Shoving her feelings down, Hermione put on her prettiest dress and left her hair loose, though she still wore her bracers and had strapped on her red leather holster so she could have her khopesh and scythe at the ready. It didn't exactly go with her mint green dress, but she didn't really care at the moment. She went down to the cellar and found the usual magic wards set up in the concrete wall. She painted some new ones that could be removed when all was said and done. There. Now, all she would have to do is focus and she would be able to locate any intruders within the grounds without violating the privacy of everyone here.
She went up to the ballroom and was hailed over by Fleur who was getting more punch from the buffet.
"Are you okay?" Fleur asked. "You were not injured?"
"No, just some cuts," said Hermione. "Just taking precautions. Updated the wards."
"Good. Sirius, Molly, Mad-Eye, and Kingsley are moving everyone's things here," said Fleur. "Bill is staying in the honeymoon suite and his groomsmen will get ready there and we've already shuffled the current arrangements. I'll be staying with Cássia, Quripuma, and Márcia."
"I could take some people in my room," said Hermione.
Fleur hesitated.
"You should get a good night's rest," she said. "You are working so hard."
Okay, let her translate that.
"So people are too afraid to bunk with me?"
Fleur sighed and nodded. "I don't know what I would do without you. I already want to name you godmother to all my children."
Hermione glanced down at Fleur's stomach.
"Girl, are you…?"
"Ah, mai non!" Fleur laughed, flushing pink. "We decided to wait for our wedding night for… that."
"Just checking, so I don't have to have a bucket nearby. I hear morning sickness can hit whenever."
"I would recommend a fire extinguisher when the time comes," said Fleur. "When Maman was pregnant with Gabby, she would burp fire. I do not know how the werewolf blood in me will affect that or any potential babies."
"Huh, good to know."
"If you aren't expecting another attack, why do you have your weapons?"
"The man who sleeps with a machete under his pillow is a fool every night except one."
Fleur conceded that.
"It's such a shame," said one of the aunts from Bill's side.
"I know," sighed the other. She wasn't a relative, but a family friend. "Bill is such a handsome young man and yet he chose her? I have daughters and nieces much more suitable."
"She looks more like a boggart than a bride."
"It's only a matter of time before he turns his head."
Tears welled up in Fleur's eyes while the old bats twittered. Hermione set her jaw and grabbed them by the shoulders. They flinched, not realizing they had an audience. Or perhaps they did and weren't expecting to be confronted over it.
"How dare you say such awful things?" she snarled. "Those scars are a mark of her bravery and love for Bill! She shines more beautifully than anyone in this room and he is damn lucky to have her. If you're gonna keep making comments like this, I had better not see you at the wedding tomorrow!"
"Well, I never!" the aunt huffed. "Do you talk to your grandmother that way?"
"Of course not, she's a really nice lady who earns respect."
While they spluttered some nonsense about respecting all elders, which really meant that they didn't want to be held accountable for what they said or did, Hermione took Fleur to the toilets so she could calm down.
"Maybe I should wear a veil," Fleur sniffled. "A thick one. I don't think I can stand everyone looking at me like they always do!"
"Uh-uh, no way," said Hermione, resting her hands firmly on her friend's shoulders. "You planned this wedding. Sure, maybe I executed some things and wrote some letters, but this whole thing is your vision. What, you think Bill is gonna look at the place and go, 'yeah, you're right, we were smart to use garland instead of cramming an arbor into the temple' or 'wow, darling! Pink, sage, pearl, and gold is a better color scheme than navy, sky blue, and ecru!'"
Fleur laughed weepily and sniffled.
"But… but what if the attack today was a sign?" she fretted.
"I don't believe that an attack on my fugitive werewolf boyfriend—ex-boyfriend—is a metaphor for what your marriage will be like."
"What if Bill decides he can no longer stand to look at me?"
"He won't," said Hermione. "Listen, Fleur, I know Bill loves you. When you walk down the aisle, don't look at the crowd, just keep your eyes on Bill."
Fleur hugged Hermione tightly and hiccupped.
"Ready to get back to it?"
"Yes."
Fleur washed her face and they went back out to the ballroom. Hermione looked at the buffet and suddenly felt sick to her stomach.
"Er… I think I'm just going to turn in," she said. "Maybe watch something before I fall asleep. Tell Esperanza to make the announcement, she can command a room."
"You should eat something," said Fleur.
"I'll be fine." Hermione hugged her and hurried back to her room.
She changed into her pajamas and used the mirror above her dresser as a TV. She sat crisscross on the end of her bed and tried not to think of anything. It was okay. She was fine. Nobody was killed on her watch this time. The hotel was safe. Mad-Eye, Sirius, Kingsley, and Mrs. Weasley were back and sorting out the new room assignments. Those who knew what happened were no doubt bunking together to avoid too many questions. No need to cause a panic.
