speaks."

Ron turned and frowned with annoyance. "We've been in worse. Northern Scotland has got to get about this cold in winter."

"That's unlikely. But the fact is that its summer now. It isn't meant to be this cold."

"Well," Ron said as he stepped forward to accept a refill of coffee from Gwen, "take comfort in that as cold as we are Amadeus is suffering more."

"Thank you, Gwen." Parker nodded at the dark skinned girl as she stopped to top off his mug. "And why should I take comfort in someone else's suffering?" He asked when they were left alone once again.

"Because," Ron drank deeply, savoring the way he could feel the hot liquid slide down his throat. "Amadeus obviously knows were on his track, he wouldn't have stopped using magic otherwise. There's also a good chance he has no idea how to make a fire the muggle way and is hopefully stupid enough to try. Furthermore, he has to know were closing in."

"Again, why is this supposed to make me feel better?"

"Because, he's cold, he's hungry and he's panicky. Sooner or later he's going to slip up or give in and then we'll have him and we can all go home."

Parker sighed with contentment at the thought. He leaned against the wall of stone at his back, trying to imagine what it would be like to soak in a hot shower. "I can hardly wait to be home." He let his mind wonder further and his lips slipped into the smile Ron recognized as the one he always wore when he was about to talk about his latest lady friend.

Immediately abandoning the truce he had resigned himself to, the redhead's eyes narrowed into a deep scowl. "No doubt Granger's the reason. Can't wait to get into her knickers I expect."

Parker's eyes snapped open and his smile deepened into a wicked grin. "Untwist your own, Weasley. It'll be a long time before she'll let me in there. Not for a lack of trying on my part, I assure you, but you know how she is."

"No," Ron said curtly. "Obviously I don't. Or, you must not be trying very hard."

Parker leaned forward in surprise, bracing his forearms on his knees. "Why do you say that?"

"Never mind." Ron gulped down a mouthful of the dark brown liquid and cursed as his tongue burned from the heart of it.

"No, no, no." Parker's face contorted with interest. "You brought the subject up. Have you been in her knickers, Ron?"

"You know me better than that." He said evenly, diverting his eyes from his partner's perceptive gaze.

"Better then what?"

"Then to ask me a ridiculous question like that." Ron snapped.

"Why is that so ridiculous?" Parker pursued. "You two were very close at Hogwarts."

"And we're not now. What's your point?"

"You never did tell me why you and Hermione stopped talking to each other."

"Parker," there was a cold edge to Ron's voice. "That's enough. Please. Leave it alone. And for that matter, leave her alone as well."

Parker watched him a moment, his head tilted to one side in contemplation. "No." He settled back, his fingers once again curling around the warm mug. "I don't think I will. I like her, Ron. I think Hermione is charming, beautiful, witty, intelligent, a great deal of fun to flirt with." He lifted his mug to his lips. "Give me one fair reason why I should."

"Because," Ron snapped, "I asked you too."

Parker paused a moment, his lips pressed together, holding the hot liquid on his tongue. He swallowed it slowly before answering. "Normally, that would be enough. But in this case I'm afraid it's not. If you could give me one, straight forward reason, I might consider, but…" he shrugged, "your arguments have been more than lacking. I'm a big boy, Ron. I can take care of myself."

Growling with annoyance Ron turned on his heal and walked out of the protective alcove the wall of rock made. The wind pounding through the rocks tore at his clothes and swept the blanket back away from his body like a cape.

Sighing heavily Parkers set aside his mug and climbed to his feet. "Is she you're girl?" He asked as he came to a stop just behind Ron's shoulder.

"Obviously not."

"Do you want her to be?"

Ron shook his head firmly. "No."

"But you did want her to be, didn't you?"

Ron's jaw stiffened painfully. "I don't see why you're asking me these pointless questions None of it matters anymore. That was a long time ago."

"Is that the reason you don't want me chatting her up?"

"No." Ron turned angrily to face him. "It's not. I don't want you chatting her up because she has a high opinion of herself. So high that she deems herself nary untouchable. You pursue this infatuation you have with her and she will cut you quick. Oh, it's all right for Miss Hermione Granger, the brilliant and intelligent to have her fun, flirting and toying with the affections of anyone she wishes, but the moment you…"

"Yes?" Parker prompted when Ron stopped suddenly. "The moment you…what?"

