A Not So Simple Kind of Life

CHAPTER THREE

NEGOTIATIONS

Draco sat at the boardroom table pretending to listen to the company news of the last two weeks. Lucius had insisted on having this extraordinary meeting of department heads so the employees could become accustomed to reporting to him rather than his father. It was boring to say the least. His mind kept drifting to the stack of correspondence on his desk yet to be attended to and the contracts he had to check before leaving for the day.

One of the enormous doors cracked open a fraction and Draco's secretary peered through the small gap. The woman's eyes flicked nervously between Draco and Lucius.

"What is it?" Lucius snapped.

"Sorry for the intrusion, Mr. Malfoy, but there's a house elf in young Mr. Malfoy's office." The woman cast a pleading glance in Draco's direction. "It appears to be quite agitated."

"I'll see what this is about," Draco said quietly. He knew his secretary wouldn't have dared to earn the wrath of Lucius if it wasn't important.

"If you must," Lucius snarled in a low voice.

Draco exited the boardroom quickly. He could see Millie cowering beside his secretary's desk. In the short distance between the boardroom doors and his outer office, many reasons for the servant's presence in the office spun through his mind. He hoped none of his thoughts turned out to be true.

"Millie, why are you here?"

"Master, Millie is most upset. Mistress and Old Mistress is not happy with each other."

Draco's blood ran cold. He turned to his secretary. "If my father asks, tell him I've had to return home."

"Yes, sir." By the time the woman uttered the last word she was speaking to an empty room, her boss had Disapparated.

Draco arrived in the foyer of the manor with Millie right beside him.

"Where are they?"

"They was in the solarium when Millie went for Master."

Draco hurried in the direction of the solarium. His mother must have been watering the plants in the room, a chore she rather enjoyed most mornings, when whatever had gone wrong went wrong. As he neared the doorway he could hear Ginny's angry voice with growing clarity. The domed ceiling of the room gave it wonderful acoustic qualities, so all but the quietest conversations were broadcast into the corridor.

"I don't care, Narcissa. She's my daughter and I said she couldn't have that dress."

"It's only one little dress," Narcissa countered haughtily.

"One little dress she destroyed a store for! How the bloody hell am I supposed to teach her to behave, if you buy her whatever she wants despite what I say?"

"You're over-reacting."

"I'm not! I'll tell you one last time--When I say no I mean no!"

"Honestly I fail--"

"Mother!" Draco said strongly, cutting his mother off effectively.

Narcissa rushed towards her son. "Draco, darling, Ginevra said--"

"Mother, I'm fully aware of why Ginny is upset," Draco told her gently, but firmly.

Narcissa stepped back, putting some distance between herself and Draco, upon seeing his expression. "You agree with her."

"Yes," Draco almost whispered. It pained him greatly to see the look of betrayal on his mother's porcelain features.

Ginny had opened her mouth to tell her mother-in-law that it didn't matter what Draco agreed with, this was her decision, her rules. She snapped it shut when she heard Draco's response.

Narcissa lifted her chin high. "Where is your father?"

"He's still at the office. He doesn't know what's going on."

"How did you find out?"

"Millie -- she was worried about the tone of your discussion."

Narcissa's blue eyes narrowed venomously. "She did not have permission to leave the house!"

"Thank goodness she did."

"She needs to be punished."

"That is my decision, Mother," Draco reminded her firmly. He had no doubt his father would have punished the servant if it were still his decision.

Narcissa seemed to be at a loss for a moment or two, so Draco took advantage of the break to cast his gaze to his wife.

The fire that had been in her eyes when he first entered the room had all but extinguished. Her posture was still stiff, so her temper remained dangerous, but she was silent.

"Ginevra, explain to Mother what your expectations are concerning such purchases -- reasonably." Draco turned to Narcissa. "Mother, you will listen without interrupting and you will respect our decision without question."

Ginny waited until Draco looked at her again and nodded. "When I say the children can't have something I mean it. I do not appreciate finding the dress or toy or whatever weeks later in their rooms. You know I'm opposed to them receiving everything they want just for the sake of it and I would appreciate being consulted before anything is bought."

The silence in the room was deafening for a moment.

"Mother?"

Narcissa sniffed affectedly. "Very well."

"Good, we'll leave you to your day then." Draco moved to kiss his mother's cheek, but Narcissa stepped away from him. "Ginny, I'll walk you back to our wing."

Ginny had no choice but to leave the room with her husband; Draco had a firm grip on her arm and his other hand was applying pressure to the small of her back. They walked in silence. Ginny was almost ashamed of her conduct. She'd gone to Narcissa this morning with full intentions of discussing the situation and her expectations amicably. However, the conversation had deteriorated quickly and she had found herself shrieking at her mother-in-law. Just as the couple reached the foyer, Lucius Apparated close to the front doors looking somewhat goaded.

"Ginny, go upstairs. I'll meet you in our chambers soon."

"But I--"

"Now, Ginevra."

She sighed loudly and ascended the stairs. There really was no point in arguing with him, at least not when he used that tone. Besides it was unlikely they'd say or do anything if she didn't go upstairs.

"Care to explain what's going on?" Lucius asked when Ginny was well out of sight.

Draco filled his father in on as much as he knew of the morning drama. As he spoke his father's expression darkened to a dangerous level.

"Your mother?"

"I left her in the solarium. She's all right."

"I hardly see how. Your mother is not accustomed to dealing with--"

"Mother is more than capable of fighting her own battles, Father, and you know it. When I arrived she hadn't conceded an inch."

"That's not really the point."

Draco sighed heavily. His father was right. Ginny shouldn't have spoken to his mother like that, no matter how right she thought she was at the time. "I know."

"Where were the children when all this was happening?"

"No idea. They weren't in the room."

"At least they didn't bare witness to the... the foolishness."

"Father, Ginny has a valid point. From what I heard, Angel all but destroyed the bridal shop, because Ginny wouldn't buy that dress for her. In Ginny's opinion, Angel doesn't deserve the dress."

"And your opinion?"

"I agree with Ginny."

"I see."

"I'm going to head up and try to calm Ginny down. Maybe then I can convince her to apologise."

"Apologise?"

"I may agree with her view on the issue, but her method of getting her point across left a lot to be desired."

"Ah." For the first time Lucius really examined his son's expression. Draco was torn. He'd spent twenty-five years defending his mother and now his wife had taken up residence in an opposing camp, the man obviously didn't know which way to turn.

"Perhaps you could get mother to see reason," Draco continued hopefully.

"I doubt it, but I will try."

"Thank you."

Lucius watched his son climb the staircase. Draco's shoulders were slumped and his movement slow. It was as if he didn't want to confront his wife. Lucius didn't blame him; it was not going to be a pleasant morning. Lucius set off for the solarium at a measured pace. He was in no hurry to confront his own wife either.

He found Narcissa in the far corner of the glass room. She was staring out across the property, seemingly lost in thought.

"Cissa?"

"Oh, Lucius, it was only one little dress," Narcissa whispered as she flew to his welcoming arms, her blue eyes welling with tears.

"I know, dearest." Lucius stroked her back soothingly. "I know."

"If Ginevra could have seen how Angelique's face lit up when I gave it to her, she would understand."

"I doubt that greatly," Lucius muttered under his breath.

"And Draco -- he agreed with her."

"Our son is torn, Cissa. On one hand there is you, who he has protected his entire life, and on the other there is his wife. A woman he vowed to protect just two weeks ago. It is a difficult situation for him."

"I hadn't realized," Narcissa whispered against her husband's chest.

"Do not worry yourself over something so trivial."

"But it is distressing Draco."

