Disclaimer: All characters belong to J.K. Rowling. I own nothing of hers!
Chapter 42
"Who?" Ron instantly asked. As an Auror, he was trained to be skeptical of everything. The ginger scanned the restaurant to view any known Death Eater, waiting to catch them off guard.
"Ron, please," Hermione turned to the waiter, "please tell whoever it was, thank you for us," the man nodded with a smile, and paced away.
"You don't honestly believe a Death Eater will pay for our meal, do you? We're in muggle London for Merlin's sake!" Hermione whispered, covering his hand with hers as she attempted to calm Ron from being so paranoid.
Ron still looked about the room, noting quite a few more pity-filled glances. Ron sighed. Perhaps there was no danger. Instead, the sick feeling in his stomach had to be the sorry looks bombarding him.
"Yea, perhaps not. But, a pity meal doesn't sit well with me either," he grumbled.
Hermione followed his eyes, noting what Ron had said, seeing the curious customers with lingering eyes.
"They don't matter, remember? Do you want me to go give them a piece of my mind? I will. I'll do it right now," Hermione began standing from her chair rather quickly, causing the patrons to return their eyes back to their own tables.
Ron had to chuckle at his girlfriend's fervor, "No, it's fine. Let's just get home."
With a nod, Hermione slipped on her trench coat as Ron stood, dressing in his coat as well, stabilizing on his cane.
"Ready?" Hermione smiled, slipping her arm into his. Ron grinned back, attempting to ignore the onlookers, and kissed her on the temple.
The pair made their way to exit the restaurant, when an elderly man stopped them.
Hermione felt his Ron's arm tense around hers, as he gripped the wand in his pocket.
"Excuse me," he stood from his seat, blocking their path to the exit somewhat.
"We just wanted to say how lovely it was to see such a young couple like the pair of you. You don't see a man treat his date like that anymore," the old man chuckled, glancing over to his table, which sat an elderly woman in a wheelchair.
Ron felt his body relax at the comment, knowing that he no longer needed to be on guard.
"Anyways, the two of you reminded us of when we were young, although you don't see it much now!" He laughed, coughing a bit before he settled, "we hope you enjoyed your meal."
A genuine grin spread across Hermione's face, "It was lovely. Thank you for the gift. It was too kind of you," Hermione graciously thanked them, shaking his hand. Ron followed, standing a bit taller at the old man's words.
"Don't mention it. Keep doing what you're doing. Keep that spark alive."
"Will do, sir. Thank you, again," Ron spoke as Hermione looped her arm back around Ron's. The older man nodded once, hobbled over to sit back with his wife.
The pair continued down the snowy street, dipping into an alleyway. Before they Disapparated, Ron pulled Hermione into a passionate snog. The ginger immediately deepened it, seeking admittance to her mouth, which she blissfully allowed. A moan escaped her as she tugged him down toward her.
"Ugh," Ron winced, causing Hermione to break the snowy kiss promptly.
"Are you okay? Did I hurt you?" The brunette worried, placing her hands on his biceps, to look him over.
"'M fine," Ron muttered, cursing his outburst that ended such a magical moment. He leaned forward again to resume the embrace. Hermione gently placed her hands on his chest, pushing him gradually away.
"Ron, you're in pain. Let's get you home. You can take your potion and I can collect our daughter," Hermione explained sweetly. She kissed the tip of his nose before returning to her feet fully to the ground, and looping her arm back around his.
The redhead clenched his jaw, disappointed that his limb had still been causing him issues. It was a perfectly good snog, and he had to ruin it.
"Ron?" He came out of his brooding state to see Hermione looking at him with concern.
"Yeah, I'm ready," he reassured her, showing a small smile.
She nodded once, and closed her eyes to Disapparate home.
The weather was turning colder as the holidays were fast approaching. Hermione and Ginny decided to run about getting gifts for the family. It was a Sunday morning as Hermione had woken early to get her shopping done in time for Rose's afternoon nap.
Ron sauntered into the kitchen, rubbing his eyes with one fist, the other clamped onto the top of his cane, "Do you really have to go? It'd be nice to have another lie in," Ron yawned, watching Hermione retrieve their daughter from her high chair, and wipe her face, and hair, free from oatmeal.
Hermione smiled at the sleepy redhead; he would never truly be an early riser, "I want to beat the crowds. Besides, we're getting closer to Christmas, and I don't want to put it off until the last minute," she hinted, as she held Rose on her hip, and slung her purse, and the nappy bag over the other shoulder.
