CHAPTER SEVENTEEN
Summary: The battle is over and a marriage law has been put into effect due to the rapidly declining wizarding population. Under the law, Hermione is forced to marry at eighteen or face being exiled from the Wizarding World. Join Hermione as she has to deal with her past, whilst looking forward to the future, with the help of The Weasley Twins and rising Quidditch Star, Oliver Wood. Rated M for a reason.
Disclaimer: All original characters and canon events belong to J.K. Rowling. Non-canon events are my own ideas. I am not making any profit from posting this fanfic.
Updated: 19/05/20
Page count: 22
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes – Wednesday 29th July 1998
As Hermione sprawled on her old bed in the twins' flat, she was keeping the tradition of the groom not seeing the bride the day before the wedding, and whilst she was at the twins', Oliver had stayed at the apartment along with Quaffle.
In less than twenty-four hours she would be marrying Oliver at sunset and as she stared up at the ceiling, Hermione thought over the last few weeks and analysed everything that had happened. She'd been forced into marrying Oliver Wood. She'd dated Oliver Wood. She'd fallen in love with Oliver Wood. And now, she was marrying Oliver Wood but not because of the law, because she wanted to.
She lifted her hand, gazing at her engagement ring fondly as her thumb grazed the shiny surfaces of the precious stones, said to summarise herself and her relationship with Oliver.
And then, it suddenly hit her and she bolted upright.
"I'm getting married tomorrow," she said to herself before she climbed off her bed, walked into the living room and began to pace.
Fred and George looked up from their game of muggle cards and watched her carefully.
"What's the matter, Mia?" George asked.
"I'm getting married tomorrow," she muttered.
The twins shared a glance and then snorted.
"That's it? That's what got you wearing a track in our floor?"
"I'm getting married tomorrow!" Her voice rose as she halted in her pacing to send them a look of alarm before she resumed her pacing.
"Hermione, I don't see why you're getting yourself so worked up over this," said Fred, tipping his head in confusion.
"I'm getting married!" She cried.
"We've already established that," Fred said amusedly.
"I have no idea how to be a wife. I have no idea how to be a mother. I don't want to mess things up and have Oliver hate me. What if he gets sick of seeing me both at home and at work? We're around each other twenty-four hours a day. Oh God! I have to have sex with him!"
Fred and George's amusement quickly vanished and they grimaced, their skin paling.
"Umm, Mia, maybe you should talk to someone else about this" George said, looking nauseous.
She stopped pacing and looked at them. "Like who? Who's going to talk me through the finer points of sex? I'm a virgin, this topic's awkward enough without bringing a stranger into it," she demanded furiously.
Fred and George promptly stood from the couch, George grabbed Hermione by the hand and tugged over her to the fireplace whilst Fred reached for the floo powder and Hermione was nudged into the floo and Fred called out the address and she was swallowed by the flames.
"Little girl that plays with dollies," George said out loud.
"Thinks boys have cooties and would rather eat pickled toad eyes," Fred added.
They looked at each other and nodded happily, the colour returning to their faces.
~000~000~000~
Shell Cottage
Hermione stumbled out of the floo and barely caught herself on the couch before she took in her surroundings, realising that she was in the comfortable, familiar living room of Shell Cottage.
"Hermione, what're you doing here?" Bill asked with a smile as he walked into the living room.
"I have to have sex!" She cried.
His eyes widened and the colour drained from his face and in that moment, he knew the twins had sent her to him.
Grimacing, he grabbed her wrist and pulled her out of the room, along a corridor, up the stairs and he pushed her into his and Fleur's bedroom before he closed the door behind her and he slumped against it.
"I'm going to kill the bastards," he muttered. He shuddered before quickly leaving down the stairs; he didn't want to be anywhere near that room giving the conversation that was about to take place.
When the door closed behind her, Hermione took in her surroundings through her watery eyes. The walls were a soft green and white, a queen-sized bed sat against the back wall with green bedding and a white vanity table sat on the left wall with a window nearby. A walk-in closet was to the left of the vanity and there was a desk on the right wall with a door to the right that was closed but Hermione presumed it led to a bathroom.
Just then, the door opened and Fleur stepped out with her long, straight blonde hair cascading down her back and she wore a pretty white summer dress.
"Chérie?" Fleur asked in confusion, seeing her stood awkwardly in the room and with tears flowing down her face.
"I have to get married and have sex!" Hermione wailed and buried her head in her hands.
"Oh, Chérie," Fleur sighed, quickly crossing over to Hermione and hugging the smaller witch gently, rubbing comforting circles on her back and muttering assurances in her ear. Soon, Hermione's cries turned to sniffles and Fleur drew back from her and guided them to perch on the edge of the bed.
"I don't know how to be a wife, Fleur."
"Nonsenze, you will be a brilliant wife, it is ezactly the same zing you are doing now, only you will be Hermione Wood, not Granger. You have notzing to worry about," she assured her. Hermione's mouth tugged into a small smile. "As for sex," she started and Hermione couldn't stop the heat from flooding to her cheeks. "You are virgin, non?"
She nodded slowly. "I'm nervous and scared. What if I do it wrong? What if Oliver compares me to other women? You've seen him, he's told me that he's been with other women and I was afraid to know how many so I never asked, but you and I both know it'll be a fair amount. I don't want to disappoint him."
"Chérie, he loves you and you love him. He iz a gentleman and he will treat you well, he will take care of you and lead you through it until you are comfortable eznough to take your own iniziative. It will likely hurt ze first time and bleeding iz natzural, so don't be embarrassed. Don't allow zat brain of yours to overthink thingz. Shut it off and relax and let yourzelf enjoy the moment," Fleur advised calmly. "Fortunately for you, I know a few owners of ze best lingerie shops in Parie, zat will stay open longer for uz."
Fleur laughed at Hermione's flushed face and not allowing her the chance to argue, she took her hand, tugged her downstairs, pressing a kiss to Bill's cheek before she floo'd them to her parents' residence in Paris.
~000~000~000~
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes
Hermione stepped out of the floo feeling more at ease with herself, even though Fleur had dragged her kicking and screaming around Paris and into as many lingerie shops she possibly could. They'd talked a little more regarding Hermione's worries and fears and now she felt she was ready to marry Oliver. She knew Fleur was right. Oliver loved her and he would take care of her. Hermione and Fleur had purchased several items that Hermione would never admit to purchasing but upon Fleur's insistence that Oliver would more than appreciate it and that Hermione would feel comfortable, she did so.