"It is something every man must work through himself. Do you remember the first time you had a disagreement with my mother?"

Narcissa refused to meet her husband's eyes. The first time she had dared to disagree with Lucius' mother over something she now considered trivial the spat had almost escalated into all out war.

"Perhaps you could show Ginevra the understanding my mother found so difficult to afford you," Lucius suggested gently. "Be the better woman."

She nodded slightly against his chest. Her own mother-in-law had treated her dreadfully for sometime over a simple change in the cleaning schedule. It had made the first few months of her marriage incredibly difficult. The memory of how horrid that time was for her gave Narcissa the strength to firmly decide she wouldn't allow this to come between Ginevra and herself. "I will apologise."

"Draco will be pleased."

"Not only for his sake," Narcissa responded firmly. "I remember what it was like-- New mistress of the manor and at odds with the one person who can truly be of assistance. I'll go and make my apologies now."

"Draco is talking to Ginevra at the moment. Perhaps you should wait just a little while before intruding." Lucius wasn't certain his son would not be feeling his wife's wrath, especially after dismissing her in the foyer.

"Of course, they need their privacy," Narcissa agreed.

"Perhaps a cup of tea while we're waiting?"

"Of course, darling. Would you care for some pastries as well?"

"That would be lovely."

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As Draco approached the master suite, his sense of dread increased. He knew resolution of the situation rested on his shoulders and it could get very messy if he made the slightest error.

Ginny was waiting for him on the balcony. Her back was stiff and her grasp on the railing was tight enough to turn her knuckles white. Not good signs for Draco.

"Where are the children?"

"Playroom," Ginny responded flatly without turning around.

"Good." If the twins were in their playroom, it meant they'd not overheard anything. "Do you want to tell me what happened?"

"I went to talk to your mother about the dress she bought for Angel."

"That part I guessed."

"She refused to see what she did was wrong. She kept telling me it was only a dress and I was overreacting."

"Gin, you have to remember mother doesn't see things the way you do."

"That's irrelevant! I made a decision concerning our daughter and she deliberately disregarded it."

"All right, I know and I don't disagree with you."

"But?"

"But the way you spoke to her wasn't very constructive, was it?"

"It didn't start out like that. I just got so frustrated when she wouldn't admit she was wrong this time."

Draco nodded thoughtfully. "There's a method for getting mother to see things the way you want her to without causing an argument. Father is far better at it than I could hope to be, mostly because I get frustrated like you and end up losing my temper."

"I'm sorry, I didn't mean for this to get so messy."

"It's not me you need to apologise to."

"You can't be serious!"

He took a deep breath. This is where negotiations became dangerous. The next words that fell from his mouth could endanger his comfortable life if he didn't gain her understanding of his position immediately. "Not only am I serious -- I insist. She's my mother. I heard the way you were shrieking at her and I know if I spoke to your mother in the same way, I'd be expected to apologise after I'd recovered from whatever punishment your brothers put me through."

"My mother would never do something like this."

"It's not about what she did. It's about how you dealt with the situation."

Ginny folded her arms stubbornly and glared at the space to the right of her husband's shoulder.

"Gin, I agree with you about the dress. Angel doesn't deserve what she wants when she behaves poorly." He moved forward and ran his hands down her arms in what he hoped would be a calming manner. "But I don't agree with how you dealt with the situation. Mother deserves the same respect from you as you expect me to pay your mother."

"I know and I'm sorry."

"It's nothing that can't be fixed with some well placed words."

"All right, I'll apologise," Ginny muttered begrudgingly. She knew she hadn't been wrong in what she said, even if the delivery could have done with a little work.

"Thank you."

"I may as well do it now." Ginny moved to step out of Draco's hands, but he wouldn't allow her to pull away.

"I love you," he uttered.

"I love you, too."

"If you calmly explain to mother why Angel shouldn't have received the dress without actually laying blame she might just see your point of view."

Ginny looked at her husband as if he'd taken leave of his senses. How on earth could she explain why this is so wrong without mentioning that Narcissa was at fault?

"It's not that hard," Draco continued. "Just focus on Angel, her behavior that day, and your reasons as to why she shouldn't receive any gifts as a result. The specific dress or the fact that mother bought doesn't have to be mentioned."

Uncharitable thoughts began roaming through Ginny's mind; it was no wonder her mother-in-law had trouble with the real world. Draco and Lucius shielded her from it completely. Even though there was no doubt in Ginny's mind that Narcissa could take whatever she dished out and return twice as much--she'd been doing fine until Draco showed up--she found herself nodding her acquiescence.

Draco kissed her forehead gently. "It'll work out. Mother will respect your decision and we won't have anymore problems."

Ginny found herself having to bite the inside of her mouth to keep from laughing. If Draco thought they were going to sail through cohabitation with his parents and not have any further problems he was delusional. She was under no illusion that there wouldn't be problems from time to time -- it was how they dealt with them that was most important.

"Shall we see if Mother is still in the solarium?"

"We may as well," Ginny agreed. She knew Draco wouldn't return to work until he was sure all was peaceful at home.

Draco threaded his arm around her waist and led her back to the solarium. He whispered words of encouragement all the way, to which Ginny barely acknowledged. She knew he'd take her silence as a sign of nerves, but it wasn't the case. She simply didn't know how to respond without telling him to shut up. When they'd almost reached the doorway of the glass room, Draco stopped.

"Wait here a moment. I'll just make sure it's safe to enter."

"All right," Ginny murmured as her husband continued into the room alone.

Within seconds Draco was back at the doorway, beckoning her to come forward. Ginny took a deep breath, held her head a little higher and walked into the room.

Lucius and Narcissa were having morning tea at the intimate table in the far corner. Apart from a guarded expression in Narcissa's eyes, it was as if nothing had happened. The older witch smiled pleasantly enough and offered Ginny Lucius' now vacant chair.

"Thank you," Ginny mumbled as she took the offered chair.

Draco conjured two chairs and the men joined the women at the table. Without bothering to ask, Narcissa poured tea for the younger couple. Apart from the occasional chink of china all was silent. The atmosphere was becoming tenser by the second. Ginny couldn't think of anything to say, apart from blurting her apology to break the silence. Just as she placed her cup back on its saucer, Draco cleared his throat loudly. It startled her enough to cause her to lose her grip on the cup.

"Sorry," Ginny said quickly as she reached forward to right the teacup and mop up the mess.

"Quite all right," Narcissa responded tightly. "Leave the mess, the servants will take care of the menial duties."

Ginny drew away from the table, her hands falling into her lap. She watched as a servant appeared and charmed away the spilt tea. Once the table was clean again, Narcissa refreshed Ginny's tea.

More for something to do, Ginny reached forward to pick the cup up again. She stopped before her fingers closed around the delicate handle and sat back in her chair, her hands falling back into her lap.

"Is everything all right, Ginevra?" Narcissa enquired curiously.

"Yes--no. I--err--I owe you an apology. The way I spoke to you earlier was rude and I'm sorry."

Narcissa smiled condescendingly and reached to pat Ginny's hand. "Your apology is accepted, dear."

"Ginny, there was more you wanted to say, wasn't there?" Draco prompted.

"Umm--yes. I--" Ginny stopped abruptly as her train of thought completely vanished on her. She knew what she needed to say, but finding the right words was more difficult than it should have been. An uncomfortable silence once again filled the room.

"What Ginny was trying to say is this is about Angel," Draco started after sometime. He could see his wife struggling to find the right words to open and couldn't leave her to flounder any longer. "Mother, you must agree Angel's behavior was deplorable that day and Ginny has always punished such behavior, so she will learn from her errors, hopefully never to make the same mistake again. What concerns Ginny most is that now you've proven yourself to be a soft target, Angel is likely to conduct herself in an unladylike fashion to secure everything she wants from you. In short, Angel is not above taking advantage of your generous nature."

