31st July (cont'd…)

"What was the Minister of Magic doing here?" George asked.

I looked up at him and took a calming breath, "He wanted to hand over what Dumbledore left us in his will."

George looked impressed, "He left you something?"

I nodded, "A book on magical abilities. Poor Scrimgeour hadn't a clue why."

He smiled and kissed my cheek, "That's my girl!"

The four of us passed around the objects received at the dinner table. I was itching to see if there was a chapter on Invisibilia to learn a bit about myself. Opening the first page, I cast my eye down the contents list:

Metamorphmagi

Lycanthropy

House Elf magic

Maledictus

Occlumens

Seers

Invisibilia

Bingo. Although I'd have loved nothing more than to curl up and read, I was still at Harry's party and couldn't be rude. I passed the book along and let others take a look. Naturally, the Delacours were interested in the chapter on Veela and had a flick through as Molly said, "Harry, dear, everyone's awfully hungry, we didn't like to start without you … shall I serve dinner now?"

We all ate with gusto, and hurriedly devoured a slice of cake each after another verse of 'Happy Birthday'. By this stage of the night, it was getting quite dark and with the wedding the following afternoon, we all mucked in to get the garden returned to its original state.

"Meet us upstairs," Harry whispered to me, "after everyone's gone to bed."

Molly and Arthur both yielded to George's continuous pleading and permitted me to sleep in Fred and George's room. Pyjamas on and with no intention of sleeping, George had taken his medication to help heal his ear and prevent infection, so I knew it was only a matter of time. It was odd listening to two sets of deep breathing as I eased myself out of George's embrace and slipped my feet into my slippers.

Fred woke as I sneaked out. I could have kicked myself for being an idiot and not making myself invisible, "Where are you going?"

"Just getting a drink, I'll be back soon."

"Are you nervous about tomorrow?" he asked.

I nodded, "Quite a few thoughts floating around up there, yeah. I just need a cuppa to unwind, I'll be grand."

I tip-toed up to Ron's bedroom – everyone else was already there. Ron was examining the Deluminator with great interest, turning the lights on and off again. Harry had packed his most treasured items into a moleskin purse, a gift from Hagrid - slighter smaller than the one Scrimgeour had - with the Marauder's Map, R.A.B's locket and a shard of mirror that once belonged to Sirius. The Snitch continued to flutter feebly in his hand. Hermione was in full discussion mode as to why Dumbledore couldn't have given us the faintest of clues as to why he left us the objects he did.

"At least yours is obvious," Hermione said, "I mean, it'll help us learn your capabilities if we're ever backed into a corner and we can read about other abilities if we come across anyone – then we can be prepared." She paused, "We don't know why Dumbledore would want Ron to turn lights on and off when we've got the Peruvian Instant Darkness Powder at our disposal. Then there's the Snitch…"

Harry smiled, "You didn't think I was going to try too hard in front of Scrimgeour, did you?"

"What d'you mean?" I asked.

"The Snitch I caught in my first ever Quidditch Match," Harry teased, "Don't you remember?"

Hermione looked bemused, I gasped and Ron could hardly get his words out for excitement. Pointing between the Snitch and Harry he uttered, "That was the one you nearly swallowed!"

"Exactly," Harry said, pressing his lips to the Snitch.

It did not open.

Frustration and bitter disappointment showed on Harry's face, but as he was about to give up, Hermione cried out, "Writing! There's writing on it, quick! Look!"

Harry nearly dropped the Snitch in surprise as the three of us clambered onto Harry's camp bed to get a greater look. Engraved on the smooth golden surface were five words:

I open at the close.

The words disappeared again in an instant.

"I open at the close… What's that supposed to mean?" Harry asked.

I came up with nothing. We repeated the words, so many times that they lost all meaning. The phrase was as cryptic as you could get and we were stumped.

"And the sword," Ron said finally after we'd spent several minutes in silence, which was only broken by me yawning, I was running on very little sleep and little was promised to me tonight again, "Why did he want Harry to have the sword?"

"And why couldn't he have told me?" Harry said quietly, "It was there, it was right there on the wall of his office during all our talks last year! If he wanted me to have it, why didn't he just give it to me then?"

"And as for this book," Hermione held up Tales of Beedle the Bard, "I've never even heard of them!"

Ron looked at Hermione incredulously, "You've never heard of Tales of Beedle the Bard? You're kidding, right?"

"I haven't either," I said.

Harry added, "Nor have I."

"Do you know them, then?" Hermione asked Ron.

"Well, of course I do!" Ron was completely bemused by this whole situation. He had read a book that Hermione Granger had not, and he needed to wallow in that knowledge for a little bit longer, "Oh, come on! All the old kids' stories are supposed to be Beedle's, aren't they? The Fountain of Fair Fortune … Babbitty Rabbitty and her Cackling Stump …"

Hermione giggled, "Excuse me? What was that last one?"

"Ron, we were all raised by muggles." I enlightened him.

"We didn't hear stories like that when we were little, we heard Snow White and the Seven Dwarves and Cinderella -"

Ron screwed up his face, "What's that? An illness?"

"So, these are children's stories?" Hermione held up the book towards the light to translate the Runes.

