A/N Okay I've gotten all the fluff out of my system (for now). After this chapter we can get back to dealing with Voldemort
Chapter 12 – A family vacation
The Hogwarts Express hummed steadily as it made its final journey of the school year, carrying students back to London. The compartments were alive with chatter and laughter, the air filled with the bittersweet mixture of excitement for summer and the sadness of leaving friends behind. Amelia sat by the window, gazing out at the rolling countryside with a soft smile. Beside her, Marlene and Sirius were animatedly recounting stories from the school year, while Lily sat quietly, flipping through a book.
As the train approached King's Cross Station, Amelia's heart fluttered with anticipation. The prospect of being reunited with her family—and a summer with Harry and the children—filled her with warmth. They weren't married yet, so she technically still lived at Bones Manor, but she'd already told Edgar not to expect her to be around often. She smoothed down her robes and checked her reflection in the glass, making sure she looked presentable after the long ride.
When the train finally screeched to a halt, students poured out of the carriages in a flurry of trunks and owls. Amelia stepped off the train, her eyes scanning the bustling platform until they landed on a familiar group waiting near the barrier between platforms 9 and 10.
Edgar stood tall, his arm wrapped protectively around his wife, who was glowing with the radiance of being six-months pregnant. Harry was beside them, a grin spreading across his face as soon as he saw Amelia. The children rushed forward, calling her name as they collided into her in a tight hug.
"You're finally here!" Lily said excitedly, her arms wrapped around Amelia's waist.
"I missed you too, sweetheart," Amelia said, laughing softly as she ruffled her daughter's hair.
Harry approached with a warm smile, leaning in to press a kiss to her cheek. "Welcome home."
Amelia's heart swelled, and she returned his smile, her fingers brushing against his briefly. "It's good to be home."
After gathering her trunk and saying goodbye to her friends, the group made their way to the parking lot. Edgar had arranged for a magical taxi to take them back to Bones Manor, the magical vehicle large enough to accommodate the growing family. The journey was filled with light conversation and laughter, the children eagerly recounting their adventures at Hogwarts while Edgar's wife, Elizabeth, listened with an indulgent smile.
By the time they arrived at Bones Manor, the sun was beginning to set, casting the grand estate in a warm golden light. The scent of a delicious meal wafted through the air as they stepped inside, the house-elves having prepared a feast to welcome Amelia home.
Dinner was lively and full of laughter, with everyone sharing stories and teasing each other. Edgar was in high spirits, and his wife beamed as she rested a hand on her growing belly. After dessert, as the children began to yawn and rub their eyes, Edgar turned to Harry.
"Why don't you and the kids stay the night?" Edgar offered, his tone casual but warm.
Harry glanced at Amelia, whose face lit up with excitement.
"Oh, would you?" Amelia asked, her eyes sparkling as she turned to Harry.
Harry chuckled, unable to resist her hopeful expression. "If it's not too much trouble, we'd love to stay."
"Trouble?" Edgar said with a grin, leaning back in his chair. "I think Amelia might riot if I didn't extend the offer."
Amelia rolled her eyes but couldn't suppress her smile. "You're insufferable, Edgar."
"Only because I know you so well," he teased, raising his glass of wine in a mock toast. "And because I enjoy watching you blush every time Blackwood indulges you."
Harry laughed, shaking his head. With the decision made, Amelia quickly took charge of getting the children ready for bed. She kissed their foreheads, tucked them into the cozy guest bedroom, and whispered goodnight, lingering a little longer as Lily and Sirius snuggled into the blankets.
"Are you and Daddy going to be here in the morning?" Lily asked sleepily.
"Yes, love," Amelia said softly, brushing a strand of hair from Lily's face. "We'll be here when you wake up."
Satisfied, Lily closed her eyes, and Amelia slipped out of the room, her heart warm from the sight of her children so content.
When she returned to the sitting room, Harry and Edgar were seated on the large leather armchairs, each with a glass of firewhiskey in hand. Edgar gestured to the seat beside Harry, where a glass had been poured for her as well.
