A/N Thank you again to I Love Music and my guest reviewer, for your reviews of the last chapter. I really do hope those trips to the past give everyone the insight into Theo that I am hoping for. This chapter was really fun to write, especially the end. Enjoy!

Chapter 20: Open A Window

Ernie's wedding was in three days. Theo was supposed to be heading to a fancy hotel-resort for the bachelor party. Wayne Hopkins, Ernie's best man, had picked the place and would be in charge of the entire weekend, right up until it was time for Ernie to say, 'I do.' Spending three days with Harry Potter, Ronald Weasley, and Wayne Hopkins was not Theo's idea of a great time. It didn't matter how nice the meals were going to be, how good the Quidditch match was, or how interested Theo was in learning how to play golf with Ernie's father. Three days with the two Gryffindor's should be interesting. Theo thought to himself, he ought to invite Stephan Cornfoot or Terry Boot to come along, just so they had a Ravenclaw in the mix to keep the peace. He planned on getting to know Wayne better and avoiding Ron at all costs. However, Ron better have some answers about his case for him, or the next three days would be that much more unpleasant. For Ernie's sake though, he would be on his best behavior, as long as Weasley was on his.

The festivities would commence that night, and Theo would spend the next three nights without Daphne sleeping by his side. The next time he would see her was when she would walk down the aisle with Ronald Weasley, at the wedding. He didn't understand why he couldn't just be Daphne's escort. But Wayne a Hufflepuff, was Ernie's best man, followed by Harry, Ron and Theo last. Tracey was Sally's Maid of Honor. Sally insisted that Millie be with Harry, and Daphne be next, before her little sister Sarah. That put Daphne on Ron's arm for the event, and Sarah with Theo.

Before he could spend time thinking about it, he had a meeting with Arthur Prince this morning, then a meeting with Draco, Greg, Blaise, and Lords Malfoy and Greengrass. Apparently, the two older men wished to discuss the damning article Parkinson had written a couple of days prior, with the four younger men. Theo didn't know what Prince wanted, only that the man had requested an audience. He was glad for the second meeting. Not only did he agree they all needed to talk about what Pansy had written and plan how to deal with her, but it would give him a chance to ask Lord Greengrass for permission to marry Daphne. Every time, he owled the Greengrass Patriarch about getting together for dinner, lunch, or even a drink, Lord Greengrass either ignored his request, or sent back a message saying he was busy.

Theo didn't understand why it was so hard to meet with the man. Draco had no problem setting up a dinner with him, and Lord Greengrass had given Draco his blessing days ago. Theo couldn't figure out why he would say yes to Draco but kept putting him off. His father being a Death Eater, was the only reason Greengrass had ever given Theo for not approving of him, but so was Lucius Malfoy. True, Malfoy had never been convicted of, or even accused of murder during either war, while his father had. But Theo served or followed the Death Eaters. Draco had. Theo walked into his study, deciding to put Draco and Lord Greengrass out of his mind for now. He needed to get ready to meet with Prince.

Theo had sat down in the chair behind his desk, when Tony walked in, with Daphne right behind him. "Good morning, sir. I trust your breakfast was fine."

Theo looked up and smiled. "It always is Tony, you know that."

"Would you like me to set any refreshments out for your meeting with Mr. Prince, or wait until the others arrive?" Tony knew the answer before asking the question but asked anyway.

"Wait for the others. I don't want Prince getting comfortable in my home." Theo looked at the latest report which came the night before, but he hadn't read it yet, then looked back up. "Would you bring me some coffee though, please?"

Tony nodded and left the room. Theo could feel Daphne staring at him. "What is it, Baby?" He asked without looking up from the report.

Daphne walked around the desk, leaned over and kissed Theo on the forehead. "I will be heading over to Astoria's in a few minutes. Draco has a big night planned and she wants me to help her pick out a dress. You will change into the suit I laid out before you see my father, won't you?"

Theo over-dramatically let his head fall on the desk, hitting his forehead. "Must I?"

"Theo, you do want Daddy to take you seriously, don't you?" Daphne reached over and played with his hair.

Theo turned his head sideways, so he was looking at her. "Of course, I do." He sat up, and wrapped his arms around her waist, pulling her closer to him. "I will change, I promise."

Daphne sat down on his lap, running her fingers through his hair. "I love you; I just really want him to listen to you; really listen. I don't think he has ever given you a chance." Daphne looked down, "We are running out of time; he only gave me month. He needs to know you're on board with the heir issue, or he will go forward with the betrothal to Flint."

