Dragon and Angel

CHAPTER FIFTY TWO

A REAL FAMILY

Draco rolled over and swatted at the thing hitting his face. If it were a servant, he'd punish the creature for a week for disturbing the wonderful dream he'd been having. He was just drifting back off to sleep when again his head was assaulted by something, but this time a clue to his assailant was given by way of a small giggle. Draco cracked an eye open and sure enough Drake was sitting up beside him trying not to laugh aloud. This time when his son brought his hand up to tap him on the head, Draco was ready and he grabbed his small hand before it made contact with its target.

Drake gasped as his father's hand shot from under the covers to wrap itself around his wrist. "Daddy, you're awake!"

"I am now, thanks to you."

"Grandma said I had to wake you up for work."

"Grandma?"

"Uh huh, she said they shouldn't let you near any of the beds in this house after a certain time 'cause you fall asleep every time."

"I fell asleep again," Draco moaned. "Is Mummy upset with me?"

"She giggled when I told her you were in my bed." Drake was quite put out when his mother laughed as he'd complained to her about Daddy sleeping his bed. Even though Drake had pulled the blanket over Draco and had not told anyone he'd fallen asleep, he was placing the blame solely on his father's shoulders for his poor night's sleep.

Draco sighed with relief. "There's hope for me then."

"Daddy?"

"Yes, mate?" Draco sat up and swung his legs over the side of the bed.

"Why do you snore?"

"I don't snore!"

"Yes you do, you snore really loud." Drake nodded in affirmation for emphasis.

"I don't bloody well snore," Draco mumbled.

"Oh, I see someone else has found out your dirty little secret." Ginny was leaning in the doorway. She'd heard the entire conversation between the two wizards and found Draco's denial wholly amusing, not that she was about to let him know.

"I don't--" Draco's refutation fell short as both Drake and Ginny nodded.

"Mum said to tell you that breakfast is ready."

"Yummy! I'm starving!" Drake scampered from the room quickly.

"I'll be down in a minute," Draco responded cautiously. Her tone was a little too cool for his liking and it could only mean he was not in her good graces at the moment.

"Okay." Ginny turned to leave then stopped and smiled wickedly at him. "Oh and if Drake's grumpy today, you only have yourself to blame."

"Me? What did I do?"

"Not only did you keep him up half the night with your snoring, but apparently you're a blanket thief as well."

"I--" Draco stopped when he realized he was talking to a vacant doorway. A grumpy son was not what he needed today and it didn't look like Ginny was going to be of any help in controlling his son's attitude.

He rose from the bed, rubbing his hands over his face in an attempt to wake himself up properly. She was obviously annoyed with him for falling asleep on Drake's bed last night, but how annoyed he wasn't sure. Her tone of voice and the fact that she hadn't entered the room spoke volumes. Even though Drake said that she'd giggled when she found out he'd slept in his son's bed something was obviously bothering her and the only thing he'd done was fall asleep when he was meant to come back to her in the front room. He sighed despondently. It was too early in the morning to contemplate being killed.

Draco wandered to the bathroom and threw some water on his face. He grabbed a towel and patted the water away. "Ahh! Bloody hell, Weasley! Can't you make some noise or something when you're approaching?"

"Wouldn't make a good Auror if I did that, now would I?" Ron laughed at him. "So did you sleep well, Malfoy?"

"Don't remember a thing," Draco replied. "How bad is Ginny's mood?"

"I don't know. I've only seen her for about five minutes or so."

"She didn't yell or anything, but maybe she's just waiting for me to come down before giving it to me," Draco mused quietly.

"You think she's not happy with you?"

"I told her I'd be right back when I went up to say goodnight to Drake. Last thing I remember is putting my feet up and Drake prattling on about the charm."

Ron exhaled loudly. "You know I could torture you indefinitely, but I'm feeling generous today. I know something you don't and it might just save your skin if she is pissed at you."

"Talk."

"I don't know if I should, I mean you did mess up by falling asleep and I know if the situation were reversed, you wouldn't exactly help me with Pansy."

"Might I remind you of a breakfast meeting I had with Mr. Parkinson?"

"Well, yeah there's that--"

"Weasley, spill it! What have you got?"

Ron rolled his eyes. The Slytherin was no fun to play with when he didn't beg. "She fell asleep on the couch about three minutes after you went upstairs."

"What? You mean she didn't even find out until this morning?"

"Didn't have a clue. Oh and you owe me too."

"For what?"

"Because you fell asleep, I had to carry her upstairs to bed."

"Fine, I owe you." Draco grinned broadly. He could handle owing Ron a favor now that he had the information that would exonerate him from Ginny's wrath. He ran his fingers through his hair, neatening it as best he could without a hairbrush or magic and left the bathroom to go downstairs for breakfast.

"Draco, did you sleep well dear?" Molly greeted him as he walked through the door.

"Yes thank you, Molly."

"Lovely! Sit down and I'll get your breakfast for you dear."

He noticed that the chair next to Ginny was vacant so he deliberately made his way around to her and sat down. She seemed to be preoccupied with eating her breakfast and paid him no attention.

"Sleep well, love?" Draco's tone was light and cheery.

"Yes. You?"

"Well, I didn't wake up during the night."

"So Drake's bed is more comfortable than mine?" Ginny snapped at him.

Yep, she's angry with me, he thought as he assessed his options carefully. "I didn't say that."

"Well why did you sleep in his bed and not mine?"

There were a whole range of excuses that came to mind, but Draco decided that honesty would be the best policy here, considering there were others that knew he had fallen asleep without coming back downstairs. "While you were falling asleep on the couch, I fell asleep on Drake's bed."

"What? Then how did I end up in bed?"

"Ron. Love, do you really think I'd tuck you in then go and join Drake?"

"No, I guess not."

"I would have tucked you in and gone home."

"Okay, I'm sorry. I thought you went to Drake's room to-- I don't really know, but--"

Draco leaned over to whisper in Ginny's ear. What he was about to say wasn't for Molly's ears and Drake was in the room. "Love, I miss you every night we're not together. If I had my way we'd be sleeping together every single night. I'm sorry I fell asleep on Drake's bed, but he was prattling on about all he'd learned and I just drifted off."

"It's all right. I was just being silly. I know you wouldn't purposely stay away from me."

"Never."

"Daddy! You're here for breakfast!" Angel squealed. Her punishment the night before forgotten as she ran around the table into Draco's arms.

"Morning, princess. Did you have a good sleep?"

"Yep! Why are you here for breakfast?"

"Because I never left."

"Really? Are you going to sleep over tonight too?"

"No, but you're coming to the manor for the weekend."

"Can we go horse riding?"

"We'll see if we can fit a quick ride in, but Mummy and I are rather busy this weekend."

"Grandfather will take me!"

"I'm sure he will if you ask him."

Molly placed Draco's breakfast in front of him. "Angel, come and sit down. I'll get your breakfast and you can let Daddy eat in peace."

"Can't I stay here?"

"No, missy, you can't. You know we don't sit on other people while we eat," Molly reminded her sternly.

Angel pouted as she climbed down from Draco's lap and made her way around to her chair. As soon as she had made herself comfortable, Molly placed her breakfast in front of her with firm instructions to eat everything.

Ginny watched Draco observing Angel's movements around the table. She knew he'd been on the verge of allowing her to remain on his knee while he ate breakfast and was pleased he hadn't pushed the issue with her mother. With her day mostly free, she thought of what the boys had to accomplish. "What time are you going for robes?"

"This afternoon, about two o'clock I think."

"Did you want me to drop Drake off at the office?"

"No, you relax. I'll pick him up."

"All right."

"You don't have much on today, do you?"

"No. What time do you think you'll be getting home?"

"Not sure, depends on how long it takes at the robe maker."

"Oh."

"Gin, you can go to the manor whenever you want. Mother loves spending time with you."

"I know. I just don't want to get there too early. I'm sure she has things to do other than entertain Angel and me."

"You know she'd drop whatever she was doing just to entertain you. If you want you could go this morning and I'll pick Drake up from the manor."

"Draco, I'm not putting your mother out all day!"

"You wouldn't be. Just think of relaxing all day at the manor with the servants to wait on you hand and foot."

"As nice as that thought is, I'm not going over until well after you've picked up Drake."

"Okay, it was only a suggestion."

"Eat your breakfast or you'll be late."

"Yes, dear." Draco smirked. Ginny was definitely her mother's daughter in more ways than she'd probably care to admit.

She rolled her eyes at him and watched him eat his breakfast. He could be so facetious at times she had to bite her tongue against a retort. No sooner had Draco finished eating than he was on his feet again.

"I have to go, love. I'll have to drop by the manor and change before I head to the office."

"All right then. So I'll see you about two o'clock."

"Yes, you will."

"Okay."

"Get some rest today."

"I will."

"Promise me."

Ginny sighed lightly. "I promise."

"Good girl." Draco grabbed his cloak off the hook inside the back door and threw it around his shoulders. Once he had fastened his heavy black cloak, he bid goodbye to Molly and the children, admonishing them to behave themselves for their mother today.

As Draco stepped close to her, Ginny unconsciously reached out and brought his cloak clasp to the center of his chest. He smiled softly at her before his lips tenderly brushed hers.

"See you this afternoon, beautiful."

"I'll be waiting," Ginny whispered as Draco walked out the back door and Disapparated with a soft pop.

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

Draco had just settled down at his desk and was starting to go through the owls that had arrived the afternoon before when Lucius strode into his office. He looked somewhat irritated and Draco wondered briefly if anything had gone wrong that required his attention yesterday afternoon.

"Draco."

"Good morning, Father."

"Your mother was concerned when you didn't come home last night."

"I fell asleep at Ginny's."

"Weasley doesn't mind if you spend the night?"

"I fell asleep on Drake's bed while he was talking about all he'd learnt," Draco told him with barely concealed impatience. He'd lost count how many times he had explained this morning. His mother had pounced on him the moment he Apparated into the manor and it took him quite sometime to calm her down so he could explain his whereabouts the night before.

"Well, just keep in mind your mother's feelings before you relax too much away from home."

"I'm a big boy now, Father."

"I know, however, your mother's opinion differs."

Draco rolled his eyes. Whenever he spent the night out of the house without first letting his mother know, she always worried and it drove Draco to distraction. She was never going to accept the fact that he was a grown man with a life of his own.

"How did Drake perform yesterday?"

"Exceedingly well. He has talent."

"There was no doubt in my mind."

"I don't think there's any question about him being able to perform the Ring Ceremony."

"Excellent. When do you plan to work with him again?"

"This evening. I promised him we'd practice before or after dinner."

"Good, I'd like to watch him."

"You're more than welcome to join us. I have to be there all the time, but I don't think there's anything to stop others from being present while I teach him."

"Where do you plan on conducting your lesson?"

"Outside. He doesn't have good control of the charm yet. He can get a leaf to hover, but he hasn't been able to set it down again and I wouldn't want to take any chances inside if he looses control completely."

"Very wise."

"Yes, I don't think mother would be overly impressed if he levitated a vase or one of her trinkets."

"You could be right there," Lucius chuckled lightly. "What time are you going to get your robes fitted?"

"I'm leaving at two to pick Drake up and we're meeting the boys at three."

"An hour to pick your son up?"

"No, an hour to spend some time with Ginny. Have a cup of tea with her and see how her day is going."

"I see."

"Is there a problem I should know about, Father?"

"No, no problem. I was just thinking I might accompany you. Your mother is insisting I have new robes for the wedding."

Draco smirked. It wasn't like his father didn't have enough dress robes. Every time they attended a function his mother insisted on new robes, so Lucius had many he'd worn only once. "You can come if you like. After we get the robes fitted we'll more than likely go for a drink."

"Check with me before you leave, I might just do that."

"I think Drake would enjoy it if you accompanied us."

"In that case, I will join you. In fact, I'll accompany you to pick Drake up and I can spend a little time with Angelique before we go."

"Mother told you about yesterday?"

"She mentioned something about a dress Angelique wanted."

"Did she mention the temper tantrum Angel threw in an effort to get the dress?"

"She told me Angelique was quite upset when Ginevra wouldn't allow her to have both dresses."

"Gin's version is a little different. Apparently, Angel all but destroyed the store while she was kicking and screaming on the floor."

"She would never do that! Angelique has no reason to carry on that way."

"She did, according to Ginny and I had to punish her for it."

"You punished her for shedding a few tears over a dress?"

"No, Father. I punished her for throwing a tantrum when things didn't go her way. She unleashed her magic and things were flying around the store."

"I don't believe you. Angelique would never."

"It's not going to make any difference how much I tell you she did, so I'll just say that you're not to take her anything or buy her anything for a week."

"Draco, I hardly think any gift from me is going to--"

"Father, I'm serious. Ginny was very upset yesterday and I got the nasty end of it. I won't have either of the children behaving like that for her and I don't want Angel to think that she's gotten away with this."

"Very well, if you insist."

"I do."

"I've a meeting in a moment, so I'll see you this afternoon."

"I'll call by your office before I leave." Draco watched his father leave his office. He knew the request to not give Angel any gifts for a week was a waste of time, but at least Lucius wouldn't give her anything in front of Ginny and that would take some pressure off of him.

The morning passed quickly and before Draco knew it his secretary was reminding him that it was time to leave. With a few last minute instructions for her, he collected his cloak and walked to his father's office. Lucius had been in meetings all morning and Draco had not seen him since their earlier discussion.

"Father, it's almost two o'clock."

"I'll just finish this up and we'll leave."

"You could meet us at the robe maker."

"No, no. This won't take me a moment."

"Fine." Draco dropped his tall frame into one of the visitor's chairs in front of his father's desk and waited while Lucius finished scribbling on a parchment in front of him. He was eager to spend a little time with Ginny and this hold up was most irritating.

After several minutes, punctuated by impatient sighs from Draco, Lucius rose from his chair. "Are we ready to go?"

"Yes," Draco responded loudly, before continuing under his breath, "It's about time."

Lucius glanced bemusedly at his son. He hadn't heard a comment like that from his son in some years. Patience was never one of Draco's strongest virtues and his youth had been punctuated by remarks similar to the one he'd just uttered, whenever he was made to wait. Lucius surmised it wasn't so much the robe fitting he was looking forward to, but the pretty redheaded witch he was meeting beforehand.

"Shall we?"

"Ready when you are, Father. You can Apparate directly into the yard at the Burrow, rather than down the road."

"Thank you. That will save me a walk."

"I'll meet you there." Draco Disapparated as Lucius threw his cloak over his shoulders. He hoped he might get a couple of minutes alone with Ginny, but he doubted it would be possible.

As Draco Apparated in the yard of the Burrow squeals of delight immediately began to assault his ears.

"Daddy! Daddy!"

"Angel, calm down. You knew I was coming."

"Can I come with you to the robe maker? Can I?"

"No, you're going to the manor with Mummy."

"But why can't I go with you?"

"Because this is a boys' shopping trip only and I said no."

The little girl pouted and folded her arms across her chest. "It's not fair!"

"It's perfectly fair. You went shopping yesterday."

"No, it's not!" She stamped her foot for emphasis as Lucius appeared behind Draco.

"What's going on here?"

Angel flung herself into Lucius' arms. "Grandfather! Daddy won't let me come shopping!"

"I don't think this is an appropriate shopping trip for a little girl."

"Drake gets to go!"

"Yes, because he's a wizard," Lucius pointed out.

Angel's eyes narrowed and she stared intently at Lucius. "You're going to!"

"I am."

Angel wriggled out of Lucius' grip and slid to the ground.

"Angelique, you're not coming with us and that's final. Now I don't want to hear another word of complaint from you," Draco growled. He didn't like the look in her eye and if her temper was as bad as Ginny had indicated then he didn't want to spend his time calming her down or disciplining her.

The little strawberry blonde's eyes widened before they narrowed on her father and she tossed her nose in the air. Draco and Lucius watched her stomp into the house and slam the door behind her, clearly not pleased with how things went.

"That is your temper," Lucius said quietly.

"Or yours," Draco countered with a smirk. "Let's go inside, I haven't seen Ginny yet and she doesn't need to be confronted with little 'Miss Nose Out of Joint'."

"Angelique will calm down. Perhaps we can compensate her for staying with her mother," Lucius suggested as they walked into the kitchen.

"Father, you do remember our discussion this morning, don't you?" Out of the corner of his eye Draco saw Ginny by the hearth, but he needed to sort his father out first before turning his attention to the woman he loved.

