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: Every one please cheer for my beta Phoenix Soar who puts up with my annoying old self and saves you all from my terrible grammar. Kudos to her!!!
OH MY GOD!!!! You guys are most wonderful readers an author could ask for!!!! I am incredibly glad you like the story. Please accept my delighted curtsies for your awesome reviews!!!!
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 12: Dealing with satire
Harriet suddenly woke up from her deep slumber at the faint sound of knocking. Opening her eyes, she blurrily watched the bright sunrays, filtering through the ventilators, illuminating the ceiling. It took her sleep-muddled brain a moment to realize where she was. When she finally did, she quickly turned to the side to find Draco lying on the front with his face facing Harriet, snoring softly with his mouth slightly open, snugly cushioned between soft, fluffy pillows and blankets. 'For a Lord, you certainly sleep like a boy, Mr. Malfoy,' Harriet thought with a smile, staring at his rumpled state.
At another knock, Harriet urgently threw the covers off her body and walked out to the sitting room.
Opening the door, she came face to face with a maid dressed in a white and black dress gown.
"Yes?" Harriet asked politely, her voice croaky from sleep.
"Good Morning, Madam. I apologise for disturbing you, but Mrs. MacDougal wanted me to enquire if you will be joining them for breakfast," the middle-aged maid said.
Harriet eyes' widened at the word 'breakfast' and she swivelled her head around to look at the wall clock. Her eyes widened further at the time.
"Oh my, I didn't realize it was this late. Have all the others awakened?" Harriet enquired anxiously.
"Yes, Madam, they are waiting for you at the breakfast table," the woman told her.
Turning pink in embarrassment, "Please wait here for a minute," Harriet requested her before closing the door.
"Oh my, I can't believe I overslept!" Harriet exclaimed as she anxiously walked back to the bedroom.
"What do I do, now?" Harriet said, biting her lip nervously, absentmindedly looking around the room. 'You should clean up and change, perhaps. Quickly and join them,' her inner voice suggested sarcastically.
"Right!" Harriet said, running off to the bathroom. Refreshed, Harriet walked out of the bathroom and glanced at the watch. She panicked, noting that ten minutes had already passed. Rushing off to the dressing room, she pulled her clothes from her trunk, only to stare at them morbidly, 'No way can I dress all by myself.'
Grabbing her clothes, she walked back to the bedroom, "What do I do?" she repeated, pacing in front of the fireplace in agitation
"What is wrong?" Draco asked her from his still lying position on the bed, his voice thick from sleep.
"Oh good, you are awake!" Harriet exclaimed, relief clear in her tone. "You need to get up. Everyone is waiting at the breakfast table for us."
"Breakfast!" Draco said, sitting up. "What time is it?"
"Quarter past nine," Harriet answered.
"What? Why didn't you wake me earlier?" Draco asked, throwing the blankets away and getting out of bed.
"Because I woke up just now; or more precisely, a maid woke me up," Harriet admitted, biting her lower lip.
Harriet flushed at the incredulous look he threw at her. "I know, I know. I get up everyday by six. I can't believe I overslept. If my mother were here, she would be berating me quite loudly about my despicable manners," she said, anxiousness rolling off her in waves.
"Oh, what must your family think of me!" Harriet moaned, clutching her head in her heads.
"Mrs. Malfoy, calm down!" Draco ordered firmly.
When she had visibly pulled herself together, Draco asked her calmly, "You said maid?"
Remembering the maid who had been waiting for the past ten minutes or so, Harriet's eyes widened. "Oh yes, she is waiting outside. Should I let her in?" Harriet asked, worriedly.
"Yes."
"So sorry for making you wait. Please come in," Harriet said, opening the doors widely and rushing back in. In her distraction, Harriet failed to notice the astonished look the maid gave her as she followed her in.
Walking into the sitting room, the maid noticed Draco standing at the doorway of the bedroom. "Good morning, sir," she bowed.
"Mrs. Malfoy tells me about breakfast being served. Why is that we haven't be aroused earlier?" Draco drawled in his commanding tone.
Harriet frowned at his attitude.
"I am sorry, sir, but Lady Malfoy informed us not to disturb you early," she answered politely.
"I see," Draco drawled. "Inform the others not to wait for us and proceed with the breakfast. We will have it a little later. Also, bring in Henry and Nola."
"Yes, sir," she bowed and left.
"Why did you say that? Maybe we could still have hurried in dressing and joined them," Harriet said with a frown.
"No use. They know we are late," Draco said simply, walking into the bathroom.
Closing the door behind him, Draco thought with a deep frown, 'Maybe, we are counting on the impossible by expecting her to behave like a Lady.'
Outside, Harriet thought with an internal scowl, 'Of course it is not like you will lose anything. It is I who will get criticized!'
Not five minutes after she had left, the maid returned with another maid and a well-dressed male servant.
"Good morning, Madam," they chorused with a bow.
Though it was not, according to her opinion, Harriet returned their greeting nonetheless.
Draco returned to the sitting room to find Harriet and the servants waiting patiently for him.
"Mrs. Malfoy, this is Marie, our housekeeper," Draco said, gesturing to the maid who woken her. "This is Henry, my valet and this is Nola, your personal maid from today," he added, indicating the middle-aged male servant and another middle-aged woman respectively.
Harriet nodded with a smile.
"We will meet in half an hour," Draco told her, disappearing through another door inside the bedroom that she failed to notice last night. Henry followed him
"Mrs. Malfoy, would you like me to help you dress?" Nola asked her politely while Marie busied herself with making the bed.
"Yes, thank you," Harriet said, moving into the dressing room.
"Is that the dress you would like to wear this morning?" Nola asked her, gesturing to the dress in Harriet hands.
