Chestnuts roasting on an open fire
Fleur made her way down the stairs, her son in her arms. Eying the living room, she used her wand to straighten a few pillows on the sofa. "Gabrielle," she called. "The plates, s'il te plaît." Bouncing the five month old on her hip, she move through the room, eventually depositing Fabian in his bouncer. Making sure the child was comfortable, she turned around and called into the kitchen. "Gabrielle!"
Gabrielle hurriedly swallowed the food she'd managed to swipe off the plate and walked into the living room, carrying the plate. "What? I am 'ere."
Fleur frowned. "Do not eat off of zee plates of food. Zey are for zee guests." The elder blonde raised an eyebrow. "I know you are dix-sept now, but do try and be an adult tonight, oui." She raised a hand as her younger sister opened her mouth. "And non, Bill does not tell me what 'appens during zee day. I know you, Gabrielle."
Bill walked into the living room from his study and nearly turned around again when he saw the ocular fire being thrown between the two sisters. Perhaps it would be best to grab Fabian and escape to the 'Sticks or something. Who knew a simple Christmas party could be so hazardous to one's health?
"Hey, hey. What's going on here?" He stepped between the two. "Guests will start to arrive soon and you know how hard it is to get bloodstains out of the carpet."
Gabrielle turned her back on her sister and walked over to set the plates on the table. She really just wanted to smash them and spend the rest of the night in her room, but resisted. She didn't want to act childishly.
"Nothing iz going on, Bill," she snapped, feeling very much picked on. She crouched down in front of Fabian's bouncer to tickle beneath his chin, delighting in the smile and belly laugh.
Bill shared a look with his wife. Gabrielle had been in a mood ever since she had come back from term and there was no getting her out of it. "Well, if nothing's wrong, perhaps you should wipe that scowl off your face." He walked over to her, dropping a kiss on her forehead. "You look lovely."
It took effort, an extreme amount of effort on her part, but she did as he asked and cleared her expression. "Merci," she said, smoothing down the front of her jumper.
"Come on," he offered her his hand as she stood. "Why don't you help me bring in some of the wine? Nothing says Weasley Christmas more than alcohol and pie."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"No fighting with Percy tonight, okay?" Susan pleaded as they walked toward Shell Cottage. She didn't mean to nag, really she didn't, but she just wanted the brothers to get along. It wasn't fair to the rest of their family for them to make the evening tense. "You'll be nice, right? For me?"
"Sure. I won't do anything. In fact, to be safe I probably won't talk to him." He shrugged. He wouldn't initiate anything, knowing them, they'd probably get into a fist fight. He reached out for Susan's hand as they came to the porch.
Susan smiled and squeezed his hand. He was trying, and that was all she could ask. Bobbing up on tiptoe, she dropped a kiss on Ron's cheek, murmuring, "Love you," as he knocked on the door.
Gabrielle threw the door open with a wide smile. "Bonjour, welcome!" The smile widened when she saw Ron. He was always fun. "'Allo, Ron. And you are Susan. Bill 'as told me about you."
"Hey, Gabby." He grinned down at her and stepped inside, Susan behind him. "How have you been?"
She stood up on tiptoe, even then she could barely reach, brushing a kiss on each of Ron's cheeks before turning to Susan and repeating the gesture. "I am very well, merci. 'Ow are you?"
"We've been fine," Susan replied, grinning at the friendly witch. "It's nice to meet you. The Weasley family tree has so many branches, I wonder if I'll ever know everyone on it. Happy Christmas, by the way."
"Oh, um, this is Gabrielle, Fleur's sister," Ron explained to Susan. He turned to Gabrielle and said, "Gabby, this is my girlfriend, Susan. So, who's all here already? And do we eat soon, I haven't had too much to eat today, I'm starving."
Elbowing Ron in the side, Susan shook her head. "You just had a triple-decker sandwich an hour ago. Don't be rude!" Smiling apologetically at Gabby, she sighed. "You'll have to excuse him. Ron is 90% bottomless pit and 10% ill manners."