"I see," Narcissa said lightly. "What you must realize is Angel, and Drake for that matter, have no reason to act in a less than desirable manner for me just to obtain some material possession. I'm more than happy to buy them whatever their hearts desire."

"We're well aware of that, but in doing so it makes it most difficult for the person who does say no to them."

"Why would anyone deny the children?"

"Not everyone has Galleons to waste," Ginny mumbled.

"Ginny has a point. Not everyone is as lucky as we are."

"Very well, I will endeavor to curb my shopping."

"Thank you," Ginny smiled uncomfortably across the small table.

"Now that we have an understanding, perhaps we can close the subject for good," Lucius suggested.

"There's one more thing," Ginny began uncertainly. "The dress -- I'd like it returned to the store."

"Quite impossible! You see Angel wore it to a garden party while you were away." The lie rolled off of Narcissa's tongue without so much as a hiccup. There was no way she would concede defeat entirely.

"Oh."

"Galor won't take it back," Narcissa reaffirmed. "Just this time why don't we let Angel keep the dress? It would be such a terrible waste if she couldn't and she does love it."

"Well I--"

"If only you could have see her face when I gave it to her, Ginevra. She lit up so brightly. I must admit seeing her so happy is very addicting."

"I like to see the children happy as well, but I don't compromise my values to satisfy my need to see them like that. It may be all right in the short term, but they don't learn to appreciate what they have, so in the end it's quite damaging." Ginny's words hung in the air for several minutes. She knew Narcissa just wanted to see the children happy and wouldn't deliberately damage their morals. "If you could just take the time to check with either Draco or myself before purchasing them anything."

"That sounds reasonable, Cissa," Lucius voiced evenly.

"Yes, of course." Narcissa smiled sweetly. "And what of the dress, Ginevra?"

"She's already worn it, so I guess she can keep it this time," Ginny agreed grudgingly. She had a feeling they'd be having this conversation time and again over the years.

"Thank you." Narcissa was positively buoyant. In her mind she had won this battle without question.

Pleased with the outcome, Lucius looked pointedly at his son. "Draco, I feel it's time we made our way back to the office."

"Yes, we should."

"Ginevra and I have a lot to accomplish today," Narcissa announced much to Ginny's surprise.

"What do you have planned, Mother?" Draco asked curiously.

"I need to take Ginevra through the household procedures."

"That would be wonderful. Thank you, Narcissa," Ginny responded guardedly.

"The servants have been instructed to continue as normal until you issue new instructions and the meals have been planned for the next fortnight, but you'll need to get a firm grasp on what is expected sooner rather than later."

"We should be getting back to the office," Lucius said as he stood.

Both men bid their respective wives goodbye with Draco paying a little more attention to Ginny's lips than Lucius did to Narcissa's. It took an impatient growl from Lucius to get his son to relinquish his new wife and allow them to get on their way.

As soon as Lucius and Draco were out of sight, Ginny turned her attention to her mother-in-law. "I should check on the children."

"Millie can check on them," Narcissa suggested strongly. "You really must allow the servants to do more for you. Now shall we move to my parlor, so I can take you through the household routines?"

"All right then," Ginny agreed reluctantly. The children would be wondering where she'd gotten to if she didn't put in an appearance soon.

On the walk to Narcissa's parlor, Ginny summoned Millie. She asked her to check on the twins and serve them some morning tea in the playroom.

Once the women reached Narcissa's private sanctuary, the blonde's attitude changed to one of utmost seriousness. She pulled several heavy ledgers from a concealed bookcase and placed them on her desk.

"You'll have to set up your own system for recording the activities in the house, but you're more than welcome to use mine as a guide."

"I didn't realize it was this involved," Ginny uttered. "I mean I know the house doesn't run itself, but this is a lot more than I expected."

"Organization is the key. Without it, you will be lost." Narcissa stroked the top ledger almost lovingly. "This is my meal planning book."

"Ginny took the heavy leather bound volume and opened the cover. Again she was surprised. The level of detail was quite unnerving. Before her was a diary page with six separate sections: breakfast, morning tea, lunch, afternoon tea, dinner, and supper. Each section was filled in to the last detail. Every person expected to be at the manor for the meal was listed, along with exactly what was to be served, right down to the wine for dinner.

"Of course the servants are capable of changing the menu or preparing more food for unexpected guests at a moments notice. They're very competent for imbecilic creatures."

Ginny nodded as she flicked through the pages. She noticed that even the meals Narcissa wasn't at home for were detailed for where she was dining. "Where can I get these books? They're perfect for the job, so there's no point in using anything else."

"I have a supply of unused books. You're most welcome to them. We have these printed specially, so you'll have to order more when you've used what I have left."

"Oh." It didn't surprise Ginny in the least. Narcissa would never use anything so plebian as an off the shelf book when she could have something made exactly to her specifications.

"I placed a large order just last year, so you won't have to worry about reordering for some time. I had thought I would be mistress of the manor for some years to come."

Ginny suddenly felt incredibly uncomfortable. She wasn't sure what her mother-in-law was trying to get at, but it sounded as though she hadn't been ready to relinquish the title. "I--err--"

"Oh dear," Narcissa exclaimed when she saw the expression on Ginny's face. "Don't misunderstand. I wasn't implying that I'm not happy Draco married. If fact, it's quite the opposite. I do enjoy having the children here and you know I never had a daughter."

Ginny blushed slightly. "Thank you."

Narcissa's blue eyes softened and she looked across the desk at her daughter-in-law in the same way she looked at her grandchildren. "Despite our occasional differences, I know we're going to become even closer."

"So do I." Ginny smiled warmly.

"Anyway back to the books. I ordered so many, because I truly believed he wouldn't get married for years and then he'd only take a wife out of duty to the family line. At the time he was changing women more often than his underwear. Of course all that changed the moment he found you."

"Well I'm glad you ordered so many."

"I'll have a servant deliver one to your parlor later. They're stored elsewhere in the house."

"I don't mind collecting it. Where are they stored?"

"Goodness, I have no idea. I just tell the house elves to put them away until I'm ready to use them."

"I might ask one of the servants then."

"Why on earth would you want to visit some storage area?"

"It's not the storage area or what's in it. I just want to familiarize myself with the house. We moved in six weeks ago and I'd still get lost if I took a different route to the front door."

Narcissa smiled understandingly. "Don't try to rush it, you'll just confuse yourself and that's more frustrating. I took my time and explored a little further every day. Now I know the entire house almost as well as I know my own reflection."

"I'd like to take my time, but I felt so useless when Drake disappeared. I need to find my way around as quickly as possible."

"You do realize knowing your way around won't banish that horrid helpless feeling if one of the children do lose their way in the house."

"I know, but at least I'd be able to look for them without getting lost myself."

"The servants can search for you and the ancestral portraits all have other frames throughout the house. There's nothing they don't see or hear. As mistress, you can now ask them questions. Mind you, they're not terribly polite and they don't always give direct answers, but in cases where a Malfoy child could be in danger they will cooperate."

"I'll remember that."

"Best we get back to business or the men will be home before we're finished."

"Yes."

"I always plan meals a month in advance. The house elves in the kitchen then advise what shopping is required and you'll need to authorize the purchases. If there are any changes, you're best to advise the kitchen at the earliest possible convenience, most especially if there are extras for a meal. You'll see that I also write our social engagements in there as well, just so I know not to plan a meal at that time or why I haven't planned a meal for that time."