Theo put his hands on either side of Daphne's face, one on each cheek, lifting her face to look at him. "I will not lose you to Marcus Flint. Daphne, you don't have to marry him just because your father signs some contract. The Ministry changed that law a long time ago."

"I know that Theo, but I don't want to lose my family, either. I love my father. In spite of all of this, I still love him. It would just make things so much easier for us, if you can get him to listen to you and agree." Daphne closed her eyes for a moment, letting a tear slip out.

Theo wiped the tear away. "I don't want to take you away from him Daph, but I love you. I need you. I won't just give up. I will fight for us, just like I said I would. I will fight until you tell me to stop, or until we win."

Daphne exhaled lightly, while smiling. "We will fight together. I need you too."

Theo leaned in, and captured her lips with his, kissing her deeply. They were interrupted, by a knock on the door.

"Lord Nott, Mr. Prince is here." Tony walked to the desk, and set down a tray, with Theo's coffee. Tony then turned to Prince, indicated to a chair, nodded to the man, and left the room.

Daphne stood up, smoothing out her skirt. "I will see later." She smiled at Theo and turned to go.

"Well, if that is the way you conduct business Nott, your problems are bigger than I thought." Prince smirked, while he sat down.

Theo looked at Prince, "This is the future Lady Nott, Prince. You might want to show some respect."

"Oh, you must be Miss Greengrass. My apologies." Prince said the words but didn't sound sincere.

Theo walked Daphne to the door "Will I see tonight?

"I will try. I love you." Daphne left, leaving Theo alone with Arthur Prince.

Theo turned to look directly at the man sitting in his study. Prince, with his perfectly combed and styled, sandy blond hair: his light blue, double breasted, silk suit: his perfectly manicured nails: and his scowling hazel eyes, staring at Theo as if he was trying to burn a hole into his chest. Theo laughed and shook his head as he walked back to his desk. If anyone came into the room right now, they would think Prince was the one in charge by the way he was dressed, verses Theo's bare feet, torn jeans, Mega Death t-shirt, and messy brown hair. Theo had recently started wearing a goatee. It wasn't very long, and he planned to keep it short, but Daphne liked a little facial hair on him. Said it made him look rugged and sexy.

Theo sat back down in the chair behind his desk, and pulled his left leg up, tucking his foot under his right knee. "What can I do for you, Prince?"

"Oh, it is what I can do for you, Nott." Arthur leaned forward, and picked up his briefcase, he motioned to Theo's desk, "May I?"

"Please." Theo waved a hand in front of him, indicating to Prince he may set the case on his desk.

Prince pulled a few papers out of his case. "You see, I have seen the articles that have been in the papers about your missing shipments. Since, I remember what running the factories was like, I was able to work up these reports showing what I believe the loses cost you." He handed them to Theo.

Theo furrowed his eyebrows, "Prince, I know exactly what it cost me. I don't need you doing reports." Theo took them and set them on the desk without looking at them.

"Of course, you don't. However, I seem to remember this sort of thing not happening while I was CEO." Prince put the tips of his fingers together and held his hands in front of him.

"So?" Theo shrugged.

Prince smiled, "I happened to noticed Miss Parkinson referring to your unfortunate Death Eater ties in all three articles she has written about you, since your return. I can't help but wonder if those ties are the motive for whomever is behind this."

Theo cocked his head to one side and ran a hand through his hair. "Why do you care, exactly?"

"I made a promise to your father Theodore, that I would make sure the Nott family legacy stayed intact. I fear you're allowing it to fall apart." Prince sounded so smug. He had no idea how much Theo hated 'smug'!

Theo picked up his coffee and took a drink, "I relieved you of that obligation when I took over. You needn't worry about my family's legacy. I will find out who is behind the theft, and they will be dealt with."

Prince smiled at Theo; the conversation was going exactly like he thought it would. "I am here to make you an offer. Everyone knows what side I was on, during the war. You're a smart man, you know what kind of impact a person's loyalties during that time has, especially in business. I am willing to come back as the acting CEO; let us see if that doesn't appease the culprit."

"In other words, you want me to hand operational control of my business, back over to a man, who skimmed the profits to fill his own vault for three years." Theo leaned back in his chair.

"Every CEO, of every business, gets accused of that sort of thing. I never stole from your company, and you know it." Prince crossed his legs, not showing any sort of fear.

Theo sipped his coffee again, "I have no proof of course, or you would already be in Azkaban. But as I told you the day I returned; I did keep up on the business. Every month, the numbers were off, not by much, just a little, a few thousand galleons. Easily explained, as some sort of business expense. Except, there were never any receipts for those expenses. So where did that gold go?"

