Dragon and Angel

CHAPTER FORTY EIGHT

SPARKLIES AND TIARAS

Wednesday morning dawned bright and sunny over Malfoy Manor. It promised to be a cheery day; unfortunately the same couldn't be said for the occupants of the Wiltshire manor. Millie delivered Ginny's peppermint tea very early, so she could drink the old remedy as soon as she awoke. It was the servant's near silent casting of a warming charm that alerted Draco to her presence. As his head came up, the small creature panicked, fearing she would be punished for disturbing her Little Master.

"Millie is sorry for waking Little Master," the elf groveled on the floor at the side of the bed.

"Just do what you have to and get the hell out," Draco hissed lowly. He didn't want Ginny to awaken before she was ready.

"As you wish, Little Master. Millie will go now, Little--"

"Shut it!"

The elf bowed its way out of the room and Draco relaxed again. Ginny was curled into a ball beside him, still sleeping peacefully, for the time being. Draco rested back against his pillows and watched the woman he loved beyond reason, sleep beside him. It astounded him just how much he loved this one woman, especially after years of womanizing. He was so captivated by the fiery red head and he knew, in his heart, it had nothing to do with the fact that she was the mother of children. It was purely her -- Ginevra Weasley.

Before long, Ginny began to awaken slowly. Draco continued to observe her as she came to full consciousness in degrees. First a frown creased her brow lightly, then a hand came up to swipe at a stray hair across her face, an effort to sink back into slumber was thwarted by the need to stretch her legs and finally a muffled groan as her eyes fluttered open.

"Morning, love."

She blinked at him a few times before realizing her proximity to his body and moving over to the edge of the bed.

Draco suppressed the urge to reach out and pull her back to his side. "Gin, don't do this. I love you, I--" He paused as her hand came up to cup her mouth. "Your tea is right there."

The quick movement across the bed, coupled with the tension she was feeling had upset her stomach. She shook her head fiercely as she tried to rip back the covers with one hand and escape the bed while still holding her mouth. Draco took a moment to comprehend that it was too late for the special tea and that she had a problem, before taking action to assist her in her flight to the bathroom.

Once free of the bed, she all but ran across the room and didn't bother to close the bathroom door as her target came into sight. Draco could hear her retching violently into the toilet bowl as he climbed out of bed and made his way to the bathroom. He reached for a cloth and dampened it at the basin. As he moved her hair to place the moist cloth on the back of her neck he fully expected her to pull away from him, but she didn't so he joined her on the floor, even though his own stomach was threatening to join hers in sympathy, as he rubbed her back and held her hair.

After a full ten minutes of dry-retching Ginny sat back on her haunches, she was trembling. Draco's arm came around to cradle her and he brought the damp cloth from the back of neck to wipe her pale face. She was so exhausted she couldn't push him away or stop him from his ministrations. When her breathing had resumed a somewhat normal rhythm, Draco began to assist Ginny to her feet.

"Come on, love, I'll help you back to bed. Maybe you need some more sleep--"

She slapped at his hands ineffectually and glared harshly at him. "I can--"

"I'm helping you!" He smirked at her as he leaned down and scooped her into his arms.

"Put me down!"

"When we reach the bed, love."

"I can walk!"

"I never implied you couldn't. Now if you don't calm down you're going to end up being sick again and I, for one, don't want that to happen." Draco kept his tone even and his features stoical, though he was slightly amused with her facial expressions. She was trying to be furious with him, but failing grandly--she simply didn't have the energy to expend.

Draco covered the distance to the bed quickly and laid her down gently. She huffed at him indignantly as her arms crossed over her chest.

He sighed heavily and struggled to maintain his even temper. The urge to rant at her for childish behavior was begging to burst forth. "Would you like some breakfast or are you going try to get some more sleep?"

"I'll just have my tea," Ginny snapped.

"Fine. I'm going to have a shower and get dressed. If you need anything just call me."

"I won't!"

"Well, if you do the offer's there." With a final glance at her, Draco strode into the bathroom. He couldn't believe how stubborn she was being.

Narcissa stopped in to check on Ginny while Draco was in the bathroom and upon learning how ill she had been that morning, Narcissa immediately ordered some dry toast to be brought up in an effort to settle her stomach. If Ginny wasn't feeling somewhat better by the time Narcissa had attended breakfast, she would contact Healer Wilson and have him come earlier than arranged, whether Ginny wanted her to or not. She wasn't about to take any chances with the well being of her unborn grandchild.

Once Draco had dressed, he re-entered the bedchamber. He was feeling refreshed after his shower and ready to go into battle once again with his angry fiancée.

"Would you like me to stay with you for breakfast?"

"I'm not eating."

Draco picked up a piece of the dry toast Narcissa had ordered for her. "Really? This is toast, isn't it?"

"Just go to breakfast."

"I don't want to leave you alone, all right?"

"I'll live."

"I'm sure you will. I just thought it'd be nice to have breakfast together."

"I couldn't sit here and watch you eat whatever it is you'll be having without my stomach turning traitor right now."

"I'll skip breakfast then."

She sighed impatiently. "Just go and have breakfast. While you're down there you can check on the twins."

"All right. If that's what you really want."

"That's what I want. Do I have to spell it out for you?"

"I'll be back right after breakfast. Millie will be on call if you need anything."

She rolled her eyes at him. He would never just leave her completely alone, there always had to be someone watching her. She was beginning to feel like a caged animal, like the creatures in the Muggle zoo her father once took her to see.

"See you soon."

"Don't hurry."

Draco thought it best not to respond to her last remark. She was obviously itching for an argument, but he wasn't going to oblige. He left his chambers and made his way directly to the dining room.

As he entered the dining room, all conversation stopped as everyone present turned toward him. Angel leaned over and began nattering furiously in Drake's ear. The little wizard's eyes were getting wider with every word his sister uttered.

Lucius frowned at his granddaughter. "Angelique, it is rude to whisper in company. Perhaps you'd care to share your conversation with everyone."

Angel looked down at her plate and refused to meet anyone's eyes. "Daddy was naughty."

"Yes, yes we are all aware of your father's behavior last night, Angelique," Lucius said with impatience.

"Drake didn't know," she whispered.

"I see, and you thought it important enough to tell Drake at the breakfast table?"

She nodded seriously at Lucius.

Drake's eyes met his father's and he smirked before turning his attention to his grandfather. "Are you going to take Daddy to the broom shed, Grandfather?"

Lucius looked at his grandson, a perplexed expression crossing his face. "What would I take your father to the broom shed for?"

"He yelled at Grandmother, he needs a spanking."

Lucius bit the inside of his cheek to keep from laughing out loud. "Really? And what makes you say that?"

Drake sighed before continuing in a small voice, "When you yell at Mummy or Grandma you get taken to the broom shed for a spanking."

A frown crossed Lucius brow. "How is it that you know this?"

Drake fell silent and looked distinctly guilty under his grandfather's gaze.

"Drake yelled at Mummy and Grandma once and Uncle Bill took him to the broom shed and spanked his bottom," Angel offered knowingly.

"Really? Well this is intriguing."

"Bill hit you?" Draco leaned across the table to get Drake's full attention.

The little boy nodded just a little.

"Drake, when did this happen?"

"Before."

"Before what?"

"Before you came."

"I don't believe this. When I get my--"

"Draco, calm yourself. We have just come into possession of some vital information. I have no doubt, it will prove extremely useful in the next few days," Lucius intoned smugly. He knew the issue of Drake's punishment would be reported to the Weasleys. There was little he could do to stop it and they would likely criticize his methods. However, this new knowledge would aid in his defense.

Breakfast continued in a normal fashion, if the hard looks Narcissa shot across at Draco were not to be counted. This morning she was almost fit to be tied, never before had she been so angry with her son. She had stewed all night on his behavior and refusal to listen to her berating the evening before. He had been blatantly rude in a fashion she had not seen before and if he thought for one minute that he might get away with it, she could assure him, he was wrong--very wrong.

Draco excused himself as soon as he had finished eating and left the dining room in a hurry. He was eager to escape his mother's company before she launched herself into the tirade he was sure to have earned from her. He cringed as heard his mother's melodic tone call him from just behind. With a heavily sigh he turned to face her.

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

Though her words sounded as sweet as honey, Draco knew they were laced with poison. "I'm in rather a hurry, Mother. Perhaps we could have a chat later in the day?"

"I'm afraid I must insist, Draco. You've put me off too long already. I demand an audience."

"Mother, I need to get back to Gin--"

"Now, Draco!" Narcissa turned on her heel and walked toward her private parlor. Her tone more than suggested no argument would be tolerated and Draco followed her obediently, lest she truly lose her patience with him -- a session with his mother's wand was not on his agenda this morning.

Once Narcissa had made herself comfortable on a brocade chair, she regarded her son gravely. He stood before her, an impatient air about him, so like his father.

"I am not at all happy with you."

"I'm fully aware of your feelings, Mother."

"You have not only disrespected Ginevra, but me as well."

"What goes on between Ginny and I is our business, not yours."

"Draco, I raised you better than to disrespect a woman--"

"Yes, Mother. I know. Please accept my humblest apologies for my poor behavior."

"A simple apology won't earn you redemption. I want to understand why."

"Why?"

"Yes, why you failed to notify Ginevra or myself of Drake's punishment. You admitted you didn't agree with how he was punished, yet you kept your silence."

"Mother, by the end of the day there was nothing to tell. Father and Drake had repaired their relationship without any input from me. And I might remind you of the events of that evening, concerning his uncle."

"I hadn't forgotten what occurred in the evening, but you have maintained your silence for quite some time."

"I expressed my displeasure to Father as soon as Drake was out of earshot and I considered the matter closed thereafter."

"You still haven't explained why you did not at least mention--"

Draco sighed heavily. She was leaving him with no choice but to pull rank on her. "As Drake's father, I dealt with it the way I saw fit and I saw no need in upsetting you or Ginny with needless details of a punishment I'd already taken issue with Father over."

"Surely you can see if you had of informed us, this entire situation could have been avoided."

"Or, as you suggested yesterday, it could have happened extremely early in Gin's pregnancy with a disastrous result."

"At least it would have been out in the open. As it stands, you and your father are guilty of lying by omission. It is a far worse charge than heavy handed tactics when punishing a boy."

"If you insist, Mother."

"Only yesterday you were bemoaning the fact that you hadn't told Ginevra earlier."

"Yes, I know and you're right. Father and I should have told both of you. It won't happen again."

"How can we be certain of this?"

"From now on, I will deal with the children's discipline. I should have from the beginning, I see that now, but I cannot undo what has been done."

"Were there any other events Ginevra and I were not informed of?" Narcissa hoped not, she knew it was one of things Ginny was most concerned about. If had been any other occurrences, it would be best if they were tactfully brought into the open now.

"No, Mother. Just that one time."

"You realize her family will not be pleased?"

"No, they won't be pleased. I dare say there'll be quite a bit said regarding Drake's treatment."

Narcissa smiled haughtily. "At least we did not stoop to physical punishment."

Draco chuckled. "No, we didn't have to."

"What time is Mrs. Weasley arriving?"

"I'm not sure, this morning sometime."

"You should be getting back to Ginevra. I'll alert you when her mother arrives."

"Thank you, Mother." Draco inclined his head respectfully and began to walk toward the door.

"Draco?"

"Yes, Mother?"

"If you ever speak to me again, like you did last night, I won't hesitate to draw my wand."

"Of course, I do apologize, Mother. It was incredibly rude and disrespectful. I am sorry."

"Accepted."

Draco strode from his mother's private parlor and made his way back to his chambers. His mother never ceased to amaze him. Even at his age, she still had the ability to make him feel like a naughty child. It was not a feeling that sat well with him, especially when he was trying to assert his position. Perhaps a discussion, at a later date, with his father might put an end to her interference.

As he entered the bedchamber Draco's heart leapt into his throat. Ginny wasn't in bed and he could hear the shower running. The thoughts that ran through his mind as he closed the distance between the two doors were truly frightening. How long has she been in there alone? Has she collapsed again? She could have drowned while I was eating breakfast... If only Mother hadn't held me up...

He burst through the door, looking around frantically for evidence of Ginny's lifeless body on the floor. What greeted him instead was a very wet, startled witch.

"Draco, what in the name of Merlin are you trying to do? Scare me to death!"

"I--I thought--you weren't in bed--the water--"

"I needed a shower."

"You could have waited, I'd have sat with you--"

"I'm not an invalid, Draco. I left the shower screen open so the heat wouldn't build up too much. I have done this pregnancy thing before--"

"I know, I just -- when you weren't in bed, I just thought something had happened."

Ginny rolled her eyes at him. He could really be exasperating at times.

"I'm sorry, love. I didn't mean to scare you." Draco sat down on the edge of the bathtub and ran his long fingers through his hair.

"What are you doing?"

"I'm waiting for you to finish."

"I don't need a babysitter."

Draco read her tone perfectly and decided it was time to try a different approach. He grinned at her wickedly and suggested, "Don't think of me as a babysitter, think of me as an appreciative observer."

She huffed and turned her back on him. To dispute his presence would have proven futile -- Draco was as stubborn as she was, if not more so, and Ginny was well aware it would have been a waste of energy. She ran her hands across her still flat belly, massaging a strawberry scented body wash into her skin.

Unable to help himself, Draco crept toward the shower stall. So intent on ignoring him, Ginny didn't hear his light footfall at all. "Pass me the soap and I'll wash your back--"

Ginny let out a small startled scream and turned to face him. "I can wash my own back," she snapped.

"Come on, love. You like it when I wash your back."

"I said no!"

"Gin, you're being silly. I only want to help--"

"Then go away! That would help."

"Nope. Not until I wash your back." The edge in his tone suggested his patience was wearing thin. "Pass me the soap. We can't have you straining yourself."