"Yeah," Ron said with uncertainty, "I mean, that's just what you hear, you know, that all these old stories came from Beedle. I dunno what they're like in the original versions."

"But I wonder why Dumbledore thought I should read them?"

There was a crack downstairs.

"It could be Freddie looking for me," I said, "I told him I couldn't sleep and didn't want to disturb him."

Ron shrugged his shoulders, "Or it could be Charlie sneaking off to regrow his hair, now mum's gone to sleep."

I stood, "I'd best get back anyway. I've to get up early to make this croquembouche."

"A cock-in-what?"

I rolled my eyes.

Ron continued, "Never mind – a brutal quadruple murder by the bridegroom's mother might put a bit of a damper on the wedding. I'll get the lights."

Ron clicked the Deluminator as Hermione and I left the room.

1st August

Everything was running surprisingly smoothly this morning. I got up around the same time as Molly and Apolline who both kept themselves busy with a list of tasks. As I got out of the shower, Apolline put rollers in my hair with strict instructions to let the hair potion do its work. She also sprayed me with a potion that is supposed to 'airbrush' you, at least it smelt nice. I ate a quick breakfast at Molly's insistence before popping over to the apartment with a sleepy Fred and George to start making the croquembouche.

I desperately needed a strong cup of coffee and a quiet break before the madness. One glance at George and he said magical words.

"I got you."

I had a strong cup of coffee placed in my hands and the twins on either side mocked my new hairstyle.

"It's called fashion, honey, look it up." I joked, taking a sip of coffee.

"I feel like this is the only time we might have today to sit down and relax before mum goes maniacal." Fred put his feet up on the coffee table in front of us, "When I get married, I'm going to put mum in a full Body-Bind Curse until it's all done."

George and I laughed, "Now there's an idea – we could always have a strait jacket for backup." I suggested.

"And everyone can wear what they want," Fred added, "no disagreements about dresses -" I raised my eyebrow at Fred, who responded, "yes, we heard about that. It was hilarious seeing mum politely telling Madame Delacour that she was not going to have her daughters wearing such inappropriate dresses."

I inhaled deeply, "You'd have loved the original dress, George. In the bedroom. Alone. With no one else looking at me. And you'd have been embarrassed to see your little sister like that."

"And there's no need for that." Fred said, "It's a wedding, not fashion week. Though undoubtedly, you'd look lovely, Kathryn."

"What're you fishing for, Freddie?" I asked him.

He grinned at me, "I want first dibs on all of your offcuts."

"They're all yours," I said before asking, "Do you know what's weird?"

"What?" George asked.

"I'm going to meet the rest of your family today."

George nearly choked on his coffee, "She's going to meet Aunt Muriel."

Fred spat out coffee into his cup, "Oh Merlin. She's old -"

"- she's ancient -"

"- relentless -"

"- outspoken -"

"- heartless -"

I laughed, "You guys are painting the loveliest picture of the woman. Don't worry. Old people love me."

Fred and George looked at each other worriedly, "Good luck." They said in sync.

I knocked back the last of my coffee and made my way over to the kitchen. I had practiced this dessert repeatedly and the wand movements were now second nature. Fred and George both showered and were smelling like roses as I got to work, music loud and proud. Over the next hour and a half, the two of them watched me as I manually assembled the huge cone-shaped structure using magic only as a mould in accordance with the instructions from Monsieur and Madame Delacour. My hands were sticky with caramel and I was constantly having to make more to get the shape to stay. As I got to the top of the cone, I was able to make spun sugar and chocolate decorations appear like flowers spiralling around.

"Woah," Fred said as I finished.

"Yeah." I breathed a sigh of relief, looking up at the metre-high centrepiece, "Now work your magic, keep it cool, keep it stable and for the love of God, make sure it makes it to the wedding in one piece."

George smiled, "Do you trust me?"

I looked at him inquisitively as I washed my hands, "You know I do."

"I'm going to put a charm on it so that when Bill and Fleur cut into it, there will be two Phoenixes flying out of it."

I smiled, "That sounds like a wonderful idea." I took my apron off and prepared myself for departure, "I'm probably not going to get chatting to both of you properly until after the ceremony. So, behave yourselves." I looked specifically at George, "And don't you be getting distracted by any Veela cousins."

"You know I only have eyes for you." He kissed me gently.

Fred pretended to vomit, so I kissed him on the cheek before saying, "And don't you be taking any strange cocktails. No matter how hot she might be. We can't embarrass ourselves."

The two of them laughed and I left, entrusting the croquembouche to them.

I arrived back at the Burrow to relative quiet. Molly was busying herself around the kitchen with sandwiches and little bites of food. Most of the men appeared to be out the back decorating the garden, putting out the chairs for the guests and doing whatever it is that blokes do before they get ready for a wedding. Molly pointed me upstairs and I didn't even question her.

"Ah, Kasrine!" Fleur opened her arms as I entered Percy's busy bedroom just before midday. People shifted to either side to allow me a safe passageway to embrace her, "Did you get eet fineeshed?"

"Yeah," I smiled, gently stroking her soft curls into place, "Fred and George are going to transport it later, I hope it's everything you want."

