Chapter 14 – Epilogue

The moment Narcissa crashed her lips into his, a bright light filled his vision as nineteen years of memories flashed through his mind. The memories of the life he would have had, had he grown up in this timeline. He could feel Narcissa's gasp against his lips and guessed she was experiencing the same thing. He instinctively held her tighter as the memories mingled with those of his own past until he would be hard pressed to tell you which memories were real. It intrigued him that he still had both. 'Perhaps the old ones will fade over time.'

They both pulled away from each other with tears in their eyes. "I have loved you since I was 9 years old, when I saw you on the platform for the first time. You didn't see me, but I couldn't stop staring at you," Narcissa whispered in awe. Harry shook his head.

"No, you're wrong, I saw you. I could never not notice you Narcissa," Harry returned affectionately. Narcissa smiled at the faint memory of the time he had said the same thing in their past life, while Harry smiled at his own memory of the first moment he knew he loved her. He had been 13 as he watched her bravely walk up to the stool and put the sorting hat on her head. The sorting hat seemed to take ages to decide, and nobody could miss the murmurs that spread across the hall. Was another Black about to be sorted in a house other than Slytherin? Several moments later a loud "Slytherin" was bellowed across the hall and he watched as the beautiful young blonde girl smiled and walked over to join her 's heart sank slightly knowing it would make it harder to get close to the girl.

During their joint years at Hogwarts they were fierce rivals on the quidditch pitch and to most of the school they seemed to hate each other, but they both knew the opposite was true.

They mostly avoided each other outside of class and Quidditch until Harry's NEWT year when Harry was asked to tutor the young blonde girl in Arithmancy after she missed several months of school due to illness. It only took moments for a friendship to blossom between the pair and by Christmas they were secretly dating. When Harry finished school he was quickly offered a job as an Auror. His father being a war hero didn't hurt. He wrote to Narcissa often during her last two years of school and the day she took her final exams he seeked an audience with her father.

Harry was so lost in his thoughts that he didn't realize how eerily quiet it had become, but as the memory faded it was hard to miss. He turned to see a room full of wedding guests staring at them with mouths hanging open and shocked expressions. 'What happened?'

A throat clearing brought his attention back to the aged witch that had done the bonding ceremony. She was shaking the surprise from her expression as she addressed them.

"A true love match, what a pleasant surprise." Harry and Narcissa both smiled at each other. "It has been many, many years since I have seen a bond that pure. May you have a lifetime of happiness together."

The aged witch gave them a small smile and quick nod before raising her voice to address the room. "May I present to you all, Lord and Lady Potter. Magic has declared it, so mote it be."

The guests seemed to be released from their stupor as they slowly began to clap. Sirius let out an uproarious laugh and then slapped him on the back in congratulations. Harry went to kiss Narcissa's ring hand and let out a laugh of his own when he saw that it was the same ring, the one he had given her the first time around. He tucked her arm in his and led her down the aisle. When they were out of sight, he practically pulled her to a secluded spot so they could have a few minutes alone.

"Narcissa, I am so sorry," Harry pleaded before she had time to yell at him.

"Oh, you will be. What in Salazar's name is wrong with you? How many times have I told you that messing with time is dangerous?"

"I know love, I truly am sorry. It was the last thing I expected to happen," said Harry as he pulled her into his arms, resting his chin on the top of her head rubbing soothing circles on her back. Narcissa let out a content sigh as she relaxed into his embrace. Harry smiled. He would be forgiven.

"What if I had not come with you?" She whispered. Harry hugged her closer.

"I wouldn't have stopped until I found a way back." Narcissa pulled away and wiped her eyes before she let out a frustrated huff.

"After all this time, you still jump in without thinking," she said with a scowl.

"Well if it helps, it looks like you get a second lifetime to break me of the habit." Narcissa chuckled.

"I was clearly unsuccessful the first time, so I'm not very optimistic."

