Happy Saturday, my freaky darlings. No work for me. And after this last week, damn. Thank you to everyone for their concern, I am fine, the car is fine. I have no idea what 's problem posting was, but it finally stopped. I hope you enjoy the run-up to the wedding.

Chapter 22

The closer the wedding drew the more Ginny struggled to make decisions. She pondered playing the field more, Jeffery performed adequately in the bedroom. But he remained obsessed with Veronica. And despite being married, the witch did little to actually discourage it. If Ginny wasn't careful she would be stuck with him and she would always wonder if they had given into their baser instincts. But breaking things off with him now could mean attending Hermione's wedding alone, while her ex would be escorting his new paramour. She'd read up on charisma potions. They were not illegal, being weaker than love potions, and not as targeted. She could attract others, too. But if she could get Harry back, wasn't it worth the risk?

She ended up in the apothecary standing in front of the potions. "Did you have any questions, miss?" asked the portly shop owner.

The dimly lit shop with cramped shelves gave the illusion of anonymity. It gave Ginny the courage to answer. "I remember hearing about these in school. I never understood the benefit if they aren't keyed to a person."

"They can be, just a little of the potion and magical essence, something as minor as tapping their wand or place they cast a spell."

"So, they're easy to use?" asked Ginny.

"But not so easy to make," he joked.

"So you can key them to a certain person, or just get people to like you?"

"Or get people to like you more than someone else."

For a moment Ginny considered it, not only making Harry love her again, but making everyone like her more than Malin. She grinned imagining the other woman out in the cold, brokenhearted, then stopped. "What happens when you stop using the potion?"

"Well, not much, but the other people stop thinking you're the best ever."

"Got anything even less risky?" she asked.

He shrugged, "Amortenia perfume."

"Oh, yes, one bottle, please. That sounds perfect." A weight she didn't know was there lifted off her shoulders. Knowing Lord Voldemort's personal history she felt leery of love potions. Having been mentally manipulated and controlled she hated the idea of doing it to another. Also, once you started you had to keep doing it. That sounded time consuming and exhausting. She pocketed her purchase. She'd buy a stunning outfit and attend with Jeffery, then begin playing the field if she failed to reclaim Harry. She was young, fit, and a quidditch player. She could settle down later. She'd go collect Veronica, she mentioned needing to go shopping, too.

The witch in question readily agreed. Since she hadn't found herself pregnant, she'd stun everyone with her looks. Ginny suggested a muggle boutique Fleur recommended. She found a magnificent dress in the first fifteen minutes. The bodice wrapped around the shoulder and down the back. The skirt flared out in pleats. Ginny gently objected that the blush pink hue of the dress wasn't too far from white. "Nonsense. In natural light, the dress will darken. It'll be fine," Veronica smoothed the front of the dress over her stomach. "And if I'm wrong a few flicks of the wand and Bob's your uncle."

"I suppose," Ginny said slowly, not quite agreeing. "

"I'll get some pearls. They'll offset the pink better."

"I'm sure that will help." Veronica ignored the slight sarcasm in Ginny's tone. She continued preening in the mirror. She'd seen the little bottle Ginny tried to hide. She planned to nick some on her way home tonight. Soon the world would be as it should. Still with a month and change to go, she hoped to be announcing her pregnancy at Hermione's wedding, making it even better. Ginny broke through her musings, "Maybe you should plan on darkening the dress. Merlin knows what Fred and George would do in revenge."

"For what? Upstaging that dowdy, boring know-it-all? Please. Not my fault it isn't hard."

"That is Rita Skeeter speaking. Hermione is quite the looker and just because she gets busy and doesn't pull out all the stops doesn't change that. Why do you hate her so much?"

"I don't!" protested Veronica.

"You do. Anytime something about her is mentioned you pull a face, or make a comment."

"When Ron left her she should have gone away. Not hung around like a bad smell," Veronica snapped. "Who does that?"

"Hermione was family before she and Ron got together. I know you don't understand, but she walked through hell and back with us for almost a decade." Ginny faltered for a second but then decided to barrel through. Veronica needed to hear this again, from someone she considered in her camp. "And she didn't do anything wrong. She got devastating news and Ron didn't react well. Honestly, I'm amazed you haven't had issues. He tends to react first and think second."

