Dragon and Angel

CHAPTER FORTY SEVEN

DADDY'S NAUGHTY

"Draco, she's fainted. Take her to your rooms. Lucius, Floo Healer Wilson -- see if he can come immediately."

Lucius assisted Draco to stand, with Ginny in his arms, before leaving to make the Floo call Narcissa had requested. Narcissa followed Draco up to his private chambers and watched as he gently laid her on his bed.

"She will be fine-- She just got too upset--"

A bubble of emotion sat like a lump in his throat. "It's my fault. I should have told her -- none of this would have happened."

"It would have happened sooner, perhaps dangerously early in her pregnancy."

"If anything happens--"

"Nothing will happen, Draco. It's not uncommon for pregnant women to faint -- occasionally." Narcissa tried her best to soothe her son's fears, but failed miserably. He looked broken and she was powerless to put him back together, it tore at her heart to see him like this.

Draco sat with Ginny, stroking her hair gently. His eyes never left her face, searching for some sign of consciousness. When Healer Wilson arrived, he could hear his mother greet the elderly wizard and quietly explain her thoughts as to Ginny's collapse. Murmured words drifted over to him--

"--fainted--"

"--complications--examination--"

"--lunch--upset--"

"--possible cause--"

After exhausting Narcissa of information, Wilson made his way over to the bed. "Draco, if you will just move aside, I'll see what I can do for Miss Weasley."

With reluctance, Draco moved away from the bed and watched as the wizard set many charms to work on his fiancée's body. After what seemed an eternity of listening to the old man mutter unintelligibly to himself, the aging wizard focused his attention on Draco.

"She was upset?"

"Err-- yes -- a bit--"

"Yes -- she was very upset." Narcissa knew there was no point playing down the incident, not when the health of her unborn grandchild could be affected.

Healer Wilson frowned at Draco. "I see."

"She'll be all right -- won't she?" Draco looked anxiously between Ginny and the Healer. "And the baby -- the baby is all right?"

"Yes. They're both fine. I should think Miss Weasley's fainting spell was caused by a combination of hypoglycemia and hyperventilation."

"What? What the bloody hell is--"

"Hypoglycemia is simply low blood sugar levels. I understand Miss Weasley hadn't eaten or had any intake of fluid since breakfast?"

"Yeah, nothing since breakfast."

"We have to make certain she eats a little more often, at the very least a cup of tea if she's feeling unwell."

"What about the other hyper-thing?"

"I believe Miss Weasley may have hyperventilated due to her emotional state. While this would usually cause lightheadedness, in combination with hypoglycemia -- she fainted."

"So-- this will continue to happen?" Draco hoped with everything he had that it wouldn't, he didn't think he could stand it if she fainted again. She had terrified him in a way he'd not ever experienced before.

"Not necessarily."

"Not necessarily? What does that mean? How can we stop it from happening?"

"As this episode appears to have been brought on by upset, my best advice is to keep her calm and ensure she eats regularly."

"That's it? Keep her calm and feed her?"

"Yes, Draco. We're a lot better off when we allow nature to take its course. I do feel a few days bed rest wouldn't go astray and I, of course, will monitor her closely."

"St. Mungo's?"

"I don't think a trip to the hospital is necessary. She would probably get more rest here, at home."

"She-- umm-- that is--"

Narcissa stepped forward. She couldn't bear to listen to Draco stammer any longer, besides their living arrangements were no business of the Healer. "We'll do everything to ensure Ginevra rests, as she should."

"Wonderful. I'll pop in tomorrow to check on her, just make sure she stays in bed and remains calm."

A worried frown creased Draco's brow. "When will she wake up?"

"When she's ready, Draco. It shouldn't be long."

"What if she doesn't?"

"She will. You're worrying over nothing. I'll see you tomorrow, but if you should become concerned before then don't hesitate to Floo me immediately."

"Thank you." Draco became distracted as Ginny's head moved to the side and a frown furrowed her brow.

"Ah-- here we are! She's coming back to us now."

Draco moved to stand over her, placing a hand gently on her head. "Gin love, can you hear me?"

"Draco--" Ginny's eyes fluttered open to meet with the worried silver orbs of Draco.

"Shh, it's all right, love. You fainted, but Healer Wilson said you're both okay."

Healer Wilson moved to the other side of the bed. "Miss Weasley, how are we feeling?"

"Umm--I don't--"

"It's all right. It's quite normal to experience some disorientation when you come around. I've just finished explaining to Draco that you need to rest for a few days and you must keep yourself calm. I'll call in tomorrow to check on you and we can have a chat about what happened today." Healer Wilson smiled indulgently at her before turning his attention to Narcissa. "Mrs. Malfoy, perhaps you could arrange a sweet tea and something to eat for Miss Weasley."

"Of course, I'll arrange it straight away." Narcissa turned to leave the bedchamber and Healer Wilson followed her, nattering on as they left.