"Draco--"

He saw that she was going to refuse him yet again and reached forward through the water for the bottle of scented soap. "Fine, have it your way."

Ginny stared incredulously at his still fully clad arm slicing through the shower stream and seizing the bottle. He was soaked to the shoulder but it didn't dampen the smug expression on his face.

"Turn around," he ordered as he tipped soap into his hand.

Her mouth opened and closed several times before she obeyed his request. Never before had he used a tone this forceful with her. His face was set with such a determined expression that she wasn't sure he wouldn't physically turn her around, if she did not comply.

As his fingers hovered over her skin, Ginny stepped closer to the back wall of the stall, almost coming in contact with the cold tiles. Draco smirked and quirked an eyebrow at her before stepping under the spray of the shower, fully dressed, to reach her -- she was being difficult, but he was determined. She huffed impatiently as his large hands began to gently massage her shoulders and neck. He continued his ministrations until he felt her begin to relax under his touch. Then he began to drift lower, caressing every inch of her silky skin from her shoulders to her round backside. Lost in the sensation of her body, Draco's long fingers drifted up to brush the undersides of her breasts. He groaned involuntarily into hair. The power this woman had over him was like none other he'd ever experienced. Just the feel of her skin beneath his fingertips sent waves of pleasure straight to his groin and his pants were growing tight and uncomfortable. He allowed his imagination to take a tour of where he'd like to venture next--

His hands would cup her breasts, thumbs teasingly running over her nipples--she'd groan with pleasure and lean back into his throbbing cock. He would start to grind into her back, relieving a little tension for himself, but at the same time creating so much more. A hand would slip down to first tangle in her ginger curls then a lone finger would slide its way into heaven. The teasing of his one talented finger would have her writhing against him, begging him breathlessly for more. Her hands would come around to release his throbbing dick from its confines and he would take her, hard and fast, against the tiles--

Ginny's eyes popped open as she felt Draco step in to become flush with her back, his hands floating down to her hips. She could feel his erection prodding her insistently. Unable to step backwards, Ginny slipped to the side. "I think I'll get out now."

Without pausing to wait for a response, she stepped from the shower stall, grabbed one of the large fluffy towels and left the bathroom. His hands had felt good on her body -- too good. She found herself lost in the sensations his touch was creating for some time and it wasn't until she felt his erection press into her back that she returned to her senses. Startled to find his desire more than evident and desperate to escape before she gave in to her own needs, she had no choice but to make a swift exit.

Draco growled in annoyance as his forehead fell against the tiles. His robes were heavy and the weight was dragging on his shoulders -- it was a weight he hadn't noticed when his hands were on her body. Ginny wouldn't talk to him, let alone touch him. He had a throbbing hard on and no witch to ease the situation. He cursed under his breath as he began to remove his sodden robes. A sigh of relief escaped him as he pulled his boxers gently over his pulsing member. Once he discarded them in the pile of wet clothing on the shower stall floor, he glanced at his painful erection. It seemed to be begging for relief. No amount of reciting Quidditch statistics was going to quell his need for release.

Ginny entered the dressing room and closed the door firmly behind her. She wrapped the towel around her body and dropped into a chair at the vanity. She was annoyed with herself for allowing him to make her feel so needy when she was angry with him. He knew exactly how to get her body to respond and she was powerless to stop the inherent responses of her nerve endings. With an irritated sigh, she began to dress herself for the day. Her mother was visiting at some point and she didn't want to be in bed when she arrived. It would only cause Molly to fuss even more and Ginny didn't think she could stand much more commotion over her condition.

He reached out and pushed the bathroom door closed. Draco couldn't believe he was about to do this. He felt like a foolish teenager again, after a hot snogging session with a cock-teaser. But given the day ahead, he thought it would be wiser to get some things out of the way, rather than risk the loss of his temper, through frustration, in front of Molly Weasley. With a deep intake of breath he wrapped his long fingers around himself and began to pump slowly. He braced himself against the wall with his other hand as his hips began to move in harmony with his pumping hand. A hiss of pleasure escaped as his hand increased speed and his gray eyes rolled back in their sockets with the sheer relief of knowing release would be imminent.

His mind began to wander into the past. There had been many beautiful women in his bed before Ginny came back into his life. Only a select few stayed in the forefront of his memory. A wicked smirk turned his mouth up. There had been a red head, a beautiful fiery vixen -- he'd always had a weakness for flaming hair. She had taken him to heights he'd previously not visited. Distant memories began to flood his mind's eye.

When Ginny emerged from the dressing room she noticed the shower was still running and the bathroom door was now closed. She made herself comfortable on the sofa before the fireplace with a book. The thought of going in search of the twins tempted her to leave the chambers, but she knew they were more than likely with Narcissa and the reprimand her future mother-in-law was likely to serve her if she was out of bed wasn't worth the stress. She would wait for Draco and send him to collect the children.

After what seemed like an eternity to Ginny, the water shut off in the bathroom. She had been unable to concentrate on her reading and had been staring at the same page for some time. Her mind kept wandering to the bathroom and just what Draco was up to in there. He'd already showered that morning, before breakfast, so he didn't truly require another one so soon -- unless he was making use of the cold water faucet.

The bathroom door opened and Draco strode across the room with a towel wrapped loosely around his hips. Beads of water still glistened on his chest and his hair was dripping down his back. She noted his erection was no longer evident.

Ginny looked over the back of the sofa. "You were a long time in the bathroom."

"I had something to take care of," Draco ground out with a disdainful glare. It wouldn't hurt her to know what she had forced him into doing for himself. He'd be damned if he was going to let her get away guilt free from this mornings little fiasco.

Ginny tried to suppress the amused smirk that crept across her face. His expression was priceless. While his eyes were hard and accusatory, the tips of ears had tinged pink as the words left his mouth. "Really?"

Draco's eyes popped wide open before narrowing harshly. How dare she mock him? She may have sounded mildly interested, but her facial expression told an entirely different story -- she was amused at his predicament. He snarled resentfully as he stalked into the dressing room and slammed the door just as Ginny all but collapsed with laughter.

Bloody witches! Can't live with them, can't use your bloody hand forever either! Angry thoughts screamed through his head about the indignities of being left to one's own devices. He'd get even with her for this humiliation. He was a grown man, with a fiancée and he shouldn't have to resort to wanking in the bathroom like some naughty schoolboy, only to have her laugh at him afterwards.

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

Draco had arranged for the Weasley family to be able to Apparate safely through the wards guarding his home earlier in the week. Molly Weasley landed a short distance from the front door of the grand manor. She looked up at its impressive presence. There was not much this witch held in awe, but the mere fact that this would become her daughter's home did render her speechless -- almost.

"Come on, Mum. Let's get this over with," Ron growled from beside her. His feigned annoyance at the proceedings was crumbling with every glance he snuck of the building in front of him.

Harry looked the building over from his position on the front lawn. Both Aurors had seen numerous wizarding photographs of Malfoy Manor and its grounds, but neither had ever ventured this close to the building. "Tad more impressive close up, isn't it?"

"Bloody Malfoy! No wonder he's such a git," Ron snarled. Even though he now earned a good wage and was marrying a very wealthy witch, he still griped about those who had and those who struggled, as he did through school.

"Ronald, I won't tolerate any disrespect! We're here to see Ginny and she's not very well so you're not to go upsetting her with silly comments about Draco or his family."

"Wouldn't dream of it, Mum. Can we just go in?"

As the three approached the front of the house, the doors swung open to reveal a small house elf waiting to welcome them into the lavish foyer. They stepped over the threshold -- Ron first, and then Molly followed by Harry. All three stared at the luxurious appointments of the room they had entered. The house elf stood by nervously glancing at the grand staircase, watching his mistress descend.

"Mrs. Weasley, a pleasure to see you again," Narcissa smiled cordially and reached for the other woman's hands.

"Mrs. Malfoy, you have a lovely home," Molly smiled warmly at the blonde woman. She understood the etiquette of aristocrats better than anyone truly gave her credit for. Certain protocols had to be followed. Warm greetings, whether sincere or not, must be followed through.

Narcissa eyed the two Aurors, still with her smile in place, but her mind had begun to work furiously. She knew the dark haired wizard was Harry Potter. The other man was one of Ginevra's brothers, but which one she wasn't entirely sure. "And boys, how gallant of you to escort your mother."

Harry inclined his head slightly. "Mrs. Malfoy."

"Mrs. Malfoy," Ron all but mumbled.

"Ginevra is resting in her chambers. If you'd like to leave your cloaks with the servant, I'll escort you to her rooms."

Molly immediately unclasped her cloak and passed it to the waiting servant.

"If you don't mind, Mrs. Malfoy, Ron and I can get called in at any given moment. It's probably better if we keep our cloaks with us," Harry informed her politely.

"Of course not. If you'll follow me, I'll take you up to Ginevra."

Ron stared openly at the wealth surrounding them as they followed Narcissa Malfoy through the corridors leading to where Ginny was resting. It wasn't as though he wasn't used to wealth, the Parkinsons were almost as affluent as the Malfoys, but the thought that all this would become a permanent fixture in his baby sister's life was a little overwhelming.

"Here we are," Narcissa announced as she walked through a set of open double doors into a private sitting room.

The arriving group could hear the sweet giggles of Angel coming from the room beyond as they crossed the sitting room.

Narcissa paused in the second doorway leading to the bedchamber. "Ginevra, you have visitors."

"Grandma!" Angel leapt from her position on the floor and ran into Molly's embrace.

"Hello, sweetheart. Have you been a good girl for Mummy?"

The little witch nodded. "Uh huh. Mummy's not very well."

"Isn't she? We'll have to see if we can't make her all better then." Molly smiled and squeezed Angel once more before allowing her to greet her uncles. She scanned the room for her grandson. "Drake, aren't you going to come and say hello?"

Drake looked up from his coloring, sighed with annoyance at the disturbance and got to his feet. "Hello, Grandma."

Molly wrapped her arms around the little boy. "Have you behaved yourself?"

He rolled his eyes. "Yes, Grandma."

"Good. Your mum doesn't need to be dealing with trouble when she's not feeling well."

"Hey, mate!" Harry ruffled Drake's hair playfully. "Why don't you get your stuff and we'll go into the other room while Grandma talks to Mummy."

"Okay."

"Angel, do you want to take anything into the other room?" Ron looked at the little girl in his arms.

"Nope. I was talking to Daddy."

"Alrighty then," Ron said before turning to Harry. "We'll see you two in there."

Harry waited patiently while Drake picked up the picture he'd been coloring in, along with his pencils. With the items under his arm the little boy walked ahead of Harry into his father's private sitting room.

"Talk to you later, Gin. Malfoy, if you get sick of the women nattering feel free to join us." Harry winked at Ginny and followed Drake, closing the door to the sitting room behind him.

"I might just do that," Draco replied amicably. With his mother, future mother-in-law and fiancée in the room the chances of the 'nattering' getting out of control were very high, indeed.

Molly approached the blond wizard. "Draco, how are you dear?"

"Well thank you, Molly. Yourself?"

"Very well. You've been looking after my Ginny?"

Draco grinned at her. "As far as she'll let me."

Molly leaned into him and whispered, "She has a bit of a stubborn streak."

"Really? I hadn't noticed," he replied with a wink.

"Ginny, dear." Molly rushed over to embrace her daughter.

"Hello, Mum."

"Now what happened, dear?"

"I just fainted, that's all. No need to fuss."

"There must have been something that caused--"

"I hadn't eaten since breakfast and I was a bit upset about something."

"Oh?" Molly's eyes landed on a decidedly guilty looking Draco. "And just what were you upset about?"

"It was nothing. I--"

Draco took a deep breath and stepped into the conversation. He knew there was no point in trying to hide the facts and he hoped Molly would appreciate his honest approach. "Gin found out how Drake was punished for wandering away from Mother, while they were shopping in Diagon Alley."

Molly straightened up and looked at Draco in a manner that could only be described as dangerous. "Care to tell me exactly what happened?"

Narcissa had floated over to stand beside Draco, she place a hand on his arm. "Perhaps we could all sit down with a lovely cup of tea and Draco can explain yesterday's events, in full."

Within seconds of Narcissa's suggestion a servant appeared with a fully laden tea tray. She had ordered tea to be served upon the arrival of the Weasley matriarch. Narcissa was the perfect hostess, serving the tea and offering small pastries to the guests.

Once everyone was comfortable Molly looked expectantly at the Malfoys. "Draco, what happened?"

"There was an incident yesterday morning in one of the front parlors. Angel broke a vase and Father happened upon the situation before we did. He suggested a private chat to discuss her unruly behavior inside and Drake tried to take the blame for the mishap. When we didn't accept his confession, he blurted out that he didn't want Angel to go to the dungeon--"

"Dungeon?"

"Yes. When Drake wandered away from Mother, Father took him to the dungeon at the office. He didn't exactly show enough fear upon entering the room so Father showed him how the stocks worked and one of the whips--"

"What?"

"Lucius did not strike Drake. He merely showed the whip to him and made the suggestion that he could be tempted to use it if Drake ever wandered again." Narcissa defended her husband. Even though she didn't agree with his method of punishment, she couldn't sit there and allow Molly Weasley to think the worst.

"Drake has never uttered a word about any of this," Molly uttered, clearly perplexed. The little boy usually told her everything about his punishments received from other family members, so she could offer him comfort.

"Father suggested he keep his silence."

"I see."

"Ginevra became upset and fainted while we were discussing the matter." Narcissa was trying to move the subject back to Ginny's health and away from Lucius.

Molly turned to her daughter. She was quite confused as to Ginny's obvious overreaction. "Ginny, that's not like you. I don't see why you would get upset about Drake being in a dungeon or seeing a whip, and he's had far worse threats pass his ears at home."