"Sit, relax," Edgar said, his grin mischievous. "We're not done embarrassing you yet."
Amelia laughed as she settled onto the sofa beside Harry, who immediately draped an arm around her shoulders. She leaned into him, sipping her drink and savouring the warmth of the moment.
"I hear it was quite the proposal," Edgar said, his tone light but curious.
"It was," Amelia said with a laugh, glancing up at Harry. "He hijacked the leaving feast and did it right there in the Great Hall, in front of everyone. It was so romantic, but I think I blacked out for a second when he actually got down on one knee."
Harry chuckled, rubbing her shoulder. "You were brilliant. For a moment, I thought you might run, though."
Amelia swatted his chest lightly. "I would never! I was just... shocked."
"And now she's completely insufferable," Edgar teased, smirking over his glass. "I don't think I've seen her this happy since... well, ever."
"Careful, Edgar," Amelia said, raising an eyebrow. "I know all your embarrassing stories too."
"I'd better behave, then," Edgar said with mock seriousness, winking at Harry. "I wouldn't want to give you any ideas about what you're getting into, Blackwood."
Harry laughed, shaking his head. "I think I already know. And I wouldn't change a thing."
Amelia's heart swelled as she looked up at him, her fingers brushing lightly over his hand. The three of them continued to talk late into the evening, sharing stories and laughing until their sides hurt.
Finally, Amelia stifled a yawn and glanced at the clock. "I think it's time to call it a night."
"Good idea," Harry said, setting his glass down and standing. He offered her a hand, and she took it, feeling a flutter in her chest as he helped her to her feet.
"Don't stay up too late, Edgar," Amelia said with a smirk as they headed toward the staircase.
"Me? Never," Edgar called after them, his voice full of humour.
As they made their way to Amelia's room, Harry slipped his arm around her waist, pulling her close. "It's nice being here with you," he murmured.
"It's nice having you here," Amelia replied, her voice soft.
When they reached the room, Harry kissed her forehead before stepping inside. Amelia paused for a moment, gazing at him with a smile. She couldn't wait for the day when moments like these would be part of their everyday life—when she would never have to say goodnight to him again.
O – o – o – o
The next morning, Amelia woke to the warmth of Harry wrapped around her, his arm draped securely across her waist, his breath soft and tickling the back of her neck. She smiled, savouring the comfort of being so close to him, but soon squirmed slightly, trying not to disturb him too much.
Harry mumbled something incoherent, tightening his hold and nuzzling into her shoulder.
"I need to go to the bathroom," she whispered softly, trying not to laugh.
Harry groaned dramatically, his voice thick with sleep. "If you must," he said, loosening his hold but not without a reluctant sigh.
Amelia grinned as she gently slipped out of his grasp, glancing back to see him already burying his face into her pillow as though trying to make up for her absence. When she returned she lowered herself to straddle his lap and placed her elbows on the bed on either side of his head.
"Hi," he said as his hands came to rest on her bare back.
"Good morning, love."
"Wonderful morning," Harry agreed, his green eyes danced in the faint light. His hands began to slide over the silky skin of her back and hips, then slowly upward to her shoulders.
"When does your internship start?" Harry asked.
"In a week."
"Good. I have a surprise for you." He pulled her to him and pressed his lips to hers, and the peaks of her nipples to his chest.
** BEGINNING OF LEMON **
Bending his knees slightly to push her forward, he lengthened and hardened to full erection between them. After several moments he slipped a finger through her folds and inside of her, gently sliding in and out.
Amelia rose on her knees until one breast lay against his lips. He latched onto her nipple, licking and sucking, drawing a moan from her as his fingertip found her clit. He gazed up as he tongued her nipple against his teeth, and the intensity on her face radiated through him. Amelia's arms trembled as she held onto his shoulders and arched her back.