"Maybe he truly loves me," sniffed Veronica.

"Maybe, but that doesn't explain your attitude about Hermione."

'Because she proved to be the harder target. I should have seduced Harry away instead. You would have slunk off,' she thought. Out loud she said, "I don't know. Sometimes you just don't like people. I daresay she's not likely overly fond of me."

"No, but despite everything you've done to her she's always been civil, if not kind. You need to be that now." Noticing the stubborn set of her features Ginny backed off. "Look, plaster a smile on your face for the weekend and deal. Because numerous guests are not going to react well if you put a toe out of place. And I say that from a place of love."

Veronica briefly flashed on the month of pranks and nodded, "I get it, best behavior and all that." Ginny couldn't help but think her warning fell on deaf ears, but she dropped it. Veronica would heed her warning or not.

Monica Granger stopped sulking and joined her daughter to finalize everything two weeks before the wedding. She attempted to insert her preferences everywhere. Hermione pushed back, reminding her it was too late to drastically change anything. The orders were in and preparations were underway. The little comments continued until Niobe exploded, "Gods above and below, woman! Your daughter is a saint for dealing with you. If you wanted to express your opinions you should have been here in June, or July at the latest. Like you promised to be. And now you act like every decision made without you is a personal affront. Stop it. You are the transgressor, not the victim."

"Like you can't use magic to make changes," snapped Monica.

"And how would be explain that to people who don't know magic is real?" demanded Hermione. "I'm sorry you underestimated my resolve on the matter, but you gave me no idea when you would return. And you embarrassed yourself by not staying in contact. Niobe is right, you did this to yourself. Let's continue."

Lise cleared her throat, "So, we have the reception dinner Friday for friends and family, and anyone who might arrive early. Saturday we'll serve a full English buffet for guests and the groom's party in the small dining room. And bring you the same in the bridal suite. Mid-morning we have spa treatments scheduled. The guests begin arriving at noon. Everyone will be in place by one forty-five. The ceremony starts at two. After the church part, you'll move to the side chapel to sign the certificate. In your case, that means creating the bond. Meanwhile, the guests will move back to the castle for cocktails. Then photographs, dinner, and dancing. Sunday morning we'll have the full English buffet in the larger dining room."

"Sounds perfect, Lise, thank you," gushed Hermione.

"You are most welcome. Everyone is excited to pull this off. I will call you if anything comes up," promised the wedding planner. She hugged Hermione, using the embrace to slip her a note. 'The password to change things is Hogsemeade. In case your mum tried anything behind our backs.' Hermione nodded her agreement. She planned to enjoy the next two weeks with her children. She and Marcus would be taking a two week honeymoon after the New Year.

Later she told Malin she planned to sleep in and enjoy her husband. "Sightseeing is overrated during a honeymoon. Too much pressure: What did you see, what did you do, did you have loads of naughty sex?"

Malin laughed, "He still won't tell you where you're going?"

"Only that I won't need clothes because we're not leaving the bed," chuckled Hermione. "My Granddad and Gran bullied Dominic into letting them keep the boys while we're gone. My parents and other grandparents will be there, too."

"How did that happen?" inquired Malin.

"I missed it, but after he said he knew where I learned my debate and skills and that he surrendered."

"Anything I should do while you're away?"

"No, the centaur books are ready to go. They should be released in January. We'll finish up the merfolk when I get back. So, enjoy your Christmas break."

"Have you finished Christmas shopping?" asked Malin changing the subject slightly.

"Yes, and I managed to keep everyone from going overboard, I hope anyway." Hermione shook her head, "I do not want to become like some people."

Friday, December 20th, the bride, groom, and their babies took the train to Kent. Holiday travelers admired the little family. Older adults smiled over the babies in their matching, but not identical hats and blankets. "Excited?" asked Hermione.

"Yes, and no. We share a home and created life together. Nothing changes."

"My name will be Hermione Flint," she responded, "that's a change."

"Sure," he tried not to move too much and disturb Benedict, asleep on his chest. Remus and Dominic sat, assisted by their boppy pillows, in the wagon. They clapped and babbled at each other. "And that's why yes, it is something to be excited about."

