LADY MALFOY
Disclaimer: Harry Potter and everything related belongs to J. K. Rowling. And the places I mention, in the story do not belong to me.
Author's note: First of all, I want to thank Pheonix Soar for beta-ing the chapter and so fast especially considering that it is the biggest chapter in the story so far.
When I started this chapter, I intended to briefly write about wedding preparations in the Weasley and Malfoy household and also include Harriet and Draco moments. But later, I decided to write the details when I recently saw the movie 'Father of the Bride'. This is now a two-part chapter. I will post the second part, which is complete, very soon.
Also, I want to say I am not a Christian, but I have incredible respect for all religions. There are parts in the chapter that refer to Christianity. If I made any mistakes in writing those, please forgive me, for it is nothing but my ignorance. Most of it was from net research.
Enough of my rambling, you can read now *I am giving a sheepish smile here*
Warnings: AU NON-MAGIC . Harry is a female. You will find swear words but quite seldom. I will add furthur warnings as story progresses.
Chapter 8: Preparations
After the Weasleys left, Alexandra summoned Francis, their butler.
"Summon all the servants immediately, I have an announcement to make," Alexandra ordered, her voice bubbling with excitement.
"Yes, Madam."
Five minutes later, all the servants in the Malfoy household were gathered in the sitting room before Alexandra.
"Master Draco's wedding has been arranged with Miss Harriet Potter of the Weasley family," Alexandra declared happily.
"Oh, how marvellous!", "Oh my!" exclaimed the maids excitedly while the men gave small smiles.
"Now, the wedding is to be held in five weeks. The exact date hasn't been decided yet. The wedding breakfast will be held at Malfoy Manor. We do not have much time to complete the arrangements," Alexandra said, glancing between the servants.
"Francis, I want you to check all the rooms in the manor and make a list of repairs and repainting and such that needs to be done."
"Certainly, Madam."
"Of course, the Master suite will undergo complete refurbishment. As per tradition, Master Draco will be announced the Lord of the family after the wedding. He and his new bride will occupy the suite from then on.
"Then the rooms must be cleaned properly. Also make sure that the guest rooms are sufficiently provided for," she said to Nola and Madeleine.
"Tom, would you be able to handle the cooking for the wedding breakfast with just Penny and Madeleine's assistance?" Alexandra enquired the cook.
"That would depend on the number of guests attending, Madam," Tom replied politely.
"Well, the Weasleys will be sending the guest list in a few days. It would be better if we hire a temporary help, nonetheless. Find one who could help with the cooking," she ordered. "As for the menu, I will decide that later."
"Francis, put an order to supply wine for around 200 people. Tell Aberforth that I want the best wine there is," Alexandra said.
"Very well, Madam."
"Abraham, I want the gardens to be in perfect condition for the wedding. I also want the ballroom, the foyer and the Master suite decorated with white and yellow roses and peonies. Find out who can supply them for us," she said to the gardener.
"Yes, Madam" Abraham nodded.
"Landen, I want you to summon Peter Samuels, the decorator, tomorrow morning," Alexandra commanded the footman.
"Yes, Madam."
"Now, the most important thing is that the news of Master Draco's wedding should not go beyond the walls of the Manor until I say so," Alexandra said, a warning in her tone. "The wedding invitations will be sent soon enough. Until then, it should not reach outside ears."
"For the tasks I have given you, just tell the people that the arrangements are for the ball I am throwing. Understood?" she added.
They all nodded solemnly.
"Good. You can leave now."
After lunch, Arthur decided to pay a visit to Mr. Dumbledore, who was a family friend and a lawyer. Molly wanted to start with the wedding arrangements immediately, but Arthur convinced her to wait until he had talked to their lawyer. Again, the children were asked to keep quiet about the matter.
In the lawyer's office, Arthur relayed to Mr. Dumbledore everything that had transpired in the last month, starting with Petunia's visit, Malfoy's proposal, the upcoming nuptials and, at last, Harriet's desire.
After reading the documents that Petunia had left and much deliberation on his part, Mr. Dumbledore agreed that it would better to deal with the transfer before news of the wedding had spread. Dumbledore suggested that they visit the Potter's property first. So, Arthur and Albus set out to Wales by train the next morning.
According to the documents, the Potters owned a cotton factory in the town of Godric Hollow, Wales. Mr. Dedalus Diggle, whose family had worked with the Potters for centuries, ran it in the absence of the owner.
Mr. Diggle was startled when Arthur said that they wanted to see the property on behalf of Miss Potter. He refused to accept any of their explanations, saying that the Dursleys had informed him of Miss Potter's death seven years ago. He did not believe Arthur until he showed him the document that said the property belonged to Miss Potter along with a family picture of the Weasleys and Harriet taken on Bill's wedding two years ago.
"Other than Lord Potter's black hair, Miss Potter looks exactly like her mother," Mr. Diggle commented, peering closely at the picture.