"Will you do your own meal planning?"

"Goodness no. It is your duty to feed the occupants of the house."

"Oh."

Narcissa reached into one of her drawers. "I've made a list of our likes and dislikes to help you plan."

"Thank you," Ginny mumbled. The list was more akin to a book. How she was ever going to remember all of that was beyond her.

"I included Draco's preferences as well. With everything going on, I'm sure you haven't taken the time to notice what he does and doesn't eat."

"Umm--no, no I haven't." Ginny's mind was reeling.

"No matter. It's all in there. Now I will advise you of any social engagements Lucius and I have that will affect your planning. Of course, if we're entertaining at home I will advise you of the details and what I want served."

A small smile of relief crossed Ginny's face. At least she wouldn't be responsible for planning Narcissa's dinner parties.

"It's not that difficult once you get started."

"I'm sure it's not."

"Shall we move onto the cleaning?"

"Yes, let's do that."

Narcissa pushed another ledger across the desk towards Ginny. "This is my cleaning schedule."

Ginny placed the menu back on the desk and opened the cleaning schedule. Again diary-like pages were within the book.

"The family areas are cleaned every day, along with the kitchen, foyer and the parlors at the front of the house. All areas we don't use on a regular basis and can't be seen by any guests are cleaned at least once a year. If we're entertaining the rooms we will be using are cleaned the day of the event." Narcissa listed everything so quickly Ginny could hardly keep up. "It took me some time to develop the schedule I use and I find it works wonderfully, but you are free to change it to suit yourself."

Ginny nodded absently as she flicked through some of the entries in the book.

"If you are so inclined to make changes, may I suggest keeping them small for the time being; many changes at once will confuse the servants and lead to less than effective work from them."

"I'm sure the schedule is fine the way it is for now. I'll get my head around the menus first then tackle the cleaning, when I have more time."

"That's perfectly reasonable. I'll arrange for the details to be transferred into a book for you."

"Thank you."

"There are also many functions we are expected to attend each year and some we host. This last book is a social diary. Everything in here is cross-referenced in the menu planner and, depending on the event, the cleaning schedule."

"What type of functions do we host?"

"Most are dinner parties, but we do hold at least one ball a year--usually a Christmas Ball. Plus there are the special functions that come up periodically, such as your wedding."

Ginny's eyes widened and panic began to flood her mind. She wasn't ready to deal with a ball. "How long does it usually take to plan a ball?"

"I generally start no less than six months beforehand."

"Are we hosting a Christmas Ball this year?"

"Of course, we have so much to be thankful for this year."

Ginny couldn't contain the loud gasp that escaped her. She'd never planned a ball before and it was already June.

"Planning for the Christmas Ball begins next month."

"Next month?" She felt as though she should have started last Christmas.

"Yes, if we don't start then we'll never be ready in time." Narcissa could see panic beginning to cloud her daughter-in-law's eyes. "I'll be guiding you all the way, so you can learn from my experience. There's quite a bit involved with an event that size, but I've done it so many times now it hardly seems difficult at all."

Ginny visibly relaxed. "Thank you."

"You will become accustomed to planning these events," Narcissa assured her.

Narcissa considered her young successor for a few minutes. Her mind drifted back to the early days of her marriage. Even though she'd been raised in a privileged home the transition from daughter of a wealthy wizard to wife of a wealthy wizard had been difficult. Lucius' mother had not helped her to adjust and as a result, she'd made many mistakes. She decided she wouldn't subject Ginny to the same torture she had suffered. "I know how difficult it is to adjust, so until you feel confident enough to take on everything alone, I'll assist you where ever you need."

"Thank you."

"Think nothing of it. I'd rather help you than have everything fall in a heap."

"I don't even want to think about that happening."

"The repercussions wouldn't be pleasant."

The women talked for a while longer about the house and what was expected of the Mistress of the Manor. Ginny was still in a little shock. She had no idea running a house could be so involved. Before Ginny left Narcissa's study, the older woman reiterated her pledge to assist wherever she needed help and to have the servants deliver the books she would require for running the house. Narcissa also mentioned that she might take the children for a walk sometime after lunch, so Ginny could rest. The young wife didn't bother to mention that it was unlikely she'd rest, not with so much to be getting on with as far as the house was concerned.

Ginny's mind was still spinning when she entered the playroom. The twins were playing rowdily under Millie's watchful eyes.

Drake stopped what he was doing the moment he spied his mother. "Mummy! Mummy! Can we go outside? Millie won't let us!"

"Yes, sweetheart, we'll go outside for a while."

"Yay!" The little boy was bouncing with excitement.

"We'll go out through the parlor, so I can watch you from the patio."

With Drake running ahead of his mother and sister, they made their way into the sunny outdoors. Millie was placing a pot of tea on the table even before Ginny sat down.

"Drake, stay where I can see you," Ginny called as her son ran past the table and onto the lawn. "You to, Angel, don't wander away."

"Yes, Mummy," Angel replied, following her brother at a more sedate pace.

"Mistress would like tea now?" Millie asked.

"I can pour it myself, Millie."

"Millie will watch young Master and little Miss," the old servant uttered.

"Yes, thank you." Ginny smiled at the house elf. There was no way she'd be able to keep up with the twins once they started running around properly.

Ginny summoned the book she'd begun reading while they were away from her nightstand. She tried to lose herself in the steamy romance, but her mind insisted on wandering to the books Narcissa was having delivered to her parlor and what she had to do with them.

The sound of Drake playing garnered her attention briefly. The little boy was pretending he was on a broomstick and playing Quidditch. He was whooping through the air trying to emulate the sound of fast flight. When he "flew" too close to his sister she let loose a squeal and told him off in no uncertain terms. He had apparently upset her baby doll and she was now trying to calm the 'infant'. Ginny smiled softly when Angel, satisfied that her 'baby' was now calm, snorted with disgust at Drake and stalked off to the other side of the area they were playing in.

Millie had taken to Apparating between the children. It was the only way she could keep up with Drake. Her fussing that he should be careful not to injure himself was ignored entirely.

Ginny allowed her eyes to fall back to her book. She banished thoughts of the house and forced herself to concentrate on the words in front of her. Meals were planned for the next two weeks and the house elves would continue cleaning to Narcissa's schedule until she issued new instructions. There was no point in worrying herself sick about it yet -- she could try to convince herself anyway.

After a while, Ginny successfully found herself immersed in her trashy novel. She was almost disappointed when a servant appeared next to her, announcing lunch. Not wanting to leave the sunshine, Ginny silently debated whether she could have lunch on the patio. She decided to watch the house elf for its reaction and if it wasn't favorable she would change her mind. "We'll have lunch out here."

"Yes, Mistress." The servant vanished with a pop and no hint that her request was difficult.

"Drake, Angel, time to wash your hands for lunch."

The running around in the fresh air must have encouraged Drake's appetite to new levels, because the little boy didn't put up his usual argument about washing his hands and he was back at the table in minutes, eager to eat. Ginny constantly found herself getting in the way of the servants as they tried to serve them. She had to remind herself a few times to sit back down and not do their job for them. The twins had become quite accustomed to being waited on and sat back a little impatiently while the creatures served their meal.

The moment the children had finished eating they were back to playing. Angel had decided to run around with Drake, leaving her doll at the table. Ginny picked up her book again and immersed herself in the fictional world. It was so relaxing just sitting in the sunshine with the distant sounds of her children playing happily. With Millie flitting around the yard trying to keep up with the twins, Ginny could relax and not worry about them venturing too far.

