Hello, darlings. Sorry this is later in Saturday, but it wasn't finished. It is barely edited. Forgive me. I'm on call, so I video called into my sister's annual Infant Death Support Group event. (SHARE, they are amazing. Lots of supportive events so parents can grieve their lost angels, and their families have ways to support them.) I hope you enjoy this chapter. Some things are heating up. (Mwahahaha)

Chapter 28 Shocking Surprises

The Burkens called to change the location of the play date at the last minute. "Sorry, but we had a last minute plumbing emergency. It's fixed, but the house is a wreck," explained Sarah.

"We understand. These things happen. The park will be fine. Thanks for not canceling," reassured Hermione.

The muggle couple seemed on edge the entire afternoon. They kept scanning the area nervously. The children arranged themselves in a square and sat rolling a large green ball at each other. It rolled out of reach when one of them gave it a hard push. Benedict fussed and the ball shot over to him. Hermione and Marcus exchanged worried looks and rushed over. Dalton beat them to the ball, "It has a string on it to pull it back. What will they thing of next."

"Yes," said Sarah quickly in a fake jovial tone," just brilliant."

Hermione and Marcus exchanged a different look. "There are not strings," said Hermione firmly. Both Burkens looked terrified. "But these things happen often, don't they?"

"How do you know?" whispered Sarah.

"Because this time Korrine didn't move the ball. Remus or Dominic did,"Marcus answered softly. The other couple looked shocked. "Why don't we go back to your house and we can discuss this."

"Why?" asked Dalton suspiciously.

"Because this isn't a conversation for public, and you can trust we aren't pranking you in your own house," Hermione told him.

"You know what's going on?" Sarah's concern shined in her eyes, along with a flare of hope.

"We do, and we will explain everything," promised Marcus.

The children resumed their game in the playroom, barely giving the adults a glance when they settled in the nearby living room. They could still see the children. "Based on your reaction this is the first time something this unexpected has occurred, "started Hermione, "correct?"

Dalton nodded, "Correct. At first we thought we'd forgotten to put some toy away."

"Then we started to blame one another," said Sarah. "Then today the bathtub cracked and the pipes broke."

"During this Korrine was screaming 'no bath, play."

Hermione nodded, "She didn't want to take a bath. This is going to sound insane, but stay with me. Magic is real. What Korrine has been doing, what Remus or Dominic did, is classified as accidental magic. They don't consciously control it, it just happens." Dalton began to bristle. "We know this because we can do magic, too. The prove it, show us the broken bathroom." Hesitantly the Burkens took the Flints to their downstairs washroom. Hermione drew her wand, "Reparo." The crack in the tub sealed. The pipes melt back together.

"How?" exclaimed Sarah.

"Magic," said Marcus. "We can go back to the parlor." The Burken stood and stared at the repairs in silence for a few more minutes before returning to where they had been sitting.

"What does all this mean?" demanded Dalton.

"Right now it means that strange things will happen, especially when Korrine experiences strong emotions. It settles down around four. In about nine to ten years it means a witch or wizard will visit and invite her to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardary," Hermione said.

Marcus nodded, "Both Hermione and I went there. It is an elite boarding school in Scotland."

"Elite, as in expensive?" asked Dalton. "You both found jobs easily? What about uni?"

Hermione took the lead, "The wizarding world doesn't have university. Beyond the basic and advanced forms training is on the job or apprenticeship. But, yes, Hogwarts prepares you for employment. Tuition is based on ability to pay. My parents paid more than local private schooling, but less than Roedean." They both nodded. Hermione sighed, "My family is non-magical, or muggles, I say this from experience. You will have to take an active interest in her magical life because you will not understand all of it, and she won't always have the experience to explain it. But we will be right here to help."

Sarah gave them a sheepish look, "We did a Google search on you. Other than your wedding, Hermione's extended family, and her parent's dentistry we didn't find anything."

"And you won't. Like Hermione said, we keep things separate. Keeps everyone from being taken advantage of. We have a law about it."

"Yes, the Statue of Secrecy. No telling anyone about magic. Not even your family. Only my parents know."

"What about your family, Marcus?"

"My whole family is magical. While I can answer questions about wizards, Hermione will be the one helping you build and maintain a bridge."

"Is it safe?" asked Dalton.

"As safe as anywhere. Just like there are good and bad people everywhere, there are good and bad wizards. But we are building a better world," Hermione said the last softly, looking at her hands.