Looking at it critically, Harriet said unsurely, "Maybe I should pick another one?"
"Let me!" Nola said before Harriet could bend down to select from her luggage. "It would be easier to select a dress if they are arranged in the wardrobe. Shall I?" Nola suggested.
Pulling a wooden box, which was beautifully carved on the top, from her trunk, Harriet said, "Yes, thank you."
When Nola pulled the cupboard doors open, Harriet noticed a pink coloured silk dress poking out. Frowning, "Are those Lady Malfoy's clothes?" she asked.
"No, Madam, they are yours," Nola answered.
Her frown deepened as Harriet walked closer to the wooden cabinets and noticed several dresses, one lovelier than the other. But before she could deny again, she noticed a note placed on the top cabinet.
Feeling curious, she took the note and opened it. It read,
Dear Harriet,
My wedding gift to my new granddaughter because a woman could never have enough dresses.
Alexandra
P.S. I expect you to address me as Grandmother when next I see you!
Harriet smiled at the note before turning to take a closer look at the clothes. Apart from a few cotton dresses, many of them were made of muslin, silk and satin. She stared, mesmerised, at the different but beautiful colour combinations, embroidery patterns and styles of the dresses. Harriet felt truly touched at the effort Alexandra had put in, making the collection of dresses for her. Feeling extremely gratified, Harriet decided to wear the lovely light blue coloured cotton dress from Alexandra's gift.
Dressed, she walked into the sitting room to find Draco waiting for her. Together they walked into the smaller dining room where the breakfast was waiting to be served.
Breakfast was a quiet affair. While Draco was lost in his thoughts, Harriet was anxious and a bit fearful of the reaction of Draco's family members about her lateness. Draco's nonchalant attitude wasn't helping her either.
After finishing the breakfast, Draco inquired Francis after his Grandmother.
"Madam has retired to her rooms after breakfast, sir. She informed me to tell you if you asked that she is resting merely because of tiredness, but otherwise she was quite well," Francis said.
Making a loud disapproving noise, Draco purposefully strode towards what Harriet assumed to Alexandra's rooms with her following behind, which she felt foolish doing. But she thought it was better to stick with him than to lose herself in the huge Manor or, worse yet, be cornered by Draco's parents.
Upon reaching the doors, Draco opened them silently and gracefully glided inside. Alexandra's rooms were decorated in a different colour scheme and with different furniture and ornaments, but looked equally grand, Harriet noted.
Walking into the bedroom whose doors were ajar, Draco silently stepped up to the headboard of the king-sized bed in which Alexandra was sleeping. Noticing the look of pain that fleetingly crossed across the Draco's face, Harriet edged herself between him and the bed.
Before Draco could open his mouth in outrage, Harriet bent down and gently placed her palm on Alexandra's forehead and took her wrist in her other hand.
After a minute, Harriet retracted her hands and turned to a bewildered and slightly angry looking Draco.
"She does not look flushed nor does she have a temperature. Her heartbeat is normal. That means she was telling the truth when she said she was just resting because of fatigue," Harriet told him quietly, her tone not without consideration and slight warmth. "You can stop worrying now."
Draco's lips thinned in irritation at her as he darted a look at Alexandra's face. True to Harriet's words, Alexandra looked completely relaxed.
Before he could question her action, "Perhaps we should leave and let her rest," Harriet suggested lightly.
"Fine!" Saying that, Draco stomped out of the room. Harriet's lips curved in a smile at his attitude as she followed him.
"How did you know to do that?" Draco asked, narrowing his eyes at her once they were outside the rooms.
The word 'common sense' was on the tip of her tongue, but she held herself because she knew he would feel offended if she said so.
She simply shrugged in return.
Returning to the foyer, Draco asked the passing maid about the whereabouts of the others. She informed him that the ladies had retired to the drawing room in the east wing after breakfast whereas the gentlemen to the billiard room and library.
Dismissing the maid, Draco turned to Harriet. "You should join them in the drawing room while I go talk to Sirius about you before he makes the mistake of spreading the news of his past friendship with your father, especially to my parents."
"Are you going to tell him about our agreement, too?" Harriet asked in concern.
"Of course not!" Draco hissed in outrage, throwing a disbelieving look at her. "I am only going to tell enough to keep him satisfied and make him agree to keep your past a secret."
"Oh."
Ringing the bell to call the butler, Draco said, "Remember what I said about my mother." At her anxious look, he added, "You will be fine as long as my aunts and cousins are nearby."
Harriet reluctantly nodded.
"Sir."
"Francis, escort Mrs. Malfoy to the drawing room in the east wing," Draco ordered him.
"Yes, sir," Turning to Harriet, he said, "Madam."
Throwing one last anxious look at Draco, Harriet followed the butler.
Draco felt slight pity for Harriet, but decided that it was necessary for her to learn to deal with his parents on her own and sooner the better.
Upon reaching the room, Francis went inside first to announce her arrival. Taking a deep breath, Harriet walked in with a smile on her face though her heart rate increased a little.
"Good morning," Harriet greeted them all, which they all except Narcissa returned with a smile or a verbal greeting. Walking up to her, Emily eagerly took her hand and led her to the sofa where she previously was sitting.
"I apologise for my lateness," Harriet said solemnly, her face red in embarrassment, glancing from one woman to another.
Elizabeth and Victoria laughed it off while Laura, Katie and Natalie shared knowing smiles. But before any one of them could open their mouth to dismiss the matter, Narcissa asked, "Haven't your Mother ever taught you, how rude it is for the Lady to sleep in late, especially when there are guests in the house to be served?" Her tone was cold and unforgiving.
Harriet winced in shame and humiliation.