"Nothing." Ron shook his head. "Just please trust me on this and steer clear of her." Ron raised the mug once again to his lips as he turned away and looked back out into the dense darkness. His back tensed abruptly and his head lifted as he stretched his neck. "What did I tell you?" He shouted excitedly, letting his mug drop to the ground, splashing his shoes with the dark liquid as he pulled out his wand. "Four days." Parker stepped forward and followed his line of vision to where a faint orange glow lit up a small patch on a distant hill. "I'll expect my winnings when we get back to England."

Parker shook his head with disbelief. "How is it that you're right every time?"

Ron laughed heartily, overjoyed with the prospect of the hunt and the subsequent return home to his daughter as Parker turned to alert the rest of the group. "I'm just lucky I guess."

He could feel consciousness escaping him as he drifted into sleep but couldn't seem to stop himself. His head dropped to his chest and in an instant it snapped up as he forced himself awake. Rubbing the sleep from his eyes Ron picked up his report and reread what he had written. The words began to blur together and with a growl of frustration he tossed the report aside. Enough was enough. He was going to go home and sleep until it was late enough to head to Harry's and Ginny's without fearing he would be at the receiving end of one of Ginny's Bat-Boogie Hexs for waking her too early.

A short time later he found himself standing in the front hall of his home. He looked around the darkened house and frowned. It was strange to think how the absences of one small child could leave his home felling so empty especially considering that a short time ago empty was the way he liked it.

Using his long fingers to message his face, Ron began to climb the stairs, greedy for a long, hot, relaxing soak in the shower followed by a few hours of undisturbed sleep. After that he would go and retrieve his daughter and spend the rest of the day making up to her for the four days he had been gone.

When the owl arrived he was fast asleep and had been for several hours. It flew in through his open bedroom window and perched on the bedpost closest to his head. The bird looked down at him with his bright amber eyes for several minutes before letting out a loud squawk, flapping his wings, and digging his talons into the wood. When Ron didn't respond, the bird left its perch and landed on his shoulder. He lowered his beak to just above Ron's ear and let out another loud screech as he dug his talons into the flesh of Ron's back.

Yelling furiously Ron came awake with a jolt, frightening the bird into flight as he swore and rubbed at his shoulder where spots of blood were starting to form. "Bloody hell, you stupid bird! What'd you do that for?"

The bird landed once again on the bedpost and stuck out its leg. Glaring at the bird Ron untied the note and dropped it on his bedside table. "There's some water and some bird treats down in the kitchen, not that you deserve any you stupid git, but feel free to help yourself."

When Ron made to lie down again the bird screeched and ruffled his wings with indignation. "Fine." He threw the covers off and rolled onto his side. Taking up the scroll, he unfurled it and blinked the sleep from his eyes, clearing his vision and allowing him to read what he recognized instantly as his mother's hand.

Ronnie,

I was so glad to see you made it home safely this morning. Hopefully I've allowed you a few hours to catch up on your sleep but now it's time for you to get up and make your way to the Burrow straight away. Harry informed me you wished to have the naming ceremony today so we've worked very hard to make that possible. Everything is taken care of.The guests are set to arrive any moment, the baby's dressed, the food is ready, we even found someone to preside over the ceremony. All we need now is for you to get over here as soon as possible.

Dress nice, Mum

Mouth hanging open slightly with surprise, Ron stared at the missive for a few moments. He had completely forgotten about the naming ceremony in the chaos that had ensued over the past few days, but Harry apparently hadn't and had taken over the preparation himself.

Rising to his feet, Ron tossed aside the missive and hurried toward his clothes cabinet, swearing as he stumbled over a shoe he had left in the middle of the floor. Opening the doors, Ron rifled through until he found a clean white shirt, a pair of navy trousers, and his favorite pair of dress robes. Ginny had helped him pick them out two years ago to wear to the banquet celebrating his promotion to Captain. They were simple, clean cut, with strong lines that emphasized his shoulders. They were a dark shade of navy which Ginny told him brought out the blue in his eyes and highlighted the red of his hair.

Running his hands through his fiery mane while he rushed down the stairs, Ron checked one last time to make sure he had everything he needed before turning on the spot and disappearing. When he rematerialized he was standing in the back garden of the Burrow surrounded my family and friends.