Prince looked at his nails, "The gold went to cover your father's legal expenses and medical bills. He wanted it kept quiet. Your father was a proud man, Theodore. He didn't want people knowing he was ill, or that he was continuing to fight his incarceration. I am sure I could come up with some sort of paper trail to prove where the missing funds went. The truth is, your father thought you wouldn't pay that close attention, or care."

"That does sound like my father. He never did give me much credit." Theo untucked his foot and leaned forward. "Mr. Prince, I am not prepared at this time to just hand control back over to you. To be honest, I don't like you." Theo looked at the picture of Daphne he kept on his desk. Suddenly remembering, a certain picture of his mother which had set in the same place. A picture he accidently knocked down, earning him five lashes from his father, at age six. Theo shuddered at the memory. He reached forward and brushed invisible dust off the frame, "However, you do make a valid point. People seem to be unable to accept the fact that I am not my father. If things continue the way they are, and you can prove where the missing funds went, I may be willing to talk again in the future."

Not exactly the way Prince was hoping the meeting would go, but he was prepared for this outcome. He would now take his argument to the Elder Board. Although wizarding companies were not traded on a stock market like Muggle ones, they did have their Elder Board. Even Wizards need checks and balances. Prince knew he may not be able to steal or buy the company from Theo, it would forever belong to Nott, but he could get the board to vote Theo out as CEO and place himself back in that position. That was the real goal.

Theo stood up, and walked to the door of his study, opened it up and turned to Prince, "You may go, I don't think there is anything further for us to discuss."

Prince picked up his papers and put them back in his briefcase. He stood while closing it. "Well, I must say, this went a little better than I thought it would. You at least heard me out."

"Of course I did. I am not a child any longer, Prince. I am a Lord." Theo returned the smug look; Prince had given him a little while ago.

Prince chuckled at that, "Of course, you are." He walked over to Theo and held out his hand, "Until next time, I will work on gathering the proof for you."

Theo shook Prince's hand and smiled politely. As he watched the man swagger out of his Manor, he couldn't help but feel something was off. Prince seemed almost too confident, too sure he would get back control of the factories. Theo wished he could put his finger on what it was that felt wrong about the man, but he just couldn't.

xXXx

Lucius stood in the drawing room of Malfoy Manor, trying to remember a time when he enjoyed being in this room. He remembered his grandfather entertaining guests in this room when he was little, although he couldn't really say he enjoyed those times. As a little kid, one never really enjoys being stuffed into a fancy suit or dress robes, for any reason. When he got older, his father would entertain groups of men in this room, but he would be off studying or practicing fencing, like a young gentleman was supposed to. Again, no time for enjoyment.

Once he was man of the house, meetings were held in this room. Narcissa hadn't wanted Death Eaters traipsing through the manor. At the time, he would have called those meetings enjoyable, but not now. After the first war ended, Narcissa entertained lots of times. Tea parties and cocktails, always trying to keep up the image of being proper Pure-Bloods, who were playing nice and hoping to make new connections. Lucius remembered having to smile and make small talk with Half-Bloods and the very occasional, Muggle-Born. He had hated it.

Now, when he looked in this room, although Narcissa had the room completely redone, from the paint on the ceiling, to the shape of the windows, he still saw blood. He still saw the terror in his son's eyes, while being forced to witness things a seventeen-year-old should have never witnessed. He still saw those red eyes glowing in the corner, even in daylight. Lucius closed his eyes, trying to make the images go away. He wanted to be able to go in this room without being haunted. Truth be told, he simply didn't want to have the meeting this afternoon with Dalton and the boys in his study.

But standing there with his eyes closed, he heard the screams of that Muggle-Born Granger, and the cackle of his sister-in-law. He felt the Dark Lord's breath on his neck, and the chill in the air whenever the Dark Lord spoke. He saw Draco's face wince every time Granger screamed, as he stood in the corner powerless to stop his aunt from torturing his classmate, even one he hated. He could see the pleading look on his wife's face, when she admitted to him later, how she had wished Potter would have taken Draco with them.

Lucius knew he had failed his son. Failed him many times over. He had it all planned out years ago, the way he would mold Draco into a proper Pure-Blood man. One who knew he was superior to everyone, because he was not only Pure-Blood, but a Malfoy. Those plans had faded away and were replaced with much harsher punishments than he had ever intended. When he made his grand plans, the Dark Lord was supposed to win, not be taken down by a mere baby. With his plans shattered at his feet, Ministry trials that seemed to never end, and constant raids on his home his frustrations had grown. He had become the very thing he hated most, his father, taking his frustrations out on his son.