As she was considering going to sleep to avoid dealing with her problems, she noticed Cedric hurry down the hallway and pause at her door. He waffled for a few moments, so she got up and answered it, nearly causing him to drop the tray in his hands. Crookshanks and Belle were winding around his legs, no doubt brought so they wouldn't be left all alone at Sirius' house.
"Oh! Right. Star eye," he said sheepishly. "Erm… I brought you something to eat."
"Thank you," she said, taking the tray. "Do you want to come in?"
He entered the room, spotted the mirror, and tipped his head. "Huh! I didn't know the spell worked on VHS tapes too."
"Yeah, you just have to write it out on a piece of painter's tape," she said and set the tray on her desk. She lifted the metal lid off the plate to find eggs, toast, and bacon. "Thank you."
"Of course."
"You should practice," she said. "For tomorrow."
"Oh, right."
She returned to her seat, but left space for Cedric to sit by her. He got the hint and sat down with his borrowed guitar. The cats hopped up behind them and curled up together. Hermione ate her dinner while Cedric went over the music, then got up to brush her teeth again. She set her dishes on the desk, figuring she could take care of them tomorrow.
While she was flossing, he played the set perfectly.
"I er… should probably let you get some sleep," said Cedric. "I just… I wanted to make sure you ate something and… and were okay."
Hermione felt a sting of anxiety and ran out of the bathroom.
"Where are you staying?" she asked.
"I just said I'd figure it out," he admitted. "I can sleep in the lobby."
"Nonsense. Stay here with me."
"I—are you sure?"
"Yes." She hugged herself rather than reach for him like she wanted to. "Please?"
"As you wish." He shrugged off his backpack and set it next to the chair where her purse sat.
"Want to watch something?" she asked. "I have lots of videos to choose from."
"I'd like that," he said. "Something with a happy ending."
While he changed into his pajamas and brushed his teeth, Hermione went through her movies and set up the Goonies. She pulled extra pillows out of the closet and set them up at the headboard. She also got out extra blankets. For a magic hotel, the heating system really wasn't the best. Cedric stepped out with his pajama bottoms tucked into cabin socks and wore a thick hoodie and warm hat (not moth-eaten this time). He sat down on the bed and pulled Belle into his lap before leaning against the cushioned headboard.
Hermione got the movie going and sat down next to him. She looked at the scar running down the side of his face.
"Are you okay?" she asked.
"I was terrified that he was going to hurt you," he said. "But… yeah. I can finally stop running so… I'm brilliant. And I have you to thank for that."
He threw his arms around her and hugged her as tight as he could.
"Does me saving your life indebt you to me for thirty years of service or until you save my life?" she asked.
"Er, no, we never did that ritual," he said. "Mum put her foot down about that, I'm told. That sort of thing used to be commonplace, but now it's almost unheard of and the secret of how to enact it is only told and performed by the most elite and ancient of bloodlines. You know… morons."
She snorted and cracked up. Cedric grinned.
The trailers ended and the movie started, so they settled back to watch. This was good. This was right. Hermione rested her cheek on Cedric's shoulder. It was thin and bony. He was almost unfamiliar. She remembered him from when he did farm work. When he was burly and soft. Of course, all that was gone thanks to a mix of werewolf transformations and over a year's worth of starvation, but his energy signature was the same. That hadn't changed.
She must've dozed off because she remembered the kids finding the dead body in the freezer, but when she looked up the credits were rolling. She flicked her wrist to disconnect everything and sat up to work the kinks out of her neck.
"Mimi?"
"Hm?" She looked over at Cedric.
"Er… you never answered my question earlier," he said. "Since we got attacked and all, but I mean it. Can I go with you? I want to be wherever you are and I swear, I will never leave like I did again. Or similar manners. Never again. Pinkie promise."
He extended his pinkie. Hermione pursed her lips.
"It's more fighting," she said. "I'm going back in. I'm going to end the war."
"Then we'll end it together."
She hooked her pinkie with his and they shook on it.
The tears she thought she was too cold to feel bubbled up and fell hot down her cheeks. She fell into Cedric and buried her face into his chest, weeping. He held her close.
"Tell me what's going on," he said.
"I can't," she croaked. "I swore not to tell."
"Then show me." He cupped her cheeks and swiped her tears away with his thumbs. "Showing isn't the same as telling and I'm bound to the secret, same as you."
She sniffled and pulled him down so her forehead was touching his. She projected everything that happened since he left. Everything that caused her pain. And everything she had done to cause pain to others. What she did to Dumbledore, letting the Death Eaters in, ducking and letting Marietta take the killing curse. God, her face and Char's agony.
Hermione whimpered and collapsed in on herself.