"Are you feeling better?" Fred asked from the kitchen table where he and George were eating out of three pizza boxes.
She nodded, walked over to the table, sat down and took a slice of pizza.
"But I should slap you, she dragged me all the way to bloody Paris to go shopping," she grumbled.
George paled and Fred laughed until he realised the meaning behind her words and he groaned in annoyance.
"I'm eating here," he complained with a grimace.
"You're own fault," Hermione shrugged. "So, do you want to play some muggle board games with me for old time's sake?"
The twins happily agreed and they moved their food to the living room and Hermione summoned the muggle board games.
They spent all night and the early hours of the morning playing Cluedo, Monopoly, Scrabble, Pictionary, Snakes and Ladders, Jumanji and Hungry Hippos. They laughed, argued, had a pillow fight, Hermione hexed Fred for cheating and they fell asleep on the floor.
~000~000~000~
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes - Thursday 30th July 1998
Hermione was woken by Fleur pulling open the curtains and sunlight streamed into the room blinding her. She had no idea how she woke up in her bed given that she and the twins had fallen asleep in the living room.
"Fleur, what're you doing?" Hermione groaned sleepily. She cast a Time Charm on her wand and it revealed that it was half-past nine in the morning. Hermione groaned before burying her head under her pillow and pulling the blanket around her.
"It iz time for you to get up, we have a wedding to get ready for," Fleur said happily.
"I'm tired," Hermione grumbled.
"Then maybe you shouldn't have stayed awake all night with ze twins," chirped Fleur.
"We were having fun and reminiscing. Now, let me sleep!"
She heard Fleur's tinkling laughter and she knew she wasn't going to let her sleep.
"We have to get you ready," she insisted.
Hermione removed her head from under her pillow and looked to Fleur.
"The wedding isn't until sundown and it's summer, I've got at least eleven hours to ready. It can't possibly take that long to get ready. All I have to do is put on a dress."
Fleur tutted and shook her head. "You are in for a big surprize, Chérie," Fleur laughed.
"Please, Fleur, just let me sleep for a couple more hours and I promise I won't fight you when it comes to getting ready," Hermione pleaded; she wasn't above begging.
"Makeup and hair?" The blonde confirmed.
"Yes, I won't fight, I promise." Hermione gave her the best puppy dog look she could muster and she didn't feel ridiculous in doing so. It was justified.
"Very well, I suppose as ze maid of honour, zere are some things I could do. Two more hourz," she agreed.
"Love you" Hermione mumbled as she burrowed herself back under her covers.
She heard Fleur's laughter once more before the door closed and Hermione fell back to sleep.
~000~000~000~
Puddlemere United Stadium
Oliver stepped out of the floo with Quaffle and they made their way to the Coach's box.
He was getting married today. That was the first thought that hit him when he woke to Quaffle laid across the end of his bed. The thought scared him but he was also nervously excited to be marrying Hermione Granger. But that wouldn't be her name, would it? No, it would soon be Hermione Wood and that thought had his head spinning, heart pounding and length twitching. In fewer than twelve hours, he would be a married man.
He'd visited his father the night before with worries that he would mess things up with Hermione, worries that he wouldn't be a good husband, a husband Hermione deserved and after a long lecture from his father and talking things through with him, he no longer had doubts. He would do right by Hermione and he would love her and care for her. But he was particularly nervous about the wedding night... That night.
He'd been with his fair share of women but they'd all been experienced, he'd never been with a virgin. Simply because he didn't want the responsibility of taking such a thing and he didn't want to deal with the witch potentially becoming attached to him. But Hermione was different. She was a virgin and she was giving that part of herself to him. He knew from his Hogwarts days when his friends would talk about their conquests that a girl losing their virginity hurt. He didn't want to hurt Hermione but he knew it was inevitable, so he would do whatever it took to make her comfortable, to make it as painless as possible and to show her that he loved her.
As Oliver made his way down the stands, the team began cheering loudly and applauding.
"Here he comes, Mr. Oliver Wood, in his last few hours as one of Britain's most eligible bachelors!" Pallie called. Oliver snorted and rolled his eyes. "He'll soon be joining as the final member of the Puddlemere team to settle down and we'll be sad to see him let go of his bachelorhood, as we'll no longer be able to live vicariously through him. Hear the single women weep as Oliver Wood will be officially off the market," Pallie sighed dramatically.
"Thank ye fer the eulogy af me bachelorhood," he replied amusedly, "A cannae wait tae hear the best man speech."
"Oh, it will be enlightening," Pallie promised with a smirk.
Coach Burton slapped him on the shoulder. "How are you feeling Wood? Cold feet?"
"Even if he did, it's not like he has a choice of leaving our delightful Junior Coach at the altar, now, is it?" Bishop interrupted and they snorted.
"Nae, a don' have cold feet. A feel... Well, a don' know hoo a feel, a guess it's still sinkin' in," Oliver shrugged.
"You'll do fine. Have you written your own vows or gone traditional?" Coach asked.
"Hermione wanted us tae write our own but the law requires specific vows tae be recited so we're gonna do both."
"Well, the only thing you have to worry about is forgetting your vows. Everything else is left up to the bride and wedding planners," Coach chuckled. "We'll be finishing an hour early so we can leave and ready for the ceremony," he told everyone and the team cheered at the news.
"When's the ceremony again?" Thompson asked.
"Sunset, sometime 'round eight-thirty tonight. Guests should arrive an hour befere. An' a warning, this is Hermione's day. If yer partners so much as look at her the wrong way, a'll have them thrown out an' they'll be banned from the stadium," he said, his gaze darting between each of them and the team nodded in understanding.
"Right, let's start training, continue with the drills Junior gave you yesterday," Coach Burton ordered and the team flew to their positions but he kept Oliver back.
"Legally, you are obligated to take tomorrow off and I've spoken to the big bosses and they've agreed to give you Saturday off without taking it from your allotted amount of paid leave," he said but Oliver looked about ready to argue, "Just enjoy the weekend with your wife," he said, sending Oliver on his way.
~000~000~000~
Weasley's Wizard Wheezes
Hermione was awoken by Fleur for the second time that morning, pulling the blanket off her and the sudden temperature change made Hermione shiver and goosebumps erupted over her skin.
"Five more minutes," Hermione mumbled.
"I gave you two more hourz and now you have to get up," Fleur commanded.