"Of course, I just thought she's so upset at having to remain--"

"She went shopping yesterday and put on a performance."

"Drake went shopping yesterday, too, so it's only fair that Angelique receives some compensation for missing out."

"Father, I said nothing for an entire week and I meant it."

Lucius sighed affectedly. "Very well."

"Good, we understand each other then."

Lucius ignored Draco's final statement and turned his attention to his future daughter-in-law. "Good afternoon, Ginevra."

"Lucius, Draco," Ginny greeted the men with a smile playing around her lips. It she hadn't have heard it for herself she would never have believed Draco was capable of telling his father off like that.

"Hello, love." Draco grinned warmly at her.

"Is there something going on that I should know about?"

"Angel wants to come shopping and she's not happy that we told her no."

"That would explain the slammed door."

"Yeah, she thought she'd appeal to father and when he didn't cave she got a little annoyed," Draco smirked. "Are you making some tea?"

"I can. Take a seat and I'll bring it over."

"Thanks, love. Father, are you going to chase Angel or would you like a cup of tea?"

Lucius considered going after his granddaughter for a moment and then disregarded the notion. If she were anything like them, she would need a few moments to calm herself. "Tea sounds like the safer option at this point."

"So much for spending some time with her," Draco said. He was disappointed for his father.

"No matter, we have all weekend," Lucius responded casually.

"She's probably up in her room sulking, Lucius. You can go up if you want, but I can't guarantee she'll be happy to see you." Ginny made the offer knowing full well Angel wouldn't be happy to see her grandfather after he'd just denied her something she wanted.

"Perhaps I'll allow her some time to calm herself then I'll wander up."

"If you want, you don't have to. Sometimes it's better to just leave her alone for a while. It stops her from taking her unhappiness out on everyone else."

"I'll see her before we leave at the very least."

"All right."

"Mr. Malfoy, what a surprise!" Molly exclaimed as she walked into the kitchen.

Lucius stood immediately and frowned at Draco when he made no move to stand. Had his son forgotten his manners? "Mrs. Weasley, I thought I'd accompany Draco to the robe maker this afternoon and it gave me an excellent excuse to visit Angelique."

"You don't need an excuse. You're welcome to visit the children whenever you like."

"Thank you."

"I think Angel is in her bedroom."

"She's sulking, Mum," Ginny offered.

"What happened? She was perfectly happy at lunch."

"She can't go shopping with the men."

"Oh dear. Well, she's best left alone for a little while then."

"I'll see her before we leave," Lucius informed the Weasley Matriarch.

"Good, she'd be disappointed if you left without saying goodbye. Sit down and drink your tea before it goes cold."

"Won't you join us?" Lucius offered politely.

"No, thank you. I'm in the middle of getting ready to go to Bill's for the evening. He's taking Fleur out for the night and we're babysitting for them. It's been such a long time since they've been able to get out on their own," Molly prattled on as she moved about the kitchen.

"Mum, do you know where Drake is at the moment?"

"Last I saw of him, he was in his room getting changed, dear. Did you tell him to wear dress robes?"

"No, I didn't even tell him to get changed."

"Well, it looked like he was trying to put his dress robes on."

Ginny sighed. She could imagine the mess he was making of trying to put his dress robes on himself. "Okay, I might just wander up and see how he's going."

"Stay there, I'll go," Draco offered.

"Draco dear, while you're going upstairs would you mind carrying that box up for me?" Molly asked before Draco could even move from his chair.

"Where would you like it?"

"If you just leave it on the second floor landing, that would be wonderful. I was going to leave a note for Ron to do it when he got home from work, but he'd probably be in and out so fast he wouldn't even bother to read it."

"No problem." Draco hefted the heavy box full of books onto his shoulder and made his way to the staircase.

"He's such a lovely boy," Molly sighed happily, when Draco was out of earshot.

Lucius almost choked on his tea. He'd never, in his son's almost twenty-four years, heard him called 'lovely'.

Ginny smothered a giggle when she saw the look on her future father-in-law's face. He was obviously not in agreement with her mother's opinion of Draco. "Everything all right, Lucius?"

"Fine, fine."

"Your tea is okay?"

"Yes, it's lovely."

If there was any hidden meaning behind the blond wizard's statement, it was lost on Molly, as she beamed at him after the compliment. Ginny hid her face behind her cup. The desire to laugh was becoming almost too much to bear. After a couple of deep breaths to calm her urge she lowered the cup. The expression on Lucius' face had returned to his usual stoical guise. This didn't surprised Ginny in the least. She had become accustomed to Lucius' cement like features whenever someone other than the immediate family was in his presence.

"Did Draco tell you that Colin is coming by Saturday afternoon?" Ginny felt the need to fill the silence and the photographers impending visit was all she could think of, despite knowing that Draco had probably told his parents this morning.

A frown crossed Lucius' forehead briefly. "Whom may I ask is Colin?"

"The photographer."

"I see. No, Draco didn't mention anything."

"Maybe he told Narcissa then."

"Perhaps you could mention it to her, just in case he didn't. I'm sure she would want to know exactly when to expect him."

"I'll do that when I get to the manor this afternoon."

"Do what?" Draco asked as he reentered the kitchen.

"Tell your mother about Colin visiting tomorrow," Ginny informed him.

"I knew I forgot to do something this morning."

"It's all right, I'll tell her. Where's Drake?"

"He's coming down soon. He's just finishing up getting his dress robes on."

"Is he really putting his robes on without being told to?"

"Yes, he really is. He needed a little help, but I've left him to do the rest on his own."

"Maybe I should go up."

"Leave him, Gin. I think he's quite pleased with himself for taking the initiative to get ready on his own."

"Are you sure he's all right?"

"I'm positive. When I left he was ready to put his boots on and he knows father is down here so he won't be long."

"Fine, I'll leave him. Is Angel still in her room?"

"Yeah, she peeked out of the door, but when she realized I saw her she slammed the door shut."

"Just leave her there then. If she wants to be antisocial, let her."

"I'll talk to her before we leave. You don't need to be dealing with that mood for the rest of the afternoon."

"Oh, I won't be dealing with it. As soon as we get to the manor she can stomp upstairs to her room and stay there."

"Gin, I'll talk to her and see if we can't fix this."

"You can't just leave her to have her little sulk, can you?"

"Nope. I don't like it when one of my girls is upset."

"You're impossible." Ginny shook her head in mock disgust.

"But you love me," Draco whispered.

Lucius was about to quietly remind Draco that such talk should be kept for private moments when the noise of someone running down the staircase came thundering into the kitchen.

Drake charged into the kitchen, obviously full of excitement. "Grandfather! Daddy said you were here."

"Hello, Drake. Are you ready for our shopping trip this afternoon?"

"Yeah." Drake sighed despondently and tugged at his robes. He'd rather do anything but shop for dress robes, wearing them was bad enough. "Did Daddy tell you what I did with his wand?"

"Yes, we spoke about your lesson this morning. Very impressive, young man." Drake's smile could have lit up a dark room. It seemed his grandfather's approval and praise meant more to him than anyone could have guessed. "I'll be attending your lessons at the manor over the weekend to see for myself."

"Can you help me to get it right?"

"I'm afraid only your father can give you instruction, but I'm sure I can impart a few tips on how to control your energy." Lucius knew, without being told, that his name would never appear on such an extraordinary license. His past would haunt him for the rest of his life.

"I can get the leaf up, but I can't land it yet," Drake said with a little frustration in his voice.

"It takes time to master such charms and you are six years younger than most are when they learn this particular charm. Your father told me you displayed exceptional talent in your first lesson."

"It's only first year charms! Daddy said so." The little boy looked over to his father, but he was busy whispering in Mummy's ear and she was giggling.

"True, but you are only five, first years are generally eleven. Practice is the key to success, Drake. The more you practice, the better you become. Focusing your magical energy takes time to master and you are doing well for your age, so don't be disappointed with your efforts."

"I guess."

"I'm positive you will have it mastered before the end of the weekend. After all you are a Malfoy and we are known for our control."

"Drake will have the charm mastered in his own time," Molly stated strongly. She wasn't impressed with the pressure, deliberate or not, that Lucius was placing on the little boy to have the charm mastered before the end of the weekend. He'd wear himself out practicing.

"Are you aware of the progress young Drake made yesterday?"

"Perfectly aware, thank you."

"Then it is not unreasonable to expect full control of the simple charm by the end of the weekend."

"Drake is five years old. He has never used a wand in his life and I don't feel the pressure you're placing on him is going to help him with learning the charm."

"I hardly feel that presenting my grandson with a reasonable goal is placing pressure upon him."

"Reasonable? How can you possibly think that three days is reasonable?"

"He is a Malfoy," Lucius snarled. "Incompetence is not in his blood."

Molly lifted her chin high and nailed the blond man with a dangerous look. "Drake is also a Weasley and we do not expect our own to accomplish impossible tasks."

"It is not impossible for a wizard of his bloodline to accomplish."

"Father, time is moving on. Perhaps we should think about talking to Angel now. I don't want to be late meeting Blaise and Greg," Draco said quickly. He and Ginny had been having a somewhat private conversation, but upon hearing his father's tone change dramatically, Draco immediately began listening to what he was discussing with Molly. They looked ready to kill each other and Draco decided the best thing to do was get his father out of there while he was still in one piece.

"Mum, do you think you could persuade Angel to come down and at least say goodbye?" Ginny didn't like the dangerous look on her mother's face. Molly was furious and it wouldn't take much more to have her reaching for her wand, something Ginny wanted to avoid at all costs.

Without replying, Molly turned on her heel and left the room. Ginny and Draco both sighed with relief. Now that they were in separate rooms, they were less likely to draw their wands at each other or worse. A renewed family feud was not what either of them wanted or needed at this point.

"Father--"

"That woman is incorrigible!"

"Father," Draco warned in a low voice. The way Ginny's moods had been swinging between good and bad he could see himself being raked over the coals for his father's comments.

"My apologies, Ginevra." Lucius inclined his head in Ginny's direction, but his tone was haughty and anything but apologetic.

"I'm not the one you need to apologize to," Ginny challenged.

"I am not--"

"You will," Draco hissed. "The moment she walks back in! I don't need this now, Father."

Lucius huffed indignantly. "Very well." He would do this for his son's future happiness and for no other reason. The woman wouldn't know that he wasn't being genuine and for Draco's sake he could utter the words.

"Good."

Drake had remained silent and wide-eyed during his grandparents' exchange. Lucius and Molly were the two most formidable relatives he had and to witness them disagreeing was quite an experience for the little boy. He had no doubt in his young mind that if either of them were to draw their wands it would get very messy indeed.

"Drake, are you all right?" Draco asked quietly.

"Uh huh."

"You sure?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"Of course, he's all right!" Lucius snapped.

"Why don't you have a good look at him?" Draco whispered harshly.

Lucius turned casually to look at his grandson. Shock and a little fear was probably the most apt description of what Drake's expression was projecting. While Lucius was arguing with Molly, he hadn't given any thought to how the child would perceive the vehement words flying back and forth. Now he saw that perhaps Draco was right in questioning him. Drake was most certainly not all right. Unable to find the right words to remove the little boy's expression, Lucius remained silent as his gaze abruptly returned to Draco.

"Drake, come here, sweetheart," Ginny said softly.

When Drake reached her side, Ginny gathered him in her arms and he nuzzled his head into her shoulder.

"Next time you decide to argue with someone, perhaps you can make sure the children are out of earshot," Draco whispered harshly.

"I certainly didn't mean--"

"Whether you meant to or not, you did!" He'd never been angrier with his father and had certainly never spoken to him so sharply. Draco turned his attention to his son and fiancée. "Gin, why don't you take Drake into the front room for a bit. Your mother will be back with Angel in a minute and we don't need both of them upset."

"All right. Are you going to join us?"

"In a bit."

Draco waited until Ginny had left the kitchen with Drake before turning his attention back to his father. Lucius was looking decidedly uncomfortable, not that just anyone could have seen this, but only Narcissa knew the man better than Draco.

"I will talk to Drake."

"Yes, you will and you will make this right. I don't need any more dramas at the moment, Father. I thought you, of all people, would have understood this. Damn it! Healer Wilson told us to keep Ginny calm and what do you do?"

"I said I will talk to the boy and I will apologize to Ginevra."

"Molly?"

"Yes, and Mrs. Weasley."

"What about me?" Molly asked sharply as she walked into the room.

"Mrs. Weasley, I was just telling Draco that I owe you an apology. My behavior was unacceptable and I do hope you accept my sincerest regrets." Lucius inclined his head politely. He was the picture of a perfectly bred aristocrat.

Molly seemed taken aback by this stream of words from the wizard before her. It was the last thing she had expected to hear from the ex Death Eater. "Well... Apology accepted... And I am sorry for my part in the disagreement."

"Quite all right, Mrs. Weasley. I feel we should agree to disagree at times and that will save us some grief."

"Yes." Molly frowned. She didn't know quite what the man was playing at, but as far as she was concerned his behavior was out of character and this alone worried her.

"Angelique is coming down to see us?"

"She's just washing her face."

"I might go and see how Drake's doing," Draco muttered as he strode from the room. He could tell Molly was on her guard and he didn't want to get caught in the middle of another dispute. If they wanted to kill each other then they could do it without witnesses.

Ginny was sitting on the couch with Drake on her knee. The little boy was talking quite animatedly and seemed none the worse for wear now. Draco dropped his tall frame next to Ginny and looked to her questioningly. He had expected to be confronted by tears from his son at the very least.

"I think he just needed a couple of minutes to gather himself," Ginny whispered over her son's head.

"So he's all right?"

"Yes, he's fine."

"Daddy, are we going soon?"

"Yeah, mate. I want a word with Angel before we leave and we're still waiting for her to come downstairs."

"I'll go get her," Drake offered.

"Okay, tell her I'm waiting to see her and Grandfather wants to see her too."

"Okay," Drake replied happily as he raced up the staircase.

"Is he really all right?" Draco asked apprehensively.

"Yes, he's fine. The twins are used to Mum's temper. I guess with your father and my mother in the same room going at each other was a little daunting for him, but once we got out here, he was fine."

"He just went from being scared to being fine, just like that?"

"Not just like that. I had to promise him that they'd never draw their wands on each other and that they were disagreeing because they had different ideas about what was good for him, but it didn't matter anyway because you and I are the only ones who make decisions about what's good for him."

"That's it?"

"Yeah, pretty much. He's fairly easy to please."

"Good. I don't think I've got the energy to deal with another crisis."

"Ah, there you are," Lucius remarked casually as he entered the front room. Draco wasn't entirely surprised to see his father invite himself into the room. He would have been uncomfortable in the kitchen with just Molly to talk to and it didn't sit well with the Malfoy patriarch to be in any situation where he felt awkward. "Where are the children?"

"Drake's just gone to see what's keeping Angel," Draco supplied.

"I see." Lucius drew a deep breath. "Ginevra, I am sincerely sorry for any alarm I may have caused you."

"Drake's all right now and that's all I'm concerned about."

Lucius studied the witch before him. She neither accepted nor rejected his apology and this didn't sit well with him at all. He had envisioned her accepting quietly and leaving the matter to rest, but this put him in a situation where he didn't quite know what to expect next. "That's good news. I certainly never intended to frighten the child and I have made my apologies to your mother."

"As you should have."

As Lucius' nostrils flared in indignation, Draco stood, ready to intervene if necessary.

"I wasn't the only party at fault," Lucius ground out.

"I didn't say that. You're the alleged gentleman, so you should be the first to swallow your pride and apologize."

"As I did."

"Father, I think we can close the matter here." Draco had moved in front of Lucius, blocking his view of Ginny. If Ginny kept pushing him the way she was, Lucius was likely to explode and Draco would be left with no other choice than to protect her, putting his father off side. "Ginny accepts your apology so we can let the issue slide."

"She didn't accept," Lucius hissed.

Draco's eyes closed momentarily in an effort to control his next response. "I accept on her behalf. Now let it go."

"Very well, I simply wanted to point out that I wasn't the only one at fault."

He could hear the children in the stairwell and didn't want Drake to bear witness to another dispute. "Fine, you weren't the only one at fault. The children are coming so just drop it, please!"

Lucius took a step back and turned towards the staircase. It would be safer if he didn't respond again. Draco's ire was rising and he didn't feel that a family dispute should be played out in the home of his future in-laws. However, that wouldn't stop him from making his feelings quite clear at a later time, when there were fewer ears around.