Fleur nodded confidently and Apolline sat me down on a seat beside her eldest daughter and had my nails manicured as we chatted. I glanced around the room for anyone I knew, but the stylists were all jabbering in French, "'Ave you seen Bill?" Fleur asked.

I shook my head as Molly walked into the room with platters of food for us to nibble on, from fruit and sandwiches to cheese and crackers, "Bill and Charlie are sorting out some last-minute arrangements with Ginny, Gabrielle and Hermione."

"Do you know what's missing?" I asked, "A wee glass of champagne."

"Oui!" Apolline waved her wand and summoned a bottle and 4 glasses.

Popping the cork, the liquid fizzed as it entered the flute. Fleur, Molly, Apolline and I all took a glass, and repeated the toast, "To love and marriage."

After a quick bite to eat and brushing my teeth, time seemed to fly. Fleur and I started to get our makeup done as Ginny and Gabrielle had their hair styled. Excitement radiated throughout my body in anticipation of the next number of hours, especially when Fleur's father had the dresses returned looking a lot more... modest.

"Kasrine?" Fleur called, looking for me in the mirror's reflection.

"Yeah?"

I approached the bride-to-be and she drew me in close, and whispered, "Would you be able to find Bill and give zis to 'im?" she handed me an envelope.

I raised my eyebrows cheekily, "Are you giving him a taster of what is going to happen tonight?"

"Maybe?" the glint in her eyes told me everything I needed to know.

"Am I to wait for a response?"

"You can tell me 'ow he reacts."

I giggled, "I'm on it."

Heading downstairs into the garden in a silk dressing gown and fluffy slippers, with my hair being set in magical rollers and my makeup recently applied to my face, I went in search of Bill Weasley. Along the way, I spotted Fred and George standing at the entrance to the marquee, poised to show guests their seats. George took a double-take whenever he saw me.

"What's wrong?" George asked.

"Nothing," I smiled, "I'm just looking for Bill – is he inside?"

George blinked, "Are you just going to ignore the fact that you are currently outside the wedding venue, less than an hour before the wedding is supposed to take place, in a very sexy little silk robe?"

I laughed, "You ain't seen nothin' yet." I kissed him on the cheek gently so as not to ruin my makeup, "Here -" I reached out and rubbed the lipstick mark off before having a good look at him, "- you're so very handsome."

"Loving the slippers, Kathryn," Ron said, exiting the marquee, looking me up and down in surprise, "Is that what you're wearing today?" He was followed by a red-haired boy, who looked remarkably like a Weasley.

"Thanks, I think they really set off the look." I joked with Ron and then spoke to the red-haired boy, "Hey Harry."

"How'd you know it was me?" he asked, drawing himself up a little defensively.

I reached out and straightened his wonky tie, "Unfortunately I've spent enough time with you to know your mannerisms." I caught a glimpse of the Groom, "Oooh – important information to relay – I'm outta ear." I winked at George before heading into the marquee to follow Bill and Charlie who appeared to be in deep conversation.

Arthur, who was arranging fresh flowers at the end of the rows caught sight of me and his eyes were filled with concern, "Is everything alright?"

I nodded enthusiastically, "Bridesmaid duties," I held up the letter, "communications from the bride."

"Bill!" Arthur called out and directed his eldest son towards me.

"Hey!" I smiled, "Fleur asked me to give you this."

I handed over the letter and watched as Bill unfolded the pages. His entire face lit up and he bit his lip before laughing, trying to loosen the collar of his dress robes, "I think it's gotten very hot in here."

I giggled, "Anything you'd like me to relay?"

"Just tell my beautiful bride yes, yes, a thousand times yes!"

I couldn't help but beam at him, "Will do. See you soon."

Upon my return to Fleur, she unashamedly told me of the very dirty things she wrote in the letter and was satisfied with Bill's response. I sat down beside her to get my hair done – Fleur wanted me to have looser curls for a change. It was strange seeing my hair so long and managed! The stylist then added a pearl and crystal hair piece in the shape of intersecting leaves to hold my hair back at the side.

"Oh Kat, the clip really suits you!" Ginny approached me, her hair had been curled in a similar way to mine, but by the look and sounds of it, they abandoned any hair accessories, "That's Aunt Muriel, by the way, approaching Hermione." Hermione was wearing the most beautiful knee-length lilac dress paired with heels and her beaded bag she went nowhere without.

"Oh dear, is this the Muggle-born?" Muriel spoke loudly, looking Hermione up and down with a hint of distaste, "Bad posture and skinny ankles."

I felt my eyes widen at the remark, "I dread to think what she'll have to say about me. Might need another glass of champagne, or two…"

"Don't worry," Ginny said, "she's rude to everyone. I wouldn't take it personally."

Muriel then crossed the room and informed Fleur of how best to wear her tiara, "No, no – the tiara is the star -"

I managed to escape the hot seat beside Fleur and both Ginny and I sat with Hermione on the bed watching with second-hand embarrassment. Fleur seemed rather impervious to the comments, focusing on the beautiful tiara on her head. Admittedly, it did look stunning with her silvery blonde locks.

As Muriel turned to leave, guided by Molly, she paused and looked at me, "You must be the Lestrange girl dating the lopsided-looking twin. You look awfully like your mother but she's too skinny." She walked on by.