Gabrielle laughed and poked Ron. "I remember 'is appetite. I was eleven when I first saw it, and it gave me nightmares for weeks after. But where are my manners, may I take your coats?"
"Geez," Ron said, rubbing his side. "Feeling the love in this room. I can't help if my metabolism is really high," he grumbled. He took his coat off and handed it to Gabrielle.
Susan gave her coat to Gabby with a murmured 'thank you'. As the young witch left them to hang their things in the closet, Susan slipped an arm around her boyfriend. "There's plenty of love in this room, and you know it. If there wasn't, I wouldn't bother keeping my icebox stocked for you and your fast metabolism, would I?"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey felt the world become solid under her feet and as she untangled herself from Remus, she dared to look at her son, wrapped tightly in her arms. He looked no worse for wear after taking his first trip via side along Apparation. Thank Merlin.
"Are you sure its okay that I brought Dominic?" the blonde asked as fiddled a little with the little wool cap the infant wore.
"I'm positive," Remus smiled as Aubrey checked over Dominic. "Fleur would love to meet Dominic, as would Fabian. Just don't let the kids talk too much, they'll start plotting."
Remus was excited to go out to see Bill and Fleur. He'd seen them around, sure, but sometimes it was nice to actually spend some time with friends.
Aubrey rolled her eyes. "That's the last thing we need. Infants taking over the world." And I thought it was bad enough when mice were doing the plotting. As the pair walked up the short path towards the front door, she couldn't help but clutch her son just a bit tighter to her body. The one time she had met Bill and his wife, they were perfectly lovely, but she couldn't help but remember these were Remus' friends, and she was only here because he was.
She held her breath as Remus knocked.
Making sure his brother and his girlfriend were comfortable and knew where the food was, Bill went to open the door, a large smile gracing his face as he found Remus and Aubrey standing there. "Ooh, who do we have here?" He took a peek at the bundle in the woman's arms. "Excellent, another baby for Mum to spoil."
He moved out of the way to let the pair in.
Remus ushered Aubrey in before him, grasping his host's hand as he entered. "Bill, you remember Aubrey? This little one here is Dominic." He paused a moment, wondering whether he should have let Aubrey introduce her son.
He stepped forward as Aubrey met with Bill, to smile at Fleur. "Hello, Fleur, how are things?"
"Bonjour, mon ami." Fleur leaned over to kiss Remus on the cheek before turning towards Aubrey. "And zis must be Dominic, oui?" She grinned at the other woman. "'E iz just as pretty as 'is maman, zou not as pretty as my Fabian."
"My son is not pretty, thank you very much." Bill frowned slightly as he wrapped his arms around his wife's waist. "He's handsome."
Aubrey smiled, enjoying the playful bickering between husband and wife. "It's important that you think that, Bill." She pat his arm awkwardly as she tried to juggle Dominic and take her coat off at the same time.
"Bill!" Fleur mocked gasped. "You did not take zere coats!"
Bill rolled his eyes. "I was getting there, promise."
"I 'ave been putting zem in your study." Sniffing slightly, Fleur took Aubrey's hand. "Come, I will show you where to put zee baby stuff."
Trying not to grin, Remus looked sideways at Bill. What was the saying, women held parties and the men were just the hat stands? Christmas was invariably a mixture of fun and embarrassment. It looked to be a fun event, whichever way it went.
"So... how much fun was setting up?"
Bill grimaced slightly. He was still regretting suggesting the idea. "About as much fun as one of Snape's potion essays, I'm afraid." Bill shrugged and began to make his way over to his study. "Let me drop this stuff off," he held up the coats, "and I'll pour you a firewhiskey."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Percy had stood on the edge of the property, wondering whether or not he really wanted to go inside Shell Cottage.