Harry pushed against her knees until she lay out on top of him, and held her hips while grinding his erection against her. Reaching between them, she grabbed his shaft and circled her hand around the smooth, hot skin. His moan grew louder until she drove her tongue between his lips. Sliding one hand up and one down, he pinched her nipple while he played through the moisture between her legs.
Amelia braced both hands beside his head and pushed herself up. She saw his eyes darkened to black, and a flush of heat prickled her skin.
"What's my surprise?"
"It wouldn't be a surprise if I told you," Harry chuckled.
Amelia tilted her pelvis, and Harry's finger slid inside of her, soon joined by a second. Rolling her hips, she forced herself down on his hand, but it wasn't enough. She needed to be filled, to be loved, to take him deeply within and watch him writhe beneath her. Bending her knees under her again, she reared up over him, positioned his erection, and slid down until he was sheathed inside her.
Harry grabbed her hips and held her down, savouring the delicious torture of that first entry. He knew she wanted it rough when she clenched her inner muscles and squeezed until he grimaced. When she released, his neck arched and he bucked upward.
Amelia remembered that it was harder for him to come with her on top. Taking advantage of that, she slowly rotated her hips, teasing and toying with him in a way she couldn't do when he had control. Most of the time, she didn't mind him leading when they made love. A generous and skilled lover, he usually had her begging to be taken, her sex slick and tight from her orgasms, before he entered her. By that time, toying with him was far from her mind, wanting only to wrap her limbs around his body while he drove into her with forceful strokes.
This time, the power was hers, and she intended to torture him with pleasure. She leaned forward and raked her teeth over his neck, then suckled his ear lobe in the way that made chills race down his arms. When he hissed through his teeth and his hands tightened, she licked him and blew cool air across his neck and ear. He pushed his shaft farther into her, but she didn't give him what he wanted. Not yet.
Instead, she sat up again and held onto his shoulder with one hand while the other snaked its way down her breast and stomach to where they were joined. She circled her clit with a fingertip, and his green eyes glittered as he watched.
"Ah, Merlin. You know that drives me crazy, Amelia." He tried using his hold to move her up and down, but she clamped her knees tightly around him.
"I know," she husked.
His groan sounded more like a plea, even as he tilted his head to better see her touching herself. Her thighs twitched, and as her climax built, she started to ride him. Slow at first, she raised and lowered herself over his length, her eyes closing as she increased the tempo. Her fingers dug into his shoulder, and she leaned back slightly until the thick steel of his manhood pressed against her g-spot. Opening her eyes again, she saw him watching where they were joined, his shaft glistening with her oils as she rode him, driving herself toward release with her own hand.
Harry anchored his feet as best he could and thrust into her, waiting for that moment when she would still with muscles tightened. Her head tilted forward and her spine curved with the clenching of her stomach. The rigour grabbed hold except for her fingertips working the bundle of nerves to drive her over the edge. He pinched and rolled her nipples, and the pleasure ripped through her senses.
Her wet heat spasmed around him and she came hard, her juices trickling between his legs. He gritted his teeth and held still in her tight sheath. Finally, her inner walls loosened and Amelia fell forward onto her elbows against his chest.
Gripping her hips again, Harry plunged into her. His powerful legs flexed with each thrust, and the strength of his arms pushed her down onto him. With her teeth and tongue scraping over his neck, collar bone, and chest, he was quickly losing control of his own orgasm.
Amelia felt him swell inside her and spread her knees, taking him deeper. His thumbs bruised the hollows of her hips, but to her, the feeling was delicious. She loved making him lose control, and revelled in his male strength. She matched his erratic bucking, knowing his signs as well as he knew hers, and recognising that instant when he reached his peak. His body rose up, and he pushed her down and back on his straining length. A single, whispered "yes" from her triggered a primal yell of release. He pumped his seed into her, writhing and jerking, his hands sliding up her sides to hold on. With a groan and one last push, he collapsed onto the bed.