Screams pierced the tranquility. Ginny's book fell to the ground as she jumped to her feet and ran in the direction of the wailing. Just behind a large tree, Angel lay sprawled on the grass, her little head craned upwards to facilitate her voice.

"Angel, sweetheart what happened?"

"I--I--" The little strawberry blonde hiccupped.

"Calm down. Take a deep breath and tell Mummy where it hurts."

"My--my knee."

"Okay, sit up and we'll have a look."

Angel whimpered pitifully as she turned herself over and sat up. There was a small graze on her left knee, but apart from that there didn't appear to be any other physical damage.

Ginny relaxed when she saw the minor abrasion, but her nerves were set on fire again as her daughter noticed the state of the pretty dress she was wearing. An earsplitting scream filled the air.

Millie hovered nearby, not wanting to intrude upon her mistress, but needing to be on hand in case she was wanted. Drake stood near the tree, his expression was fearful.

"Angel, you have to calm down."

"My--my--dress, my pretty dress." The little girl picked up the skirt of her dress and let it fall back to her lap. Dirt and grass stains covered the delicate fabric.

"It's nothing that can't be cleaned."

Millie ventured a bit closer. "Millie can clean for little Miss."

"Thank you, Millie." Ginny smiled at the old servant. She appeared to be genuinely distraught by Angel's plight. "See, Angel, your dress can be cleaned. Why don't we get you changed so Millie can clean your dress and we'll have a look at that knee as well?"

The little girl sniffed loudly and nodded. She allowed her mother to help her to stand. Drake quietly slipped up beside his sister and took her hand.

With Millie following behind, they slowly made their way upstairs to Angel's chambers. Ginny took Angel straight through to her private bathroom and lifted her onto the bench. The graze on her knee wasn't deep or even large, but it was dirty.

"All right, sweetheart, I have to clean your knee, so you're going to have to hold still for me."

Angel nodded gravely. Her big gray eyes were still brimming with fat tears.

Drake moved over and took her hand again. "It's okay, Angel, it won't hurt."

At the sight of her mother's wand Angel whimpered loudly.

Ginny didn't waste any time casting the cleansing charm for wounds. She knew if she hesitated nothing short of a body binding charm would keep Angel still enough to cast the charm.

Fat tears rolled down Angel's face and she whimpered loudly as the area heated up just a bit with her mother's magic. All the while, Drake held her hand and kept reassuring her that everything would be fine.

"There, all clean," Ginny announced. She wet a cloth at the sink and placed it over Angel's knee to soothe the area. "We'll just leave that on for a few minutes, then we'll get you changed."

Millie hovered anxiously in the doorway. This mistress was very different from her old mistress. If ever Draco had hurt himself as a young boy, Millie had tended his wounds. She was at a loss as to what she should do next. Her mistress was taking care of everything, but she might be needed so she was loath to move away.

"Does it feel better now?"

Angel nodded gently.

"Good. Let's get you changed." Ginny removed the cloth and lifted her daughter down.

On the way to her dressing room, Angel limped slightly, even though there was no need. A grazed knee didn't render the limb maimed, it just stung a bit, but Ginny didn't say anything to her. Drake guided his sister to a small vanity stool, so she could sit down while their mother chose a clean dress for her.

Ginny rifled through her daughter's closets quickly. As she did, she remembered she had to check Angel's old room for the play clothes Draco had noticed missing. With very little in the way of 'normal' day wear in the closet Ginny settled on a dress that was likely worth more than what she was wearing herself.

"Are you all right to dress yourself?"

"I think so," Angel responded miserably.

"Millie can help little Miss," the house elf offered in an almost excited tone.

"Thank you, Millie," Ginny answered. "I just have to check on something in Angel's old suite while I remember. If I'm not back by the time Angel is dressed, can you take the twins to the playroom?"

"As Mistress wishes."

"No going outside, Drake."

"Yes, Mummy." The little boy sighed heavily. He didn't understand why they couldn't play outside whenever they wanted. It hadn't been a problem at the Burrow, in fact, if anything they'd been encouraged to play in the yard.

"Don't look so miserable."

"Why can't we go outside again?"

"Because I'm not there to watch you."

"But you don't have to watch us."

"Yes I do."

"Never did at Grandma and Granddad's," Drake mumbled miserably.

"Drake, the yard at the Burrow is much smaller and it's fenced."

"We used to go into the field," Drake pointed out.

"I know, but there's nothing dangerous in that field. I used to play there."

"Nothing dangerous outside."

"The lake is too close and you don't know how to swim."

"But--"

"No buts, Drake, stay inside until I get down there." Ginny watched her son's face fall again. She knew he preferred to play outside, but with the lake so close, she didn't want to think about what could happen. "I'll talk to Daddy and see if we can't enclose an area somehow, so you can play outside whenever you want."

"Okay."

Safe in the knowledge that the children would remain indoors, Ginny made her way to the northern wing. She was wandered casually down the corridor where the twins' old rooms were located completely lost in thought and not really paying attention to her surroundings.

"Ginevra, were you looking for me?"

"Oh, Narcissa, I didn't see you there."

"Is everything all right?"

"Yes, everything is fine. I was just going to check Angel's old room. Some of her clothes are missing and I wondered if they'd been forgotten in the move."

"Oh dear, what outfits are missing?"

"Just some play clothes."

"How extraordinary."

"It is a bit odd, but they're probably still hanging in her old closet."

"More than likely," Narcissa agreed quickly. "I was just heading down to collect the children for a walk."

"They should just about be in the playroom with Millie. Drake will be very happy to see you. He's chapping at the bit to go outside again."

"I shouldn't keep him waiting then."

Ginny waited until Narcissa was out of sight before continuing on her way. Angel's old chambers were just as they had been, minus the personal touches. The dressing room had been completely cleaned out, not even a stray hair ribbon remained.

She wandered back to the southern wing slowly. The mystery of the missing clothes still nagged at her. With the children out of the house for now, Ginny decided to use this time to go through Narcissa's list and maybe begin planning a few meals. She entered her study and immediately felt at ease. It was possibly the only room in the house where she truly felt comfortable. Not that she was uncomfortable in their wing of the massive house, but she knew this room was hers exclusively and it made it all the more cozy.

As Narcissa had promised, the books had been delivered. They were sitting in the middle of her desk with the 'list' on the very top. There was also another box on the desk -- a gift by the look. When she sat down Millie appeared in front of the desk.

"Mistress would like tea?"

"Yes, thank you," Ginny answered distractedly as she tore the card from the gift.

It was from Draco. She untied the ribbon and lifted the lid. The box was full of fancy quills, a rainbow of different colored inks and there was also a gold paperweight in the shape of a rose.

"Your tea, Mistress."

Ginny had failed to notice Millie re-enter the room and place a tea tray on a small sideboard beside her desk. "Thank you."

"Would Mistress be wanting anything else?"

"No--Yes. There are some clothes missing from Angel's closets. Do you know what happened to them?"

"Old Mistress did tell Millie to dispose of some things from Miss Angel's rooms."

"What things?"

The house elf became quite agitated. "There was some dresses, pants and shirts."

"What condition were the clothes in?"

"They was old, Mistress, very old."

Ginny paused for a moment to remind herself that it wasn't Millie's fault, she was just following orders. "Thank you."

The aged servant spared no time in Disapparating. Her Mistress was angry again and she had no desire to find herself in the line of fire.

When Millie left, Ginny turned her attention back to the gift Draco had left for her. She set the quills up in the stand she found at bottom of the box and stowed the bottles of ink in her top drawer. She was fastidiously arranged her new accessories when she distinctly heard her name being called. There was no one in the doorway when her eyes roamed in that direction.