After expressing a few choice words for the Dursleys' lies and actions towards Miss Potter, he told them how he and the workers had mourned the end of the Potter family. He said that since the Dursleys were the only living relatives of Miss Potter, they had inherited the factory. He also informed them that Mr. Vernon Dursley visited the factory quarterly to check the accounts and collect the profits since the Potters' demise.
Mr. Diggle was an affable man who was more than happy to show Arthur and Mr. Dumbledore around the factory. He was exuberant at the news of Miss Potter's wedding.
After much thought, Arthur decided not to sell the factory. Instead of obtaining money at once, he thought quarterly profits would be more beneficial.
'We still have the money that Mrs. Dursley gave, which would be enough to clear at least part of the debt and pay for the wedding expenses,' Arthur thought.
Mr. Dumbledore whole-heartedly agreed with the sentiment.
They returned to Wiltshire the same night.
The next afternoon, Mr. Dumbledore visited the Burrow for lunch. Since he was the only outsider who had the knowledge of Harriet's marriage, Molly was at ruptures as she discussed the various wedding plans with him.
After lunch, at Arthur's silent signal, everyone dispersed, leaving Harriet alone with Mr. Dumbledore. Ever since she had accepted the Zabini's plan, Harriet had been foreboding this meeting.
Though the Weasleys and the Dumbledores had shared years of friendship, Albus Dumbledore shared a special bond with Harriet instead of the other Weasley children. He was also the uncle of Mrs. Minerva McGonagall, her governess who had been living with him since her husband's demise. It was through her that Harriet had first met Albus Dumbledore. He was an elderly, wise man with a pleasant personality.
When the Weasleys had adopted Harriet, they had quickly learnt that she was illiterate, for the Dursleys had never hired a governess for her or taught her themselves.
Hearing that, Mrs. McGonagall had grown angry and offered to teach Harriet extra hours at her home during her spare time until she was on the same level as other girls. So, Harriet had visited her house everyday for tutoring. During those visits, Harriet and Albus had got along famously. Albus often discussed his legal cases with her, occasionally asking her opinion. Though Mrs. McGonagall was her governess, Mr. Dumbledore became her mentor for he educated her on the ways of world, learning he had acquired on different journeys during his youth and such. Even after her education was finished, she visited their house regularly.
Albus also had an uncanny ability to detect lies or when people did not tell the entire truth. That was what made him an excellent lawyer. Harriet often wondered if it was a magical gift, but always dismissed the thought immediately.
"Congratulations on your nuptials, Harry," Albus said to her.
"Thank you, sir," Harriet said with a small smile.
Albus sat, gesturing Harry to sit in the chair across him in the living room.
"Arthur informed me of your intentions, Harry. He is still reluctant to accept your gift and hopes that I can convince you to withdraw your decision," Albus told her.
"But he agreed," Harriet exclaimed with slight desperation.
"Has he informed you of what we found out about your birth parents' property?" Albus asked instead after a pause.
"He wanted to, but I told him that I had no interest in knowing," Harriet sighed. "They belong to the Weasleys now."
"But don't you want to know about your parents? Aren't you curious as to what they left you?" Albus enquired.
Moments passed in silence with Albus waiting expectantly for a reply. 'I forgot how patient he can be,' Harriet thought irritably.
"I would like to believe that they were honourable people, and I want nothing to do with the inheritance that made my relatives greedy to such an extent that they abandoned me," Harriet said grudgingly
"Is that why you want to transfer your inheritance to the Weasleys?" Albus asked calmly.
She stared at his blank face before answering, "No, I thought that the money and property would benefit the Weasleys."
"Nonetheless, I think you should be informed of it," Albus said firmly.
"We found out that the Potters' owned a large house in Godric Hollow that had been in the family for centuries. After your much-publicized so-called disappearance, the Dursleys sold the house. But they still owned the Potter's cotton factory in Wales when they returned the inheritance to you. The factory makes fairly good profits," he told her.
"I believe that if and when you transfer the property to the Weasleys, they will receive a considerable income quarterly if Arthur doesn't sell it," he added.
He stayed silent as he stared off into the distance while Harriet sat uncomfortably.
Turning around, Albus put his elbows on his knees and crossed his fingers together and gazed intently at her face with his piercing blue eyes.
'I can never lie to him when he looks at me like that,' Harriet thought anxiously. All she wanted to do was run out of the room before she could blurt out the whole truth to him.
"Arthur also informed me of young Mr. Malfoy's refusal to accept either dowry or your inheritance. That is mighty noble of him. He has sufficiently astounded us with his announcement. Especially considering the Malfoy's policy of not losing an opportunity to add to their wealth."
She stared blankly at him.
"It would be unfair of me to judge the young man without knowing him personally and just based on the characters of his ancestors. He might have a completely different set of morals and ideals compared to that of his forefathers," he said thoughtfully, leaning back.