Lucius could never make up for the abuse he put Draco through, but he could try to do some good now. He could help find a cure for the woman Draco had chosen. He could help his future daughter-in-law's father out of a predicament, which was causing him to give away one of his most valuable possessions, his eldest daughter. He could help his son, and his son's best mates find a way to deal with the Daily Prophet, and the person who seemed intent on dragging the four boys back through the mud.

He took a deep breath when he heard a knock on the door. Knowing who it would be, he slowly turned around. "You're right on time, as always Greengrass."

Lord Greengrass looked around the room before taking a cautious step in. "So, this is where it all happened?"

"Narcissa is trying very hard to wash away the stains left in this room and make it pleasant again. I thought we might try to help her out, by meeting in here. But now I am not so sure I can stand being in here for very long." Lucius gave Dalton a 'What do you think' look.

Greengrass walked around the room looking closely at everything, as if he was looking for evidence. "I think it may be more difficult for Draco and Greg to be in this room."

Lucius nodded. "You're right. I hadn't really thought about Greg, or even how Theodore would react to being back in this room. Perhaps, the smaller dinning room would be better. There just isn't enough room in my study."

A lie, but Lucius had always managed to keep Death Eater business out of his study. He wanted to keep it that way. This may not be Death Eater business, but Pansy was certainly trying to claim it was in her articles. Lucius asked the elf, who was setting out finger sandwiches and tea, to please, move everything to the small dining room. He still couldn't get used to seeing the elves in clothes. He was amazed how many of them accepted their freedom but chose to stay and continue serving the families to whom they had belonged. He had gotten used to having to get his own late-night snacks and getting out his own clothes from time to time, because the elves had time off. He even found it, almost therapeutic to speak nicely to them. What he still struggled with, was them wearing little jackets and ties.

Lucius and Dalton walked from the drawing room to the smaller of the three dining rooms. It would hold twenty at the large oak table. The same table that had been in this room for the last four generations of Malfoy. Lucius chuckled softly to himself, thinking about how as teens they would escape to this room from the balls and dinner parties. If one was to look under the table, toward the right side, far corner, they would find LM Loves NB carved in the solid oak. His father would have killed him for that. Funny what a sixteen-year-old would do, to impress a girl. Little did he know that a few months ago, while Draco visited to introduce Astoria to his mother and father, DM loves AG had been added beside it.

"So, have you found a 'new barrel'?" Dalton asked, as he pulled out a chair and sat down.

Lucius took the seat at the head of the table, where he always sat. "I have a potential barrel."

"Well, do we have some time before the boys arrive for you to tell me?" Dalton crossed his arms in front of him.

"They are all meeting at Nott Manor, according to Draco and then will floo over. Greg is still on probation and can't apparate yet. I believe we have time." Lucius poured a cup of tea and took a sip before continuing. "Do you remember Bill Weasley?"

"Of course, eldest Weasley boy, yes?" Dalton relaxed his arms a little but didn't uncross them.

"Yes. Well, during the war he was attacked by Greyback. He has shown signs of becoming a werewolf and has nasty side effects." Lucius sipped his tea again.

Dalton leaned forward. "That is terrible for him, but what does it have to do with Flint?"

"Nothing." Lucius gave Dalton a sly smile. "Bill has unfortunately, found himself in need of emergency care, two or three times and the attending Healer has luckily been Draco."

Dalton shook his head. "Lucius, you said you would try to find something out about Flint. Not something interesting about Bill Weasley."

Lucius smiled even bigger. "Ah, but Bill Weasley can help. You see, he works for Gringotts as a curse breaker. According to Bill, Draco is the only Healer, who hasn't been too scared of him to treat him. He says he owes me, or owes Draco, anyway."

"Please, get to where this helps me." Dalton uncrossed his arms.

"Well Dalton, the way I see it, Flint's money had to go somewhere. His fortune didn't just evaporate into thin air." Lucius took a sandwich and studied it for a second. Deciding it was a meat he liked, he took a bite then continued. "Weasley is willing to look into Flint's accounts to see if he can shed some light on where the money went. Although, since account records is not really his job, it may take him a few days."

Greengrass was finally pleased. "That would be a great start. I have tried to get a look at his records and been unsuccessful so far. A contact inside the bank, willing to assist is extremely helpful. Thank you. However, I do need something fast. Time is running out."

"Time? What do you mean?" Lucius raised his eyebrows.