"Did my Great Aunt Muriel just pay you a compliment?"

"Err -"

"There was one hidden in there somewhere," Hermione said.

The three of us quite happily sat and watched as Apolline flaunted her Mother-of-the-Bride outfit. She wore the most elegant gold coat dress with a matching fascinator that had miniature doves flying gracefully around it. Monsieur Delacour, who had now donned his dress robes gushed as he saw his wife, kissing her hands and practically worshipping the ground upon which she walked.

My view of the display of love was blocked as a makeup artist approached me and sighed, hands on hips, tapping her foot on the ground. She appeared to be in deep thought as she stared at my face, as though my lack of beauty was offending her. She grabbed a handful of products and proceeded to touch up my lipstick, add eyeshadow and a darker blusher. She finished by spraying my whole body with a potion that made my skin radiant.

Molly re-entered the room a few minutes later, poised and ready for action. She was now wearing brand new amethyst-coloured robes and a matching hat. It was the first time from my recollection seeing her with makeup on.

"Well, aren't you a stunner?" I sidled up beside her, giving a cheeky wink, "Look at you, Mama Weasley!"

Molly pursed her lips to stop herself from grinning, "It's time you ladies got into your outfits." She placed her hand on my back to direct me towards my dress hanging up on the wardrobe door, "I'll give you a hand if you need it once I've got Ginny zipped up."

I nodded and Molly shooed the unnecessary people out of the room – the makeup artists, hair stylists, Hermione, Fleur's father and a friend of Fleur's who had popped her head in. It was only when it was the six of us did I start to get dressed.

The room came alive with excitement as we each slipped into our dresses. Ginny and I stood side by side gazing into the long-length mirror; I placed my hand on the soft silk fabric which clung well to my body, showing off my curves in a form-fitting style. Gold was a colour Ginny and I barely wore, but alongside the plunging neckline and leg slit, we were both exploring completely new dress territory today. Thank goodness Monsieur Delacour managed to get them altered from an extreme plunge and high slit to something a little more appropriate for young ladies.

Eleven-year-old Gabrielle, who was dressed in something much more modest, came over and stood beside me. Her golden outfit resembled more of a flower girl dress – her neckline higher, no slit and a bow at the back.

"Trés belle." She remarked.

"Jolie?" I questioned my French but Gabrielle smiled, nonetheless.

The three of us gasped as Apolline magicked up the remaining buttons at the back of Fleur's dress, "Incroyable." I breathed. This was the first time I had seen Fleur's dress – it too was form-fitting and clung to every curve. Though traditional white, it emitted a silvery glow, which our dresses complemented beautifully. The dress was simple in design but elegant, along with the tiara and other familial pieces of jewellery which set off the whole look perfectly.

"If you start crying," Molly said, trying to combat the heightened emotion in the room as Fleur and her mother embraced, "I'll start crying, and I'm afraid I won't stop!"

A few giggles saw everyone standing in a line, composing themselves, ready to leave. Molly gave her best wishes and left the room to join Arthur. Ginny and I waited in the kitchen together, giving the Delacours a few minutes alone together. The two of us watched as Molly and Arthur instructed the ushers to take their seats and Molly gave Bill a tight hug before starting the procession into the marquee.

"I feel massively underdressed." Ginny said looking down at herself, "I should have a layer on top of this slip, right?"

I shrugged, "Sure, let's give Harry something to remember you by." I took a step back and admired her, "Girl, you look good." I started dancing on the spot, testing out my heels for later, getting Ginny to join me in a little jig to keep the nervous excitement at bay.

"Merlin I'm glad I've got you by my side today." Ginny and I shared a quick hug as the Delacour clan appeared. The six of us crossed the yard towards the marquee and we all got in line.

"Let's get you married!" I clapped my hands together as Apolline entered the marquee first. I listened as the officiant asked for the congregation to stand. I got the nod from Fleur to say she was ready, "Here we go!"

Not that I volunteered to go first, it was thrust upon me as the eldest of the bridesmaids. I stepped into the marquee and onto the purple run of carpet up to the front. Eyes fell upon me as I walked proudly towards Bill and Charlie standing under a bunch of golden balloons. The closer to the front I got, I caught eyes with George and gave him a cheeky grin before taking my spot on the left-hand side. Ginny and Gabrielle both stood beside me and we all looked over our shoulders to watch Fleur enter with her father.

Monsieur Delacour was bouncing on his feet, beaming, proud as punch to show off his beauty of a daughter. There was a collective sigh amongst the guests as she came into view. She was shining, in her element and when Bill caught sight of her, he looked like he'd never met Fenrir Greyback.

"Ladies and Gentlemen," spoke the tufty-haired wizard who had also presided over Dumbledore's funeral, "we are gathered here today to celebrate the union of two faithful souls…"

"Yes, my tiara sets off the whole thing nicely," Aunt Muriel's whisper carried, "But I must say Ginevra and the other bridesmaid's dress are far too low cut -"

Ginny and I shared a glance and had to bite our tongues to stop ourselves from laughing. She turned around and winked at Harry, I blew a kiss at George, who was noticeably staring at my bum. Instead of feeling self-conscious, I focused on the words spoken, "… love, built on a strong foundation is a strong and mighty fortress, a powerful wand of protection that brings safety and peace. Love is patient, it endures the toughest of battles and rejoices in the beauty of this world. May your hearts beat as one from this day forth…"

Fleur and Bill then held hands. I watched Bill as he beamed at his impending wife and he took his vows.