"But you are not hiding anything from the others, are you, Harry?" Albus asked, peering at her again through his spectacles.
"Of course not," she denied and, with a nervous smile, she added, "What could I possibly have to hide from my family?"
"I see," Albus said.
'I hope you don't' Harriet thought in panic.
"Harry, are you happy with this union?" Albus asked her seriously.
"Yes," Harriet said immediately. "Why do you ask?"
"It is just that I detect a hint of sadness in your eyes," he said bluntly.
She stared back at him before slowly answering, "After living ten years with the Dursleys, I found a secure place with a loving family in the Burrow. I am just sad that that will not be the case after the wedding."
"And there is no other reason?" he prodded her.
"No."
Albus sighed heavily before standing.
"Then I wish you eternal happiness with both maternal and material prosperity in your marriage," Albus said, smiling at Harriet who stood, too.
Managing a small smile, Harriet nodded once.
"Should I inform Arthur that you have no intention of changing your decision?" Albus asked finally.
"Please do," Harriet said intently.
Before leaving, Dumbledore turned and said, "You believe right."
When Harriet looked puzzled, he clarified, "From what we found out, James and Lily Potter was a handsome couple. They were honourable people, highly respected and admired by the people who knew them."
"Thank you, sir," Harriet said gratefully.
"How are the wedding arrangements coming along, Grandmother?" Draco asked Alexandra, who was writing on the desk in her rooms.
"Splendidly!" Alexandra replied. "I am making the guest list now."
"Are we inviting Lucius and Narcissa?" Draco asked with a blank look.
Alexandra stared thoughtfully at Draco before answering slowly, "I do not want to deprived them of participating in their only son's wedding."
Draco snorted in disgust.
Alexandra shook her head, "Their absence will certainly be noticed if they do not attend. I do not want to give people anything negative to speculate about the family than they already have."
"But don't you think that they will try to sabotage the wedding when they find out? You know how much Father despises the Weasleys," Draco argued.
"Ah, but I will make sure that they receive the invitation at the last minute, leaving them only enough time to journey here to attend the wedding," Alexandra said, smirking smugly.
'Even if Lucius found out about the wedding before he receives the invitation, he cannot step into Wiltshire without Grandmother's permission. Perfect,' Draco thought, smirking back in satisfaction.
"You are a genius," Draco complimented her.
Five days after Mr. Dumbledore's visit to the Burrow, Arthur received a letter from him informing that the necessary documents were ready and that he and Harriet should come to his office to sign the papers.
When Arthur and Harriet arrived at Mr. Dumbledore's office, he, along with Policeman Sturgis Podmore, who was to be witness, was waiting for them.
Arthur wore a troubled expression throughout the journey and his expression did not change even when Dumbledore passed the documents to Harriet.
Reading them carefully, a habit that had been engraved into her by Albus himself, Harriet picked up the quill.
But before Harriet could sign the documents, Arthur stopped her and asked once again, "Are you sure this is what you want to do, Harry?"
"I am absolutely sure, Father," Harriet said with a reassuring smile.
Once the papers were signed, Mr. Dumbledore said that the property would legally become the Weasleys' in a few days.
The moment they returned to the Burrow, Molly jumped up and started rapidly speaking about the tasks that needed to be done while Arthur and Harriet watched her in amusement. They knew that it took an immense amount of self-control on her part not to start the wedding arrangements immediately ever since they had returned from Malfoy Manor. She had satisfied herself with making the list of tasks.
The first order of business was booking the church, so, that late afternoon, Arthur took off to Chippenham. When Arthur returned that night, he informed the family that with the help of Mr. Doge, he had been able to book the church for the wedding on the 24th of October. Mr. Elphias Doge was the Parish clerk of St. Nicolas and also a good friend of Arthur Weasley. Arthur also said that on his way to work tomorrow, he would apply for the wedding licence.
Molly hired a maid the next day. She needed help with the chores, especially since she had forbidden Harriet to help. Also, to Molly's annoyance, Ginny started leaving the house every morning to visit her friends, refusing to do any work.
Molly also forbade Harriet from leaving the house alone. Now, whenever Harriet went outside, one of her brothers escorted her. Molly warned Harriet that she would not be allowed outside when the Banns were read.
Most of the work fell on her brothers. Ron conveniently took the job of being Harriet's escort. But Harriet knew that the real reason was that when she went outside, it was to meet Hermione.
Molly also forbade Harriet from working in their vegetable garden, saying that the weather would be bad for her skin.
After breakfast the next morning, Arthur was making the guest list with Molly's assistance while the children, except Ginny, watched.
"Mrs. Weasley," Arthur said, interrupting Molly as she rattled off the names. "Dearest, St. Nicolas accommodates only a hundred and fifty people. That means we can invite no more than seventy-five. Keep that in mind, will you?"