Ron grinned crookedly at the witch, "I don't know who you're talking about. Who would be irresponsible enough to wait until the week of Christmas to do their shopping?"
Hermione gave him a knowing smirk. They both turned when the Floo rumbled, alerting them of Ginny's arrival.
"So, bloody cold out! I wish I was back in Belize! That sun was spectacular, I'm telling you," Ginny exited the Floo, and made her way over to Ron, pecking him on the cheek, before turning to Hermione and Rose.
"If it helps any, I'm glad you're back," Hermione smiled, as Ginny squeezed her tightly. She turned to Rose next, holding her arms open for the drowsy tot. Rose yawned, but, leaned forward into her aunt's arms. Hermione grinned watching her daughter cuddle into Ginny. Months ago, she would have never guessed her daughter would be that comfortable with anyone outside of herself… or possibly Ron. Before moving to England, Rose would have had a fit if she had to leave Hermione. Now, so many things have changed.
Ginny lowered to kiss the crown of Rose's head, "It's good to be back. I missed this little munchkin… and her parents of course."
"Good to know," Ron chuckled, watching how Ginny swayed softly while holding the tot. He loved how much his family adored his daughter.
"Right. Then are we ready to go?" Hermione suggested, adjusting the bags on her shoulder. Before Ginny could answer, Ron stepped in.
"Why don't I take Rose for the morning. You could get your shopping done, and then I could make us lunch or something to catch up? I'll even Floo Harry to join us," Ron suggested, looking between the two women, focusing on Hermione.
"You're sure?" Hermione asked, skeptically, knowing Ron would rather just go back to sleep than be actively playing with a toddler all morning.
"Sure. I mean, Rose probably wouldn't enjoy waiting in lines and such for hours. Besides, we have to get your Christmas present together as well," Ron explained, hoping that Hermione would enjoy some time with just another adult for a few hours.
The witch thought for a moment before smiling widely, "I think it's a lovely idea. Thank you, Ron."
Ron grinned in return, as Ginny passed the, now sleeping, tot to her mum.
"Well, then, let's get going! I have to tell you all about the honeymoon!" Ginny exaggerated, watching as Ron cringed, shaking his head from the mental image that Ginny had forced upon him. Hermione chuckled as she paced past Ron and set Rose on the large bed, resting her head tenderly on the pillows. She kissed her forehead, and brought her baby blanket to keep her warm.
"Even better she's staying with me. She doesn't need to hear anything remotely related to that," he shuddered at the thought crossing his mind again.
"Oh, Ron. You'll have to start getting used to the idea. One day, in the future, mind you, she'll be in love and need to know…" Ginny laughed, loving how upset Ron was about the situation.
Ron shook his head rapidly, "Nope. Not until very, very far in the future. Maybe when she's thirty -no- forty."
"I'm just saying…" Ginny elucidated.
"We'll be back for lunch. Thank you for staying with her," Hermione jumped in, resting her hand on Ron's chest before pushing up on the tips of her toes to plant a secure kiss on his lips.
She turned, leaving a flush of color running up Ron's neck, and turned to Ginny. His sister's eyebrows were raised in surprise, as Hermione linked their arms to Disapparate.
As they vanished, Ron let out a huge exhale. He was shocked that Hermione had been so affectionate in front of someone else, yet, extremely delighted. He shook his head, a wide crooked grin spreading across his features, knowing that witch, was always going to surprise him.
He glanced at the clock; ten till seven. His grin widened even further, knowing he had everything he needed to do as he planned that morning. And he could sleep in a little longer. He paced to the bed, tossing a few pillows on the other side of Rose, charming them to keep her from rolling off. He laid on the other side of her and threw a spell toward the clock, to chime in an hour's time.
Ron had another appointment with the healer the following week. He made sure to diligently work his leg as instructed. All exercises and potions were completed, in addition to staying off the limb if it began to hurt. He was able to do the exercises himself now, saving him from being awkwardly close to Hermione in a situation that was anything but sexy. He laid on his bed while doing his leg exercises, thinking over the past week.
It frustrated Ron to no end that he couldn't do the things he used to. Chasing Rose around the flat as her squeals and shrieks filled the air, lifting her to give his daughter a big kiss on the cheek, even kneeling by the bath wasn't an option for him anymore. The entire situation was frustrating for him, especially because he could see Rose becoming upset too. First, she was simply angry that Ron refused to lift her, not truly caring that both of her parents explained he was hurt. Eventually she understood as well as a toddler could, but, as the days passed, she grew less angry and more saddened.