"Wonderful! I'll be back tomorrow afternoon to check on her and, please, if you have any concerns do not hesitate to Floo my office."

"What--"

Draco cut her off, she sounded as though she were about to become upset again. "Shh, you upset yourself and you fainted, but you'll be fine after a few days rest."

"The twins--"

"Millie has them and I'm sure father has checked on them." As soon as the words left his mouth he realized his mistake and the horrified expression on her face told him as much.

"No!"

"Gin, it's all right. He won't hurt them, he'd never hurt them."

"Drake--"

"Is fine."

"I should go home."

"Gin, you heard the Healer. You need to rest for a few days. You're not going anywhere."

"Draco, I want to go home!" She wanted her voice to sound strong and forceful, but what came out was weak and whiney.

"No! The Healer said you need to rest for a few days and he'll be back here tomorrow to check on you. I'm putting my foot down. You're staying here, where I can look after you and I won't entertain any other ideas you may have." While Draco kept his volume low, his tone indicated no argument would be tolerated.

"I can't stay here!"

"You can and you will. Gin, you just scared the hell out of me... I was thinking the worst, for both you and our baby. I want you here where I can keep an eye on you. I won't go to work, all right? I'll stay here and look after you."

"Your father?"

"Would agree with me one-hundred-percent."

"Mum is expecting us home today--"

"I'll Floo her and let her know what happened." Draco negated every one of her arguments immediately. He wanted her where he could watch her constantly, where he could ensure nothing else would go wrong.

"She'll want me home--"

"You're staying here and I don't care what she says. Your mum is welcome to visit, but you're not going anywhere until the Healer tells me it's all right for you to do so."

Narcissa re-entered the room followed by a house elf with a fully laden tray. "What is that you're saying, Draco?"

"I was just telling Gin that she's not going anywhere, she's staying right here until the Healer advises us otherwise."

"Of course, she's not going anywhere. Here we go, Ginevra, some sweet tea and some sandwiches -- just as the Healer ordered." Narcissa passed Ginny a cup of tea and the servant placed the tray beside her. It held a fine bone china plate with an assortment of little sandwiches.

"Mother, could you sit with Gin while I Floo Mrs. Weasley?"

"Of course, darling. Ginevra and I can have a lovely chat while she regains her strength."

"Thank you." Draco turned his attention to back to Ginny. "I won't be long, okay?"

"Fine."

Her tone was cold, but even so Draco leaned in to kiss her. Just as he got close enough, Ginny turned her head and his lips landed on her cheek. He sighed mentally as he straightened up. He had a lot of explaining to do and he could only hope that she would forgive him. "I'll be back soon."

Both women watched as Draco exited the room, closing the door softly behind him. As soon as the door clicked shut, Ginny let out an audible sigh.

"Your tea, dear." Narcissa held the teacup out to her. "Healer Wilson suggested sweet tea for the remainder of today, just to improve your sugar levels and of course, lots of small meals."

"Thank you," Ginny muttered.

Narcissa waited until Ginny had drunk at least half of her tea before speaking again. "You mustn't think badly of Draco. He didn't tell you, or I, to save us from the anguish of knowing what Drake had endured."

"He knew! He's just as guilty as Lucius."

"I don't condone what Lucius did, nor do I agree with Draco not informing you, or I, when he found out, but neither are capable of harming Drake."

"He had a whip!"

"He did not use the whip. Believe me, Ginevra. I am fully aware of what my husband is capable of. Lucius would kill himself before harming his own grandson. I know his methods can be perceived as being brutal, but I also know they are effective."

"He locked my son in stocks."

"Yes, but he did not harm him, he simply scared him -- gave him something to ponder. Has Drake wandered from your side since that day?"

"No--"

"Lucius' warning worked then." Narcissa studied the younger witch carefully, weighing up whether or not it was necessary to tell her of an extremely private moment she shared with her husband. She nodded to herself. Narcissa would divulge a marital secret; something even their son did not know about. "You were aware that Draco used to have the same habit of wandering away from me when I was shopping--"

"Yes."

"I would get so upset whenever I lost him. Lucius would comfort me and scold Draco, but he would keep wandering away whenever we were out. One day I thought someone had truly taken him, it took us hours to find him. When we did eventually find him, Lucius brought us home and calmed me down before he took care of Draco. It was the first time he ever spanked him. Lucius was devastated. I've never seen him quite like that before, and not ever again. Of course, he never spanked Draco again -- it would have killed him if he had. You see there is a reason Draco is so spoiled. Lucius was incapable of inflicting a physical punishment on him. Yet he could kill someone in cold blood."

Ginny's eyes grew wide at Narcissa's final statement.

She smiled softly at the other woman. "I don't delude myself, I know exactly what my husband is capable of. I've seen him return home with the blood of innocents staining his robes. Of course, this was years ago, but still he is capable of cold-blooded murder. What I'm trying to say is even if Lucius had wanted to use the whip on Drake, he couldn't have -- it would have killed him."

