Authors Note: Happy new year to you all! As always thanks for reviewing, and to my beta for editing this. The words of the wedding ceremony were taken from with a few changes by my beta and me.
Chapter Eleven
"What do you think?" Draco turned to Theodore Nott, who was lounging in an arm chair at his ease, the Daily Prophet lying open on his lap.
"Stop fussing, you look fine." Theodore barely glanced up from the paper as he spoke. "Blimey, the Prophet's having a field day about this marriage of yours."
"They've been at it all week; it's nothing new. No doubt they'll tire of it once it's all over." The nervous blond glanced once more into the mirror to check his hair was tidy.
"I doubt it; you've always generated a lot of interest, and so has Granger. Throw in a child whose paternity they know nothing about, and they go mad."
Draco bit back a sigh; his friend had been talking in this vein since he had arrived at the Manor the night before. "Of course they know about her paternity - it says it in there." He thumbed over his shoulder at the newspaper before turning back to the mirror.
"Oh, that," Theodore made a dismissive sound in his throat. "That's only what Granger's told them, but you don't honestly believe it, do you? I mean, come on, this is the first time that anyone's heard of this husband of hers, and that's a bit odd considering what a well-known figure she is. Hell, most of us didn't even know she had a kid who's almost five."
"Maybe she thinks that her private life should remain just that - private." Draco readjusted the collar of his robes as he spoke. "After all, not all of us want our every move splashed over the papers. As for Aurora, I've known about her for ages now. Just because the rest of the world didn't is no sin you know." He frowned at Theodore through the mirror. It was perfectly understandable that his closest friend wanted to know his reasons for the marriage, but right then, butterflies had taken up residence in his stomach, making rational thought impossible. What if Hermione changed her mind and called it off at the last minute? He wouldn't put it past her to do that.
"I know that, but still, it's odd. What's even odder is that you're marrying Granger and giving her kid your name, and that definitely isn't like you! The day you do something for altruistic reasons will be the day that you'll fight for the freedom of house elves."
Theodore's voice pulled him from his thoughts, and he smiled in spite of himself. "Now that's not nice. I'm a very generous person at heart."
"Yeah, only if there's something in it for you, so come on, out with it. Why are you marrying Granger, and giving her child your name?" The man was like a dog with a bone, never giving up until he got what he wanted. It was one of the things that held their friendship together, even though Theodore now lived in Holland, and had done so since leaving school.
"Because I like Hermione, and think we can get on well together. As for Aurora, she's a nice child who needs a father." Draco knew full well that Theodore didn't believe this trite explanation, but he didn't feel like going into the intricacies of the matter right before the wedding. Theodore would work it out for himself when he saw Aurora.
"Right, whatever." The other man's brows were threatening to disappear in to his hairline as he spoke. "Incidentally, the photo of the kid isn't very clear; all you can see is a mane of brown hair, just like Granger's."
"You'll see her at the ceremony." Draco threw down his comb and glanced at the clock.
Theodore stood up, tossing the paper onto a low side table and adjusted his dress robes. "Now that you've finished primping and preening, we'd better go."
"There's nothing wrong with making one's self presentable for one's own wedding," Draco glanced once more into the mirror as he led the way out of the room.
"There's making oneself presentable and primping like a woman," Theodore grumbled as he followed the blond down the wide staircase of Malfoy Manor into the hall. "Where is the ceremony going to take place?"
"The Ceremony Hall by Worcester Cathedral of course. Come on or else we'll be late."
The two made their way to the Apparition chamber located behind the portrait of a knight, Disapparating with loud pops to appear a moment later in the foyer of a small and exclusive old magical building located to one side of Worcester Cathedral.
"It doesn't look like anyone else is here yet," Theodore remarked, glancing round the empty room. "It hasn't changed since my father's time."
At that moment, a door opened and a tall man dressed in sombre robes with a long white beard entered. "Ah, Mr. Malfoy and Mr. Nott, this is a pleasure."
"Entwhistle, it's nice to see you. Has anyone else arrived yet?" Draco asked the old caretaker anxiously.
"Only the people from the Daily Prophet. If you would like to come into the antechamber, it will be more comfortable. You can wait in there."
"Trust the Prophet to get here before anyone else. I wonder whom they've sent; maybe Rita Skeeter?" Theodore suggested.
"No, it won't be her, for she's in Birmingham for some fashion event. I checked."
They followed Entwhistle's upright figure into the next room. This too, had a high ceiling with chairs dotted about. Tapestries of old castles hung on the walls, and a large clock stood to one side, ticking away the seconds. A man and woman were standing by one of the tapestries, the man with a large camera slung round his neck. On seeing Draco and Theodore, they moved forward.
"Mr Malfoy," the woman smiled nervously, "I'm Rose Zella, reporter from the Daily Prophet and this is Len Thomas." She indicated the man with a nod.
"Good, I specifically said there were to be no more than two of you here." Draco threw the pair a sharp glance. "Now, you're to keep out of the way, no pestering questions or anything like that until after the ceremony." He knew he was being unnecessarily harsh on these two, who had yet done nothing to deserve it, but his nerves were getting the better of him, and what better way to vent them than on a couple of Daily Prophet reporters?
"Of course," Rose agreed hurriedly. "But you won't mind if we could have a quick interview with you and take a few pictures for the Prophet?"
"Once the ceremony's over, then yes, but before that, no."
Rose didn't argue. She couldn't have been more than 21 or 22, and was clearly nervous. The photographer threw him a filthy look, but like the reporter, didn't dispute the injunction.
Draco, too nervous to sit down, began to pace the room, trying not to look at the hands of the clock. He doubted that he had ever suffered from nerves such as these before. He wasn't nervous about the wedding, but about what might be going through his bride's mind at that very moment.
His mother had been more than happy to look in on Hermione to make sure that all was well as well as to hand over the Malfoy diamonds, leaving for the flat over an hour ago, but it didn't make him feel any better. He wondered if he ought to have dropped in himself, but when he had mentioned the idea to his mother, she had shaken her head, explaining that according to Muggle custom, it was bad luck for the groom to see his bride on the morning of the wedding.
His other main worry was the Rune Proclamation, as it was called. What if the runes glowed black after the ceremony? No, he wouldn't think about that, not until he had to.
The sound of the familiar pop of Apparition made him turn round to face the door. His Aunt Andromeda, Uncle Ted, and stepfather had all Apparated into the room beyond, and were now making their way into the antechamber, laughing and joking.