Like just a few days ago, Rose came sprinting out of the bathroom, wearing only her nappy, to see him.
"Chase me, daddy! I not go take baff!" Rose giggled, waiting for her father to spring up and catch her flying through the flat. At this time, Hermione appeared in the doorway, eyes searching for her daughter.
Rose's face showed her anticipation, her feet bouncing in the wait.
Ron sighed, removing his wand as he cast another numbing spell, "Daddy can't play chase tonight, darling. Remember? Daddy's hurt," Ron spoke as softly as he could, knowing that she would probably push further as she normally did.
The look of realization crossed the toddler's face. All amusement faded, leaving a heartbreaking disposition of disappointment. All bounce melted from her, as Hermione approached. A sad smile on the witch's face as she glanced over to Ron.
"It's alright, love. Daddy's getting better by the day. He'll be able to play soon," Hermione held her hand out for the tot to take. Rose nodded solemnly and placed her small hand into Hermione's hold. On the way back to the bath, Hermione glanced back to check on Ron, giving him another sad smile as she saw how upset he had been.
Ron hated it. Never in his life did he ever want to see Rose look at him that way again. Working this hard; staying assiduous in his routine and healer prescribed regimen, was the way to do it.
The days were passing quickly, and their routine was getting normal once again. Ron was taking his potions on the settee as he did daily after coming home from work.
Hermione Flooed in holding Rose, whose face glowed when she saw her father.
"Daddy!" Ron chuckled, knowing she was doing this ever since Hermione had consistently began picking her up from the Burrow.
"Heya, Rosie. Were you good for Grandmum today?" Ron asked, as Hermione set Rose down to greet her father.
"I be good! We make cookie-biscuts!" Rose trilled happily, as she hastily climbed up the sofa.
A bemused look spread across Ron's features, looking to Hermione for clarification.
"In America, they're called cookies. At the ministry, they would always ask if she wanted a cookie, not a biscuit. Your mum must have tried straightening that out," Hermione smiled, moving to the bedroom to set down her work satchel and the nappy bag.
Ron smiled widely as Rose finished her summit, now crawling next to him. Ron opened his arms to welcome her into his embrace, dusting the soot off her jumper.
"What did Healer Driscoll say after your appointment?" Hermione inquired as she exited the bedroom, her hair was now out of its confining bun, and cascading wildly down her back.
"She looked optimistic, but, said she'd send me my new regimen later today," Ron shrugged, as Rose pulled out of her snuggle, to reach for her lamb which she dropped on her climb up the settee.
A bright grin came across Hermione's face, "she's changing your treatment? That's great! That means there must be some improvement," the witch sat next to him, curling up while he gave the much-needed attention to their daughter.
"I suppose… I just don't know how much of a change it will be," Ron explained, glancing at Hermione before he returned to Rose.
"Hopefully it will be a good change. But, whatever it is, we'll get through it," Hermione leaned to kiss his cheek, before cuddling back into his side.
…
Later that evening, as Hermione was cleaning up dinner, there was a tapping on the window.
"That must be from Mungo's," Ron grinned, Hermione reached across the sink to collect the letter from the barn owl, slipping him a few treats, before he flew away.
Hermione passed the letter off to Ron, who rapidly opened it. A smile slid across her face, knowing how eager he was to see what the healer had to say. Hermione slid Rose out of her highchair and wiped her face with a damp cloth, before placing her on the ground to go play.
Hermione glanced back up, noting Ron's eyes were wide and almost to the end of the document.
"Well? What does it say?" Hermione asked, knowing the curiosity was getting the better of her. She just wanted him to be happier, not having as many limitations.
Ron's eyes quickly finished scanning over the parchment, concluding with red ears and a grin. "Down to only three potions, twice a day, I only need to use the cane for another week, unless it doesn't strengthen anymore, but, I can try a few moments without it, and I'm not as limited, I suppose..." Ron passed her the document and stood from his chair.
"Oh, Rosie!" He called playfully, causing the tot to turn quickly from her dolls, her curls springing at the movement.
"Guess who can play again?" Ron grinned as he walked toward her without the use of his cane.
A massive smile appeared on Rose's face as her eyes widened in anticipation of her father approaching her.
"Daddy?" She asked excitedly.