Dalton took a sandwich as he answered. "Flint has a deadline for when he wants Daphne to sign the contract. I am afraid that deadline is quickly approaching." He sat back and rubbed his temple, "If I don't have something soon, I will have no choice, but to force her to comply, even if it is simply to buy more time. I am sure I can convince my wife to make the wedding plans drag out."

"What wedding plans?" Dalton and Lucius turned to see Draco standing in the doorframe. "I certainly hope you are not having second thoughts about Astoria and me."

Lucius stood and walked over to Draco. "Nobody that you need to worry about son. A distant cousin of the Greengrass clan. You know how the women all gather together, when it comes to weddings." He gave his son a pat on the back.

Draco stepped around his father, to walk into the room. "I somehow expected to be meeting in your study. Why the more informal setting?"

Lucius held his arm out, indicating for the other boys to enter. "I wanted your friends to feel comfortable."

Blaise entered first, "Lord Malfoy." He shook the older man's hand, then turned to the Greengrass patriarch. "Lord Greengrass, I don't remember the last time I had the pleasure."

"Mr. Zabini. How is your mother?" Dalton stood to greet the dark-skinned man addressing him.

"She is doing well. I think she is enjoying married life, finally." He turned to the tall man with the high and tight haircut, who was lingering by the door. "You remember Gregory Goyle, don't you?" He indicated to Greg, who shivered at hearing his formal name.

Dalton offered Greg a hand first, "Greg, you look well. Your business ventures are impressive. You should be proud."

Greg shook Greengrass's hand, then reached out to take Lord Malfoy's. "I am, although truth be told, I couldn't have done it without Millie's help. But Blaise and I have recently become partners, so I see an even brighter future for the clubs."

As Greg went to take a seat beside Blaise, Theo shook Lord Malfoy's hand, then offered Lord Greengrass his hand and biggest smile. "Lord Greengrass, I was hoping I could have a few minutes of your time, when we are through here. I have something important I would like to discuss." Theodore saw Draco over Lord Greengrass's shoulder give him an encouraging smile.

Dalton shook his hand quickly, "Nott, now is not the time for personal business. We must discuss these outrageous claims Miss Parkinson is making."

"I understand that, Sir. It is why I want to talk after. I would like to talk to you regarding myself and Daphne." Theodore tried to wipe the sweat from his palm discreetly on his trousers.

Dalton looked at him, he wanted to show the young man sympathy. He knew what Theo wanted, but he couldn't give it to him. Not yet. So, instead of smiling, he gave Theodore the sternest look he could conger, "I said, NOW is not the time, Nott."

"Then when?" Theodore turned, and followed Lord Greengrass as he went back to his seat, pulling out the chair beside him. "I have been owling for the last two weeks."

Dalton rubbed his temple again. "Let us first deal with the issue at hand. Perhaps, in a few weeks, when things are dealt with..."

Theo cut him off, "If it's about the heir issue, Sir. I understand and am willing to work with you."

"THEODORE!" Dalton yelled loudly, causing all four boys in the room to jump a little. "Sit Down! I will not discuss this with you at this time."

Theo fell into the chair he had pulled out, then quickly wished it hadn't been beside Lord Greengrass.

Lucius chuckled lightly, "You remember how it was to be young and in love Dalton. The boy is just eager. You can't fault him for that." Lucius held his teacup up, toward Theo. "You do have good taste Theodore. However, Lord Greengrass is correct, let us please, deal with this issue. Your time will come."

Theo rubbed his hands on his thighs. "Yes, Sir. My apologies." Suddenly Theo's tie felt like it was trying to cut off his air supply, and he couldn't resist reaching up, and pulling on it. Oh, how he hated suits.

"Don't worry yourself about it, Theodore." Lucius sipped his tea. "Tell us, do you have any idea who might be behind the theft from your factories?"

Theo took a deep breath to compose himself. The last man who had yelled at him like that, had been his father. "No, Sir. I can only guess it is someone who doesn't like me, or at least didn't like my father. Unfortunately, since he was a Death Eater and with things as they are now, the list could be rather long."

"Who doesn't like you enough to steal from your factories?" Dalton took his glasses off, laying them on the table.

Theo had to bite his lip to keep from blurting out, 'Other than you'. Instead, he took a deep breath, "Ron Weasley hates me, but I can't see him doing this. Pansy seems to hate me quite a bit, but I can't see her pulling this off."

"I wouldn't underestimate her, mate. I know better than anyone, what she is capable off." Draco propped his elbows up on the table.

"I thought you said, the only thing she was any good at, was being on her knees?" Theo sneered at Draco while he spoke, then quickly looked away.