"Well, I'm excited. Are Mummy's boys excited?" she asked in a bright voice. Both awake babies waved their arms about. "Good."

At the station they encountered Hermione's cousin, Everett, and his wife, Colleen, also disembarking. "Everett, Colleen! Hello."

"Hermione, hello yourself. Mum bullied us into arriving tonight, and kept on about trains and holiday crowds." The adults laughed and introductions were made all around.

Hermione and Marcus began heading for the van Henry left for them. "Would you like to join us?" she asked her cousin. "There are two extra seats."

Everett looked at his wife, who considered their options. "Yes, let's. Taxis are precious and expensive out here. Thank you." Colleen collected their suitcase so her husband could assist with baby carriers.

Colleen and Everett offered to climb into the backseat. "Easier to wrestle the sprogs that way." They fastened Dominic between them. On the road, he noticed Marcus watching his fiance closely, fascinated by her driving. "Don't drive then, Marcus?"

"Uh, no. Never had the chance to learn. And since Hermione knows I don't see a reason to bother now."

Hermione laughed, "He mixed up the gas with the brake and panicked. I keep trying to assure him how common that is, but he refuses to listen."

Colleen giggled, "I did that, drove my brother's car right into the neighbor's pool. I don't know who was angrier. My parents or the neighbors?" The muggle-raised adults laughed, amusing the little ones. A comfortable conversation followed as the three drivers described early mishaps.

The castle rose up from the surrounding trees. Everett and Colleen expressed awe at the sight.

"Lise and Henry poured themselves into renovations," Hermione told them.

"And it paid off," whistled Everett. Hermione navigated the van to the front door. Attendants and bellhops rushed over and began unloading the van. Colleen clapped her hands and held out her arms. "I get to carry a baby. I get to carry a baby."

Marcus chuckled at her antics, "Does the lady have a preference?"

"Hmm, green baby. I rode next to red baby."

"Here is Remus. Red baby is Dominic."

"Meaning blue baby is Benedict," chimed in Everett. "See, I pay attention."

Hermione rolled her eyes, "We're going to give them color-coded issues."

"Possibly," shrugged Marcus. "They're starting to get more diverse personalities."

"I know."

"What are you doing with the boys all weekend?" asked Colleen.

Hermione turned, opening her mouth to answer, only to be cut off by a happy shriek, "Our babies!"

"Moriah, Nicole, and Mallory offered their services. And by offered, I mean demanded," Hermione said wryly. "I'm sure they'll have plenty of help." A bubbly blonde teenager swooped over to collect the wagon and her charges.

"Hi, Hermione. Mum said to tell you that they're spending the night with Grandmother tonight and your parents tomorrow night," Mallory said.

"That was the plan they told me. Thanks for this."

"Not a problem. We're excited to monopolize them while we can."

Marcus held up a color-coded list, "Preferences and schedule for feedings. Plus where they need to be when and what they should be wearing."

Nicole exclaimed, "Oh my gods! That is so Hermione. Love it!" She collected the suitcases and lists. "Okay, darlings, tell Mummy and Daddy bye for now. Moriah has a pile of stuffies in our room with your names on it." The teens waited for Hermione to kiss each boy on the forehead before hurrying off.

Everett picked up his bag, "I suppose we should get checked in then."

His wife took his hand. "Logically sound."

Marcus offered his arm, "Shall we?"

Hermione tucked her hand in his elbow, "Onward, my love."

Lise met them at the front desk. "Tonight Hermione, Harry, and Malin are in the bridal suite. Marcus and Adrian are together in the Lord's suite. Tomorrow the newlyweds will be in the honeymoon suite, Adrian in the Lord's, and Harry and Malin in the bridal. Is that still correct?" Marcus confirmed that. Lise quickly got the couple settled and on their way to their rehearsal.

Veronica hummed happily. With her special perfume on, Ron remained attentive and adoring. Best of all her period was nearly two weeks late. Pregnant again at last. She couldn't wait to tell people. She'd have to share the attention with Fleur for a bit, but soon everyone would be doting on her again. Ginny had been distant as of late, and Jeffery hinted he grew tired of the simple scraps of attention she spared him. He claimed she wasn't in love with Ron. He wasn't wrong, but his saying it annoyed her greatly. While Ron wasn't as wealthy as she'd thought, he was famous and by extension made her famous. She'd explained this before. She had no idea why it was such a problem now. Issues for another day. Today was for her victories, looking hotter than the special girl and another baby for the man she won from her.