"Seventy five!" Molly exclaimed. "But Arthur, our family alone occupies nine seats without including Harriet and Ginny. We won't be able to invite anyone other than close friends and family."
"We won't be able to invite any neighbours. We will make so many people angry," Molly moaned.
"Dear, how about we throw a celebration at the Burrow for them when Harry and Mr. Malfoy visit for the first time after marriage? That should satisfy them," Arthur assured her.
Molly's face immediately brightened at the idea.
"Oh, that will be wonderful, Mr. Weasley," Molly cried happily.
"Your four sisters and their families make twenty more. My two brothers and their families make twelve. Martha and her children would make ten," Molly dictated to him, returning to the task at hand.
"Mr. Dumbledore, Mrs. Gonagall, Madam Pomfrey, Mr. Doge..." so on it went.
"I am including Mr. Diggle. I think at least one person who knew Harriet's parents should be in attendance," Arthur said.
Molly nodded, agreeing.
"What about the Dursleys? Should we invite them too?" Molly asked.
"No!" came the shout from Harriet before Arthur could say anything.
"Harry?"
"No, absolutely not. I haven't forgiven them yet to include them in my wedding," Harriet said firmly.
"But, they are remorseful. They apologised…" Molly trailed off, noticing the hard look on Harriet's face.
"Mother, what they did is unforgivable. I haven't forgotten the days when they treated me like a slave, abusing me physically and emotionally. I don't want their presence in my wedding at all," she replied with finality.
"Besides, don't you think that people would wonder why you adopted me when I have blood relatives? My in-laws will surely want to know about them."
"I think Harry is right, Mrs. Weasley," Arthur agreed. He didn't inform them that the Dursleys had declared Harriet as dead after abandoning her. He knew Lucius and his wife, at least, would cause trouble because of it.
"Yes, Mother, I didn't like them, either," Ron said, nodding fervently.
"All right, dear," Molly sighed.
"Thank you."
When they finished the list, Molly asked, "Mr. Weasley, when do you think we should send out invitations? Bill, Charlie and Percy must be informed immediately though. They will want to know about their sister's wedding, I should think."
"Yes, that would also give them enough time to get leave from work," Arthur agreed. "I should talk to Lady Malfoy before sending the invitations."
"Now, Harry, what have you decided about bride's maid?" Molly enquired turning to Harriet
"Mother, would it be all right if I asked Hermione to be my chief maid-of-honour and Ginny as maid-of-honour?" Harriet asked hesitantly.
Worried that they would take offence, she quickly added, "Hermione is my best friend and I want to involve her in the wedding. Besides, she and I spend so much time together. She would be perfect as my escort once the Banns are read."
"Yes, you are right. And I can have Ginny with me," She accepted with a smile. "I think little Isabella would be perfect as a flower girl."
Late that afternoon, Harriet sat under the willow tree near her house, staring pensively at the ripples in the water when Hermione approached her.
"Hello, Harry," Hermione said as she settled beside her.
Harriet smiled in greeting.
"You have been avoiding me," Hermione stated after a moment's pause.
"Of course not," Harriet lied immediately. It was true that Harriet was avoiding Hermione; or more her inquisition since Malfoy's proposal. But she had known it would only be a little while before she was cornered.
"In fact, I was going to visit you tomorrow." She had to ask Hermione to be her maid-of-honour.
Hermione narrowed her eyes at her, not at all believing her.
"I understand why you didn't tell the Weasleys about Mr. Malfoy, but why didn't you tell me?" Hermione asked, a hint of hurt in her tone.
"Because I never imagined him as my possible suitor, Hermione," Harriet said with a nervous laugh.
"All right. Then why didn't you say that you were acquainted with him? You tell me everything?" Hermione accused her. "Wasn't he the one I saw you with, at Blaise's wedding?"
"Hermione, I…" Harriet trailed with a troubled expression before her gaze fell on two men walking in their direction.
She immediately stood up, insistently pulling Hermione with her whose back was turned to them.
Harriet internally sighed in relief. "Blaise, Mr. Malfoy." She curtsied along with Hermione, who had noticed them by now.
"How are you Harry, Miss Granger?" Blaise asked with a smile.
"We are quite well. Yourself?" Harriet asked in return glancing between the men.
"Wonderful!" Blaise answered while Draco gave a curt nod.
"Miss Granger, could you excuse us? My friend would like to speak with Harry," Blaise said before quickly adding with a smirk, "Do not worry. I will be their escort and make sure that they don't get up to anything naughty. Promise."
"Blaise!" Draco said, glaring at him. Harriet turned red in mortification.
"I hope I am doing the right thing by trusting you, Mr. Zabini," Hermione replied, playing along. She discretely winked at Harriet before walking back to the Burrow.