Draco gave Theo a questioning look, "She is more cunning than you think."

Theo scoffed, "Learned from the best."

"What the hell, Theo!" Draco went to stand up, but Lucius put a hand on his shoulder.

"I am sure, Theodore is just feeling the strain from everything that is happening, son." Lucius poured a cup of tea, and pushed it toward Theo. "What about that Prince fellow?"

Theo ignored the tea. "He does dislike me, since I fired him. The idea that he is behind it, had crossed my mind. But now he wants back in my employ, came to see me about it this morning." Theo looked at the cup, then wrinkled his nose. "I don't drink tea."

Dalton pulled the cup toward him, while waving at the elf in the corner to come over. "Do you have anything that might serve as proof, of his possible involvement?" Dalton then turned to the elf, "Please, bring Theodore a cup of coffee."

Theo narrowed his eyes at Greengrass, "No, I have opened a case with the Auror department, but they have found nothing so far."

Dalton added milk to the cup of tea. "What about Miss Parkinson, why would she want to be smearing the four of you?"

Greg cracked his knuckles and leaned forward. "I can't think of a single thing I have ever done to Pansy."

"You're friends with Draco, reason enough." Theo spat at Greg.

Draco fumed, "What the bloody hell is that supposed to mean?"

Blaise leaned forward, to try smooth things between his friends, "I think he is referring to the fact, that you didn't exactly keep your breakup with her quiet. Hell, you didn't even keep it private. Surely, you haven't forgotten her throwing the entire contents of the common room at you?"

Draco laughed at the memory. "I did have a few things on my mind that year."

"Yes, we know." Theo leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms.

Greg shuddered, then looked at Draco. "I suppose, I did take your side on that. I will always have your back mate."

Draco smiled at Greg, but Theo spoke again before Draco could, "Yes, you will always have your lapdog on your side." As soon as the words came out, Theo wished he could take them back. Instead, he closed his eyes, wishing he was anywhere else.

Blaise put his arm in front of Greg, who tried to reach across the table, "What the bloody hell has gotten into you, Theo? Everything was fine back at your manor."

Dalton looked at Theo, then rubbed the bridge of his nose, he knew what had gotten into him. He took the coffee from the elf and set it in front of Theo, while leaning in close to speak, so others couldn't hear him. "Knock it off, Theodore." Dalton put his hand on the back of Theo's neck, gave it a little squeeze to show he wasn't playing, and continued to whisper, "You want Daphne's hand, right?"

Theo nodded, "Yes Sir."

Dalton continued. "Well, you are not impressing me with this attitude, son. Drink your coffee and play nice." Dalton leaned back up and sipped his tea.

Theo forced his hands out of the tight fists they had formed under the table. Shakily, he picked up the cup and took a drink, ignoring how hot it was, he swallowed; trying to swallow the lump in his throat along with the coffee. Setting the cup down, he looked at Draco. "I am sorry for my behavior, mate." He wanted the words to sound sincere, but they didn't.

Draco watched Theo's hands continue to shake. He reached down to his pocket and patted the crystal box, knowing exactly why Theo was acting this way. "I understand Theo, we're fine."

Lucius sighed heavily, "Well, let's try to move forward, shall we. Draco, other than the breakup, is there any reason Pansy would want to hurt you?"

Draco shook his head no, "Not that I can think of Father. But knowing Pansy, that is reason enough. It wasn't just the breakup, but all the times she tried to get back together, and I turned her down."

Lucius raised his eyebrows and smirked at Draco. Turning his focus to Blaise, "Blaise, any reason she would be after you?"

Blaise thought about it. He had made out with her several times, turning their fifth year, when Draco was too busy trying to impress his father with the inquisitorial squad and didn't have time for her. But that wouldn't have upset her, would it? No, more likely the fact that he turned her down, when she went trolling for a new 'Prince'. He finally took a deep breath and looked up. "Nothing I can think of Sir. I honestly think she is after Draco and Theo for some reason. Greg and I just happen to be in the way."

Theo set the coffee cup down again, after taking another sip. "That actually makes the most sense as to why she involved both of you. Sorry for my comment earlier Greg, it was uncalled for."

Greg smiled and waved it off, "Nothing to worry about Theo. Millie thinks Pansy involved me because of the clubs. It is public record that all three of you have invested with me. Perfect for Pansy's web weaving, having all of us tied together like that."

"Can you prove where all the profits from your clubs have gone, Gregory?" Dalton asked in-between bites of a sandwich.