"You're here. Mum, Ron's here!" Ginny appeared almost instantly at his side holding his young niece in her arms. "Took you long enough." She leaned up onto her toes to press a kiss to his cheek. "Mum's been going spare. She expected you here an hour ago."

"I came as soon as that blasted bird woke me up. The bloody thing dug his claws in me."

"Sorry." She smiled uneasily. "That was my doing. I told Flynn to make sure you read the message straight away, no matter what it took. He didn't make you bleed, did he?"

"As a matter of fact he did."

"Ronald." The back door flung open and Molly rushed down the few steps to her son. "Where have you been? You arrived home hours ago, and don't you try and deny it, I saw it on the clock."

"I'm sorry Mum, I only just got your letter."

"Hmmm, you're not hurt are you?"

"No Mum." He assured her. "We got him before he had a chance to cast any spells. It just took some time tracking him down. Mum," Ron placed a hand on her arm. "Where is she? I'm just aching to see her."

Molly smiled tenderly as she placed both her hands on the sides of his face and drew him down so that she could press a kiss to each of his cheeks before holding him at eye level. "Look how much my little boy has grown up." She brushed his hair back tenderly. "She's lying down in your room. She didn't sleep very well last night."

"I hope she didn't put you out." Ron said to Ginny when his mother finally released him.

"No." Ginny smiled knowingly, "She didn't put Harry or me out at all."

"I'm glad to hear it. Well, if you two will excuse me, there's a little girl upstairs who I'm sure misses her daddy."

Ron hurried away leaving his mother and sister watching his retreating back. "It's strange how much he's changed in such short a time." Molly said. "When I think of how terrified he was of children just a few months ago. You should have seen the look on his face that first day he had her and he came flying out of the fireplace holding her out like she was going to bite him. If I wasn't so scared he was going to drop her I would have laughed at the absolute terror on his face. Now look at him."

"It looks like he turned out alright."

Molly sighed with relief. "Thank Merlin."

Up on the top floor of the house, Ron was standing outside his old door and smiling at the worn name plate still bearing his name. Slowly he eased open the door and stepped inside. In the middle of his bed, which had been altered to sprout guard rails so the small child would not roll off, slept the black haired baby on her back, her face turned toward the door.

Ron moved to the side of the bed, removed the rail, and knelt on the floor near to her head. He placed a hand on her stomach and gently rubbed in a circle, rousing her out of her sleep. Her little mouth spread wide in a yawn before her eyes opened and lit up at the sight of him. "Hello sweetheart." He leaned forward and kissed her round cheek. "I missed you." He said as he scooped her up and hugged her close, pressing kisses to every bit of her face he could reach. "Have you grown taller?" He asked as he rose to his feet, lifting her high so that she was at eye level. "You're taking after your daddy more and more every day, aren't you? Yes you are." He kissed her one last time before setting her comfortably on his hip. "Did you like staying with your Aunty Ginny and your Uncle Harry?" He asked as he left the room and began his journey down the stairs. "I'll bet you did. And this is a very fetching dress by the way." He tugged on the white frilly hem of the garment. "A gift from your Aunt Ginny no doubt. I know I never would have picked it. But it looks nice. I'm sure it's your aunt's subtle way of telling me that we need a woman's touch in our lives." Ron ticked his tongue a few times as he stared at the dress. "If your Aunty Ginny ever asks you, you tell her that you're the only girl I need in my life. Okay?" He ran his fingers through the gentle curls in her soft hair. "We take care of each other, don't we sweetheart? And we don't need or want anyone else, do we? No." He pressed another kiss to her cheek. "Things are perfect just the way they are."

Molly met the pair at the bottom of the stairs and quickly ushered them toward the back door. "Hurry now." She said, shooing them forward. "Minister Shakelbolt has agreed to perform the ceremony and we mustn't keep him waiting any longer then we already have."

"Wait a tick." Ron turned suddenly about, causing Molly to bump into him in her haste. "Kingsley agreed to do the rite?"

"He insisted." Molly said proudly, beaming up at her son. "The moment he received his invitation he flooed me and Harry and told us as much."

"But how did you know what all was needed. I never told anyone the details."

"Well that's rather simple. I had Harry go to your house and find the information amongst your files. I knew it had to be there so…I hope you don't mind."

"What? That you had Harry go through my things or that he actually went through them?"