"I don't know what to think."

"Right now, you needn't think about anything. For now, I will keep Lucius away from you, but you do realize the air will eventually have to be cleared between the two of you. At the moment it is far more important for you to take care of yourself and the baby you are carrying--" Narcissa stopped speaking as the door creaked open slowly.

Draco had Flooed Molly Weasley and explained the situation. She had wanted to come right away, but he had managed to put her off until tomorrow by telling her that Ginny was sleeping soundly and in no danger. It wasn't a complete untruth -- she was in no danger. He needed some time with Ginny first, to sort things out and he feared that if her family got too close, too soon he might just lose her all together -- if he hadn't already. Her eyes were so dull, he kept telling himself it was because she wasn't well and the sparkle would return to her beautiful cinnamon orbs when she regained her strength.

"Hey, how are you feeling now, love?" Draco tried to sound pleasant and relaxed as he reentered the room.

"The tea has helped a little."

Draco cringed internally at her flat tone. "Good. I Flooed your mum, she's going to come by tomorrow for a visit."

"Tomorrow?"

"Yeah," Draco paused as he noticed the pained expression on his fiancée's face. "She wanted to come today, but the Healer did say you had to rest and she agreed it would be best to leave it 'til tomorrow."

As Ginny's face dropped in disappointment, Draco could only hope that his little white lies didn't come back to bite him on the arse. All he needed was a little time to sort this mess out and hopefully by tomorrow everything would be back to normal between them. Merlin only knew what the Weasley family would make of current events if they found out what Ginny knew of Drake's punishment.

Narcissa reached out to pat Ginny's hand. "Now, now, your mother will be here tomorrow and if you truly need to see her today, I'm sure Draco will Floo her right back and insist she comes immediately."

"No, it's all right. I don't need her."

Draco knew if he were to repair the damage to their relationship before tomorrow, he had to start now and he needed to be alone with Ginny to do this. "Mother, could you possibly check on the children?"

"Of course, darling." Narcissa rose gracefully from her chair and smiled warmly at the younger witch. "Ginevra, if you need anything, don't hesitate to summon me."

"I won't. Thank you, Narcissa."

Draco looked pointedly at his mother. While he had no idea what he was going to say to Ginny, he desperately wanted his mother to leave so he could at least say something. He didn't like the way Ginny wasn't really looking at him, even when he spoke to her. Narcissa took the unspoken message with grace and left the room, closing the door softly behind her.

"Gin, I'm so sorry I never told you what happened. I should have and I see that now, but I can't turn back time. I can't change that. I don't know what else to say to you."

"Draco, you're only sorry because I found out."

He sat on the edge of the bed, close to her, but not yet touching. "No, I'm sorry it ever happened. I shouldn't have trusted my father to punish Drake. He's my son and I should have taken on the responsibility of disciplining him myself. I--I was scared, I didn't know what I was doing -- I still don't know what I'm doing."

"Do you actually think any parent knows what they're doing? Children don't come with instruction manuals, Draco. Most of the time it's trial and error. I don't know what I'm doing either, but I don't use that as an excuse to abuse my children."

"You're a natural mother, Gin. I swear, I didn't know what Father had planned, apart from taking him down there. I doubt Father knew what he was going to do at the time either. Drake is somewhat difficult to deal with at times. He has us at a disadvantage and he knows it."

Ginny sighed tiredly. "I know he exploits your lack of knowledge. I just don't see why it was necessary for your father to take him into a dungeon in the first place. It just doesn't make sense."

"Father used to take me into the dungeon when I was a boy and had royally fucked up. It's more of a visual thing than anything else, somewhere that's dark and not safe -- it's scary. The problem with Drake was, he wouldn't break. Me, now I would literally get dragged down there for little chats -- kicking and screaming -- but Drake didn't give an inch, apparently he barely uttered a sound until Father showed him the whip. I didn't know until after they came back upstairs that he'd locked him in the stocks and I only found out because I convinced Drake to tell me. I did have words with Father, but there was little I could do to eliminate what had happened. I don't think you would have approved of a memory charm being used on him--"

The look of horror Ginny gave him told categorically what her answer was. "You thought of using a memory charm?"

"No, love. I just used it as an example. I would never use a memory charm on either of the kids."

"Oh--"

Draco picked up both her hands in his and held them gently. Even though she stiffened with the contact he held fast, refusing to release her. "Gin, what I'm trying to say is, I'm truly sorry you found out that way. It was wrong of me not to tell you straight away. I'm not trying to defend what Father did, I didn't agree with it either, but by the time I found out it had already happened. I can assure you it will never happen again."

"I just don't know what to say to you, Draco." A tear slid down her face, followed by another and then a stream.

"Shh, don't cry love. You're not meant to upset yourself."