"Draco, how are you?" His Aunt swept across to him, and bending down, kissed his cheek. "I must say, you are certainly looking well. Where's Narcissa? I would have thought that she'd be here."
"I'm very well, thanks Aunt. Mother's at Hermione's, just making sure that all's well." He shrugged. "Where's Nymphadora? I thought she was going to be here."
"And she would have been, had she been able to get back from Siberia as planned," his uncle explained, stepping forward and shaking hands. "She was quite upset about missing the big day I can tell you."
"I bet she was," Draco muttered. Memories of his cousin's continual teasing, especially during his first year at Hogwarts when she had frequently visited the school to visit Professor Flitwick from whom she had been taking extra tuition in stealth and tracking charms for her Aura training, flooded his mind, but at the same time, he knew that she would have been genuinely pleased for him.
"Apparently, the mission she was on didn't go as planned, and it's taking longer than expected. Naturally, she asked her boss if she could come back and someone else take her place, but he wouldn't hear of it," Andromeda added, glancing round her. "I see the Prophet is here."
"Oh yes, they were here before we were." Draco smiled mirthlessly.
"How about the private photographer? You did hire one, didn't you?" his aunt asked.
"Mother would have had a fit if I hadn't. I hired Ranjit Dibpal; he should be here in a bit."
"I should think so too. Not to have a decent photographer on your wedding day; it's positively scandalous," she shook her head.
Tamping down his disappointment that his cousin couldn't attend, Draco turned to his stepfather who had been watching him thoughtfully.
"Was the journey alright, Steven?"
"Well, you know transatlantic Apparition, but here I am. I'm sorry I couldn't come yesterday with your mother as planned."
"Oh, that's okay; you're here now." Draco smiled at his dark-haired and rugged-looking stepfather. The man could be a little odd at times, but he made his mother happy, and that was what counted.
"I say, what's this girl look like? 'Cissa said something about her being a Healer." Steven looked hopefully around the room, as though to spy Hermione lurking in a corner.
"Yes, she works for Hanwell's hospital."
"My, my, top-class place that. She must have brains to get into a place like that." The American winked at his stepson and Draco grinned in spite of his nerves.
"Well I suppose so. She was always coming top of our class at Hogwarts, and is one of Hanwell's youngest healers."
"Hmm, I see. Brains are always an asset in a woman I say. Well, the best of luck to you, lad."
The sound of voices made them turn around. Entering the room were Harry and Ginny Potter, and Ron Weasley. All three were scowling, but said nothing. Hermione had probably made them promise to keep civil tongues in their head for this one day, and Draco sincerely hoped so. He didn't feel up to a spat with that lot today of all days.
"That's not Harry Potter is it?" Steven breathed into Draco's ear, eyes wide with interest.
"He's a friend of Hermione's," Draco replied, heart sinking. He had a nasty feeling he knew what was coming. Sure enough, the other man's next words confirmed his suspicions.
"Will you introduce me? I've always wanted to meet him."
"Well, I don't know him so…"
"Nonsense! 'Cissa says you were in the same year at Hogwarts, and played against each other in Quidditch, so of course you know him."
Draco refrained from pointing out that he couldn't stand Harry Potter, for he didn't think it would make any difference. Instead, deciding to get it over with, he strode over to where Harry and the others stood, his stepfather right behind him.
"Excuse me, Potter, my stepfather, Steven Fits-Gerald, would like to be introduced. Steven, this is Harry Potter." He hoped he didn't sound too disdainful as he introduced the four-eyed git. .
"It's a pleasure to meet you," Steven smiled, stepping forward and holding out his hand.
Harry's eyes widened as he stared at the older man. "Are you the Steven Fits-Gerald who owns the Silver Arrow Broom Company?"
"I sure am." The older man looked pleased.
Harry's gaze moved from Steven to Draco, the speculation in them evident. Before he could say anything else however, the fireplace behind him came to life, and stepping out of the green flames was Narcissa Fits-Gerald, clutching Aurora tightly to her.
"Mother, there you are." Draco hurried across to them looking relieved. "Is everything okay?"
"Oh yes." Narcissa leaned forward and emulating her sister, kissed his cheek. "Just a slight last minute hitch with Hermione's robes, but it's all been taken care of." She brushed some lint from Aurora's silvery silk robes as she spoke.
"Hello, my angel, how are you?" Draco scooped the child up and hugged her tightly.
"I'm okay, but Mummy's not feeling well." She gave him a worried look as she spoke.
"She's fine; just had an attack of last minute nerves," Narcissa said bracingly. "It's perfectly common in brides. I gave her a few drops of the Marshall calming draft and she was as right as rain."
From the corner of his eye, Draco saw the squat form of Ranjit Dibpal entering the room. The man was the best photographer and portrait painter that money could buy, and nothing less than the best would do today.
Behind them, the fireplace came to life again, and a tall man wearing a suit and tie stepped out on shaky legs. Clearly, travelling by Floo wasn't agreeing with him. This, Draco guessed, must be Hermione's father.
"Gwandad, are you okay?" Aurora asked, watching the man intently.
"Yes, poppet, just fine," John Granger muttered, taking deep, steadying breaths. His colour was slowly returning, and he straightened up, looking round him.
"Where's Hermione?" The knot in Draco's stomach tightened as he stared into the fireplace while lowering Aurora to the floor.
"Oh, she is going to use a Portkey and bring her mother with her. We didn't think it was a good idea for her to travel alone on her wedding day. Shall we get ready? She'll be here in a few minutes and then we can get started." Narcissa moved over to her husband as she spoke, linking her arm with his.
There were nods of agreement, and the group moved towards the double doors to one side of the room, Aurora falling back to walk beside her still pale grandfather.
Stepping into the room beyond, Draco looked around him. The room was large with a vaulted ceiling. Stain glass windows, similar to those of the cathedral opposite, depicted noteworthy witches and wizards of the past; amongst them were Merlin, Morgana, and Paracelsus. The floor was made of an ancient wood, into which were carved strange symbols and runes. The place gave off an air of ancient and powerful magic, and Draco shivered in spite of himself. The age of the building was not known, although it was thought to have been built a hundred years or so before Hogwarts.