'I'm a monster,' she thought.
"No," he murmured. "I think… I think that you've just been dealt a shitty hand and you played it to the best of your abilities. I'm sorry to hear that things ended the way they did with Cho—Char… I can't say I'm entirely surprised with that match. I did sense some mixed up feelings from her. You being at the heart of them… things click."
'I can't tell her what I did.'
"No," he agreed. "But I also think that Marietta knew the risks going into the fight. Just because you and Hogwarts were one doesn't mean you could have predicted or prevented everything. The Death Eaters would have gotten in one way or another. Even if you had removed the Vanishing Cabinet, they would have found a way. Hermione, if you hadn't gotten involved, I think a lot more people would have died."
She had repeated this to herself, but it was different coming from someone else.
Choking back another sob, she threw her arms around him. He said nothing else and just held her until her tears were spent.
~o0o~
Hermione switched off her shrill alarm and groaned, dropping her head back into her pillow. It was still dark outside, but in here was nice and warm.
"Any reason your alarm is set that early?" Cedric mumbled into her shoulder.
"Mm… I gotta wrangle the groomspeople and go to the site to sign off on deliveries."
"Isn't that supposed to be Cecilia's job?"
"You couldn't get her to organize dinner. It's fine. She's good at moral support and following directions and I don't want Bill having another meltdown because he thinks he's unworthy of Fleur."
She detangled herself from Cedric and the blankets and swung her legs over the side of the bed. She wasn't sure if she meant to fall asleep next to him. She had intended to sleep on the floor, but when her tears were spent, she was exhausted. She switched on the lamp, making Cedric wince. She glanced back to see him pull the hood of his sweatshirt over his head and draw it tight.
"Don't look," she said. "I'm going to get dressed."
"No problem," he said, rolling over and pulling the blankets over his head.
As she changed into jeans and a jumper, she realized for the first time in over a year, she hadn't had any nightmares while she slept. Best not to read too deep into that. She needed to focus. She would be changing into her suit with everyone else in Esperanza's room. She pulled on her boots and readied to rally the troops. It would take them an hour to get up and going and probably another to eat breakfast. Everything would be delivered to the site at 9:30 and then they had to set everything up. Magic or no, that could still take up to an hour. They would need to bulk up spells, arrange everything, fix the wind speed if needed, and have the site guards arrive to keep an eye on everything and let guests in.
Lots to do.
She brought out her checklist and glanced back at Cedric. He was sleeping soundly, so she left quietly and went to each room, knocking on doors to wake up groomspeople, plus Bill and the Aurors.
"Morning, Miss Granger," said Mad-Eye gruffly. "What's the schedule?"
"Coffee up cranky groomspeople, wrangle them together for breakfast, then go to the site and accept the delivery of the decorations and furniture. We have the chairs, tables, the runner, the entrance arbor, the garland, the flowers, the chairs, I already said chairs. Plus we need to erect a stage for the band that is up to code because we do not want to get sued."
"And you're certain we won't be attacked again?"
"No," she admitted. "But it's highly unlikely. I bet they're relying on the Hunter to take me out and once he sends Our Good Friend word of his success, they'll send others. Considering how long it took him to chase down Cedric and the orders to take me out are fairly recent, they might not expect to hear back from him for a while yet. So when the others are safely back at Beauxbatons, I intend to send the hunter's hat along as a message."
"Buying us time," Mad-Eye concluded, nodding. "You say you're called the Weather?"
"That's right."
"How does one become a member?"
"You ask and promise to look out for others in the group and to trust each other," she said. "That's all."
"I think I might take that friendship bracelet now," he said. "You don't mind if the Order is still around do you?"
"No, but I think it might be best if we're aware of each other's plans so there's no kerfuffle," said Hermione, summoning the chest. She rummaged through the bracelets and found a black and white one that suited him. "Here we are."
She connected it to him and tied it to his wrist.
"You would make a decent Auror," he said.
"Can there be a decent Auror in a broken system?" she asked. "I'd rather spend my efforts making sure another 'Good Friend' can't happen."
"Fair enough."
She frowned. "They're taking too long. Do they want this wedding to happen or not?"
"If they're running behind, you and I can always go ahead and accept the deliveries," said Mad-Eye.
"Yeah." She filled her plate and sat down to eat.
"What's your plan for getting back in?" Mad-Eye asked.
"I'm going to do something they'll never expect," she said. "I'm driving and taking the train that takes cars. By car, if I'm attacked, I know I'll have an easier time evading them. What about you?"
"Until the Ministry falls, we carry on as normal," said Mad-Eye. "Remain vigilant. As I am retired, I will be searching for allies. Keep myself on the move. The target on my back has always been a big one."
"Works for me."