At least it wasn't Christmas Day. The party surely wouldn't last the evening, and perhaps he and Ron would be able to get through at least this gathering without arguing. He pulled the bag of gift higher and sighed before pulling a cheerful look across his countenance. At least there would be brandy.
Gabrielle hummed a Christmas carol as she headed for the door, wondering who would be arriving next. She had bet with Bill that it was his parents, and she was only slightly disappointed (she was going to have to help with the dishes now) to see that it was one of his brothers. The one who had been dead.
"'Allo. You are ze one who was dead, no?" she asked, smiling expectantly.
Percy barely kept himself from rolling his eyes, and began in rusty French, "And you were the one at the bottom of the lake, sister? Merry Christmas."
She beamed at him when she heard the French. "Yes, zat was me. 'Appy Christmas to you as well, come in," she said that all in a rush as she moved to the side and closed the door behind him.
"Thank you, I will," Percy replied. "Though, I do hope you won't require much more French from me. I'm afraid my vocabulary is exhausted, save for things not repeatable in a lady's presence." He kissed both of her cheeks in greeting. "How do you find yourself this Christmas, Gabrielle?"
"I am very well, merci," she said, taking his hand. "I will show you can put your coat. 'Ow are you?"
"Well enough, thank you," he replied, following his sister-in-law through the house to the closet, where he hung his coat, and then to the main room.
"This is your last year at Beauxbatons, yes?"
"Yes, I am very excited. I will be working at Gringott's after zat."
"Ahh, with Bill. If you ever get tired of goblins, I can always use a lovely hand in the Archives."
She scowled. "Non, Bill 'as replaced me. I am working in ze research department now." She glanced sideways at him. "Although, I will keep your offer in mind." After all, if she wasn't working with Bill, he couldn't control every part of her day. And he couldn't report back to Fleur.
"Indeed. Could you show me to the refreshments, perhaps?" This was going to be a long night.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I didn't expect to be this busy for the hols," Tonks said around her muffler as she and Bishop made their way to Bill's and Fleur's. They actually weren't too far from their own home, and Tonks had suggested a brisk walk instead of Flooing.
It was a bit colder than she thought it was going to be, and was thankful that her husband didn't seem to mind her stealing his body heat.
Tucking Tonks more tightly against his side when he felt her shiver, Bishop smiled down at her. "We do seem to be very popular these days. I imagine it's your influence. I wasn't ever on the 'A' list before I started escorting you."
"Must be," she replied, teasing. "Do you think we'll need to get a social secretary?"
"It's quite possible, especially once the baby comes."
The house was coming up closer, and Tonks was thankful.
"Did you manage to grab the gift bag?"
Bishop stopped short, turning wide eyes to his wife. "I thought you were bringing it."
"Which is why I said, as we were leaving, 'could you grab the bag please,'" Tonks replied dryly. She shrugged, moving towards the house. "It'll be your owl that sends the gifts then, not mine. She was exhausted and sprained a wing last year. This year'll be worse."
As they reached Shell Cottage, Bishop knocked on the door. He was still getting to know the Weasley family, but it was a good sort newness. Their family was expanding in many different ways, and Bishop couldn't be more pleased about it. Pulling something from his pocket, he cast a resizing spell and winked at Tonks as the gift bag appeared in his hand. "Oh, I guess I did remember after all."
"Prat," she said, poking him in the chest with her elbow. "Now you get to listen to me sing."
"As if I'd get out of that by being good," he retorted, sharing a private smile with her before the door opened and their host came to greet them.
Slipping out of the kitchen where he had every intention of sneaking in a quick snog as his guests entertained themselves, Bill rushed towards the door in his socks, nearly slipping on the freshly polished wood floor. He jerked the door open and stood to the side, welcoming Tonks and her husband in. "Welcome, welcome." He grinned widely, running a hand through his hair. "Ron and Remus and their dates are already here."
"Oh, good. We didn't want to be the first ones to arrive, even if we do live the closest," Tonks said, giving Bill a hug, and moving over to let Bishop in as well.