The twins descended the stairs slowly. Angel wasn't positive she wouldn't get in trouble for her early display. Only Grandma had said anything to her about her behavior, so she quite expected Mummy and Daddy to say something as well. Drake heard his father speaking to his grandfather. He knew it would be about what had happened earlier and he was in no hurry whatsoever to see what was going to happen next.

"Here they are! We thought you were never going to join us, Angelique," Lucius expressed in a light cheerful tone, as if nothing had happened.

"I was in my room," the little girl responded carefully. She forgot that Grandfather might see fit to tell her off as well.

"I merely wanted to see you before we left. That is why I came with your father-- to see you."

"Oh!" Angel's smile lit up the room. She wasn't going to get in trouble and perhaps she might be able to convince Grandfather to take her with them.

"Why don't we sit down over here?" Lucius waved his had at one of the single overstuffed chairs in the room.

"Just before you get comfortable, Father, I want a word with Angel," Draco interrupted.

"Certainly," Lucius smiled as he sat on the chair and waited for his granddaughter.

"Come over here, Angel."

Angel wandered as slowly as she dared towards her father. He didn't look very happy with her and she was certain he was about to tell her off. "Yes, Daddy?"

Draco knelt down so he was eye level with his little girl. "I want you to behave yourself this afternoon. No more temper tantrums. Is that clear?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"Good girl. Just remember, if you don't behave I will hear about it and I will punish you accordingly."

"Yes, Daddy."

"Right, you can go and join your grandfather for a few minutes. We have to leave soon."

Angel beamed at her father and began to skip across the room. When she noticed that Drake had taken up residence in Grandfather's lap she stopped dead and glared ferociously at him.

"Now, Angel, there's no need to look like that. Drake and I were just having a quick discussion. Something I wanted to settle before we set off for the afternoon." Lucius had felt it necessary to check on Drake himself and make sure everything was all right with the little boy. It would have devastated him to have his only grandson afraid of him and if necessary he was prepared to do whatever it took to eradicate that fear. As it stood, Drake was a great deal tougher than Lucius thought his mother gave him credit for and he was no longer afraid, if he ever truly was in the first place.

"You can sit here now. I'm spending all afternoon with Grandfather," Drake informed her with a sneer.

Angel's eyes opened wide and she viciously poked her tongue out at her twin. She knew he was going shopping with them and didn't appreciate being reminded.

"Angel," Draco warned.

Without looking around at her father, Angel scrambled onto Lucius' lap and snuggled into his arms. She was safe from any further reprimands as far as she was concerned.

"Why can't I come with you, Grandfather," Angel whispered.

"This is a wizards' only trip, I'm afraid. We all have to get measured for new robes and it's really no place for a little princess."

"But I'll be good."

"I'm sure you would be, but what about Grandmother? She's expecting you this afternoon. I think she may have a tea party planned."

"Really?"

"Yes, a witches' only tea party." Lucius was quite pleased with himself for averting another tantrum. Now all he had to do was get a message to Narcissa, so the tea party would be arranged before Angel arrived at the manor.

"I guess I should go to the manor then."

"Grandmother would be terribly disappointed if you didn't attend her tea party."

"Okay, I'll go to the tea party."

"Good girl. Now if you behave yourself all afternoon, I'll bring you something special."

A quiet squeal and Angel threw her arms around his neck. She could always count on Grandfather.

"Father, I think we should make a move. I don't want to keep the boys waiting."

"Very well. Angel, you remember to be a good girl," Lucius winked at her. He would have to be cautious when purchasing something for her. Draco would not appreciate him going against his orders.

"I have to go and get ready for Grandmother's tea party," Angel gasped. She placed a quick kiss on Lucius' cheek before running upstairs.

On the way to the yard, Lucius once again apologized to Molly and she reissued the invitation to visit the children whenever he felt the urge. Once Draco had disappeared into the yard, Lucius sought the Weasley Matriarch's permission to use the Floo. He quickly explained his promise to Angelique that Narcissa was preparing a tea party for her and he didn't want the little girl to be disappointed, giving her reason to misbehave for her mother. Molly consented immediately and even kept watch to ensure the rest of the family would not walk in and catch him setting the afternoon up for the women. The atmosphere between the two was still very tense, but they were at least talking in a civilized manner.

Draco kept walking out to the yard, confident that neither parent would feel the need to draw their wand. "Are you going to the manor soon?"

"Soon enough," Ginny responded vaguely.

Draco turned to face her, placing his hands on her shoulders and demanding her full attention. "Gin, I want you to go there and put your feet up for the rest of the afternoon. You need the rest."

"I have a few things I need to get done then we'll go."

"Whatever it is, it can wait."

"Are you leaving now?" Ginny grinned cheekily at him.

Draco's eyebrow quirked at her in amusement. "Trying to get rid of me?"

"And they told me you weren't very bright." Mock surprise tinged her voice as she suppressed a fit of giggles.

"All right, but when I get home I want to see you resting, not running around doing anything else for anyone else. Clear?"

"Crystal."

"Good. I'll see you later then."

"Mmm..." Their lips met in a lingering kiss and Ginny could feel the warmth of Draco's mouth spreading right down to her toes.

A sharp tug on his arm caused Draco to break the union. "Daddy, are we going now?"

"Yeah, mate. Let's get going." Draco relinquished his hold on Ginny so he could pick his son up. "We're going to Apparate, Gin. It's easier than trying to meet up with Father somewhere."

"Just be careful."

"I always am. I haven't lost him yet and I don't intend to."

"I hold on really tight, Mummy," Drake supplied with a big nod of his head. He'd much rather Apparate with his father than use the Floo network, it was cleaner and he didn't get nearly as dizzy.

"You just remember to keep holding on really tight."

"Just like this!" Drake's small arms tightened around Draco's neck to the point that Draco was struggling to breathe.

"I think you can lighten up there just a little bit, Drake." Ginny laughed at Draco's facial expression as the air to his body was cut off.

"I don't want to get splinched," the little boy replied indignantly.

"It's all right mate, between you holding me and me holding you there's no way either of us going to get splinched," Draco reassured him. "Are we ready?"

"Yep!"

Draco looked to Lucius as he appeared from the house. He wondered briefly what had taken his father so long, but decided not to question him right at this moment. "Father, we'll go to the Leaky Cauldron end of Diagon Alley."

"As you wish."

"Gin," Draco whispered as he leaned over and placed a last kiss on her mouth. He ignored the disgusted sound Drake made and kissed her again. "I'll see you later."

"Have fun!"

"We will." Draco winked at her as he raised his wand.

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

The men landed safely in Diagon Alley, not far from the Leaky Cauldron. Lucius made his way to his son's side. "Draco, I'm a little disappointed in your display of manners at the Weasleys."

Draco put Drake on his feet and held his hand tightly. "What do you mean, Father?"

"Mrs. Weasley entered the room and you failed to show your respect. Even though she isn't a lady, she is still a woman." He was still not happy with the way Draco had spoken to him and was almost desperate to show his disapproval somehow. This would do for a reprimand at the moment until he could get him alone and vent his displeasure of how Draco spoke to him.

"Father, if I stood every time Mrs. Weasley entered a room I'd spend entire visits on my feet. The woman never sits down." Molly Weasley was always rushing around doing something. Unlike Narcissa who entered a room, took her seat and issued orders from there, Molly instructed everyone as she was rushing off to do something herself. Their lifestyle differences were never more apparent than when you compared the two matriarchs. "Besides she told me not to be so formal and if she says it once you comply or suffer her wrath."

"Wrath?"

"Apparently, it's not pretty."

"You've not had the pleasure then?"

"I'm not foolish enough to antagonize the woman until she loses her temper, Father." Unlike you, he added mentally. "She rather reminds me of Mother in that way. Everything is fine and then she explodes on you."

"I see."

"We're meeting Blaise and Greg at Madam Malkin's."

"Shall we make our way there then?" Lucius didn't wait for an answer before turning on his heal and leading off towards the robe makers.

As they approached the store Draco could see his groomsmen waiting outside for him. He was silently thankful that they weren't late.

"Blaise, Greg. Good to see you both," Draco exclaimed as they drew closer.

"Draco, how are you?"

"I can't believe Draco Malfoy is actually tying the knot," Blaise chuckled. "I thought you were a self-professed bachelor for life."

"I was until I saw Ginny again."

"Good afternoon, gentleman," Lucius intoned genially.

Blaise offered his hand to the senior Malfoy. "Mr. Malfoy, pleasure to see you again."

"Mr. Malfoy." Greg shook Lucius' hand briefly.

"Draco, who's your twin?" Blaise had spied Drake standing a little behind his father.

"This is my son Drake. Drake, this is Mr. Zabini and Mr. Goyle."

"Hello," Drake said softly.

"Hello there, Drake." Blaise bent over and offered his hand to the little boy. "How old are you?"

"Five."

"Really? Well, seems your dad forgot to tell his friends something."

"I'll say," Greg stepped forward and shook Drake's small hand as well. "I met your sister the other week."

"You have a sister?" Blaise asked in astonishment.

"Angel."

"And how old is Angel?"

Drake frowned, didn't these men know anything. "Five."

"Twins! That's quite a handful. Anymore brothers or sisters lurking about the manor we should know about?" Blaise winked playfully at Drake.

"Mummy's having another baby, but we don't know what it is yet," Drake replied in a disgusted tone.

"Another? Well seems your daddy has certainly forgotten to tell us a few things."

"Leave him be, Blaise." Draco chuckled at the offended look on his old friends face. "I have twins and another on the way."

"And who is the lucky lady?"

"Do you remember Ginevra Weasley?"

"Fiery redhead if my memory serves me correctly."

"Yeah, that's Gin."

"Mate, she's a Weasley, you know they've got a reputation for breeding. You've got to be careful with that thing or you'll have your own Quidditch team before long."

"In all honestly, I wouldn't mind at all... If she was happy."

Blaise took a step towards Draco and put his hand on his chest. "All right, who are you and what have you done with the real Draco Malfoy?"

The men laughed heartily and drew the attention of passersby. Lucius cleared his throat audibly and the younger wizards sobered quickly.

"I swear, mate, your priorities change when you discover you've got kids and a beautiful woman."

"Well, I've got the beautiful woman and I'm about to find out what the kids bit is all about. Katarina is pregnant."

"Congratulations!" Draco slapped Blaise on the shoulder. "When did you find out?"

"Just the other day. She's due late November or early December."

"Isn't that close to when Ginevra is due, Draco," Lucius enquired. He knew it was December that his next grandchild was due to enter the world, but the exact date escaped him at the moment.

"Yeah, Ginny's due December eleventh."

Greg began to snigger. "You two do realize that your kids will be a school together. I already feel sorry for Professor Snape."

"Very funny, Greg. We weren't that bad at school," Blaise defended both of their reputations indignantly as the men entered the store.

"You two have short memories."

"Not short, just selective." Draco smirked at his old friend.

"Mr. Malfoy! What a pleasure it is to see you again!" Madam Malkin approached the group of men as soon as the door closed behind them.

"Madam Malkin." Lucius inclined his head politely.

Draco dug into his breast pocket and produced a small cardboard folder. "Madam Malkin, here's the fabric sample from the bridesmaids dresses."

"Thank you. I was hoping you wouldn't forget this. It's very important to match the groomsmen for the right look." The plump woman opened the small folder. "Oh this is a lovely color, but I hardly think it's appropriate for men."

Draco frowned. Intent on watching Lucius with Angel, he hadn't actually looked at the color of the sample when Ginny gave it to him. "What color is it?"

Madam Malkin showed the men the pretty sugarplum satin.

"If you think I'm wearing that color--" Greg started.

"Don't worry, you won't be," Draco assured him. "What can we do to balance the colors, Madam Malkin?"

"Just let me get my sample book and we'll see what it goes best with."

"I didn't think she'd pick such a girlie color," Draco muttered.

Lucius sighed affectedly. "Your mother was with her when she made the choice."

"Yeah, should have thought of that."

"We don't have to have that color. I mean, it doesn't really matter, does it?" Blaise asked hesitantly.

"Not to me, but the women might have a different view," Draco responded.

"You could just make a decision and put your foot down," Greg encouraged.

"Yeah, but I promised she'd have everything perfect."

Greg rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. "What is it with you guys and stupid promises?"

Blaise and Draco smirked at each other. They both knew the love of a good woman had to do with their foolish promises. The Zabini wedding had called for soft baby pink highlights on the groomsmen's robes.

"I don't doubt you'll be making your own foolish promises one day, Mr. Goyle," Lucius interjected softly.

"Nope, sorry boys. I'm not going to be promising pink robes and white bunnies to any witch!"

"Here we are, gentlemen." Madam Malkin placed her large sample book on the counter and began to flick through the pages, occasionally pausing to hold the sample fabric up to another swatch. After several minutes Madam Malkin looked up triumphantly. "I think we have a lovely match here in the gray. It will compliment the bridesmaids perfectly."

"Good. Are we all happy with gray?" Draco looked around and received nods from both his friends. "We'll go with the gray for them. Drake and I, apparently, have to have black."

"Why do you get black?" Greg asked.

"My mother insisted." Draco rolled his eyes and Greg nodded in understanding. If your mum said you had to have a certain color then it truly wasn't worth the grief of not going with her suggestion.

Once the fabric selection was completed, Madam Malkin took each of the wizards' measurements. The bridal party would wear the same design in robes, albeit in different colors. The three Malfoys would also have the Malfoy family crest embroidered onto their left breast and Draco's cloak would bear a larger version of the crest on his back. Silver accents were decided upon, rather than sugarplum; all the men had an aversion to the rich pink color.

For the most part Drake behaved himself throughout the selection and measuring. He did try in vain to convince Madam Malkin that she already had his measurements and scowled at her when she insisted he had grown, so they would need to be done again. Lucius kept close watch on his grandson the entire time; even when he was getting measured himself, he insisted that Drake remain in the room. He vividly remembered his last visit to the robe maker with his grandson and did not want a repeat performance.

When Draco was called in to get his measurements taken, Lucius waited just long enough for him to disrobe to his boxers and summoned Madam Malkin urgently. She was most put out, but came as he requested. Lucius had spied a pretty cloak on the formal rack that would go perfectly with the new dress Narcissa had purchased yesterday for Angelique. He knew she'd be thrilled to receive it, but he had to exercise caution when it came to Draco knowing what he intended to purchase, especially as he didn't know Narcissa had bought the dress.

Once Madam Malkin had taken the cloak and promised to have it delivered to the manor, Lucius turned to the others in the waiting room. "I trust you will all keep this in the strictest confidence."

Drake's brow furrowed in confusion. "What does that mean?"

"It means you can't tell anyone," Lucius explained.

"But why can't I tell?"

"If you tell I'll spend much of the weekend defending my purchase to your mother and won't have the time for a potions lesson or flying."

Drake's eyes lit up brightly. "I won't tell, Grandfather."

"Good." Lucius smirked. Drake was a true Malfoy and with the promise of interesting things for him to do over the weekend, Lucius was confident the little boy wouldn't reveal his purchase. The idea of spending the entire weekend under the glare of his future daughter in-law wasn't appealing in the least.

When Draco's measurements had been completed, the men moved to the Leaky Cauldron for a drink before heading to their respective homes. Drake sat up at the table with his pumpkin juice just like one of the men and laughing when they did, not that he understood what was being said most of the time, but he felt included in the customary drinks. When Draco bought a round of Firewhisky shooters, he had a pumpkin juice poured into one of the small glasses for Drake. The beaming smile he received for the thought warmed Draco's heart. Drake had behaved himself all day and deserved to be rewarded richly, including him in a ritual round of shooters was the least he could do to let him know how much he appreciated his conduct.

Before the wizards left to make their way home, Draco made certain to remind them about the dinner party the following night. He was looking forward to getting together with his old friends over some good food and wine. Even more so, having Ginny accept his friends for who they were and them showing their acquiescence of her. He knew if this could happen then his life would be as close to perfect as he could imagine.

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

Draco Apparated into the foyer of the manor with Drake firmly attached to his neck. A servant appeared in front of him ready to take his cloak and do his bidding.

"Where is my fiancée?"

"Miss Ginevra is in the summer parlor with Mistress," the creature squeaked.