"Ronald really, if it will make you feel better I'm sorry that we invaded your privacy. I just so wanted this day to be perfect for you and the baby. It's a very important day. And to be perfectly honest, I'm tired of calling that sweet little girl "the baby" all the time. I want to know what my grandbaby's name is. I think it's admirable that you want to honor some of her family's traditions, but honestly, enough is enough."

"You're right." He agreed.

"I am?" Molly looked surprise at his ready compliance.

"You are. It's about time I name my little girl. And thank you, for putting this all together. You did a wonderful job."

"Well," she colored slightly. "I felt that I owed you."

"For what?" his eyes scrunched with puzzlement.

"For being so harsh with you the day you first brought this little angle into our lives. I should have been more understanding."

"Mum, it's alright." He placed a hand gently on her shoulder. "In all honestly I should be thanking you. If you hadn't been so stern with me…she probably wouldn't be here."

"Well, if you put it that way, it was my pleasure. But that's enough of this. Your guests are waiting for you." She pushed him out the door and amongst the people gathered.

The entire Weasley family was present, including an uncomfortable looking Percy who was standing separate from the rest. He had a disapproving sneer on his face and Ron couldn't help but wonder what had caused it. Along with his family there were some of his former class mates, including Neville, Seamus and Dean, as well as many of the members of the Alpha Squad. Ron scanned the crowd looking for Parker and spotted him standing near the perimeter of the garden with a visibly uneasy Hermione at his sides as well as an olive skinned girl he had never seen before. Ron felt a swell of annoyance at the sight of the little group. He didn't know if he had Parker or Ginny to thank for Hermione's presences, but wasn't surprised in the least that she was latched on to Parker's side.

Hearing his name called, Ron turned away from the small group and found Kingsley Shakelbolt standing at his side. "Hello Mr Weasley."

"Please Minister," he held out his free hand, "Call me Ron."

"Only if you agree to call me Kingsley."

Ron chuckled uneasily "I don't think my mother would approve."

Kingsley threw back his head and laughed. "Ron, don't let this get out, but your mother is one of the most formidable people I have ever met. Sometimes, she even scares me. The last thing I want is Molly's disapproval." The Minister clapped Ron on the shoulder. "So if you don't tell her, I won't. But I must admit, I was a little surprised when my invitation arrived. Of course I've heard the rumors that have been circulating in the Ministry about your supposed fatherhood, but I chose to dismiss them. They all seemed highly unlikely, knowing you as I do. I must say, she doesn't look anything like you."

"Well she wouldn't, would she? Actually, I'm surprised you don't know this already. We must have done a better job than we thought. The Auror department was trying to keep this quiet, but she's actually the orphaned child of known Death Eaters. I'm in the process of adopting her."

Kingsley's eyes had grown suddenly wide. "Really? I had no idea. Why wasn't I made aware of this?"

"Like I said, Greene wanted to keep this quiet to protect the Ministry's image."

"And perhaps the reputation of the Alpha Squad?" He said knowingly. "I'm assuming your team had a part in her parents' deaths."

"Yes, sir." Ron acknowledged. "I'm afraid we did."

"And you're adopting her now?"

"I'm trying."

"That's very admirable."

"Thank you, sir."

"And this naming ceremony? How does it fit in? Harry filled me in on what my role is, but I was wondering, is this a naming or a renaming ceremony?"

"Naming. Her parents died before they could name her."

"I see." Kingsley nodded. "You do understand how important this is, don't you?"

"Yes sir. I believe I do."

"Alright then, shall we get to it?"

"Please." Ron nodded.

"Come this way."

Kingsley led the way to the other side of the garden where a sort of dais had been erected. He climbed the two steps to the top and turned to face the gathering. He lifted his hand and the crowd fell silent. "Hello everyone. Thank you so much for coming. In the interest of time and the wonderful food Molly has prepared for us, I say we get started. Ron, if you please." He motioned Ron to come stand next to him. "May I?" He held his hands out and Ron reluctantly passed over his daughter. "Hello little one." Kingsley chuckled as the small baby reached for the gold hoop strung through his ear. He unwrapped her fingers from around the loop and shifted her so that she couldn't reach for it again.

"Okay everybody. This is going to be quite a simple ceremony. First I'm going to ask Ron what name he has chosen, keeping in mind that this child will bear this name legally and truthfully for the rest of her life. Ron?"