"I love you," said Harry fondly, his smile tender. Narcissa sighed and smiled back at him. She couldn't stay mad at him. Not when he looked at her like that.

"I know you were being stupid, but why am I here?" Harry rolled his eyes and handed her the note from Fate. Narcissa read it with a frown and then looked at him in disbelief.

"I'm guessing we can't go back?" Narcissa asked.

"I don't think so. Do you want to go back?" Harry couldn't help but hold his breathe while he waited for her answer. He would do everything in his power to bring them back if that was what she wanted, but personally, he was excited about staying. He could get to know Sirius, enjoy a life without Voldemort, one where he never lived past infanthood. 'Pneumonia.' Harry couldn't help but chuckle at his luck as he watched his beautiful wife consider her answer.

"No," Narcissa softly whispered moments later. "No, I do not. We are young again, my family is – whole- and I – well – we may be able to have children of our own." Harry smiled and kissed her fiercely.

"I know what that would mean to you Cissy. I am happy to do my part." Narcissa rolled her eyes at his antics but couldn't control her own reaction to his words. Harry noticed, he knew her too well by now not too and he laughed as he picked her up and plunged his tongue into her mouth.

They were interrupted several moments later by Druella. The sound of her annoyed cough pulled them apart.

"This is hardly the place for such behaviour. The guests are waiting for you."

"My apologies Mrs. Black. I got carried away," said Harry with a bow.

"Shall we, my lady?" Harry asked as he put his arm out for his blushing bride.

"Of course, my lord."

While this time around the wedding and reception were much more elaborate than his first wedding to Narcissa had been Harry was surprised to find that he had enjoyed it almost just as much. Sirius was just how he had always imagined he had been in his youth, and he was surprised to find Bellatrix to be an intelligent, witty young woman though he wasn't surprised by her fierce temper. Even Druella couldn't put a damper on his spirits. Although he was quick to realise that he didn't really care for her, he knew that his fortune and status would keep her in place. She wouldn't be a problem. From his conversations with Narcissa over the years he knew that their relationship had always been tense at best so he was hopeful they could keep their visits with her to a minimum.

As they walked around the grand ballroom at Potter Manor greeting their guests Harry thought about his life in this universe. He noticed the memories of his old timeline were slowly fading as these ones became more vivid. Harry was the sole member of the House of Potter. That was about the only thing that seemed to be the same between the two timelines. Harry was saddened by this. He had hoped it might be an opportunity to get to know his family, but that wasn't to be. His father, Charlus Potter, had been a war hero. He had singlehandedly defeated Grindewald, saving Albus Dumbledore's life in the process. Near the end of the war, he had been severely injured and a courageous young boy had hidden him from his enemies while he healed and aided him in his recovery. The young boy was sadly killed for his efforts, but Charlus never forgot him or forgave himself for not being able to save him. When the war ended and the newly titled Lord returned home, he immediately asked the love of his life to marry him, his Dorea. A year later she gave him a son. They had already decided on a name 'James' after his own father, but as he looked upon the babe for the first time, he knew another name was more fitting. He asked to name him Harry after the young boy that helped him, Dorea readily agreed. Harry grew up with loving, doting parents and had a wonderful carefree childhood. Unfortunately, his mother died during his second year at Hogwarts after contracting Dragon Pox. His father followed a couple years later, not able to live without his 'Dorea'. Sirius had been by his side through the loss of both of his parents and their friendship was one that Harry would be forever grateful for.

"Congratulations Lord Potter," said a deep familiar voice from behind him. Harry turned to see his ex- partner smiling at him with a mischievous twinkle in his eyes.. He was no longer the aged, retired Minister he just had lunch with a week ago. Instead stood a tall, confident young man in his late 20's with a head auror badge pinned to his dress robes. Shacklebolt had taught him everything he knew. He was his mentor and, Harry was relieved to know, friend. Harry was glad to have him as a friend in this time line as well. They talked for awhile until Kingsley went to get another drink. Before Harry could follow him, another familiar voice spoke from behind him.