Amelia trailed her fingernails down his arms and over his chest, raking his hard nipples before retracing the lines on his skin. He shuddered once, and again, then wrapped his arms around her and pulled her to him. They rested together in their embrace, comfortable in the silence, certain that no words could express their feelings.
** END OF LEMON **
When his breathing finally slowed to a normal rate, Harry kissed the top of Amelia's head, his lips lingering against her hair for a moment before he suddenly flipped her off him, making her squeal in surprise. He was out of bed in an instant, already stretching with a satisfied grin.
"I'm going to take a shower," he announced, grabbing his wand from the nightstand. "Then I'll take the kids down for breakfast. Pack a bag for a week at the beach. We leave in two hours."
Amelia blinked at him, stunned. "Excuse me? What?"
But before she could demand details, Harry darted into the bathroom with a mischievous laugh, shutting the door firmly behind him.
She sat there for a moment, gaping at the closed door, before a smile crept across her face. "Unbelievable," she muttered, shaking her head. Determined not to let him get away with surprising her like that, she followed him into the bathroom, catching him mid-shower with an arched eyebrow.
When they finally made it downstairs, the smell of eggs, toast, and fresh tea wafted through the dining room. Edgar and his wife, Elizabeth, were already seated at the table, their teacups in hand.
"Good morning, lovebirds," Edgar greeted knowingly, a sly smile playing on his lips. Amelia's cheeks flushed a deep pink, and she quickly busied herself pouring tea, while Harry smirked.
"Morning, Uncle Edgar!" Sirius called eagerly, bounding to the table with the other children close behind. His enthusiasm was palpable as he eyed the food spread. "What's for breakfast?"
"Help yourself, my boy," Edgar replied, gesturing to the platters of scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and buttery croissants.
The children dove in, filling their plates with enthusiasm. Meanwhile, Harry pulled out Amelia's chair with a gentlemanly flourish, pressing a soft kiss to her cheek as she sat down.
"You're really milking this, aren't you?" she muttered under her breath, though her lips twitched with amusement.
"Only because you deserve it," Harry replied smoothly, his voice low and teasing.
Edgar looked over his newspaper, a fond smile tugging at the corner of his lips as he watched the interaction.
"Are we leaving today, Daddy?"
"Yes, princess," he said, smiling warmly at her.
Amelia raised an eyebrow. "So everyone but me knew?"
Harry laughed. "Not everyone—I didn't tell your brother."
"Didn't tell me what?" Edgar chimed in, lowering his paper and looking mildly curious.
"That Amelia and I are taking the kids to France for a week before she starts her internship," Harry announced casually, leaning back in his chair as though it were the most normal thing in the world.
"France?" Elizabeth said, her eyes lighting up. "Oh, how lovely! Are you visiting the beaches or the cities?"
"Both," Harry said, shooting Amelia a grin. "Thought we'd start at the coast, relax for a bit, and then spend a couple of days exploring Paris before heading back."
Amelia blinked at him in surprise. "France," she repeated, as though tasting the word. "You're really full of surprises lately, aren't you?"
Harry shrugged, utterly unrepentant. "I try."
Edgar chuckled, leaning back in his chair and giving his sister a teasing look. "Your face lit up when he agreed to stay the night. I can only imagine how thrilled you are about a whole week together."
Amelia shot him a mock glare. "You don't have to point it out, Edgar."
Harry chuckled, his hand finding Amelia's under the table and giving it a squeeze. "You're not upset, are you?"
"Upset? No," she said, finally letting herself smile fully. "Surprised? Definitely. But I'm not complaining."
"That's the spirit," Harry said, leaning in to kiss her temple before turning his attention back to his breakfast.
Amelia watched him for a moment, a warmth spreading through her chest. "France," she murmured again, shaking her head in disbelief.
Edgar laughed. "You'd better get used to it, Amelia. That man's always got something up his sleeve."
"And thank Merlin for it," she said softly, her smile lingering as she began to eat.