Ron stepped forward, taking a deep breath and squaring his shoulders. "I have put a great deal of time and consideration into the choosing of her name. I wanted to make certain that it suited her in every way possible and I feel that I have finally found the perfect name."

"And what name have you chosen?"

"I have chosen to name her Blake Kinley Weasley."

"Are you certain?"

"Yes." Ron nodded. "I am."

"Very well. You know what to do." He handed the baby back to Ron.

"Little girl," Ron said in his clearest, no nonsense voice. "I, Ronald Billius Weasley, your father, name you Blake Kinley Weasley." Ron's finger tips suddenly tingled where they held her.

"And who have you chosen to be your daughter's godparents."

"I have chosen Harry and Ginny Potter."

Kingsley chuckled again. "Not surprising. Not surprising at all. Harry and Ginny, would you please join us?"

Together Harry and Ginny worked their way through the crowd to the dais and came to stand next to Ron.

"Harry Potter. Ginny Potter. Do you accept Ronald Weasley's decision to be the godparents of his daughter, Blake Kinley, as well as accept all the rights, responsibilities and privileges that accompany the position?"

"I do." Said Harry.

"Yes, of course." Ginny nodded.

"Then pledge yourself to her now."

Harry placed his hand on the child's back and recited the words he and Ginny had worked together to memorize. "I Harry Potter, accept Ronald Weasley's request that I act as Blake Kinley," he glanced at Ron to make sure he had heard correct, "Weasley's godfather. I swear to do my best to protect her, watch over her, and care for her. And if the circumstance should ever arise, I will welcome her into my home as my own. Blake Kinley Weasley, welcome to the family."

When Harry removed his hand Ginny placed hers where it had been. "I Ginevra Weasley Potter, accept Ronald Weasley's request that I act as Blake Kinley Weasley's godmother. I swear to do my upmost to protect her, care for her and love her to the fullest of my capacity. And if ever the worst should happen, I will welcome her into my home as my own. I would like to welcome you, Blake Kinley Weasley, into my family." Ginny leaned forward and pressed a kiss to the child's cheek.

"Well done." Kingsley's voice boomed as he stepped forward and took the little girl out of Ron's arms. "Friends and family, I would like to formally introduce you to Blake Kinley Weasley."

The gathered crowd erupted into an explosion of sound as cheers rent the air. Ron took back his daughter and turned to face the cheering crowd. He instantly spotted his mother who was dabbing at her eyes while his father placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. Bill was standing near the dais with his small family, beaming up at Ron with pride. He worked his way through the crowd seeking out each member of his immediate family and much to his own annoyance, Hermione Granger. She was clapping as well, but the look on her face stated clearly that she wished to be anywhere else but where she was at the moment. As he watched, Hermione leaned over and said something to the olive skinned girl next to her. The other girls eyes grew large, and she looked at Hermione with surprise. For a moment Ron couldn't help but wonder what had been exchanged between the two girls but quickly dismissed it as Katie Bell, Alicia Spinet and some of the other members of the Hogwarts Quidditch team moved forward to speak with him.

"Are you ready to leave?" Hermione asked Beila, ignoring the look of disappointment that instantly washed over Parker's face.

"No. We can not leave." Beila said with a slight scowl. "I have heard you praise Molly Weasley's food for years. I will not leave until I taste it."

"But…"

"No." Bea cut in. She pointed one slender finger at Hermione as she slipped into her native Spanish. "I am going to try some of that food and you are going to be an adult and speak with him if the opportunity arises."

"But…"

Again Bea raised her finger threateningly. "I will be back."

Parker stepped up behind Hermione as Beila moved away. "What was that about?"

Hermione looked at him over her left shoulder. "Nothing. Just a little disagreement we've been having."

"I hope it's nothing serious."

"No." Hermione turned fully to face him. "It's nothing. Really. I promise. Now, tell me, what is Taymyr like?"

"How did you know we were in Taymyr?"

"It's been my job to finish all the necessary paper work to get Amadeus legally back in the country."

"I see." Parker nodded. "Well, it was cold. Absolutely glacial. It was so bloody frigid I thought my bits would freeze off." Parker lowered his head, smiled seductively and lifted his eyes to hers. "The only thing that kept me warm at night was thoughts of you."