"Sure can. Millie keeps meticulous records, every knut or penny accounted for." Greg said proudly.

"The only thing I have ever done to Pansy was turn her down also, when she was looking to replace Draco." Theo pulled at his red tie again. Daphne insisted red was a power color, and he needed to show power today in front of her father; too bad he screwed that up. He looked directly at Lord Greengrass, "Would it help if Greg released the financial records to the prophet?"

Dalton rubbed his chin thinking, "What do you think, Lucius? I think it would be a good idea. Shows they are not trying to hide anything."

Lucius smiled. "I agree. The three of you," he pointed at Blaise, Draco, and Theo, "should also release records as to what you're doing with your profits."

"Are you okay with that, Father?" Draco looked tense, when he addressed Lucius.

"You opened a separate account to distance yourself from me. Not wanting to live off of Malfoy money, I understand. I was unwilling to try and change." He gave Draco a squeeze on the forearm. "I am fine with it. Perhaps, it's time I make a more public attempt to show I am now willing to try harder to make the changes, since my stubbornness almost cost me my son."

Dalton drummed his fingers on the table thinking, "Instead of statements, you could knock it out in one day, by hosting a press conference."

Blaise smiled, showing his white teeth to the group, "I think that is a brilliant idea." He turned to Greg, "You can send over the reports in the morning. I will come by after this and help get them together. Then I will contact the Prophet and set it up. Does Zabini Estates work for everyone?"

Everyone nodded around the table, Lucius stood up. "You boys need to be ready to answer any questions, everything is on the table, nothing off limits. Can you each handle that?"

Greg was the first to answer, "My whole life is already public record. I will let Millie know what is going on, but it will not be a problem."

Lucius looked at Blaise next. "I would rather they didn't ask questions about Tracey, but if she is going to be with me, she has to get use to that." Blaise winked at Theo, who gave him a 'it's getting serious look.

"Putting everything on the table, means the topics of Astoria and Daphne are on the table. Are you okay with that, Lord Greengrass." Theo looked at the Greengrass patriarch, hoping he would say something that would give him an indication of what his answer would be, regarding giving Daphne's hand to him.

Lord Greengrass continued to drum his fingers on the table. "Draco, I would ask that you please, keep Astoria's illness private. Other than that, your relationship with her is as open as you wish it to be." He took a deep breath and seemed lost in thought for a moment. "Theodore, I trust you will have nothing but good things to say about Daphne and will be discreet should the topic of Flint and marriage come up."

Theo looked displeased, "There is nothing, but good things to say about Daphne, Sir." Theo turned and looked at his coffee cup. "You have my word I will be discreet regarding Flint; you needn't worry." Theo looked at his watch then stood up. "Blaise, I am not available for this until Sunday, but I think Monday would be better. If you all will excuse me, I have somewhere to be." He got ready to leave the room, then turned back to Lord Greengrass. "Sir, Daphne made me promise I would talk to you, but I get the feeling even if I asked, your answer would be no."

Dalton stood and faced Theo, "Because of certain circumstances that are currently beyond my control, you're correct. My answer is a firm No."

Theo's right hand shook slightly, "I suppose you're unwilling to tell me why?"

"Regretfully, I cannot." Dalton gave Theo a stern look, letting him know arguing would not serve him.

Theo looked at his feet for a moment, then back up. His voice sounding unsteady, "I will not give up, Sir. I love Daphne, more than anything. I will find a way to prove to you that I am worthy of her. I would die for Daphne." Theo looked at Draco and the others. "See you mates, Saturday." With that he turned and left the room.

Draco jumped up and followed him into the hall. "Theo."

Theo kept walking, ignoring Draco.

"Theo!" Draco took larger steps trying to catch up to his friend.

Theo continued to walk faster.

"Theo, would you stop and talk to me!" Draco sounded almost out of breath.

Theo stopped walking finally, but didn't turn to face him, "I am sorry for the way I acted, Draco. You didn't deserve it."

"I understand how you feel, Theo. But I lost my best friend for four years, because of the stupid choices I made as a kid. Please tell me, I haven't lost our friendship again, because of Lord Greengrass." Draco placed his hand on Theo's shoulder.

Theo looked over his shoulder at him. "You haven't. It's just frustrating. I tried so hard to stay on the right side, and he won't even talk to me." Theo turned, so he was looking directly at Draco. "You danced with the devil, and he hands you Tori."

Draco dropped his hand. "Theo, I will continue to apologize for the rest of my life for the way I treated you."

"You don't have to, Draco. It's just...difficult, you know." Theo ran a hand through his hair. "No offense mate, but why are you acceptable and I am not?"