"Politicians always make those promises. Nice to hear those things are the same."

"Not this one, and not on my watch," Hermione responded in a tight voice, her fist clenched.

Marcus placed one of his large hands on her smaller ones, "It's over. And they don't know." He gave the two muggles an apologetic smile. "We recently fought a rather brutal war. Hermione played a crucial role. She's personal friends with numerous influential people. They are making change for a safer, better world. Her reactions to corrupt elitism are legendary and entertaining."

"Wait," said Sarah, "you said you wrote books on other cultures."

"I do, on centaurs, mermaids, werewolves, goblins and such."

"Fairies?" she asked hopefully.

"No, they're rather mindless creatures. But do you remember the Elves and the Shoemaker?" They nodded. "There are house elves. They gain their magic by taking care of the house."

"Would you like to meet one?" asked Marcus. They nodded wordlessly. "Otto."

The house elf popped into the room. "How can Otto be helping master?" His ironed sage green pillowcase toga displayed the Flint crest.

"It seems the boys' new friend isn't a muggle. Her parents wanted to meet you."

"Splendid. Hello, missy, sir."

"Ottie!" cried Dominic happily.

"Hello, little master Dominic. Otto bes seeing you." The boy waved his arms excitedly.

"Did you have any questions for Otto?"

Dalton thought, "Do you like your job?"

"Taking care of wizards gives elves our magics. And master and mistress are most kinds. Though mistress keeps trying to do our jobs." He gave her a slight glare.

"Why are you wearing a pillowcase?"

Hermione sensed Otto's slight unease and jumped in, "Thank you, Otto. I'll answer this one." He nodded and departed. "Clothing is a touchy subject. Remember how the elves left when the shoemaker and his wife gave them clothing? They left. Some are mistreated and wish to be free. Many see clothing as the ultimate punishment. When the book is finished. I'll send you a copy. Actually, I'll get your one of each."

"About magical beings?" asked Sarah looking excited.

"Yes, there are children's books, too." They returned their attention to the children and their games.

Later at home Hermione asked the question that had been on her mind for the last few hours. "Do you think one of Dalton's ancestor was a Burke?"

"Does seem likely, doesn't it?" said Marcus. "Going to research it?"

"Not now, maybe in a few years I'll offer," she replied. He nodded.

The issue of Korrine Burken's magical ancestor dropped into the background. Friday morning before heading to Canterville Castle, Hermione and Marcus learned the gender of their twins. They flooed to the castle to the boys that afternoon. Henry checked them in, "The wedding parties are gathering on the back veranda at four for cocktails before the rehearsals."

"Thank you, Henry."

"You're welcome. Enjoy your stay. And Lise said to let you know there is a third wedding, a Tiffany Fitz something," he trailed off in thought.

"Tiffany Fitzgerald?"

Henry snapped his fingers, "That's it." He grinned. "Tiffany Fitzgerald and Bartholomew Templeton."

"Ugh, tell her thanks for the heads up." She collected a triplet and grabbed a wheeled suitcase. Once in the hidden lift she answered Marcus's unspoken question. "Fitzgerald was one of my grammar school bullies. Think Parkinson, but pretty. Bartie-Boy was her Draco, only with less brain power than Goyle."

He frowned, "I thought you liked Greg?"

"I adore Greg. But I can like someone and acknowledge they are not the sharpest knife in the drawer."

"Short story is we don't like them," declared Marcus.

"Correct." She looked at her watch, "Let's go get settled in the

room. Henry said to put a gentle muggle repelling ward on the Do Not Disturb sign, then the elves can pop over."

"No luck recruiting on site babysitters?"

"Not yet," Hermione made her way down the corridor. Faux torches flickered in the iron sconces along the walls. A thick red woven rug lined the stone floor. Each heavy dark wooden door bore a name plaque along with a room number. "Shamrocks," she read, " how droll." Marcus raised an eyebrow. "Three leaves for three babies." The large stone room held a king sized bed along the far wall. Closer to the door Hermione transfigured the sofa and wing chair into three cribs, just to the left of the door to the modern washroom. "Would you call the elves while I unpack?" Otto, Bee, and Dax swept in and efficiently settled in their charges. Dax briefly fussed over Hermione before shoving them out the room. Laughing at the behavior, arm in arm they made their way to the cocktail hour.