When she finished her breakfast, the groomspeople still had yet to make an appearance. Growling, she stormed back upstairs and pounded on their doors.
"Oh, God, the Monster of Honor is back," she heard one of them say.
Feeling her eye twitch, she rubbed her temple. She should've put the bridal party in charge, they respected her more.
"Need some help?" Márcia asked. She had hidden her tail beneath enchanted robes, scared of being attacked by the jumpy visitors. "I can get the others."
Hermione took a deep breath and nodded. "That would be great. Thank you."
When she left to get Alejandro, Blaise, Cássia, and Quripuma, Tonks and Cecilia exited their room.
"Sorry, Nia," Cecilia yawned. "Turned off the alarm and went back to sleep."
"The delivery time is soon," said Hermione. "Get the rest of the party together while I go to sign off on everything. Please, try not to be late. You all think I'm bitchy? Wait until you have to assuage the old people."
Tonks chuckled and saluted. "Aye-aye, captain!"
Hermione walked down to Fred and George's room and knocked on the door. It flung open and Draco ran out.
"I don't care what teasing I get," he said. "Next time, I'm sleeping in your room."
"Alright, but you're sleeping in the bathtub," she said and leaned against the door jamb. "Fred, George, Lee."
"Yes?" they chorused.
"I have the seating chart for dinner," she held up the paper. "You three and a couple of Fleur's cousins are ushers. Can you get it to Bily and Claudette? I'm not sure what room they're staying in."
"You can count on us!" said Fred while George got the paper from her.
"By the way, where's Cedric?" asked Lee.
"Still sleeping, I reckon," she said. "Best to let him. I'll fetch him when I come back to get ready. Duckie, you're with me."
The cold was already seeping into the wedding site, so Márcia and Quripuma replenished the greenhouse spell while Mad-Eye and Hermione set up the protective wards.
"You there, boy," said Mad-Eye. "Malfoy. Your arm. Will that be an issue?"
Draco touched his dark mark. "I'm not one of them. I swear that on my magic. And this sleeve helps me in and out of the wards. They'll shock me, but they won't kill me."
"Sirius says he trusts you, so I'll trust him and Granger, but I've got my eye on you, lad."
"The flowers are here," Cássia called.
Hermione jogged over to sign off on them. Alejandro helped her wrap the Temple pillars in garland.
"Where are those lazy groomspeople?" Hermione huffed. "I knew I should have grabbed the decorations when I had the chance."
"Ouch! It hurts being called lazy," said Tonks, entering through the tunnel. "Not that I'm not used to it. We've got the chairs and everything, too. All hundred and sixty-two! They were gonna charge us for more than double than what we need, can you believe that?"
Hermione tipped her head. "So… you're saying we have to tell the guests to pick up their chair and carry it into the dining area? And that the wedding party must stand while we eat?"
"Um…"
"I'll just… go call them back," said Cecilia, booking it back through the tunnel.
"You do that. For now, set those chairs up in nine rows on either side of the aisle. I have the spacing marked. And someone help me set up the arbors over the bridge—ACHOO!"
She sniffled. Damn roses.
It took a bit longer than she expected for them to set up everything, but that was alright, because she had time buffers set up. Once it looked like nothing was going to collapse or catch fire without her, she returned to the hotel to get ready. She went to her room first and found it empty. Cedric must've gone to breakfast. She turned around and found Bill pacing around the mezzanine.
"Hey," she said. "Shouldn't you be getting ready?"
"Er, yes," he replied. "Viktor is bringing down my suit. I was turned away when I tried to speak to Fleur."
"You should know it's bad luck to see the bride," said Hermione, though she didn't see much logic in that superstition. "The others should be back shortly. We had a late start."
"That might be because we were up until four in the morning playing cards," he said sheepishly. "I was so excited, I couldn't sleep."
"That explains it. I guess I can forgive that."
"Here," said Viktor, rolling the garment rack along. "I apologize for the delay, Esperanza wanted to make sure you knew that just because it is stain and water resistant doesn't mean you can go rolling around in the mud. Resistant not proof. Resistant not proof. There. I have told you three times as requested."
Bill chuckled. "Thanks. I'll go take this to my room now."
"I'll walk back with you, Viktor."
She entered the room to see Cedric already dressed in his tuxedo while Esperanza fussed with his hair.
"Ah, there you are, Nia," she said. "For Cedric, down or up?"
Hermione's brain reset. He looked gorgeous.
"Er… I think… Those of us with long hair are doing updos, so… up." She cleared her throat and sat down on the edge of the bed.
Fleur was sprawled out in her dressing gown. She had a hot towel on her face and her nails were freshly painted pink with gold flecks.
"Hey, you good?" Hermione asked.
"Fine." Her voice was muffled by the towel. "My cousin just told me that putting a mask on the day of my wedding will make me break out. I told her that acne is the least of my worries."