"How about we go find Mummy?" Draco asked his son as he placed him on the floor and removed both their cloaks, dropping them onto the waiting servant.

"Can I get changed into my normal clothes?"

"After you say hello to Mummy and Grandmother."

Drake sighed heavily as he followed his father down the corridor. "Okay."

"I wonder where Father is? He should have arrived seconds after us," Draco mused mostly to himself.

As the wizards arrived in the doorway of Narcissa's summer parlor a delighted squeal assaulted their ears.

"Daddy, we're having a tea party!" Angel jumped from her chair and ran to Draco's waiting arms.

"That sounds like fun!"

"It is, but it's only for princesses." Angel's strawberry blonde locks bounced on her shoulders as she nodded her head.

"I don't think I'm a princess, but do you think I could get a cup of tea?"

"Umm... It's special tea for princesses." The little girl was clearly distressed at the thought of her father drinking the 'special' tea.

Drake burst out laughing at his twin's anguish and earned himself a sharp shove to the shoulder from a now angry Angel.

"It is special tea and you can't have any either!" Her little foot stamped hard on the polished wood floor.

With a toss of his nose, Drake regarded Angel with disdain. "I don't want any of your silly special tea, because I had shooters with Daddy."

"Draco!" Both Ginny and Narcissa rose immediately and were regarding Draco with curious glints in their eyes.

"Pumpkin juice! He had pumpkin juice in a shooter glass." Draco defended himself quickly.

Ginny stopped her progress towards him. "Pumpkin juice?"

"Yes, pumpkin juice in a tiny glass. He thought it was brilliant."

"Why?" Ginny shook her head, trying to understand where such an idea would have come from.

"I thought he might like to be included with the men and we had a couple of shooters, so I ordered his pumpkin juice the same way."

She gave up on trying to understand Draco's reasoning on the shooter of pumpkin juice. "And what did you have?"

"Firewhisky."

"Don't forget the meads, Daddy," Drake added with a big grin.

"Yeah, thanks mate. I nearly forgot about those."

Ginny took a deep breath to keep herself calm. She didn't want to jump to conclusions, but her mind was already imagining the worst. "Draco, how did you get home?"

"Apparated, love."

"You Apparated with Drake after you'd been drinking?"

"Gin, it was only two meads and two shooters. I'm not exactly drunk."

"You're not exactly stone cold sober either." Ginny's eyes flashed dangerously.

"Gin, if I thought it wasn't safe to Apparate with Drake, I wouldn't have. As it is, I feel perfectly fine. Besides we made it home safely."

"That's not the point!"

"What the bloody hell is the point then?" he screamed at her.

"Draco!" Narcissa exclaimed in shock as her hand came to her breast. "How dare you speak so vulgarly to Ginevra!"

"Mother, this is between Ginny and I. It has nothing to do with you and I'd appreciate it if you'd keep your opinion to yourself," Draco ground out angrily.

"Well I--"

"Perhaps you could take the children for a walk," Draco said pointedly.

The twins were staring wide-eyed at their parents. Both looked a little pale and more than a little unhappy as they stood together holding hands.

"I-- Very well. Children, come along." Narcissa shooed the twins out of the parlor and as she passed her enraged son, she couldn't help but comment, "You will remember Ginevra is carrying your child. She is supposed to be kept calm."

"Mother," Draco warned sternly. He was tired of his mother's interference and was determined to settle this particular dispute on his own. Ginny had all but accused him of being too drunk to Apparate safely with their son and that upset him greatly. He'd never do anything to endanger Drake or Angel. How she didn't see this was beyond him, but he was going to make her understand.

When Narcissa and the children could be heard making their way down the corridor Draco turned to Ginny. She looked furious enough to hex him and he made a mental note to keep a close eye on her wand hand. If it so much as twitched, he'd be ready.

"I would never Apparate with either of the children if I thought I'd had too much to drink," Draco said evenly.

"Well, there's the problem. Once you've had too much to drink you don't think."

"How do you know what I'm like when I drink? I've never been bloody well drunk in your presence!"

"You're a man. You're all alike."

"What's that supposed to mean?"

"Just add alcohol and you all take leave of your senses."

"I do not take leave of my senses after two meads and two Firewhiskies!"

"Well, you Apparated with my son!"

"I Apparated with our son."

"You shouldn't have! Anything could have happened!"

Draco rolled his eyes at her. "Nothing happened and nothing was ever going to happen!"

"You don't know that! Maybe-- Maybe you were just lucky this time!"

"I don't operate on luck, Ginny, and you know it. I wouldn't have Apparated with our son unless I was positive we would make it safely." His anger was starting to peel away. Her voice had cracked slightly and he realized she was just concerned for their safety. Yes, she was over reacting, but that was what mothers did. He consciously softened his features and took a step closer to her. His hands reached out to gather her against him, but she pushed him away.

"Don't-- Just don't." Her voice was little more than a strangled whisper and she ran from the room before he could respond.

Draco let out a breath he hadn't realized he was holding and ran his hands through his hair. So much for coming home to spend a quite evening with the woman he loved. Rather than follow her straight away, Draco decided he would give her some time to calm down that way there would be less chance of him getting hexed. He would check on the children and make sure they were all right before approaching Ginny again.

"Draco?"

"Father, I didn't hear you come in."

"Is everything all right?"

"Yeah, yeah everything is fine."

"Really? Does Ginevra often run up the stairs weeping when everything is fine?"

"She's crying?"

"Yes."

"Bloody hell!" Draco went to stride around Lucius. He would have to go straight up to Ginny and try to calm her down.

"If I may make a suggestion-- Give her some time to vent a little. She'll be easier to handle if she's not quite so emotive."

"I don't want to handle her. I want to understand her."

"A poor choice of words on my part," Lucius conceded. "What I meant was she would be easier to talk to if she wasn't weeping."

"She's not meant to get upset like that-- the baby."

"You can hardly stop a pregnant woman from crying every time a leaf drops from a tree. It will do her some good to purge her soul and perhaps then you'll be able to work out your differences rationally."

"Wouldn't it be better if I went up now? Won't she think I don't care if I leave her alone?"

Lucius chuckled. "Do you have any valuable breakables in your chambers?"

"Of course," Draco replied with a deep frown.

"And you're good at dodging projectiles?"

"She wouldn't--"

"I used to think the same of your mother, until she threw an heirloom vase at my head. We'd been married about three months and I had displeased her in some way. Quite minor in my opinion, but apparently not in hers and when I failed to see the importance of what I had allegedly done she hurled the vase at me. It missed me by only an inch or so."

"Okay, I'll give her some time. Have you seen the children?"

"Yes, your mother is with them in the dining room. They're fine."

"Why are they in the dining room? It's not dinner time."

"Your mother didn't want them to get their sticky hands all over the furniture in the winter parlor."

"Why would they have sticky hands?"

"I picked up some candy for them and we thought it was an appropriate distraction at the time."

Draco rubbed his eyes and sighed tiredly. The last thing he needed was the twins hyped up on sugar tonight. While it was probably a perfect distraction, it was going to make things difficult for him later when dinner and bath time rolled around. "I'd better go and check on them."

Lucius followed Draco to the dining room. Drake and Angel were seated at the end of the table with a large array of sweets scattered in front of them. Draco almost groaned audibly when he saw Angel sucking on a Sugar Quill. If ever there was a source of pure sugar that was it. Drake had obviously just eaten a Fizzing Whizzbee, given the distance his bottom was from his chair. The sooner he put a stop to this feast the better, but he had to be careful how he approached the task. Two upset children and an upset witch wasn't on the original agenda for tonight.

"Hey, you two aren't going to eat any dinner if you keep going at that rate."

"Daddy! Where's Mummy?" Angel looked past her father, but only Lucius was standing behind him.

"She's a bit tired so she went to have a lay down."

"Is she still cross with you?" Drake asked quietly. He had a gnawing feeling that the argument between his parents was his fault.

"A little, but we'll work it out. She was just worried that we might have been splinched or something silly."

"Oh. I shouldn't have said anything about the mead."

"It's all right, mate, you didn't do anything wrong. She'd have found out anyway," Draco assured him. "She would have smelt it on my breath as soon as she got close enough."

Angel wrinkled her nose at Draco. "Mead smells icky!"

"Yeah it does, princess. How about we pack up your sweets so you have some left for tomorrow?"

"But we want to eat more!" Angel protested.

"No, Angel. We'll pack up now, Daddy," Drake agreed quietly.

"But--"

"Angel," Drake hissed at his sister. "Pack up."

The little girl pouted, but she began to shove sweets back into the large bag her grandfather had presented her with earlier. She could have sat there all night nibbling on the delicious candy.

Draco decided to bath the children himself before dinner. Narcissa hovered over him, constantly offering the help of a servant, but he declined every time. He needed to keep himself occupied otherwise he'd be running to his chambers to find out what Ginny was doing.

Dinner came and went with no Ginny. Narcissa sent a tray up to her, but it came back untouched. Draco was trying to keep up appearances for the children, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. All he wanted to do was go and check on her, but Lucius kept insisting that he leave her be to calm herself down.

After dinner, Drake worked on the levitation charm for a short while. Lucius was most impressed with the progress the little boy had made in just over twenty-four hours and praised him highly. Although distracted, Draco couldn't help but burst with pride when Drake managed to control the charm enough to land the feather they were working with gently on the floor of the dungeon. When Drake began to yawn widely as he was trying to articulate the charm, Draco announced it was time for bed. Despite putting up a token protest, Drake didn't struggle when he was led out of the dungeon and upstairs to his chambers.

Narcissa and Angel were in the little girl's chambers. They were reading a story together when Draco arrived to say goodnight. Narcissa left after promising to finish the story the following evening and went to say goodnight to Drake.

"Daddy, is Mummy going to say goodnight?"

"She's still resting, princess," Draco replied as he pulled the covers over his daughter.

"She's very angry with you, isn't she?"

"Yeah she is, but we'll fix things."

"Grandmother is angry with you too."

"Nothing surprising there," Draco muttered. "I'll talk to Grandmother later and fix things with her. Now you go straight to sleep and I'll see you in the morning."

"Daddy, I'm not angry with you."

"Thank you, sweetheart." Draco held her close.

"I love you, Daddy," Angel whispered and placed a kiss on his cheek.

"I love you too, Angel." Draco's voice came out in a harsh whisper. A lump had formed in his throat making it difficult to breathe, let alone talk. With some difficulty he forced himself to release his daughter and walk from the room.

When he reached the corridor, Draco took a deep breath and just stood still for a little while. He needed time to gather himself before approaching either witch he had earned displeasure from. Once calm, he decided his mother could wait and he proceeded to his chambers to confront Ginny. It was more important, to him that he sort through his problems with Ginny as soon as possible. He couldn't stand being at odds with her.

All was quite in his bedchamber when he entered. There was no light source and the thought that Ginny wasn't in there any longer crossed his mind briefly.

"Lumos." Draco held his wand out in front of him and by the soft light he noticed Ginny was on the bed sound asleep.

As he crept closer, he could hear her even breathing interrupted by the occasional hitch and when the light from his wand played over her face he realized she had cried herself to sleep. Her cheeks were still moist with tears and the pillow below her head was wet. Draco's heart lurched. He had caused those tears and it was tearing him apart that he didn't chase her up the stairs in the first place. He should have been here to hold her at the very least. Perhaps they could have worked things out before she upset herself so much.

With a sigh of resignation he prepared for bed. There was no point in waking her to talk and he didn't feel like going downstairs to face his mother. He'd just lie with her, hold her and pretend everything was all right until morning.

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

Draco had lain awake most of the night. His thoughts were continually in turmoil over the witch sleeping next to him. They seemed to be at odds with one another just about constantly and it always seemed to be his fault or at least it seemed that way to him at three in the morning. The thought that they may not work together did cross his mind several times, but it caused too much pain to think about not being with Ginny that he dismissed the errant notion each time. He'd make certain it didn't come to that if it was the last thing he did. He finally fell into a restless slumber, waking every time she moved.

When the sun broke through the draperies Draco awoke immediately. He could feel Ginny curled up beside him. She was trembling. Careful not to disturb her, Draco looked down and saw that the blankets were covering her. He didn't know what to make of her shaking until he heard her draw a ragged breath. She wasn't cold, she was weeping again. With gentle precision, Draco rolled over and wrapped his arms around her. He murmured comforting sounds into her hair until her body began to still.

"Love, why are you crying?"

"I just--I don't know," Ginny sniffed softly.

"There must be a reason. You don't cry for nothing." Draco tried to turn her around to face him, but she resisted. "Are you still upset from last night?"

"Yes--no--I don't know," she stammered amid a fresh assault of tears.

Once again, Draco made soothing sounds and held her tightly. She couldn't talk reasonably when she was distraught and he wouldn't force her, but he wanted to get to the bottom of this latest upset this morning. With a little gentle coaxing, he managed to get her to face him. Although her face remained buried in his chest, it was progress. Her tears ran down his bare chest, burning a trail of guilt into his very soul.

When her sobbing began to ebb he tried to talk to her again. "Gin, you've got to tell me what's wrong. I can't fix it, unless you talk to me."

"I don't know," she whispered.

Even though he knew it was dangerous and he may not like the answer, Draco pressed forward in his search for the cause of her misery. "Are you still upset with me for Apparating with Drake yesterday?"

"A little, but that's not all."

"Then tell me what else is bothering you," he pleaded.

"Nothing and everything. I don't feel like I'm in control anymore. Everything is happening so fast I can't even keep up with what decisions have been made."

"What decisions?"

"The twins, the wedding-- Everything!" She buried her head in his chest again. "Sometimes I wish I could just stay in bed with you forever and ignore the world." Her voice was muffled, but Draco heard her words clearly.

Draco took a deep breath and rubbed her back gently. He'd have to proceed cautiously if he wanted to avoid her blowing up in his face. "All right, let's look at things one at a time. Maybe they won't look so daunting if we break them down."

"Okay," she barely whispered.

"First the twins. I know they've been giving you a hard time, especially Angel this week, but I think we've sorted them out."

She lifted her head, but kept her eyes on his chest. "I'm used to making all the decisions for them and I don't feel like I'm doing that anymore."

"No, you're not, because I'm here to help you with them. Gin, they're a handful for the two of us. How you coped alone for five years still boggles my mind. I'm only trying to help, love, not upset you and certainly not take over. I thought you wanted to raise them together."

"I do, I just didn't think it'd make me feel this way."

"How about every time you feel like you've been left out of a decision with the twins you let me know and we can talk about it. That way it's not going to build up inside and you're not going to get so upset."

"I can do that."

"Good and I'll try to talk to you before I make major decisions for either of them." Draco smiled gently. He seemed to be making progress and that was confidence boosting. "Gin, I just want to be a good father. I want to be active in their lives-- for the good and the bad."

"You are a good dad."

Draco chuckled. "You do realize I haven't the faintest idea what I'm doing most of the time."

"Umm-- Yeah, but you try hard."

"Is it that noticeable?"

"Not to the kids."

"I'm assuming that's a good thing."

"Absolutely! If they had any idea that you were just fumbling around in the dark, they'd eat you alive."

"Comforting thought."

"I'm sure they'd make it as painless as possible for you, after all they do love you."

"Before I start getting mental images of my death at the hands of my own flesh and blood, why don't you choose the next topic?"

Ginny sobered immediately and her gaze fell to his chest again. "I miss you whenever you're not with me, but lately when we're together, we argue all the time."

"I don't know what to tell you, love. I hate that too, but I'm at a loss. I just don't know how to fix it. I think we're just experiencing some teething problems and we'll sort them out in time. Meanwhile, we need to talk more, instead of getting irate with each other."

"Do you really think the problems will go away in time?"

"Yeah, I do. Do you know why?"

"No."

"Number one, because we love each other and we want this to work. Number two, we're still getting used to being with each other, so there's bound to be times where we find we do things a little differently. What we have to do is talk first."

"Okay, we can do that."

"Now, the wedding."

"I just feel so out of control. It's happening so fast."

"Love we're getting married in four weeks. We need to move fast."

"I know-- It's just--" She sighed heavily and a lone tear ran down her face. "I don't know."

His stomach clenched uncomfortably and he swallowed hard. "You do want to get married, don't you?"

Ginny's heart lurched painfully. He sounded so wounded. She lifted her gaze and stared into his silver orbs. Fear was all she saw reflected in his eyes and if frightened her. "Yes, I want to get married."