"Why don't you go and torture the twins?" She half murmured, half cried.
"Zey are sleeping. Zey are not on a schedule like you are, and zey will wake long before the wedding on zer own. But you are much too busy, so get up!"
"I don't wanna," Hermione whined sleepily.
"Very well, I was hoping it would not come to zis," Fleur sighed, drawing her wand and mumbled a spell in French. Hermione bolted upright and yelped when an electric shock rocked through her body.
"That was mean and uncalled for," Hermione scowled and Fleur laughed lightly.
"It was justified," she argued, "Now, get up, we have plenty to do and not a lot of time to do it. "First we will eat lunch at ze Burrow, zen we will focus on nail care, I have a friend flooing from Parie to come and give uz massages, then we'll be having a home spa experience, followed by a relaxzing bubble bath, makeup, dressing and hair. Then we have to pose for ze photographer, ensure that everyzing iz going to plan, followed by you getting married."
Hermione blinked dumbly.
"Can you repeat that again but slowly?"
~000~000~000~
The Burrow
Hermione felt herself sink into the bathtub filled with bubbles and her favourite scented oils. Her entire body was relaxed after her massage and she could've very easily fell asleep in the hot water but decided against it, fearful of Fleur sending more unknown French spells her way. She stayed in the bubble bath for close to thirty minutes before she clambered out of the bathtub and hopped in the shower, washing away the bubbles, washing her hair and going about her usual routine and shaving her legs and underarms.
Stepping out of the shower, she slipped on the soft, fluffy bathrobe Fleur had left for her and she wrapped her hair in a towel and put on the fluffy slippers. Using her wand, she cast as many Glamours as she could to cover her scars before she headed to her old room at the Burrow, stepping through the door to see it had been transformed. All of the furniture had been shrunken down and placed in a box out of the way, a large vanity table and padded stool were positioned in the centre of the room with a wooden table off to the right that was filled with makeup and hairstyling products. There was a smaller vanity table off to the left of the one that was clearly meant for Hermione and there was a large mirror in the corner of the room that had been covered with a sheet and there were four clothing bags hung up on pegs on the wall.
Fleur was stood over the table rearranging the products on the surface and she was wearing a bathrobe similar to Hermione's, a pair of slippers and her hair was left damp, hanging down her back. Fleur looked up and smiled, ushering her to the seat in front of the larger vanity and as soon as Hermione took her sear, Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Wood entered the room, also wearing bathrobes and slippers.
"Let's get tae work," Mrs Wood said excitedly.
With that, Fleur set to work on Hermione and Mrs. Wood set to work on Mrs Weasley and Mrs. Weasley dressed in the bathroom whilst Mrs. Wood attended to her makeup and then she left to get dressed, too.
When they returned, they turned their attention towards fixing their hair before they left to check on the progress of the setup for the ceremony, all of the males being put to work to ensure it was all done quickly and efficiently, whilst the day before they'd been readying the reception venue at Wood Manor.
Once Fleur deemed Hermione beautified, Hermione moved to sit on the other vanity and Fleur took her seat and tended to her own makeup and once they were both finished, Fleur dressed in the bathroom in her bridesmaid dress, it fitting to her beautifully and complimenting her skin tone wonderfully. After making sure her dress was smoothed out and wrinkle-free, she helped Hermione into her wedding gown.
Fleur wouldn't let Hermione see her dress in the mirror until her hair had been done, so she removed the towel and dried Hermione's hair, styling it how she seemed fit. She left it to spill over her shoulders and down her back in soft, pinning it back and out of her face with pretty pins before something was placed atop her head.
Hermione used a little amount of makeup to cover the slur on her arm and once she was satisfied it couldn't be seen, she was ushered towards the large mirror, the sheet being removed and Hermione gasped when she saw herself. She had been completely transformed.
Fleur was gifted when it came to Altering Charms so Hermione wasn't all that surprised that her gown fit her perfectly. When Hermione lifted her eyes, it was to see a halo of white peonies and blue hydrangeas sat atop her head with her veil being clipped to it. Thankfully, Fleur had gone for a natural look knowing Hermione wouldn't be comfortable with wearing heavy makeup, and she was sporting a nude-coloured eye shadow that sparkled in the light, a light pink lip stain, a clear coat of gloss over the top and a faint blush covered her cheeks thanks to a small amount of blusher, and with a wave of her wand, Fleur charmed Hermione's makeup to stay in place until the next morning. For jewellery, she wore her diamond-studded earrings and her gold necklace with her mother's ring on and it rested over the valley of her breasts which had been pushed up considerably, largely to the dress and bra.
Hermione scrutinised herself and for the first time in her life, she felt beautiful and it she didn't what anyone might say or think. Before Hermione knew it, Fleur was helping her step into her heels that were fitted with Comfort and Balancing Charms and she readjusted the train of the dress.
"You look beautiful, Chérie," Fleur complimented with teary eyes.
"Thank you, I feel beautiful."
With the ceremony due to take place within the hour, Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Wood returned to the room and they gasped and rushed to Hermione, exclaiming how stunning she looked and Hermione blushed furiously at their compliments.
As the men were getting ready, Hermione was handed her bouquet of blue and white peonies and hydrangeas tied with a blue silk ribbon, before she was ushered out of the room and onto the grounds of the Burrow to meet with the photographer. Usually, Hermione felt uncomfortable being in the spotlight and having her picture taken but her smile came naturally that day with her feeling the way she did and surrounded by the people that she loved and cared for.
After having photos taken by herself with Fleur, Mrs. Weasley, Mrs. Wood and as a group, the twins made an appearance with Leo by their side. Fred and George were wearing identical dark blue muggle suits with white shirts, matching dark blue ties and waistcoats and black dress shoes. Leo was wearing a muggle suit, a shade lighter than the twins with a white shirt, the same blue tie and black dress shoes.
"You look..." They trailed off, speechless.
Hermione's smile widened. "Thank you," she said shyly. The twins being lost for words was the only compliment she needed.
They walked towards her and simultaneously they each kissed a cheek and she smiled, and at that point, they heard and saw the telltale sign of a camera flash and the photographer looked pleased with the memory he'd just captured. The twins drew back from her smiling proudly before more photos were taken now that they'd arrived.
"Leo, come here," Hermione called softly, holding out a hand for him expectantly.
He crossed over to her shyly and he took her hand, looking up at her. "You look really pretty, Hermione," he said with a blush.