His attention was drawn to the narrow stone table in the centre of the room, which, according to his father, had been there for as long as Hogwarts had been standing. This too, had carvings of runes and symbols on it, and all marriages of any note, had taken place across it. Even the Weasleys, who loved all things Muggle, had all married here. Stone benches stood to either side of the table; those facing north for the relatives of the groom, and those facing south for those of the bride.
Taking his place facing north by the foot-wide table, he watched as Theodore, plus his mother, stepfather, and aunt and uncle, seated themselves on the bench behind him. Opposite him, the Potters, Weasleys, and Hermione's father were seating themselves. Aurora was seated beside Hermione's father, and catching her eye, Draco smiled at her. After a moment, she smiled back, although she looked nervous, her eyes travelling warily round the large room with obvious agitation.
Everyone looked towards the antechamber expectantly, and a few people jumped when the sound of someone Portkey-in into the building reached them. A moment later, the doors were pushed open by a woman who looked like an older version of Hermione, but with slightly greying hair, and eyes that were blue rather than brown. She was smartly dressed in a two-piece outfit, and made her way to the empty seat beside Aurora, looking around her with interest.
All eyes now turned to the figure of the woman following her. Hermione looked pale but composed as she walked towards them, her robes swishing with every movement. She reminded Draco of an ice queen, her expression frozen into implacability as she took her place opposite him. The amethyst shade of her fitted silk robes highlighted her chestnut-coloured hair, and illuminated her pale skin while the diamond and platinum tiara, earrings, and necklace traditionally worn by all Malfoy brides, glinted in the light from the stain glass windows, and added to her air of aloofness.
"Are we ready to start?"
A man, tall and thin, and dressed in robes of pure white, stepped forward to stand at the head of the stone table. He was the same priest who had officiated at Draco's parents' marriage ceremony almost thirty years ago.
Both Draco and Hermione placed their palms flat on the stone table within two carved lines running from one side of the table to the other. The lines were about a foot apart and Draco glanced down at his hands to make sure they were exactly parallel to the lines. Opposite him, Hermione did the same. Then they nodded, and he cleared his throat.
"We have come together here in celebration of the joining together of Hermione Jane Granger and Draco Abraxius Malfoy." The priest's voice rang out in the silent room, deep and commanding, and no one moved. "Much wisdom concerning the joining together of two souls, has come our way through all paths of belief, and from many cultures. With each union, more knowledge is gained, and more wisdom gathered. Though we are unable to give all this knowledge to these two who stand before us, we can hope to leave with them the knowledge of love and its strengths, and the anticipation of the wisdom that comes with time. The law of life is love unto all beings. Without love, life is nothing; without love, death has no redemption. Love is anterior to Life, posterior to Death, initial of Creation, and the exponent of Earth. If we learn no more in life, let it be this."
His gaze swept the group, and the stillness in the room increased. Even the reporter from the Daily Prophet was still, her quill clutched in tense fingers.
"Marriage is a bond to be entered into only after considerable thought and reflection. As with any aspect of life, it has its cycles; its ups and its downs, its trials and its triumphs. With full understanding of this, these two have come here today to be joined as one in marriage." His eyes lingered on the couple standing at either side of the table, and Draco could have sworn the old man could read both their thoughts.
"Above you is the sky, below you the earth. Like the sky, let your love be free, and full of movement and change. Like the earth, let your love be solid, firm, and nourishing. Give your hearts, but not into each other's keeping. Even in anger, remember your love and your commitment to each other. Make love often, and be passionate with one another. Walk the path of life together, but if ever you part, remember that the bond of friendship is the strongest between you. Be free in giving affection and warmth. Have no fear, and let not the ways of the unenlightened give you unease, for God is with you always." His voice was quiet now but no less clear.
He turned to look at Draco. "Draco Abraxius Malfoy, I have not the right to bind you to Hermione Jane Granger, only you have this right. If it be your wish, say so at this time.
"It is my wish." Draco looked directly at Hermione as he spoke but she did not meet his eyes.
"Hermione Jane Granger, I have not the right to bind you to Draco Abraxius Malfoy, only you have this right. If it be your wish, say so at this time."
There was a barely perceptible pause before Hermione said in a quiet, but resolute voice, "It is my wish."
The priest continued, "Hermione Jane Granger, if it be your wish for Draco Abraxius Malfoy to be bound to you, place the ring on his finger."
With a hand that was not quite steady, Hermione took the traditional Malfoy platinum wedding band from the priest, and leaning forward over the table, placed it with fumbling fingers on Draco's left ring finger.
"Draco Abraxius Malfoy, if it be your wish for Hermione Jane Granger to be bound to you, place the ring on her finger."
Taking the smaller, but no less impressive, Malfoy platinum wedding band from the priest, Draco leaned forward and slipped it onto Hermione's left ring finger.
Straightening, he smiled before saying in a clear, carrying voice, "I, Draco Abraxius Malfoy, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, and by the life that courses within my blood, and the love that exists within my heart, take you, Hermione Jane Granger, to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire you, and be desired by you; to possess you, and be possessed by you, without sin or shame, for nothing can exist in the purity of my love for you. I promise to love you wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in riches and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change you in any way, I shall respect you, your beliefs, your people, and your ways as I respect myself."
He saw there was a sheen of tears in Hermione's eyes, and knew that the words had affected her as deeply as they had him.
She took a deep breath before responding in a shaky voice. "I, Hermione Jane Granger, in the name of the spirit of God that resides within us all, by the life that courses within my blood, and the love that exists within my heart, take you, Draco Abraxius Malfoy, to my hand, my heart, and my spirit, to be my chosen one. To desire you and be desired by you, to possess you and be possessed by you, without sin or shame, for nothing can exist in the purity of my love for you. I promise to love you wholly and completely without restraint, in sickness and in health, in riches and in poverty, in life and beyond, where we shall meet, remember, and love again. I shall not seek to change you in any way, I shall respect you, your beliefs, your people, and your ways as I respect myself."
There was a silence, and Draco felt an odd sensation sweep over him. This was it, the moment of truth! At the same time, the runes carved in the floor and table before him, seemed to glow with a bluish light. The stone table beneath his hands vibrated and began to omit heat, which radiated into his palms and up his arms to travel through his whole body. Around him, everyone held their breath, all eyes fixed on the glowing runes. After a few seconds, the light changed colour to a dull grey, first dimming until it was hardly visible, then brightening until it glowed pure gold before fading completely. Draco felt the heat of the table dim with the light, and then increase in intensity as the runes before him glowed gold. Then it was gone, and he was left with the cool stone of the table under his palms.