Seeing the pale look on Harriet's face, "Oh, come now, Narcissa. It is quite understandable the reason for their lateness. These past few days must have been quite tiring, I should think. Besides, they would have been enjoying the late morning now had they been on their honeymoon and not cantering to the houseguests," Elizabeth said before facing Harriet again. "It is of no consequence, dear."
"But they are not on honeymoon!" Narcissa sniffed disdainfully at Harriet. "After all, as Lady Malfoy, she promised to do her duties efficiently just yesterday."
"You are right, Mother-in-law. I apologise for this morning. It won't happen again," Harriet said seriously, staring right at Narcissa.
Narcissa thinned her lips and looked like she wanted to pursue the issue, but refrained at the warning looks that both Elizabeth and Victoria were throwing at her.
After a moment's pause, "I thought we could entertain ourselves this morning by looking through the wedding gifts," Narcissa said with false cheerfulness.
"Oh yes!" Emily agreed enthusiastically.
"Maybe we should wait until Grandmother is awake. I am sure she would like to be part of it," Harriet said hesitantly, glancing at the women.
Narcissa raised a brow at Harriet addressing Alexandra as Grandmother.
"Mother-in-law lives in the Manor so she can see them anytime she wants, whereas Draco's aunts and cousins will be leaving this afternoon," Narcissa told her rudely.
"Oh. All right," Harriet nodded in agreement.
"I believe your family has brought the wedding gifts given by your side of family and friends with them yesterday," Narcissa continued icily.
"Yes."
"Well then, ask the butler to bring them along with the gifts given to the groom in here. We will look through those, too," Narcissa ordered her.
Harriet nodded, before asking, "Won't Mr. Malfoy want to see them too?"
"Draco doesn't indulge in such lady-like activities. Pray, don't tell me your father and brothers do?" Narcissa sneered in disgust
Harriet's eyes flared in anger, but she recollected herself quickly.
In the next ten minutes, the servants brought the wedding gifts to the drawing room. "Keep the bride and groom's gifts on opposite sides," Narcissa ordered the servants sharply.
After the last of the gifts had been brought, all the servants left except for a thin, young maid. She was to hand the gift to the ladies and then dispose of the wrappers.
"Good Lord!" Narcissa said overdramatically. "Will you look at them? These will not take more than a hour to look through even if we spend several minutes inspecting each of them," Narcissa tsked nastily, gesturing to Harriet's gifts which were really not even one fourth in number compared to Draco's gifts.
Narcissa faced Harriet with mock pity on her face. If Narcissa thought that would faze Harriet she was thoroughly mistaken because Harriet's returned her look with a raised eyebrow. Harriet had never been ashamed of the Weasleys' financial status. Having lived with the wealthier Dursleys, she had learnt the valuable lesson at a very early age that being wealthy did not make a person any nobler. And Narcissa was certainly proving her beliefs to be true.
Frustrated, Narcissa said, "Let's look through them first then!" to which Harriet replied with a nonchalant shrug.
Narcissa's estimation turned out to be right. During the hour spent on going through Harriet's gifts, Narcissa non-too-subtly criticised everything, from the price, the size to the design of each gift. Outwardly, Harriet gave no reaction and quietly made a list of the gift givers and the name of the gift so that she could send thank you notes to them later. But, inwardly, Harriet endured those remarks and comments with the patience that she had not needed since living with the Dursleys. From Draco's account of his mother, Harriet did not doubt that Narcissa's province on subtlety. Harriet credited Narcissa's lack of subtlety was mainly because she thought Harriet to be too common and ill-educated to comprehend her sophisticated, but ill remarks.
Elizabeth and Victoria, through their looks and subtle hints, tried their best to dissuade Narcissa's of her rude behaviour while Laura, Natalie and Emily tried to distract Harriet by complimenting one gift or another. Despite their attempts, it became clear to Harriet that none of them had any power or influence like that of Alexandra to rein Narcissa in.
Narcissa only grew more and more vexed over Harriet's lack of reaction while other women in the room grew annoyed at Narcissa's attitude.
"Well, these are gifts from relatives and acquaintances. Where are the gifts from your family? Or could they not afford anything after your trousseau?" Narcissa asked her cuttingly.
Purposefully ignoring Narcissa, Harriet turned to address the other women. "My family's gifts are stored in our rooms. I hope you will understand if I think them too personal to share," Harriet said boldly, without any hint of repent.
The others nodded in acceptance while Narcissa threw her an icy glare.
Next, Draco's gifts were gone through. This time, Narcissa threw indirect comments at Harriet's family's simpleton acquaintances by comparing their gifts with the expensive gifts of the groom. Harriet tuned her out and made a list of those gifts, too.
Noticing her inattention, Narcissa asked harshly, "What are you doing?"
"Making a list of the gifts received by my husband for him," Harriet said simply, putting an emphasis on the words 'my' and 'husband'.
"Are you foolish enough to think that Draco will have time to write and send out thank you notes to them?" Narcissa sniped.
"If he doesn't have time, then I will do it for him. I am sure his well-wishers would not mind receiving a thank you letter written by his wife on his behalf," Harriet answered with a sweet smile, again emphasising the words 'his' and 'wife'.
Elizabeth, Victoria and Katie hide their smiles by turning their heads and pretending to admire the gifts. Emily started coughing to conceal her laughter while Laura and Natalie openly smirked in amusement.
It was noon by the time they finished inspecting the gifts. Narcissa retired to her rooms to dress for lunch while the others decided to change into their travelling clothes afterwards. Apparently, Narcissa was one of those vain women who changed their dresses five times a day. Harriet internally sighed in relief at Narcissa's departure. This gave Harriet a chance to speak with the others freely.