"Parker," Hermione's face darkened to a deep scarlet. "That was entirely too wicked of you. What if someone had heard?"

"Let them hear. I don't mind."

"But I do. These are my friends and family."

"You worry too much."

"You don't worry enough."

"You worry enough for the both of us."

Hermione rolled her eyes. "That sounds like something Ron would say."

"Ron's a smart man."

Hermione's lips twitched irritably to the side. "That's an interesting name he picked. Blake Kinley. Did you know?"

"Nope. I had no idea. I was completely in the dark. Ron has been surprisingly tightlipped on the subject, no matter how I coaxed. But I think it's rather enchanting. Blake Kinley Weasley. It has a pleasant ring to it, don't you think?"

"I'll withhold my verdict a little longer."

"Well," Parker shrugged. "It scarcely matters anymore. Little Blake is well and thoroughly named now. No going back."

"I suppose you're right." Hermione watched Ron move through the crowd talking to his friends and family, laughing and bouncing the baby lightly on his hip. She hated to admit it, but he looked good. The robes he was wearing were impeccably chosen and were just the right shade of blue and were tailored perfectly. He would be at home in the most grand of ballrooms, and yet looked completely natural with the black haired child resting on his hip.

"Parker." She forced herself to turn away from Ron. "There's something I've been wanting to know, but you see I didn't feel comfortable asking the Weasleys and I thought perhaps you would know the answer and so…"

"Hermione," Fred swooped out of nowhere and wrapped his arm around her neck in a painful hug. "Fancy meeting you here."

"Yes," she wrestled his arm off over her head. "I'm sure it is."

"It's wonderful of you to come around. I was afraid the sight of Ron might have sent you scurrying."

"Ginny threatened to hex me if it did."

"Bravo for her. And bravo to you for bringing such an attractive friend with you. You'll introduce a bloke wont you?"

"No." Hermione said evenly. "That's not going to happen." She pointed her finger in his face. "You stay away from her. I mean it."

"Hermione," Fred gasped and clutched dramatically at his chest. "If I didn't know any better I would actually believe that you don't trust me or something."

"That's funny, because I don't."

"And why might I ask?"

"Because Fred, you have a horrible reputation. I swear you get some perverse joy out of making women fall for you and as soon as they have you tire of them, move on, and leave them tending a broken heart. So no. I won't introduce you. And in fact I would prefer it if you left Beila alone."

"Beila?" Fred wiggled his brows. "That sounds exotic. Where did you say you met her?"

"Fred, I mean it. Leave her alone."

"Hermione," Fred shook his head with disappointment, "You can stop with the ruse. We both know you want me to meet her."

"And how did you come to that preposterous conclusion?"

"It's all a matter of psychology. You see I know that you know that by forbidding me to become acquainted with her I'll only want her more and so you used that as a ploy to encourage me to go and meet her."

"What! That is not what I meant to do! Fred stop! Come back here!" She tried to set after him when he turned and began to push his way through the crowd toward Beila only to have Parker catch her wrist and gently haul her back.

"Leave him go. Beila's a big girl. She can take care of herself."

"No," Hermione tried to tug her wrist free. "I have to stop him." She managed to wrench her hand out of his grasp. "You don't understand. Bea has been my savior for the past five years. I will not let Fred hurt her if I can prevent it."

"Hermione," Parker placed a hand on both of her shoulders and waited until she looked at him. "You're very close with this Bea?"

"I am."

"Then I am sure she can handle herself. You surround yourself with strong people. She'll be fine."

"But…"

"Just enjoy you're evening. Have some food and relax. This is a party after all."

"Yes, but…"

Parker sighed with exasperation. "Come on." He took her hand and towed her to where a table with refreshments had been set up. "What's your poison?"

"But I don't want…"

"I'm not giving you an option. One drink to calm you're nerves and help you relax. That's all."

"But I don't drink."

"Well, now's as good a time as any to start. Now, what will it be?"

"Are you trying to get me pissed so I'll agree to go out with you?"

Parker's eyes widened with intrigue. "I hadn't even thought of that. But no." He placed his right hand over his heart. "I give you my word that I will not broach the subject of dinner this evening. Well?"

Hermione caught Ron's eyes a moment over Parker's shoulder before they narrowed and he turned away. Hermione stiffened her jaw and forced her chin up a notch. She glanced down at the array of alcoholic beverages, both wizard and muggle, that had been provided, "I don't drink very often and so I have no idea what's good and what's not."