Ron fumed, he seethed, he internally growled. Leaving for the rehearsals paused the biggest fight Ron had ever had and he included the ones with Harry and Hermione where he was 1000% at fault during their school days. He wasn't sure why it was a fight, he hadn't destroyed his wife's life and lied to her, but she sure as hell lied to him.

The week before he stopped at Gringotts to make a surprise withdrawal. He wanted to book Veronica a spa treatment after the wedding. They'd been sniping at each other frequently in the last weeks. He wanted to present her with a peace offering. Instead he'd returned home angrier than he thought he could ever be. In less than two years Veronica blew through six thousand galleons. They were nearly flat broke. Merlin only knew how long they had been living paycheck to paycheck. She deflected his questions with excuses and twisted accusations. He could hardly stand to look at her right now. Only his love for his older brother and best friend kept him from canceling or leaving her at home. "You're coming. We will act normally. Do not cause a scene. You are not the victim. You squandered my live savings. You are going to pretend to be the perfect wife and mother, or so help me, I will hex you myself." That had been the last thing he'd said to her in two days. Even now, he stood across the room nursing a pint with Charlie, while she sat with Ginny, Hugo coloring in a book next to her. He flinched when the Flints entered. He'd had perfection and took it for granted. He's been so stupid. Charlie gave him a sympathetic look but remained silent.

Malin hurried over to Hermione, "Come meet my family," she dragged her over to several dark haired people. They looked around nervously. "Mama, Papa, Hermione's here." The curly haired witch gave a small wave. The exuberant bride made introductions. "Here, try Papa's mead. He claims it will take you to the moon."

"Oh, I couldn't," she demurred.

"Yes, you can. As the bride I demand." She held out the glass. The sweet cloying scent curdled Hermione's stomach.

"No, really, I can't," she rubbed her stomach trying not to make a face.

Malin's eyes grew wide, "You really are pregnant!"

"No, well, I mean, yes. This weekend is about you," Hermione said quickly.

"Are you keeping quiet again?"

"No."

"So everyone can know?" Malin clarified.

"Yes."

"Good," Malin turned and yelled, "Harry, Hermione is pregnant again!"

"I know," he yelled back, "I told you. You thought I was joking. She's having twins."

Malin hugged her friend tightly. Hermione wrapped her arms around her and whispered, "Girls this time." The surge of congratulations swallowed Malin's cheer. Eventually, Hermione managed to get control of the situation, "Okay, people, wonderful news. Thank you all. Now, this weekend is about Harry, Malin, Percy, and Audrey. Let's focus on them." She took a glass of sparkling juice from Marcus. "A toast, to the happy couples!" Everyone echoed her and drank to their health.

Kingsley Shacklebolt cleared his throat for attention, "Thank you, Hermione, for getting the evening started. Since both weddings have numerous people in common, it seemed logical to do all of this together. So, I'm turning this over to wedding planner, Lise."

"Thank you, Minister Shacklebolt. Tomorrow is going to be a long day for some of us, but we are prepared. Percy, Audrey, and the wedding party have their wake up calls. The ceremony will begin at 6:45. After the wedding party and family will take pictures. Lunch will be served at noon. That will followed by a short gathering for Percy and Audrey. We will have recreational activities for guests throughout the day, along with several hospitality rooms for all three weddings. Malin, Harry and their wedding party know what time to start getting ready. They will take pictures in the afternoon. The wedding starts at 6:45, as well. After dinner will be served to guests of both weddings along with cake and the dancing reception. Any questions?"

"How will guests know where the weddings are?" asked Audrey's mother.

"When they arrive, even guests not staying with us for the night will be given an itinerary that includes with color streamers and balloons to follow. The other wedding is in the chapel and in the afternoon, they won't be mistaking one of yours."

"Any hope of breakfast somewhere in there?" asked a plaintive Charlie.

"Breakfast pasties will be available to guests during the photo session and will be provided to wedding party members as well."

"Pastries?" exclaimed George.

"Yes, pastries," Hermione replied. "You will not die without a full English, and if you do I will be eloquent and apologetic in the eulogy." Most of the crowd twittered.

"If we could now have the wedding parties we will go to the sites and run through the entrances and such," Lise smiled and

directed Henry to take Harry and Malin's party to the fountain.

Fred clapped Ron on the back, "George, the girls, and I will take Hugo and Dominique with us. Have some time with the nibblings."