The priest smiled and continued. "By the power vested in me by God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. May your love so endure that its flame remains a guiding light unto you." He shot both a penetrating glance, and Draco was only too aware as to its meaning.
Around them, people were getting to their feet, his friends and family all smiling broadly while Hermione's family and friends wore guarded looks that were hard to read.
"You need to kiss your bride, Draco," his aunt said from behind him, her face alight with pleasure.
That was all the prompting he needed. Moving swiftly round the table, he turned a still dazed Hermione to face him, and raising her chin with a finger, bent and pressed his mouth to hers. She stood unresponsive in his embrace, and after a moment, he straightened reluctantly, although didn't release her. There was a time and place to coax a response from her, and this was not it.
"Congratulations to you both," Narcissa beamed, stepping forward and hugging each in turn. Then to Hermione, "Welcome to the family, my dear, you don't know how happy your marriage has made me."
"Hmph."
Draco turned, his arm still around Hermione to see Ginny Potter standing behind them, unsmiling. Stepping forward, she too, hugged Hermione while ignoring him.
"So the deed is done," she said quietly.
"Yes." Hermione's voice was also quiet, but determined.
"No surprises?"
Hermione shrugged. "No, not really."
"Well, I hope things work out as you'd like them to," she shot Draco a cool glance as she spoke, which he returned.
He felt annoyance bubbling up inside him. Trust Ginny Potter to be so pessimistic, but then what else could he expect from Hermione's friends? His lips curved in a smile as he remembered the way the runes had glowed pure gold before the light had faded from them. They certainly hadn't done that during her wedding to Potter!
"Mummy?" Aurora stood behind them, looking wary while Hermione's parents stood on either side of her, eyeing him speculatively.
Withdrawing herself from Draco's arm, Hermione turned to the wide-eyed child and hugged her.
"So are you really mawied now like everyone else's Mummies and Daddies?" Aurora asked curiously, while eyeing them with interest.
"Yes, just like them," Hermione affirmed. Then, turning to her parents, she said, "Mum, Dad, you haven't met Draco. Draco, these are my parents, John and Alison Granger."
"It's nice to meet you at last." Draco shook hands with the older couple. "I've heard lots about you both." In truth, it had been from Aurora that he had gleaned what little information he could about his in-laws. Hermione had never discussed them, other than to say they would be at the wedding.
"I hope you're both happy together," John Granger said stiffly. "Hermione and Aurora deserve nothing but the best."
"I couldn't agree more," Draco smiled reassuringly at his father-in-law.
"If you don't mind me asking, but what did the glowing of all those shapes mean?" Alison Granger nodded at one of the runes etched into the floor by her feet.
"Well, the shapes represent the different strengths looked for in a marriage," Hermione explained. She seemed to have shaken off the numbness that had engulfed her until now. "They're called runes, and are used during the ceremony itself. The colour and strength of the light they omit at the end is an indication as to how strong the marriage will be and so on."
Both Muggles were staring at her now. "What, so it's a prediction of how the marriage will turn out?" John asked with interest, his mistrust towards Draco forgotten for the moment.
"It's an indication of how it could turn out, the different colours of light denote all the possible outcomes," Draco responded.
"So what did the different colours mean then?" Alison asked, wide-eyed with interest.
At that point, Ron Weasley who had come up behind them while they were talking, said, "Oh, people don't set too much store by that nowadays. I wouldn't worry about what those colours meant."
Draco snorted, trust Weasley to try and deny the evidence of his own eyes. He would have delivered a scathing retort, but his mother laid a hand on his shoulder, forestalling him.
"The Prophet would like to take photos now, Draco. Once that's done, they can go and leave us be."
"Of course." Hugging Hermione and Aurora to him, he led the way out of the room into the small flower-bedecked garden located to the back of the hall.
It was rumoured that this garden was as old as the building behind which it stood. Many of the flowers that grew there could not be found anywhere else in the country, their scents heady in the afternoon sunlight. A lake smooth as glass, stood to one side of the garden, the sun's light refracting off its shimmering surface. The mellow brick walls were covered with a flowering creeper, which was thought to have been imported from Egypt over 900 years ago. Birdsong, sweet and melodic, drifted to them, although the birds themselves could not be seen amongst the green foliage of the trees.
Draco felt as though he was stepping back in time a few hundred years, and looked around him in appreciation. The garden felt ancient, as though the passing of time had not touched it.
"This place never loses its charm," Harry commented from behind Draco as they went to stand on the square of grass fronting the lake.
The two photographers now moved forward, cameras poised.
"Let's concentrate on the photos for the Prophet first," Draco suggested to nods of agreement from his family.
The group arranged themselves behind Draco, Aurora, and Hermione, while both photographers took photos of them from various angles.
"Could we have one of just the couple?" Len Thomas asked while adjusting the lens of his camera.
Draco moved to stand beside Hermione, drawing her possessively against him. For a moment she stiffened, but seemed to think better of protesting when she saw that the photographer was watching them avidly.
"Smile, my dear," Draco murmured as the cameras flashed.
"Now, one with the child as well." Len Thomas nodded towards Aurora, and putting out an arm, Draco drew her to his other side.
Soon the photographer stepped back, his work completed. "This should keep the Prophet happy. I wish you both well."
Ranjit Dibpal now began to take pictures of Hermione and her friends and family, and once he had finished with the now thoroughly irritable group, turned to Draco and his family, putting them through the same process. The pictures of Draco and Hermione seemed to take an age as the photographer shot them in different lights. He also took quite a few pictures of Aurora, and she made the most of it, smiling unselfconsciously into the camera.
Finally, he too, stepped back, and the whole group breathed a sigh of relief.
"Could I have a quick interview?" Rose Zella, who had been watching proceedings, now stepped forward, quill at the ready.
Draco sighed, but nodded. "Please keep it brief," he instructed, and she turned to Hermione.
"Healer, I understand that you won't be adopting your husband's name. Is there a reason for this?" the young woman asked tentatively.
Hermione shrugged. "It's easier for me professionally if I retain my own name."
"And your little girl?" Rose cast a curious look at Aurora, whose attention was fixed on a blue and white-petalled flower by the water's edge.
"She is taking the Malfoy name," Draco answered, smiling.