"He locked him in the stocks," Ginny whispered.

"HE WHAT?"

"Mrs. Weasley, no harm came to Drake. My husband merely tried to frighten the boy into not being tempted to wander from anyone's side again. There are people out there who would harm Drake because he is a Malfoy," Narcissa quickly expressed her defense.

"How can you sit there and tell me no harm came to my grandson? Locked in stocks! There was a whip!"

Draco stood up to tower over the women. "Molly, please. Drake wasn't whipped. Father just showed him the whip and made the threat very clear."

"Lucius would never physically punish either of the children--ever." Narcissa's thoughts were in turmoil. She wanted to fix the situation, but everything they said seemed to make it worse in the eyes of Molly Weasley.

"I'd like a word with my daughter--alone!"

"Of course. Draco, we'll leave them alone for a while." Narcissa rose gracefully from her chair. "If you need anything, Ginevra, just summon Millie."

The Weasley women sat in silence until the door closed firmly behind Draco and Narcissa. Ginny trembled just enough to make her teacup tinkle against its saucer. A lone tear ran silently down her face.

Molly moved to sit beside her daughter and took her hands into hers. "Ginny, dear tell me everything."

"He must have been so frightened, but he never said anything."

"Drake is a lot tougher than you give him credit for." Molly's main concern at this point was keeping Ginny calm and, if she could, make her believe, even momentarily, that her son could handle any situation.

"Apparently, he took him into the dungeon and locked him in the stocks then he showed him the whip. He actually cracked it near his bottom."

"But he didn't hit him?"

"No, he didn't hit him and they keep swearing he'd never hit him, but--"

Molly thought for a moment. This situation would have to be dealt with carefully otherwise it could very well develop into a nasty state of affairs -- if it hadn't already. She had seen Lucius Malfoy at the twin's birthday party and he had surprised her with how caring he appeared. Given that impression of the man, it was difficult to believe he would be capable of what her daughter was telling her. It wasn't that she disbelieved Ginny, or Draco for that matter, but the idea that her daughter might be making more out of this than is entirely necessary did cross her mind. The man was capable of horrific acts, that she was positive of, but she doubted he could harm either of the children after seeing him interact with them. The only thing she could think to do at this time was put the situation into perspective for Ginny's sake. "Did Draco know of any of this?"

"He says he found out afterwards and voiced his disapproval to his father immediately, but they didn't tell me or Narcissa."

"I see. Drake hasn't wandered away again, has he?"

"No. Probably the fear of what punishment he might attract from Lucius if he did."

"Ginny, he didn't hurt him and Drake is staying with us while we shop. Granted his method is questionable, but it seems to have worked."

"But, Mum, he--"

"Ginny, don't get yourself upset. Drake is all right, isn't he?"

"Yes."

"Right, we'll deal with this when you're stronger."

"I--"

"No more. Now, have you seen a Healer or Mid-witch?"

"Yes, Healer Wilson came yesterday."

"And what did he say?"

"That I got too upset and because I hadn't eaten anything, I fainted. Nothing to worry about."

"You're eating more often?"

"Yes, Mum. Narcissa is making sure--"

"Good. And you're resting?"

"This is the first time I've been out of bed since it happened."

"Is the Healer coming back?"

The door cracked open slowly and Narcissa slipped into the room, closing the door behind her. She had given them some time alone and was worried about what may be said between the two witches in her absence. "Is everything all right?"

"Everything is fine. I was just asking Ginny when the Healer was returning."

"Healer Wilson is returning this afternoon. He's been our family Healer for as long as I can remember. Of course, we'll have to select a Mid-witch for Ginevra soon, but for now he's more than adequate to assist Ginevra at the moment. He's a very experienced Healer."

"Good. Once you've spoken to him, we can get you home and rested properly." Molly patted Ginny's hand comfortingly.

Narcissa's piercing look went unnoticed by the two redheaded witches. She had to compose herself before speaking. "Ginevra has been resting quite well here. She has everything brought to her and the children are well cared for. There's no reason for her to leave until she's completely recovered."

"I'm sure Ginny would be more comfortable in her own home."

"I'd like to think she considers the Manor her home already. We were planning the redecorating of the southern wing just before the incident."

"That may be, but she belongs at home where I can care for her." Molly fixed the blonde witch with a formidable look.

Narcissa sniffed slightly. She wasn't about to be intimidated in her own home. "You're welcome to visit Ginevra anytime. As I understand it, the Healer specifically said she needed to stay here until she recovers--traveling was not advisable."

"We can discuss traveling with the Healer this afternoon. I'm sure a Portkey can be arranged if necessary."

"Of course, you're quite welcome to discuss whatever you wish with Healer Wilson, but whatever is best for Ginevra and the baby must be taken into account." The sweet smile that graced Narcissa's face was merely a front for her scheming thoughts. She would have first contact with the Healer and would ensure he advised a lengthy stay at the Manor. Fear that Draco and Ginevra would not sort their differences out was still gnawing at her constantly.

"I am thinking of what is best for my daughter and grandchild."

"I certainly wasn't suggesting otherwise."

Ginny sat forward on the sofa. All she needed now was for her mother and future mother-in-law to start going at each other. "Can we just drop the subject for now, please?"

Narcissa laid a hand on Ginny's shoulder. "Of course, dear. There's no need to upset yourself, remember what Healer Wilson told us yesterday."

"You mustn't upset yourself, Ginny dear." Molly hated to agree with the blonde witch, but she wouldn't have Ginny's health compromised due to stubbornness.

A short while later the wizards returned to the room with the twins. It seemed everything Molly said Narcissa would find a way to disagree some how and vise versa. Ginny was becoming more and more agitated as the hours drifted past. Close to midday, Ginny was feeling extremely tired, she was so tense that just the simplest of questions was causing her to snap at the children.

Draco noticed her demeanor had been slowly getting worse as the morning wore on. When she just about took Angel's head off for telling everyone what a wonderful time she had riding yesterday with her Grandfather he knew it was time to give Ginny a break. "Perhaps we could go down to lunch and allow Gin some rest for a little while?"

"Splendid idea, darling." Narcissa rose from her chair. "You are looking very tired, Ginevra. Is everything all right?"

"Fine, I'm just fine," Ginny ground out. All she wanted was five minutes without having to concentrate on what this person was saying to that person, in case it was offensive and she'd have to head the comment off or do some damage control.

"We'll leave you to rest while we take lunch in the dining room," Narcissa smiled indulgently at her. "Mrs. Weasley, boys... I'm sure Draco will escort you downstairs. I'll just help Ginevra get settled into bed."

"I'll just rest here. Thank you, Narcissa."

"If you insist, dear. Are you sure you'll be comfortable enough?"

"Yes, I'll be fine. Enjoy lunch."

"I'll send Millie up with a tray."

"Thank you." Ginny forced a smile to cover her traitorous thoughts, now will you all just go away...

"I can stay with you, dear," Molly offered firmly.

"I'm fine, Mum. You go and have lunch in the dining room. I need some rest--"

"As long as you're sure."

"I'm sure, Mum. Go and have a lovely lunch."

The sigh of relief that had begun to escape her as the door closed behind everyone, hitched in her throat when she noticed Draco standing quietly in the corner. He gave her a lopsided smile and came to sit beside her.

"Are you all right after all that ruckus this morning?"

"I'm fi--" Ginny's head dropped into her hands. She took a deep breath in an effort to stay the tears she could feel building up and threatening to burst forth. "I'm tired, I have a headache and I'm sick of our mother's sniping at each other politely."

"Actually, I thought it was quite entertaining," Draco chuckled. "Both of them trying to assert their authority over you and push the other one out, without offending each other."

Ginny eyed her fiancé in a manner that clearly conveyed her thoughts--he'd clearly lost his mind.

"Come on, Gin. Think about it..." Draco composed himself and continued with his best impression of both older witches, "Mrs. Malfoy, the sky is such a lovely shade of blue today ... Blue, Mrs. Weasley? I rather thought it was more gray in hue, I suppose we could deem it steely blue..."

Ginny tried as hard as she could to maintain an impassive expression, but it all fell apart when Draco quirked both his eyebrows at her suggestively with a huge comical grin. She began to giggle and for the first time in twenty-four hours it wasn't forced.

Draco relaxed a little, she sounded almost normal again. "Would you like me to stay and have lunch with you?"

Ginny sobered a little and looked at Draco. She almost said yes, but then the thought of her mother and Narcissa sitting at the same table without an effective referee present changed her mind immediately. "I think it'd be better if you went down and kept an eye on our mothers. Merlin only knows how far they'll go before one of them loses their self-control."

"Yeah, I suppose so," Draco sighed heavily. He had hoped that her laughter had been a good sign, a positive indication that she was ready to sort things out between them. Lunch together would have been an excellent start, but she obviously didn't feel the same.

"If they were behaving themselves, I would have liked your company for lunch, but I don't think we can trust them to keep their wands to themselves at the moment," Ginny added when his face fell in disappointment.

"No, I guess we can't. I don't know what's wrong with Mother -- well, actually I do have a fair idea. Your mother keeps suggesting you go home, that she can care for you better and Mother doesn't want you to leave yet. She likes having you and the children here."

"What about you? Do you want me to leave?"

"No. I want you to stay here forever. I want us to make a home together."

Ginny considered his words, his tone for a moment. She met his silver eyes and saw all the hope in the depths of his soul. "I won't leave today."

"You have no idea how happy you've just made me."

A soft smile graced her features. She knew, in her heart, they would work things out between them and everything would be all right again, it was just a matter of time. "If you don't get down to the dining room we may have another problem to deal with. I don't know about you, but I'm not up to disposing of a body today."

"I'd better go. You'll be all right?"

"Yes, I think I just need five minutes alone to gather my thoughts."

"Can I send up a headache potion?"

"There's only one I can take at the moment." Ginny frowned. She would like nothing more to take something to rid her head of the thumping within, but she wouldn't take anything that could be potentially harmful to the baby. "I'm not sure which one it is."

"Don't worry, I'll Floo Uncle Sev. He'll know straight off what one's safe for you."

"Thank you."

Draco leaned over and placed a light kiss on her cheek. "I'll see you after lunch."

"Okay."

"Why don't you try and get a little sleep. I can keep an eye on our mothers."

"It would probably help--"

"Right then, into bed with you." Draco stood and held his hand out to her.

Ginny looked at his outstretched hand then to his face. His expression while gentle was certainly uncompromising. Rather than argue the point, she placed her hand in his and allowed him to assist her to stand. He wrapped his arm around her waist and guided her to the bed. Once she was tucked in comfortably, Draco placed a lingering kiss on her forehead.

"I'll see to your lunch immediately so you can get some sleep."

"Thank you."

"Sweet dreams, love," he said with a wink.

Draco closed the door quietly behind himself. His step was lighter now than it had been since the day before. He felt as though the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders. With Ginny agreeing not to leave today, there was hope that they could work this out while they were still under the same roof and just a glimmer of hope that she'd decide to move in here with him before the wedding, once they'd sorted through everything. As he approached the grand staircase, Draco's heart began to sink. Molly Weasley's angry voice was drifting up from the foyer. All he needed was another row to have to sort out. Draco froze on the spot as his father's irritated tone responded to Molly's accusations.

Bloody hell! What did I do to deserve this? His thoughts raged for the few moments he stood still then he swallowed hard and continued on his path toward the staircase. Whatever needed sorting this time would be taken care of quickly and quietly. He'd also issue a warning to those involved about telling Ginny about their little spat. She did not need anymore to worry about at this stage.

With every step taking him closer to the feuding pair, he could hear more readily exactly what was being said and began to relax just a little. His father's tone while sounding incensed, held just a hint of mirth.

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

Narcissa led the visitors down the corridors toward the main staircase. Along the way she was politely pointing out different aspects of the Manor and receiving courteous compliments from the Weasley matriarch. Even the children were pointing out the portraits lining the walls and explaining who was within the frame, along with their relationship to the subject. Narcissa wished Lucius could have been here to witness their excitement as they told every one about his ancestors--their ancestors. As the group reached the halfway point on the staircase there was a distinct pop of Apparition from the foyer. All heads turned to see who had just entered the house.

Molly pushed her way past Narcissa and stormed down the rest of the stairs to confront the wizard who had just arrived. "How dare you!"

"Mrs. Weasley, I would say it's a delight to see you again, but for your obvious attack. I don't quite follow--care to elaborate?" Lucius knew exactly what she was on about, but would force the woman to explain herself regardless.

"Drake... you took him into a dungeon--"

"Ah, now I understand." Lucius eyed the two Aurors standing at close quarters behind Molly Weasley cautiously. He was curious as to why they'd not spoken up themselves and joined the witch in front of him in criticizing his actions. Though they were both glaring at him, but he could clearly see the confusion on their faces. An explanation would have to be offered at some point in full.

"Did you think you would get away with locking my grandson in stocks?"

Lucius didn't fail to notice the obviously confused look pass between the two wizards behind the loud redheaded witch. They clearly had no idea what was going on and whether this was to his benefit or not, Lucius was unsure. "I assure you, dear lady, I meant the boy no harm. He simply needed a scare to avert his penchant for wandering. I would hate to think I'd ignored the problem and something had happened to him at a later date..."

"You didn't have to employ such brutal methods."

"Brutal? I'd hardly think my methods brutal, considering the circumstances."

"No circumstances could ever excuse your treatment of Drake. What you did was barbaric!"

"You are aware of the full facts of Drake's little expedition that day?"

"He wandered away from your wife as I understand."

"Are you aware where it was I found him?"

Molly thought for a moment, a frown crossing her forehead. Ginny had not mentioned where Drake had eventually been found and she had assumed he was looking at the broomsticks in Quality Quidditch Supplies as usual.