She felt him relax and saw the fear in his eyes dissipate.

"I don't know what I would have done if you said no."

"I love you, Draco, and I want to marry you-- I just wish it wasn't so rushed."

"I thought we decided it would be better to marry before the baby's born."

"We did. I guess I didn't expect everything to happen so fast or for it to be so tiring. I just feel so out of control."

"If it's too much for you to handle at the moment we can put it off until after the baby's born."

"No, I still want to get married before."

"Well, we are almost finished with the planning so things should start to settle down for you."

"I know-- I know. I guess once everything is done I'll feel better."

"You need to rest more and don't worry about the wedding."

"Draco, I have to worry about the wedding."

"No you don't. Love, we're surrounded by people only too willing to help."

"But it's our wedding."

"That doesn't mean you have to do everything. You need to look after yourself."

"I just want everything to be the way we want it, not how our mothers want it."

"Would it be so horrible if some things were the way our families want. They love us, Gin, they're not going to plan an awful wedding for us."

"It's just our mothers have such different ideas."

"They could work together and come to a compromise."

"Draco, they'd kill each other."

"At least we wouldn't have to worry about them behaving at the reception."

Ginny laughed lightly. The thought of Molly and Narcissa tearing each other apart, politely of course, at the reception was sadly humorous at the moment.

"I'm making an executive decision."

"Oh?"

"As the wizard and supreme ruler of our house, I've decided that you are not to do anymore planning for the wedding unless it has to do with your own attire."

"I can't--"

"Hush, as my wife in practice you will obey my order."

"Will I?"

The twinkle in her eye was dangerous, but he'd gone too far to back out now. "Yes, you will and I don't want to hear another word on the subject."

"I see. There's just one thing you could clarify for me."

"Go ahead."

"Who said you were the supreme ruler of our house?"

"Well-- I-- err--"

"Because I don't remember saying you could be in charge today or any other day for that matter."

"You know, I think I heard you talking in your sleep last night."

"I don't talk in my sleep."

"How do you know? You're asleep!"

"I'm a mother, I know everything."

"She does, Daddy," Drake confirmed as he strolled into the room. "Can we have breakfast now? I'm starving!"

"Sure, mate. You know your way to the dining room, don't you?"

"Yeah."

"Well--"

"Draco, I don't really want the twins wandering around. They could get lost."

"Gin, you're all moving in soon enough and are you going to escort them to breakfast every single morning or are you going to be busy with the baby at times? They know their way around and it's time we trusted them not to get lost."

"All right, all right. He can go down to breakfast on his own."

Draco grinned and winked at Drake. "What are you standing there for, mate? Go!"

The little boy didn't need to be told twice. He was out the door and on his way downstairs before Ginny could have second thoughts. As the door of the dining room loomed before him, he slowed his pace to a casual walk and strolled into the room as if he'd being doing it all his life.

"Good morning, darling," Narcissa said cheerfully.

"Good morning, Grandmother. Grandfather, can we go flying today?"

Lucius looked over the morning edition of the Daily Prophet he was reading while sipping his first cup of tea for the day. "Good morning, Drake. Where are your parents?"

"In their room."

"And why are they still in their room when you are down here?"

"Daddy said I could come down for breakfast, 'cause I'm starving."

"Why did they not accompany you?"

"Oh, I think they're shagging," Drake answered nonchalantly as he slid into his chair. "Can we go flying?"

Narcissa cleared her throat lightly and Lucius laid his paper on the table.

"What makes you think that?"

"Daddy said you might take me flying and you did say something yesterday about flying."

"We're not talking about flying. Why do you think your parents are--" Lucius paused, searching his mind for a better word that Drake might understand and coming up empty. "--shagging?"

"Daddy's not wearing his pajamas and his arms are all over Mummy," Drake responded, reaching for his pumpkin juice.

Lucius ignored the shocked gasp from his wife. "And this doesn't bother you?"

"Daddy let me come down on my own."

"I see." Lucius smirked. He was beginning to understand his grandson a little better every day. Drake had been given a little freedom to roam the manor and he was happy enough not to complain about his parent's current activity. "Do you often eat breakfast in your night clothes?"

"Uh huh."

"You haven't done so when you've stayed here before."

"'Cause Grandmother always made me get dressed first, but she wasn't around this morning." Drake grinned broadly at the head of the table.

"How would it look if I came to the table in my night clothes?"

"Wouldn't bother me, but you wouldn't be able to sneak past Grandmother, 'cause you share a room and she'd tell you to get dressed."

Narcissa brought her napkin to her mouth in an effort to smother her light giggles. Lucius was fighting a losing battle with Drake, yet he failed to recognize this. The little boy was too much like him and, though unintentionally, he was playing him at his own game proficiently.

At that moment, a sleepy looking Angel wandered into the dining room, still clad in her pajamas and rubbing her eyes. Lucius muttered under his breath about more pajamas appearing at the table as Angel made her way up to his chair. He fell silent as she clambered up on his knee and snuggled into his chest.

"Are you still tired, Angelique?" Narcissa asked quietly.

A small nod of her head was Angel's only answer.

"Perhaps, if you went upstairs and dressed for the day you wouldn't feel so weary," Lucius suggested.

"Want to have breakfast in my jammies like I always do," she muttered.

"Maybe you could sit in your own chair?"

"I want to sit with you, Grandfather. Daddy always lets me eat breakfast on his knee."

"Does he now? Well, I'm not your father."

She yawned widely. "I know, you're Grandfather."

"Lucius, leave her be. She's not awake yet," Narcissa advised in barely a whisper.

"I would like to eat my breakfast."

"Eat, she's just resting on you."

With an irritated sigh, Lucius reached around and picked up his cutlery. He stabbed a piece of bacon and began to bring the fork to his mouth.

"Mmm... That smells yummy, Grandfather."

"If you sit on your own chair you can have your own bacon."

"But yours smells so good." Angel pouted and looked at Lucius from under her eyelashes.

He sighed affectedly as her little mouth closed around his piece of bacon. "Perhaps you can sit in your own chair now and eat your own breakfast?"

The little girl shook her head making her strawberry blond curls bounce on her shoulders. "I like yours."

"I'm sure whatever is on your plate will taste the same."

"I like sitting on your lap. Don't you like me sitting on your lap, Grandfather?"

"Of course I do, but we're at the table and you do have a chair of your own."

"It's cold."

"What is cold?"

"The chair! You're warm." Angel snuggled into his chest again.

Lucius sent Narcissa a quizzical look. Apart from physically placing Angelique on her own chair and risking upsetting her, he was at a loss as to what to do next.

"There's no harm in her eating with you, dear," Narcissa whispered.

"Maybe not, but I don't want her to develop bad habits."

"It's just this once and she doesn't eat much."

"Very well."

Upon hearing she would be allowed to remain where she was, Angel sat up straight and waited for Lucius to feed her more bacon. He obliged her and began to feed her from his plate, though as time wore on he did wonder where her appetite came from as she successfully polished off every morsel of bacon on his plate.

"Have you had enough breakfast?" Lucius enquired as Angel swallowed the last of his bacon.

"Yes, thank you, Grandfather."

"Good," he drawled. "Why don't you go and dress for the day?"

"Can you help me?"

"No, you can dress yourself. I'm going to eat some breakfast."

"More bacon?"

"No. I think I'll have kippers."

"Oh. I'll go and get dressed then." Angel slid off Lucius' knee and wandered slowly from the dining room.

"Drake, darling are you finished eating?"

"Yes, Grandmother."

"Good boy! Go upstairs and get dressed then."

"Can I go and see Daddy? I want to see if we're going flying today, because he said we might and if he can't, then I can come back down and ask Grandfather."

Narcissa smiled at the expression on her husbands face. Lucius wasn't accustomed to being talked about as if he were not in the room and it seemed as though he didn't appreciate the gesture. "Of course, darling. Run along."

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

When Drake had vanished from sight Ginny rested back. She was most relaxed at the moment and wanted to savor the feeling for as long as possible.

Draco placed a light kiss on the top of her head. "Why don't we order breakfast in bed?"

"We should get up and go down. The twins might need--"

"My parents will be in the dining room, they won't mind."

"Breakfast in bed?" The idea of just staying here for the rest of the year was so tempting to Ginny. "All right, but only if your parents are okay with watching the twins."

Draco winked at her. "They will be."

In no time Draco had sent Millie to check on the children surreptitiously and make sure breakfast was sent up for them. Their trays arrived within minutes, brought in by two kitchen servants and placed gently over their legs.

"Are we going shopping for the bridesmaids' jewelry today?"

"No, we'll leave it until next week sometime or rather I'll leave it until next week. I can get mother to accompany me."

"Draco, I thought I was going with you."

"It has nothing to do with your attire for the wedding so you're not coming with me. I'll show you what we purchase, but you're not going to worry about things like that."

"But I--"

"No," Draco cut her off simply.

Ginny stabbed irritably at her bacon. While she was grateful not to have to rush around today, she would like to be there to see what's available for her bridesmaids. The jewels are meant to be a gift from her, after all.

"I think we'll spend a quiet morning with the children then you can have a nap after lunch in preparation for this evening. We can't have you yawning through our first dinner party."

She narrowed her eyes at him. "And what if there were things I wanted to do today?"

"You have plenty of time to take care of things. Today you rest!"

They finished their breakfast in silence. Ginny didn't know whether to be angry or not at Draco. He was certainly being imperious, but he was doing it for her own well being. In his own way, he was trying to look after her and that warmed her heart, overriding the anger that had been welling in her mind.

True to his word, Draco ensured they spent a quiet morning with their children. When the twins returned from breakfast Drake made certain to tell Ginny all about Angel sitting on Grandfather's knee to eat from his plate, earning Angel a stern talking to from her mother about appropriate behavior at mealtimes.

A walk in the grounds before lunch gave Drake an opportunity to show Ginny how far he'd come with the charm for the Ring Ceremony. He managed to levitate everything from leaves to small rocks and bring them back to the ground with amazing control. Draco was almost bursting with pride over his son's accomplishment.

"He'll have no problem with the ceremony, Gin," Draco whispered.

"It looks like he has the charm mastered, but will he be able to do it in a room full of strangers? It's a lot different doing it for us."

"Of course, he will. He's a Malfoy, love."

"Draco, he could still get nervous and totally mess up."

Draco snorted. "Malfoy's don't get nervous!"

"Okay, dear, you keep saying that and you might just be able to convince yourself."

"Gin, he'll be fine. He's our son and he's destined for greatness. This little charm is nothing for him."

"All right, but we'll have measures in place in case it goes wrong on the day."

"No problem with that. My father will be in the front row and I'll ask him to have his wand at the ready, just in case."

"Good."

"Why don't we wander back to the house for lunch then you can have a nap."

Ginny thought to protest his insistence that she rest this afternoon, but in truth she was tired and the time in bed would do her good. "What are you going to do while I'm resting?"

"I'm going to spend the afternoon with the kids. Drake wants to practice some more and, if we have time, I'll take him flying. Angel said something about riding also, so we'll take the horses out for some exercise."

"Oh, you have the afternoon planned."

"Yep, that way you've nothing to worry about while you're meant to be resting. The twins will be entertained the entire afternoon so they won't be getting into mischief. I'm actually looking forward to spending some time with both of them."

After lunch, Draco walked Ginny upstairs and ensured she was comfortably tucked into their enormous bed before returning to the children. He had quite an afternoon planned for the three of them and was eager to get on with the activities. The photographer was also coming to look over the manor and the gardens, but as Ginny hadn't mentioned the appointment Draco had not reminded her. He knew she wouldn't have gone to rest if she thought she might miss out on seeing her old school friend.

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

Colin arrived at the front doors right on time. He'd had to Apparate to the front gate of the impressive manor and walk from there, so he made certain to arrive earlier than expected. The servant that granted him entrance to the house showed him to one of the smaller parlors near the foyer. He waited restlessly for some time before Draco appeared in the doorway.

"Creevey, sorry for keeping you waiting. I had a small crisis with Angel." Draco strode across the room with confidence.

"Quite all right, Mr. Malfoy. I hope it wasn't anything too serious."

"I wonder sometimes where a broken nail factors in on the serious injury scale." Draco smirked as he offered his hand to the photographer.

"I think it depends on the witch in question," Colin replied in good humor.

"Shall we get on with it then. Perhaps, a look through the grounds and the ballroom first, then we can go over the contract," Draco suggested. His demeanor had switched from light humor to businesslike in a blink of an eye.

"Sounds good. I need to see where the best vantage points are in the ballroom especially."

"We'll start there." Draco set off at a brisk pace.

As Colin followed the blond wizard through the halls of Malfoy Manor, he tried to take in as much as possible. The wealth the furnishings and other appointments oozed was a little overwhelming to the Muggleborn wizard, who had grown up in a modest home. He lost count of how many rooms they passed before Draco stopped at a set of grand double doors. Colin made notes on the ballroom and then again when they entered the immaculate gardens. He assured Draco time and again that their wedding photographs were going to be spectacular with such a beautiful setting.

When Colin was satisfied he had seen enough of the grounds to plan a photographic shoot, they returned to the house. Lucius was waiting in his study to discuss the contracts. He had insisted on being present to at least meet the man they were entrusting to record their wedding and to ensure that he signed the required document. The contract they had drawn up left no room for negotiation whatsoever. If he wanted the job it, would on their terms alone.

With no other choice, Colin signed the contract before he left. Both Malfoy men had made it perfectly clear that if he were to breach any of the conditions of the document there would be serious consequences, of the like that were not mentioned in the agreement. While talk of such events worried him, he was a professional and had no intention of breaching any of the conditions, mostly because Ginny was a friend.

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

"Gin love, time to wake up." Draco gently stroked her arm and smiled as she frowned.

"Time?"

"Time to get ready for dinner."

"Do I have to? Can't I just stay here?"

"Yes, you do have to and no you can't stay there. Come on... Sit up. I brought you a cup of tea to get you started."

Ginny cracked one eye open. "You brought me tea?"

"Okay, I had a servant bring it up, but it was on my command."

"That's more believable." Ginny had learned very quickly that Draco wouldn't do anything if a servant could do it for him.

"Drink your tea and then you've got a bubble bath waiting for you."

Ginny sat up and leaned back against the pillows. "How did you spend the afternoon?"

"Spent some time with the twins, Creevey came to look over the grounds and sign the contract, spent some more time with the twins."

"I forgot Colin was coming."

"It's all right, I handled it and he's signed the contract." Draco was rather happy that Ginny had been napping when the photographer arrived. He wouldn't have been able to impress upon the ex-Gryffindor what would befall him if he broke the contract as effectively if Ginny had been present.

"Okay, I'll Floo him Monday and apologize for not being there to meet him. So what did you get up to with the kids?"

"A little flying, a little potion brewing, some first aid--"

Ginny sat forward, panic clearly crossing her face. "First aid? Who was hurt? What happened?"

"Angel broke a nail."

"Is that all?"

"Yes, but by the way she carried on, you'd swear her arm had been severed."

"She gets that from you."

"Me? Hardly!"

"You're far more the drama queen than I am."

"I resent that statement."

"No, you resemble that statement."

"Drink your tea!" He was quite relieved she was in a playful mood, it was indicative of a good night and with his friends coming he wanted her to be as bubbly as he knew she could be so they would see exactly why he was deeply in love with her.

Ginny obediently sipped her tea. When she had drained the delicate cup, Draco assisted her into the bath and left her to soak while he prepared for the evening himself. After a quick shower, he dressed in charcoal gray dress robes and ensured his hair was picture perfect. When he was happy with his appearance, Draco returned to the bathroom to help Ginny out of the bath. Before he left their rooms, he told her not to hurry and to come down when she was ready. He would be down in the parlor to greet their guests on arrival so there was no need for her to feel she had to rush.

She dressed slowly, taking extra care with her makeup and hair. It took her several different hair charms before deciding on the perfect look for the evening. With a final glance in the full-length mirror, she took a deep breath to calm her nerves and left their chambers. While she tried to make the trip downstairs last as long as possible, Ginny found herself standing in the doorway to one of the formal parlors at the front of the great house before she knew where she was.

Narcissa had made certain she understood the protocol of such events and she was under strict instructions not to enter the room until Draco came forward to take her arm. It was very different not to do what she would have done in the past under the same circumstances, but these people were accustomed to different etiquettes than she and to please Draco she was willing to adopt some, not all, but those she was comfortable with.