O – o – o – o
When they arrived at their rented villa, the family was struck silent for a moment, taking in the elegance of the place. The villa was perched on a hill overlooking the sparkling azure sea, with white walls, arched windows, and a sprawling terrace shaded by lush greenery. The soft sea breeze carried the scent of salt and flowers, and the sound of waves crashing against the shore was a soothing backdrop.
Harry nodded in approval, a small smile tugging at his lips. "This will do."
Edgar, the ever-enthusiastic child, bounced on his toes. "Can we go down to the beach?"
"Sure, let's go," Harry replied, grabbing a stack of brightly coloured towels.
The children cheered and dashed toward the path leading to the beach. Harry followed them, their excitement infectious. As they splashed in the waves and laughed with abandon, Amelia hung back for a moment, laying the towels out on the loungers.
Harry's attention was immediately drawn to her as she reached for the hem of her dress, pulling it over her head to reveal a sleek, form-fitting bikini. She smirked knowingly when she caught him staring, her confidence only growing as she walked gracefully toward the water.
"Careful, Harry," she teased as she passed him. "You're drooling."
Harry chuckled, shaking his head. "Can't blame me, can you?"
The family spent hours playing in the sun. They splashed each other in the shallows, built lopsided sandcastles with seashell accents, and chased one another along the beach until their energy was spent.
By the time they made it back to the villa, the sun was high in the sky, and everyone was ravenous. They enjoyed a light lunch of fresh baguettes, cheeses, and fruits on the terrace, the sea breeze keeping them cool as they laughed and recounted their favourite moments from the morning.
The next day, Harry and Amelia took the children to explore the nearby village, a quaint and colourful place bustling with local vendors, street performers, and the smell of delicious pastries wafting from the bakeries. The children were delighted, their eyes wide with wonder as they explored the cobbled streets.
Later, they visited a Muggle theme park. The flashing lights, thrilling rides, and cotton candy left the children utterly mesmerised. Even Harry and Amelia found themselves swept up in the fun, laughing like teenagers as they raced bumper cars and screamed on roller coasters.
That night, back at the villa, the children were asleep in their rooms, exhausted from the day's adventures. Harry and Amelia lay in bed, the soft moonlight spilling through the open windows. Amelia's fingers lazily traced patterns across Harry's chest as they reminisced.
"It's beautiful here," Amelia murmured. "It reminds me a little of the Potter Villa."
Harry smiled at the memory. "Hmm, yes. We had so many wonderful moments there."
"Like our wedding night," Amelia said, her cheeks tinged pink.
Harry chuckled, leaning down to kiss her forehead. "That was a great night. I'm pretty sure that's when we conceived the twins. On the beach, under the moonlight. It was perfect."
"It was," she agreed, her voice soft with affection.
Harry tilted his head, watching her thoughtfully. "What do you want this time? For your wedding? Another midnight ceremony in the Great Hall?"
Amelia chuckled, her eyes sparkling. "I wouldn't mind. But maybe it would be nice to invite a few more people this time."
"I agree."
She shifted closer to him, propping herself up on one elbow. "What about something at the manor? Or—oh!" Her eyes lit up. "We could find a villa of our own here and have our wedding on the beach."
"A destination wedding," Harry said, his smile widening as he considered it. "I'm liking the sound of that. We could make it a weekend-long affair. Then we'll send the kids back with Edgar and enjoy an extra few days here. Just the two of us."
Amelia's excitement was evident as she nodded. "Sounds perfect."
Harry brushed a strand of hair away from her face, his expression tender. "When do you want to do it?"
"Well," she began thoughtfully, "you go back to Hogwarts in September. So we either do it before the end of the summer or wait until Yule."
"Yule would give us more time to plan, but—"
"I'm not sure I want to wait that long," they said at the same time, grinning as their words overlapped.
"Jinx," Amelia declared, pinching him playfully.
"Oi," Harry protested, grabbing her wrists and flipping her onto her back. He hovered over her with a mock glare before leaning down to kiss her passionately.
"How about tomorrow," he murmured against her lips, "we look around and see if we can find something suitable? Then we'll go from there."