"It's an updated jélvre mask," said Esperanza. "It will soften the scars a bit more and it's very refreshing. It even worked on the scars on my back."
"That's good."
"Want some for those scars?"
"Maybe some other time," she said, touching the puncture marks from the horcrux lightly. "I'm not ashamed of them but they do make it tough to hide my identity. Know what? I better do it."
She used a bandana to keep her hair back before applying the mask with a brush.
"Fleur," said Esperanza, bringing out a box. "Before the others get here, I have some lingerie for you to pick from for your wedding night. The designs have all been tested and approved."
"Yeah they have!" said Viktor enthusiastically.
Hermione snorted while Fleur sat up, blushing furiously.
"You can't just talk about that!" she squawked.
"Dulce, you're getting married!" said Esperanza. "Unless you're planning on a celibate marriage."
"No, we're not…" Fleur picked her towel back up and dragged it down her face.
"It's not wrong," said Esperanza. "But if it embarrasses you to talk about it, you can take the box behind the divider and pick one. They all work under your dress and if you want extra security, I have bloomers you can put on."
"Fine!" she squeaked and jumped up to wash her face. "Let's do my hair and makeup first, okay?"
When she sat down at the vanity, she took one look at herself and broke down crying. Harry and Gabby chose that moment to enter the room.
"Fleur! What's wrong?" Gabby asked.
"I look hideous!" Fleur wailed.
Everyone started talking over one another in an attempt to bolster her. Ginny walked in and started backing out until Hermione pulled her in.
"Nice haircut," she said.
Ginny grinned and carded her fingers through her pixie cut.
"Mum went ballistic when she saw it," she said. "But she cut Charlie's hair last night and it looked horrible. Don't worry, Esperanza grew it back out and then I asked her if she could cut my hair."
"Cool."
"Stop!" Cedric yelled at the others and turned Fleur around. "Hey, look at me."
Fleur sniffled and he picked up a towel to wipe her cheeks.
"Beauty is relative," he said, applying her makeup once her face was cleaned up. "I know that when Bill looks at you all he can think is 'she chose me! I can't believe a woman as graceful and skilled and wonderful as her picked me.'"
He looked at Hermione and projected a thought. She nodded and fetched a jar of gold paint and a clean brush from Esperanza's makeup trunk. He took it and started painting Fleur's face.
"In Japan," he continued. "There is an art form that takes something that was once broken and rather than erasing it, they draw attention to it with gold. Accepting imperfections helps us break free from obsession with perfectionism."
When he was done with her, he painted gold over his own scars, then turned Fleur back to the mirror. He hugged her and rested his chin on her shoulder.
"There. Now we match," he said. "If anyone says something nasty, it's only because they know they'll never look this cool and can't deal with it."
Fleur smiled and leaned into him. Hermione snapped a photo of the scene. There were no shortages of scars in this part, so they all agreed to paint them over. Face, neck, hands. Whatever was visible.
The mood lightened up significantly and they all joked and laughed and poked fun at each other.
"I know I will be focused on William, but I do want to attend your wedding tomorrow," said Fleur to Esperanza and Viktor.
"Is not much of wedding," said Viktor. "We are just eloping at courthouse, but we will have official ceremony in a few years."
Esperanza kissed his temple. "But I am excited to call you my husband."
He made a most un-Viktor-like squeak and threw his arms around her to shower her with kisses.
"God, I remember when all you two would do is exchange longing glances when you thought the other wasn't looking," said Cedric. "I felt like a Jane Austen novel was unfolding in front of me."
"You're one to talk," said Esperanza. "Getting you and Nia together is like pulling teeth. Where are you even at right now?"
"At least you never ruined your chances with a girl by kissing her," Harry groaned, hanging his head.
"I never realized you were hung up on Daphne," said Hermione.
"I'm not hung up!" he said defensively. "I'm just… wondering where we'd be if I hadn't mucked it up."
"Yeah, that's not being hung up at all."
Hermione stepped out from behind the room divider and moved to the mirror to do her bowtie. Her locs had been rearranged and twisted up into a faux hawk decorated with gold, rhinestone, and faux pearl bobbins. She thought she looked good. Like a main character in a spy novel going undercover at a fancy gala.
"We've got thirty minutes. I'm going to be scouting ahead to make sure the groom isn't lagging behind to catch a glimpse of the bride before it's time." She stepped into her shoes and flicked her fingers so they would tie themselves.
"Mimi, here." Cedric held out an allergy pill.
"Oh, thank you for reminding me." She dry swallowed it and turned back to fiddling with her tie. "Where are the bouquets?"
Nobody answered and she turned around, repeating sharply, "Where are the bouquets?!"