Extending his hand as he stepped across the threshold, Bishop grinned broadly. "Bill, good to see you again. Thanks for including us."
"You as well." Bill shook the other man's hand, raising an eyebrow at the last comment. "As if I had a choice. Tonks is a Weasley. Adopted, but one none the less. So I'll skip the if-you-hurt-her-speech I should have made at the wedding, take your coats, and show you where the firewhiskey is."
"A man after my own heart!" Bishop exclaimed, clapping a hand on Bill's shoulder. He had a feeling he'd enjoy the connection to the Weasley family, now that he'd been properly threatened by most of its members.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Arthur sat back and smiled. For a change, he was feeling run down, and he had claimed a chair in the lounge that was out of the way enough that he could have a little peace, but central enough that everyone could find him.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill grinned as he spotted his mum across the room; she must have snuck in behind his back. Glad she was not in the kitchen, Fleur was nervous enough as it was, he skirted around the sofa, picking Fabian up from his swing as he went. Although he knew his mother would be happy to see him, she would want to see her grandson more. He knew how the pecking order went. Babies came first.
"Mum," he leaned down to kiss her cheek. "Happy Christmas."
Molly grinned up at her son before reflexively reaching out for her grandbaby. "Happy Christmas, Bill. Fabian," she cooed, holding him up in the air a bit above her before tucking the child against her chest. She darted forward and kissed Bill on the cheek once before she turned her attention to Fabian. "Are you having a good first Christmas, Fabian? I bet you are!"
"I think he's a bit bewildered, to be honest," Bill confessed. "I'm expecting him to thoroughly enjoy the wrapping paper and boxes more than the toys Christmas morning, but that doesn't stop Fleur from shopping compulsively for him." He leaned down and kissed her again. "How have you been? Enjoying your winter break?"
"Oh, dear, that's how all mother's work. Our brains think 'well, they're grow into it!' and we have no choice." Looking up at Bill as she bounced up and down a bit with Fabian in her arms, Molly smiled. "It's so nice, you inviting everyone over here. It's a nice change, not having to clean or cook for the holidays."
"Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it. I was beginning to think I made a mistake suggesting the party. I mean, Gabrielle's birthday was yesterday, so not only was Fleur stressed over this, she had to worry about last night's dinner and cake as well." He shook his head. "At least I sent her out to the new spa with her sister to relax."
"You're a very good man, Bill Weasley." Molly looked back down at Fabian, who looked like the day was already beginning to tire him. "Have you and Fleur discussed giving this little one a brother or sister?" She looked up at her eldest son with an innocent smile.
"Mum." Bill rolled his eyes. "Fabian's not even six months old. I don't know if Fleur could handle two toddlers. Hell, I don't even think I could."
"I did. Many times over. I promise, it's not as hard as you think," she said, fudging the truth a little. It had been very hard, but also very worth it.
Bill snorted. "Mum, remember these are Weasleys we are talking about. When have we ever been easy?" He grinned at her. "I wouldn't be opposed to it, of course, but Fleur wants to go back to work and I don't know if we can afford two children on my salary."
"You'd be amazed what you can afford when you need to." Molly looked down at Fabian. She and Arthur had stretched everything to give their children everything they could, and she didn't regret a second of it. She was happy, and her children were happy. She couldn't have asked for more.
"Alright, alright." Bill slung an arm around his mother's shoulders. "You don't have to twist my arm into doing it. Just sweet talk Fleur into it."
"And what iz your maman trying sweet talk me into?" Fleur came up from behind her husband, wrapping her arms around his waist. "'Ello, Molly. 'Ow are you?"
"I'm good, dear. Very good," Molly said, smiling at her daughter-in-law. "Thank you so much for having us all over. I know how much of an undertaking it can be. There's so many of us now... and with Devon and Corie arriving, our family just keeps growing!"