"I know your plans have already been made, but can't you stay for a few days? I believe it would make Grandmother and Mr. Malfoy (Draco) very happy and I myself would love to get acquainted with you all much more closely," Harriet said earnestly, glancing between the women.
"Dear, if it weren't for making preparations for the London season, we would have certainly stayed longer," Elizabeth sighed.
"Oh," Harriet said, surprised. But noticing the lively Emily blushing shyly for the first time, Harriet immediately understood what Elizabeth meant. "That means we will soon be participating in Emily's wedding!" Harriet said looking delighted at the news.
Elizabeth nodded, laughing while Emily's blush deepened.
"What about you, Mrs. MacDougal?"
"Oh, call me Aunt Victoria, dear. With Mr. MacDougal and Peter busy with the Parliament session, I am responsible for presenting two of Mr. MacDougal's nieces to the court this season. While I am occupied with it, Katie is in charge of the household."
Morgan and Edgar were to return to the university after escorting the ladies to their residences.
"Mrs. Baddock, can't you stay at least?" Harriet requested her.
"Firstly, I believe I am saying this on all our behalf that you should start addressing us as Draco does. After all, you are part of the family," Laura said, looking questioningly at her. The others nodded in agreement.
Feeling gratified, Harriet nodded in acquiescence.
"Secondly, I must confess that Mr. Baddock cannot manage the household at all without me. That does leave me in disadvantage of not being able to visit the family and friends without him for more than a day, I am afraid. But he is kind enough to take me to visit them quite often. So, you can expect our visit this Christmas for sure, as I would detest to watch those pretty, young women by attending the balls without getting envious," Laura added with a wink.
Harriet nodded with an indulgent smile. They talked for some more time before the butler announced the lunch. They all departed, but not before exchanging promises to correspond regularly.
The gentlemen met them in the dining room along with Alexandra, who received them with a wide smile on her refreshed face. Remembering what Draco had told her that morning before they departed, Harriet glanced at Sirius who gave her a secretive smile in return, but did not call her attention specifically for which she was glad. He was to leave for London with the others that afternoon.
Despite her cheerful attitude, it was clear to Harriet that Alexandra was not at all pleased about their short visit. This reminded Harriet of how Molly felt every time Bill, Charlie and Percy left for their respective houses after their visits to The Burrow.
Edgar, Laura and Emily distracted everyone with their lively discussions throughout their lunch.
Their entire luggage was secured in the carriages by the time they finished having tea.
Draco felt peculiar after receiving comments like "You wife is sharp, Draco", "She is a keeper, Draco. Take good care of her", "I like her, Draco" etc from his aunts and cousins.
After receiving the last of 'Safe journey, Adieu,' s, they left. Harriet found herself alone with Alexandra and Draco in the foyer.
"Thank you, Grandmother. I wanted to say how deeply I appreciate your wonderful gifts," Harriet said, her voice indicating her utter sincerity and gratitude.
Alexandra smiled warmly at her in return while Draco watched Harriet calculatingly.
"Dear, why don't you change into a dress warmer and darker in colour? Draco will show you around the Manor and grounds," Alexandra suggested. "You wouldn't like being directed everywhere in your own home, I should think."
Harriet nodded in agreement.
Agreeing to her advice, Draco led Harriet back to their rooms.
Upon reaching there, Draco waited for her in the sitting room while Nola helped her dress. Once done, Harriet excused her.
After his relatives' remarks, Draco was more than eager to find out what had happened in the morning. He frowned when Nola left, but Harriet did not come out.
When he entered the bedroom, he found Harriet lying on the bed with her face stuffed into the pillows.
"Mrs. Malfoy?"
Hearing the call, Harriet sprang up and turned around to face him.
"Were you just screaming into the pillow?" Draco drawled his voice filled with incredulity and slight amusement.
Harriet coloured at being found. "No," she denied, avoiding eye contact though she knew it was of no use.
"Is it anything to do with this morning?" Draco questioned.
"How did you know?" Harriet asked sharply.
He raised an eyebrow at her tone and then he shrugged, "It is just something that my aunts were saying."
"Oh, did they say something bad?" Harriet asked, worriedly
"No, nothing of that sort," Draco denied. Despite her expectant look, he did not elaborate.
"Well, let us say that one morning was enough for your mother to prove what you said about her," Harriet sighed. She then recounted to him what had transpired in the drawing room that morning.
Expecting as much, Draco simply nodded. After a moment's pause, he said, "Shall we?"
Draco led her through different corridors, pausing frequently to show her some room or the other. In the broad daylight, Harriet could clearly see the stony, Gothic stature of the three-storey Manor with its polished marble floors, large curtained windows and heavy, intricately curved oak doors. Harriet's eyes widened when Draco told her that the whole of west wing on the first floor belonged to them. The long and wide corridors were decorated with colourful paintings, occasional chairs and ornate metal stands holding vases filled with sweet smelling flowers. The walls were fitted-up with gold painted metal candleholders. As far the rooms, many were lofty and artfully decorated in different styles and colour schemes. According to Draco, the porcelain, crystal and silver artefacts and ornate yet comfortable looking furniture adorning the rooms, had been collected by different family members over the decades. Harriet didn't miss the pride and smugness in his tone as he talked of them.
Harriet commended herself for not gaping foolishly as she took in the stately but handsome rooms, but her eyes gave away the absolute wonder she felt. Her head spun at the number of rooms and she felt pity for the servants who were hired to clean them regularly. In fact, Draco introduced her to couple of the servants on their tour who were cleaning the guest rooms that Draco's relatives had vacated that afternoon.