Ron answered with a pounce, tickling the tot to her heart's content. Shrieking with the laughter he hadn't been able to cause for quite some time now.
Hermione shook her head, her eyes scanning the parchment for the details Ron had excluded, "It does say right here not to overdo it!" Hermione reminded him, having to raise her voice over the laughs emitted from the den. The two were now tumbling around through their play. In response, the witch heard a loud raspberry being blown onto her daughter's skin, causing another round of high pitched shrieks and giggles to come tumbling from the pair.
She continued to look over the document, noting his new potion regimen had been dramatically reduced, to both of their pleasure. Toward the end of the parchment, there was a small paragraph Ron had failed to mention.
I feel that Mr. Weasley has improved so much, that I no longer believe it is medically necessary for him to restrain from sexual intercourse. As long as the position in which it is done, does not place more than half his body weight on the hip joint down. The following positions are acceptable for the upcoming week, until I see him again. By then, as long as he has not exerted the limb too excessively, he should be able to perform at all positions.
Below that, included, as mentioned, the various sexual positions Ron was permitted, with a short, intimate, description.
As Hermione read the fine script, she could feel her cheeks begin to flush, the room feeling much warmer than it had in the last several minutes.
"Mione, are you okay?" Ron asked, startling the witch. She had been so consumed by her reading, that she failed to notice his arrival while carrying their winded toddler.
"Y-yes, I'm fine. Just wanted to make sure we, um, covered everything on here, is all," Hermione nodded her head more than necessary, making her flustered state more apparent. She swallowed, wishing that the temperature would cool once more.
Ron nodded slowly, clearly not believing that she was as calm as she tried to project, "Right. Well, I think she's well due for a bubble bath, to celebrate with Mr. Ducky. What do you say, Rosie?"
Rose's tired face lit once more as she was exhilarated at the suggestion.
"Bubble bath! Yes, Daddy!" She bounced in his hold, linking her arms around his neck to squeeze a hug. Ron chuckled, and looked back to Hermione, who was beaming at the interaction.
Ron began walking towards the bathroom, but before, his feet drew him to Hermione. He placed a slow kiss to her cheek, before he continued to his destination.
Hermione's breath tightened in her chest. She took a shuddering breath to regain the regulation of blood flow. Ron and she were growing so much closer. And the heat between the two... it was becoming undeniable. An innocent kiss to her cheek, already had her heart racing and blood pumping faster than it had in years. Now, that Ron had officially been cleared to partake in intimate affairs again, Hermione had to wonder if now was their time.
That Sunday, the family gathered as usual at the Burrow for dinner. Tonight, everyone was cooped indoors, admiring the Christmas decorations Molly had spread around the home. After the filling meal, the families spread about the downstairs, conversing and enjoying each other's company. Tonight, the only one missing was Charlie, who had another emergency that required him to stay in Romania. Molly had complained vehemently about his work, and how it had prevented him from finding a partner and keeping him from his family. Ron had to keep his chuckles down. Charlie had sent a letter earlier that day to him, mentioning that Sophie had some sort of influenza, and he was there caring for her.
Ron and Harry were by the entrance to the kitchen, leaning on a wall, chatting as they drank their warmed butterbeers.
"Are you still able to watch Rose on Friday?" Ron questioned Harry nonchalantly, swirling his butterbeer.
Harry raised his eyebrows, "So, it worked out then?" Ron nodded, hinting at a grin, glancing across the room at the witch he loved, currently attempting to wipe their daughter's face, which had jam squeezed from a tart smothered over it. The tot wasn't in the mood for such a hassle, at the moment. He watched as she swiped her hand through her locks, pushing her wild curls back as she wrestled the tot in her arms; he chuckled slightly as the curls began to creep forward once more.
"It did," he turned back to his longtime friend, "Everything is set. It's a big night."
Harry smiled at his lanky friend, truly seeing that he's wasn't that scrawny redhead that he became friends with on the train so many years ago...
"Then, count on Gin and me to watch Rose. We can keep her for the entire night if you like," Harry suggested, acting indifferently as he nudged the ginger in the ribs.
Ron grinned at the thought, he knew that night would be big, and special. It would mean a lot to Hermione. He took a deep breath.
"Yea. I think that would be good. Don't you?" Ron inquired, looking hesitantly as his friend knew the deeper context of the question.
"Only if you both are ready," Harry replied, patting his best mate on the back.
...
"Ah-ha! I knew I'd get it off! Now, that wasn't so hard, now, was it?" Hermione looked proud as she finished gently scrubbing the jam off the tot's face.