"It iz no problem." Fleur shook her head. "I like zee large family. Even zee adopted ones." She nodded towards where Tonks and Bishop stood before turning to where Remus and Aubrey were cuddled up on the couch. "Zee Delacours are small, but it iz nice to get zee best of both worlds, non?"
Bill grinned, turning so he could wrap his arms around his wife. "Wait until you see the cake I ordered from the Bakery in Hogsmeade. I asked for one large enough to feed a house full of Weasleys."
"Are you sure they make one that big?" Molly grinned.
"If not, it might be fun to see Ron wrestle whoever for the last piece." Bill knew he shouldn't tease his siblings when they weren't around to defend themselves, but if he waited until they were, there was a greater chance that he would get hexed.
"You are not being very nice." Fleur poked her husband in the side.
He shrugged. "I never claimed I was."
Molly grinned at her son and daughter, looking back to her grandchild. Yes, she was very happy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
They'd talked to her Mum and Dad, and eaten their fill of the food. Ginny was pleasantly full, sitting on the couch as she watched the majority of her family mill around. Their laughter was enveloping the house. She had watched her mother carefully when they'd arrived. She looked... relieved... that she hadn't had to cook for everyone.
She also looked tired.
Ginny turned to smile at Draco. "I shouldn't have eaten that much. You're going to have to carry me home."
"You did eat a lot," Draco joked, slumped next to her. "I'm not sure if I can."
He started laughing when she slapped at his arm.
"It's too bad Penny and Jack are sick. I would have liked to see Jack."
"If they have what's been going around, then no, you really wouldn't want to see him. There's green stuff coming out of several orifices..." She grinned widely when he groaned, clutching at him stomach. "Too soon?"
Draco started laughing again, hand still on his belly. "I did not need to know it was green. I still love you though."
He picked up her hand, threading his finger through hers as he brought the back of it to his lips.
Ginny grinned. "Good. So when I come home covered in it, you won't chuck me out into the tree house?"
"Have you been in the treehouse? It's actually rather nice."
She snorted. "Somehow that doesn't make the idea of not sleeping beside you better. I don't think the interior decorating would make that better."
"Um... who said anything about you sleeping alone? Ever again? There's not a bed in there though... just a hammock."
"Oh, even better," Ginny said, rolling her eyes as she leaned over and snagged her sparking apple juice from the table side the sofa they were sitting on. "I'm sure they'll be nights when one of us will be out there. Or maybe I'll just go to Harry and Luna's," she said, smirking as she took a sip of her drink.
"You will do no such thing," Draco growled.
He snuggled closer to her, kissing the side of her neck.
"You're mine, and I take care of what's mine. You can visit Luna but staying with Potter is out of the question."
Ginny laughed, her eyes closing at the feel of his lips on her neck. "That might be a bit harder than you think, Draco."
"Why is that? Look, I'm not saying you can't see Potter. I know he's your friend. I would never tell you who to be friends with. You just aren't staying the night where he is. That's all I ask."
"You can't ask me that," Ginny said carefully, turning to look at him. "That'd be like me asking you not to stay at Blaise's."
"Blaise is my best mate, and I've never dated him. You've... Potter... he's... you know."
"One of my best and oldest friends? Someone who I've known for years? Someone who saved my life once upon a time and who I am very loyal to? Yes. He is all that."
Ginny sighed. She knew Draco would never understand her relationship with Harry, and she wasn't asking him to. However, she would not cut the man from her life. He was too important to her.
"You're fine with me staying at Dean's, who I've also dated."
"Because I know the little bit is possessive. Also, I trust Thomas. We nearly died together. Besides, yes I am fine with your staying at Thomas' - not in his bed though. And no more in his pants."
"You trust Dean, but not me?" Ginny looked very seriously at Draco. "I trust Harry. I'm not asking you to trust him. I'm asking you to trust me."
"I trust you, but I don't like him. The thought of you with him makes this knot in my belly. What if you... you're mine. I don't want him to have you."