"Do you William Arthur, take Fleur Isabelle to be your wife? Will you love and comfort her? Honour her and protect her? Keep her in sickness and in health, being faithful to her as long as you both shall live?"

In the front row to my right, I caught a glimpse of Molly and Apolline sobbing quietly into scraps of lace as Bill said, "I do."

"And do you, Fleur Isabelle take William Arthur to be your husband? Will you love and comfort him? Honour and protect him? Keep him in sickness and in health, being faithful as long as you both shall live?"

Fleur cleared her throat before answering, "I do."

Charlie then handed the officiant their rings from a box in his pocket. These then had a spell cast over them, as though bonding them. So, when it came to the exchanging of rings Bill and Fleur both spoke in sync.

"I am yours and you are mine, together we form one body, one spirit, one mind as we embark on our life together. Let this ring serve as a reminder of all that we have promised and all that we shall share."

"I now declare you bonded for life." The wizard flicked his wand as Bill and Fleur exchanged rings, "You may now kiss each other."

The officiant lifted his wand high over the heads of Bill and Fleur and a shower of silver stars fell upon them, spiralling around their now entwined figures. Fred and George started a round of applause and the golden balloons overhead burst; birds of paradise and tiny golden bells flew and floated out of them, adding their songs and chimes to the din.

"Ladies and gentlemen!" the officiant called out, "If you would please stand up!"

Everyone followed suit, and Aunt Muriel grumbled audibly whilst doing so. The officiant waved his wand once again and the rows of chairs disappeared into thin air as the walls of the marquee vanished, so that we all stood under a canopy supported by golden poles. The view of the countryside was breathtaking from here; on one side we had the orchard in bloom and on the other, rolling hills of green. I took a cautious step backwards as a pool of molten gold spread from the centre of the tent to form a gleaming dance floor; the chairs reappeared around white-clothed tables.

The band appeared and started playing instrumental music. Waiters arrived bearing silver trays of pumpkin juice, butterbeer and Firewhiskey. Within seconds of the changes finalising, Bill and Fleur were surrounded by a crowd of well-wishers. I glanced around to see about ten people standing between George and me.

"Coralie," a random middle-aged woman dressed in emerald robes shook my hand, taking my attention away from George staring back at me, "'ow do you know Fleur?"

I smiled, shaking her hand back, "I introduced them."

"'hoo did you know first zen?"

"Bill."

She nodded, "'ow nice. Lovely to meet you."

"Same to you." I smiled awkwardly and she proceeded to bunk up to the next spot in the queue to see the newlyweds.

Ginny glanced at me from a metre or so away, she was being bombarded by people, too. I imagine she knew half the people here, with her being related to them. Though this didn't stop her from wishing she was elsewhere, most likely with a less revealing outfit on. I gently pushed past a couple to get to her, grabbing her hand, and escaping from the suffocation. We both found ourselves looking for someone bearably familiar.

I caught eyes with George once more and as I was about to step forwards, I got a tap on my shoulder. It was Charlie, "Think I might be able to steal you for this dance?" he nodded towards the dancefloor where Bill and Fleur were embarking on their first dance as a married couple. Arthur led Apolline to the floor and Monsieur Delacour followed Molly, "It's tradition that the best man and chief bridesmaid share a dance."

"I'd love to." I took his arm and the two of us walked onto the dancefloor. Charlie, having seemingly had little experience with dancing shuffled from side to side, feeling rather embarrassed, "Relax," I said, "it's only me!"

He breathed a sigh of relief, "I have no idea what I'm doing! I think I'd much rather be battling a dragon right now."

"Reminds me of something Harry said at the Yule Ball."

The two of us shared a laugh. I had my hand on his shoulder and placed his hand on my waist. Charlie attempting to guide me around the dancefloor saw his concentration grow and the conversation die. At one point he even got confident and attempted an unexpected spin. As we are both around the same height with me in these heels, this met with hilarious results as we bumped into another couple, whom neither of us knew. He apologised profusely as I tried to hold in my desire to chuckle.

At the end of the song, I was approached by one of Fleur's guests. He was tall, blond and rather handsome. He was confident with women, I could tell. He tried to schmooze me, saying that I look good on his arm. Compliments flew like arrows attempting to hit the bullseye. I was quickly able to determine that he wasn't that handsome, not when his face was accompanied by his ostentatious personality.

"You should come and see the chateaux." He told me as he led me gracefully around the dancefloor with ease, "We have acres of land where we grow ze grapes for wine."

"Oh wow." I pandered to him politely. Only able to get out two or three words at a time during the few minutes of conversation I've endured.

"So what do you theenk?" he said, taking my hand, kissing my knuckles gently.

I wiggled my ring finger on my left hand and smiled, "You take care now."

He lingered.

I felt a little on the uncomfortable side. Not that he was a threat, but I think he just needed to get the picture. My eyes scanned the room and I saw a familiar man standing alone, a brooding expression on his face, "REMUS! Dance with me."