"That's nice of you to offer, but I'm sure Veronica wants to take him back to the room," Ron responded in a tight voice.

"Are you sure? We were looking forward to it," the sad tilt to Fred's voice broke Ron's anger. He shouldn't be punishing Hugo for Veronica's sins.

"No, you're right. If she doesn't mind, totally get him."

Fred clapped him in the shoulder, "Thanks, mate." He moved through the crowd towards Veronica and Hugo. His sister-in-law happily relinquished his nephew into his care. She had no intention of joining her husband at the rehearsals, she knew better.

She needed time to figure out how she could turn Ron's anger. She had no idea he could get this furious. He had gone to Gringott's and lost his mind. Nothing diverted his single minded demands to know how she had spent so much money. Bringing up the renovations didn't do it. Crying only escalated his rage. He'd been rather short tempered and impatient lately. She's started to stretch the food budget by adding in her own cooking to meals to make several meals out of each take out order. He'd started commenting about it. The stress of new suits for both Ron and Hugo and a dress for her wiped out their savings. She sold everything she could in hopes of off setting the vault. Not that is mattered, last time Ron saw it heaps of gold covered the floor. She spent his money seeking attention and now he knew it. She let her feet wander the castle. She ended up at the small bar near the front desk. A classically handsome muggle sat sipping a drink looking bored. He raise and eyebrow when she entered and leered as he gave her the once over. She raised her own eyebrow in response and held his gaze. His gleam of interest told her he liked what he saw.

She crossed to the bar and ordered a simple drink, charging it to the room. The muggle moved the stool next to her. "Here for one of the weddings?" he asked. His voice wasn't as smooth as he thought it was, but it was better than others she had to listen to.

"I am."

"And who left such a beautiful woman to her own devices this evening?"

"My husband is one of the best men."

"Still, so cruel leave you to your own devices. If you were mine I would never leave your side."

She laughed and took a dainty sip of her drink, "Please, I'm a married woman with a child. You have no interest making me yours."

He waved away her weak protest, "Please, shared custody children are easy, keep them around when you want his good behavior and ship them back when you want alone time."

"Would we want alone time often?" she purred.

"Indeed we would, my dear." He moved into her personal space, the scent of alcohol caressing her cheek. He leaned into kiss her, but she moved back.

"None of that yet. We haven't even established you're worth throwing my husband over for."

"I have an obscene trust fund and a cushy job at my family firm. They pay me a large salary to not run the family name through the mud."

"And an affair with a married woman wouldn't do the last one?" she asked in a seductive tone.

"Only if someone found out," he chuckled and downed the last of his drink. "What do you say?"

"I think I have to decline. I see no point in sabotaging my life as it is for drunken mediocre sex and the good chance you will remember none of your promises tomorrow."

"Madam, I assure you that the sex will blow your mind and be of the highest caliber,"

"I noticed you didn't refute the forgetting part in the morning."

"I cannot deny that is a possibility. My brother is marrying the best woman I've ever met. Granted I didn't meet her until they were engaged, and stealing your brother's girlfriend is so passe."

"Quite frowned upon," she agreed, ignoring the pang of guilt she often felt when reminded she was a home wrecker. "Tell you what, if in the morning, you still think chasing me is worth the possible scandal, find me between the two weddings I'm here for and we can talk more. I promise nothing."

"My name is Thaddeus, can I have yours, enchanting angel?"

"Veronica," she added the a healthy 'keep your mouth shut' tip to her tab and left. Engrossed in her thoughts she missed Parvarti Finnegan and Lavender Ross standing in the shadows next to the door. They looked at one another in amazement.

"What do we do?" whispered Lavender.

"What can we do?" replied Parvarti. "I don't want to interrupt the weddings."

"Me neither. I guess we keep quiet for now."

"Is it wrong my first instinct was to snap photos?" asked Parvarti.

"You didn't?" exclaimed Lavender.

"I did. Should I destroy them?"

"Parv, we came early to review the spa and for you to get some content. This is content. That it is going to hurt our friend does not make it less of a scoop. And after everything that whore did to Hermione she has it coming."

"If I run with it, I am going to warn Ron. Something I should have done for Hermione."

"That's far. Now, I want a drink, let's get a drink." The two entered the bar, ignoring Thaddeus as he pouted over another drink.

A/N: Oh my gods! What should Parvarti do? 'Maniacal laughter' No, really, what should she do?