"No? Well, allow me to enlighten you. I found Drake inside Borgin and Burkes."

Molly's eyes bulged from their sockets. "Borgin and Burkes, they're in--"

"Yes, they're located in Knockturn Alley. You see now why I was so stern with Drake. He could have been in serious danger." He noticed the two men exchange grave looks. They would have been fully aware of the danger Drake could have found himself in for just wandering close to the opening of the alley.

"But he wasn't, he was found--"

"This time. Next time we may not be so lucky. Hence my reason for being brutal, as you so eloquently phrased it. I rather thought it wise to discourage Drake from wandering ever again."

"I understand that, but to lock the boy in stocks boils down to common abuse--"

"I disagree. In fact, I rather feel that physical punishment is abuse." Lucius quirked an eyebrow at the witch before him and allowed a knowing smirk to curl the corner of his mouth.

Molly hesitated ever so slightly before proceeding warily. She didn't like the look on the wizard's face; it was as if he were in possession of knowledge she was not. "I did not accuse you of physically punishing Drake."

"No you did not."

"Then why bring it up?"

"Just comparing my family method with what I know of your family's ways."

"We do not physically abuse the children!"

"Really? Not according to Angelique. Apparently, trips to the broom shed with Uncle Bill are commonplace."

"I wouldn't call them commonplace. There is a time where a good spanking is the only option--"

"And there is a time where a good scare is the only option."

Molly Weasley stood in front of Lucius opening and closing her mouth soundlessly. She was speechless. He had indeed proven his point beyond a doubt. Bill had, in the past, been known to escort Drake to the broom shed for an old fashioned spanking and she was sure he wasn't the only one of her sons to take their belt to the little wizard's bottom. She and Ginny had certainly threatened, more than once, to take their own wands to the little boy's backside. And given where he was found Molly had no doubt that Drake would have earned himself a trip to the broom shed if the family had known all the details.

Somewhat pleased with himself at rendering the formidable Mrs. Weasley speechless, Lucius allowed his attention to drift up the staircase. Draco was making his way down. His expression was impassive, but Lucius knew his son better than to believe he was unconcerned about what he was certain to have overheard.

"Draco. How is Ginevra today?"

"A little tired right now, Father."

"I'll see to her lunch right away, so she can get some rest." Narcissa began to leave the foyer at once.

"She has a terrible headache, Mother. Do we have any safe potion for her to take?"

"I'll check while I arrange her lunch and if not I'll Floo Severus immediately." Narcissa swept from the foyer, leaving Lucius and Draco to escort their guests to the dining room.

"I have limited time for lunch. Shall we proceed to the dining room?" Lucius intoned congenially, offering his arm to Molly.

Draco watched as his future mother-in-law faltered for a moment before forcing a small smile and taking his father's arm. He released the breath he hadn't realized he'd been holding. Had Molly refused his father's offer, the situation could have deteriorated. She had to be feeling somewhat irate at being bested by someone he knew she didn't hold a great deal of respect for, and Draco had to admire her for having the graciousness to not pursue the matter further.

Lunch was an overly civil affair with the exception of Narcissa and Molly politely disagreeing with each other over everything. Their banter had grown so distracting that Draco had taken to answering for his mother before she could open her mouth to form a reply to anything Molly stated. Much to his relief, Harry had picked up on what was going on between the two women and had begun to do the same to Molly. With all their speaking for others, neither Harry nor Draco had much time to eat and, as such, when the rest of the table had finished their meal, the two wizards were still eating.

Narcissa laid her napkin on the table. "I might just pop up and check on Ginevra."

"I'll come with you." Molly hurriedly rose from her chair, bringing the Malfoy wizards to their feet.

"If you insist," Narcissa sniffed.

"Mother, perhaps you could take the children up with you. I'm sure Gin would love to spend a little time with them."

"Of course." Narcissa smiled sweetly at Draco. "Come along darlings, we'll go and visit your mummy."

When the women and children crossed the threshold into the corridor, the men sunk slowly back to their chairs.

Lucius looked to Draco quizzically. "Do you think it was wise to send the children with the women?"

"Better than allowing those two to go alone. There'd be blood spilt before they reached the first landing."

"Ah, your mother is in one of those moods?"

"Has been all morning."

"Malfoy, now that the women are out of the way, what the bloody hell was going on before in the foyer?" Ron had been chomping at the bit to satisfy his curiosity, but knew better than to bring the subject up in front of his already enraged mother.

"Small difference of opinion," Draco replied casually. He didn't really want to get into another discussion about the incident, at least not while Lucius was present.

"Didn't sound like a small difference of opinion to us." Harry pinned Draco with a serious gaze. Something had obviously gone on when he and Ron had left the bedchamber and they were determined to find out the details.

Lucius dabbed at the corners of his mouth with his napkin before discarding it and clearing his throat. "What I do find curious, if you don't mind me asking, you've just admitted that it didn't sound like a small matter yet you stood back silently while allowing an older witch to berate me. I would have thought, and was prepared for both of you to voice your opinions."

"We didn't know what was going on--"

"Mum can look after herself and if she needs help she only needs to signal," Ron scoffed. These people really did not know how formidable Molly Weasley was. She could certainly take care of the likes of Lucius Malfoy without assistance.

"I see."

"Well, what happened?"

Draco expelled a lung full of air and glanced at his father. They would have to explain, again, what had happened. All he could do was hope they wouldn't react badly. Between the two Malfoy wizards they slowly explained what had transpired at Malfoy Holdings on the day Drake had received his punishment. Lucius made certain to mention that he had stopped short of physical punishment and that he was aware that it was used within the Weasley household, a fact that Ron confirmed having visited the broom shed more than once as a child. While not entirely happy with what had happened, the fact that Drake was none the worse for wear and a subtle reminder from Harry that it was Ginny's choice as to what happened next, the wizards left the table still on speaking terms, for now.

Lucius returned to the office immediately, entrusting Draco to advise Narcissa of his whereabouts. The three wizards made their way leisurely back upstairs.

"Gin's not talking to you, is she?" Ron grinned humorously at Draco.

"No, not really."

Harry chuckled. "Thought so, the air's a bit thick around you two."

Draco was perplexed. He was careful to portray a normal disposition all morning, so the Weasleys wouldn't be able to tell that he and Ginny had trouble between them. "How could you tell?"

Ron and Harry just looked at each other and laughed.

"It's the look," Harry spluttered clapping Draco on the back.

"Yep, the look gives her away every time," Ron agreed once he'd caught his breath.

"The look?" Draco frowned at the two men.

Harry rolled his eyes at the blond; surely he couldn't have missed the chill in the air every time Ginny had glanced in his direction. "Every woman has one. You know the one that sends icy chills down your back."

Ron's disbelief was written all over his face. Every man in a relationship knew the look. "And can clear a roomful of men in two seconds flat..."

"Yeah, I know. I was hoping you guys hadn't picked up on it." Draco had no choice but to concede. They had noticed. Ginny's look would have made the Dark Lord himself quake in his boots.

"How could we miss it?" Ron almost shrieked at him incredulously.

Harry sobered and looked at Draco seriously. "So are you trying to work it out?"

"Yeah, I actually got her to laugh before I came down to lunch and I would have eaten with her if our mother's had been behaving themselves."

"What happened?" Harry kept his tone quiet and relaxed. Draco would either tell them or he would not.

"It's all to do with Drake's punishment and the fact that I didn't tell her when I found out what had happened."

Ron grimaced as if in physical pain. "Ouch... not like it was your doing."

"No, but I should have punished him myself or at least told Gin when I found out."

"You should have. So what are you doing to make it right?" Harry was intrigued. He wasn't confident that Draco had enough experience in mending matters of the heart and would offer help if he needed any.

"I keep trying to talk to her, but up until our mother's started at each other I didn't think I was making any progress. Now I don't know whether she was simply tired and knew I wouldn't snipe at her or she wants to believe me."

"If Gin didn't want to believe you, she'd tell you to get out." Ron knew his sister, perhaps better than anyone. She had never been polite for the sake of peace if she was angry with you.

"She's been doing that a bit, but just before lunch she didn't tell me to leave. I only left because we didn't want our mother's to end up killing each other."

Ron clapped him on the back. "Well then she's ready to talk."

They had reached the outer doors to Draco's suite and as he reached out for the door handle he realized that all was silent within. It struck him as odd. "I'll just check on Ginny, it's too quiet in there for the kids to be around."

"No problem."

Draco quietly let himself into the sitting room and silently crossed the floor to the bedchamber door. As carefully as he could, he cracked the door open just enough to see Ginny sound asleep in the middle of his bed. She looked so peaceful. He spent several minutes leaning in the doorway just watching her in slumber. The sound of someone clearing their throat from behind him disturbed his thoughts.

"Is everything all right?" Harry's head was the only part of his body visible from the other doorway.

"Yeah, she's sleeping soundly. I guess we should locate Mother and the twins."

"Any idea where they might be?" Harry asked as Draco stepped back into the corridor.

"Honestly? I haven't a clue."

The three wizards all looked up and down the corridor as if the empty space may give a clue as to everyone else's location.

"Suggestions?" Ron was concerned that, if left on their own for too long, his mother and Mrs. Malfoy may become dangerous. He, for one, did not wish to step between the two witches if it came to that, so it was easier to avert the problem by keeping a close watch on them.

Draco began to mentally cross off rooms within the Manor--they'd have heard them as they left the dining room if they'd gone to the parlor, the summer parlor wasn't yet open and he didn't think his mother would take Molly to her personal parlor. A list of possible locations began to form.

"We'll try the library first and go from there," Draco suggested. It was the most logical place for his mother to take them, after all the children spent a lot of time in that room and it was on this floor, he was certain they'd have heard them if they'd returned to the ground floor.

"Lead the way!" Ron was growing more anxious by the moment and even though the women had the children with them, he knew it wouldn't stop his mother from losing her temper with the blonde witch if she was pushed too far.

The library was devoid of people when the men arrived and Draco was about to start scouring his home room by room for the missing women when Millie appeared at his feet.

"Little Master, Mistress has said to tell Little Master that they is in Master Drake's and Miss Angelique's quarters."

"Thank you," Draco ground out as he glared at the two other wizards, who were just about falling over themselves laughing. "Don't even--"

"Little Master." Ron bowed in mock submissiveness between bouts of hysterical laughter.

Draco took a deep breath to quell the urge to draw his wand. He didn't think hexing a couple of Aurors would look good on his Ministry record. "My Father is the Master and the servants have simply carried on addressing me as they did when I was a child. When my parents retire the servants will address me as Master."

"Cute, mate. Real cute..." Harry was red in face from lack of oxygen.

"Let's just go and find everyone else," Draco muttered as he strode from the library.

As they walked up corridor that housed the children's chambers, Draco noticed Angel's door was open. Relieved that they had finally located the women and there were no obvious pools of blood along the way, he headed straight into his daughter's sitting room.

"Of course, Ginevra is designing rooms in the southern wing for the twins, but these rooms will remain here for them to use when their parents are away for the evening or simply if they wish to stay with Lucius and myself." Narcissa's light melodic tone drifted out from the bedchamber.

"The rooms are lovely," Molly agreed heartily. How could she not? Ginny and the children would have everything they could ever want for here. They would have luxuries Molly could only dream about giving her children and grandchildren.

Narcissa smiled warmly at the other witch. Like her husband, she could smell a victory. "They each have private bathrooms, but given their age it's much easier to bathe them together, so we usually take turns in using their baths."

"Grandma, come and have a look at my huge bath." Angel tugged on Molly's arm to get her to follow her across the room. "Daddy! I'm showing Grandma my room."

"That's great, princess."

Narcissa smiled deviously at her son. "Draco, you received my message?"

"Only after we went looking for you in the library."

"Ginevra was asleep and the children wanted to show Mrs. Weasley their rooms," Narcissa informed him lightly.

"I know, I checked on Gin."

"She's still sleeping?"

"Yes, she's sound asleep."

"Uncle Harry, Uncle Ron, come look at my bathroom," Angel squealed from the doorway of the smaller room.

Draco watched as the two men crossed the room. They were both in awe of their surroundings. Neither had ever pictured such opulence for the twins. Draco and Narcissa held silent, listening to the hushed conversation coming from the other room.

"Isn't it all just lovely," Molly exclaimed.

"Yeah, it's great," Harry agreed.

"Uncle Harry, look at my bath." Angel's excited voice drifted out bringing a smile to Narcissa's face.

"Merlin, I've seen smaller swimming pools."

"We had a word to Draco and Lucius." Ron's voice was deliberately lowered.

"So you know what happened?" Molly asked, her anger still boiling close to the surface.

"Molly, you need to let Gin handle this," Harry reasoned.

"I can tell--"

"Molly, you told him off. Okay? I had a hard enough time holding my tongue, while trying to kick Ron under the table so he'd keep it shut. I don't think Gin would want us sticking our noses in."

"I'll still be telling Arthur--"

"Actually, I think it's a good idea if we told everyone. That way if it ever comes up again there's no surprises."

"I'd like to give him a surprise. I wonder if we can get anything on him?" Ron growled.

"We'll talk to Gin later and see if she wants us to do something, but for now let's just play along. Draco did say he and Gin are sorting things out... we don't want to mess things up for them," Harry insisted.

"I wouldn't mind then everything would go back to normal." The smile on Ron's face could be heard in his tone.

"Yeah, and Gin would be a single mum with three kids. Face it, she'd be miserable without the ferret."

"I guess so, but if she says we can--"

"It's up to her."

Angel was waiting impatiently for the adults to finish their conversation. "Grandma, come look at my pretty robes!"

Everyone filed out of the bathroom and Angel pulled Molly across to her dressing room. Molly gasped at the amount of clothes the closets contained. Angel had enough clothes just at the Manor to dress ten little girls. While Angel was busy showing her Grandma her favorite top ten outfits and Ron was marveling at the bed hangings, Draco surreptitiously approached Harry.