Rose gave her best glare to her Mum, wanting her to know just how much she did not enjoy the event prior. Hermione looked at the tot and shook her head at her daughter's pouting lips and scrunched brows.
"You'll be fine. Off you go now, darling," Hermione placed a kiss to the small ginger's pert nose, and placed her on the floor, patting her bum before she bounded off.
"Hermione," Ginny whispered, pulling the witch by the arm to a more secluded area of the crowded room of the Burrow; still able to observe the room.
"Ginny, what is it?" Hermione inquired, befuddled why the witch was acting so oddly.
"Did you hear Ron and Harry talking?" Ginny asked excitedly, glancing between Hermione and her brother, still with her husband across the den.
"No, I was dealing with my stubborn dau-" Hermione was cut off by the hyper witch.
"Harry said he and I would babysit, while you and Ron had a big night," Ginny was smiling so widely at the comment, that Hermione was shocked a shrill squeak didn't emit from the redhead.
Then her mind worked over what she had said. Ron planned a big night. One that required childcare, and was on their usual date night.
"…You don't think he's going to..." Hermione's heart was pumping quicker now, feeling the fluttering of excitement in her stomach.
"Propose? I do hope so! Wouldn't that be great? It's about fuc-bloody time he did," Ginny whispered harshly, trying with all her might to keep herself quiet and from eavesdroppers.
Hermione felt her face warm with a smile. It was completely possible that he was proposing that night. And, he was just cleared to… Hermione felt her blush deepen. That indeed would be a big night.
"So, regular date night this Friday?" Hermione prompted that Tuesday morning when Ron hadn't said anything was out of their usual schedule. She had been trying to keep it together the best she could, since Ginny had overheard the men. Yet, he hadn't mentioned anything out of the usual. She supposed that he was just trying to keep it quiet; a surprise. However, she couldn't resist the pull of asking him.
Ron's face turned pink, something she knew was a good sign to begin with. He finished his tea, and cleared his throat, "Well, it's going to be a special night. So, be prepared..."
He paced over to the witch, wrapping his arms around her for a heated kiss. When he broke the embrace, Hermione was breathing heavy; not being able to do anything but nod, and watch Ron smirk as she paced over to pluck Rose from the floor, Flooing away to the Burrow.
The week wore on gruelingly slow. They spent extra time at work, both feeling behind from all the time they had been fortunately allowed off. Each night, returning home, exhausted. Just enough energy left to play with their daughter, consume some food, and hit the mattress, instantly falling asleep.
That Friday was finally here. Hermione had never been so excited for the Friday before Christmas, in her life. She tried to keep her excitement minimal. But, the fact was that she could hardly wait until that evening's date with Ron.
"Three more days until Christmas, Rosie! Where we get to open presents, and eat loads of sweets!" Ron reminded her that morning after breakfast. He had done so, a number of weeks ago when they decorated the flat for the holidays. Telling her all about Father Christmas and how he would leave her gifts and sweets galore. Ron insisted that they go overboard this year, as it was likely the first Christmas Rose would remember. He failed to verbalize that it was also their first Christmas together, as a family. Something, she knew he wanted to say, but, every time, a gloss would spread across his blue orbs, causing him to jump to another traditional Christmas activity, and not to his emotions.
"Twee days, Mummy!" Rose giggled, holding up three of her fingers to distract her parents from the fact that she was heading over once more to the Christmas tree, crowding the den.
Hermione loved trees that were clean and crisp. Elegant tinsel, orderly white lights, delicate ornaments, with a few homemade ones as well. Yet, that looked nothing like their tree. Ron had chosen the largest he could, causing Hermione quite the laugh when she had challenged him to place it in the flat without the assistance of magic. Hours later, the tree was shrunk to have just enough room at the top for the star, without scraping the ceiling. They loaded on vibrant fairy lights, tinsel, garland, and decorations in various colors and shapes, including some that Molly had created with Rose.
Ron wasn't sure what to do when Molly had given them to her. Hermione grew quiet very suddenly, before tears poured down her cheeks, thanking the matriarch tearfully. A few tears fell again, when Hermione pulled out two small ornaments, both with pictures of Rose, noting her first and second Christmas. Ron was sure they were sad tears, but, unable to speak about it himself, he wrapped a comforting arm around her shoulders, watching as Rose attempted to hang a few ornaments by herself.