Remus Lupin approached me with suspicion, but offered me his hand nonetheless, "Want to explain what that was?"

"Stage three cling." I explained, nodding towards Monsieur Beauchamp, "He was a little too familiar with me."

"Maybe it's just a French thing?" he shrugged his shoulders.

"Maybe." I responded, "But at least it's given me an excuse to dance with you. How are -?"

Remus twirled me and as I reconnected with him again, he changed the topic of conversation entirely, "So are you four leaving in the next couple of weeks?"

I felt myself frown at him with the sudden change, "I hardly think that is an appropriate thing to be discussing at a wedding with so many people around. Especially those who don't truly know who I am. And if they found out about Harry -"

"Remus -" Arthur nodded to him before turning to me, "Kathryn do you mind if I have this dance? There's bound to be a tradition where I dance with each of the bridesmaids?"

Remus quickly bowed out and offered my hand to Arthur, I smiled at him, "Either way, I'll gladly share a dance with you."

"I hope it's not inappropriate of me to comment on how well you look." Arthur said rather reservedly, before quickly saying, "Today has gone rather swimmingly, don't you think?"

"Thank you," I smiled, "the night is still young, Arthur, plenty of time for Freddie and me to drink too much and make fools out of ourselves!"

Arthur chuckled to himself as we gently swayed in rhythm to the music, "The two of you get on really well, don't you? Molly and I wondered if the dynamic would change once you moved in with the twins, but you've seemingly brought out the best in them."

"I wouldn't go that far!" I giggled, "Freddie and I have a great friendship. I know it's a bit unconventional but it works. We all look out for one another – we're family."

"Molly and I see you as one of our children, it amazes me how easily you fit in. It'll not be too long before we're having a celebration like this for you and George."

"I can't wait! There's been a lot of chat that today should have been our wedding day. But George and I are waiting in hope that the target on my back disappears, or at the very least shrinks."

He nodded in acceptance, "Do you have an idea when you might be leaving?"

"We all agreed that we'd stay for the wedding. I don't want to go yet; we still need to form a plan of action." I said honestly, "But we have to go, and we'll do so when the time is right."

The song came to an end and Arthur thanked me for my time and headed off to find Molly. I stood at the edge of the dancefloor and had a look around for a familiar face. Luna was dancing by herself not too far away, revolving on the spot, eyes closed, waving her arms. I had to blink twice when I spotted Ron and Hermione dancing together. They were smiling at each other, deep in conversation and there wasn't an ounce of awkwardness about them. Maybe…

"Hey you," Fred handed me a shot glass of Firewhiskey.

"You are a bad influence." I knocked the contents of the glass down my throat, feeling the sweet burn of the alcohol as it travelled down towards my empty stomach, "Is there any food?"

Fred reappeared moments later with a loaded silver tray, a bottle of Firewhiskey and a grin on his face, "Will this assortment do?" he refilled my glass before lifting one of the mini tarts and taking a bite, "Mmmm, this one's good."

The two of us retreated to a table and ate hungrily together, watching the crowd enjoying themselves, "Where's George?" I asked, "Too many gingers on that dance floor."

Fred gave me the look of disappointment in calling his family 'ginger' once again, though he knew I only said it in jest, "He's dancing with one of Fleur's Veela cousins. I think at this point I should also add that she asked him to dance and not the other way around."

"I wouldn't mind if he asked her," I said honestly, downing yet another shot of Firewhiskey each, "by this stage in our relationship, I'm pretty secure in the fact that at the end of the night it's going to be me in bed beside him." I tapped the ring Fred crafted on my left hand, "So are you gonna come dance with me and show these people how it's done?"

Fred grinned, rising from his seat, "Give me a minute."

"I vas vundering are you and the twin still dating?"

I blinked in surprise as Viktor Krum's frame came into view, "Eh, yeah!" I said in surprise, "But that doesn't mean you can't ask me for a dance?"

"Let's go then." He reached out to take my hand and led me to the dancefloor, taking my waist and leading me in the steps that I clearly didn't know.

"How are you?" I asked as I managed to get into the flow of the music, "It's good to see you."

"Herm-oh-ninny appears to be dating the ginger." He said grumpily.

I laughed, "Ron?"

"Vot is the point of being an international Quidditch player if all the good-looking girls are taken?" he asked, "Vy is it so difficult?"

"Maybe you're looking in the wrong places? Or you're expecting too much." I said between breaths, "I reckon that most of the time, you find someone when you least expect it. Don't go out looking for someone, go out with your friends, and have a good time being single. Then you'll bump into someone who loves you for who you are, not what you are. Take Fleur and Bill for example."

Viktor did not speak for the next minute as he contemplated my words, "Maybe vot I need is someone like you to introduce me to a nice girl."

"I'll let you know if I find anyone suitable."

He bowed to me at the end of the dance and I curtseyed, taking the lead from the rest of the women. Viktor soon disappeared, seemingly in desperate need to speak to a man who couldn't be anyone else but Luna's father.

The next song started after a short introduction by the band, stating that it was a choice by the Groom's brother. Fred raised his eyebrows excitedly at me as they started playing 'Man! I feel like a woman!'.