"We heard your conversation and I just wanted to--"

"No need. It's up to Ginny what she wants."

"I understand."

After inspecting Drake's rooms in much the same manner the group decided to take a stroll to the stables so Angel could show her mount to everyone. Ron was still exclaiming loudly over Drake's rooms as they wandered out of the main house. He had always wanted a Quidditch themed bedroom when he was a boy and Drake's room had been done with such style that the wizard was almost jealous.

Later in the day, the group was enjoying afternoon tea in the parlor. Narcissa and Molly had given up sniping at each other for the time being and Draco was beginning to relax. Conversation was starting to drift toward the wedding, when a servant announced the arrival of Healer Wilson. Narcissa excused herself immediately to greet the aging Healer in the foyer and escort him upstairs. Not to be outdone, Molly followed close behind. The three wizards sat looking at each other, as if daring the others to follow the witches upstairs and play referee once again.

With a shake of his head and a heavy sigh, Draco rose from his chair. "I'll go, shall I?"

"She's your fiancée," Harry stated with a grin.

"Just give us yell if it starts getting nasty." Ron winked at him as he selected another pastry.

"So you can get a head start out the door?"

"You don't think I'm hanging around if those two start throwing hexes around?"

"Just leave the front door open as you leave so I can keep running as I come down the stairs."

Harry chuckled. "I think we can manage that."

Draco made his way to his chambers, catching up with the Healer just as they entered the bedchamber. He didn't necessarily want to get in the middle of their mothers, but he could hardly leave Ginny to cope on her own. He had a feeling that once the Healer started giving advice the two witches would, once again, begin their polite sniping at each other.

"Healer Wilson, how are you?"

"Draco, have you been looking after our patient?"

"Certainly have, sir."

"Good, well let's go and see her then."

Throughout the Healer's visit Molly and Narcissa constantly disagreed with each other and though their conflict was polite, the tension in the room was ominous. Molly even went as far as to question the elderly Healer about Ginny's need to stay at the Manor, insisting she would be far more comfortable in her own home. This prompted a hurried explanation from Narcissa as to the couples present living arrangements. It wasn't until Ginny spoke up, stating that she was more than happy to remain at the Manor for as long as her recuperation took, that the matter of her leaving was laid to rest. Not entirely satisfied, Molly grilled the Healer further on the exact condition of her daughter's health and what could be done to help her. With Narcissa gently cutting the Healer off whenever he was about to state that there was nothing truly wrong with Ginny that a little rest and regular meals wouldn't fix, and Molly pushing the issue, the situation quickly got out of hand. Draco finally stepped in and requested a private word with the aging wizard in the sitting room about his fiancée and unborn child.

After apologizing for the behavior of the two women, Draco escorted Healer Wilson to the front door. He assured the Healer that they would Floo his office if Ginny needed any further assistance before selecting a Mid-witch and bid him good afternoon. Draco closed the door behind the relieved man and rested his forehead against the cool wood. He had to go back upstairs. He didn't want to, but not to go could result in some very nasty business to explain to the Ministry or worse, to his father.

"Malfoy, is everything all right?"

"Gin, the baby?"

Draco turned slowly to face Harry and Ron. Both wore expressions of concern. "Yeah, they're fine. I was just contemplating going back upstairs."

"That bad?"

"Worse. If I'd left the Healer in there for another five minutes I think they would have flayed him. One for not giving adequate answers and the other for giving too much information." Draco sighed heavily and rubbed the back of his neck.

Harry took a step forward, his brow furrowed. "What's going on? Why wouldn't the Healer answer the questions properly?"

"Mother doesn't want Gin and the kids to leave. She can't wait for them to move in here fulltime. Molly, on the other hand, wants her at the Burrow." Draco paused, pursing his lips and considering his next statement. "The argument is irrelevant anyway. Ginny already agreed to stay here, she did that before lunch, but neither of them have thought to ask her."

Ron exhaled heavily. There was only one immediate solution to the problem at hand. While it went against everything he really wanted to do, he did owe the blond wizard a debt, for smoothing things over with Mr. Parkinson before he approached the man -- he had to help Draco. "We'll go up with you and see if we can't get Mum to come home now. The Healer has been here and he's seen Gin, so it's worth a try."

"I think Ginny would appreciate that. She's just about had enough of those two sniping at each other and once Molly leaves I can kick Mother out of my chambers with little fuss."

"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's go get them," Harry said with a whole lot more conviction than he felt. Both witches were formidable. He'd seen Molly Weasley in full flight before and had no desire to repeat the experience. Nor did he have any doubt that crossing wands with Narcissa Malfoy would be a walk in the park, she may be a pretty society wife, but Harry knew her talent with a wand was exceptional -- according to her file at the Ministry, at least.

Draco summoned Millie and ordered the servant to stay with the children until someone relieved her. Once the elf had disappeared into the parlor, the three men began to climb the stairs, each with a determined look on their face.

Draco's expression faltered as they reached the first floor landing and he muttered, "I could have done without all this."

"Bloody women," Ron sympathized.

Harry stopped in his tracks. "What are we going to do if things have already turned nasty?"

"Leave them to it--" Draco's face was perfectly serious.

Ron's eyes bulged at the thought. "Run!"

All was quiet as they approached the double doors to Draco's suite. The men looked at each other warily. Either they were getting along or they'd already killed each other.

"Well, what do you think?" Harry looked at Draco.

Draco listened carefully for a moment. "I don't think they've killed each other... I can't hear Gin."

"Wouldn't she be enjoying the peace and quiet if those two had done away with each other?"

"After today, she'd be celebrating," Draco assured them with a wry grin as he reached for the door handle.

The women were sitting in front of the fireplace, drinking tea and talking amicably to one another. Snippets of their conversation drifted over to the men in the doorway. They had resumed talking about the wedding. It seemed it was a subject they agreed upon, at least presently.

"Boys, how lovely of you to join us," Narcissa smiled over at them.

"Actually, I think it's time we got going, Mum," Ron said trying to sound casual.

"Already? What a shame." Narcissa sounded genuinely disappointed. "The men are still meeting on Saturday to discuss Drake's little problem, aren't they?"

"Yes, Mother. We're meeting here, after lunch," Draco informed her again.

"Well, you'll just have to come along with them and we can make some real progress on the wedding plans, Mrs. Weasley."

"If we're going to have these two married in six weeks we're going to have to get hopping on the arrangements," Molly agreed.

"I can start putting together a list of the people I usually use for functions and we can go over them on Saturday. Perhaps we should both start on guest lists as well. It would help if we knew how many we were catering for before we contact anyone for quotations."

"That sounds like a splendid idea. Well, I'll see you Saturday afternoon, Mrs. Malfoy."

"I'm looking forward to it, Mrs. Weasley."

"Ginny, dear take care of yourself and keep resting." Molly kissed her daughter's cheek.

"I will, Mum. It's not like Narcissa lets me do anything else."

Molly walked over and placed a kiss on Draco's cheek. "Draco, you take good care of them."

"Yes, ma'am."

"Draco, I'll walk Mrs. Weasley out. You stay here with Ginevra," Narcissa stated. "You two need some time alone before dinner. Where are the children?"

"They're in the winter parlor with Millie."

"Wonderful, I'll collect them and take them for a walk in the garden."

"Thank you, Mother."

Narcissa smiled sweetly at her son and turned her attention to Molly. "Shall we?"

As soon as the room had cleared Draco looked at Ginny suspiciously. "Do I want to know what caused that complete turn around in their attitudes?"

Ginny smirked. "Probably not."

He rolled his eyes at her. "You'd better tell me."

"I told them both off."

"You what?"

"After you left with Healer Wilson they kept going at each other over the silliest things, so I told them off."

"Merlin," Draco hissed. He was sure to hear about this later from his mother and from Ginny's brothers, the way his luck was running lately.

"I got tired of their sniping. I was tired of it five minutes after it started, this morning. So I told them I'd had enough and if they couldn't be civil to each other they could both leave the room."

"Okay. Mother took that exactly how?" As the words fell from Draco's mouth slowly, his mind was running through all the possibilities of what his mother might say or do to him -- none were pleasant.

"She shut up and sat down with a smile on her face."

"She did?" Draco looked incredulously at Ginny as he sat on the sofa next to her.

"Yes, she did and they actually started behaving like adults instead of spoilt little children."

"All right, what's done is done. So, what do you want to do? The twins are with Mother and our time is our own."

Ginny shrugged. "I don't know..."

"Do you feel up to talking?"

"Yeah, we probably should anyway."

"Good." Draco reached over and picked up both her hands in his. "Gin, I'm so sorry for everything that happened yesterday. If I could change what happened, if I could go back and take responsibility for my own son's actions instead of allowing my father to deal with him, I would. Even if I could go back and tell you before you found out in such horrid circumstances, I would. But I can't, all I can do now is apologize and hope that will be enough for you to forgive me. I don't want to lose you. I love you..."

"I think we need to set some ground rules to make sure this never happens again."

"If that's what you want to do, love, we can do that."

"First, I don't want your father punishing my... our children."

"That's fine, but what about your brothers?"

"What about my brothers?"

"I don't want them punishing our children either."

"They've--"

"Gin, I wouldn't punish their kids, so I think they can pay me the same respect."

"All right. Only you or I can punish our kids."

"Sounds good, but what if they're with someone else and they're naughty. Are they just supposed to let them get away with whatever it is they're doing?"

"No. They can tell them off verbally. In a well lit room that doesn't resemble a dungeon."

"Okay. We'll have to explain that one to father because I'm sure there'll come a time when he'll feel the need to talk to one of the kids again, especially once we're all living here."

"I... ummm..."

His heart sunk as she faltered and even though he didn't want to hear the answer, he asked evenly, "Gin, you still want to live here, don't you?"

"Is it that important to you that we live here?"

"It's my birth right. The manor becomes mine once I marry."

"Yours?"

"Ours."

"I thought your father--"

"He does, until I'm married. Then possession gets handed down to me. The same will happen when Drake marries. He's the heir and will inherit the manor."

"I didn't realize."

"The tradition is as old as time. Not that we couldn't upset it, if you really weren't happy. You're far more important to me than some house and there are other properties we could--"

"No, it's all right. I understand."

"Are you sure? We can move elsewhere, there are other properties."

"Yes, I'm sure. I guess I just have to sort things out with your father."

"It would make it easier to live under the same roof if you were at least civil to each other."

"Maybe we can clear things up after dinner with him. I think I'll feel better once that's out of the way."

"Not tonight, Gin. I was hoping we could have dinner together--just the four of us."

"Oh--"

"Mother and Father have some things to sort through too, so I thought we could have dinner up here with the kids and give them the night to themselves."

"All right, if you think that would be better."

"Yeah, I think it would. I'll speak to Father and see if he has any time tomorrow. The four of us need to sit down and work everything out as soon as possible."

"Okay."

"He asked after you at lunch."

"Did he?"

"Mmm... he does care about you, Gin."

"Me or the baby?"

"You. He asked after you, not the baby."

"That doesn't--"

"If he were only interested in the baby, he would have asked after the baby. I know my father, Gin. He doesn't inquire after people he doesn't care for."

They spent the rest of the afternoon talking quietly about what had happened. Draco must have apologized at least a dozen times during their chat and Ginny had still not verbally accepted his genuine regrets. Things weren't quite back to normal, she still didn't smile very much and her tone was a bit flat, but as he left the chambers to collect the children for dinner he felt positive they would work through this. The very fact that she was now talking to him and allowing him to hold her hand without pulling away was a very encouraging sign.

He found the children in the parlor with his mother. An owl had arrived for him from Hogwarts during the afternoon, but Narcissa thought it better to leave the two lovers alone. She knew Ginny was no longer in desperate need of the headache potion, as her earlier nap had helped to ease her pain and the missive that accompanied the potion was more than likely a message of congratulations on his impending fatherhood for Draco from his godfather.

After greeting the children and informing them of their plans for the evening, Draco unrolled the short note from his Uncle Severus.

Draco,

Your Mother informs me that you are once again to become a father. I cannot express deeply enough how disappointed I am not to have heard this news from yourself. However, I am sure this was merely an oversight in what must be an extremely busy time for you and Miss Weasley.

I have included a phial of the pain relief potion your mother requested. Ensure that Miss Weasley does not exceed three doses of the potion per day; doing so could be hazardous to not only her health, but also to the health of your unborn child. If you require further supplies do not hesitate to inform me. It is a difficult potion to brew and can result in disaster if the brewer is not competent.

In addition, I have taken the liberty of supplying you with the strongest contraceptive potion known to Wizardkind. I strongly recommend the use of this potion diurnally as soon as the baby is born. We wouldn't want any further unfortunate accidents.

Regards

S. Snape

Draco couldn't help the chuckle that escaped him as he rolled the parchment up again. Uncle Sev would never change. While he may be disgusted with the idea that Draco had once again gotten Ginny pregnant, he would do everything in his power to ensure she had everything she needed to make the pregnancy more comfortable for her. He still didn't trust anyone else to brew potions of certain levels for the family. His veiled warning regarding the difficulty of brewing the pain relief potion was proof that he'd not yet found another Potions Master he could fully trust.

After assuring his mother everything was well with Severus, Draco took the children upstairs for a family night. They'd have a quiet dinner and perhaps he'd play a game of Wizards Chess with Drake, while Ginny read to Angel. It would be the perfect evening. Then after the children were tucked safely into bed, perhaps she would let him hold her until she drifted off to sleep. He could hope at least.

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

Thursday morning dawned bright and warm, a day that promised more than a hint of the summer to come. Draco sent Narcissa shopping for the morning so he could have the Manor to himself and enjoy some quiet time with his family.