"Thank you, Leo. You look very handsome," she smiled as she straightened out his tie. "Would you mind being in some of the wedding photos?" She asked and Leo's eyes widened.
"You want me to be in the photos?" He asked in surprise. Hermione nodded, smiling. "But won't Mr. Wood be mad?"
"No, Leo, he won't be mad. I suspect he would want to have some photos taken with you, also. You're a very special part of the wedding ceremony," she replied.
"I won't let you down, Hermione," he promised, hugging her around the waist tightly.
"I know you won't."
When Leo drew back from her, he was arranged into the photos, having photo's taking singly, with Hermione and the others, and then the time came for Hermione to return to the Burrow as the guests had long since started arriving and the photographer needed to take photos of Oliver and his wedding party.
Hermione and Fleur returned to her old bedroom and everyone else went about their tasks, Leo greeting guests with Fred, George and the rest of the Weasley men and Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Wood doing last-minute checks.
~000~000~000~
Oliver arrived at the Burrow with Pallie and Quaffle in tow. His father and Mr. Weasley were waiting for them. Whilst Oliver was dressed in his newly altered suit, Pallie wore a black muggle suit with a white shirt, a blue tie to match Oliver's and black dress shoes. Mr. Wood was wearing a black muggle suit, a white shirt, black tie and black dress shoes and Mr. Weasley had opted for black formal dress robes, a white shirt, black trousers and black dress shoes.
"Ye nervous?" His father asked, clapping him on the shoulder.
"A little," Oliver admitted and his father and Mr. Weasley chuckled at him.
"That's normal," they chorused.
"The photographer's waiting for us and the guests are arriving, we need to get the photos done and then we simply wait for the bride," Mr. Weasley said.
Oliver nodded and looked down at Quaffle. "Go find Hermione, Quaffle," he ordered and Quaffle barked before he sniffed the air and ran in the opposite direction, with Mr. Weasley then leading them out of the Burrow and to the same place Hermione had her photos taken.
Oliver smiled for photos by himself, with Pallie, his father and Mr. Weasley and they had group photos and it didn't take long before they made their way towards the lake where guests were being greeted and seated.
Oliver looked around, the sun had yet to set and it was shining against the water of the lake, the sky reflecting on its surface. Blue twinkling fairy lights had been placed in the surrounding trees and they glowed faintly in the daylight but he imagined they would be brighter when the ceremony started and the sun had set. There were white chairs on either side of the aisle with white and blue silk swatches attached to them and a white carpet had been rolled out for the aisle and a charm cast on it to make it seem as though you were walking on concrete, something he suspected was done for Hermione, so her heels wouldn't get caught in the mud. Tipping his head, he saw the familiar balls of light glowing softly in blues and white, something he recognised as being Hermione's spell work. At the end of the altar stood a white podium where the Ministry Official would stand during the ceremony.
"Not bad, very cosy," Pallie said, clapping Oliver on the shoulder.
"Hermione dinnae want a big wedding, neither do a fer tha' matter," he shrugged before he was pulled away to talk to some of the guests.
"Leo," Oliver greeted with a smile, the young boy approaching him as he helped to greet the guests.
"Mr. Wood," he replied nervously.
Oliver chuckled. "Ye can call mae Oliver; Mr. Wood's me father an' a don' wanna get confused. It doesn't take much," he said and Leo let out a sigh and laughed.
"He's right, it doesn't!" The twins replied and Oliver scowled at them, causing the rest of the Weasleys who were greeting guests to laugh loudly.
"Have ye seen Hermione already?" He asked Leo.
He nodded. "She looked very pretty," he said with a blush.
"A imagine she would," Oliver smiled.
"No you didn't, Wood," said Charlie as he approached, taking his hand and shaking it. "It's been a while."
"It has," Oliver agreed.
"Anyway, Little Leo's joking. You're going to get the shock of your life when you see Hermione, I caught a glimpse of her on my way down here and I almost walked into that tree over there," he gestured with a jab of his thumb and his siblings laughed at him.
"He did!" The four Weasley boys chorused in agreement.
"I'm glad to see everything is going to plan."
Turning to look over their shoulders, they saw Kingsley Shacklebolt approaching with a toothy smile.
"Minister, what're ye doin' here?" Oliver questioned in surprise whilst Leo's eyes widened at seeing the Minister of Magic in person and up close.
"I am the Ministry Official performing the ceremony."
"Is tha' normal?"
"No, but Hermione is a friend and I thought this might be more comfortable for her rather than a stranger."
"So it's not 'coz ye wanna put us on a podium an' parade our marriage tae the public?" He challenged.
"No, I dare say you have already helped with the press conference you held," he chuckled before shaking Oliver's hand, giving those present a smile and then leaving to take his place at the podium.
It was around that time that the remainder of his teammates arrived with their partners, some of them having opted for muggle attire and the others formal robes. Oliver wasn't surprised to see their partners had chosen to wear dresses that were tight and revealing but he didn't comment as he realised they were more covered than they were when they were at the stadium. But there was one witch, in particular, that caught his attention. It wasn't due to the style of her dress, rather the colour. Melanie, Malloy's girlfriend, was wearing white.
Oliver's brow pulled into an unpleased frown. He didn't know much about weddings but even he knew only the bride wore white, for someone else to do so was disrespectful. But before he could comment on the fact, his mother walked past and flicked her wand in Melanie's direction, her dress changing from white to a dark blue. As Melanie gasped in outrage, his mother sent him a wink over her shoulder and Oliver's felt his mouth twitching.
"Don' even bother opening yer mouth," Oliver warned, his tone too calm to not be drawn by it. "What me ma did was justified. Ye purposely wore white tae spite Hermione but let's get somethin' perfectly clear; this is Hermione's day, not yers. Ye were invited oot af courtesy tae me teammates an' friends, somethin' Hermione had insisted upon despite me wishes. If any af ye attempt tae ruin this day fer her ye'll be removed an' prohibited from entering Puddlemere United grounds. Tha' goes fer petty looks, behaviour an' comments. tae. Do a make meself clear?" He asked, his eyes darting between the women and whilst it was clear they were irritated with his rules, they kept their mouths shut and nodded.
"Nicely said!" Bill called from his place where he was greeting some of Hermione's friends from Hogwarts.
"Oliver, you're needed at the altar now, Mate...Sun's beginning to set and you're getting married," Pallie said.