No, the tree looked nothing like what Hermione had pictured in her head. But, she loved that damn tree. The first one her family had created together.
"And Daddy's teaching you nothing of the true meaning of Christmas," Hermione emphasized before kissing her daughter on the head, and turning her away from ripping the ornaments from the tree to play with.
Ron was dropping Rose off that morning at the Burrow. Rose would hardly have it any other way, now that he was able to lift her once more. The witch grabbed her bag and turned, coming face to face with Ron.
"We're meeting here before we leave tonight?" Hermione inquired, swallowing her eagerness down.
"Sounds like a plan."
He leaned in to place another heart pounding kiss upon her. She stepped back, knowing if she lingered any longer, she might have let on she knew too much about that night.
...
Just after lunch, there was a knock on Hermione's office door. During the past week, they had been eating separately, working through their lunch to stay on top of everything. Ron would try to stop by, dropping off a tea, and sneak a kiss, but, today, he hadn't done either. When Hermione looked up, she noticed it was the very man she had been trying to get out of her head for the entire week, and if she was being honest with herself, much longer.
"Hey," Hermione greeted with a smile. Ron nodded back, and stepped into her office, shutting the door sheepishly behind him.
His behavior struck Hermione as odd. He walked in, and rubbed his hand over the back of his neck.
"So, uh, I had lunch with Harry," he began, looking around the room before glancing at her, "We were discussing the plans for tonight, and he thinks I should have told you ahead of time. You see, I wanted it to be a surprise. I really fuc-mucked it up last time, and wanted to surprise you with it. But, Harry thinks you'll want time to prepare, among other things, and he's right, I guess I just didn't think of it because I was too excited, but, he-"
"Ronald, what are you talking about?" Hermione looked at him with wide eyes, clearly not following his jumbled ramble.
"Oh, right. Sorry. I set up a dinner for us with Vernathy Albroach and his department heads," he watched as Hermione digested the information, realizing how stupid it would have been not to tell her ahead of time.
Hermione stared at him in disbelief. He organized a dinner with the men who had turned down her proposal. On that night where so much had gone wrong.
"Look, I thought it would be a good idea. I screwed it all up last time, and made you look dishonest for me not showing up. I want them to hear you out and give you another chance. Please don't be mad," he cringed as he said the last words, seeing as her face hadn't lost its stunned look.
"Hermione?"
"I'm not mad. Just, really, very surprised. I can't believe you got another dinner with them. The Friday before Christmas?" Hermione breathed, shocked at how calm she was, on top of everything else.
"Well, it kind of guaranteed that they didn't have a work dinner scheduled... so I made a few meetings and made it happen. I told them it was my fault I didn't come last time; that you had no idea. But, that you didn't need me there to do your job. You could handle it yourself just fine."
Hermione nodded at his words, now processing the fact that she needed to find and prepare everything for the presentation that night. Her eyes began scanning her room, trying to order just what needed to be done first.
"I'll, uh, leave you to it then," Ron muttered quietly, turning to open the door.
"Thank you, Ron. I do appreciate it," Hermione uttered, before he left the room.
As her door clicked shut once more, Hermione sat back in her chair. Rubbing her temples. In a matter of moments, the butterflies disappeared. The thrill of that night changed. No longer the proposal she and Ginny had predicted. Yes, it was terribly sweet of Ron to try and make up what he said he'd mucked up before. But, underneath her appreciation, lingered disappointment. She shook her head and resumed searching for her required documents; berating herself for getting her hopes up, and making the night into something it wasn't.
...
Hours later, the pair Flooed back to their flat. As soon as Hermione stepped into the hardwood floor, she pounced on Ron. Her arms flung around his neck, as she pulled him down to encase his mouth with hers. Ron grunted at the sudden change, but, was thoroughly pleased. The evening had gone swimmingly as he couldn't have been happier.
"You were bloody brilliant," Ron breathed, feeling her delicate fingers forcefully unbutton and peel his heavy winter coat from his body. His hands roamed hers, doing the same. Their lips staying connected as much as possible.
"I can't believe it's done. It'll be signed in the new year, -oh," Hermione ended with a strained moan as Ron's lips began to travel lower to her neck. The entire evening -even throughout her presentation- she couldn't get her mind off how appreciative she was that he did this for her. After they had approved her proposal, the men chatted about how well prepared and well thought it was. Ron stepped in then, now having an equally high status as the men at the Ministry, saying how he wasn't needed there at all because she had created it all herself; leaving the men instantly chastened.