Amelia smiled, pulling him back down for another kiss. "Deal."
The next morning, Harry and Amelia woke to the gentle sound of waves breaking against the shore. The sunlight streamed through the villa's sheer curtains, casting a golden glow across the room. After a leisurely breakfast with the children on the terrace, Harry caught Amelia's hand.
"Ready to find our dream villa?" he asked, his emerald eyes sparkling with excitement.
Amelia smiled, her fingers curling around his. "Let's do it."
They left the children with Edgar and his wife, who were more than happy to entertain them with a day of swimming and games. Harry and Amelia set off hand-in-hand to explore the coastline with the help of a local wizarding estate agent.
Their first stop was a sprawling villa perched on a cliffside. It had breathtaking views of the sea and a massive infinity pool. While it was undeniably luxurious, Amelia wrinkled her nose as they walked through the cold, overly modern interior.
"It feels... sterile," she said, running her fingers along the sleek white countertop in the kitchen.
Harry nodded. "It's impressive, but it doesn't feel like home."
The next villa was charming, with rustic stone walls and vibrant flower boxes on every window. The courtyard had a fountain, and the smell of lavender filled the air. However, the rooms were small and cramped, and Harry hit his head on a low wooden beam in one of the hallways.
"Merlin's beard, I'd need a permanent cushioning charm on my skull," he joked, rubbing his head as Amelia stifled a laugh.
By mid-afternoon, they had toured three more properties, none of which felt right. Amelia's energy began to wane, and Harry placed a comforting arm around her shoulders.
"We'll find it," he assured her. "Let's try one more."
Their final stop was a villa tucked away behind a wine orchard. As they approached, the scent of citrus and sea air filled their lungs. The villa had an elegant yet inviting feel, with soft yellow stone walls, arched doorways, and terracotta roof tiles.
"This one has promise," Amelia said, her tone cautious but hopeful.
When they stepped inside, the house opened into a grand yet cozy living room with high wooden beams and large windows that flooded the space with natural light.
The kitchen was spacious and warm, with a stone hearth and plenty of room for family meals. Harry could already imagine Eddie, Lily and Sirius sitting at the long farmhouse table, chattering away as they ate.
The villa had five bedrooms, each with its own unique charm. The master suite boasted French doors that opened onto a private terrace overlooking the ocean.
"What do you think?" Harry asked, watching Amelia closely as she wandered out onto the terrace.
Amelia took a deep breath, letting the gentle breeze ruffle her hair. She turned to him, her eyes shining. "It's perfect."
Harry stepped out beside her, sliding an arm around her waist. "This could be where we build our life together. Family holidays, summers by the sea, maybe even..." He trailed off, looking thoughtful.
"Maybe even our wedding?" Amelia finished for him with a grin.
"Exactly." He leaned down to kiss her, the salty breeze and the distant sound of waves creating the perfect backdrop.
By the time they returned to the estate agent's office, they had made their decision. Harry filled out the paperwork, and they shook hands with the agent, who promised to expedite the process.
"Congratulations on your new home," the agent said with a smile.
As they left, Amelia couldn't stop smiling. "I can't believe we just bought a villa."
Harry squeezed her hand. "It's ours now. Just think of all the memories we'll make there."
When they returned to the rented villa, the children ran to greet them. Edgar raised a curious brow.
"Well?" he asked, his tone teasing.
"We found it," Amelia said, her excitement bubbling over.
"Already?" Edgar's wife said in surprise. "That was quick!"
"When you know, you know," Harry replied, sharing a private smile with Amelia.
Later that evening, as the children slept and the stars twinkled above, Harry and Amelia sat on the terrace with glasses of wine.
"Our perfect villa," Amelia whispered, leaning her head against Harry's shoulder.
"Our perfect future," he murmured back, kissing the top of her head.
On the fourth morning of their holiday, Harry's suggestion to visit Paris came as a welcome surprise. After a leisurely breakfast on the terrace, he casually announced, "What do you say we head to Paris today? See the sights, enjoy the city."