Oliver took a breath and nodded. "The Weasleys will show ye tae yer seats, now, if ye'll excuse mae, a have tae get married."
"Go and get 'em, tiger!" Thompson called.
Oliver halted in his retreat and twisted to look behind him, Thompson winking at him and making a clawing motion with his hand whilst he growled. They burst into laughter and Oliver shook his head, laughing to himself as he continued towards the altar.
He came to a stop with Pallie on his left and they casually chatted whilst he shifted nervously. His mother came over to him, pinned the wedding flowers to his suit and repeated the process with Pallie. Before she left, she kissed Oliver on the forehead earning 'awes' and sniggers from the team and a glare from Oliver. Not long later, Oliver caught sight of the twins leaving along with Leo and he knew that it was almost time.
And he was right, because barely fifteen minutes later, the sun had set and the fairy lights and Hermione's lights were twinkling and glowing softly under the clear, starry night sky and the guests stood from their seats as the wedding march played.
Oliver's eyes locked on Leo as he proudly walked down the aisle with a white silk cushion in hand, sitting two matching wedding bands, and when he reached the end of the aisle, he stood next to Pallie who high-fived Leo and ruffled his hair. Next down the aisle was Fleur and she was wearing her bridesmaids dress and carrying a bouquet of blue and white peonies and hydrangeas with a white silk ribbon wrapped around it.
Unexpectedly, Quaffle waltzed down the aisle with his tail wagging happily and looking like he owned the place, being dressed in a black suit. The guests laughed and gushed at how adorable he looked and the photographer couldn't resist snapping a photo. Oliver chuckled and shook his head; he should've seen that one coming.
Finally, it was Hermione, being escorted by Fred and George who were supporting identical beaming smiles.
When Oliver saw her, his breathing halted as the air was knocked from his lungs, his eyes widened, his mouth dropped open and all of his nerves washed away. She looked absolutely breathtaking in her gown and with a halo of blue and white flowers placed atop her head. She looked like an angel. His angel. His sparrow. His Hermione. His wife. She was his and no one else's and his chest pooled with love and affection as he watched her slowly approach him, supporting the biggest smile he'd ever seen grace her beautiful features.
"You're drooling," Pallie leaned in closer.
Oliver took no notice of his words and his attention never strayed from Hermione. Pallie laughed and then leaned over, and in a comical manner, he closed Oliver's mouth until his teeth clattered and the guests laughed softly.
"Told you she looked pretty," Leo muttered and Pallie laughed at him and clapped him on the shoulder.
"Yeah, she really does," he agreed. "You lucky bastard," he muttered to Oliver.
When Hermione finally reached the altar, the twins pressed kisses to her cheeks and she smiled at them with tears in her eyes before she handed her bouquet to Fleur and she was handed off to Oliver.
"You look breathtaking," he muttered.
"Thank you, you look very handsome," she replied, her eyes boring into his and her cheeks flushing pink.
~000~000~000~
Hermione stepped into her old bedroom with Fleur and they took seats and casually talked but when she heard a scratching at the door, she stood and crossed over to it, smiling when Quaffle darted into the room, barking happily to see her. She shut the door and crouched down but he must've known to be careful as he sat with his tail wagging and he didn't attempt to jump up at her as he usually would, once more proving how incredibly smart her puppy was.
"I missed you," she smiled and Quaffle barked in response, thankfully licking her hand and not her face, otherwise Fleur would've been furious. "I have something for you," she said before standing and crossing to her beaded bag, removing the little doggy tux she'd bought him. Fleur laughed softly at Hermione and shook her head. "What? He's my baby and a part of this wedding," she said in defence.
After Quaffle was brushed and Fleur placed a sweet-smelling charm on him, he sat patiently and allowed Hermione to dress him and when she stepped back, he looked adorable. He had on a white shirt and black suit jacket that had his two front paws in and it reached to the middle of his back and he had a black bow tie around his neck. They gushed over him and Quaffle lapped up the attention happily.
Mrs. Weasley stepped into the room and drew their attention and after briefly cooing over Quaffle, she turned to Hermione saying,
"I have a few things for you. I know muggles have wedding traditions, and I thought that we could incorporate them. So, for something new and something blue, Oliver bought this for you."
She handed Hermione the black velvet box and she gasped softly when she opened it to reveal a lilac-blue tanzanite tennis bracelet.
"It's beautiful," she said softly, Fleur taking it from her and fastening it around her left wrist as she wore her Wood cuff bracelet on her right.
"Finally, is something old and something borrowed," Mrs Weasley said and she handed her the velvet last box. Hermione opened it and her eyes watered as the sight of the simple silver necklace that sat a small teardrop diamond. "I wore this on my wedding day, as did my mother and grandmother and so on. It is a tradition in my family, I have always considered you my daughter and I would like for you to wear this on your wedding day, as my daughter."
Hermione waved her hands over her face in an attempt to stop the tears from falling because Fleur would kill her if she ruined her makeup and they laughed at her.
"I would be honoured," Hermione whispered, sniffling when Mrs. Weasley slipped the necklace around her neck and fastened it in place, it falling just above her mother's ring.
The sun had now set and there was a knock on the door before the twins entered. "It's time," they chorused.
Hermione took a deep breath and nodded before reaching for her bouquet and she left for the ceremonial site. They were hidden behind a group of trees and when the music started, Leo went first being followed by Fleur and Quaffle and then it was Hermione's turn.
"Are you ready?" Fred asked.
"Yes, let's get me married," she nodded.
"We're glad this worked out for you, Hermione, you deserve it," he smiled.
"Thank you. They should be here," she said sadly.
"Yes, they should be" George agreed angrily.
"But you have us," Fred remarked.
"Yes, I do, and I wouldn't trade you two for the world," she promised. They smiled at her. "I love you both."
"We love you, too," they chorused.
She took their proffered arms and they walked out from behind the trees and slowly ascended the aisle, briefly hearing gasps and mutters but she took no notice as she examined the beautiful scene that was her wedding.
The team and their partners along with Coach Burton and his wife were on the left and the Weasleys and Woods were on the right along with Dean Thomas, Luna Lovegood, Neville Longbottom and Seamus Finnegan, as well as Headmistress McGonagall and some of her professors and there were other guests scattered around in the seats. She smiled at the guests as they looked at her in awe and then she turned to the team and they were all looking at her with soft smiles and wide eyes and their partners scowled. By the time she reached Oliver, Mrs. Weasley and Mrs. Wood were crying and their husbands held their hands, trying to offer comfort. Percy, Bill and Charlie were beaming at Hermione and Oliver hadn't taken his eyes off her. She had to stifle a giggle when she saw Pallie reach over and close his mouth.