"What? I have to keep up with the tirade," Blaise said defensively to Draco, who was still glaring at him.
"See, by making her leave, I made sure that the Weasleys know that Draco is visiting to meet you," he explained, seeing the sceptical look on Harriet's face.
"And I must say you both are doing a very terrible job," he added, shaking his head.
"Blaise Zabini," Draco said with a warning in his tone.
"What? I am telling the truth," Blaise started, ignoring his tone. "It has been one whole week since Mr. Weasley accepted your proposal and, since then, you haven't visited your fiancée once. Today, you are only visiting because your grandmother asked you to inquire Mr. Weasley about the Church and the guests."
"Do want them to suspect you even before marriage? Everyone believes you are enamoured with each other, Draco, which is why they believe you are marrying below your station and without asking for dowry or her inheritance. Your indifference will only raise suspicions," Blaise said in exasperation.
"According to them, it is not a typical arranged marriage. They believe it to be a love match. But your attitudes would most certainly cause them to question your intentions," he said, pointedly glancing between Draco and Harriet.
Hearing the phrase 'love match', Harriet winced while Draco visibly blanched.
Draco stared thoughtfully at the water before asking lazily, "What do you suggest we do then?"
"When I was engaged to Susan, I visited her almost everyday. You should at least try to visit Harriet thrice a week. Take walks so that no one can watch you closely. Try getting to know each other better," Blaise suggested. "I am sure that one meeting would not be enough to get to know one another well enough."
Harriet glanced at Draco who simply raised an eyebrow at Blaise.
Blaise snorted in disgust before saying irritably, "Draco, correct me if I am wrong. Your cousins are notoriously nosy. They would certainly inquire Harry about the development of your relationship."
"And, most importantly, you need to teach Harriet how to handle your parents. They certainly aren't going to accept the union silently," Blaise said insistently.
Draco stood pensively for a couple of moments before, "All right," he accepted. "But today I must speak with your parents, Miss Potter."
"I will visit again in two or three days," He said, looking questioningly at her.
"That will be fine," Harriet replied quickly.
Walking inside the Burrow, Draco and Blaise exchanged greeting with the Weasleys.
"I apologise, for Mr. Weasley is away on business," Molly told them.
"Oh," Draco said, frowning. "I came to discuss with him regarding the Church and the guests."
"Oh yes, Mr. Weasley said that he is going to visit Malfoy Manor tomorrow to inform you about them," Molly replied, serving him tea.
"That will be fine," Draco said with a curt nod.
"How is Lady Malfoy fairing?" Molly asked him
"She is well. She has the Manor in quite a flurry with wedding arrangements since your visit," he said.
"Oh, she is not stressing herself too much, is she?" Molly asked worriedly "I could send the boys to the Manor to assist you with the preparations. Shall I?"
"No, that is not necessary. Grandmother hired extra help for the wedding specially. But she wants to see through all the preparations herself. My cousin, Natalie, who lives nearby, has arrived and is making sure that Grandmother doesn't overwork herself," Draco told her.
They talked for few minutes before Draco and Blaise took their leave.
The next day after breakfast, Arthur went to Malfoy Manor. After exchanging greetings, Alexandra, Draco, Natalie and Arthur settled in the living room.
"My wife told me of your visit, Mr. Malfoy. I apologising for making you wait for the news," Arthur said solemnly.
"No harm done," Alexandra said dismissively. "Has the wedding date been fixed?"
"Yes, I have got St. Nicolas engaged for the 24th of October. The wedding is scheduled for 10 a.m." Arthur told them before asking, "Will that be convenient?"
"Twenty eight days from now. Perfect!" Alexandra replied and Draco nodded once.
"Then the Banns will be read this coming Sunday at St. Nicolas," Arthur added.
"24th falls on Wednesday, yes?" Alexandra asked
Arthur nodded.
"The wedding will start at ten and end by eleven, a few minutes here or there. That will leave the family and guests an hour to arrive at the Manor. We can start the wedding breakfast around twelve," Alexandra mused out loud before nodding, a satisfied smile on her face.
Arthur continued, "St. Nicolas seats a hundred and fifty people in total with seventy five on each side. But if you are expecting more guests then we could certainly place them on the bride's side."
"Seventy five seats are more than enough, Arthur. We plan to invite only family and close friends to the wedding. Though our business acquaintances will be invited for the wedding breakfast," Alexandra told him. "How many are you wanting to invite?"
"Around eighty people. Would you like the guest list as well?" Arthur asked pulling a piece of parchment from his coat pocket.
"Only eighty. The ballroom could comfortably accommodate two hundred people. The garden outside would add more space. Are you sure you don't want to invite more?" Alexandra asked, frowning
"Yes," Arthur said decisively, handing her the parchment.
"Very well."
"When do you think we should send out invitations?" Arthur asked her.