"I just keep thinking about how terrified he must have been and he didn't even tell me--"

Draco gently wiped the tears from her face. "He didn't tell you because Father convinced him not to. I had a hard time persuading him to tell me what had happened.

"What? He threatened him?"

"No. It's amazing what a kid will agree to just after a visit to the dungeon. Father simply told him not to speak of it to anyone and Drake agreed. No threats involved."

"He used to tell me everything."

"By the end of the day there was nothing to tell, Gin. Father and Drake were firm friends again about two hours after they came up from the dungeon. I actually think Drake may have forgotten the whole incident until this morning."

"Draco, whether Drake forgot about it or not isn't important. It shouldn't have happened in the first place!"

"I know, love. It shouldn't have happened and it will never happen again."

"I don't want him near my children."

Draco knew exactly to whom she was referring. Even though he had been waiting for those words to fall from her mouth, he had no adequate reply prepared. "Gin, you can't do this. It would kill him."

"If you won't tell him, then I will!"

"Please, Gin. Just give it some time. Talk to Father yourself, you'll see he would never-- could never hurt either of the kids or you."

"Fine, I'll tell him myself!" Ginny tried to pull the covers back, to enable her to escape from the bed.

"You are not getting out of bed now!" Draco spoke clearly and evenly. He knew his father wasn't in the best of moods at the moment and if Ginny were to tell him her thoughts, Draco knew it wouldn't exactly improve his disposition. "You are supposed to be resting and not upsetting yourself."

"I'll feel a lot better once I tell your father exactly what I think of him!"

"Gin, that won't achieve anything. I agree you and Father need to talk, but not right now. You need to calm down first and think about this rationally."

"What, so I'm supposed to let him get away with it?"

"With what? Scaring Drake so he doesn't wander away from anyone ever again?"

"I don't agree with how he--"

"Gin, it bloody well worked! I don't agree with how he achieved the result either, but the point is it worked! Merlin knows, there are any number of vicious people out there who would grab him for one reason or another."

"You don't think I realize that? Have you any idea how I feel every time I realize he's wandered away again?" Ginny's volume had risen to the point where she was shrieking at Draco. Her face was flushed and her eyes blazing in fury.

"Draco! Ginevra is meant to be resting." Narcissa had been listening from the sitting room. She had a feeling they would end up arguing again and did not want Ginny to become overwrought. "I feel it may be best if you left the room for now."

"Mother, Gin and I were just having a quiet discussion."

"Yes, I heard from the sitting room. Leave, Draco! I will attend to Ginevra."

"You can't--"

"I just have. Now go before I draw my wand! I will not tolerate you upsetting Ginevra again. Healer Wilson categorically stated she must be kept quiet and not be upset. Out!"

Draco tried to meet Ginny's eyes, but she had cast her gaze to her hands clasped on her lap. His eyes blazed at his mother as he huffed indignantly and stormed from the room, slamming the door on the way out.

Narcissa glided to Ginny's bedside. "Are you all right, dear?"

"Yes, I'm fine."

"I'm so sorry--"

"It wasn't your fault. It was mine. I--" Her voice failed her as she dissolved into tears.

"Ginevra, dear don't cry. This is nothing that we can't fix."

"I hate this so much. I'm sorry, Narcissa, I seem to dissolve into tears at the slightest little thing."

"No need to apologize. When I was carrying Draco, Lucius once made comment that I was akin to a leaky faucet. Of course, his comment only served to induce more tears, but I do understand what you're going through."

"I just feel so foolish. I keep crying at the smallest things. I'm not usually this emotional, really."

"Of course you're not, dear." Narcissa smiled indulgently at her and patted her hand. "And this is not nothing. You've been quite upset and you're certainly entitled to be angry."

"He just keeps agreeing with me then defending Lucius--"

"I heard. Believe me; I'll have words to say to both of them at the appropriate moment, but for now we need to look after you and my new grandchild."

"I just don't understand why he would do such a thing. I've watched him with both the children and he's -- well I didn't think I'd ever hear myself say this about Lucius -- he's wonderful with them. Then I find out what has happened behind my back and I wonder what else I don't know about."

"I don't know, for if either of them have done anything else behind your back then it was behind mine as well. Perhaps it would be more beneficial, for you, to talk with Lucius sooner rather than later. Put your mind at ease."

"I wanted to talk to Lucius, but Draco wouldn't let me out of the bed."

Narcissa looked skeptically at the woman in bed and arched one of her perfectly shaped eyebrows in question.

"All right, I was going to tell him exactly what I thought of him."

"It is tempting, but it will achieve nothing. You need to regain rational thought processes then talk with Lucius, not at him. He admires you. You've raised two beautiful children, on your own for five years -- not an easy feat. You're not afraid to voice your opinion when you disagree, but are intelligent enough to know when to bite your tongue. You are everything he could wish for in a daughter-in-law."