"LET'S GO GIRLS!" the two of us shouted across the room to each other. I couldn't control the booming laughter that escaped me as Freddie and I got our groove on, just like we did during my seventeenth birthday party which ended memorably. We took over the dance floor and did a bit of overenthusiastic line dancing and generally mucking about, as our inhibitions lowered with the previously consumed shots of alcohol.

As the song ended, the music returned to slow, traditional and boring. Fred and I shared a knowing look; they needed us to liven things up. I took it upon myself to approach the band and make my request to get all the guests up on their feet.

'When I dance, they call me Macarena…'

Fred and I grabbed people off their seats and arranged people into lines quickly and led the way as we completed the actions completely in sync. George joined us, he was beside Fred in the line behind with Lee, I had Tonks and Gabrielle beside me who were desperately watching copying the actions. With a wiggle and a clap, we moved on to the next repetition of actions. After a while, we had a load of guests up on the dancefloor, including the bride and groom who looked to be having a ball, enjoying having their nearest and dearest around them.

At the end of the song, Tonks offered a glass of non-alcoholic fruity cocktail. We stood at the edge of the dancefloor and watched as Bill and Fleur's croquembouche was revealed by one of the waiters. They were taken by surprise at the two phoenixes that took flight as they cut into the structure and the surrounding guests all cheered in amazement. I nodded towards Fred and George who were animatedly talking, spouting ear jokes to anyone who would listen, a few tables along.

"Well don't you look hot?" T commented, looking me up and down as she handed me the glass.

"Oh gosh, can you see sweat patches?"

Tonks snorted, "No, silly, you look HOT." She emphasised looking me up and down again, "Look at you."

"Oh," I giggled, giving my butt another cheeky wiggle, "the dress certainly isn't the most forgiving."

"It's good you've got the body to pull it off, then." She said, ignoring my poking and prodding at my stomach, "What's it been like being the centre of male attention?"

I frowned, "What d'you mean?"

She jokingly rolled her eyes and leaned in close, "There are a bunch of men around here that can't keep their eyes off you. One of which asked you to dance earlier."

I shrugged my shoulders, glancing around the room, completely oblivious to anyone and everyone who may or may not be looking in my direction, "Can't say I've noticed." I grabbed us another glass of cocktail each, "What about you and Remus, had many dances?"

"Oh yes, don't you worry about us."

The fact is, I did worry about them. Remus was closing himself off to me and I didn't know why. Was he scared of becoming a parent? Was he scared that his child might be part werewolf? Was he having second thoughts about his marriage? It made me sick thinking about it. He's a good man, he just has issues like the rest of us. He'll come around once Tonks starts showing and he can be more involved in the pregnancy. He probably just feels helpless seeing her feeling sick and exhausted and he can do nothing to help. That's got to be it.

"Are you keeping the pregnancy diary?" I asked. The two of us were now fully submerged into our sibling-like bubble, "Any weird cravings?"

"Yeah, I love strawberry milkshakes. Can't get enough of them." She smiled, "Gosh, I wish I had one right now." She shook her head as though to rid herself of the thoughts and straightened down her black and grey patterned dress, "I'm starting to show now, too. Apparently, Peanut is about the size of a plum now."

I smiled, trying to inconspicuously look at her tiny rounding tummy, "You're so beautiful."

"You're the beautiful one." She nodded towards an approaching French boy, "Here's proof, he'll not even look at me."

"May I 'ave zis dance?" he asked me, reaching his hand out and offering the largest of smiles. The song was slow and romantic and all I could think of at that moment was George and how much I didn't want to have to touch this boy's excessively sweaty body.

I glanced at Tonks who gave me the 'I told you so' look, as I responded, "Non merci, j'ai un petit ami." His head dropped to the ground and he disappeared quickly.

"What did you say to him?" Tonks questioned.

"Well, I'm hoping that translated as I have a boyfriend," I said, "Which could extend to please back off and leave me be."

T's eyes followed him as he returned to his friends, "Well, whatever you said, I think you broke his heart."

"Don't say things like that! I'll feel bad enough that I'll have to go over there and dance with him."

"Anyone else catching your eye?" she looked amongst the French visitors and the reams of Weasley cousins, of whom I knew none, "Let's dance and see who comes over. This seems like our sort of song."

I wasn't familiar with the song, but it was upbeat and fun. Tonks sang away to me, as the two of us twirled one other and gave some kicks and flicks, joining in with a few of the Weasley cousins. At the end of the song, I nearly fell over myself as my heel got caught in my dress which caused a fit of uncontrollable giggles. "Smooth," T commented as I made it look like I planned to almost fall flat on my face.

"Oh shush, you." I wrapped my arms around her, holding on tighter than I think she was expecting, before gazing at her, wanting to savour this memory, "You look amazing. Pregnancy suits you."

She smiled brightly, "So, did you see anyone?"

"There's this guy, over there in the corner," I inconspicuously nodded my head in George's direction, "he just can't keep his eyes off me. Do you think I should say hello?"

T laughed, "I'll introduce you. I can definitely see love blossoming there." She took me by the hand and dragged me across the room towards George where he smiled at me before paying attention to what T had to whisper into his ear. I have no idea what she said, but he beamed and my goodness did he look handsome.