She fumbled to remove her cardigan, cursing herself for even putting it on that evening. After a momentary struggle, they somehow were able to fling the material off her body.
Their lips reattached, eager for what they both hoped would happen that night. They stumbled into the bedroom, neither one graceful as they kicked off their shoes, and attempted to remove more winter layers of clothing from each other.
Ron continued his ministrations to her ear, "you looked so fucking sexy too," before he took her earlobe into his mouth and sucked gently on the skin. Hermione could hardly believe what she was feeling, a shudder striking down her back.
She turned him quickly, and they fell onto the bed. Ron laid, his back on the mattress, stunned to see Hermione, still in the dress she had given her presentation in, slowly climbing on top of him. Her meek look alerted him that she was nervous. He reached up to cradle her face, pushing up halfway, to meet her swollen lips.
"Are you sure?" Ron whispered against her. The witch opened her eyes, gazing into Ron's azure pools.
She nodded, "This is one of the, um, positions, that we're allowed to do. I just can't, erm, put too much of my weight on the joint is all," she was blushing furiously now.
Ron kept her face cradled as they stopped their movements, to stare at each other in the moment.
After a pause, neither knew how long, a sly smile spread across Hermione's face, as she tilted her hips forward, grinding herself slowly across Ron's lap. He emitted a low grunt, moaning at the intimate contact. And just like that, they were at it again.
Seconds after, a bell began ringing. Ron groaned in annoyance as his hand had been searching for Hermione's clasp and zipper.
"Ignore it," Hermione mumbled onto his skin.
The bell continued its shrill ring once more, causing both to huff in frustration.
"It might be Harry..." Ron muttered, halting their actions once more. Hermione sighed, and removed herself from the top of him.
Ron took a deep breath and stood, adjusting himself comfortable for his best mate to see him.
Ron opened the Floo quickly, hoping to solve the annoyance and get on with things.
"Hey, Ron. So sorry to do this, but, Rose is really upset. She's been crying for over an hour and we've tried everything to calm her down. We don't know what to do. She just keeps screaming for you and Hermione," Harry looked apologetically at the redhead. Ron could hear the muffled crying from beyond the Floo connection.
"Alright," Ron pinched the bridge of his nose, "I'll be there in a moment. Tell her Daddy's coming."
Harry nodded, successfully ending the call. Ron sighed once more, loathing that they had yet another interruption. But, he knew their daughter needed them right now.
He made his way back to Hermione, who was still sitting on the bed. He gave her a small smile, "Rose is really upset. I could hear her crying over the Floo. I'm going to pick her up."
To Ron's surprise, Hermione didn't look disappointed.
"Okay. Go get her. We'll put her to bed, and... pick up where we were," she shyly grinned at him.
Ron felt his disappointment melt away, nodding quickly before returning to the Floo.
"W-Want Da-Daddy!" Rose sobbed. Ginny held the tot in her arms, rocking her soothingly, yet, Rose was pushing away with one hand while rubbing her swollen eyes with the other.
She was too distracted to notice Ron's arrival. As Ron stepped closer, she saw the redhead, letting out another heartbreaking sob, "Daddy!"
He took her in his arms, gathering the tot as she gripped onto him fiercely. The sobs lessening, turning into heavy hiccups. Ron rubbed her back softly, "Shh, Rosie. It's alright. You're okay."
"I'm really sorry Ron. But, we tried everything! She feels warm, but, wouldn't hold still long enough for her temperature to read. I don't think she feels very well," Ginny apologized. She was wearing her pajamas, her hair collected in a messy bun, looking exhausted and concerned.
"It's alright. Rose comes first, after all," Ron felt his daughter's little fists relax on his neck.
"Wanna g-go ho-me Daddy." Rose hiccuped, looking well wore out over her fit.
"Let's go home and see Mum, yeah?" Rose slowly nodded, agreeing with her father.
Ron thanked them for watching her, shooting down their apologies. Of course, he was disappointed, but, Rose needed her parents, for whatever reason tonight.
Hermione met them in the den as they Flooed back. Rose became tearful again, and reached or to her mum.
"Oh darling, you're okay, love," Hermione cradled Rose.
"Gin's not sure she's feeling well, but, could get a temperature to read on her," Ron explained, sitting himself on the settee.
Hermione nodded, feeling the tot's head as she calmed down once more, "Rosie, what's wrong? Do you feel well?" Hermione asked her gently, removing her hand and placing a kiss for her forehead, brushing some of her curly locks back after.