"Ginny!"

Her eyes flicked across the room. The voice was most definitely coming from within.

"Gin, in the fireplace."

"Oh, Draco, I didn't realize you'd had the Floo opened."

"I've only just had it done, so I thought I'd test it and let you know at the same time."

"Thank you. At least I can Floo mum now without having to walk to the other side of the house."

"You're welcome. How has your day been?"

"Let's see, after you left your mother explained how she runs the house, I took the children outside for a while, we had lunch on the patio, then the twins played until Angel fell over--"

"Is she all right?"

"Yes, she just grazed her knee, bruised her pride and just about had a conniption when she saw how dirty her dress had become."

"Where is she now?"

"Your mother has taken both of them for a walk."

"And what are you supposed to be doing?"

"That depends on who you talk to."

"Oh?"

"Your mother seem to think I need to nap, but I really need to get my head around everything that has to be done to keep the house running."

"Mother means well."

"I know. At least I can go through all of this in peace." Ginny sighed. "I found out what happened to Angel's missing clothes."

"Do I want to know?"

"Your mother told Millie to throw them out."

"Do I need to come home?"

"No."

"Are you sure?"

"Yes."

"Millie's not going to turn up in my office again, is she?"

"No, Draco. It's fine. I'm not even going to mention it to your mother."

Draco's disembodied head looked at his wife incredulously. After the scene this morning, he was certain Ginny wouldn't let this go without comment.

"The clothes were old; it's not worth the drama."

"All right," Draco responded cautiously.

"You said yourself yesterday; it's not worth getting upset over some second-hand clothes."

"So I did."

"Anyway I'll have to go shopping sometime this week so Angel has something other than formal clothes to wear."

"Maybe we could have lunch that day?"

"That would be nice."

"Did you find the surprise I left on your desk?"

"Oh yes! Thank you, I love it."

"Well you needed some quills," Draco replied nonchalantly.

"You spoil me."

"I like spoiling you." The way Draco's eyes darkened at that point indicated spoiling his wife wasn't all he liked to do. He quickly pushed aside the wicked thoughts and focused on more mundane things before the temptation to come home overrode his commonsense. "What do you have planned for the rest of the afternoon?"

"I was going to go through the household books... maybe plan a few meals."

"Do you have one for cleaning?"

"Yes, your mother keeps three books: meals, cleaning, and social events. Plus everything is cross referenced."

"Mother is organized if nothing else."

"I'll say."

"I want you to schedule a full house clean."

"The entire house?"

"Yes, the day Drake went missing I noticed how filthy some sections of the house are and I want it all clean."

"Every room gets cleaned at least once a year that's what Narcissa told me anyway."

Draco screwed his nose up in disapproval. "Once a year isn't often enough. See what you can do to rectify the situation."

"All right," Ginny agreed reluctantly. "But I wasn't going to mess with the cleaning schedule yet."

"Gin, it needs to be done. I don't know if Mother even realizes how bad the third floor gets. Once a year simply isn't enough," Draco responded resolutely.

"Okay, I'll have a look at the schedule."

"Thank you. What about meals?"

"They're planned for the next two weeks, so I want to get another month done if I can."

"Feel like hosting a few dinner parties?"

"Why?"

"I did promise your brother he could help me open that bottle of Odgen's and I'd like to get together with my friends, plus we should get the bridal party and their partners together to say thank you."

"Okay, so it that two or three dinner parties?"

"I'll leave it up to you, but I want Bill and his family on their own. If I open that bottle with too many blokes around we won't get to appreciate it properly."

"Okay, I'll Floo Fleur and see when they're available."

"Sounds good. I have to go, love. Father's been waiting to speak with me for a few minutes."

"All right, have a good afternoon and I'll see you tonight."

"You, too!"

"Don't be late."

"I won't."

"Love you."

"I love you, too, beautiful."

Draco's head vanished from the hearth immediately and Ginny was alone again. She picked up the social diary Narcissa had sent her and opened it to the current week. Narcissa had transferred all of the coming events into the diary for Ginny and she noticed that her in-laws would not be home this coming Saturday evening. It was a perfect opportunity to have Bill and Fleur over for dinner.

After a quick Floo call to Fleur to check if Saturday was convenient, Ginny checked the menu ledger for Saturday evening's meal plans. With a few additions, she had her Saturday evening dinner party planned in full. While it wouldn't be a formal affair, she did feel somewhat accomplished at having arranged everything with relative ease.

The afternoon flew past. Millie popped in with some afternoon tea for Ginny and informed her the children were partaking afternoon tea with Narcissa in the gardens. By the time the children came thundering into her parlor, Ginny had not only arranged dinner for Saturday evening, she'd drawn up a guest list for another dinner party, identified a number of possible dates and begun planning the menu. When Draco arrived home she'd check everything with him before making any final decisions. To add to her accomplished mood, she had also planned an additional week of meals for the family.

Rather than have the children playing in her parlor, Ginny took them down to their playroom. With luck Draco would be home soon and they'd be able to have an early family dinner then spend some time together tonight. She'd missed him today.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Draco Apparated into the foyer of his home. The servant who usually served his father greeted him.

"Why are you not at your usual post?" Draco asked as he dropped his cloak onto the creature.

"Millie is being very busy with the children, Master. Ippy has been told by Old Mistress to keep watch at the door."

"Very well. Where is my wife?"

"Mistress was in the playroom with the children."

"See that my brief case gets to my study." Draco strode off without waiting for the servant to respond. He wanted to say hello to his family and relax a little before dinner. It had been a long day.

Draco stood in the doorway of the playroom for a few moments, completely unnoticed by the occupants. The scene warmed him. Ginny was sitting between the twins reading from a large storybook. As he observed them silently he saw his son's gaze drift from the book, cross the room and land on him. The excited spark that lit up Drake's eyes the moment he saw his father just about pushed Draco's heart to bursting point.

"Daddy!" Drake bounded off the couch and ran to his father's waiting arms.

"Hello, mate. Did you have a good day?"

"Yep."

"Good." Draco put his son on his feet and scooped Angel into his arms. "How about you, Princess? Did you have a good day?"

"I fell over and hurt my knee." Angel lifted her leg higher to show off the almost non-existent wound.

Draco placed a quick kiss over the graze. "Does it feel better now?"

"Uh huh."

"Great." He gently lowered Angel back to the floor, so he could greet his wife. "Why don't you two go and wash your hands for dinner while I say hello to Mummy?"

"My hands are clean." Drake held his hands up for inspection. "See."

"You still have to wash them before we eat," Ginny countered gently.

"Don't see why, they're clean," Drake mumbled as he left the room with Angel.

Draco slipped his arms around Ginny and pulled her into his chest. He captured her lips in a deep kiss.

"Hello, love."

"Hello, did you have a good day?"

"Busy." Draco placed a fleeting kiss on her forehead. "I'm glad to be home."

"Are you hungry?"

"A bit. When's dinner?"

"At six o'clock."

"You've kept Mother's routine?"

"It works well for the twins, but we can eat earlier if you want."

"Six is fine. It gives me time to have a drink and unwind."

"What would you like?"

"Firewhisky would be good, but I'll take it in the parlor."

Ginny threaded her arm through Draco's and they walked to the parlor together. Draco moved straight to the concealed cabinet on the other side of the room and poured himself a generous amount of Firewhisky in a crystal tumbler. "Would you like anything, love?"

"No thanks."

Draco sat in 'his' large armchair and put his feet up on the plush ottoman in front of him. He patted the arm of the chair. "Come and join me, love."

"I should check on the twins."