He had been watching the doorway closely, waiting for her appearance and when she did come into view, she nearly took his breath away. The emerald green robes she was wearing hugged her curves beautifully. She looked like a queen coming to survey her minions.

"Ginny," Draco smiled broadly as he made his way to her side quickly. "You look gorgeous, love."

"Thank you," she whispered.

"Don't be nervous. You'll like everyone and their dying to meet you." He brushed a light kiss across her mouth. "Smile."

She took a deep breath and schooled her features into a pleasant expression complete with winning smile. "I'm ready."

"Good girl." Draco gave her an encouraging wink before threading her arm through his and leading her forward to the group of people waiting. "Everyone, I'd like to introduce you to Ginny. Gin, you remember Blaise, Greg, Vincent and Millicent from school and this is Katarina, Blaise's wife. This is Natasha, Greg's date for this evening."

"Hello, everyone." Ginny smiled brightly from beside Draco.

Blaise stepped forward and pick up her free hand, brushing his lips over it. "Ginny, a pleasure to see you again."

"Umm... You too... And congratulations--" Ginny looked around the handsome wizard to his wife. "--to both of you, Draco told me you were married over the winter."

"Yes, we were. Did he tell you our children were going to be terrorizing Hogwarts together?"

Draco cringed comically. "Sorry, I forgot to tell you, love. Katarina is pregnant and due around the same time you are."

"That's lovely."

"I doubt Professor Snape will think so," Greg chuckled. "Ginny, great to meet you again."

"You too, Greg. What makes you think Professor Snape wouldn't be happy?"

"Have you any idea what Blaise and Draco got up to at school? Somehow I don't think having a junior Zabini and junior Malfoy running around together is going to please the old boy."

"Probably not, but he'll just have to get over it," Ginny laughed lightly.

Draco stood back as Vincent stepped forward. He observed Ginny greeting his friends and their partners, as if they were old acquaintances of her own. The time she was taking with each of them surprised him, in a pleasant way, and he relaxed for the first time that evening. She was doing splendidly, making small talk and showing genuine interest in what they had to say. If she was still nervous she was hiding it well.

Blaise made his way to Draco's side. "She's perfect for you."

"I know."

"Is this her first dinner party?"

"Does it show?"

"No, not in her, but you're a different story. You're watching her like a hawk."

"I suppose I am. I just want her to do well in situations like this. It's important to the business, when we entertain that she puts on a good front."

"You've nothing to worry about, mate. She's handling it like a professional."

"Yeah, she is, isn't she?" Draco smiled as he watched Ginny laugh lightly at something Greg was telling her.

"So where are your kids tonight?"

"My parent's have them, but they're bringing them in to see everyone soon."

"Great." Blaise rolled his eyes at his wife. "Katarina loves kids. She'll go nuts over them."

"She never struck me as the maternal type," Draco said thoughtfully as he watched the tall, dark haired witch.

"It was a bit of a surprise to me as well, but I can't say I'm sorry. My mother has been on at me since the wedding reception to produce an heir or suffer her wrath."

"So, that's where my mother got her strategies from."

"You've got two and she's still giving you a hard time?"

"Yeah, before we found out Gin was pregnant again she was already putting her order in for a few more."

"Odd creatures, mothers. They spend all those years pretending we're not doing anything and looking disgusted when they come upon solid evidence that we're not as innocent as they like to pretend we are then the moment we look like we're in a solid relationship, they're ordering grandchildren." Blaise shook his head. He'd never understand his mother and often wondered how his father managed all these years.

"Tell me about it. My mother still acts shocked when she finds us at it and we've got two children already."

"So even though she's expecting, you're still getting plenty of action?" Blaise enquired in barely a whisper.

"You know the Malfoy charm, mate. She just can't say no." Draco winked cheekily.

"I mean... She's actually willing, not just obliging you?"

Draco looked at his old friend. He began to think that Blaise's enquiry wasn't so much to do with his love life with Ginny, but more to do with Katarina's behavior. "Has Katarina been a little... Shall we say... Eager for your attention?"

Blaise rubbed the back of his neck uncomfortably and glanced apprehensively at his wife. "Yeah-- she's been really eager."

"So has Ginny."

"I don't get it. They're pregnant, so shouldn't they be swearing off or something?"

"That's what I thought, but if anything, she's getting even more-- more--"

"Wanton?"

"Yeah. We were having dinner the other night and she started--doing things to me."

"Bloody hell, at least Katarina waits until we get to the bedroom."

Draco chuckled heartily at his friend's stunned expression. "You realize that all through our teens we wanted women to be like this and now we're questioning what's happening when we get our wish granted."

"Bizarre isn't it? So what are you doing about it?"

Draco shrugged. "Going with the flow for now. I don't know what else to do."

"It's not like we could actually say no."

"Wouldn't do any good anyway," Draco replied with a smirk.

A gently cleared throat at the doorway garnered everyone's attention. Lucius and Narcissa were standing just behind the twins, who were dressed for bed.

"Oh they just adorable!" Katarina said delightedly.

"Thank you," Ginny accepted the compliment gracefully.

"Come in you two," Draco encouraged.

"We'll be back in while to collect them," Lucius advised quietly.

"All right, but don't come back too soon. I've a feeling they'll be busy." Draco grinned broadly.

The twins walked into the room slowly, holding hands. They both looked around at the strange people who were staring at them. Some they had met previously, but others they'd never seen before.

"This is Drake and Angelique, everyone." Draco introduced his children with pride. The couples had drifted together as the children made their way into the room. "Drake and Angel, this is Mr. and Mrs. Zabini."

Drake stepped forward and shook hands with Blaise. Grandfather had given him some hasty instruction on the correct protocol to greet guests and he was eager to please. Then he gently lifted Katarina's hand and placed a wet kiss on the top of it.

"Oh, he's just darling!" Katarina giggled lightly despite her wet hand.

"And you must be Angel." Blaise stepped forward to greet the little girl standing behind her brother and staring at him with wide gray eyes.

"Hello," Angel said softly.

Blaise smiled genuinely at the little girl. "Hello, aren't you pretty?"

"Yes," Angel answered confidently with a toss of her nose.

"Well, she's certainly your daughter, Malfoy." The tall dark haired wizard laughed heartily.

"Nothing wrong with being sure of yourself." Draco winked at his friend.

"Hello, Angel," Katarina said.

"Hello."

"How old are you?"

"Five."

"Blaise is right, you are very pretty."

"I--" The sound of her father clearing his throat purposely gave her reason to pause and look at him. He sent her a look that changed her mind about what she was about to say. "Thank you, Mrs. Zabini."

"You're welcome, sweetie."

"All right, let's move you two on or you won't be in bed before midnight," Draco said as he ushered the children towards the other guests.

Drake repeated his hand shaking with the other couples and Angel was as charming as ever. The only person Angel seemed a little reserved with was Greg. He had been in Diagon Alley the day she'd had her accident and she was a little embarrassed when she came face to face with him again, but some quick words from Greg put her at ease.

By the time the children had greeted everyone and had small conversations with all, Lucius was standing in the doorway waiting to take them upstairs. When they complained that they didn't want to leave, he told them unequivocally that it was time for bed and their arguments were falling upon deaf ears. They took as long as they dared to bid everyone goodnight before allowing their grandfather to take them upstairs.

"Good Merlin, Drake is so much like you, Draco. I don't know whether to be worried or not," Millicent exclaimed when the children were out of sight. "It's almost as if someone cloned you."

"It is a bit scary," Vincent agreed. "Especially, as he has your attitude."

"I'm not that bad," Draco said emphatically.

Greg slapped Draco on the shoulder. "I believe you, mate. Of course thousands wouldn't, but they're wrong."

"No, they're the smart ones," Millicent countered.

The room burst into laughter. Ginny had observed the interaction between Draco and his friends. She had come to a most astounding conclusion -- they were just like her and her friends when they all got together.

The appearance of a house elf in the midst of the joviality sobered everyone quickly. "Dinner is served, Master."

"If everyone would like to make their way to the dining room." Draco sought out Ginny and then they led their guests to dinner.

Course after course of fine cuisine was served as the conversation was kept light and entertaining. There was a lot of reminiscing between the Slytherins and Draco kept a close watch on Ginny during those conversations. He didn't want her to feel left out and was surprised when she offered the view of the Gryffindors on the antics that were played out at Hogwarts.

"So I guess you see a bit of Potter?" Blaise asked Ginny.

"He's like a brother to me."

"Really?" Her statement didn't surprise Blaise in the least. It had been common knowledge that Potter spent a great deal of his summers at the Weasleys while they were at Hogwarts.

"Harry's the twins' godfather," Draco offered. He saw no point in hiding the fact from his friends as they'd all have to learn to get along with the Auror otherwise it would make for some difficult entertaining decisions.

"Well, you weren't around to protest," Vincent stated.

Ginny stiffened visibly and she glared at the man harshly, but before she could verbalize her thoughts Draco spoke up resolutely. "After seeing how Harry is with the twins and getting to know the man, I can't think of a better person for the job of godfather for my children."

"I didn't--" Vincent started.

"I don't care, I won't have him badmouthed in this house. He was good enough to step in when I wasn't around and he's done right by the children-- my children. With our history, a lesser man wouldn't have given them the time of day."

"Sorry, I truly didn't mean to disparage the man." Vincent Crabbe looked thoroughly humbled making his apology.

"It's all right, but if you can all just keep in mind that he's considered a part of Ginny's family and as such, a part of mine."

"We can do that," Greg assured him.

"We're allowed to talk about old times with him, aren't we?" The sly smirk on Blaise's face was bordering on wicked.

"Of course." Draco winked and returned the smirk.

The evening flowed well after that. Ginny relaxed again and spent much of her time talking with Katarina about her impending motherhood. Natasha and Millicent listened in politely as the two witches nattered about pregnancy, occasionally offering their opinions.

It was very late when the party broke up, but before they left Vincent made a point of speaking to Ginny just to ensure he was forgiven for his earlier misdemeanor.

"I just wanted you to know that I really don't wish any harm or ill feeling towards Potter."

"That's all right. You're entitled to your opinion," Ginny answered tightly even though a smile graced her lips.

"I'm not in danger of feeling the effects of your wand then?"

"No, not at all."

"Good." The relief in the man's voice was unmistakable. "I still remember when you made Malfoy sneeze bats in our fifth year. Gave me nightmares for a month, that did."

"Mmm... The Bat Bogey Hex. A personal favorite of mine," Ginny laughed.

"Well, it's been a good night, Miss Weasley, and we'll more than likely catch up before the wedding." Vincent inclined his head formally and added in a hushed whisper, "Don't let Malfoy forget who's boss."

Ginny smirked. "Oh, don't worry, Mr. Crabbe, I don't take orders from anyone."

After they had seen everyone out Draco and Ginny climbed the stairs to their chambers. When they had finished their usual evening bedtime routine they lay in bed wrapped in each other's arms.

"Did you have a good night?" Draco asked in a sleepy voice.

"Yes, they're nice people."

"I told you that you'd love them."

"I know you did and you were right."

"You and Katarina got along exceptionally well."

"We have something in common, but that's not to say that I didn't like Natasha or Millicent, because I did. Katarina and I have got our pregnancies to talk about and it was probably a little difficult for the other two to join in the conversation, but they did make an effort. Greg and Blaise are really funny too. Did I tell you Vincent apologized again before he left? He wanted to make sure I would hit him with a Bat Bogey Hex next time I saw him." The whole time Ginny had been speaking, her fingers had been tracing over his lower back and down to his backside. She tickled his skin suggestively and when she got no response, she pulled her head back. Draco had fallen asleep while she'd been prattling on about his friends. Ginny stretched up and placed a light kiss on his lips to which he smiled in his slumber and rested her head on his chest as she went through the memory of the night in her mind again.

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

Draco and Ginny slept late on Sunday. Draco had arranged for his parents to care for the children until just before lunch, when they had to prepare to leave for a charity event. Lucius had taken the twins riding first thing in the morning and then flying. It seemed he wanted to make the most of his time with his grandchildren while they were still at the manor and he was most disgruntled that he couldn't spend the entire day with them.

When Draco and Ginny emerged from their chambers the children were having morning tea in the gazebo. They returned from flying with Lucius ravenous and while it was too early for lunch, Narcissa felt that they needed something to fill their stomachs so she arranged for a small selection of snacks. With the knowledge that they could serve lunch later than usual, Draco took Drake off to practice some more on his charm for the wedding. He wanted to practice here, rather than at the Burrow, where many people were likely to be offering their Knuts worth in advice.

While they were eating lunch, Ginny noticed that both the children seemed to be extraordinarily tired and decided that some quite time before they went home was in order. She didn't need to be dealing with overtired children tonight, because as far as she knew most of her clan were gathering at the Burrow for dinner. Under protest, the twins were led upstairs after they'd finished eating and deposited in their respective chambers with instructions to rest, if not nap.

While Draco took care of some pressing business, Ginny made her way directly to her own chambers to sort out what she was taking back to the Burrow and the belongings she would leave at the manor. This process every time she stayed was tiresome, but necessary, even though Draco had made certain she had everything at the manor she could ever need, she did like to make sure she didn't leave anything she would require at home during the week. She'd just finished deciding what would travel back to the Burrow with her and had decided to take the weight off of her feet for a little while when Draco wandered in to see what she was up to.

"Having a rest yourself?"

"I'm not really tired, as such-- Not after getting up so late this morning. I just thought I'd put my feet up for a while."

Draco grinned nefariously at her. "Not tired, eh?"

"Not at all," she whispered as his mouth came down to plunder hers.

By the time they parted, Draco was laying on top of her and both were panting heavily. Draco lifted his weight off to the side of her as his thumb traced patterns on her hip. Unable to help himself, he leaned in and ran his tongue up her neck.

"Go and make sure the kids are occupied," Ginny purred as her hands trailed over his chest licentiously.

"Be right back," Draco breathed out more than said. He'd check the twins were all right and then he'd come back for some quality time with Ginny before she headed back to the Burrow.

It didn't take long to ascertain that both children were happily playing in their chambers. He told them that he and Mummy were having a serious discussion and to stay where they were until he came for them then they'd head back to the Burrow. With the twins promising to stay in their rooms, Draco headed back to his own chambers with a large confident grin on his face that only a man who was heading to bed with a beautiful woman could wear.

His eyes almost left his head as he entered the bedchamber. Ginny was lying on the bed totally naked and looking at him hungrily. He pushed the door closed with his foot, withdrew his wand and muttered a locking charm strong enough to keep everyone out of the room. Disturbances were not welcome this afternoon. Draco started to remove his clothing, which had become suffocating since he entered the room as he crossed the floor.

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

"We should think about moving. The kids will be wondering where we are," Ginny said in a not very convincing tone. She would have loved to have stayed the entire afternoon right where she was, wrapped in Draco's arms, safe and warm, but it wasn't possible.

"Yeah, I think a shower is in order," Draco agreed absently. He didn't really have the energy to lift himself off the bed, let alone walk to the bathroom.

"Mmm... A shower."

"Gin, don't fall asleep."

"I'm trying not to."

"Come on, let's move before you do then." Draco sat up slowly and took a deep breath. "Up woman! We'll shower and then we'll feel better."

"I feel good, I'm just sleepy."

"We don't have time to be sleepy. Come on, you can lean on me all the way to the bathroom." Draco slid off the bed and pulled Ginny up so she was sitting on the edge of the bed.

"It's not fair," she grumbled as he pulled her up to stand in front of him.

"I know, love."

They showered together and dressed quickly. While Ginny was still fiddling with her hair, Draco went to collect the children from their chambers. They were due at the Burrow for a family dinner, but Ginny had wanted to arrive earlier so the children would have time to play with their cousins. As soon as she was ready they would leave.

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

"Drake, time to go mate," Draco called as he walked into his son's room. "Drake, where are you?"

The silence that greeted him didn't disturb him greatly. Drake was probably playing so intently he had hadn't heard him or perhaps he'd wandered down to Angel's rooms. Before he left, he checked the bathroom and Drake's dressing room just to be certain the small boy wasn't in his rooms.

Draco hummed a little tune under his breath as he walked the short distance to Angel's rooms. He could hear his little girl playing animatedly with her dolls in her sitting room.

"Hey, princess!"

Angel jumped up from the floor and threw herself at his legs. "Daddy!"

"Where's Drake?"

"In his room."