"Fancy giving this one-eared, strikingly handsome redhead a dance?" he approached me and offered his hand.

"I was wondering how long it was going to take you to ask."

George placed both his hands on my hips, encouraging me to place my arms around his neck as we slow-danced. He was taking possession of me for everyone to see. I couldn't resist kissing him, just like we did at the Yule Ball. What we had was so natural and easy. Our eyes never left the other as he said, "Do you know how hard it is standing there watching other guys give you attention?"

"Aw Georgie, are you jealous?"

George pulled me in close so that my hips were pressed against him and our lips were almost touching, "Yes, in fact, I believe I am. Do you want to know why?"

"Why?" I pandered to him.

"Because when another guy gets to hold you, even for a second, he's holding my whole world in his hands and I don't think he'll ever realise that."

My heart melted. I drew him closer to me, slowly closing the gap between us to kiss him tenderly, "Let's get out of here."

George carried me bridal style into the bedroom as we shared sweet kisses. Laying me down on the bed, I undid the straps on my shoes as George locked the door and hurriedly undressed.

"Can you unzip me?" I asked, standing up, holding my hair to the side.

"I've been dying to do this," he breathed into my ear as he slowly unzipped the dress, placing tiny kisses on my shoulders and neck as he did, "and every time I close my eyes I dream of this thong."

I giggled, "Is it really that obvious?"

"Yep." He said with a grin as he caused the dress to fall to the ground in a heap, revealing my every curve and imperfection, which sparked an immediate reaction in his body that he could not control, "Makes a man jealous."

"But you have nothing to worry about, they can look…" I said, taking his hands and placing them on me, "but they can't touch… my body is yours and yours alone."

"Oh, I do love you…" George breathed as we laid in a crumpled mess on his bed.

I propped up my head with my hand, "I love you more than you will ever comprehend." I spoke completely honestly, "So thank you for making this girl feel very special."

"I don't know how many more opportunities I'll have to do that to you between now and when you leave," he wiggled his eyebrows cheekily, "at least you'll have a lasting memory of me."

I couldn't help but laugh and give him a loving dig, before stroking his cheek and him kissing my thumb gently, "I'll miss you; this complete package you've got going on."

George reached over me and grabbed the litteras occultas, "Make sure you don't forget to bring this -" as I was about to react, he interrupted me, "I know you can't tell me where you are or what you're up to, but a message a day, just like always, so that I know that you're okay and I can sleep a little easier at night."

I didn't say anything, I just smiled at how completely adorable he was being.

"What?" he questioned.

"I love you."

"No matter how much I'd love to keep you up here all to myself, I'd better get the bridesmaid back to join the wedding party." George grabbed my dress off the floor and helped me step into it, carefully fixing me to a less dishevelled look, "People might think we've been up to no good."

I snorted before reaching to give him a lasting kiss, "Let them think what they want to think."

The two of us walked hand in hand back to the celebrations, integrating ourselves onto the dancefloor as though we'd never left. The music was livelier now and we spotted Fred and Lee dancing with Ginny, so naturally, we had to be part of that action. Fred did give me the look and I found myself shouting into his ear, "Ask me no questions and I'll tell you no lies."

He twirled me around and pulled me in close to say, "You've both got that look about you. The one we first saw when you returned from France." He wiggled his eyebrows, "You make him so happy, I'm glad he's got you."

I kissed his cheek gently, "I'm the lucky one."

"Can I get some of that?" George sidled up beside me and tapped his cheek expectantly.

I didn't make him wait, but he was cheeky and moved his head as I reached up to his cheek and we ended up locking lips, "You know, all you had to do was ask." I put my arms around his neck and kissed him like I meant it.

"Oooph! Is it getting hot in here, or is just those two?" Ginny joked.

I winked, "Drinks anyone?"

"I'll come with you," Ginny said as we collected everyone's preferences and scoured the room for one of the servers with a drinks tray, "I can't believe that's the time already!" The sky outside was darkening quickly, and I could have sworn I saw a shooting star, but it was coming right our way… The large silver ball of gleaming light appeared in the middle of the dancefloor where Fred, George and Lee were now frozen in shock. The light transformed into a silvery lynx and the Patronus spoke in the loud, deep, slow voice of Kingsley Shacklebolt.

"The Ministry has fallen. Scrimgeour is dead. They are coming."

Someone screamed.

"Kathryn! Ron!" I heard Hermione shout from behind me as panic ensued amongst the wedding guests. I grabbed my wand from under my dress and prepared myself to fight. Guests sprinted in every direction, and Ginny grabbed my hand and held on tight as people started to apparate, breaking the protective enchantments around The Burrow.

Within seconds, cloaked, masked figures started appearing.

"Ginny." I got her attention, "I've got to go…"

She nodded; she didn't need to say anything. We both knew what this meant. Ginny let go of my hand and pushed through the guests to get to the safety of the twins as I turned around to get to Harry and Hermione. Bolts of red and green lights flew overhead as I desperately tried to reach my friends. I made myself invisible and walked through people before reaching Harry and Hermione who had just found Ron.

Making myself visible for them to see me, I turned to get one last glimpse of George. He caught sight of me and I shouted, "I love -"

Hermione grabbed my arm, and my insides started to twist and turn. We disapparated.