"I don't know." Draco shook his head. "Do you want me to talk to him?"

Theo shook his head no, "No, please don't. I don't want you doing anything that might make him change his mind about you and Tori." Theo took a deep breath, "I have two options, bow out and lose the only woman I will ever love, or push a wedge between her and her father." He sighed heavily, "Either way, I lose."

Draco smiled at him, but it seemed forced. "You're not alone in this, Theo. I, hell we, have your back. If there is any way I can help, tell me."

Theo slapped Draco on the shoulder. "I will figure this out, mate. I have to."

xXXx

Draco led Astoria to the swings, in the middle of the small Muggle Park, he had taken her for a romantic picnic. They had sat on a picnic blanket and ate while they laughed, and talked about whatever came to mind. At one point, he asked her how she would feel about living at Malfoy Manor. Not now, but one day. He wasn't ready to deal with those demons, yet. However, he had been thinking lately, he would like to live there again, even for a little while before he signed it over to Teddy. He was impressed with what his mother had done with the place. It was almost unrecognizable. Astoria told him she would follow him anywhere. They could stay in their flat or live in the Manor, as long as he was by her side every night.

Draco walked behind Astoria and gently pushed the swing. Not too hard, he didn't want her getting too far away from him. Harder to sneak kisses on her neck if she was flying above his head. So, he would gently push two or three times, then grab her by the waist, and kiss her neck. Sometimes, one small kiss other times, until he heard her moan, then he would give her another gentle push.

Astoria looked behind her back at the blond, who was smiling bigger than he ever had. "I love you, Draco Malfoy."

Draco kissed the tip of her nose, then walked around her so he was standing directly in front of her. "I love you, Astoria Greengrass. More than you will ever know. If you give me the chance though, I will spend the rest of my life trying to show you."

Astoria looked at his grey eyes, he looked so serious. "You know I will, my love." She went to reach for his hand, but Draco moved out of her reach. At first, she was taken aback by his sudden movement, then Astoria noticed Draco was down on one knee with a crystal box in his hands looking up at her. She couldn't help the smile that spread across her face, or the happy giggle she let out while her eyes got misty. Draco had already asked her to marry him. She had said yes, but now he was on bended knee with a ring. Knowing Draco, with 'the' ring.

An older couple walking by, stopped to watch as the blond man in his perfectly cut and tailored three-piece suit, opened the crystal box to reveal a four-caret diamond ring. The platinum setting shining brightly in the moonlight. You would have to hold the ring close to see 'Malfoy', engraved on the band in this light, but Astoria knew it was there. This was the Malfoy heirloom engagement ring. The only ring Draco would consider good enough to be on her hand.

Draco's hands shook, even though he knew her answer would be yes. He smiled warmly at the beauty, who sat on the swing looking at him with love radiant in her eyes. "Astoria, before I met you, everything I did went wrong. Now that you're in my life, everything I do feels right. Would you make this broken Wizard whole again, by becoming my wife?"

The older woman across the way watching, started crying when she saw the young woman leap off the swing, and tackle the blond gentleman to the ground, showering him with kisses and screeching 'Yes, yes, oh yes!"

Draco finally landed his lips on Astoria's, and kissed her deeply, while lying on the ground in front of the swings. After a moment, he sat them up and couldn't stop smiling, while he opened the box and removed the ring. "I love you Astoria." Draco told her again, while he slid the ring on her hand.

"Oh Draco, it is stunning. I would have been fine with any old ring, but this one is amazing. Thank you." Astoria leaned over, and wrapped her arms around Draco's neck, kissing him again.

Draco slid the box in his pocket, then wrapped his arms around Astoria, picking her up as he stood. He carried her back to their picnic blanket and sat her down. Settling down on the blanket beside her, he took her hands in his. "I thought about doing something outrageous, more 'Malfoy', but I thought a simple proposal, in private was more, 'Us'".

"This was perfect Draco, you are perfect. I love you." Astoria pulled him down on top of her, for another passionate kiss.

She reached up and started to remove Draco's tie. He slowly looked around the park to make sure they were alone. Once the older couple had decided to give the young couple their privacy and walked away holding hands, was out of sight, he apparated them back to their flat directly into their bedroom, and on their bed. He had to abandon the blanket and picnic supplies, but who cares, he had the most important thing in the world with him. His bride to be.

A/N So there have been tons of stories with Draco proposing to Astoria, everything from hot air balloon rides to him throwing the ring at her saying, why not? I wanted something not done before, and sweet. Tell me what you think.