"Would you like me to fix you something?"

"All right." She nodded curtly. "But don't make it very strong. We have to work tomorrow."

"Sure thing."

Parker returned to her side several minutes later handing her a glass of bright blue liquid. "What is it?"

"Something I whipped together just now. Tell me what you think."

Hermione sipped tentatively and her eyes widened with surprise. "That's really good."

"I'm glad you like it."

"I do." She licked her lips as if to ensure that she tasted every last drop. "You'll have to show me how to make it sometime."

"I'll do that." He smiled, taking a sip from his own drink. "Are you hungry?"

"A little."

"Shall we?" He nodded his head toward the table laden with food. He placed his hand on the small of her back and began leading her through the crowd, oblivious to the blue eyes that narrowed and darkened at the sight. "You know," he said leaning forward and whispering in her ear, "Someday I am going to get you to agree to sit down and have a real meal with me."

"That promise didn't last very long."

"Sorry." He shrugged guiltily. "I forgot."

Hermione came to a sudden stop when she caught sight of Beila who was sitting with Fred on one of the benches she had helped Molly place in the garden. As she watched her beautiful friend playfully tossed her head and ran her fingers through her dark, curled tresses while Fred leaned forward to whisper something that must have been funny in her ear for it caused Beila to throw back her head and laugh. The tinkle of it rang through the garden and reached Hermione where she stood. She watched as Bea laid her hand gently on Fred's knee. There was a sudden tightening in her chest that Hermione did not recognize. Turning away she finished off her drink.

"You know what?" She held out the empty glass. "I think now would be an excellent time to teach me how to make that drink."

He took the cup uncertainly. "Are you alright?"

"Fine." Her smile was overly bright. "I'm just fine. A smidge thirsty is all."

"Hermione, I don't think…"

"Parker, I'm a big girl." She said, throwing his own words back at him. "I know what I'm doing."

"Alright." He said, his voice high with uncertainty. "I hope you don't regret this in the morning."

"The only thing I regret is coming here today."

Parker stepped up to the liquor table with Hermione at his side. "And you think this is going to help?"

"It can't hurt."

"Well if you're sure."

Hermione watched as Parker picked up one bottle and then another, explaining what each ingredient was and how much he added. She watched his large hands as they wrapped around the necks of different bottles and wondered at how powerful and strong they looked while seeming so gentle at the same time. "Parker," she said closing her eyes, almost dreading the question before she asked it, "What if I was the one to broach the subject of you taking me to dinner?"

He stopped with the lip of the last bottle arrested on the glass. "Are you accepting?"

She paused a moment to weigh the answer one last time. "Yes." She nodded. "I think I am."

"What made you change your mind?"

"Honestly, I have no idea. I reckon I'm tired of being alone and you're sweet, kind, charming, rather good looking."

"Stop it. You're embarrassing me."

"And most importantly, you want me."Parker sobered instantly. Hermione struggled to keep the smile on her lips. "I'm willing to give it a try if you are."

Parker leaned in as he handed her her drink and pressed a lingering kiss to her cheek. He brushed a tendril of hair out of her eyes as he pulled back and sighed with relief at the sight of a natural smile on her lips. "I'm willing. Dinner? "

"Yes." She nodded.

"When?"

"Friday?"

"No good. Unfortunately I have to head home to Scotland on Friday. What about Thursday?"

"Alright." She nodded. "Thursday."

"Seven?"

"Six thirty."

"Six thirty." He agreed. "Why don't you find us somewhere to sit and I'll get us something to eat. What would you like?"

"Anything. I love Mrs Weasley's cooking."

Hermione watched Parker's back as he maneuvered his way through the crowd to the table laden with food and the smile she had been wearing disappeared from her face. Now that he wasn't standing right next to her, looking down at her with that charming smile of his, she didn't feel so sure about her decision to join him for dinner.

"Hermione dear." The young girl turned at the sound of Molly Weasley's voice. "I'm so glad that you could come."The older woman drew the younger into a tight embrace about the shoulders, hugging her close before pulling back and holding Hermione's face gently between her hands. "I'm so sorry I didn't have a chance to talk to you earlier, but there wasn't time with trying to get this all in place."

"It's alright. I understand."