The reporter nodded and turned to him. "Mr Malfoy, how do you feel about your wife working? I believe that to date, Malfoy brides have never worked."
"Well, I'd hate to stop Hermione working, as long as it doesn't interfere with her role as a mother of course. We're both firm believers in putting our family first, and now that she doesn't have to worry about supporting herself financially, she can devote more time to Aurora, and any future children we may have." He couldn't help adding this last, and glancing at Hermione, saw that her expression was more resigned than annoyed.
"So there will be more children then?" An eager Rose asked.
By now, the group surrounding them were all listening avidly to the conversation, some frowning while others smiled in pleasure.
In the interest of diplomacy, Draco decided to hedge a little. It would never do to annoy Hermione half an hour after their wedding. So far, she was taking things better than he could have hoped, and he didn't want to change that. He could expound on his plans for a family at a later date but for then, it was best to play it safe. "Well now, that's jumping the wand a little. Who knows?" he shrugged.
"But Mr Malfoy, surely you'd like an heir to carry on the family name?"
"Of course, but as I said, it's a little early to be thinking about such things."
Rose shot him a disappointed look, but subsided. Then, taking a deep breath, she plunged in. "Until now, Malfoys have always married girls from all wizarding families, but you've broken with tradition. Why?"
Draco grinned to himself. He had hoped this question would come up. "Simply because I don't believe in all this pureblood nonsense. It was the main reason for the war, the effects of which we can feel to this day, and I certainly don't intend to let such outdated thinking rule my life. I'm sorry that the Malfoy name has been allied with such prejudicial attitudes in the past, but I can assure you that I certainly don't hold with such narrow beliefs." He drew Hermione against him, and bending, kissed her cheek.
"I wish you both a long and happy marriage," Rose beamed, tucking her quill into her pocket. "Thank you both for taking the time to answer the Prophet's questions." She moved away, the surly photographer in tow.
"Thank Merlin that's over," Narcissa said, stepping forward. "Draco, do you want any more photos here?"
"No."
"In that case, I hope you'll all come back to the Manor for tea," Narcissa smiled around at the gathering. Draco saw Potter and Weasley exchange glances, but both nodded, if a little reluctantly.
The group made its way back to the antechamber, Draco's arm draped casually around his wife, while Aurora walked on his other side chatting happily.
"It'll probably be easiest if I travel with Aurora by Floo, or would you like to take her?" he asked Hermione, who shook her head.
"I'd better not." She grimaced and looked down at her robes. "Something tells me it would take ages to get the soot off these, and I'd rather not risk losing the Malfoy diamonds in the Floo network."
"Perfectly understandable. Right, everyone," Draco turned to the people around him, "for those who don't know it, aim for the Apparition chamber of Malfoy Manor, and you should be okay. It's a small room with plain white bricks; easy enough to imagine."
Turning to Aurora, he scooped her up, and taking a fistful of Floo powder from a jar on the mantel piece, threw it into the flames.
"I love going by Floo," the little girl squeaked excitedly against his shoulder. "Is Mummy coming as well?"
"She's going to Apparate. Ready?" Aurora nodded, and Draco stepped into the green flames, arms clamped tightly around her small frame. "Malfoy Manor!" he called, and they were whisked into the maze of the Floo network.
As they slowed down, he stepped with practiced ease out of the hall fireplace of the manor, and looked around him. His mother and Aunt were already there, both beaming.
"I must say, the house elves have done you proud. There's a lovely spread in there." Narcissa indicated the dining room with a nod, holding out her arms for Aurora, who drew back against Draco. "Come on, sweetheart, aren't you going to give Grandma a cuddle?"
Draco suspected that his mother had been looking forward to this moment all day. She had talked endlessly of spending time with the little girl and spoiling her rotten since she had reached England. Glancing into Aurora's face, he saw that she was scowling.
"You're not my Gwandma," the child announced, sticking out her lower lip in a pout.
At that moment, the door of the Apparation chamber opened, and Hermione came out.
"The others are on their way," she said, glancing round. Then her eyes travelled between Aurora's mutinous face, and the expression of hurt Narcissa was trying her best to hide with little success.
Before she could open her mouth however, Aurora burst out, "Mummy, she says she's my Gwandma, but she's not, and I don't want to give her a cuddle, so there!"
Hermione sighed and turned to Narcissa. "I'm really sorry about this, I tried explaining all this to her, but she refused to accept that she has any grandparents other than my parents."
"Do you blame her?" Ron Weasley had pushed open the door of the Apparition chamber and was standing behind Narcissa.
"No one asked for your opinion, Weasley," Draco responded in a tight voice. He would have liked to have said a lot more to the git, but Weasley was a guest, and so he held his tongue.
Ron rolled his eyes to the ceiling. "Look, what I meant was you can't blame the kid for behaving as she does. No disrespect meant Mrs Fits-Gerald, but Aurora doesn't know you, and probably thinks that you're trying to take the place of her other grandmother."
"Oh no, I would never presume to-"
"But she's only a child, and she doesn't know that," the redhead explained as though talking to a five-year-old.
"You know, he's got a point, Cissy," Andromeda entered the conversation, eyes thoughtful as they rested on Aurora's scowling face. "She'll accept it in time, but today's already been a big upheaval for her."
Draco hated to admit it, but Weasley was probably right. Reminding himself to tackle the matter when they were alone, he turned to greet the rest of his guests who were filtering in through the Apparition chamber. Narcissa too, had decided to shelve the matter for the time being, and was soon herding people into the large formal dining room, slipping easily into the role of hostess for the occasion.
The room was large, with French windows letting in the afternoon sunlight. The long table that could easily seat fifty people had been removed, and four smaller tables had been placed at one end of the room. A huge buffet made up of delicacies, was laid out on two tables. A third table held a large variety of drinks, while a beautifully decorated wedding cake resembling Hogwarts Castle, complete with turrets and towers, stood in pride of place on the fourth table. The words 'Congratulations to Hermione and Draco on this special day, wishing you a long and fulfilling life together,' were picked out in icing that changed colours every few seconds across the front of the castle.
"Wow, who made the cake?" Harry asked of no one in particular, while staring in awe at the master piece of confectionary.
"Oh, a friend of mine knows a very talented baker in Louisiana," Narcissa informed him. "I got him to make the cake. I must say, I was rather impressed with it."