Ginny stared incredulously at the older witch. Lucius Malfoy could not possibly have those thoughts about her -- Ginevra Molly Weasley. It simply did not make sense. Their families had never gotten along, they were from such different backgrounds that they may as well been from different planets.

"Now we'll get you comfortable and you can have a lovely nap. It's been quite a day."

"I don't really need--"

As if reading her mind, Narcissa cut Ginny off swiftly. "Don't worry about the children, they're safe and I'll be keeping a close eye on them. You are to rest. If you need anything at all, summon Millie and she will alert me immediately."

After Narcissa drew the curtains closed with a wave of her wand, she left the room quietly closing the door behind her. Ginny laid down, not expecting to sleep, but knowing it was wise to rest, if not for her sake then for her unborn baby's well-being. It was only minutes before her eyes drifted closed and she slept.

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

The twins had been unusually quiet all afternoon and throughout dinner. Their lack of spirit had little to do with Ginny's absence and far more to do with the incident in the front parlor, for which neither had been properly reprimanded. They didn't know exactly what had transpired from the time Narcissa had taken them to the dining room for their lunch and although they had asked for their mother several times they had only been told that she wasn't feeling well. No one, particularly not Lucius, wanted to explain the real reason behind their mother's absence.

Ginny had eaten dinner alone. Draco had offered to join her, but she declined his company, preferring to eat alone. When he began to insist Narcissa had silenced him with austere look. He had promised to return later with the twins before leaving the chambers. Narcissa had insisted on staying with Ginny while she showered, for fear of her collapsing in the bathroom and then ensured she was comfortable in the massive bed before her dinner arrived, via a servant. The older witch excused herself at that point to assist the twins with their meal, in the dining room.

After they were bathed and in their pajamas, Draco met his children in his private sitting room. "Remember Mummy isn't feeling very well, so you can't jump all over her or make a lot of noise. Okay?"

"Yes, Daddy," Angel replied with a sweet smile.

Drake frowned. "Why is Mummy sick?"

"Umm-- the baby, mate. She's just very tired and the Healer suggested a few days rest." Draco hated to blame his unborn child for Ginny's ailment, but a full explanation at the moment would only complicate the situation with Drake's temper exploding. "Are you ready?"

Both children nodded their understanding with a graveness Draco hadn't seen before on the faces of his offspring.

"I'll wait in here for the children, dear." Narcissa made herself comfortable on the sofa and summoned her needlepoint.

"Thank you, Mother." Draco inclined his head politely before opening the door to the bedchamber, allowing the twins to enter ahead of him. He'd been waiting all afternoon for his mother to say something to him about his knowledge of the punishment Drake had endured, but she had only given him stern looks, thus far. It was like waiting for the guillotine to fall, he knew it was coming, but couldn't determine exactly when it would strike.

"Mummy?" Drake looked hesitantly at Ginny, who was propped up on pillows in the enormous bed.

"Come in, sweetheart." Ginny motioned for him to move closer. "I've been waiting for you to come and visit me."

As Drake walked to the bedside he scrutinized his mother seriously. "Grandmother said you were asleep."

"Yes, I was for most of the afternoon."

"Oh." Drake frowned in thought. "Are you better now?"

"I'm still a little tired."

Angel had waited beside her father while Drake spoke to Ginny. She clung to his hand tightly and alternated her gaze between her parents. Her father's demeanor was tense and her mother didn't look at him, like she usually would. They were acting like they were when she was in hospital -- when they had an argument.

Angel tugged lightly on Draco's hand. "Have you and Mummy had a row?"

"Err--no, of course not, princess."

"Yes you have. I can tell." She tossed her nose in the air and walked to her mother's bedside.

Draco ran a hand through his hair and suppressed a groan. There was no hiding anything with these two -- Drake had a habit of popping up when he and Ginny got too close, and Angel knew exactly when they didn't want to get too close.

"Hello, darling." Ginny held her hand out to Angel. "Have you been good this afternoon?"

"Yes, Mummy."

"Why don't both of you come up here?" Ginny patted the bed.

Both children turned to their father for his approval before clambering up onto the bed and making themselves comfortable on either side of their mother.

Drake absently stroked Ginny's hand as he spoke quietly. "When are you going to stop being tired?"

"Well, I should stop being tired soon. It usually only last for the first few months."

"Oh." Drake's disappointed tone was obvious. "When can you get out of bed?"

"In a day or so. The Healer is coming tomorrow and I'm going to talk to him about getting out of bed so things can go back to normal."

"When are we going home?"

"Umm--"

Draco stepped forward and cut any reply Ginny may have had off. He didn't want her to go home or even consider going home -- not yet, not ever if he had his way. "Not until Mummy's well enough, mate. She needs loads of rest right now and it's easier if you stay here so I can take care of all of you."