"Who's your friend Harry?" Said Bellatrix as she eyed a departing Kingsley like candy. Harry raised his eyebrows in surprise for a moment before his wife's gentle cough made him speak.

"Kingsley, my old partner before I left the auror corps." Harry wasn't sure why he was surprise. After all, Bellatrix looked a lot like the Andromeda he had fallen in love with in his original time line and she wasn't crazy in this one with more than enough Stamina to keep up with a young Kingsley he was sure.

"He's very…. Exotic." Harry chuckled.

"That's one way of putting it," Harry provided.

"I should go introduce myself," said Bella as she practically pushed Harry out of the way to get past.

Harry watched her for awhile, again surprised by the vision of a flirting Bellatrix.

"I have to admit that is not something I thought I would ever witness," Harry said to his wife as he leaned in and kissed her. Narcissa looked at him disapprovingly but willingly accepted the kiss.

"I think you should take me to bed now Lord Potter, I am very tired." The tone in her voice told Harry exactly how tired she really was and he couldn't help but blush. Narcissa smiled knowingly as she entwined their fingers.

The happily married couple said their goodbyes and then made their way upstairs, instructing the team of house elves to see all the guests out. When the pair were finally alone behind closed doors their bodies crashed together in a familiar embrace, their lips quickly followed.

They enjoyed a blissful week in solitaire before they were expected to receive guests and Harry had to go back to work. A honeymoon had been scheduled for the summer. Harry was now the defense against the dark arts teacher at Hogwarts so it was the best time to go away. Narcissa was finishing her final year studying to be a mediwitch and would be starting her first shifts at St. Mungo's in the new year.

Within a month Narcissa was pregnant and nine months later she gave birth to a blue eyed, messy haired boy they named James. Lucius surprisingly was one of the first non-familial guests to come congratulate them. Lucius, much to Harry's disappointment, was a very successful lawyer in this timeline. Things were often tense between them because they rarely agreed on anything but Lucius needed his vote in the Wizengamot and that made him play nice. Harry took it as a win.

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10 years later

As Narcissa navigated the enchanting corridors of Potter Manor, a subtle glow radiated from her, signaling the magical life growing within. Whispers of anticipation echoed through the manor as family members and house elves prepared for the arrival of the newest member of the Potter clan, after three boys she was praying this one would be a girl.

Narcissa found solace in the library where she quickly attempted to make herself comfortable on the sofa by the fire to rest her aching feet.

"Tired," asked a familiar voice that still made her pulse quicken.

"Always," Narcissa replied with a chuckle. Harry put down the book he was reading and came to join her on the sofa. He careful placed her feet in his lap and gently massaged her swollen feet. Just as her eyes began to drift closed a contraction forced her awake. Another one quickly followed.

"It's time my love," she whispered. Harry nodded and manoeuvred himself out from under her legs to go get her sisters. He came back for a quick kiss and then departed.

Witches and wizards skilled in magical obstetrics were summoned to assist, ensuring both her and the unborn child's wellbeing. James, her eldest son, stood by her side with a mix of excitement and nervousness. He cast protective charms and pampered her with potions, determined to make this journey as comfortable as possible for his mother. He remembered the birth of his youngest brother, it did not sound pleasant.

Harry helped her to the bedroom and assisted her in getting settled in the middle of the large four poster bed. As requested the room flickered with the soft glow of enchanted candles as Narcissa lay on a bed adorned with floating rose petals. Harry quickly took his place by her side, his hand lovingly clasping hers for support. The air hummed with a mixture of anticipation and the comforting whispers of ancient spells being softly spoken by her sisters. With each contraction, Narcissa found strength in Harry's presence. His green eyes reflected determination and empathy as he whispered words of encouragement.