"Thank you for your help. You're such a sweet girl. I almost felt guilty for setting you to work straight away."

"No, no. It was my pleasure, really."

"Just the same. I've seen too little of you, dear, I wouldn't have felt so guilty if you stopped by more often. What have you been doing with yourself?"

"Keeping busy at work and trying to find a place to live."

"You promised you would come and see me."

"I did and I will. It's just been terribly hectic at work as of late."

"Hmm." Molly's lips pursed slightly. "I understand the importance of work, dear, believe me I do. But one needs to make time for one's self as well."

"I'll keep that in mind."

"See that you do. Ginny tells me that you have a friend staying with you at the moment. Beila? From Spain?"

"Yes," Hermione nodded. "That's right. She arrived Thursday evening actually. Took me completely by surprise. I had no idea she was planning on coming."

"And when does she leave?"

"She takes a portkey home tomorrow."

"Then where is she? I would like to meet her."

"Actually,' Hermione frowned, "She's currently being seduced by your son." She pointed a finger over Molly's shoulder to where Fred and Beila were still tucked away together, their heads tilted close to one another."

Molly turned to glance over her shoulder. "You don't sound very thrilled." She observed.

"Should I be? No offence Mrs Weasley, but Fred isn't exactly known for his splendid record with women. I don't want him hurting her."

"You say she goes back to Spain tomorrow?"

"Yes."

"Then why worry about a little harmless flirtation today? As soon as she is out of Fred's sight he'll forget about her and that will be the end of it."

"Surely you can't approve of the way he treats women." Hermione said with disbelief.

"Of course I don't. But I've tried reasoning with him, yelling at him, nagging him and making him feel guilty. Nothing seems to work and I don't know what else to do. All I can do now is hope that someday he meets the right girl and he grows out of this childish behavior."

"Well, I would still rather he not hurt my friends in the mean time."

"Did you tell him that?"

"I tried, but he didn't exactly listen to me. Obviously."

"Well, why don't you come to the house on Thursday and talk to him at family dinner."

"No," Hermione took a surprised step back. "I…I…I couldn't do that."

"Of course you can. Arthur and I were just talking the other day about how much we miss having you around and I know some of the others feel the same."

"Mrs Weasley, I…I can't."

"Hermione," Molly took her hand and drew her closer. "I know you think that I am unaware of the tension between you and Ronald. I'm not. And I would be lying if I didn't admit that when you were younger I had hoped that one day you and Ronald would marry and you would legally be my daughter. Just because things didn't work out the way that I had hopped doesn't mean that I don't still think of you as a daughter and it hurts me when you don't come around and see me like my other children do. Now you are still a part of my family and you are going to come to the Burrow on Thursday night and have dinner with the family. That is not a request."

"But I can't." Hermione said urgently, "I have plans on Thursday night."

Molly crossed her arms over her ample bosom. "And what, pray tell, are they?"

"I'm having dinner with Parker Gale."

"I thought that was him I saw you talking with. That's fine. He can join us as well."

"What? No. I mean, what?"

"Bring him with. He doesn't come around nearly enough anymore either. Parker's family lives up in the highlands of Scotland and while he was in training to be an Auror with Ron he couldn't make the trip home to see them very often so he would come and have dinner with us. He's a very nice boy. I approve."

"Er…thank you." She said uneasily.

"So there will be no more discussion. You and Parker will join us on Thursday at seven o'clock, and that is that. Now, I must be off. There are other guests that I must attend to. Oh, and Hermione, that was a very lovely dress you picked out for Blake. It was very sweet of you." And without stopping to hear her response Molly bustled away, greeting guest as she went.

"Here," Parker returned to Hermione's side and handed her a plate piled with a selection of different foods. "What are you looking at?"

"Are you afraid of Molly Weasley?"

"Only when she gets angry. I've seen her tear into her children and I don't wish to have the same done to me."

"That's me as well." She sighed heavily. "I guess that means we'll be having dinner here on Thursday."

"Pardon?"

"Mrs Weasley just cornered me and insisted that we join the family for dinner."

"Here?"

"Where else?"

Parker stared down at her for several minutes, his expression blank before a sort of gleam crept into his eyes. "Are you up for it?"

Hermione captured the corner of her bottom lip between her teeth and worried it slightly. "I don't think we really have a choice."