"No, I checked in there."

She shrugged her shoulders. "I don't know."

"Have you seen him since I came in before?"

"Nope."

Draco frowned. Perhaps he'd gone downstairs to the kitchen or one of the servants may have seen him. "Okay, Mummy is waiting for you in our chambers."

"Are you coming?"

"No, I've got to find your brother."

"Okay."

Draco watched Angel skip down the corridor. When she'd turned the corner he summoned Millie.

"Sir did call Millie?"

"Have you come across Drake this afternoon?"

"No, Master. Master Drake was playing in his room. Millie has not seen him since lunch."

"Check with the other servants and report back to me immediately. I'll be in my chambers."

"Right away, Master."

"Just be quick about it," Draco snapped before striding towards his chambers. He was beginning to become a little concerned. There was every possibility Drake was in the kitchen stuffing his face, Draco knew he'd snuck off to the kitchen enough times as a boy to dine on delectable sweets his parents denied him, but the servants were more than happy to serve. He knew Angel would have reported Drake's absence to Ginny and she would immediately begin to worry.

"Where is he?" Ginny was on her feet the moment Draco came through the door.

"I've got Millie questioning the rest of the servants and if they haven't seen him, we'll mount a search."

"Oh God, Draco, the lake--"

"He's not likely to have gone swimming, love."

"His broom, where is his broom? What if--" She couldn't finish the question. The thought of what may have happened if he took his broomstick out on his own was just too terrifying for her to contemplate.

"Shh, he knows better than to touch his broom without supervision. We'll find him." Draco kept his voice soft so as not to further alarm Ginny, but her panic was becoming infectious. "He's probably holed up in the library or the dungeon, totally lost in what he's doing, or stuffing his face in the kitchen."

"What if he's not?"

"Then we'll search the house and the grounds and we'll find him."

Millie Apparated into the room with a loud pop. "Sir, Millie has asked all servants. No Little Master has been seen since lunch."

"Draco." Ginny's voice was wavering on all out panic.

"It's all right, love. Just stay calm." Draco turned to the house elf. "Assemble all the servants in the foyer immediately. I want to speak with them before we

search the house."

"Yes, sir, right away, sir."

When Millie had Disapparated, Draco turned his attention back to Ginny. She was visibly trembling. He gathered her into his arms and whispered into her ear. "Don't worry we'll find him. I want you to stay here with Angel, okay?"

"I have to do--"

"No, you don't need to do anything. You need to calm down and trust me. I'll find him, Gin." Draco lifted her chin so he could look into her eyes. The fear he felt was directly reflected in her cinnamon orbs. "I promise."

"The minute--"

"He's found you'll know, love." Draco kissed her forehead and released her. He turned his attention to his daughter. Angel had sat silently throughout their discussion. She was staring at Draco with wide, pleading eyes. It seemed she was feeding off of Ginny's fear and if he didn't put a stopper in the situation soon he felt certain it would get out of control. "Angel, I want you to stay with Mummy and look after her while I find that brother of yours. Okay?"

"Okay, Daddy," Angel whispered.

"Good girl. Do you remember how to summon Millie?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"If you or Mummy need anything, you summon Millie right away. Can you do that?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"That's my girl. I'll see you soon." Draco placed a light kiss on her forehead before leaving the room.

He walked directly to the top of the grand staircase. As requested, every servant in the manor was assembled below. When he came into view silence fell over the hall.

"Drake has gone missing. I want a full search of every room in the house starting with the common family areas, the dungeon and then moving to the southern wing. If we haven't located him by then we'll extend the search to the unused portions of the house and the outdoors. The moment he is found I am to be advised. Dismissed!"

Draco remained on the first floor landing as the servants scattered to follow his orders. He took a few deep breaths before heading to the library. With the absence of Narcissa this afternoon, Draco felt Ginny needed the support of an older witch and a quick Floo call to the Burrow was in order.

Arthur answered in the kitchen of the Burrow. Draco's expression must have let on that there was a crisis, because Arthur immediately asked if everything was all right. In the few minutes it took to convey the situation to the Weasley patriarch, Draco felt the weight of the world begin to lift from his shoulders. Arthur assured him the boys would be there in seconds and they'd have Drake found in no time.

True to his word, by the time Draco walked to the foyer, the Weasleys were hammering on the door. As Draco opened the large door, Ginny's brothers began to file in, firing questions at him as they stepped over the threshold. Most of which he ignored, as he tried to keep count of how many men were entering the house. When he finally closed the door behind Molly and turned around he noted that all of Ginny's brothers, her parents and Harry were standing in his home. It amazed him how quickly this large family could come together when needed.

Bill stepped forward. "Dad said Drake has gone missing."

"Yeah, he was playing in his rooms and when I went to get him to go home, he was gone. The servants haven't seen him all afternoon and so far they've not reported finding him in the areas common to him in the house. Once they've searched our family areas then we'll move on to the less used portions of the house."

Charlie nodded thoughtfully. "All right, where do we start?"

"Gin's worried that he might have wandered outside without being seen by anyone, so maybe we could split up into a couple of groups--"

"Right--" Charlie looked at his brothers. "--Ron, Fred and George, come with me. We'll take the gardens."

"She was worried about the lake," Draco admitted, his voice wavering a little.

"First place we'll check," Charlie said solemnly as he patted Draco's shoulder. "Just tell us what the quickest way out there is."

"I'll have a servant show you," Draco muttered. The notion that having the extra help could prove to be more of a hindrance than anything else crossed his mind as he realized that the other men didn't know their way around the manor and could just as easily get lost. "Umm... If you find yourself unable to find your way out of a wing or you don't know where you are the best thing to do is head for the center of the house and then straight toward the front. Work that out and you won't get lost as well."

"We'll be fine, mate," George assured him.

"Never met a problem we couldn't solve," Fred added.

Draco nodded in acknowledgement and then summoned a house elf to show the men out to the lake. As they were disappearing into the bowels of the house, Draco called out to them, "If you find--"

"You'll be the first to know," Charlie replied.

"Where should we start?" Bill asked.

"The southern wing. He might have wandered down there. It's where we're going to live once we redecorate."

"Okay, just tell us the way," Harry said. "Then take Molly up to Ginny."

Draco gave the men directions to the wing and promised to check with them on their progress. He intended to flit between Ginny, all search areas, and cover the spaces in between.

"Tell Ginny not to worry, we'll find him," Arthur said as he followed Harry.

"I will. Just find him fast, Arthur," Molly answered. "Draco, show me where Ginny is then you can join the men, dear."

"Umm... This way."

Molly nattered the entire way to their rooms. She kept assuring him that the boys would find Drake in no time, but the more time that passed the less Draco believed that they would find him. He had no idea just how long he'd been missing and he began to mentally berate himself for indulging his desires instead of looking after the children. As he opened the door to their suite he heard Ginny jump out of her chair.

"Drake?"

"Not yet, love."

"Oh, Ginny." Molly burst into the room and immediately encompassed her daughter in a hug.

"Mum, we don't know where he is--" Ginny broke down sobbing on Molly's shoulder.

"Shh, the boys will find him."

Draco approached the women and placed his hand on Ginny's back. "Gin, I'm going to go help with the search. The moment we find him, I'll let you know."

Molly smiled and nodded. "Just go and bring back your little boy."

"I'll be back soon," Draco whispered before leaving the women alone. His heart felt like it was being squeezed in a giant's hand and he knew if he stayed in the room much longer he would have been in danger of breaking down himself. He had to find Drake and soon.

Every house elf Draco passed was thoroughly interrogated on the areas that had been searched and where they were heading to next. No word from Charlie prompted him to head out to the lake first. He shuddered to think what might have happened if Drake had wandered outdoors and he hoped he was still inside the house, somewhere.

As he exited the house, he could hear Ginny's brothers yelling for his son in the distance. He made his way quickly towards the sound of their voices. They were alongside the lake, checking all the ground between the shore and the house as they went. Charlie was at the waters edge peering across the lake, seemingly inspecting the water for any sign of the little boy. Draco's stomach lurched at the thought of what might be found in the dark water.

"Charlie, any sign at all that he might have come down here?"

"No, nothing. If he did come outside, he came without anything but himself or he hasn't left anything behind. We'll keep searching."

"None of this makes sense."

"It won't until we find him. How's Ginny holding up?"

"Not good, but your mum is with her now so she's not alone, at least."

"Wouldn't you be better off in the house?" Charlie noticed Draco's expression go dark and he realized that what he said might have been misconstrued. "You know it better than we do. You know, less chance of you getting lost."

"Oh yeah. Sorry, I'm not thinking too clearly."

"Understandable. Just go back and I'll let you know if we find him."

"Okay, I'll check with you soon."

"Fine." Charlie watched the blond man stride away. The droop of his shoulders gave him a defeated appearance and that worried the Hogwarts Professor more than anything.

Draco went directly to the southern wing. He hoped they had found Drake, perhaps playing in his new rooms or running around the family parlor, but when he located Arthur, he was disappointed to find that Drake had still not surfaced. With Arthur's insistence Draco moved on to other areas of the house. He wanted to check the dungeon himself. He had a feeling Drake may have wandered down there to do some potion brewing and he desperately hoped he was wrong. Lucius would not be pleased if he had used any of his more exotic ingredients.

A very real sense of panic was beginning to set in after inspecting the dungeons and coming back up to the main house without his son. Draco wondered if he should summon Lucius. Another man with full knowledge of the manor would be helpful and perhaps Drake would be found sooner, if he were still here. The thought that he may have wandered outside and so far that he was now off the property had crossed Draco's mind as well, perhaps he was lost or worse, someone had snatched him. He paused for a moment, leaning against a wall and breathing deeply. If he didn't get this sense of panic under control immediately, he'd make the situation worse for all concerned.

"Draco?"

He lifted his eyes and stared into the emerald green orbs of his son's godfather. Draco could see by the look of concern in the other wizard's eyes that he didn't have good news for him. "Harry, what if he's not here?"

"He has to be. We'll find him soon."

"I keep thinking that he could have wandered off the property and someone might have--"

"No! Don't go down that path... Not yet. Where do you suggest we look next?"

"The unused portions of the house. It's all that's left."

"Okay, you stick with me. I don't think you should be on your own."

"I wanted to check with Charlie again."

"He'll let us know if he finds him."

"Yeah, I suppose he will."

"Come on, show us around the rest of the house." Harry placed his hand on Draco's shoulder. How uncertain the blond wizard looked astounded him and he put his own panic aside to ensure that Draco wouldn't loose control of his own emotions.

"This way."

Harry kept a close watch on Draco the entire time they searched the ground floor. It seemed as though with every room they left without the little boy Draco's shoulders slumped further and his eyes showed just a little more of the panic he was trying to hide.

Drake had been missing for hours now and everyone involved in the search was becoming more worried with each passing minute. There had been no word from Charlie and the other men who were still searching the gardens. As they climbed the staircase to the first floor to continue their search all their faces were grim and the thoughts that were now parading around their minds were frightening to say the least.

"This part of the house has been unused for as long as I can remember," Draco explained as he led the men into the eastern wing. "I presume the servants clean, but we don't come down here at all."

"Why wouldn't you use it?" Bill asked curiously.

"No need to, as you can see the house is enormous and we just don't need to use this wing."

"I wish I had space to lay aside like this," Percy muttered.

Draco snorted derisively. Of all the Weasley men he liked Percy the least. The man seemed to think by pretending he was more than he was, he would become more than he was meant to be and it didn't sit well with Draco. In Draco's opinion, you couldn't pretend to be aristocratic, you either were or you weren't.

"We'll each take a room off this corridor. I suggest we leave the doors open as we search so we know what rooms we've been in and we can close the wing back up later," Bill suggested authoritatively.

"Yeah... Okay," Draco responded absently.

"If we don't find him soon we'll contact the Ministry," Harry whispered in Draco's ear. "We can order a full scale search of Britain if necessary."

"I just--How could he have gotten away from us?" Draco expressed his frustrated thoughts. "It's all my fault. I put my own bloody pleasure ahead of the kids and this is my punishment."

"Calm down, mate. We'll find him."

"I really don't want to know what your pleasure was either," Bill said knowingly. He didn't need a picture to be drawn for him; he knew exactly what Draco had implied he was doing when Drake went missing.

"Let's get on with it, boys." Arthur entered the first room in the corridor.

The air in the rooms was musty, with a pungent odor of disuse. Swirls of unsettled dust flew through the air as the men inspected every inch of each room before more moving onto the next. When they met at the end of the first corridor, they moved onto the next and then the next. Draco was half way through searching a bedchamber that had belonged to one of his great-great Aunts when it occurred to him that he had missed inspecting one room on the ground floor that Drake was familiar with -- his father's study.

With a hurried explanation yelled over his shoulder, he ran the entire way to the concealed corridor through the center of the house. As he entered the long corridor that led to his father's inner sanctum Draco began to yell for his small son.

"Drake! Drake, answer me!"

"No good yelling, boy."

"He can't hear you from here."

Draco turned on the portraits of his ancestors. "What do you mean he can't hear me from here? Where is he?"

"This generation has no manners."

"Answer me you old bastard or I'll have you hung next to your wife," Draco hissed at his great-grandfather.

The old wizard in the portrait sneered at him. "You can't, you're not Lord of the Manor!"

"I will be in four weeks," Draco growled in a low dangerous tone. "Now tell me where my son is."

"Very well, I saw him on the third floor, east wing. He ran right past my other frame."

"You have another frame?"

"Of course I do! We all do!" The elder Malfoy looked down on Draco with disdain.

"All right, all right. Exactly where is your other frame?"

"I told you, boy! It's on the third floor, east wing," the portrait told him impatiently before turning to his neighbor and muttering, "Some Lord of the Manor this one is going to make... He doesn't even know where everything is."

"Yes, I heard that much, but exactly where on the third floor might I find it?"

"Second corridor, half way down, opposite the bust of my father."

"Thank you," Draco ground out before he turned on his heel and sprinted back to the foyer. He cursed himself the entire way up to the third floor. How had he not thought of asking the portraits of his ancestors before? Drake could have been found hours ago if he'd stopped and thought about the situation rationally.

When Draco reached the third floor he ran all the way to the second corridor and then slowed to a fast walk. He checked every portrait he passed until he reached the one his great-great-grandfather told him of and only then did he stop. As he glanced up and down the corridor he realized he had no idea which way Drake had run past the portrait. He ran his hands through his hair and cursed loudly.

"Really, there's no need for such language."

"Great-great-grandfather, which way did he go?" Draco shouldn't have been surprised to see that the old man had followed him through the other portraits.

"He ran that way and then I heard a door slam."

"Thank you." Draco headed off further down the corridor, checking each room he passed thoroughly before moving on to the next.

He knew that some long dead ancestors once inhabited this wing and it hadn't been used in many decades, if not a century. The air was musty and breathing was akin to sucking in pure dust. He trudged on, swearing that once he was Lord of the Manor he would have the entire household cleaned from top to bottom no matter whether they were using the rooms or not.

"Drake! Drake, answer me. I know you're up here -- the portraits saw you."

Draco paused when he heard a small noise coming from somewhere ahead. He was almost to the end of the second corridor and decided to bypass the rooms he hadn't yet checked. He was almost certain the noise had come from the third corridor. He rounded the corner and peered through the hazy air. A small figure was standing about two-thirds of the way down the corridor.

"Drake?" Draco began to run towards the small boy. When he reached him, he dropped to his knees and gathered him in his arms. Relief flooded through his body as he held his son. "Drake! What on earth are you doing up here? Did you go for a walk and get lost?"

Draco's hands moved over his son's body, checking for injuries and the like. Drake was filthy. His clothes were dusty and grimy. His face was smudged with dirt or dust, Draco couldn't tell. Satisfied that he hadn't hurt himself, Draco held him at arms length and looked into his eyes.

"What are you doing up here?"

"Is it too late to go home yet?"

Draco frowned. "No, it's not too late."

"Oh." The little boy's face fell with disappointment.

"Did you get lost?"

"No, I knew where I was."

"Then why are you up here?"

Drake fell silent and looked decidedly guilty as he tried to avoid his father's gaze.

"Drake, why were you up here?"

"I don't want to go home," he whispered.

"Why?"

"I want to stay with you."

The pieces were starting to fall into place in Draco's mind. "So you hid up here hoping that by the time we found you it would be too late to go home?"