She took her place at a table near the other Weasleys while waiting for the wedding party to finish going over the events for tomorrow. Veronica smirked drawing attention to herself, "What's got you so smug?" asked Angelina.

"Fleur isn't the only one expanding the family," she answered primly. She smoothed her dress over her stomach.

Malin's eyes narrowed, "I swear on all magic if you tell another living soul before Sunday afternoon I will curse you with magic so ancient only my ancestors remember it. One word, one hint, anything to distract from this wedding and I will destroy you utterly." Even Luna leaned back briefly. "Do not try me. You ruined Hermione's happiness once, you will not do it again without swift and horrific retribution."

"Damn, girl," whistled Fred's date, a young woman named Lorelei. "That was some threat."

Luna cocked her head to the side, examining Veronica critically, "Are you sure you're pregnant? Your aura seems wrong for it."

"I know my own body, thank you very much," she snapped angrily. The Charisma potion should be making them agree with her. Something was wrong.

Hermione watched Ginny flit around Harry most of the evening. He remained polite but gave her the barest of his attention. At some point, she made a decision and retreated to a table with Ron, Veronica, and Jeffery. She noticed Malin watching Veronica closely but decided she didn't want to know. She turned her attention back to her parents and the conversation about their recent trip to Kenya. A few spoke of their wishes to visit Africa. She nodded, "I want to visit the Mountains of the Moon in Uganda."

"Oh, that sounds interesting," one of her aunts agreed. The conversation shifted to mountain climbing excursions. As the evening wore down, Hermione checked on the triplets before heading to the bridal suite with Harry and Malin. Marcus asserted sleeping apart the night before was silly and tried to follow. Adrian stopped him. "Nope, we get one last bachelor's only poker night before you deprive us of the tradition." He caught Hermione's questioning look. "Because if Marc isn't a bachelor, it's just poker night."

"Without any other changes," deadpanned Marcus.

"The name changes," pointed out Cassius.

"Oh, how will it survive such drastic changes," Peregrine rolled his eyes.

"Oi, we need to go, time is wasting," complained Adrian.

Hermione kissed Marcus good night, "Don't get too drunk, please. Hangover potion can only do so much."

"Understood."

In the bridal suite, Harry grinned at Hermione, "Want to drink and play poker?"

"Gods, no. What would I do with all your clothes?" sassed Hermione. "I want to know what Ginny was after."

"I'm not entirely sure, to be honest. She mostly made small talk. Once I complimented her on her perfume she gave me a sad smile and left."

"Hmmm, odd." She looked over at Malin, "What did Veronica do to you?"

"Do?" Nothing. Try to do? Find a way to make events about her. She claims to be pregnant again. I threatened to curse her if she mentioned it to anyone until the wedding was over."

"You didn't have to do that, Malin. I don't have to be the center of attention."

"I know. But I don't care. She stole your happiness before without punishment. She will not do it again. Ever."

Harry looked thoughtful, "You said she claimed to be pregnant?"

Malin shrugged, "Luna said her aura did not match. And she is incredibly perceptive of these things."

"She is," Hermione acknowledged.

"Veronica seemed surprised and annoyed when everyone agreed with me that she should keep quiet. She looked confused almost."

"Who knows with that woman anymore? But we need our beauty sleep. Some of us need to look like perfection tomorrow." Hermione moved towards the twin-sized bed. "You two can have the bigger bed, but no shenanigans until tomorrow night when I'm not here."

"Oh sure, take all the fun out of this," grumbled Harry. She threw a pillow at him. "Why thank you, Hermione. I did want a second pillow." He laughed and caught the small green vase she threw next. "I see the bride needs her sleep, she's getting testy."

"Shut it before I show you testy."

He looked at Malin, "How do you work for her?"

"I don't annoy her to the point of violence," she smiled sweetly. Malin slipped under the covers.

"That's why she's my favorite. Good night," called Hermione.

"Good night, Mione. And I'm your favorite," Harry said settling under the covers himself.

"Sleep well, Hermione," added Malin. "Best day tomorrow."