"Tummy h-hurt. Want M-Mummy and Da-ddy," she began to whine again, verging on another sob. Hermione calmed her and made a plan.
"I'll give her some of the stomach settling potion. That usually makes her tired. I'll put her to bed, and try to get a temperature. Then we can... resume where we were," Hermione blushed, "I, um, moved her cot. So, we have the whole room to ourselves."
An hour later, Hermione returned to their room, to see Ron lying on the bed, flipping through a Quidditch magazine. He looked up as the witch entered the room, flopping on the bed next to him.
"Did she go down?" Ron asked, setting his reading material beside him.
"Yes. I gave her the tonic, and rocked her to sleep. I took her temperature, reading a little higher than what it should. Hopefully she'll sleep it off," Hermione sighed, turning toward Ron.
"You don't think it's the curse again, do you?" Ron asked nervously, voicing both their fears.
Hermione shook her head, "I don't think it is. But, if she's not better in the morning, I'll take her into Mungo's to be safe."
Ron nodded slowly, watching the witch. He reached over to play with one of her curls, pulling it gently so it sprung back into place. Hermione chuckled softly, and reached to pull him to herself.
They snogged languidly for some time, feeling less of an urgent rush as they did before. As it became more heated, Hermione began removing his shirt, and then moved to his trousers. They adjusted so she was on top, once more. Ron sent spine tingling kisses down Hermione's neck, while he reached for her zip once more.
As if she heard such move, a cry from Rose came from the other end of the flat.
Hermione groaned as she lowered her head to his shoulder. Ron chuckled softly, knowing they were both equally frustrated. The crying became louder, causing the pair to detach once again.
"I'll go," Ron volunteered, summoning some pajama trousers before he left the room. Hermione laid there, staring at the ceiling as her breathing calmed. Now, she wasn't so sure tonight was the night.
"Hermione? You need to come here," Ron called. She sighed and pushed herself from the mattress and met Ron in the guest room.
She instantly saw what Ron was concerned with. Rose had vomited all over her cot, along with having a copious amount of sick on herself.
"Oh sweetheart," Hermione rushed over to pick up the tot. Rose was spilling tears once more. Hermione vanished her pajamas, knowing she might instantly relieve some of the smell.
"I'll draw her a bath and give her more potion. Would you mind cleaning this up?" Hermione asked, giving Ron a sad smile.
Nothing between them was happening tonight. Ron returned her look, knowing it was neither one of them were at fault.
"Of course," Ron replied, placing a peck on Hermione's lips, before she left the room.
...
Another hour later, and all three of them end up in Ron's bed. Hermione changed into her pajamas, while Rose laid in just her nappy on her chest. Hermione covered the tot with her blanket, as the tot slept with her dummy and lamb snuggled against her. Ron had taken a cool shower, returning to his room.
"Is she feeling any better?" Ron questioned quietly, not wanting to wake their daughter.
Hermione sighed, "Probably not. She was sick again in the tub, and I finally got her to sleep, but, she didn't act like she felt any better." Hermione brought her hand to brush across her daughter's curls, "I'm just hoping that if she gets sick again, that I wake up in time to get a bowl under her, and not get any of it on me," she chuckled slightly.
Ron slid into bed with them, turning on his side to face the two. Hermione continued running her hand soothingly down Rose's back. Turning her head to face him, she exhaled, "I really thought tonight was going to be it," she whispered.
Ron gave her a knowing smile, understanding the witch completely, "Tonight just wasn't the night for us, apparently." He pushed up, supporting his weight on his arm resting on the mattress. His other, cradled the witch's face. He lightly brushed his thumb over her cheek, leaning in to kiss her firmly.
"I love you. I'll wait as long as I need to. To me, it's only you, love," Ron whispered against her lips, causing Hermione to meet his again.
"I love you too. But, I'm not sure how much longer I'll be able to do this…" the witch looked deeply into his eyes. Ron knew exactly what she was talking about. He felt the urgent need to be with her as well. He wasn't sure how he had managed to keep his hands, among other body parts, to himself, for so long, and still be sane.
"We'll figure it out. Let's just get some rest now. It's going to be a long night," Ron kissed her once more, before lying back down next to her.
A/N: One more chapter after this! Can you believe it? I would love to hear your ideas for the final chapter. I am so excited for that one! Please show this story your love and leave a review, won't you? I so appreciate all your support!