Next, Draco took her to the kitchen situated on the ground floor. The servants, it seemed, were relaxing with a cup of tea in the servants' hall beside the kitchen, having finished their tasks for the afternoon. When they saw Draco and Harriet enter, they immediately got to their feet and politely greeted them. Draco introduced each of them to Harriet who returned their greetings with a genial smile.
The only thought that occurred to her when she saw the huge kitchen with gleaming pots and pans hanging, the neatly kept working area, cooking place, etc, was that her mother would have absolutely loved cooking here.
Finally, they stepped into the grounds. At the first sight, Harriet fell absolutely in love with the beautiful gardens. She could not think of a single flowery plant or shrub that could not be found there. Despite that, of all, only the roses, daisies, maple and hydrangea were in bloom. Harriet could not help but admire them. A large intricately curved stone fountain was situated at the centre of the garden, giving away to different paths.
But before Harriet could step forward, something white jumped in front of her.
Thoroughly startled, Harriet stumbled back with a cry only to crash into Draco's firm chest.
"Peacock? You have a peacock?" Harriet exclaimed in shock, staring wide-eyed at the white peacock preening in front of them
Draco's eyes twinkled in amusement at her reaction.
"Yes. You aren't afraid of them, are you?" Draco asked Harriet teasingly, who still hadn't moved from her position.
Blushing, Harriet backed away from him. Noticing his amusement, "Of course not!" she huffed and to prove it, she slowly walked up to it and gently brushed her hand on its white feathers.
It preened further at the Harriet's caress.
"What's his name?" Harriet asked curiously, realizing that it was male.
When Draco didn't answer, Harriet looked up to him to find him frowning confusedly at her.
Understanding, "He doesn't have a name?" Harriet asked in astonishment.
"Why does he need one?" Draco retorted, arching his brow.
"Well, how do you refer to him?"
"Mrs. Malfoy, he is not a dog or cat or a horse that needs a name to be called. And he definitely doesn't play with people," Draco drawled sarcastically.
"Nonetheless, I think he should have a name. Oh you, poor thing. If you don't, then I will give him one," Harriet said firmly.
Draco stared strangely at her before shrugging unconcernedly.
After a tour around the gardens, Draco pointed to the woods some fifty yards in the north.
"We go stag-hunting during the summers when my cousins visit," Draco told her.
Smooth green pastures spread over several yards in the south (all belonging to the Malfoys) with fog-covered hills beyond from which a stream was flowing through the property towards the forest.
"Oh, you have a swing!" Harriet cried joyfully to Draco's utter bewilderment. She quickly occupied it as if afraid that it would disappear. "I absolutely love swinging!"
'Of all the things I showed,' Draco thought in exasperation, watching the look of childlike delight on her face.
"For whom was it put up?" Harriet asked, swinging slowly.
"Last summer, upon Kiera's insistence, I had it put up. Their residence doesn't offer much ground for swings, so she had to satisfy herself with one in the nearby park," Draco told her. "What about you?"
"At the Burrow, the trees aren't big or strong enough to support a swing. But my brothers, along with the neighbours, put one on an oak tree two miles away, but I find it occupied every time I go there," Harriet said, pouting slightly.
Draco almost smiled at her adorable look.
"Well, you can use it as much as you want until Kiera returns," Draco offered with a shrug.
"Thanks. I would love that," Harriet replied, smiling at him. They stared at each other until, after a moment later, Draco suggested that they should continue the tour.
Next, Draco showed her the poultry farm, which was closer to the kitchen, the horse shed where he introduced Harriet to a tall, dark-skinned man named Dean as the groom and two hulking men, Vincent Crabbe and Gregory Goyle as the coachmen. At the greenhouse, Draco introduced her to Abraham, an elderly gardener. Draco watched in amusement as she rapturously complimented the gardens while giving Abraham enough credit to cause him to actually colour a little. If Draco found that hilarious, he did not show.
Returning to the house, Draco smartly decided to take refuge from his parents by leading Harriet to the playroom where Nicholas, having woken up from his afternoon nap, was playing with his mother and a maid.
Upon seeing Draco, Nicholas abandoned the play and accosted him with an adorable cry 'Dwaco' and held his arms up, giggling. For a short second, Harriet had the privilege of seeing a genuine smile on Draco's face, as he obliged him by picking him up.
Draco then joined Nicholas in his play. Harriet was at first shocked, seeing her stern and indifferent-looking husband playing with a child before her face split into a soft smile as she watched their interaction.
Smiling, Natalie stood up and insisted the eager-looking Harriet to take her place. At first, Nicholas was shy of her and stayed close to Draco, but soon, he warmed up to her because of her exuberance. The three of them were so immersed that they never noticed Natalie leaving the room with the maid.
They played until the dinner call was made. Handing Nicholas to the maid's care, Draco escorted Harriet to the smaller dining room. Harriet didn't miss the change in Draco's countenance at the sight of his parents who were waiting at the table.
Harriet resigned herself to the quiet meals in the Manor unlike that of the lively ones that she was used to and fond of, in the Burrow. Except for answering Alexandra's inquires, Draco did not speak. Alexandra inquired Harriet about the tour to which Harriet spoke of her experience with variety of praises and remarks. Watching Narcissa from the corner of her eye, Harriet noticed that she was itching to make some scathing remarks, but refrained with enormous self-control.
After dinner, Alexandra asked Lucius, Narcissa and Natalie to join her for card-games, leaving Harriet and Draco to retire to their personal wing much to their secret gratitude. On their way back, "Sirius wanted me to give you this letter," Draco said, handing her an envelope.
Upon reaching the library, Harriet sat on a chair and opened the envelope with curiosity.