When she took Oliver's hand and he whispered how breathtaking she looked, her whole body tingled and loved and warmth swarmed her. She whispered her reply and then she turned towards the podium, being pleasantly surprised that Kingsley was their Ministry Official.
"We are gathered here today to witness the holy matrimony of these two young people before us. Marriage is not easy. At times it can be difficult, gruelling, exhausting and painful. The relationship will see arguments and bad tempers but it will also see kindness, friendship, love and devotion. You have all witnessed the love that Hermione and Oliver share for one another and now they have asked you here to share in the union and sealing of their love," Kingsley spoke loudly for all to hear, his smile never wavering. "Before I continue, I must ask if anyone has a reason as to why these two may not marry."
"How about it's against the law?" Hermione cheeked, rolling her eyes and the audience filled with laughter and sniggers.
"Well said," Kingsley tipped his head in acknowledgment, his eyes twinkling.
As he opened his mouth to continue, a hex whizzed towards Hermione and catching it from the corner of her eye and acting on instinct, she pulled her hand from Oliver's, drew her from the concealed pocket she'd had Fleur charm in her dress, and she easily blocked it, the hex rebounding in the opposite direction until it collided with the ground.
"SHE CAN'T MARRY HIM BECAUSE HE'S MINE" Mary, Oliver's number one fan, shrieked in fury.
"I'm pretty sure your girlfriend wasn't on the guest list," Hermione said lightly and Oliver scowled at her whilst her family and the team sniggered.
Sighing, she flicked her wand, sending the Bat Bogey Hex to Mary and she ran in the opposite direction crying and screaming whilst a couple of Aurors that were posted around the ceremony for security followed after her and the guests cheered and applauded Hermione. She bowed and Oliver laughed at her before she stowed her wand and retook his hands.
"Feel free to continue," she said.
Kingsley chuckled, before saying, "First, we will repeat the traditional vows and after I believe that Hermione and Oliver have written their own?" They nodded in confirmation. "Excellent. Do you both pledge to share your lives openly with one another, and to speak the truth in love? Do you promise to honour and tenderly care for one another, cherish and encourage each other, stand together, through sorrows and joys, hardships and triumphs for all the days of your lives?"
"I do," they chorused.
"Do you pledge to share your love and the joys of your marriage with all those around you, so that they may learn from your love and be encouraged to grow in their own lives?"
"I do," they repeated.
"You may say your vows, Oliver?"
Oliver cleared his throat, took a calming breath and his eyes bore into Hermione's as he said, "Sparrow, I promise to do right by you, to protect you and to take care of you. I promise to love you with everything I have in me and I promise to always be by and on your side. I promise to make you laugh when you need it, to comfort you when you are sad and to allow you to hex me when I upset you." The crowd laughed and Hermione gave a watery smile. "I promise to listen to your long-winded rants, to put up with your pranks and to never abandon you. I promise to stay away from the kitchen..." Again, the crowd laughed as did Hermione. "And I promise to never keep secrets from you. I will put you before all else and I will cherish you even in death," he vowed.
Hermione sniffled as did some members of the crowd.
"Hermione?" Prompted Kingsley.
"Oliver," she sniffled, "You know how to push my buttons and make angry, sad and happy all in the space of a heartbeat. You're a rubbish cook, terrible at decorating and dreadful at singing," she listed and the crowd chuckled as did Oliver. "But that's why I love you. You don't hide from me, you allow me to see your imperfections and vulnerabilities and I feel comfortable with you seeing mine. I know that you won't judge me for my decisions and actions and I know you'll support me. I promise to support you in your endeavours, in your career and in your life. I will make you laugh, I will comfort you, and when the situation calls for it, give you a major hexing." The crowd laughed and Oliver chucked. "I promise to run to my older brothers when you make me sad and I promise to do nothing when they retaliate." Once more, the crowd laughed and Hermione heard noises of agreement from the twins, Charlie and Bill. "I promise to love you until my last breath and to carry the love I have for you into the afterlife, where I will wait for you to return to me," she vowed.
Hermione heard more sniffles and Oliver looked to her with love and devotion. Kingsley reached for a white silk ribbon and stepped closer to Hermione and Oliver, lifting their clasped left hands and tying the ribbon around them. Drawing his wand, he mumbled a spell before the ribbon glowed and then it was removed. He then gestured with a kind smile for Leo to approach, and he did nervously.
"These rings, symbolise the love, friendship and honesty between Oliver and Hermione." He turned to Hermione and she reached out to pluck Oliver's ring from the cushion. "Hermione, do you take Oliver Charles Wood, to be your lawfully wedded husband?"
"I do," Hermione answered without hesitation and if it was possible, Oliver's smile would've widened as she slipped the ring into place. On the inside of the band, she had 'Oliver, I will love you for always' engraved.
Oliver took Hermione's ring and smiled at Leo as he stepped back into place beside Pallie.
"Oliver, do you take Hermione Jean Granger, to be your lawfully wedded wife?"
"I do," he replied just as hastily and Hermione beamed as he slipped the ring into place in front of her engagement ring. On the inside of the band, he had 'Sparrow, my love for you is infinite' engraved.
"Go now in peace and live in love, sharing the most precious gifts you have, the gifts of your lives united. And may your days be long on this earth. By the power invested in me as the Minister of Magic, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now kiss the bride."
The crowd stood and cheered loudly as Oliver tugged Hermione to him and wrapped his arms around her tightly and hers looped around his neck.
"I love you," they both mumbled before their lips touched in a soft, languid, passionate kiss.
They slowly drew back with smiles as Kingsley aimed his wand above, a bright golden light jetting from the tip of his wand and it burst into gold particles high in the sky with the crowd being showered with the remains.
Hermione and Oliver both gasped loudly and clutched at their left wrists and they stumbled back, being caught by Fred and Pallie. The cheers died down and they looked at Hermione and Oliver worriedly.
Hermione and Oliver looked at each other before they removed their hands and looked down at their left wrists.
Their eyes widened when they both saw they had matching ivy and rose tattoos winding around their wrists. The roses and ivy twined together beautifully in the golden glow, and on Hermione's wrist, Oliver's name was written in the middle surrounded by the roses and ivy, and on Oliver's wrist, Hermione's name was written in the same way.