"What did the two of you get up to this afternoon?" Ginny forced her voice to be light and happy for the sake of her children.

"We colored in with Grandfather after lunch and then we went horsey riding when Grandmother said you were asleep," Angel offered.

Ginny looked at Draco, her eyes wide and the silent message unmistakable.

"Mother and I were with you. Father simply kept an eye on them."

"And the horse riding?" Ginny knew Lucius was always the one to take Angel riding.

"He did promise her this morning--"

"I don't care--"

"Gin, not now. We can discuss it later." Draco looked meaningfully toward the children. He wanted to avoid bringing them into this mess as much as possible, because it would only serve to complicate matters and Angel had a habit of telling anyone who would listen anything that was going on with everyone.

Angel frowned as she watched her parents interact before chiming in enthusiastically, "We had fun, Mummy."

Ginny glared at Draco one more time before diverting her attention to the twins. "Really, sweetheart? Did your grandfather talk to you about anything?"

Angel's lip quivered. She had been waiting all day for someone to bring her to task for breaking the vase this morning, but no one had. This was obviously it; her mother and father were going to tell her off. "No," she whimpered.

"Your grandfather didn't speak to you about what happened this morning in the parlor?"

She shook her head profusely.

"And he won't. Consider the matter closed, we've had enough upset for one day," Draco said with conviction. He'd make a point of speaking to Drake himself about taking the blame for Angel's mistakes at a later date, but he didn't think he could deal with anymore today and it wouldn't hurt to let the matter slip this time. Besides, priceless or not, it was an ugly vase anyway -- there was no accounting for his grandmother Malfoy's taste.

Angel beamed at her father and Drake visibly relaxed. Now that the children were certain not to receive any punishment for this morning's incident, they both became quite animated while talking to their mother.

Ginny forced a smile for the twins. "And what else did you do today?"

"I played Wizard's Chess with Grandfather before dinner and I won!" Drake was excited over his win, though he suspected his grandfather has lost on purpose.

"And Grandmother helped me with my very own needlepoint!"

"Really?"

"Yep and I'm stitching a horsey!"

"You'll have to show me tomorrow, sweetheart."

"I think it's bedtime, you two," Draco intoned gently.

Ginny eyed him dangerously, as if daring him to argue with her. "They can stay up a bit later tonight. I haven't seen them all day."

"If that's what you want, love."

Draco left the bedchamber briefly to speak with Narcissa, who was still waiting for the children in his sitting room. It was senseless her sitting there all evening and he assured her that he was more than capable of tucking his children in for the night before she left for other areas of the house. Upon re-entering the bedchamber, Draco sat on the end of the bed and watched the three of them chat vivaciously. To the casual onlooker they looked like the perfect family -- a mother surrounded by her children with the father close by keeping watch on his loved ones. It was quite late when Angel began to nod off beside Ginny.

"Gin, I think Angel needs her bed," Draco whispered.

Ginny sighed heavily. "Yes, I guess they should both go to bed now."

"Come on you two, say goodnight to Mummy and I'll tuck you in."

Angel yawned widely. "Can you tell me a story, Daddy?"

"Not tonight, princess. It's far too late for stories."

She pouted miserably and turned her big gray eyes up to her father. Draco watched as they began to brim with tears. He had to bite back the urge to promise the story she wanted to stop the imminent flow of tears.

A deep cleansing breath coupled with his business voice belied his urge to comfort her. "Come on, hurry up and say goodnight, Angel. It's very late and you'll be grumpy tomorrow if you don't get to sleep soon."

"Goodnight, Mummy," Angel sniffed as she placed a wet kiss on Ginny's cheek.

"Sleep tight, darling."

Drake slung his arms around Ginny's neck and held her tight for a few moments. "Night, Mummy."

"Night, night, sweetheart."

Draco looked questioningly at his children. "Are we ready now?"

"Yes, Daddy," Angel murmured as she took his hand.

"I won't be long, love. I'll tuck these two in and come straight back, all right?"

"Fine."

Draco escorted both the children to their chambers. He tucked Drake in first, because he was less likely to fuss over going to bed than his sister. The little boy climbed into the large bed, making himself comfortable with his stuffed dragon by his side.

"Night, mate."

Drake yawned. "Night, Daddy."

"Sleep late tomorrow, okay? You've had a late night." Draco winked at him as he turned to the door.

Draco was surprised to find Angel already in her bed when he arrived in her chambers. She was sitting up in the middle of the large bed surrounded by a zoo full of stuffed animals.

"Princess, you can't sleep with all of those toys. There's almost no room for you."

"They're tired too," Angel pouted.

Draco sighed heavily. He had no energy left to argue the point with her. "All right, all right. The toys can stay. Just go straight to sleep, okay?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"No playing."

Her eyes opened wide and she shook her head slowly. "No, Daddy."

"Right. Goodnight, princess." Draco leaned over and kissed her forehead.