Mrs. Malfoy,
I wish to express that my happiness regarding this union has increased ten-fold upon realizing your identity. My favourite nephew and my best friend's daughter; my joy is boundless! I am leaving with much excitement as to inform Mrs. Black about this. Though my wife never met your father, she has heard quite a lot about our friendship through me and I know she would be happy for you two. I suspect she will be posting a letter, inviting you both to Black Manor as soon as she recovers.
Also, I want to apologize for making those prodding inquires about your past yesterday. My best friend's daughter or not, I should have never spoken of it considering that we are strangers, which, ironically, is quite a sad truth.
Draco has explained to me about your past and I feel honoured that he trusted me enough to reveal those details. Also, I feel saddened, guilty and ashamed for not being there to help in your tough times that you had to go through at all….
I feel like I somehow have failed James that some strangers and, later, Draco had to help you in your time of need when it should have been my duty. Nonetheless, from what I have observed in the party, the Weasleys seem like a lovely family and I am eternally grateful to them for all they have done for you over the years.
Draco and I talked about the issue at length and I agree with him that it would be in the best interest of you both to conceal the matter from others, especially two persons who I shall not name. I promise that your secret is safe with me.
Having said that, I cannot express in words how proud I am of you for what you have done for your adopted family. Knowing your birth parents, I say with the utmost confidence that they would have been enormously proud of you.
Also, I am indebted and mighty proud of Draco for helping you.
I was wondering if you would be interested in corresponding with me. I would love to get intimately acquainted with you even though it is quite late.
Another thing I wanted to add; if you ever need help, whether financially, socially or emotionally, (even if it is to straighten my cousin for his irrational behaviour towards you) please honour me by calling on me. Not as Draco's wife, but as just Harriet.
I end this letter by wishing you a happy and glorious life together.
Awaiting your reply with much hope,
Sirius Orion Black
P.S. I know, we haven't known each other for long, but you will make me incredibly happy if you addressed me as Uncle Sirius.
Draco, who had been reading quietly by the study table, looked up hearing her chuckle.
"What does mad old Sirius writes?" Draco questioned her
Shaking her head, Harriet said, "He says he is proud of you for what you have done for me."
Draco looked uneasy at that.
"Also that he hopes for a correspondence between us," she added.
"What do you think?" Draco asked
"I would like to know more about my birth parents. So, I will write him a reply," Harriet answered.
Draco nodded in understanding.
Unfortunately for Harriet, Alexandra spent most of the time in her rooms either resting or relaxing, still feeling tired from the excitement of the wedding preparations. This gave Narcissa ample opportunities to torment her, though she took care not to speak of ill of Harriet and her relations in front of Alexandra. Harriet suffered through the attacks with forbearance of a saint much to Narcissa's frustration. But her patience was wearing thin within a few days.
"How do you want me to deal with your mother, Mr. Malfoy?" Harriet asked Draco on the fifth night as they prepared for bed. "You said I should try not to be intimidated with her and ignore her. But she can't seem to exhaust herself of throwing comments at me at all. Even I have a limit of my patience. I can't silently bear it any longer!"
Other than throwing cold, venomous looks at her, Lucius refrained from verbal remarks for which Harriet was slightly thankful. She did not think she could deal with verbal assaults from both of Draco's parents.
Draco did have to admire Harriet for not losing her composure for this long. He knew how much this union had affected his mother. Draco wouldn't be surprised if he found that Narcissa had been secretly praying everyday for Alexandra's demise. She had been confident of receiving the Ladyship back after Alexandra's death, but she had not counted on Draco marrying. Draco hadn't missed the gleeful looks on his parents' faces whenever he had claimed to be a bachelor for the rest of his life. Then, he felt disgusted by them. Draco did not doubt that Narcissa wasn't sparing a single moment to make her displeasure known.
"You can retort as long as you don't insult her directly," was all the advice that Draco could give Harriet.
Unsatisfied by his response, Harriet fell asleep.
Next morning, Harriet, against her will, joined Natalie and Narcissa in the drawing room after breakfast. Draco had gone back to the factory for the first time since the wedding.
Harriet was showing the colourful pictures in the book to Nicholas, who was sitting on her lap, while Narcissa was ideally perusing some ladies' magazine.
"Emily writes saying that they have reached home safely. That Mother had taken her shopping the very next day of their arrival," Natalie said, having finished reading the letters she had received that morning.
"This is her third season attending, yes? She would lose her lustre if she doesn't find herself a husband this time. Everyone who had seen her before hadn't missed to notice the excessive weight she had gained these last few months," Narcissa commented. "You should recommend to her in your next letter to indulge in some physical activity before the season starts. Otherwise, she would drive away men who come forward because of her wealth and class."
Not noticing the offended look on Natalie's face, Narcissa continued. "Although spending too much time under the sun and in the wind would make her skin brown and coarse, I should think." Turning to face Harriet, she added disparagingly, "No offence to you."
"Tell her to walk around inside the house," Narcissa concluded to Natalie.
After a moment's pause, "Not even one gentleman showed interested in her in the last two seasons?" Narcissa asked with mock concern
"Of course not! There were a few gentlemen who were interested in Emily. Father just wasn't satisfied with any of their prospects," Natalie sniffed, her face flushed in anger. "Problem was that none of the grandsons or sons or nephews of father's associates participated in the last few seasons."
"Your father wasn't this particular when you came out. Maybe he cares for Emily more than you," Narcissa argued, tutting. That was the moment when Harriet realized just how dangerous Narcissa was. She was actually trying to cause discontent in the Parkin family!
"That is not the case at all! Notts have always been family friends and Father had known my husband since his childhood. So, he hadn't had to think much about accepting his proposal after I agreed. But in Emily's case, my parents will, of course, think long and hard before marrying her to a Gentleman from some unknown family," Natalie said indignantly.