They spent the morning roaming all over the estate at a leisurely pace. The children running ahead of their parents only to turn around before they got too far away, and race back to their father's arms. There was much laughter and joy as the small family relaxed and enjoyed one another's company. Draco was relieved Drake had decided to behave himself. The little boy had barely put a foot out of line since the debacle on Tuesday. He was watching his mother closely, though and gauging her mood, but not making a fuss over anything. A small scowl was the only evidence that Drake was displeased with his father holding his mother's hand.

Lunch was a small picnic on the shore of the lake. The servants had brought the food down from the house and set everything up on a picnic blanket. All the family had to do was sit down and enjoy. As lunch progressed, Ginny began to grow more and more agitated. When she snapped at Drake for dropping a piece of treacle tart on the rug, Draco suggested that the children take a short walk while he spoke to Mummy. Not needing to be told twice, the twins walked away, hand in hand. He waited till they were out of hearing range before turning his attention to Ginny.

"What's going on?"

"Nothing."

"Gin, you were relaxed and I think, happy all morning. Now you're snapping at Drake for doing something he manages to do at every meal."

"I'm fine. Nothing is wrong."

"Is it the thought of speaking to Father this afternoon?"

"Maybe... I--"

"We could put it off, if you're not up to it."

"No. I'd rather get it over and done with. That way we all know where we stand."

"All right, but if it gets too much for you in there, you just give me the word and we'll get you out. Father will understand."

"I just want it over with."

"Okay. Why don't we go and do just that. By the time we get the twins settled with Millie, it'll be time to meet."

Ginny sighed heavily and looked out over the water. She knew she could have put the meeting off indefinitely and that Lucius would accept any reason to do so, but she knew she couldn't go on with the sense of foreboding that had been hanging over her any longer. It was time to clear the air between them, once and for all. "Yeah, let's go back inside."

Draco got to his feet. "I'll fetch the twins and we can head back."

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

After settling the children in Angel's sitting room with Millie, Draco and Ginny made their way downstairs to the parlor. The closer they moved to the parlor doors, the slower Ginny walked and the harder she gripped Draco's hand. Ginny stopped dead on the threshold of the room, her grip on Draco's hand so tight by this time that his fingers were tingling from lack of blood flow.

"Relax," Draco whispered in her ear.

"I am," she hissed back.

He smirked and quirked an eyebrow at her. "Could have fooled me."

"Draco, Ginevra. Did you have a pleasant morning?" Narcissa glided toward them. She had noticed Ginny's foreboding expression and felt compelled to at least try to put the young witch at ease.

"We had a wonderful morning, Mother. Didn't we, Gin?"

"Umm... yes... yes, it was lovely."

"Splendid! The children are settled?"

"They're with Millie. I think they've enough coloring projects to last a week and I set the wards on Angel's rooms so if they decide to venture out we'll know about it before they can get up to any mischief."

"Wonderful. I've arranged to have their afternoon tea sent up if we're not finished in here."

"Thank you," Ginny muttered.

"Oh, dear there's no need to thank me. Now let's get you a cup of tea before we begin." Narcissa had artfully looped her arm in Ginny's and began walking her across the room toward Lucius.

"Ginevra, I trust you are feeling well?" Lucius inclined his head slightly as he spoke.

"Fine ... thank you."

"Good. I wouldn't like for you to become upset again. I understand it is not good for the baby or, of course, yourself."

"I'm fine," Ginny growled between gritted teeth.

"Your tea, dear. Perhaps you would like to sit on the couch with Draco." Narcissa was playing the perfect hostess, however her attempts to put everyone at ease were failing dismally.

The tenser Ginny became, the more on edge Draco felt. He could just see the afternoon dissolving into a screaming match or worse. She seemed almost unable to move under her own compulsion at the moment, so he gently steered her toward the sofa and assisted her to sit down without spilling her tea.

Lucius and Narcissa sat on the opposite chairs to the sofa. Draco had expected his mother to sit next to Ginny and was surprised when she sat down next to his father. An uncomfortable silence followed. Everyone busied themselves sipping their tea, paying far more attention to the simple exercise than they would normally. No one truly wanted to begin the discussion, knowing how important a positive outcome was to the future of the family.

Draco cleared his throat loudly. The silence was almost deafening him and the longer it went on the more uncomfortable the atmosphere became. It was out of character for his father not to have taken control and Draco wondered briefly why he was sitting mute. He had to say something, anything to break the horrid silence. "Gin and I had a chat yesterday about the children."

Lucius raised an eyebrow at his son. "I presume you're going to elaborate."

"We've decided that Gin and I will be the only ones to punish our children. This means if there is a problem with one of the kids that you feel requires punishment, you bring the matter to our attention and we will deal with them."

"And if it is something I feel must be dealt with immediately for the children's safety?"

"You can verbally reprimand them, but that is all."

"In a well lit, open place," Ginny added harshly.

"If that is you wish." The corner of Lucius mouth turned up every-so-slightly at Ginny's instructions.

"It is, we discussed this for quite some time yesterday."

"And what of the Weasleys? Are they subject to the same regulation?"

"Yes, they will be given the exact same rules as you."

"Good. I rather feel that trips to the broom shed are a little archaic."

"And trips to the dungeon aren't?" Ginny made no effort to conceal the venom in her tone.

"Yes, they are--"

"Then why?" Ginny hissed at him.

"I was aiming to frighten Drake, nothing more. I certainly would never have harmed him."

"You told him not to say anything to anyone--you knew I wouldn't agree to your... your ways."

"Ginevra, I instructed Drake not to speak of our discussion because I considered the matter closed. I saw no need to revisit the issue after our little chat."

"You should have told me."

"In hindsight, yes, I should have told you, but I did not and we cannot change that now. All we can do is move forward."

"Not until I have assurance that this will never happen again."

"You have my word, it will not happen again. What I do find disturbing is the amount of fuss you've made over this incident when you allow your brothers to take a belt to Drake's bottom."

"Sometimes it's necessary to--"

"Yes, sometimes it is and sometimes it's necessary to scare the child into rethinking his actions."

"I don't agree."

"I would much rather be having this discussion with you now than having to arrange my grandson's funeral. I would have been unable to forgive myself if I had ignored his behavior and the worst had happened."

"I--"

"Gin, I think we can move on. It happened and it won't happen again--we've established that. We could keep going over the same ground all afternoon, but it won't change anything." Draco's tone was gentle but firm.

Ginny opened and closed her mouth a couple of times before settling with a nasty glare in Lucius' direction.

"Perhaps we should take this opportunity to clear the air entirely," Narcissa suggested.

"I don't follow you, Mother. I thought we had only one issue to discuss."

"I think your Mother is referring to a request I have of Ginevra."

Draco glanced at Ginny to make sure she was all right to continue then looked directly at his Father. "Go ahead."

"On Tuesday you referred to me as a Death Eater. Now, while I do not deny my past alliance with the Dark Lord, I would be grateful if my grandchildren did not become aware of my personal history."

"Are you afraid they'd hate you?"

"I'm not afraid of hatred, Ginevra. I've no doubt there are any number of wizards who hate me. I would like to think that I am able to form a relationship with my grandchildren on who I am today, not the person I used to be many years ago."

"Why shouldn't they know what you are?"

"Do you expect them to be able to understand at the age of five? I've no doubt they will one day discover my crimes against the wizarding world--"

"Don't you mean your crimes against their mother?"

"Ah, this is what all this fuss is about then?"

"Did you actually think I'd forget about the diary?"

"Forget? No. I hoped you had gotten over it--moved on. You did find it in yourself to trust my son--"

"He is not you!"

"Granted. All I ask is that you take into account the position I was in--"

"You tried to kill me--"

"No, that was never my intention."

"You knew what that diary would do--you must have!"

"I will admit I did know what the book would do, if used incorrectly. It is one of the reasons I slipped it into your cauldron. I had hoped, given your friendship with Potter that someone might have discovered the book's secret and destroyed it. I did not expect you to keep your silence. In fact, I counted on you reporting the qualities of the diary to someone as soon as you discovered them. Instead you appeared to keep them to yourself. I could do nothing more than sit by and watch as you got dragged further and further under its spell."

"If you didn't want to do it in the first place, then why? Why, when you knew the book could kill me?"

"As I said before, I was in a difficult position. I could have ignored or refused the Dark Lord's request and hoped that no one else had the stupidity to assist him in regaining a body. But if I did that and he returned, my life would have most certainly been ended in a most painful way--leaving Narcissa and Draco at his mercy. As it was, I chose my target cautiously. I chose someone I thought would not keep the diary to herself, someone who was close to Potter. Unfortunately, my plan failed and of course, we are all aware of the end result."

Ginny closed her eyes for a moment, mulling over the words Lucius had spoken. "You gave the diary to me so I would ruin He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named's plans to resurrect himself?"

"Yes. Had I not followed orders, I would have been killed and my family... I shudder to think what he would have done to them."

"I won't mention your past to the children, but I'm agreeing to do this for their sake, not yours. For some unfathomable reason, they seem to love you and I won't be responsible for breaking their hearts."

"I thank you for your discretion, Ginevra."

"You will want to think about the day they do find out, because they will and I suspect they will have questions for you."

"I think about that day constantly. I fear they will be harsh judges, far less forgiving than the Wizengamot."

"You underestimate their affection for you."

"Perhaps."

"We're making some wonderful progress today," Narcissa beamed around the room.

Lucius gave his wife a small smile in return and looked to Ginny again. "I believe your mother is coming on Saturday afternoon to discuss the wedding arrangements, Ginevra."

"Yes, Narcissa invited her back. We should make a start on them if we're going to get married before the baby is born."

"Absolutely. Perhaps your parents would like to stay to dinner."

"Oh... umm..."

"You could Floo your mum, Gin, and ask her," Draco suggested gently.

"Yes, I'll Floo her and see if they're free Saturday night."

"Good. I imagine the next few weeks are going to be somewhat busy for you. You will be careful not to exhaust yourself, won't you?"

"Yes, of course."

"There is so much to do before the wedding I hardly know where to begin," Narcissa chimed in.

"I'm sure you will manage, dearest. Ginevra, it would be wise to complete your orders for redecorating the southern wing, so it will be ready for your inhabitance before your wedding."

"You presume I'm still going to move in here?"

"No, Ginevra, I never presume anything of you. I am quietly hopeful that you are still agreeable to reside at the Manor."

Draco couldn't help but smirk. The banter between Ginny and his father was most entertaining. It seemed his father had finally found a worthy opponent.

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

After the children were tucked into bed, Draco returned to his own chambers to find Ginny soaking in bubble bath. It had been a most productive day. He felt pleasantly exhausted and most tempted to join Ginny in the bath, but he thought the better of it and remained in the bedchamber, leaving her undisturbed. She deserved some time to herself. He reclined on the bed and mulled over the events of the day.

He had her assurance that she would move into the manor. Not before they were married, but it was better than yesterday when he feared the answer would be a resounding no. Not that he would hold her to her decision should she change her mind. He wouldn't do that to her, especially after promising they could open one of the other properties - although, she seemed to have understood his desire to claim his rightful inheritance as the Malfoy heir.

She had worked through her differences with his father to a degree that they could be civil to one another, at least. He knew it would take a long time before she would trust Lucius entirely, if ever, but as long as they were openly communicating there was always hope. A smile drifted across his face as he remembered their repartee. His father had enjoyed the afternoon's conversation--once the nasty business of his old alliances was out of the way. Lucius had always admired strong spirited women and Draco had inherited his penchant for them as well.

He was slowly winning his way back into her favor. Draco knew that it was only through hard work that he was going to turn their relationship back around to what it had been last weekend. They were talking and that was a start. He could once again hold her hand without her pulling away in disgust and that was progress. All he had to do now was make her reach for his hand when she needed him--he knew this would be the hardest accomplish, but he was confident he could achieve her full devotion once again. His mind still boggled at how fast everything went so wrong, it seemed as though it had happened in the blink of an eye.

"Did you want to use the bathroom?"

He smiled over at her. She was so beautiful, standing there wrapped in his bathrobe, looking down at him. "If you're finished, I will."

"I'm done for the night."

"Can I tuck you into bed?"

"I have to get my nightgown on first."

"I'll he-- wait."

"It's all right, I can manage. You go have a shower."

"If you insist."

"I insist."

When Draco emerged from the bathroom, freshly showered, Ginny was already asleep. He smiled as he pulled the blankets up around her before going to the dressing room and completing his preparations for bed.

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

Ginny had woken on Friday morning feeling a little nauseated and more than a little exhausted. The day before had obviously wore her out more than she cared to admit. After much cajoling, Draco had convinced her to stay in bed for the much of the day. So she would not be alone, he stayed in the bedchambers with her and the children were flitting in and out as they pleased. A Floo call from Lucius interrupted a game of Wizard's Chess they were playing to keep her entertained. It was with trepidation that Draco walked back into the bedchamber--he was about to break a promise he had made to her and with the tenuous grip they had on their relationship at the moment, he didn't know how she would react.

"Gin, I have to go to the office for just a little while."

"I thought you said you were going to stay here with me."

"I'm sorry, love. I don't want to, but I have no choice. There's a problem with a major contract and Father needs me there."

"All right," Ginny sighed despondently.

"I promise, I won't be any longer than necessary, love."

"Daddy, can I come with you?"

"Angel, I don't think that's a good idea," Ginny replied before Draco could utter a word.

"I could take both the kids with me and give you a break, if you like? You could have a nap."

"Draco, you're going to work. Who will watch them while you're busy?"

"Father's secretary won't mind. She used to watch me all the time when I was younger."

"I don't know--"

"Gin, they'll be fine. They need to get out for a little while and it'll do you good to have an uninterrupted rest."