Amelia smiled. "That sounds wonderful. I've always wanted to go."
"Great. We'll leave in an hour."
True to his word, Harry had them in Paris by mid-morning. Apparating just outside the Eiffel Tower, the family was greeted with the breathtaking view of the iconic landmark. Amelia was taking it all in, marvelling at the beauty around her, when she suddenly heard familiar voices calling her name.
She turned to see Lily, Marlene, Narcissa, and even Professor McGonagall standing a short distance away, their faces lit with excitement.
"Harry, what's going on?" Amelia asked, narrowing her eyes suspiciously.
Harry grinned, leaning in close to whisper in her ear. "I assumed you'd need help finding a dress. Have fun," he murmured before slipping a small bottomless bag into her hand. "I love you."
"I love you too," Amelia replied, though she was still trying to process what was happening.
"Come along, Amelia," McGonagall said briskly, her tone warm but commanding. "We have a full day ahead of us."
Amelia barely had time to react before the women whisked her away. Behind her, Harry turned to the children.
"Alright, kids," he said with a smile. "Let's see Paris."
"Bye, Mama!" the children called out, waving enthusiastically as they followed their father into the city.
Amelia's initial nervousness faded as they entered the first boutique. The room was a luxurious blend of rich fabrics, ornate mirrors, and soft lighting, and the shop assistants greeted them warmly.
"We'll find you something perfect," Lily said with a grin, already flipping through a rack of gowns.
"And we'll make sure you enjoy every moment of this," Marlene added, pulling Amelia toward a display of lace and silk.
Narcissa, ever poised, gestured to a nearby assistant. "We'll need a selection of your finest wedding gowns. Something timeless, elegant, and enchanting."
McGonagall, who rarely indulged in such activities, smiled as she settled into a plush chair. "I'll supervise," she said dryly, though her eyes sparkled with amusement.
Over the next few hours, Amelia tried on gown after gown. Some were too extravagant, others too simple, but the process was filled with laughter and encouragement from her friends.
At one point, Lily and Marlene got into a heated debate about veils versus flower crowns, with Narcissa stepping in to mediate. "It's her wedding, not a Quidditch match," she said with a smirk, making everyone laugh.
Finally, Amelia stepped out of the dressing room in a gown that made the entire room fall silent. It was a flowing creation of soft ivory silk with delicate lace details and an elegant train. The bodice hugged her perfectly, and the neckline framed her collarbone in a way that was both modest and alluring.
Lily's eyes filled with tears. "That's the one."
Marlene nodded, beaming. "You look like a queen."
Even Narcissa, who was rarely at a loss for words, simply smiled and said, "It's exquisite."
McGonagall stood and adjusted her glasses. "You'll take his breath away," she said warmly.
Amelia turned to the mirror, her own breath catching as she saw herself. For the first time, she could fully envision her wedding day—and it was perfect.
After they purchased the gown, the group spent the rest of the day exploring Paris. They enjoyed pastries at a charming café, strolled along the Seine, and even stopped to admire the artwork at a small gallery.
As the sun began to set, Amelia found herself walking hand-in-hand with Narcissa while the others chatted ahead.
"Thank you for coming," Amelia said softly.
Narcissa gave her a rare, genuine smile. "It was a pleasure. You've made Harry happier than I've ever seen him. He deserves that—and so do you."
By the time they reunited with Harry and the children, the city was illuminated with golden lights. Harry greeted Amelia with a warm smile, his eyes lighting up when he saw the happiness on her face.
"Have fun?" he asked.
"It was wonderful," Amelia replied, leaning up to kiss him softly.
"Did you find the dress?"
"I did," she said, her smile secretive.
Harry chuckled, wrapping an arm around her waist as they began walking back to the apparation point. "Good. Now all that's left is to make you Lady Blackwood."
Amelia laughed, resting her head on his shoulder. "And I can't wait."