"Goodnight, Daddy."

"See you in the morning." Draco straightened up to leave the room.

"Daddy, you've got to say goodnight to everyone."

"Angel, they're toys! They're not real."

"Grandfather says goodnight to everyone."

The mental image of his father kissing near on twenty stuffed animals goodnight was amusing him more than it should have, considering it was his daughter making the demands. Draco closed his eyes, took a deep mental breath and decided it wasn't worth arguing the point with her. He began to bid goodnight to each and every stuffed toy, much to Angel's delight.

"I didn't miss anyone, did I?"

"Nope, you kissed them all."

"Good. Now go to sleep, princess." Draco placed a last kiss on Angel's cheek before striding from her room wiping the dry, furry feeling from his lips. If she stayed still for just a minute she would be asleep before his feet hit the corridor.

He chanced a look over his shoulder as he reached the doorway, it appeared she was asleep -- well, her eyes were closed at any rate and that was a start. Not wanting to disturb her, Draco didn't close the door fully. He stepped out into the corridor and almost collided with Narcissa.

"Mother, what are you doing out here?"

"I was coming to check on the children."

"I've just tucked them in for the evening. Gin wanted to spend some time with them."

"And your plans now?"

"I'm thinking a hot shower and bed myself, after I talk with Gin a bit more."

"I'd like a word before you return to Ginevra."

"Mother, can't this wait till morning. I told Gin I wouldn't be long and I've been gone over half an hour already."

"No, it won't wait. I've been waiting all afternoon."

"Fine, what is it then?" It wasn't that he didn't know exactly what she wanted to speak with him about, but he wasn't feeling terribly cooperative at this juncture. He was tired and truly not in the mood for his mother's berating.

"Your part in Drake's punishment--"

"Mother, I played no part in Drake's punishment. I found out what happened from Drake afterwards. Now, if you don't mind, this is between my fiancée and I." Draco fought valiantly to keep his voice unaffected. It had been a long afternoon and it wasn't over yet. Plus he had concerns over whether his last statement was indeed true and correct.

"I do mind, Draco. Your silence renders you just as guilty as your father. I am appalled that either of you could subject an innocent child to that trauma--"

"I didn't subject him to anything. I comforted him after the event!"

"You should have informed me of what had happened."

"Why? It would have served no purpose, except to give you reason to chew my ear off!"

"Draco!"

"It's true, Mother. All you would have done was rail at me, like you are now, for subjecting him to God knows what. Well, I didn't subject my son to anything, I was there to hold him after the event and offer him comfort. Until today he appeared to have forgotten all about the incident, therefore there is no permanent damage. Drake will survive!"

"Well I--"

"Mother, quite frankly, at the moment I don't care what you think. I have my own problems and I don't need you making things worse. Drake is fine, he wasn't physically injured, he was frightened and for good reason. Whether or not you agree is beside the point. It happened, I agree it shouldn't have, to that extent, but it did. Now I'm left to pick up the pieces of my family--"

"Draco, that is quite enough!"

Draco spun around to see his father approaching. Lucius' expression was dark, but his pace even. "Father, I've--"

"You have an audience," Lucius intoned quietly.

The door was open only a crack but through the narrow gap the three adults could make out a set of big gray eyes.

Draco ran a hand through is hair in exasperation. "Shit! Bloody hell!"

"Draco!" Narcissa's reprimand went unheeded.

Draco was beyond caring what his mother thought of him or his actions by this time. He knew, come morning, he would have to make amends, but for now he was simply too preoccupied with other matters.

"Angel sweetheart, why aren't you in bed?" Not wanting to upset her, Draco approached her door slowly and spoke gently.

She opened the door all the way and stepped out into the corridor. Fat tears rolled down her face silently. "I heard you growling at Grandmother."

Draco squatted in front of her. "Sorry, sweetheart. You shouldn't have heard any of that."

Angel's eyes were open wide and she shook her head sadly at Draco. "You shouldn't talk to Grandmother like that, Daddy. It's naughty."

Draco bit his tongue to prevent himself from responding. He was certain, at this juncture, that the women in this family were plotting against him in an effort to make his life a misery.

"I rather think it's well past your bedtime, Angelique." Lucius regarded her seriously. "Why don't I tuck you back in and tell you a story?"

Angel looked from her grandfather to her father. "You're not going to be cross with Grandmother anymore, are you, Daddy?"

Draco took a deep breath. "No, princess. I promise."

"Goodnight, Daddy. I love you." She wrapped her arms around Draco's neck, kissing his cheek, before taking Lucius' hand and allowing him to lead her back into her room.

"Goodnight, sweetheart," Draco whispered as they disappeared into the room. He stood up and regarded his mother sternly. He could tell she was still not satisfied with her dressing down of him, but he had no desire to continue their conversation this evening. "Goodnight, Mother."

"Perhaps we could retire to the parlor or your father's study?"