"Please, Mummy. Can we go?"

Drake wandered into the room and his ears pricked up at the sound of his sisters pleading. "Where are we going?"

"Daddy is going to take us to work with him!" Angel bounced excitedly on the spot.

Drake scowled. "I want to stay with Mummy!"

"I thought it would be nice to give Mummy a break. Don't you want to get out of the house for a while, mate?"

"No! I want to stay with Mummy!"

"Drake honey, it's all right you don't have to go, if you don't want to."

Draco sighed and ran a hand through his hair. "Fine. Looks like it's just you and me, princess."

"Do I have to get changed, Daddy?"

"No, what you've got on is fine."

Angel had been dressing as though she were a true princess everyday since arriving at the Manor. Her robes were custom made to the highest quality, the like of which most little girls would never own.

"Oh--" Her disappointed tone was clear to her father.

"If you want to you can change, but it's really not necessary."

"I want to!" Angel exclaimed as she ran for the door, calling for Millie.

Fifteen minutes later Angel hurried back into the room. She had changed into a beautiful soft mauve robe. It was one that Narcissa had tailored especially for her by her personal couturier and she wore this particular robe whenever the opportunity presented itself, much to her grandmother's delight.

"I'm ready, Daddy!"

"Great, we can get going then," he smiled indulgently at his excited daughter. "We'll be back as soon as possible, okay?" Draco leaned over and placed a light kiss on Ginny's lips.

"Okay."

"Is there anything you want while I'm out?"

"I don't think so--"

"All right, how about a surprise?"

"That would be nice."

"Good. Drake, you behave yourself and see that Mummy takes a nap, okay?"

"Okay, Daddy."

"Good boy."

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

Before leaving Angel with Lucius' secretary, Draco took her in to say hello to her grandfather. After Lucius had appropriately praised her beautiful robes and promised a gift if she behaved herself, Draco escorted her to the outer office and introduced her to his father's secretary. He admonished her to behave herself before returning to his father's inner sanctum.

An hour or so later Draco and Lucius emerged from the office. At Lucius' insistence, they showed Angel around the company and introduced her to some select employees. Many employees had heard of the infamous Miss Angelique Malfoy, after the boardroom incident on her birthday. She was the epitome of a well brought up aristocrat, greeting everyone politely and even offering her hand in a ladylike manner. The few days she had been at the Manor, Narcissa had been schooling her in etiquette whenever she had the children alone for more than five minutes and the lessons she had had were certainly paying off. Lucius couldn't have been more proud as he paraded her around the office.

After leaving the office, Draco and Angel wandered through Diagon Alley looking for the perfect gift to surprise Ginny. They had purchased some fine chocolates and a few romance novels of the type she seemed to favor. Draco wasn't satisfied with what they had so far -- he wanted to get her something special, something unexpected.

As the strolled past Gemma's Glorious Gems, Angel gasped loudly. She dragged Draco by the hand to the window display.

"Oh, Daddy! Look at the pretty tiara's!"

"Princess, we're supposed to be looking for a present for Mummy."

"There might be something in the tiara shop for Mummy," Angel said hopefully. She was desperate to take a closer look at the pretty tiaras in the window display.

"Do you think so?"

"Oh, yes! Mummy likes sparkly things."

Draco looked at his daughter doubtfully. Ginny only wore jewelry when they went out somewhere special, unlike his mother who wouldn't be caught dead without a full compliment of precious gems. "All right, we'll go have a look."

Angel beamed as Draco held the door open for her to step through into what she considered to be heaven. As they entered the store, a display in the middle of the floor caught Draco's attention immediately. Angel drifted quietly over to a large display cabinet holding tiaras of all shapes and sizes. Draco stopped in front of the central display. The tall glass case held only a few pieces of exquisite jewelry.

It was the color of the gems in the cabinet had caught Draco's eye more than anything. They were blue to purple, a stone he had not come across before. A delicate white gold bracelet caught his attention.

"May I be of some assistance, sir?"

Draco was so absorbed in studying the bracelet he had failed to notice a shop assistant approach. "The gems... what are they?"

"Tanzanite, sir. Quite rare, lovely set in white gold or platinum. The lighter colored metal seems to set off the extraordinary coloring of the stones beautifully."

"The bracelet there... those are diamonds?"

"Yes, sir, flawless white diamonds. Seven per setting, the central one is larger than those surrounding the three tanzanites in each setting. Each of the ten settings is linked with a thin white gold rod."

Draco smirked to himself. He found the perfect gift for Ginny. It wasn't large or overstated, but it was pretty and rare, just like her. "I'll take it!"

"Sir, that particular piece is one hundred and fifty Galleons," the sales assistant said snootily.

"Does that include gift wrapping?" Draco sneered at the young assistant.

"Gift wrapping is free of charge, sir."

"Good, see that it is wrapped."

Angel tugged lightly on Draco's sleeve. "Daddy?"

"Yes, princess?"

"Daddy, can you come and look at the tiaras?"

"Angel, we came in here to find a gift for your mother, not for you."

"But, Daddy, I really want one of these--"

"Angelique, I'm not buying you anything today."

"But, Daddy... please!" Angelique looked sweetly hopeful at her father.

Draco sighed, he couldn't refuse her and it was useless to fight it. "Show me which one you favor."

Angel led Draco by the hand to the large display case and squealed as she pointed her finger at a silver tiara decorated with amethyst studded floral hearts and sets of three fine silver mesh leaves anchored to the base with white diamonds. "That one, Daddy! Isn't it pretty?"

"Yes, it's pretty."

"Can I please have it? Please, Daddy?"

"Angel, your mother would hex me seven ways to next Sunday if I bought that for you without a good reason."

"But I want it and that's a reason."

"Angel--"

"Please, Daddy?"

Draco gritted his teeth and steeled himself against further pleading. "No. I'll keep it in mind for a special occasion, but you're not having it now."

Her lower lip began to tremble and a whimper escaped her. "Daddy?"

"I mean it, Angelique. If you continue, I won't even consider the tiara for a special occasion."

Angel sniffed exaggeratedly and made a fuss of wiping her face clean of imaginary tears, and then she looked up at Draco with the saddest eyes she could conjure.

"Angel, don't look at me like that--"

"Is there anything else I can help you with today, sir?"

"No."

"Very well, if you'd like to come this way."

"Angel, are you coming to the counter."

She shook her head and turned to once again examine the tiaras in the display.

Draco moved to the counter to pay for Ginny's bracelet. He cast a glance over his shoulder at Angel, who was still wiping her cheeks and sniffing lightly. "I'll take the amethyst tiara in the cabinet as well, but I'll have it picked up later."

"Very well, sir." The assistant moved to retrieve the tiara.

"Can you wait till we leave the store? It's a surprise--"

"Of course, as sir wishes. Will you be paying for it now?"

"Yes, of course."

"That will be two hundred Galleons all together, and how will sir be paying today?"

"Gringotts note."

The assistant busied himself preparing the appropriate documentation for a moment before placing a parchment in front of Draco and offering him an inked quill. "Your details, sir."

Draco took the offered quill, filled in his vault details and signed the bottom of the Gringotts note then pushed the parchment across the counter to the assistant.

"Thank you--" The assistant paused to read the name at the bottom of the parchment. His eyes opened wide when he realized who was standing in front of him. "--Mr. Malfoy. A pleasure doing business with you, sir."

Draco sneered at the assistant as he placed Ginny's gift in his cloak pocket. "Angel, let's go, princess."

"Yes, Daddy," she responded morosely as her eyes wandered over the cabinet for a final time before she followed her father out into Diagon Alley.

"We should get ourselves home, before your mum begins to think we've run away."

Angel giggled at the thought as she took her father's hand and they walked toward the Apparation point at the end of Diagon Alley. They had just entered the courtyard behind The Leaky Cauldron when a large wizard walked came out of the establishment.

"Malfoy!"

"Goyle!"

The two men shook hands and slapped each other on the shoulder. "I haven't seen you since Zabini's wedding. How have you been, Greg?"

"Good, and you?"

"Good. What have you been up to?"

"I've been busy with work. I haven't caught up with anyone since the wedding."

Angel gave Draco's hand a tug. "Daddy?"

"Yes, sweetheart?"

"Daddy! Did your playboy ways finally catch up with you, Malfoy?"

"Oh, yeah. This is my daughter, Angel. Angel, this is Mr. Goyle, he's an old friend of mine."

"Hello, Mr. Goyle," Angel greeted him politely.

"Hello, Angel. How old are you?"

"Five."

"Really? Well, Malfoy, even I know things don't work that fast. You haven't mentioned a daughter in the last five years, and I haven't attended your wedding--"

"It's a long story. Don't worry, Greg, you didn't miss my buck's night. I'm not married yet, but be watching for my owl really soon."

"Daddy?"

"What is it, sweetheart?"

"I have to go--"

"We'll go in a minute."

"Soon hey? Wouldn't be her mother, would it?"

"Yeah. We're getting married as soon as we can arrange everything--"

"Daddy! I really have to go--"

"Excuse me, Greg," Draco apologized before turning to his daughter. "Angel, I'm talking. We'll go when I'm finished talking to Mr. Goyle and not before."

"But, Daddy--"

"No buts, Angelique!" Draco gave her a stern look before looking back to Greg Goyle. "Sorry about that, Greg. I don't know what's up with her manners."

"It's all right mate, kids are kids."

"Yeah, I'm learning fast!"

"So, who's the lucky witch?"

"Do you remember Ginevra Weasley?"

"You're marrying a Weasley?"

"Yep!"

"What does your father say about that?"

"He rather likes the idea, actually."

"I don't believe it--"

"It seems he's grown rather fond of his grandchildren."

"Grandchildren? There's more than one little Malfoy running around?"

"Angel has a twin brother, Drake and we have another on the way -- due in December."

"So it's true what they say about that family's breeding power."

"I don't know about that, mate, but I feel like the luckiest wizard on earth. I've got two amazing kids and a beautiful, intelligent fiancée."

"That's really great, I'm happy for you."

"Thanks--" Draco frowned as the sound of Angel's quiet sobbing interrupted him. He shot an apologetic glance at his friend before squatting in front of his upset daughter. "Angel, what's wrong sweetheart?"

"I-- I-- couldn't hold onnnn--" Angel's wails rose above the noise from coming from the bustling shoppers around them.

People were beginning to stare and point at them as Angel's howling grew ever louder. Draco did the only thing he could think of to quiet her -- he scooped her up and held her close.

"Come up here, sweetheart. Shhh. Can you tell me what's wrong?"

"I--I could--n't ho--hold onnnnn--"

Draco frowned, he wished he could figure out exactly what she was on about, but he wasn't yet adept at five-year-old distress talk. His frown deepened when his hip began to feel quite warm where Angel was sitting. A grimace formed on his face as an inkling of what may be the problem dawned on him. "Angel, love, what couldn't you hold on to?"

Greg tried to suppress a chuckle as he looked at a puddle on the stone street where Angel had been standing before Draco had picked her up. "Malfoy, I think you've got a problem."

Draco looked toward the puddle. His look of disgust was the last straw for Gregory Goyle who burst into laughter.

"I think, I should get her home," Draco muttered. "I'll owl you -- we'll get together for a drink soon."

"Looking forward to it, mate."

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

Narcissa was descending the staircase as Draco Apparated into the foyer of Malfoy Manor with Angel clinging to him, still sobbing loudly.

"Oh dear, whatever is wrong?" Narcissa glided over them, concern etched into her porcelain features.

"Umm... Angel had an accident--"

"An accident! Oh, darling, tell Grandmother where it hurts. Draco, what happened?"

"Not that type of accident, Mother. Angel isn't hurt. She--err--"

"I don't follow you, dear."

"Mother, I'd really like to get her into a bath and I think I need a shower myself."

Narcissa was quite perplexed as to what the problem may be, but she felt Angel might be able to tell her more once Draco was otherwise occupied. "Of course, darling. I'll take care of Angelique, you take a shower if you need one."

"Thank you, Mother."

"Angelique, darling can you walk?"

A slight nodding of her head prompted Draco to put Angel on her feet. She wouldn't meet anyone's eyes and even as she took her grandmother's outstretched hand she kept her gaze cast to the floor.

"Draco, your cloak is wet. Is it raining?"

He screwed his face up in disgust as he pulled his clothes away from his skin. "No, no it's not raining."

Narcissa's browed furrowed in confusion. "Then--" She stopped speaking as Draco looked pointedly at Angel. Closer inspection of her granddaughter revealed her clothing was also wet in places. "Oh, I see. Come along, Angelique. We'll get you into a bath then some fresh clothes."

Angel's chin trembled and a whimper escaped her.

"Darling, it's all right. Accidents happen. We'll go and have a lovely bubble bath," Narcissa cajoled her as they ascended the staircase.

Draco followed them up, at a distance and went to his own rooms. He entered as quietly as he could, hoping that Ginny might be asleep, but she wasn't. Drake was sitting up on the bed right next to his mother and they were reading a book together.

"Hey you two!"

"Hi, Daddy."

"Did you get everything finished?"

"Yeah, all sorted. Did you have a nap?"

Ginny cast her eyes down and wouldn't look at Draco. "A small one."

He smirked knowingly. The witch couldn't lie to save herself. "Drake, did Mummy have a nap?"

"Nope."

"I see." Draco gave Ginny a pointed look that told her unequivocally that he was not impressed. "I'm going to take a shower."

"Why are your robes wet?" Ginny frowned at the large wet patch on Draco's normally immaculate robes.

"Tell you later," Draco called over his shoulder as he made his way into the bathroom. He desperately wanted to get his wet, slightly smelly robes off and into a hot shower so he could wash away that warm, sodden feeling from his skin. He knew he would never be able to wear these robes again, without remembering the smell emanating from them now and the feel of them sticking to his skin.