"I thought… you were getting them," said Harry, betraying that they were indeed supposed to handle it.
"Mmhm." Hermione rolled her eyes and hurried out to find the cart. She checked the lobby first, only to find Aunt Muriel and her friends picking at them while they gossiped. "Hey, hey, hey! What the hell are you doing?! Those are for the wedding party!"
"Oh, so sorry young man," said Aunt Muriel. "We had no idea."
Bitch.
"Yeah, sure, it's socially acceptable to shred apart flower bouquets!" Hermione growled. "FREDERICK!"
"I didn't do it!" said Fred, hurrying over. "Sorry, reflex. What's up?"
"Try to control your stupid aunt!" she snapped. "What am I supposed to do with these now? God, they look like rabbits had at them!"
She grabbed the cart and stormed off towards the elevator. What sort of game were they playing? Destroying the bouquets. What, did they think the wedding would get cancelled over some stupid flowers? Or did they do this to upset Fleur? Hermione's aunts weren't this stupid and they knew better than to behave this way. And what was with the 'young man' stuff? She wasn't even trying to be masculine. She had waxed her lip and everything.
Cedric was waiting for her in the hall, looking alarmed.
"I could feel your anger as you were coming up, what happened?" he asked.
"Aunt Muriel is what happened," said Hermione, gesturing to the ruined bouquets and pile of petals.
He looked at them and scoffed in disgust. "What should we do?"
"We're going to have to take out the ruined ones, conjure some filler flowers, and hope they last through the photos. Come on, let's hurry."
Cedric helped her unwrap them and move the better ones over to the bridal bouquet. They conjured peonies and baby's breath for the smaller bouquets.
"God, they specifically went after the gold-rimmed ones. Those were specially ordered."
"Let's try this." Cedric tapped a conjured flower with his wand, turning some of the petals a shimmery gold color. "Will that work?"
"Great." She inhaled deeply and exhaled. "Really. They do look good."
They gave the rest the same treatment.
Cedric rested a hand on her shoulder. "As soon as the music starts, everything is out of your control and it will happen how it happens."
"You're right," she said and wheeled the cart into the room. "All present and accounted for. Come and get them, please do not lose them. Oh, shoot, I forgot to check if the groom's party left yet. Hold on."
She pressed her hand against the wall and connected to the runes she placed in the cellar.
"They're not in the hotel," she said. "Actually, we're all that's left, so we should probably go."
She disconnected and turned to Fleur. "Ready?"
"Yes!"
The gown was perfect for her. It stood against her pale skin and made the small batch of freckles on her shoulders more apparent. Her hair was styled into a chignon and perched on top of her head was a beautiful tiara. The gold was the right choice and made her cracked porcelain face whole again.
"You look beautiful," said Hermione. "Let's roll."
She tossed her checklist onto the bed, deciding she no longer needed it.
It wasn't a far walk to the gardens, barely ten minutes. Ginny and Viktor helped keep the train of Fleur's dress off the ground so it wouldn't get dirty. It was snowing lightly again, but they would be within the greenhouse spell soon enough.
Cedric tipped his face up and inhaled deeply.
"Smell anything?" Hermione asked.
"Not out of the ordinary," he said and made sure the guitar was in tune as they approached the tunnel.
"Alright, remember your lineup from yesterday?" Hermione asked.
"No," said Ginny.
"Screw it, as long as Fleur's in the back and I'm in the front, we'll be fine."
They walked through the tunnel to find everyone sitting and waiting. The place looked absolutely perfect, which Hermione was happy about. The groom's party, except for Cecilia, was waiting for them. Bastien stepped forward with Agathe to stand with Fleur.
"Is the camera rolling?" Hermione asked.
Alejandro gave her a thumb's up.
"Okay, line up." Hermione took her place at the front and plastered a smile on her face. It was all out of her hands now. The bell was tolling fifteen after the hour. She raised her hand in a signal.
Cedric began to play Hymne à l'amour and they began the procession across the bridge, through the gossamer curtains, and down the aisle. It was lovely. Bill was standing on the steps wearing a suit as snowy white as Fleur's dress and looking… well, a bit like a candle with his red hair and freckled face, but he was glowing nevertheless. Cecilia stood next to him, keeping her hair brown so as to not distract from him.
Hermione stepped onto the second step, leaving plenty of space for Fleur. Once everyone had lined up, Esperanza took a deep breath.
"Come what may," she sang, sliding her hand into Viktor's. "Come what may. I will love you, until my dying day."
Sweet guitar music filled the air. Agathe walked down the aisle, tossing her flower petals in the air.
"And you can tell everybody, this is your song/ It may be quite simple but/ Now that it's done/ I hope you don't mind, I hope you don't mind/ That I put down in words. How wonderful life is now you're in the world."