"They'll be fine. Millie can see to them."

"But they might get lost."

"Going from here to their bathrooms?"

"They--"

"They'll be fine. Gin, they need to be able to wander around without us. You didn't escort them everywhere when you were living with your parents, did you?"

"Of course I didn't, but the Burrow would fit into the foyer with room to spare."

"They won't get lost. Remember they've lived here two weeks longer than you. They probably know their way around better than I do by now. Come and sit with me."

"All right." Ginny sighed and leaned back against the chair.

"Good girl."

"You look exhausted."

"I feel it," Draco admitted. "I knew it would be busy, but I wasn't prepared for hellish and I missed you."

"I missed you, too."

"The weekend can't come quick enough."

"Is it that bad?"

Draco nodded. "I don't want to talk about it now. Let's just relax for a few minutes."

"All right."

They sat in companionable silence, Draco sipping his Firewhisky while Ginny ran her hand through his hair. Within minutes the stress of the day slipped away and Draco relaxed. The thought that his day wasn't over yet kept trying to invade his mind, but he pushed it aside every time. He didn't want to think about the work he had been forced to bring home from the office yet.

"Mummy, can we have dinner now? I'm starving." Drake entered the parlor rubbing his tummy for effect.

"Yes, sweetheart."

The little boy turned around with a whoop of joy. "Angel, we can eat... go to the dining room."

"I suppose we should amble down to the dining room before your son fades away from lack of sustenance," Draco commented when Drake took off in the direction of the dining room.

"What makes you say he's my son?"

"A Malfoy would never announce his hunger so bluntly."

"Really?"

"Yes, we're far more refined."

"Well I suggest you prepare your sensibilities to be assaulted, because your son always announces his hunger that bluntly."

"Your son," Draco mumbled.

"Sorry, darling, you can't disown him."

They were in the doorway of the dining room and sitting at the head of the table, in his father's chair, was Drake. He looked every bit a Malfoy sitting in the large chair with an air of impatience about him.

"Just what do you think you're doing, Drake?" Draco looked at his son with amusement.

"Waiting for dinner, but the house elves won't give me any."

Draco held Ginny's chair out for her. "Why don't you try waiting in your own chair?"

"I decided I'm going to sit here."

"Really?" Draco asked as he lifted his son off the chair. "Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but this is my chair."

"Why?"

"I'm the head of the house, so I sit at the head of the table."

"When can I sit there?"

"Not until you get yourself a wife."

Drake's face screwed up in revulsion.

"Looks like you're sitting on the side of the table forever then," Draco commented casually as he made himself comfortable in his chair.

"Not getting married to no witch," Drake muttered disgustedly.

"I hope he holds onto that idea when he gets older," Ginny said wistfully.

Draco chuckled. He had no doubt Drake would out grow his aversion to witches in time, but he hoped his son would hold onto the 'not getting married' idea for a little longer.

The servants served dinner quickly and left the family alone. While they ate, the twins told Draco about their day. Just as dessert was served the animated chatter gave way to delighted squeals when Angel spied her grandparents. With no regard for table manners, Angel left the table and flew across the room to her grandfather.

"Grandfather, did you miss me?"

"I most certainly did."

Narcissa continued into the dining room, leaving Lucius and Angel near the doorway. She stopped abruptly about half way down the table. "The servants can hold dinner if you require time to dress, Ginevra."

"We've decided not to dress for dinner from now on," Ginny responded lightly.

The briefest flicker of shock filtered through Narcissa's blue eyes before she pinned her son with a piercing glare. "Draco?"

A sense of self-preservation caused Draco to hide his smirk behind his napkin before standing up to greet his mother. He had predicted her disgusted reaction the day before and her glare didn't surprise him in the least. "Mother?"

"Have you abandoned all your manners?"

"Of course not, Mother. We simply won't be dressing for dinner when we eat in our own dining room, because it's too time consuming to organize the twins and it's truly not necessary when it's just us."

"I suppose you'll be coming to breakfast in your nightwear as well," Narcissa snapped acerbically.

Draco grinned cheekily at his wife. "Only when we have it in bed."

"Narcissa, it's just doesn't make sense to change the twins for dinner when they have their bath straight after dinner and dress for bed," Ginny explained. "Special occasions are a different matter entirely, but when it's just family there's no need."

"When Draco was a boy, I would have him bathed before dinner," Narcissa informed her haughtily.

"It's an option, but I would be more inclined to have the children dress in their pajamas after their bath rather than clothes."

"Basic etiquette dictates--"

"Mother, it doesn't matter," Draco said in a low voice.

"But it does," Narcissa countered.

Lucius heard the distress in his wife's tone and wandered closer. "What is going on?"

"Oh, Lucius, don't you see how they're dressed," Narcissa whispered harshly. "No respect for common manners. Drake has had those clothes on all day!"

"Calm yourself, dearest. I'm certain there's a logical explanation."

Draco cleared his throat subtly to garner his father's attention. "We've decided not to dress for dinner when it's just family."

"I see. I presume you have a good reason for allowing this to occur?"

Ginny rolled her eyes ungraciously. In her opinion it didn't matter what the family wore to dinner. The only thing she worried about with the children was whether their hands were clean. "It's better for the children if we don't bother."

"How is it better? They need to learn basic etiquette," Narcissa said sharply.

"They also need to be able to relax and not worry if they spill something," Ginny countered quickly.

"Mother, this isn't open for discussion." Draco wasn't about to stand by idly and allow the situation to escalate, which he knew would happen if the women were allowed to continue. "Whenever we join you and father in your dining room for a meal, we will abide your wishes, but in our own dining room we will make our own rules."

"I was merely--"

"Would you care to join us for dessert?" Draco changed the subject, smoothly cutting his mother off.

"No thank you, we've eaten."

"A cup of tea then?" Draco held a chair out for Narcissa and when she had made herself comfortable, he resumed his position at the head of the table.

Lucius sat in the empty chair next to his wife. "I might just have one more slice of cherry pie."

"Lucius," Narcissa said with clear warning.

"One more slice will not harm me."

"Not usually, but considering you've already had two slices, I rather think a third would be harmful."

"They were small servings," Lucius countered as he reached for the pie on the table. "Ginevra, would you pass the cream please?"

"Here you are." Ginny flicked her wand at the large jug of cream and it floated down the table to side in front of Lucius.

"Thank you."

While her husband was busy voicing his thanks, Narcissa seized the jug and poured a small amount on his serve of pie then placed the jug out of his reach.

"Perhaps a little more, dearest?"

"You have more than enough," Narcissa replied in a tone that brokered no argument.

Lucius wasn't particularly happy, but he didn't argue the point. It simply wasn't worth the trouble it would cause him later. "I had thought you might have been detained at the office, Draco."

"I brought the files home. I'll see if I can't make some more progress tonight."

"Very well. If you require any assistance just let me know."

"I will."

The family finished their dessert with Draco, Lucius and the children filling the silence with conversation. Ginny and Narcissa barely acknowledged the conversation going on around them, let alone took part. Both were seething.

A short time after everyone had finished eating Ginny announced it was time for the twins' bath, much to her son's disgust. Lucius and Narcissa bid their grandchildren goodnight and excused themselves for the evening.

"I've got some work to finish, love, so I'll be in my study."

"You're not going to help?"

"Millie will help you." Draco kissed her cheek and strode off in the direction of his study. He missed the deadly glare that bore into his back until he was out of sight.

With no other choice, Ginny ushered the twins upstairs and into Angel's bathtub. She was furious at Draco and intended on letting him know all about it after the children were in bed. Why he had to bring work home on his first day back was beyond her. She had been looking forward to spending the evening with him, but it didn't seem as though that was going to be possible now.