Drake nodded and a large tear ran down his cheek, leaving a bright trail through the dirt.

"Mate, why didn't you just tell us you didn't want to go home?"

The little boy shrugged as another tear escaped and his breath hitched.

"Let's go see Mummy, she's been worried sick about you," Draco said gently as he picked Drake up. "We can sort how this happened later."

When they reached the first floor they found the search party Draco had been with waiting by the staircase for them.

"What are all of you doing here?" Drake looked around at the men who were all greeting him with expressions of relief.

"Looking for you, ratbag," Bill chuckled as he answered.

"I wasn't lost," Drake replied indignantly. "I was hiding."

Harry blinked at his young godson. "Hiding? We've been searching all over and you were deliberately hiding from us?"

Drake sighed. "No, I was hiding from Mummy and Daddy."

Draco opened his mouth to elaborate, but closed it again. It would be better for them to hear Drake's reasoning directly from him.

Percy regarded his nephew with contempt. "Why would you hide from your parents?"

Drake rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. A move that made Percy's features harden in disapproval and the rest of the men smirk. "'Cause I don't want to go home."

"Why don't you want to go home, mate?" Bill was curious. As far as he was concerned Drake was perfectly happy living at the Burrow and the biggest concern was going to be when he had to move into Draco's house.

"I want to stay with Daddy."

Arthur smiled. His daughter was going to be furious when she discovered her son's reasoning for disappearing this afternoon. "I see, and did you tell Mummy about this?"

"No."

"Why not?"

"She would have taken me home anyway," Drake sighed affectedly.

"I think we should go and see Mummy so she knows you're safe," Draco announced. "Could one of you let Charlie know we've found him?"

"I'll let the boys know," Bill offered.

"Harry, do you remember where the summer parlor is?"

"Sure."

"I'll meet you all in there, after I deliver this one to his mother."

"Okay. Some drinks wouldn't go astray either, Malfoy," Harry suggested with just a hint of seriousness.

"Consider it taken care of." Draco summoned Millie. He gave her orders to pass on the knowledge that Drake had been found and to serve drinks in the parlor immediately for the search party. With that taken care of he left the men to find their own way downstairs and took Drake to his mother.

Draco paused just outside his chambers and placed Drake on his feet. "You know Mummy has been very worried about you. We thought something terrible had happened so she's going to be all over you. Do you understand?"

"Yes, Daddy."

"Good man. Come on before she decides to join the search herself." Draco stood up and took Drake's hand, leading him through the sitting room and into the bedchamber.

Ginny gasped as Draco led Drake into the room. She flew to her son instantly and encompassed him with her arms. "Drake! Oh, Drake."

"He was hiding from us in the east wing," Draco explained softly. She needed to know that his disappearance wasn't an accident.

"Why did you hide from us?" Ginny asked still holding her son tightly.

"I don't want to go home," the little boy responded while pushing his mother off of him.

"Why would you not want to go home?"

"I want to stay here with Daddy."

"I'd miss you if you didn't come home."

"But Daddy gets sad when we leave," Drake insisted.

"What?"

"He told me today!"

"We had a talk earlier this afternoon, while we were practicing for the wedding. Drake asked me how I felt when you went home and I told him it made me sad, because I missed the three of you. I didn't know he was going to do this though."

"Why didn't you just talk to us?"

"'Cause you would've still taken me home and Daddy would be sad."

"Drake, you scared us when we couldn't find you. We thought something terrible had happened to you and we'd never see you again. You must never, ever hide like that again."

"Yes, Mummy."

"I don't know what I'd have done if you hadn't been found," Ginny whispered into his hair.

"When are we going to live with Daddy?"

"We're going to move in when we get married."

"That's ages away," Drake sighed.

"It's not really that far away now, mate," Draco said cheerfully. He wanted nothing more than to join his son in pleading to Ginny to move in now, but he knew that pushing the issue with her wasn't a good idea. "I know I'm looking forward to it."

Molly had stood back and let her daughter reunite with her son, but now she could see that Draco and Ginny needed to talk so she stepped forward. "Why don't I take Drake and give him a bath? He's all dusty and grimy. Come on, Drake, there's a boy."

Draco helped Ginny to stand when Molly had led their son from the room. "Sorry, love, I didn't know he'd go and hide when it was time to go home. He just asked the question and I answered honestly."

"It's not your fault." Ginny sighed heavily as she thought over Drake's reasons for giving them heart failure. "It's mine. I've only been thinking about what others might think or how they'd react, instead of considering what's best for the twins."

"And what do you think is best for the twins?"

"I think they need to be living here with you. We need to be a family, a real family."

"So move in," Draco said eagerly, but as her eyes shot up to meet his he sobered. "It's up to you, love. You know my feelings on the subject, but whatever you decide, you know you have my support."

"I don't think I can handle much more at the moment and my brothers wouldn't let this happen without some sort of token protest. I don't have the energy to deal with them."

"Let me take care of your brothers."

"Yeah, then I'll have their protest, upset children and an injured fiancé to take care of. It could get ugly, Draco. They're so protective and they're not going to like the idea of me moving away from their control."

"As if anyone controls you," Draco snorted. "Gin, you do what you want and I'll take care of any consequences. If they want to protest then they can, but it won't change the fact that you're making your decision based on what's best for you and the children."

"Me and the children," she muttered almost to herself. It would be the right thing to do for the twins. They needed their father. They needed to feel like they were part of a normal family. Not to mention her desperate urge to be with Draco, perhaps she would be able to sleep properly if she were here with him.

"Just think about it, Gin. I'll go down and thank your brothers. I'm sure their wives are wondering where they've gotten to."

"Yeah, they probably want to be getting home," she answered absently.

Draco placed a kiss on her forehead. "Think about it," he whispered before striding out of the room.

As he trekked the familiar path to the parlor, Draco thought over Ginny's words and moreover what he heard in her tone. She wanted to say yes, he could feel it and now it was just a matter of convincing her to utter the word. It was the right thing for all of them, and it would happen sooner or later anyway, so there was no point in pushing her to make the right decision. On his approach to the parlor, he overheard an intriguing conversation between the waiting men. He paused just in the doorway to eavesdrop.

"Ron, I meant to ask you something before," Fred said with a cheeky smirk.

"Yeah."

"What was it you and Pansy were doing beside the stream?"

Ron flushed bright red to the tips of his ears. "Nothing!"

"Mum said you'd gone for a walk."

"We weren't doing anything!"

"Didn't look like it to me. In fact you weren't walking, were you? I mean you can hardly walk when your dick--"

"Shut it!"

Bill chuckled and slapped his youngest brother on the shoulder. "Don't worry mate, Fred used to take Angelina for a walk all the time."

"Just drop it," Ron growled. He was beyond being mortally embarrassed. Pansy was becoming impossible to satisfy and she was even attacking him subtly in front of his mother. Not that Molly had noticed or if she had, she'd not said anything yet. "It's not my fault."

"Not your fault!" George almost dropped off his chair laughing. "How can it not be your fault? You take her for a walk and end up on top of her!"

"It's not! You don't understand. She's... She's... she attacked me, all right?"

"What's wrong little brother?" Fred feigned concern.

"Aren't you pleasing her?" George spluttered through his laughter.

"She wants it all the time and she doesn't care where we are." Ron had started now and was finding it difficult to keep his worries to himself, even though he knew he should just shut his mouth to save himself the embarrassment. Pansy had always been very open with him, but she had reached a new level in past weeks that was wearing him out. He'd tried talking to Harry about it, but he was in the same position with Hermione and didn't have any idea where the women's sudden urges had come from. "Last week at work, she dragged me into a janitors closet and started ripping my pants off. What the bloody hell am I supposed to do?"

"Hang on a minute. You're complaining about her appetite for sex?" Charlie asked incredulously.

"She wasn't this--this hungry before. I don't know why she suddenly wants to be doing it twenty-four hours a day."

The older Weasley brothers all looked at each other knowingly. They had been through what their youngest brother was experiencing and the time had come to let him in on the secret.

Bill cleared his throat loudly. "The answer is easy, mate. You see there's one thing they don't tell you about your pregnant wife, or fiancée, in your case. When they get over a certain stage in their pregnancy they just want more sex. Most of the time they're insatiable."

Ron frowned. "That doesn't make sense."

"I know," Charlie said quietly. "The objective of sex has been achieved -- they're pregnant, but nature is cruel and it makes them want it more often than they do when they're not pregnant."

"That explains a few things," Draco muttered just loud enough to garner the attention of the men in the room.

"Pardon?" Percy glared at Draco.

"Umm--" Draco stepped further into the room and stood in front of the seven men. He cursed himself for not keeping his thoughts silent. He was sure they didn't want to know what their sister was like in the bedchamber. "I overheard your discussion and I-- That is, Ginny's been-- you probably don't want to know."

"Got that right," Ron growled. The thought that his sister was behaving in much the same manner as Pansy was enough to give him nightmares for life.

"Hermione's the same," Harry said loudly as Bill and Charlie walked over to Draco. He'd hoped to distract them with his comment, but it went unacknowledged. They were firmly focused on their future brother-in-law.

Charlie's large hand landed heavily on Draco's shoulder. "Ginny's been the same as Pansy?"

"Insatiable?" Bill added quizzically.

"Err-- Yeah, sort of," Draco replied uncomfortably. This discussion couldn't be good for his health, but he couldn't think of how to extract himself from the room elegantly or inelegantly, for that matter.

"What's sort of?" Charlie whispered into his ear.

Draco swallowed hard. This was the torture and in a moment they were going to kill him, he was sure of it, but his curiosity was getting the better of him. These men knew the answers to his questions. They could tell him why his fiancée, their sister, had been acting so odd lately. "One minute she's bawling, the next she's biting my head off and then she's-- She's ripping my clothes off."

Charlie snorted with laughter. "Mate, if she's still crying over nothing, she hasn't even hit her stride yet."

"Just give it a few weeks and you'll be looking for reasons to work late."

"Or wondering when you're going to get to eat your dinner while it's hot," Bill added humorously.

"God, I hate it when Anya wants to disturb dinner. A man needs sustenance!"

"She's already tried that." Draco mentally cursed himself when he looked around at the astounded expressions on the other men's faces. He hadn't meant to say that aloud.

"Too much information!" the twins cried in unison.

"What's too much information?" Molly asked as she peered around the room.

"Nothing, Mum," Bill answered casually. "Ron was just telling us about his walk with Pansy this afternoon."

"Did you have a nice walk, dear? I didn't see Pansy before we left."

"Yeah, Mum, we had a nice walk. Pansy was walking back to the house slowly." Ron glared at his oldest brother. Pansy had needed more time to right her clothes, but she insisted that Ron go ahead and see what was going on with Drake after Fred disturbed them.

"Lovely, just as long as she was all right." Molly smiled broadly. "Well, the twins have been bathed, so I'll just go and say my goodbyes to Ginny then we'll be out of your hair, Draco."

"Stay as long as you want, Molly," Draco said as the woman bustled out of the room.

"We should start heading back to the Burrow. The women will wonder what happened to us," Bill said.

"Did someone Floo them and let them know we'd found Drake?" Harry asked.

"Yeah, I did. Penelope said she'd pass the message on to everyone," Charlie answered.

"While I've got you all here, there's something I wanted to ask," Draco said.

"Yeah?"

"Drake hid today because he didn't want to go home. He wants to live here and I've been trying to get Ginny to move in before the wedding for a long while, but she won't. Now she's seriously thinking about moving in as soon as possible. What sort of reaction could she expect from all of you?"

The men looked around at each other. None really liked the idea, but whether it was before or after the wedding wouldn't change their attitude.

"You and Ginny have got to do what's right for the kids. If moving in here is the best thing for the twins, then we won't give either of you any grief over the decision," Bill assured him.

"Thank you. She was most worried about how you'd all react."

"She'll have to come home the eve of the wedding. It's bad luck otherwise," Molly instructed from behind Draco. She'd wandered back to the room when she heard the apprehension in Draco's tone.

"I can live with that."

"Has she agreed to move in?"

"Not exactly, but her thoughts are leaning toward it more than ever before. I think with all of your support she'll make the right decision."

"Right decision for whom?" Percy asked ostentatiously.

"For the twins. They need to be here where we can see each other every day and it would help if they were settled before we go on our honeymoon. Look, I won't pretend that I'm not being selfish in my wish for her to move in, I want her and the children to be here every day, but I haven't pushed the issue."

"Do you want us to have a word to her?" Bill asked.

"I don't know if it would help, but if she knew none of you would get upset--"

"Consider it done." Charlie winked at him. "We don't have to make a big deal of it, just a comment or two about what Drake needs."

"Thanks, I'd appreciate it."

"What does Drake need?"

The men all froze in place. None had seen Ginny enter the room and how much she'd overheard was in doubt, but they all knew if they didn't come up with a viable story she would tear them all to pieces.

"After hearing why Drake hid from everyone, we were just telling Draco that we think Drake really needs to be living here with him."

"Oh... You do?"

Charlie draped an arm around his sister's shoulders. "Gin, all little boys need their dad around."

"Drake sees his father most days."

"I couldn't imagine not living under the same roof as Beau," Bill said seriously.

"Drake knows nothing different."

"That may be so, but it doesn't mean it's the right thing for him. Just think about it, Ginny. He needs to be living under the same roof as his father for reasons you just can't fully appreciate."

"What is that suppose to mean?"

"It means that because you're a woman you look at things differently to us men."

Ginny grinned at her oldest brother. "You say that like it's a bad thing."

"I didn't say it was. Look, Gin, all we're saying is boys need a different sort of guidance to girls."

"Today wouldn't have happened if you were living here already," Charlie reminded her.

"So you want me to move in with Draco, before we're married?"

"We think it'd be a good idea for all of you." Bill looked around the room, daring any of his younger brothers to contest the statement.

"Actually, we're a little surprised you haven't moved in already," Fred said flatly.

"You are expecting the man's third child," George added.

"He has a right to be involved," Ron muttered. They were Pansy's words coming from his mouth. She was constantly wondering why Ginny hadn't moved into the manor yet and they had vehemently debated the subject from time to time.

Ginny nodded thoughtfully. She had no doubt Draco had put her brothers up to this little stunt. How he got them to agree, she didn't know, but it would be amusing to find out. At least she knew they wouldn't cause any drama if she did decide to move in earlier than planned.

"We should all leave them in peace now," Arthur announced from the doorway.

"Yeah, my stomach's beginning to think my throats been cut," Bill said with a grimace. He pulled his sister into a warm hug. "Think about what we said, Gin."

"I will. Thanks for helping in the search."

"Any time."

Charlie followed Bill; he also reiterated what they'd told her about moving in earlier for the twins' sake. After hearing this same thing in different words another couple of times from her other brothers, Ginny stood back and looked at all of them as they prepared to Disapparate from the front porch. She looked to Draco, who seemed to know what she was thinking by the hopeful expression on his face.

"Umm-- Before you all go I'd like to thank you for helping to find Drake this afternoon." While the boys all uttered no problem or words of a similar vein, Ginny watched Draco's shoulders drop a little in disappointment. "There's one more thing before you go-- The twins and I will be moving in with Draco as soon as we can make the arrangements."

"You're serious, Gin?" Draco asked hopefully.

"Yes, I'm serious. How soon can we arrange to get our things brought over?"

"Umm-- We could start tonight." Draco could hardly contain his delight. She was moving in and he would be able to wake up next to her every morning. They could finally become a real family.

"How about we finish tonight? If we all pitch in, we can have you all moved in no time," Charlie offered.

"That sounds like a plan. What are we waiting for boys? Let's get to it! Mum, can you organize some dinner at the Burrow so we can eat on the run?" Bill took charge. He was almost relieved when Ginny made her announcement. It was the best thing for all of them and no one would stand in her way, while he was around.

"Why don't we take the children back to the Burrow? I can give them their dinner while you move everything," Molly suggested.

"I'll get them ready and we'll be there soon, Mum." As Ginny started up the staircase she could hear her family Disapparating from the front porch.

"Gin, wait up love."

Draco was running up the stairs to catch up to her. His smile was evidence enough of his feelings about her decision.

"Yes?"

"Thank you. I promise you won't regret moving in early." His arms wrapped around her and he kissed her soundly.

"I know I won't. It's going to be wonderful," she whispered as she rested her head on his chest and soaked up the warmth of his embrace. This was truly a new beginning for all of them. They would be a real family at last.

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