"Two weeks before the wedding should be fine. We will both start sending invitations from the 10th. What do you say?" Alexandra said.
"10th is fine," Arthur nodded.
They talked of other wedding arrangements for a few more minutes.
Before taking leave, Arthur said hesitantly, "I feel awkward asking you this……and am afraid that you would take it as an insult … but …I must ask…Your son, he won't cause any problems at the wedding, would he?"
"He won't. Rest assured, Arthur," Alexandra said fiercely.
Arthur nodded in relief.
"I also came to invite you all to dinner at our house today evening. But if you have any prior engagements we could delay it to another night," Arthur said, glancing from Alexandra, Draco and Natalie.
"Well, today and tomorrow I have some business to attend to. But I will be able to come the day after tomorrow," Draco said.
"Then Arthur, we will come on that day," Alexandra accepted.
"Thank you. I must take leave now," Arthur said, standing.
Exchanging bows and curtsies one more time, Arthur left.
That afternoon, Harriet, escorted by Ron, arrived at the Granger's house. Both Mr and Mrs. Granger congratulated her on her upcoming nuptials. Mr. Granger even went on to say that he wished his daughter attracted the interests of some rich gentlemen like Mr. Malfoy, making Harriet uncomfortable and Ron angry.
Ron immediately left, saying that he would wait outside for her. Harriet watched him sympathetically as he disappeared outside before turning towards the stairs that lead to Hermione's room.
Arriving at her door, Harriet knocked. A minute later, Hermione opened the door.
"Harry, you did not come alone, did you?" Hermione asked, pulling Harriet inside.
"No, Ron has become my escort. He is waiting outside," Harriet replied. "Mother said that this week is the last that I will able allowed outside the house."
"The Banns?"
Harriet nodded at her accurate guess.
"So, tell me, how are the arrangements coming along?" Hermione asked, settling on her bed with Harriet.
"They are coming along just fine. Mother wouldn't let me touch anything, though," Harriet said in exasperation.
"But, of course" Hermione rolled her eyes. "You are the bride, Harry. Just sit back and be pampered."
"Anyhow, we didn't finish yesterday's conversation," Hermione said, looking sternly at Harriet.
"Hermione, I didn't know I was doing the right thing by talking to Mr. Malfoy. I sometimes felt like I was betraying everyone by speaking to him, but I hardly could ignore him when Blaise was introducing him and, later, involving us in talks," Harriet said irritably.
"So, Blaise played the matchmaker, huh?" Hermione said, staring into space.
"Yes, now will you stop speculating about it and listen to what I have come to say?" Harriet said, knowing fully well that Hermione would start suspecting something if not diverted immediately.
"Yes, fine. Do you need any help?" Hermione asked, coming out of her stupor.
"Yes, as a matter of fact, I do. Hermione Jean Granger, would you do me the honour of being my maid-of-honour?" Harriet asked formally with a smile.
"Of course. I would love to," Hermione said, wide-eyed and then frowned. "But don't you want Ginny as your maid-of-honour?"
"Yes, she will be a maid-of-honour, but I want you to be the chief," Harriet said. "Hermione, you are my best friend. I want to involve all the people I love in my wedding."
"Oh Harry, I am going to miss you so much," Hermione said, teary-eyed, pulling her into an embrace.
"Well, then we shouldn't waste a single moment, should we?" Harriet replied, pulling away.
"Absolutely. Oh, there is so much to do. Your wedding dress, ornaments, flowers and such," Hermione said eagerly before adding with distaste, "Fleur would want to dress you up, I presume."
"Mother and she would certainly fight for it. And I seriously advise you not to get involved. Between Mother and a pregnant Fleur, you will be crushed," Harriet warned her.
"Oh my."
"Anyhow, Mother wants to take us to town for shopping tomorrow. You will be able come, yes?"
Hermione nodded.
"Along with material, Mother wants pick up some pictures of designs. She wants the dresses to be perfect. She wants them to rival what Mr. Malfoy's cousins and aunts would be wearing," Harriet told her.
"Madam Malkin is fairly good seamstress. I hope she can manage whatever design Mrs. Weasley selects," Hermione commented.
The next day, Molly took Harriet, Hermione and Ginny to Calne, the nearby town where they usually did their shopping. When they arrived at the clothes stores they frequented, Molly asked to be shown pictures of different bride gowns. It took more than an hour for every one to agree on one dress style. Despite Harriet's numerous insistences to not spend a lot on the dress, Molly chose a silk-satin dress material, saying that since the Malfoys aren't expect anything from them, the Weasleys should at least dress their bride in costly attire. Harriet shut her mouth, irritated. Next, Molly chose different silk materials for Harriet's other dresses. Choosing material for just Harry took more than two hours. While Harriet, Hermione and Molly were busy looking through the materials, Ginny stood at a distance with a sour look on her face.