Millie, as always, was close by in case Ginny needed her. The elderly servant had grown somewhat perceptive over her years of service. She was well aware of her mistress' dangerous demeanor and for that reason she stayed a reasonable distance from the irate witch.

When Ginny left the bathroom to get the twins' pajamas, Millie moved closer to the tub and gently encouraged the children to wash themselves. She could hear her mistress slamming drawers in Angel's dressing room and quickly cast a silencing charm so the children wouldn't have to hear their mother's displeasure.

Millie moved away from the tub the moment Ginny reappeared in the doorway. Ginny got the twins out of the bath, dried them and dressed them for bed. Millie once again looked on, ready to assist if needed, but keeping a safe distance from Ginny.

After reading two stories to the children, a fairy story for Angel and a dragon story for Drake, Ginny tucked them into bed. Despite their requests, she didn't allow them to visit their father to say goodnight. Her promises to have Draco come up and see them were met with more protests, but she didn't back down. If Draco couldn't leave his study for five minutes then he would miss out on kissing them goodnight.

Before going down to Draco's study, Ginny made certain Millie would stay close to the twins' rooms in case they needed anything in her absence. The old servant seemed almost grateful to be given the polite order.

She paused just outside the door to her husbands study to gather her thoughts. There were several matters she needed to discuss with Draco and if she lost her temper she knew she wouldn't receive reasonable answers to her questions. Without knocking, Ginny let herself into Draco's inner sanctum.

Draco looked up sharply at the disturbance. He wasn't overly happy to be troubled when he had so much work to do, but rather than give voice to his irritation at the intrusion or her failure to at least knock, Draco wisely kept his thoughts private. Given her expression, she had been quite obviously upset by something. With a mental sigh, he placed his quill on the desk and hoped it wouldn't take too long to put a smile on her face again, while she sat down on one of the visitors chairs opposite his desk.

"The twins are in bed."

"Good."

"They were asking after you."

"I'll check on them when I'm finished here."

Ginny bit back the nasty retort threatening to topple out of her mouth. "They'd like to see you before they fall asleep."

"Gin, I have to work. I'll check on them later." He knew the sight of her nostrils flaring wasn't terribly good for his health, but the fact that her hands were still in her lap and not reaching for her wand was comforting.

Again Ginny stopped herself from spitting something spiteful at him. "I invited Bill and Fleur for dinner this Saturday."

"Great. I think there's a game on the Wizarding Wireless, so we can relax and listen to that."

"Who?" Ginny frowned with confusion and briefly wondered if they were having the same discussion.

"Bill and I."

Ginny rolled her eyes. She didn't need to be told what would happen -- Bill and Draco would drink and listen to the game, while she and Fleur were stuck not only keeping the kids entertained, but quiet as well.

"Check what time the game starts and we'll eat around that."

"You can check what time the game starts and we'll eat when I say, not around a game of Quidditch. I am not your secretary." Ginny allowed her words to sink in for a moment before continuing. "Now the other dinner party... Here's the guest list I drew up, a suggested menu and our available dates. Add or change anything you want and choose a date."

Draco took the parchments from her and glanced over them very briefly. "They're fine."

"Really? You can tell that without reading them?"

"Gin, I don't have time for this."

"Well you're going to make time. I've never planned a dinner party before and as it was your idea you can at least give me your opinion."

"Okay, point taken. I'll take a look at them and get back to you tomorrow."

"Fine."

Draco put the parchments aside and picked up his quill ready to resume work. A not so subtle growl from the other side of the desk had him putting the quill back in its stand. "You're not finished yet, are you?"

"Not nearly."

"What else?"

"The twins need a safe area to play outside."

"There's nothing dangerous outside."

"The lake," Ginny suggested disdainfully.

"Tell them not to go near it."

Ginny glared at him scathingly. "Do you really think that will stop either one of them?"

"Well, it should."

"In theory, however, reality is an entirely different monster. The gardens are too big to just let them roam about without supervision as well."

"Millie can--" Draco stopped when her expression darkened further. "What would you like me to do to rectify the situation?"

"We need a barrier around a reasonable portion of the yard - either a fence or a ward."

"For aesthetics a ward would be better."

"Fine with me."

"I'll take care of it Saturday morning, if not before."

"Fine."

"Anything else?"

"Are you going to be bringing work home every night?"

"Not if I can help it, but sometimes it's unavoidable."

"Oh."

"Believe me, love, I'd much rather be relaxing with you than stuck in here trying not to pull my hair out, because some imbecile made a mistake."

"I know," Ginny whispered, suddenly feeling ashamed of herself. This needy feeling that had developed in her lately was quite disturbing and not at all in character for the strong willed witch.

"I promise it won't happen every night."

Ginny nodded somewhat miserably.

"Come around here." Draco moved his chair back from the desk and patted his lap.

As Ginny got close enough, Draco reached out and gently pulled her into his lap. He wrapped his arms around her and buried his head in her hair. She smelled so good and felt even better. He beat down the desire to carry her up to their chambers and distract himself from the work he had to do in the most pleasant way possible.

They sat in silence enjoying the closeness and warmth of the other until a brief knock at the door broke the spell that enveloped them.

"I thought you'd be working," Lucius drawled as he entered the room.

"I am," Draco responded with barely concealed irritation.

Lucius raised a skeptical eyebrow. "Really?"

"I'll leave you to it," Ginny whispered.

"I'll be up as soon as I get this finished," Draco promised. He pulled her closer and kissed her deeply. "Goodnight, love."

"Goodnight." Ginny paused as she rounded her husband's desk. "Goodnight, Lucius."

Lucius inclined his head politely. "Ginevra."

Draco watched his wife walk to the door and let herself out. They'd come very close to having an almighty row this evening. How they didn't was a mystery to him, but he was thankful.

"Trouble?" Lucius enquired as he made himself comfortable in a visitors' chair.

"No," Draco muttered distractedly, pulling his gaze back to the files on his desk.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Millie was waiting for Ginny in the corridor near the master chambers. The house elf informed her mistress that both children were sleeping soundly and had given her no trouble. Ginny quickly dismissed the servant after assuring her she was not in need of anything at the moment and continued to her chambers.

She glanced around the room, her room, and sighed heavily. It was too early to go to bed alone, Draco was busy, and she didn't feel like seeking out Narcissa's company after the erratic day they'd had. The family parlor wasn't inviting when she was in this mood either, the room was large and would only enhance her feeling of loneliness.

A deep feeling of isolation threatened to engulf her, but before her welling eyes could spill a tear she pushed the feeling aside. She would not allow herself to fill with self-pity. Draco had to work, so she would have to entertain herself this evening.

Not really thinking any further ahead than what she was about to undertake, Ginny moved with purpose to the bathroom. She'd take a long relaxing bath to start with and then perhaps she'd curl up with a good book while waiting for Draco.

After an hour long soak in the tub, Ginny curled up on the sofa with her book. Even though it was still relatively early and she truly didn't expect Draco so soon, Ginny still looked expectantly at the door every time she heard a noise. Just once Millie popped in with a cup of tea and a piece of shortbread for her. When Ginny began to grow uncomfortable on the sofa she moved herself into the enormous bed.

In the early hours of the morning, Draco quietly let himself into the master suite. He was exhausted. As he expected, Ginny was sound asleep. Her book lay open beside her. Draco cautiously removed the book from her lax grasp and kissed her forehead. He'd disappointed her this evening and as he prepared for bed, he vowed he'd spend tomorrow evening with her no matter what demands the office put upon him.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*