"We would have liked a cake like that for our wedding," Ginny chimed in sounding wistful, "but the bakery said it was impossible; no matter how many charms you put on it, the towers would still never stand up straight."
"At least it's not some mushy heart shape," Ron said, looking revolted.
Narcissa laughed. "I didn't think a heart-shaped cake would be appreciated somehow, no matter how much I liked the idea."
"I suggested it at Nymphadora's wedding, but she wouldn't hear of it." Andromeda shook her head. "Young people nowadays, no romance, any of you."
"Well now, Hermione, Draco, would you like to do the honours?" Narcissa beamed, as the newly wedded couple stepped forward.
Draco put a wide-eyed Aurora down, and then he and Hermione took hold of the silver cake knife, his fingers wrapped securely around hers, and cut into the cake to loud applause. Soon everyone was holding large plates of the confection and congratulating Narcissa in her choice of baker.
"Please help yourselves," Narcissa smiled around at the company. "The house-elves have been working throughout the night preparing this." What she didn't add, was that she too, had been up most of the night making final arrangements for the day she had looked forward to ever since Draco had graduated from Hogwarts. He doubted if she had had more than three hours sleep since she had arrived the day before.
Talk was stilted as people finished their cake and moved forward to help themselves to food. Hermione's friends had obviously decided to make the best of a bad job, and stood around clutching glasses of wine while looking ill at ease.
Draco felt a tap on his shoulder and found Theodore standing behind him, holding a glass of wine.
"Not bad," he commented, taking a sip, "some of the Malfoy vintage stuff, if I'm not mistaken."
"Well, it's not everyday that I get married."
Theodore nodded, and took another appreciative sip from his glass. "I'm surprised that one of them," he jerked his head towards Harry, Ron and Ginny, "hasn't caused a scene yet. They're not known for their ability to behave like adults."
"Oh, I think they're on their best behaviour," Draco grinned. "No doubt my wife has had a few words with them regarding their conduct."
His friend grunted, his eyes on Aurora's small form as she wended her way to Hermione's side, clutching a large plate of cake. "My, that is one precocious brat," he commented. "Bet she has an awful temper when she gets going, reminds me of someone else I know."
"Oh, who may that be?" Draco raised his eyebrows in assumed perplexity, watching Aurora demolishing her slice of cake with obvious relish.
"I wonder," Theodore grinned. Then, lowering his voice, he continued seriously, "How come you're only marrying Granger now? The child's five isn't she?"
"Simply because until two months ago, I didn't know of her existence, and even then, only found out by pure chance." Draco wasn't surprised that Theodore had put two and two together so swiftly; he would have expected nothing less of his observant and astute friend.
The other man's eyes widened. "But you must have had some idea? I mean, it's not like you to be so irresponsible where such things are concerned. Merlin, I remember how picky you were at school about bed partners. The steps you took to ensure there were never any consequences make me smile even now."
Ignoring Theodore's teasing, Draco shrugged. "Unfortunately, both fate and Hermione had other ideas." He knew he sounded bitter, but he couldn't help it.
"But how did Granger get away with it? I mean, no self-respecting witch would have a child out of wedlock, and she's not unknown to the public by any means. She would have needed your help surely."
"In the Muggle world, such things are accepted as the norm. She had a lot of help; the Weasleys and her parents babysat Aurora while she was at work. When Aurora joined my Aunt's nursery, they told everyone that Hermione had married and that he'd died in the war. Merlin only knows we lost enough people in that war, and everyone swallowed it."
"That's harsh, not seeing your own flesh and blood grow up." Theodore gave him a sympathetic glance. "I can't imagine not having watched my two during babyhood, and nothing can replace that. It's never plain sailing, especially when they're yelling their heads off in the middle of the night for no apparent reason while all you want to do is sleep, but it's worth every bit of it when they smile and coo at you, or take their first tottering step." His normally expressionless face had lit up, and Draco felt a pang of envy.
"You're telling me. I thought I'd go mad with rage when I found out."
"What did Granger have to say about it?"
"If it were left to her, I would have never known of Aurora's existence. It took every bit of manipulation I possess, and then some, to get her to agree to the marriage."
"Bloody hell, the woman's nuts. If it were me, I would have taken her to court over this."
Taking a glass of wine from a nearby table, Draco stared down into its clear depths. "I thought about it, but what would have been the point? There would have been endless scandal and Aurora would have suffered more than either of us."
"Plus the fact that you still fancy Granger, and a court battle wouldn't have been conducive to getting her into bed." Theodore smirked knowingly.
"There is that as well."
The other wizard looked across the room to where Hermione stood chatting to his stepfather, an arm draped over Aurora's shoulders. "Hmm, but you don't exactly strike me as the loving couple. If anything, I'd say Granger was going through with this under duress."
Draco shrugged again. "Let's put it this way - she's only recently realised what her being single will mean for Aurora, and didn't like the reality. If there's one thing I can't fault her on, it's her love for our child."
"So she opted for the security of marriage? That's convenient for you."
"Isn't it just."
The sound of the clearing of a throat behind them, made both men turn round to find John Granger watching them.
"Forgive the interruption, but could I please have a quick word?" the older man addressed Draco in a low voice. Theodore melted into the crowd, leaving them alone.
"Of course, let's walk in the rose garden," Draco responded, putting down his empty wine glass. He had expected this, and was prepared. Turning, he led the way out of the room onto the terrace that led down into the rose garden.
It was quiet there, the stillness broken by the busy droning of bees as they moved from flower to flower. The roses were in bloom, a riot of colours, the bushes clipped neatly back to reveal the full beauty of each flower.
"A charming garden; you must have some rare varieties here," John commented, looking around with interest.
"Yes, Father cultivated most of these. I don't know much about them myself, but keep the garden up as it's a nice place to sit and unwind."
"This house is very nice - has it been in your family long?"
"For the last two hundred or so years," Draco answered as they moved to sit on a bench fronting a sundial.
His father-in-law sighed and came straight to the point. "Look, I can't pretend I'm happy about this marriage. It's a recipe for disaster if you ask me."
"Why so?" Draco asked composedly. The man had wasted no time in saying what he thought; he must feel strongly about this.
"Heavens, boy, you can barely tolerate each other. When Hermione told us that you intended to marry, I couldn't believe my ears. This business of children from single families not being accepted in the wizarding world, I can't believe is so bad that you need to resort to marriage!"
"Mr Granger, I understand what you're saying, but-" Draco began, but was cut off.