"Oh, how I wish my son had put half of that thought in selecting a wife," Narcissa complained, sparing a glance at Harriet.
Harriet's cheeks turned red in anger before she collected herself and said calmly, "Seems like my husband inherited more than just looks from his father. From what I heard of your short engagement, Father-in-law also did not seem to have put much thought before marrying you."
"Excuse me," she added and left the room, ignoring Narcissa's hateful glare and Natalie's shocked expression.
The next day, Natalie left for the Nott house, stating that her in-laws would be upset if she stayed away any longer. Both Alexandra and Draco were baffled by her abrupt departure but did not try to stop her. Though there might have been some truth in her reason to return, Harriet thought that a part of the reason had been because Natalie felt offended and most probably hurt by Narcissa's callous remarks towards her sister.
If the house looked empty when Draco's aunts left, then it felt deserted in the absence of Nicholas' joyous cries and stomping feet when he would give chase to the maids. Without the other women to control Narcissa or what little they could, she became overbearing. Just after spending one afternoon in Narcissa's lone company, Harriet decided not to subject herself to it anymore. So, she had taken to avoid Narcissa by spending the day outside when the weather would allow and, during chilly days, Harriet hid herself in one room or other. She did not care if the others thought her to be rude.
As for Draco, he rarely opened his mouth in the presence of his parents. Harriet suspected that Lucius was taking his displeasure at the union on Draco in privacy. Since the day Draco had returned to the businesses, Lucius had followed him.
Every time Draco returned to the Manor with his father, he wore a blank look on his face, but his tense shoulders and stormy eyes clearly expressed that he was using every ounce of his patience to remain civil and not give in to his temper.
Many a time, Harriet opened her mouth to inquire him about it, but at the look he gave her, she subdued. Every day spent with Narcissa, Harriet's curiosity increased more and more over learning the family secret. She surmised that something wretched and truly awful must have happened for her Father-in-law to loose his Lordship and for a woman to take his place. But she resolved herself to wait until Lucius and Narcissa left to ask Draco to reveal the truth.
By the end of the week, Alexandra pleasantly surprised Harriet and Draco by granting their secret wish.
"I have received your tickets to France, Lucius. Since Draco, as well as his uncles and cousin returned to their respective businesses and professions, I thought that you would be eager to get back to yours too," Alexandra said pleasantly.
Lucius and Narcissa threw poisonous look at Alexandra, which she pretended not to notice.
Harriet and Draco sighed in relief when Lucius and Narcissa set off for their journey to France on the morning of the fifth.
In a late hour of that night, Harriet woke with a gasp when something forcefully hit her on the midriff. It was Draco's arm. Rolling her eyes in exasperation, Harriet took a deep breath to calm her racing heart. But before Harriet could move the arm away, a whimper caught her attention. Turning to her side, Harriet found Draco flinging his arms in the air as if fighting off some invisible object. His face was twisted in distress. Harriet realized that he must be caught in some nightmare. Using both her hands, Harriet managed to catch his arms and strongly held them down, which were trying to escape her grip. Bending down close to his ear, she whispered softly, "Shhhhh ... you are safe. You are fine." Harriet had repeat it several times before Draco stopped thrashing. Noticing the beads of sweat that accumulated on his forehead, Harriet brushed his fringe gently away from his face. Throughout the process, Draco did not wake once.
When she was satisfied that Draco had completely eased back to sleep, Harriet lay back on the bed, this time on her side and watched him concernedly until she drifted back to sleep herself.
When they woke up next morning, Draco looked at her suspiciously, but Harriet did her best not to give away anything that had transpired over the last night. Maybe he wasn't as unaware of it as Harry thought. During the last few months, the first thing she had learnt about Draco was that he was a proud man who rarely displayed his emotions. Harriet was certain that Draco would not take kindly to her discussing the matter. Harriet decided to let the issue go, thinking that everyone had an occasional nightmare.
When it happened again, Harriet could no longer ignore it. For a mad second, she thought maybe his parents were the cause of his nightmares. But she did not have concrete proof that it might be the reason.
One afternoon, Harriet sat in the study that was providing to her for the personal use, writing letters. First, she wrote to her family assuring them of her well being, enquiring after theirs and finishing with a detailed account of her settling in the Manor.
Next, she wrote a letter to Hermione that read,
Dear Hermione,
Firstly, I apologise for not sending you a letter for so long. Please forgive me.
How are you? Has there been any progress in a certain aspect of your life? You know of what I speak. Have you visited The Burrow after my marriage? Knowing you, I would say you feel hesitant to do so in my absence even if your heart so desires. Hermione, my family likes you as more than just as my best friend! I can confidently say that they would be upset if you don't. So, take my advice and visit them regularly. There is still Ginny and my Mother whom you can converse with. Although, I dare say that a certain other will appreciate your visits more.
As for me, I am quite well. I am settling in just fine. The very next day of the wedding, Mr. Malfoy showed me around the Manor. It is so big I have lost my way a few times since my arrival. But I think I am making progress in remembering the routes.
Mr. Malfoy's uncles left the very evening of the wedding for London, whereas his aunts and cousins stayed until the next afternoon. Everyone had prior engagements that needed to be attended. Only Natalie and her son, Father-in-law and Mother-in-law remained.