"I'm not letting you do this to me again," Narcissa growled. Harry couldn't help but chuckle despite the look from his wife.

"You said that last time love," Harry replied.

"Well this time I mean it," she yelled as the next contraction came.

"As you wish," he said as he kissed her forehead.

As the magical moment arrived, Narcissa's grip tightened on Harry's hand. The room filled with a soft luminescence, as if the very walls were rejoicing in the miracle of life. With a final push and the loud cry of a newborn, Narcissa let out a sigh of relief. Several minutes later the mediwitch handed her the baby and she held her newborn close. A tear of joy rolled down her check as she looked at the beautiful baby girl in her arms, the perfect mix of her and Harry.

A week later Harry watched from the window of his study as Sirius and his wife played with all the children in the garden while Narcissa was rocking the newest member of the family in her favourite swing on the porch. Sirius and his wife had just returned from their latest adventure, bringing with them tales that sparked laughter and curiosity among the children.

He smiled at how his life had turned out. He wouldn't change any of it. Sirius had surprised him most of all. He became a curse breaker with Gringott's, a job which Harry had to admit fitted him well. On one of his many adventures in Egypt he met a local native and fell head over heels in love, something he always swore would never happen to 'him'. Within a year they were married, Harry was sad but not surprised when Sirius decided to move there permanently. Harry missed his best friend immensely but he took solace in Narcissa as he always did and his friendship with Kingsley was as strong as it had been in his past life. In fact, he saw Kingsley quite regularly, which was to be expected given that he had married Bellatrix. They could often be found at Potter Manor on a weekend, all of the cousins exploring the vast property as the parents paired off, Bellatrix and Narcissa locking themselves in the library while Harry and Kingsley took over the training room.

Andromeda and Ted were also frequent visitors. There were many things in this reality that were different, but the young Dora Tonks was exactly as he imagined she would have been in his old world.

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm golden light across the sprawling grounds of Potter Manor, Harry stepped outside, taking a moment to breathe in the crisp evening air. Narcissa, now standing gracefully on the porch with their newborn daughter cradled against her chest, caught his gaze. Her eyes sparkled with a mixture of love and mischief. "I was wondering if you would join us?" she called, a hint of laughter in her voice.

"Of course," Harry replied, his heart swelling with affection. He joined her on the porch, wrapping an arm around her waist as they both watched their children. James, now a spirited ten-year-old, was enthusiastically showing off a new spell he'd learned, while their two younger boys, Severus and Hugo, cheered him on.

"Do you think we'll ever tire of this?" Harry mused, glancing down at their daughter, who was peacefully asleep in Narcissa's arms.

"Not a chance," Narcissa said softly. "Every moment is a treasure. And this time, we have a long, splendid future to look forward to."

As dusk settled, the family went inside for dinner. The dinner table was alive with conversation, filled with the sounds of clinking glasses and shared stories. Kingsley and Bellatrix exchanged knowing glances, their playful banter adding to the joyous atmosphere. Narcissa's sisters flanked her, their love and support evident in their laughter and camaraderie.

As Harry raised his glass, he took a moment to reflect. "To family," he began, his voice steady and full of warmth. "To second chances, and to love that knows no bounds."

"To family!" echoed around the table, voices rising in a chorus of agreement.

That night, as they settled into bed, Narcissa curled into him, her fingers tracing patterns on his chest. "What a beautiful life we've built," she whispered.

"Better than I ever dreamed," Harry replied, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "And it's only just beginning."

With hearts full of hope and joy, they drifted into a peaceful sleep, ready to embrace whatever adventures awaited them in this new reality. The echoes of their past lives continued to fade like shadows in the dawn, replaced by the promise of a future brimming with love, laughter, and endless possibilities.

In the quiet of the night, the stars above shimmered brightly, as if celebrating the extraordinary journey of two souls who had found their way to each other, against all odds. And in that moment, Harry knew they were truly home.