Another two hours went by selecting dress material for Hermione, Ginny and Molly. When Ginny's turn came, Molly, seeing the price of dress she was mooning about, commented that Madam Malkin would do a much better job if they bought a similar coloured dress material and that it would last longer, which resulted in Ginny and Molly getting into an argument. Harriet had to break it off by convincing Molly to buy the dress, saying that Madam Malkin would have her hands full with making other dresses.
Their next stop was the jewellery store. Since Harriet wasn't fond of heavy jewellery, they chose simple but elegant pearl earrings along with a pearl necklace. Molly also bought pretty hair clips, a bracelet for Ginny made of semi precious gems (up on Harriet's insistence) and other accessories for the girls.
When they arrived back at Biddestone, Molly brought them to Madam Malkin, the local seamstress. She squealed at the news of Harriet's wedding before launching into rapid discussions with Molly about the dresses. Before they left, Madam Malkin took measurements of Harriet, Hermione and Molly.
Molly looked sad as she watched Madam Malkin taking Harriet's measurement at the other corner of the room. Hermione, noticing her look, asked what was bothering her.
"I always wanted to make the wedding dress for Harriet and Ginny, but with so much to do, I could never find time to stitch one," Molly said miserably.
"Oh, Mrs. Weasley, you could always make a dress for Harry after the wedding. Maybe a gift for Christmas. Harry would surely love that," Hermione said encouragingly.
"Oh, that would be wonderful!" Molly cried, beaming at Hermione.
That evening, Molly insisted that Arthur and the boys also buy new clothes for the wedding.
The next day, Molly ordered Nancy to clean the living room, dining room and the front yard, saying that she wanted them gleaming when the Malfoys' arrived for dinner that evening. Molly busied herself in the kitchen that afternoon, cooking different dishes. When Harriet offered to help, she forbade her from entering the kitchen and then ordered to clean up and make herself pretty.
By 5 p.m., Molly had the entire family, along with Hermione, neatly dressed and waiting. The Malfoys arrived at half past.
After exchanging bows and curtsies, Lady Malfoy introduced the pretty blond haired woman who accompanied them.
"This is my niece, Mrs. Natalie Nott. She is Elizabeth's daughter," she told them.
"How do you do, Mrs. Nott?" Molly asked with a smile.
"I am quite well, thank you. I hope you are, too," Natalie said in a soft voice.
The Weasleys smiled graciously.
"The Notts live in Calne. But Natalie is staying in the Manor to help me with the wedding preparations," Alexandra told them.
"Mr. Malfoy told me about your son, Nicholas. How is he?" Harriet enquired politely.
"He is quite well," Natalie said smiling.
"You should have brought him with you," Molly said.
"Nicholas falls asleep around seven, having tired himself out playing all day," Natalie answered fondly.
Molly nodded in understanding.
"You haven't been introduced properly before, this is Miss Hermione Granger. We have been good friends since childhood. She is also my maid-of-honour," Harriet told the Malfoys.
"It is a pleasure to meet you, Lady Malfoy, Mrs. Nott, Mr. Malfoy," Hermione said, curtsying deeply.
"Ours as well," Lady Malfoy replied while Mrs. Nott curtsied and Draco bowed in return.
They talked about the wedding for a couple of minutes before Nancy announced that the dinner was served.
Alexandra insisted that Harriet and Draco sit on either side of her. She kept involving them in talk throughout the dinner.
"The food is quite delicious, Molly," Alexandra commented.
"Thank you," Molly said modestly.
"Mother is quite an accomplished cook. It is very difficult to say which one of her dishes is our favourite," Harriet added while other the Weasely children nodded in acquiescence. Pink tinted Molly's cheeks.
"Oh Molly, you cooked the dinner?" Alexandra asked curiously.
"Yes, though Nancy cooks, we insist that Mother cooks food for us," Harriet answered smiling, before Molly could open her mouth.
"Well then, I should agree with Miss Potter." Then, glancing at Harriet, Alexandra asked, "Do you cook?"
"Yes, Mother taught Ginny and I to cook, but I can never match up to her skills," Harriet replied nonchalantly.
Halfway through dinner, Alexandra suddenly asked, "Do you play, Miss Potter?"
Harriet looked startled at the abrupt question before answering, "Yes, occasionally."
"Well then, you and Draco could play us a duet sometime after the wedding," Alexandra said. "What do you say, Draco?"
Draco, who was quietly talking with the twins about their prank products, turned to Alexandra, who was watching him while Harriet stared intently at her plate.
"We will see, Grandmother," Draco replied after a moment.
"Well, that is vague. I was expecting a simple yes," Grandmother said frowning.
Instead of answering, Draco glanced at Harriet beside Alexandra, who was still blankly staring at her plate.
"Fine."
Alexandra beamed at him.
"Miss Granger, I have a favour to ask of you," Natalie said quietly to Hermione who was sitting beside her.