I am afraid to say that my husband's parents are the most unpleasant people on earth, which is saying something considering that I lived with the Dursleys. Since the day after the wedding, my mother-in-law spewed every possible insult at me. I will not lie by saying they did not hurt because some of them did, very much. Despite that, I dealt with her as civilly as I could. Now, don't go wondering why my husband or Lady Malfoy did not put an end to it. Well, Narcissa Malfoy was smart enough not to do it in front of them (only time I got some reprieve from her constant nasty remarks). And I did not want to complain. Also, Mr. Malfoy had warned long before the wedding about their possible reactions to the union and prepared me for it. You do not have to worry about me for they have gone back to France few days ago. I urge you not to mention this to my family. They will be very upset if they found out, especially Father, for he already suspects and fears it. I am mentioning this to you only because I could no longer keep it to myself.
Natalie left with her son a few days prior to my parents-in-law's departure. As long as she stayed, I had fun spending time with Nicholas, her sixteen-month-old adorable son. Now, Lady Malfoy, Mr. Malfoy and I remain in the huge manor along with the servants. The day Mr. Malfoy's parents left, Lady Malfoy handed me the responsibilities of the household, saying that she wanted me to become familiar with the house first. I can't think of enough words to describe her. Despite the wealth, beauty, intelligence and power, Lady Malfoy is the most humble, caring and affectionate person I have ever met. She has ALL the quantities we women hope for in ourselves. Sometimes, I wonder if she is real. If I have half of those qualities, I would consider myself accomplished. I will conclude by saying that she is my first and, most probably, last inspiration in life.
I must admit that life has become dull here after the relatives' departure. My household duties don't take more than an hour to perform everyday even if we are expecting guests for during the meals. As you can see, that it is quite a drastic change considering that I used to work at least eight hours a day before marriage if you do not count the month before the wedding. Though they are several means to entertain one's self, lack of company is a little depressing for me as I have lived in a house where privacy is almost unheard of. I feel like I have been dropped in an alternate universe and I find myself overwhelmed by the changes more than often. But I would say I am an adaptable person if I do not sound boisterous and I think I will get used this new environment just fine. I dare say every newly married woman undergoes it.
Mr. Malfoy stays out the most of the day on business, five days a week. So, Lady Malfoy keeps me company most of the time. Despite the age difference, I would say that we have become good friends. Her world of knowledge, sense of humour and liveliness makes her fascinating to talk to. Now don't go being jealous! You are still my best friend and no one can replace you in my heart.
I find that the weather here is colder than at the Burrow, probably because of the stone stature and open surroundings. Our neighbours live six miles away! The chilly climate restricts me inside, causing me to entertain myself with books or sewing. Talking of books, we have a huge library here. When I first saw it, the only thought that crossed my mind was 'Hermione's heaven'. But you know I am not much of a reader unless it is a book of my interest. So I declare myself utterly bored. In your next letter, I want you to send me suggestions on spending time that DO NOT involve reading.
I know you are eager for me to talk about my husband. Well, unlike his grandmother, Mr. Malfoy is not much of conversationalist. But that doesn't prevent us from spending time in companionable silence either in the study or drawing room. He takes good care of me. There! I am not going to say much on this matter!!
I will end this rather long letter by saying that I eagerly await your letter. Honestly, I feel odd writing letters to you when, only until a couple of weeks ago, we saw each other everyday. Oh, how I miss you all.
With love,
Harriet
Harriet could no longer curb her eagerness and curiosity regarding the family secret. So, she approached Draco one afternoon and reminded him of his promise. Draco dismissed the conversation by simply saying that 'It didn't matter anymore,' and left the room. Harriet frowned. The next time she tried to breech the subject, he conveyed the same message this time with just his looks.
Harriet was vexed and frustrated by his attitude at first, but upon further reflection, she consoled herself that, maybe, just three months' of acquaintance wasn't enough for Draco to trust her with such private affairs. She was a little hurt at this submission if she was honest with herself, but she resolved not to seek him and pry for details until he felt comfortable to talk about them himself.
Her resolution, however, did not last more than a fortnight because for the first time, words emitted from Draco's mouth during the nightmare.
"Not Anna, Mother!"
The next morning after Draco left for the factory, Harriet, with a determined look, approached the one person other than Draco who she believed to possess all the answers.
"I want to know what happened twelve years ago!"
Author's note: If this is a cliffhanger, then I consider myself successful.
Because of my eagerness, I tend to give away a lot of clues, don't I? Don't worry, I have many plans that I will do my best to keep secret.
Anyway, I got rid of all the relatives, finally!! Yay!! Also, I was getting tired of forming insults for Narcissa's character. Already, I am dreading her return.
Well, good news is that Draco and Harriet have the whole Manor to themselves. *Wriggling my eyebrows suggestively* Alexandra is restricted to ground floor, remember!
SCORE:
Narcissa : Harriet
? ?
You tell me!!!
Also, I have decided against put up a poll about 'who's Anna? What had Narcissa done?' because then I will have give you choices. No, no.. *shaking my index finger at you* I expect you all to express your ideas or opinions or guesses or whatever. I am eager to see how many of you come closer to the truth.!!smirks!!
On to explanations then,
London Season: It starts after Christmas and lasts till mid-June. Parliament was in session, Theatre plays are in full swing and most important of all, Marriage Mart is held.
Marriage Mart: During this time, people from all over England come to London whose girls had to be presented to the Queen(if they are from high class, otherwise directly in a party) before being able to enter society. She had to be presented by a Lady of higher rank, whether a family member or a friend. A young lady was not considered approved for the marriage market until she was presented at the court. It is also called her 'coming out'. Balls, parties, dinners and breakfasts are held during the seasons, giving opportunities for women to seek spouses. If she didn't marry within two or three seasons, she was considered a failure, and at thirty, a hopeless spinster. *How terribly awful*
In case of your dear Harriet, she got married before even coming out. !!Wink!!
In the future, when I say town, it means London.
DON'T FORGET TO PLEASE REVIEW. I ADORE THEM!!!