They darted their eyes to each other in confusion, Hermione holding her wrist into the fairy lights above to see it shimmer and sparkled.
"Is this normal?" Hermione asked.
"No," was Kingsley's replied and he looked at Hermione and Oliver with a smile. "Do not trouble yourself with this Hermione, I assure you that this is not a bad thing and it will not cause you any harm. In fact, it is a good thing. But I would wait until after the reception to research it," he chuckled knowingly, and then he turned his attention to the crowd seeing the parents were all sharing knowing, if not surprised, smiles. "May I introduce you to Mr. and Mrs. Oliver and Hermione Wood," he smiled to the sound of the crowd cheering. Hermione, taking Kingsley's advice, turned to Oliver and smiled widely and he did the same before he pulled her back to him and kissed her again.
Port-keys were handed out and everyone left for Wood Manor with the twins taking Quaffle and Leo with them. Kingsley, Hermione and Oliver were the only ones left.
"Are you sure this is nothing to be concerned about?" Hermione asked, gesturing to her left wrist.
"I am positive. When you do your research you will see for yourself. What happened here tonight is an incredible thing," he smiled and Hermione sighed and looked at Oliver to see he appeared to be relieved as well.
"Why was Mary able tae get in?" Oliver asked annoyed.
"She was released on bail last week until her trial. I am not certain how she was able to get past security or how she learned the location of the ceremony, but I will have an investigation launched," Kingsley assured them before he handed them their ministry appointed wedding bands and they slipped them onto their right ring fingers.
"They will change from silver to gold when the marriage has been consummated," he informed them and Hermione's ducked her head, her cheeks flushing pink. "A Ministry Official will visit you within the next seventy-two hours to go over the rules and regulations of the law and to ask questions. But don't expect them until after Friday."
~000~000~000~
Wood Manor
Hermione and Oliver port-keyed to Wood Manor and Oliver caught her around the waist and steadied her as she lost her balance and wobbled in her heels. When she lifted her gaze to see him smiling down at her, she couldn't resist pressing her lips against his and he responded by pulling her flush against him but Hermione pulled away all too soon for his liking and he made a sound of disapproval.
"We have a reception to get to," she reminded and he sighed before releasing his hold on her and taking her hand, leading her along the pathway until they came into the view of the guests and they cheered and clapped loudly as they made their way through the crowd-throwing-confetti and to the very first table where their family and Leo sat and Quaffle was sat next to Charlie by his chair.
There were close to twenty round tables that had white table cloths and blue and white centrepieces with white chairs surrounding the table. The night sky was perfect with the same twinkling fairy lights bathing the grounds in a soft glow. There had been a dance floor charmed onto the grass and the tables and chairs sat on the even ground with a large space left for dancing in the centre.
Mrs. Weasley had outdone herself; she'd cooked a buffet of Hermione and Oliver's favourite foods with there being lamb, beef, pork, mash potatoes, vegetables, soups, salads, sandwiches, quiches and pies, and for dessert, there were cookies, cupcakes, biscuits, ice cream and chocolates.
Hermione reluctantly agreed to allow the house-elves to serve everyone given that they looked so happy and adorable in their waiter's outfits and Oliver kissed her forehead when she did so.
They all ate and chatted, with Quaffle being fed under the table as usual, until it was time for their first dance. They'd decided on a combination of muggle and wizarding music for the reception, but they'd chosen a muggle song for their first dance, From This Moment On, by Shania Twain.
They made their way to the dance floor and everyone watched them silently as the music began and they moved slowly around the dance floor, Oliver easily guiding Hermione in their movements as they were lost in their own little world as they stared into each other's eyes.
"You know, this is the first time we've danced together," Hermione told Oliver.
"A guess it is," he said thoughtfully. "Well, unless ye count tha' day we were decorating," he added and Hermione laughed lightly.
"You're really good," Hermione noted, laughing when he spun her out and brought her back to him, catching her and falling back into step with ease.
"Why, thank ye, Mrs. Wood," he smiled down at her and Hermione's smile came easy. "A was forced tae learn as a child. Most Purebloods are," he shrugged.
"So, Mr. Wood, what did you think of Quaffle's suit?"
He laughed. "Only ye would put him in a suit"
"He looks adorable," she defended
"Aye, he does," he agreed, "But ye, Mrs. Wood, look incredibly stunning. Ye knocked the breath oot af mae when a saw ye. Leo said ye looked very pretty, but he was severely lacking fer a better term."
Hermione beamed at him. "I really do love you," she vowed.
"An' a love ye," he muttered, lowering his head to kiss her and hearing camera flashes.
"What do you think it means? The marks on our wrists?"
"Am not sure, but the Minister said it was a good thing, so don' go gettin' yer research on until after our wedding, okay?"
"Okay," she sighed and he chuckled.
The song ended and everyone cheered and applauded before people started filling up the dance floor and Hermione was asked to dance with Mr. Weasley. She did and she danced with Fred, George, Bill, Charlie, Mr Wood, Percy and Leo, as well as with each member of the team and Quaffle ran around the dance floor making people laugh. By the end of the dances, her feet were killing and she was exhausted and so they took seats at the table ready for the speeches. By this point, Oliver had removed his suit jacket, loosened his tie, unbuttoned his collar and rolled up his sleeves to his elbows and many of the guests had done the same.
Champagne was served and Mr. and Mrs. Wood, and Mr. and Mrs. Weasley stood together and it fell silent.
"We would like to propose a toast to Oliver and Hermione," Mr. Weasley spoke, his eyes shining brightly. "May your love be strong and may your life be fulfilled with happiness. We couldn't be happier that our daughter, Hermione, was matched with a good man who can keep up with her and make her happy. Welcome to the family, Oliver."
Mrs. Weasley sniffled as the crowd toasted and then Mr. Wood said,
"We cannae tell ye all hoo incredibly honoured we are tae welcome someone as wonderful, strong an' caring as Hermione in tae our family. We are incredibly happy tha' Oliver was matched with such a loving young woman, who would care fer him even on his moodier days an' there's a lot af them," he swore and the crowd laughed. "Tae Hermione an' Oliver!"
When they crowd toasted and the elders retook their seats, Pallie promptly stood from his seat with a devilish grin and Oliver's head dropped back as he groaned at the thought of what was about to happen.