"No, Mother. I'm retiring to my chambers. I promised Gin I wouldn't be long and I feel you've held me up quite enough. Goodnight."

Narcissa stood in the corridor watching her son's back as he strode away. She was not finished with him yet and he would earn himself even more of her temper for abandoning their conversation. With a dissatisfied growl, she marched off in the direction of her own rooms. At least she would be able to work her current frustration out on Lucius -- he had yet to answer for his part in the debacle.

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

Draco entered the bedchamber quietly, more than half hoping Ginny was already asleep. She had been tired when he left with the children and he really didn't have the energy for another argument this evening. All he wanted to do was have a hot shower, crawl into bed, and hopefully hold his fiancée close to him as he drifted off to sleep.

"You were a long time."

He couldn't help the sigh that escaped him at her accusatory tone. "Tucked the twins in, then mother wanted a word."

"Oh?"

"You don't want to know and I don't want to discuss it -- at least not tonight. I'm going to have a shower. Is there anything you want before I disappear for a while?"

"No."

"Fine, I'll be in the bathroom if you need anything."

"Fine."

Draco took a long, hot shower and tried, unsuccessfully, to wash away the stress of the day. No matter how long he stood there, under the steaming water, he couldn't get the tension to release from his shoulders. After what seemed like an eternity he stepped out of the shower and dried off. He slung a towel around his hips and crossed the bedchamber to the dressing room. There, he slipped on a pair of black satin pajama bottoms and charmed his hair dry before going back into the bedchamber.

Ginny appeared to be asleep as he crossed the room. He rounded the bed to what had become his side and, as he pulled back the covers, Ginny rolled over, glaring at him.

"What do you think you're doing?"

Draco sighed heavily as he pulled the blankets back up and snatched one of his pillows. "I was getting into bed."

He left the bedchamber without looking back and dropped the pillow on the sofa in the sitting room. A sound from just beyond the exterior door to his chambers caught his attention. He thought it might have been one of the children, but upon opening the door he caught sight of his father.

"Draco, is everything all right?"

"Yes, Father. I heard a noise, thought one of the twins was out of bed." Draco eyed his father casually, not failing to notice the pillow hanging limply at his side. He smirked. "I see Mother was feeling charitable tonight."

Lucius sneered. "Remind me to thank you in the morning for putting your mother in such a fine mood before bedtime."

"You do yourself an injustice, Father. It would be wrong of me to take all the credit."

"Ah yes, but you did rile her up right before she retired for the evening."

Draco quirked an eyebrow at Lucius. "I rather think she's been waiting all day to voice her opinion, but with the children around she was forced to hold her tongue. Bedtime just happened to be the perfect moment."

"No matter. She has voiced her opinion now." Lucius grinned sardonically. "Well, to me at least. She has yet to finish with you."

"I am aware Mother will have more to say to me in the morning. I was hardly in the mood for her ranting--"

"I do understand, son." Under normal circumstances, Lucius would have taken Draco to task for speaking to his mother in such a disrespectful manner, but these were not normal circumstances. Draco was under a great deal of pressure. Pressure Lucius felt solely responsible for and he would not add to his son's woes at this point.

"Thank you."

"Goodnight, Draco."

Draco leaned in the door jam as Lucius strode off down the corridor. His mother had been banishing his father, for as long as he could remember, whenever she felt displeased. While Ginny had not told him to leave in words, her tone and body language were crystal clear. She didn't want him in the bed tonight -- his bed. Draco closed the door, picked his pillow up and walked back into the bedchamber.

Ginny stared at him questioningly, but she didn't say a word as he rounded the bed and placed his pillow in position. Her eyes widened when he pulled back the covers and climbed into bed. As he rested back against his pillows she huffed and rolled over, placing her back to him. Draco smirked. He wasn't going to allow her to kick him out of his bed. He wasn't his father and she wasn't his mother -- given, her temper was as bad as Narcissa's, but he refused to allow her to do this to him.

It didn't take long for Ginny's breathing to even out, indicating that she had succumbed to sleep. Draco lay with his arms above his head, listening to her regular intake of breath. He wanted more than anything to touch her, to hold her, but fear of disturbing her stilled his hands. His thoughts turned to the situation he was in, he had considered asking Ginny not to tell her family what had gone on with Drake, but quickly dismissed the idea. Even if he managed to convince her not to say anything, one of children was sure to inadvertently inform the wrong people of what had gone on at the manor today.

Sleep was a long time coming for Draco and as he lay there mulling over events, a sleeping Ginny rolled over into the crook of his arm. He knew, had she been awake, she would never have come near him in her current mood, but she was deeply asleep and that didn't mean he couldn't take advantage of her slumber to hold her, as he had hoped to all night. His arm gently slipped down to cradle her against his chest and he finally drifted off to sleep, with thoughts of what the morning would bring running rampant through his head.

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