The entire wedding party, sans Bill, joined in singing the chorus in a round as Fleur walked down the aisle. She was glowing with a white light and shone more beautifully than anyone. She was beaming, her eyes fixated on Bill. Hermione looked at the groom to find him beaming as well, tears of joy in his eyes.
Fleur stepped on the stairs and the singing stopped abruptly as the notes from the guitar hummed. Cedric sang the last line as Fleur was given away by Bastien.
"How wonderful life is while you're in the world."
Hermione took Fleur's bouquet and cradled it in her arms.
That small moment, where the words settled in the minds of the guests and Bill and Fleur were holding hands and gazing at each other with pure unconditional love sent many to tears before the officiant could even begin speaking.
The short man spoke of the sanctity of marriage and what it meant and the new responsibilities Bill and Fleur would have to each other and their household. Hermione wasn't really listening, she was keeping an eye on their surroundings.
"May I have the rings?"
Cecilia fished the ring box out of her pocket. Bill and Fleur exchanged them as they recited their vows. The officiant then drew his wand and had the couple clasp their hands together. He drew two separate ropes the same color as Bill and Fleur's respective magics.
"Both of these ropes represent their past, and their own individual and separate lives before today," he said, waving his wand to tie the ropes together around their wrists. "As they intertwine the ropes, they join their two lives into one, representing the present. The finished knot symbolizes their future, and how their love and marriage will continue to be strong. This is one of the strongest knots that can be tied. When the knot is completed and the ends are pulled, the knot becomes so strong that the rope will break before it comes undone. William Arthur Weasley and Fleur Belphoebe Delacour, may this be a reminder of the strength of your love and the binding together of your two hearts."
The knot grew bright before dissipating.
"By the Power vested in me by the Ministry of Magic of France, I now pronounce you husband and wife," the officiant continued. "You may kiss."
In her excitement, Fleur threw her arms around Bill's neck and kissed him. He dipped her low, kissing her well.
"Are you crying, Gin?" Harry whispered.
"Only a little!"
Hermione swiped her own tears away with her knuckles and turned to the applauding crowd. She waved her hand and the trail of lanterns lit up.
"If you will make your way to the adjacent garden, the reception will begin as soon as we are done with photos."
Mrs. Weasley stood up first and picked up the photo of Mr. Weasley, which had been placed lovingly in the chair next to her. She blotted her face with a handkerchief and shuffled into the reception area.
The photographer approached and used several light spells since the sun was setting fast. They took serious photos and funny photos. At one point Bill held Fleur on his shoulders so it looked like one tall person walking around.
"Ooh! Someone forgot their garter," said Bill.
Fleur bopped him on the head with her bouquet and he laughed.
Once the photos were over with, they made their way to the reception area with the wedded couple taking the lead. They were seated at one long table while everyone else sat at round tables that held about ten to twelve people each.
"Here Nia," said Alejandro. "Your camera."
"Thank you," she said, taking her seat next to Fleur.
So as to not split the couples up, the seating at the main table was more or less a free for all. As long as Bill and Fleur were in the middle, it was fine. The catering staff was bringing out appetizers and bread and Hermione wondered if they should have done the buffet instead.
"This is nice wedding china," said Viktor, examining the set in front of him. "What pattern is this?"
"I don't remember but it's by Bernardaud," said Hermione. "They had some beautiful tea sets."
"I'll have to look into that."
"You're such a grandma," Merelin hissed, poking her head out from Esperanza's breast pocket.
Harry snorted and Esperanza gave him a stern look for laughing at her fiancé.
As everyone was settled into their seats and champagne (or sparkling cider) was poured for toasts, Hermione handed her video camera to Cedric and rose to her feet, tapping her champagne flute with her spoon.
"Attention everyone," she said. "Attention. During the reception, I will be walking around with my video camera to get your well-wishes for the happy couple. To kick us off, I would like to make a toast. To Bill and Fleur: separately you are like sugar and flour, you could eat both separately, but together you have cake—"
"I'm sorry, you eat what?" Cecilia demanded.
"—and like cake through this union you are no longer separate beings. You become an experience. And I think you're the type of experience that will continue to get better through time. To Bill and Fleur!"
Everyone raised their glasses and repeated the sentiment. When Hermione sat down, Fleur threw her arms around her. Cecilia stood up for her toast.
"May the future hold your happiness, may the future hold your heath, may your heart hold your love, and may your arms hold your babies yet to come. Here's to your future happiness together!"
When Mrs. Weasley stood for her speech, dinner was being brought out so that they could eat when she was done.
"I know I haven't been the most supportive in the beginning," she said. "But I now realize that you are perfect for each other. Things may seem scary and uncertain now, but I think the two of you together can face anything. Bill, you've taken care of me these past few years, but this is something your father and I intended for you when you finally got married."