"Please," Hermione urged her to continue.
"You see, I am planning on presenting my new sister-in-law with a dress as a wedding gift since we own a textile company. And I was hoping if you could get her measurements for me. I would ask Miss Potter herself, but I want it to be a surprise," Natalie explained in hushed tones.
"Of course," Hermione said in understanding. "Madam Malkin is our local seamstress. She is working on our wedding clothes. I will be able to get Harriet's measurements from her. I will send it through a letter tomorrow."
"Thank you," Natalie said gratefully
"You are welcome."
After dinner, they retired to the living room once again where Nancy served them tea.
Before they could leave, Arthur and Molly quietly requested Alexandra to stay back for a minute.
"What is it, Arthur?" Alexandra asked curiously.
"Madam, I wanted to ask you about the wedding ring? Can you tell us what Mr. Malfoy would prefer?" Arthur asked.
"My grandson doesn't prefer ornaments. But he will be made to wear the Lordship ring of the family after marriage, so I think you should get a simple golden ring with no carving or stones," Alexandra advised thoughtfully.
"Thank you."
Eighteen days before the wedding, during Sunday Morning service in St. Nicolas, the Banns were announced as:
I publish the Banns of Marriage between Mr. Draco Lucius Malfoy of the Malfoy family and Miss Harriet Jane Potter of the Weasley family. If any of you know cause, or just impediment, as to why these two persons should not be joined together in holy Matrimony, ye are to declare it. This is the first time of asking.
The wedding party waited anxiously, hoping that no one would raise any objections though not as much as Harriet and Draco.
Since the Banns, Harriet was restricted to the house, which drove her crazy. She was an outdoor person. But Molly even restricted her from being in their yard, saying that the sunlight and air would be bad for her skin. With no work to occupy herself, Harriet found comfort in daily visits from Hermione who brought books with her.
Heeding Blaise's advice, Draco visited Harriet twice a week and requested her parents to take her on walks around the lakeshore near their house. That was one of the reasons she looked forward to his visits.
Hermione and Ron accompanied them though they kept their distance.
On one of those visits, Draco told her about his grandmother's plan regarding the invitation to his parents.
"That was quite clever of her," Harriet commented, laughing softly.
"Yes," he sighed with a frown.
Harriet watched him intently, hoping he would explain the reasons, but he didn't. She didn't press, either.
"No matter what steps we take, certain callous remarks by my parents towards you and your family are unavoidable. I believe your parents already expect that. Avoiding them would be the best solution, but unfortunately that is not possible. The only way is to not take anything they say to heart, which would be quite difficult, but…." Draco trailed off shrugging.
"My father will probably throw some nasty remarks and threats at you. Only way you can deal with him is to nod submissively, saying that you understand and accept his words."
"But you should be more careful around my mother. She will first test whether you are susceptible to her words. And when she realises you are not, she will try to overwhelm you and try to break you with her words. The only way to deal with her is to show her that you are not intimidated by her," Draco told her.
Harriet gave him a seriously disturbed look.
"Do not worry. Grandmother won't let them stay at the Manor longer than four or five days. They will not say anything in front of her or me. I am only giving you these warnings in case they manage to corner you in private," Draco said consolingly, having noticed her look.
Author's note: Does that answer your questions regarding Harriet's inheritance?
Molly and Arthur call each other by their first names only behind their bed chambers.
I read that Wednesday is believed to be best day for weddings by some people in those days. So I chose it.
For those of you who don't know, Banns was an announcement of upcoming wedding made in the Church or Registry Office for three consecutive Sundays before the wedding, in those times. In modern times, you hear the priest asking for objection just before the vows are exchanged.
In those days, the purpose of Banns was to enable anyone to raise any legal impediments to it so as to prevent marriages that are legally invalid. Impediments vary between legal jurisdictions, but would normally include a pre-existing marriage (having been neither dissolved nor annulled), a vow of celibacy, lack of consent, or the couple's being related within the prohibited degrees of kinship. This method gives a lot of time for people to raises any objections.
Also, once the Banns are read, the bride-to-be is not allowed out to protect her from outsiders.
Confused about Maid-of-honour?
Today's Maid-of-honour was then called Chief Maid-of-honour, who remained by Bride's side at all times till the end of the ceremony. Today's Bridesmaid was called Maid-of-honour.
About Ginny: There won't be any heart to heart between the sisters because Harriet can hardly tell her the truth about the marriage. Ginny will continue to be jealous of her.
Keep waiting for next update: There will be an emotional, heartening scene between Harriet and the Weasleys. Also, Lucius and Nacrissa will make any entry. Standing off between them and Draco and Alexandra.
And most important of all, PLEASE REVIEW PEOPLE REVIEW stating whether it was good, boring or anything. Questions and constructive criticisim are welcome too. THERE, THINK I HAVE PLEADED ENOUGH.