"I can understand that you want to see Aurora grow up, she's a lovely child, and you want to be part of her life. But how about my girl? What of her?" John fixed him with a stony look, which Draco met calmly.
"Hermione? What about her?" he asked, confused.
"Well, you married her so as to have full access to Aurora; Hermione was quite candid about that. But what does Hermione get out of all this?"
The older man ran his fingers through his hair as he spoke, and Draco realised that he was a lot more worried than he was letting on. It was surprising really that he had not done something to try and hinder the ceremony. Draco knew that for peace's sake, he would have to at least try and put the man's mind at rest.
"Believe it or not Mr Granger, I care very deeply for Hermione. It's unfortunate how things turned out. In all innocence, I would have expected her to contact me as soon as she realised she was pregnant. I would have been more than happy to have married her then and there, but she didn't. I didn't know of Aurora's existence until two months ago, after which time I did everything in my power to make it up to both of them." He looked into the other man's eyes, willing him to believe him.
"Surely you didn't expect her to contact you? I mean…well…" John broke off, but Draco didn't need him to finish his sentence.
"I'm sure Hermione's told you that the potion she mistook for a date rape potion was nothing more than a standard calming draft which can be bought from any apothecary," he countered calmly.
John nodded. "Yes, she did explain. But I still don't understand why you felt the need to use it."
There was a silence as Draco thought about this. He was tempted to change the subject, but instinct warned him to tell the truth, well at least some of it, to this man. He could prove to be a useful ally in the uphill struggle he would have with his wife regarding certain matters.
He leaned forward, his expression earnest. "To be honest, I just wanted her to give me a chance. At school and beyond, Weasley and Potter made sure that I didn't get within fifteen feet of her, and what chance I did have, was often taken away by her own attitude. During the party, all I intended to do was get her to relax enough, so she would let go of some of that prejudice so that we might have a decent conversation that didn't involve taunts or sneers."
"I see." John was looking at him with a slight frown, eyes narrowed in thought. "So things didn't go as you had expected them to at the party then?"
"Well, the drink was flowing freely," was Draco's evasive response, but John nodded.
"Tell me," he began, "if Hermione had come from a pureblood family, what would their reaction have been to an unplanned pregnancy such as hers?"
"Well now, it would have depended largely on whether she was married. There are only two options open to single witches; either marry the father, or if that's out of the question, terminate the pregnancy." Draco replied bluntly, sitting back and watching the older man's reaction; he was not disappointed.
"But surely that can't be right…I mean the taking of a human life in such a way is comparable to murder. It isn't the child's fault it was conceived out of wedlock, so why should it suffer?" John retorted in a horrified voice.
"Not many do suffer that fate - fear of society's scorn stops witches from getting themselves into such a position."
"So it was Hermione's Muggle background that saved her?" John asked, slightly incredulous.
Draco nodded. "Yes, it's only now that Aurora's joined the wizarding world that the problem has come up." He sighed to himself; in his opinion, Muggle customs, a factor he had not considered, had been to blame for his prolonged separation from his wife and daughter, were a pain in the neck.
"We weren't happy when Hermione told us she was pregnant; in fact, I was extremely disappointed with her for not knowing better, but we'd never abandon her or force her to terminate the pregnancy." John shuddered in revulsion.
"That's the difference between the wizarding and Muggle worlds; we're a lot less tolerant of such things than you are. I'm not saying it's right, but to get anywhere in the wizarding world, you have to conform to its rules."
"Hence the reason for the marriage," the older man replied dryly.
"Mr Granger, please believe that I'll do everything in my power to make Hermione and Aurora happy," Draco said, his eyes never leaving the other man's face. John returned his look, and for a moment, there was silence. Then he nodded.
"You know, I believe you will. I'm glad we've cleared the air; I feel a lot better about this marriage now," he smiled wanly. "I can't say that I approve of either of your reasons for going through with this, especially Hermione's, but at least now I know the main reason why."
Draco smiled in relief. He understood only too well what the other man was getting at. Hermione had made it clear that she was going through with this marriage for Aurora's sake alone. At least he could honestly say that he intended to make a go of it, in every sense of the word, but his wife's sentiment's on the matter were not so broad - a fact that her perceptive father had not failed to notice.
"I'm glad; it will certainly help. We'd better go back or they'll start wondering where we are."
"I suppose so."
They got up and made their leisurely way back into the dining room to be met by an anxious Hermione.
"There you are. I was starting to get worried." She glanced between them and frowned. "Where were you and why did you disappear off like that?"
John rolled his eyes and turned to Draco. "Women, you can't get any peace from them. Are you sure you know what you've let yourself in for?"
"Gwandad, Daddy, where were you? We were looking for you," Aurora stood before them, frowning as she stared from one to the other.
John grinned. "I rest my case!"
Draco returned his smile. "Oh, I think so."
"Draco, Harry and Ginny are leaving," Hermione said, taking his arm and leading him over to the other couple who were chatting enthusiastically to Steven Fits-Gerald and Ted Tonks about Quidditch.
"Ah, Malfoy, there you are." Harry stepped forward. "We've got to go but thought we'd say goodbye before we left."
"Thanks for coming," Draco replied in a stilted voice. He noticed that Potter had not wished them luck, but then there was nothing new about that.
"Well, we couldn't miss Hermione's wedding, now could we?" Ginny frowned. "We'll speak to you soon, Hermione, take care." Then turning to Aurora, she hugged her too. "I want to hear that you've been on your best behaviour, Minx."
Aurora smiled back innocently, a look which fooled none of them. "Of course Auntie!"
They all moved out into the hall, and Harry smiled at his long time friend. "You know where we are if you need us." Both hugged Hermione and Aurora tightly before entering the Apparition chamber, and with loud cracks, Disapparated.
"Hermione, I'm off too. Take care of yourself okay?" Ron hugged Hermione and Aurora and nodded stiffly at Draco before moving to the Apparition chamber while waving.
"Why is it that everyone decides to leave in one go?" Hermione asked as Ron disappeared.
"I suppose they were all waiting for someone to make the first move."
The words were no sooner out of Draco's mouth before the Grangers and Tonks's came into the hallway.
"Hermione darling, we too, will have to head home. I have to start baking for tomorrow's church fete." Mrs Granger hugged her daughter. "I wish you both the best of luck, and hope to see you soon. She shook hands with Draco. "It's been lovely meeting you, my dear, I wish you both a happy and fulfilled marriage."