She brought out a document and brought it to the couple.
"A house?" said Bill, looking up at her.
"Shell Cottage," she said. "I hope it's a good starter home for you two."
"This is… wow… thank you, Mum!" He stood and hugged her tightly.
Hermione looked at the other Weasley siblings to see their expressions tighten with jealousy.
The dinner was served and the servers stepped off to the side so everyone could eat. Hermione took out her polaroid and turned it around to get all the bridespeople in the shot. Fleur slid off the bench she and Bill shared and crammed herself onto Hermione's lap to get in the shot.
"Smile!" she said and snapped her photo.
The photographer came around for something more professional, but Hermione wanted her own for her scrapbook. The meal was really good, though Bill and Fleur didn't seem to be able to eat much of it as family members kept coming up to speak to them.
It was fine until one of the old aunts said something that definitely hurt Fleur's feelings.
"Why are people just… so mean?" Hermione huffed.
"Speaking from personal experience," said Esperanza. "Insecurity and to make up for a lack of personality."
"Mm." Hermione looked at her watch. "Be right back."
She got up and found Mad-Eye standing guard and eating a plate of food.
"Mad-Eye, where's the band?" she asked.
"Couldn't say," he said.
"But it's 6:30. I said for them to be here an hour ago."
"I haven't seen anyone approach, girlie."
She worked her jaw and huffed. "I'll be right back."
She ran to town and saw no sign of the band heading their way. So, she hurried to her hotel room and got out her DJ kit. She never really dismantled it after prom. She snagged a table from the cellar and hurried back to the site.
"Any sign?" she panted.
"No," said Mad-Eye.
Hermione growled. "Let me know when they get here."
She hurried up to the stage and set up the table, transfiguring and charming it to match the décor. As she was setting up, Bill approached the stage.
"What's going on?" he asked.
"The band is a no show," she sighed. "Give me five minutes, I'll have your first dance as a married couple starting up."
So she wouldn't get to dance the night away and forget her worries. That was fine. It wasn't her night anyway, it was Bill and Fleur's and it was her job to keep it running smoothly.
"Tonks, you're dancing with Ceci," said Hermione. "Draco, I need you to film the first three dances before going around and collecting well-wishes. Please film it like I would. If it looks shoddy, I'll make your life hell."
"Too late."
"Oh, you're adorable to think this is hell," she said and hurried to draw the runes so the music could be well-heard.
"Can I help with anything?" Cedric asked.
She still needed to create the lineup.
"Please," she said. "I need the first dance."
She ran up to the stage and got her headphones around her neck. Cedric hurried behind with the guitar.
"Ladies and gentlemen," she announced. "The bride and groom will now share their first dance."
Cedric played his guitar. Thank goodness it was also the song they walked down the aisle to.
"It's a little bit funny," he sang. "This feeling inside. I'm not one of those who can easily hide."
Bill led Fleur to the middle of the dance floor.
Hermione worked fast to reorganize her tapes around with songs that wouldn't make the old people complain too much and cause her a headache. Though, they'd probably complain no matter what she played.
After the group song, she waved her wand to get the floor to light up in different colors. She set up James Brown's "Get Up Offa That Thing" to get everybody dancing. Thankfully, the younger crowd was focused on dancing while the older crowd wanted to schmooze. Hermione decided to keep the music with pop and disco genres. Mostly because it was easier to match the pace of the music and still keep it sounding good.
Márcia brought her something to drink.
"I hear many boys and some Swan Maidens are lamenting that you're not on the dance floor," she said.
"What's stopping them from coming up here to dance with me?" Hermione asked.
"Good point. Fleur said she's ready to do the bouquet toss."
"Thanks for letting me know. Any song requests?"
"No, I like what you're playing." Márcia smiled and went back down into the crowd.
Hermione queued up "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" and projected her voice.
"It's time for the bride to throw her bouquet," she said. "You know the rules. If you catch it, you're next to get married."
Some left the floor while others crowded around to the middle of the dance floor. Fleur got up on stage with her bouquet and turned around. She glanced back once, then threw it. It soared high in the air over waving arms before landing in Viktor's.
"I'm the next bride!" he announced gleefully while Esperanza scooped him off his feet. The man was drunk on love.
"And there is no garter," said Hermione. "So let's just toss the bride instead."
She put her headphones on the table and picked up Fleur, dropping her over the side of the stage into Bill's waiting arms. Fleur giggled and kissed him.
"Oh, and please do not return to the hotel by yourself," she said as she went back to her desk. "Please leave in groups of four or more. And if you're part of the clean up and think you're going to bounce early to avoid it, I will find you."
She struck up "Dancing in the Moonlight" and danced in place.
She could set her worries down and pick them up tomorrow.