With a towel slung around his hips, Draco emerged from the bathroom and crossed to his dressing room. He was freshly scrubbed and feeling a lot better about himself, though the warm irritated feeling hadn't yet left his hip he was confident it would fade with time or distraction. Ginny and Drake were still engrossed in the dragon book they had been reading together and only glanced up briefly when he crossed the room. A mercy Draco was grateful for, he had Ginny's surprise present in his hand, hidden by his leg as he walked past. While dressing Draco remembered he had yet to alert his father to pick up Angel's gift from Gemma's Glorious Gems. An owl to the office would have to be the first thing on the agenda. He was confident the tiara would put a smile back on his daughter's face and was now glad he had secretly conceded to purchase the trinket.

From the small unobtrusive desk in the corner of his bedchamber Draco retrieved some parchment and a quill, to pen a short missive to his father. He heard Ginny clear her throat but didn't turn around, hoping she wasn't trying to gain his attention.

"Draco?"

"Yes, love?"

"Are you going to tell me what happened?"

"Just have to get the urgent owl off to Father and I'll tell you everything."

"You just left your father, what could be so urgent that you can't tell me what happened now."

"Gin, just let me get the owl off and you'll see later why it was so urgent that I contact Father." Draco cocked his head to the side and listened carefully. He could hear his mother's heels clicking on the corridor floor, she was coming closer and by the sounds of it she was on a mission.

"Draco Malfoy!"

Draco cringed. Narcissa's tone could only mean trouble for him. "Mother?"

"Why did you not take Angelique to the bathroom? Is talking to your friends more important than your own daughter's comfort? Really, I thought I'd raised you better than that!"

Ginny sat up straighter in the bed. "Draco? What happened?"

He ignored Ginny's question and focused his attention on his mother. Once he had dealt with her then he would explain the whole ordeal to Ginny, calmly. "I didn't realize she had to go to the bathroom, Mother."

"She told you--"

"No. All she said was 'I have to go', I didn't know she meant to the bathroom or I would have found a lavatory right away."

"She's distraught."

"I am aware of that."

"You could have cast a drying charm at the very least!"

"Mother, she was attracting attention with her crying. I simply wanted to get her out of there. Now, if you'll excuse me, I do have a plan to replace the smile on her face and push the incident to the dark recesses of her memory."

"And that would be?"

Draco knew Narcissa wouldn't leave him be until she approved of his plan to redeem himself in his daughter's eyes. "Perhaps we could step into the sitting room and I'll explain."

Narcissa lofted her chin and regarded her son warily before turning on her heel and walking out to the sitting room. Draco picked up the note he had prepared for Lucius and followed without looking at Ginny. He knew if he glanced at her he would find questions in her eyes. She would be informed, but not while Drake was within earshot.

As Draco closed the door to the bedchamber, Narcissa spun around to face him. "Well?"

"I purchased a gift for Angel before this happened, it's sure to bring a smile to her face and she'll forget all about the rest of the afternoon."

"Oh... and what did you buy?"

"A tiara. I was looking for something special for Gin and Angel spotted a tiara she wanted. She doesn't know I bought it. I'm owling Father to pick it up for me."

"You bought Ginevra a gift?"

"Yes, Mother. Just a little something to say how sorry--"

"Draco, you cannot buy a woman's trust."

"I wasn't trying to. I just wanted to get her something nice, to let her know how much I love her."

"And a trinket will tell her that?"

"Yes--maybe. I don't know, will it?"

"No, it won't. From what I know of Ginevra, she will see it as a ploy to buy your way back into her good graces. Darling, you have to make your relationship strong on your own first then you can shower her with trinkets."

"But whenever Father upsets you he simply buys you a pretty bauble and everything is fine again." Draco was thinking of the new jewels Lucius had purchased after spending two nights on the 'couch'. It depended on just how deep a hole Lucius had dug himself as to what was offered to ease the burden of guilt on his soul. A pair of earrings or a necklace would usually suffice, but this time he had bought Narcissa an entire set of jewelry -- tiara, earrings, necklace, choker, ring, and bracelet.

"No, Draco. Your father may buy me a gift, but it isn't accepted until he has made good on his own. It would be wise to remember that words hold more power than actions."

"So what do I do then?"

"Talk, darling."

"We've talked, but she's still--"

"Guarded?"

"Cold--"

"Understandably. You abused her trust and with one of her most precious assets--her son. Talk some more, perhaps a different setting. Tell her you love her."

"I have."

"Tell her again and again, if necessary."

Draco nodded thoughtfully. He would take Ginny for a walk this afternoon, just the two of them. "Mother, would you watch the twins this afternoon?"

"Of course, darling."

"Thank you. I'd better get this owl to Father so I can fix the mess with Angel."

"You didn't tell me what you got for Drake."

"I didn't get anything--" His voice trailed off as Narcissa gave him a reproachful look. "What?"

"Draco, you cannot buy for one and not the other."

"But she was with me--"

"Don't worry, I have something in mind for Drake. Something he will enjoy immensely. Give me the owl for your father, I'll add a note to the bottom of it and he can pick both gifts up on the way home."

Draco handed the parchment over. "I'd better go explain everything to Ginny, before she gets too worried."

"I'm sure she'll understand, once you explain."

"Yeah, I hope so."

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

Ginny had not only accepted Draco's explanation for what had happened in Diagon Alley with Angel, she actually found it quite amusing. Something that relieved Draco greatly, it could have blown out to be yet another problem for him to fix.

With the children safely in Narcissa's company for the afternoon, Draco and Ginny ambled along the bank of the lake. The warm spring sunshine was tempered with a light breeze blowing across the water. It was a perfect afternoon for a romantic stroll.

"How do you feel?"

Ginny smiled up at him. "I'm good."

"Good." Draco was at a loss for words, he'd said everything he should say to make amends at least a dozen times, if not more, over the last few days.

They walked along in silence for a while longer, heading toward a small grove of trees close to the shore. Draco was searching for the right words to say and Ginny was pondering all that he had said to her since Tuesday afternoon.

"I'm glad you and Father seemed to have worked things out."

"If he keeps his word, we won't have a problem."

"He will. My father's word is good. He won't overstep the boundaries you placed on him."

"I hope not."

"Gin, we're all right, aren't we?"

"Yes, Draco. We're all right."

"It's just... well, you don't--"

Ginny stopped walking and turned to face him. "Draco, we're all right. I don't know what else to say. It's been an awful week, I just want to put it behind us and move forward."

"We can do that, I just want to make sure this issue is over and done with totally before we move forward. I don't ever want to spend another week like this."

"I still hold reservations about moving in here. I can't seem to shake them, but I do understand why it's necessary for you to take control of the manor."

"I told you we could open one of the other--"

"No, it's your right as the heir and I can respect that. What I don't understand is if once you marry and the manor becomes yours, why don't your parents move out?"

"Tradition, plus I couldn't ask them to do that. Mother and Father will begin to travel a lot, so most of the time it will be just us."

"I know, your mother told me of the plans she's already making."

"They may move out one day. Mother always said she'd like to live in France or Italy for while so there's hope." He gave her a wry grin. "If I was ready to take over the company, Father would retire and we'd probably only see them fleetingly, between trips abroad, but I don't want to spend all that time in the office, away from you and the kids. My father works long hours, Gin, and I would be expected to do the same -- I'd have to do the same to keep the company running."

"I know and I don't want you at the office all the time either, though it will eventually become necessary because Lucius won't work forever."

"We've already discussed it. He'll ease me into it. The holidays Mother's planning are the start. I'll have a few weeks of total responsibility, but I'll be safe in the knowledge that Father is returning to retake the helm."

"So you're going to start working longer hours right away?"

"No, love. After we're married, Mother and Father will start traveling a little more -- just short trips at first then they'll increase in length as time goes by, if Mother can stand to be away from the children for that long. Eventually, Father will retire, but he's not ready to yet and besides I think shopping with Mother all day, every day would drive him to an early grave."

Ginny laughed lightly. "Somehow I just can't imagine your Father trailing behind your Mother, holding her packages while she shops."

"It's not a pretty sight, believe me." He encircled her with his arms. "I love you so much."

"I love you too, Draco," she whispered as he head lowered to hers.

Draco captured her mouth tenderly. Relief washed over him as the gnawing fear in the pit of his stomach that she would push him away as soon as he tried to touch her vanished. It had been too long since he had held her like this, kissing her with all he had and he was making the most of it today.

Ginny stepped closer to him, bringing her body flush with his and her hands crept under his cloak to clutch at his back. His tongue slid over hers and she felt as though every fiber of her body were on fire. She could feel his hands through her robes, gently caressing her back and drifting down further to her backside, pulling her in even further. His arousal was becoming evident, twitching against its restraints and pressing into her stomach. She lightly sucked on his tongue and felt rather than heard his moan of pleasure. The familiar ache between her legs was intensifying. It had been almost a week since they'd enjoyed the intimacy of one another and Ginny thought she might very well explode if she didn't touch him soon. Her hand slid between their bodies and caressed his persistent erection through his trousers.

"Oh, Gin baby, I need you now," Draco moaned as his mouth ran down her neck.

Without waiting for a response his hands came up and released the clasp on her cloak. With a gentle nudge, the cloak slid off her shoulders to pool at her feet. Draco brought his hands straight to the zipper in her dress. She felt tingles of anticipation run up and down her spine as he slowly took the fastener down to her hips. Draco brought his hands up to her shoulders and smoothly rolled the garment down to her waist. As the light spring breeze lit upon her skin she trembled, but whether it was from the cool air or caused by Draco's ministrations she couldn't tell.

His gaze came up to meet hers. His eyes glazed over with lust. "I'll spread your cloak out. We can't have you getting cold."

Ginny nodded briefly and he picked her cloak up, quickly spreading it on the green grass. Once she had sat down, Draco took up position opposite her. He sat regarding her with his slate gray eyes, his hands almost aching to touch her. Her chest had taken on a red flush, giving her a rosy glow and her hardened nipples were clearly visible through the light satin of her bra. Draco unconsciously licked his lips as the thought of what she would taste like ran through his mind. He wanted to take one of her hardened peaks into his mouth and tease it mercilessly until she begged for release.

"I think you're over dressed." Ginny's voice was thick with lust as she leaned forward. She could feel his gaze caressing her, his eyes blazing a trail of fire across her skin followed by a delicious chill. Draco's earlier ministrations had helped her along, but his current scrutinizing had her body demanding attention.

Ginny released the silver double-headed snake clasp on Draco's cloak and slid it from his shoulders. With the rich fabric bunched in one hand, she grinned nefariously at him and tossed it over her shoulder. Her eyes widened in surprise when a small gift-wrapped box escaped his airborne cloak and landed not far from her.

"What's that?"

"Oh, I forgot I had that." Draco leaned over and picked up the box.

Ginny tried to contain an excited smile. "It looks like a gift."

"It's just a little something to--" Draco paused as he remembered his mother's advice -- words are more powerful than gifts. With everything going so well this afternoon, he didn't want to screw things up again so he chose his words carefully. "It's a little something I spotted today and knew you'd appreciate."

Ginny accepted the small box, gift wrapped in sparkling green paper with a delicate silver bow with a beaming smile. "Thank you."

"Well, aren't you going to open it?"

She giggled as she removed the bow and stripped the box of the beautiful paper. It was so like Draco to have his old house colors reflected in the wrapping of a gift. The black leather box had the tiniest brass hinges and a small catch. Ginny flicked the catch with her fingernail and slowly opened the box.

A gasp escaped her as the bracelet came into view. "It's beautiful."

Draco took the box from her hands and removed the bracelet. He picked up her left hand and slipped the trinket on her wrist. As he did the purple-blue gems caught the sunlight and sparkled, making the diamonds appear to be the same color. "They're tanzanites, very rare and extremely beautiful -- just like you, my love."

"Oh, Draco--"

She threw her arms around his neck and her lips met his gently at first, then gradually the pressure, the need between them grew. His hand came up to tangle in her hair and the other cupped her backside, drawing her into the hard plains of his body. The heat of her body pressed against him was setting his senses on fire. He felt overly hot all of a sudden and had an urgent desire to shed the rest of his clothing.

As if reading his mind, Ginny's hands began working at pulling his shirt from his pants. His tongue gliding over hers was increasing the deep needful throbbing between her legs to a point where it would not be ignored any longer. She wanted to feel his skin against hers, the urge was almost primal and she could do nothing more than act upon it. With a hard tug Ginny pulled his shirt free of his pants and brought her hand around to begin work on the buttons. A frustrated growl escaped her as the buttons refused to move, followed by the unmistakable sound of fabric tearing. Ginny tore his shirt open and with his chest now exposed, her hands began to explore immediately, caressing his muscular torso with needy hands. She rolled his nipples between two fingers and he groaned into her neck, causing her to tremble in his hold.

Impatient to feel more of her, Draco pulled her dress up to her hips and slipped his hand into her knickers. Ginny's need grew with every stroke of his talented fingers, her body aching for release. Her hips began to roll against his hand, furthering her ascent toward ecstasy. Her hot breath sent chills up and down his spine as Ginny brought her face closer to his chest. She replaced her hands with her mouth trailing wet kisses across his chest and seizing each of his nipples between her teeth while her hands busied themselves at his belt buckle...

Once sated, Draco collapsed bonelessly onto Ginny. Both lay shuddering in the afterglow of their union. Neither interested or energized enough to move quite yet. At some point Draco withdrew from her and reached for his cloak. He draped it over their partially naked forms before taking her into his arms and holding her gently.

As the sky began to turn from shades of rose to violet they dressed and began to make their back to the main house. They didn't hurry as they walked wrapped in one another. To return to the house -- the family -- would mean a return to reality and the memory of the problems they had only just overcome.

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