"Well then, who would've thought it? This ugly sod getting married to someone as beautiful as Hermione, Britain's most eligible bachelor my arse," he teased and the crowd laughed, Oliver scowled and Hermione laughed softly, patting Oliver's knees in sympathy. "I don't know how you pulled it off, Mate, but you did. Instead of the press asking, if Hermione's got you under the Imperius curse, we should be asking her if you have her under it!" The crowd laughed again. "I'm glad that Hermione, here, will keep our dear Captain in line both at work and at home," he winked dramatically and Hermione ducked her head, blushing, as Oliver slipped his arm around her shoulders. "We need her to protect us from him and his wrath. So, all that is left to say, and I know I speak for the entire team when say this, is officially welcome to the Puddlemere family. Good luck in your life together and don't bring your problems to work. Wood, don't make her angry, we all have to suffer for you being an idiot," he finished, everyone laughing as they toasted. Oliver slapped Pallie on the back of the head before they shared a quick hug and returned to their seats.
The twins were up next, something Hermione was dreading and the moment they stood from their chairs with grins, she groaned and buried her face in her hands.
"So, our little sister got married. It seems like only yesterday we were playing muggle board games and getting our arses royally handed to us," said Fred.
"That's because it was," George added.
"And it seems like only yesterday she hexed me for cheating."
"That's because it was," George repeated and the crowd laughed at them. "Anyway, I don't know what you're complaining about, she hexed me for eating one of her biscuits and I knocked myself unconscious by running into a wall," he said. The crowd howled with laughter. "I still have the bruise," he gestured to his forehead.
"There's nothing there," Hermione rolled her eyes.
"There is so, right there," he argued, gesturing again.
"That's your finger," she deadpanned. Oliver laughed along with the crowd.
"Now that my brother's stopped his whining," Fred said, clapping George on the shoulder, "We were going to do our big brother duty and threaten Oliver with specially made pranks just for him if he ever hurts our Mia, but we've come to realise that we should be worrying about him instead of threatening him."
"We lived with Hermione for two months and I don't know how we survived it," George picked up, shaking his head and Hermione scowled at them. "I think he needs more protection than she does. Hell, you think we're bad, you have no idea what a little prankster Hermione is, we're the ones that reign her in, and that's a scary thought," he shivered and the crowd laughed as her scowl deepened. "Only joking, Mia," he winked at her. "In all honesty, we were sad to see Hermione leave."
"Devastated really," Fred added nodding. "Not only is Hermione incredibly selfless and caring, she puts others needs before herself. When it comes down to it, Hermione's one of a kind, and we hope that Oliver knows how lucky he is to have her heart," he said, his eyes narrowed slightly and Oliver nodded.
"Hermione, we love you and we're glad to know that we're giving our little sister to someone who will love and cherish you, and devote his life to you because we can't think of anyone who deserves it more. You deserve to be treated like a princess, to not want for anything. And we know that you don't care for material possessions, which is why we know that Oliver will shower you with them, along with his time, love and devotion."
"Welcome to the family, Oliver," the twins chorused.
"I hope you're prepared because Hermione had everyone go easy on you, but now you're an honorary Weasley," started George.
"And that means you're fair game," finished Fred.
"Too right it does" Bill and Charlie chorused loudly and the crowd laughed. Hermione smiled at them with watery eyes and she hugged them tightly and kissed their cheeks.
After the speeches, there was more dancing and chatting. Hermione learned that all her friends from Hogwarts were returning for their final year and they were exempt from the law and she was happy for them. She learned that Lee was engaged to Alicia Spinnet, who he brought as his plus one and things seemed to be going well and they were marrying in September. Verity was already engaged before the law came out but her fiancé was away on business and couldn't make it to the wedding. She finally got to meet Percy's match, Audrey, and Hermione knew she was perfect for him; she valued education and hard work just as much as he did and she was pretty, too, with her long brown hair and large green eyes.
Another hour later, and the twins pulled Hermione and Oliver into the middle of the dance floor and they gestured for them to not move and they quickly disappeared and a few minutes later they returned. Suddenly, Hermione startled when she heard the telltale sign of a firework and she looked up at the sky to see fireworks explode in a myriad of bright and beautiful colours, too many to count. Firework after firework went off, exploding into different colours and shapes and the crowd gasped and murmured as camera flashes were going off left, right and centre. After ten minutes, the last three fireworks began. The first one changed into a large beautiful blue sparrow, the second one turned into a pink and red love heart and the final one said 'Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Wood'. Hermione's eyes watered and the crowd burst into applause as Hermione hugged the twins tightly and kissed their cheeks.
After that, they moved onto the three-tiered chocolate and cream wedding cake that was decorated in white fondant and blue flowers. Hermione and Oliver cut the first piece of cake together and when they did, they heard a loud bag and beautiful white doves appeared out of nowhere and flew off into the night sky. Hermione looked at the twins knowingly and they grinned in response.
They'd been on their best behaviour all night with only a few minor pranks. They put a Shrinking Charm on Percy's trousers and he had to excuse himself as he was losing the feeling in his legs; he had to be cut out of them. They had placed some of their signature Canary Creams and Flirting Fancies on the desserts table and a few unsuspecting guests fell victim, growing beaks and feathered wings and flirting with anyone that walked past. Hermione had to admit the last one had been quite funny to watch, especially when Percy tried to flirt with McGonagall and Flitwick tried to flirt with the pork on the catering table. They'd even gone so far as to turn Melanie's hair into eels for what she did to Hermione, something Hermione wouldn't admit to sniggering at as she and Oliver hid behind a table out of the screaming witch's path.
Soon the guests started to leave and they decided to call it a night, too. All the women were gathered and Hermione threw the bouquet over her shoulder for Audrey to catch. After, Hermione and Oliver made their way around the remaining guests and said their goodbyes before doing the same to their family with the twins promising to get Leo home safely.
"Are you sure?" Hermione asked, her now mother-in-law after she'd offered to take Quaffle for the weekend. "He can be quite a handful and he hogs the bed," she said and they laughed at her. "I'm being serious, I've lost count of the number of times I've woken up on the floor and he's sprawled out on my bed."
"We're sure, Dear," Mrs. Wood laughed lightly, her eyes twinkling. "Ye twa head aff an' we'll take care af ev'rything else."
They said their goodbyes and made their way back to the manor so they could floo to the apartment and Oliver took her hand and stepped into the floo as panic and nerves began to set in.