"Thank you, Mrs Granger. I look forward to getting to know you better." Here at least was one of Hermione's family who seemed happy for them.
"Bye Gwanma," Aurora chipped in.
"There's no need for all this formality, you're part of the family now," John said to Draco while ruffling Aurora's curls. "You be good now, young lady!" Then to Draco he said, "The best of luck to you lad; you'll need it with these two." He indicated his daughter and granddaughter with a smile.
"Now, Dad," Hermione interjected, "that's not very nice."
Smiling, the Grangers said their goodbyes and left using the Floo, both waving as the green flames whipped them out of sight.
"I'm so happy for you." Andromeda now stepped forward. "Best of luck to you both."
Ted smiled at Hermione, and clapped Draco on the shoulder. "You must both come round for lunch sometime soon."
The Tonks's said their farewells and were soon gone, leaving the newly married couple and Aurora standing in the hall.
"Well now, shall I show you your rooms?" Draco asked watching the nervous expressions that passed between mother and daughter.
"Yes, of course," Hermione replied stiffly.
"Right then, let's go." Taking Aurora's free hand, he led them up the handsome curving staircase of the manor onto the first floor.
"Aurora's room is opposite the master suite," he explained as he led them down a broad corridor. "Here we are!" He threw open the door to a spacious room, done out in bright yellows and reds. The large windows had wide-padded window seats, and looked out onto the velvety lawns of the manor. The curtains of the four-poster bed were drawn back, revealing pictures of the characters of the Shiny Show on the duvet. Through an open door, they could see the bathroom, the silver of the taps glinting in the early evening sunlight.
Fitted wardrobes lined another side of the room, and seeing Hermione's gaze on them, he informed them, "Your luggage has already been unpacked."
He didn't add that he intended to discard the clothes they had bought with them and have them fitted out with the best money could buy. That piece of information could wait for later.
Aurora let out a loud squeal and jumped on to the bed with glee. "Wow, it's massive!" she exclaimed, bouncing up and down on the mattress.
"Aurora, stop that," Hermione admonished with a frown.
"Do you like it, Princess?" Draco asked eagerly, trying not to smile at her antics.
"Oh yes, it's bwilliant. It's much better than the bedroom Uncle Harry and Aunty Ginny are getting weady for their baby!"
"That's because you don't like the same things the baby will," her mother explained, hauling her off the bed and straightening the rumpled duvet as well as the child's robes, which had become wrinkled.
"I hate wobes!" she glowered and pulled away. "I wanted to wear twousers but-."
"Let's not start that now!" Hermione cut her off briskly.
"Would you like to see your room now, Hermione?" Draco asked with amusement.
Aurora's attention was diverted and she turned to him. "Oh yes, let's see Mummy's woom now."
He led them across the corridor and pushed open another door. The room in to which he ushered them was large and decorated in cream and blue. Fitted wardrobes lined one wall, and the open door beside them showed a bathroom. The door opposite was closed, and the two females glanced towards it.
"Where does that go to?" Aurora asked curiously, indicating the door with a jerk of her head.
"It leads into my room," Draco answered calmly, walking across the thick Persian carpet and opening it.
"Why do you have wooms next to each other?" she asked.
"Because that's what Mummies and Daddies do," he replied.
Aurora frowned for a moment, but then shrugged and turned to her mother. "It's lovely, Mummy," she said, wandering across to the windows and gazing out.
"If there's something you'd like to change, please feel free." Draco smiled at Hermione as he spoke.
"Thanks, but it's really nice as it is. The only thing is, there doesn't seem to be anywhere I can use to store books. I suppose I could convert one of the wardrobes into a bookcase…" The comment was hesitant, and she bit her lip in thought, eyes skimming around the room for other places she could install shelves.
He laughed. "Hermione, trust you to think of books. I've set aside a room on this floor as your private study. You can cram as many volumes as you like in there."
XoXoXoXo
Silently, Draco closed Aurora's bedroom door and walked back to his own room, a smile on his lips. The house was quiet, everyone having retired to their own rooms. Dinner had been over three hours ago, and Aurora, tired out from the excitement of the day, had fallen asleep during the second course. Glancing at the clock, he saw it was 10:30. He wondered if Hermione was still awake, and after a moment of hesitation, walked across to the communicating door. A move of his wand later, he pushed it open.
Hermione was sitting at the small writing desk in the corner, but turned swiftly at his entrance. "What do you want?" she asked, standing up and facing him.
"I wanted to make sure you had everything you needed," he drawled, shutting the door behind him and advancing into the room. "I've just checked on Aurora and she's sound asleep."
"She's worn out from the excitement of the day."
Draco smiled, and sauntering across to the desk and glancing around, asked, "So, were you surprised at the outcome of the ceremony?" He was of course referring to the colours displayed by the glowing runes.
She took her time answering. "Well, not the grey or even the blue; they were to be expected, but the gold…"
"Hmm, yes, the gold… It was rather beautiful, was it not?"
She nodded.
"A surprising turn of events. Who would have thought that this marriage had the potential for real happiness and satisfaction for us?" He gazed at her as he spoke.
She sighed deeply. "Look, do you mind if we discuss this tomorrow? I'm exhausted."
"Of course, Hermione." He moved across the room and put his arms round her. "Good night, sleep well." Bending, he kissed her cheek before turning and exiting the room.
Once back in his own room, he moved to the windows and gazed out at the starry sky and the rising half moon, contemplating the events of the day, a smile of satisfaction playing about his mouth.
Things had gone better than he had dared hope. His daughter was finally where she belonged, and he was legally married to her mother! He thought back to the Rune Proclamation and how they had glowed gold. None of Hermione's friends had been pleased about that, but then why should they? He was well aware that they had hoped that they would turn black, the colour of despair and failure, and thereby provide a reason for the immediate annulment of the marriage. It wouldn't have been the first marriage to be annulled in this way by any means, and would certainly not be the last, as it was a regular practice for those marriages in which the runes glowed black.
His eyes fell on the communicating door between his and Hermione's rooms and he scowled. By rights, he should be in there with her, consummating their marriage, but he wasn't, at least not yet. However, he had plans, and swore to himself that soon, he would have all that he was entitled to, and more. Now that the runes had showed him the potential for this marriage, he would enjoy even more, the fruits of his labours.