Ginny shook her head, putting her drink back on the table before turning to him. She wanted to tell him that there was no chance of anything happening between herself and Harry. Firstly because they were very happy where they were. Second, because they had walked that road. It wasn't meant to be. It just wasn't meant.
"Harry is my friend. I love him, just like you love Blaise. Just as you love Pansy. He is a large part of my life, and he always will be. That will never change, Draco. I don't know what I have to say to make you believe me, but I am very happy right where I am, with you. I don't need anyone else the way I need you. If I have to repeat it every day, for the rest of my days, to make you believe it, I will."
"I just don't want you staying the night with him," Draco groused.
"I'll make you a deal. I will only stay the night at Luna's house, does that make you happy?"
Draco glared. "You're trying to trick me somehow. I know you now. What? Does Potter live there now?"
Ginny grinned. She wouldn't say anything. She wouldn't do that to Harry. Her grin widened when her mother began frantically waving them over. "Ooh, Mum needs me." She shot off the sofa and across the room.
"Brave Gryffindor, my arse," Draco muttered, then added loudly. "Don't think this conversation is over because I caught you trying to trick me, and don't think you can make me forget with sex either."
Molly looked at Draco over Ginny's shoulder, shock on her face.
Draco just smiled widely, showing lots of teeth. If her family didn't know they shagged like rabbits then there was a bit of a problem.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey gave a little sigh as Dominic began to fuss. The infant was getting hungry. Flashing a small smile at Remus she rose and made her way towards Fabian's nursery, where Fleur had encouraged her to utilize. Settling into the rocking chair, the woman shifted until her son latched on.
Smiling slightly, Aubrey pushed back slightly, letting the chair lull her into a light doze. She liked Remus' friends. She found the Weasleys warm and welcoming, if not a little overwhelming. Nymphadora Tonks Rascaile was also invited, which made things a bit awkward. Of course, Aubrey had gone to the other woman's wedding, but she hadn't actually approached the Auror. She had no real reason to want to avoid the other woman, but she thought things might be awkward.
Shaking her head, Aubrey switched Dominic to the other side, still rocking slightly. If Mrs. Rascaile wanted to talk, she would listen.
Bill hurried into his son's nursery, said infant in his arms. Apparently tonight was the wrong time to introduce Fabian to semi-solid food. That, coupled with the continuous round of 'pass the baby' upset the poor child's stomach. Needlessly to say, his son needed a change of clothes.
Fabian was down to his nappy when Bill realized someone else was in the room. Spinning around, he quickly averted his eyes when he realized Aubrey was breast feeding. "Oh! Sorry." The tips of his ears burned hot.
A light blush staining her cheeks, Aubrey tried to laugh it off. "Don't worry about it." Looking to see if her son was done, she began to straighten her shirt before standing. "I was bound to flash someone, sometime."
"But-but my wife." Bill kept his attention on his son as he finished dressing the infant.
"Who you love very much." Aubrey laid her hand on his shoulder. "And I'm quite partial to Remus, myself."
Bill picked Fabian up. "Tell you what, how about we never mention this again?"
"I can do that," Aubrey agreed, moving out of the man's way.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Tonks had left Bishop with Bill; they were discussing something that made her eyes cross.
She thought she recognized the blonde off in the corner, and made her way over.
"I think you were at my wedding," Tonks began warmly. "Tonks Rascaile."
Aubrey gave a small smile. "Aubrey van Andel. And I was at your wedding. It was lovely." She looked over her shoulder to see Remus cradling a sleeping Dominic.
"Thank you, Aubrey." Tonks' brows furrowed slightly. "Are you Remus' Aubrey?" She looked a little young.
"Er, yes." The blonde winced as her voice squeaked slightly. Truth be told, the other woman intimidated her a little. Tonks was an Auror and Aubrey? Well, Aubrey was playing at being a librarian. "You went out with him...before?"
Tonks repressed a snort. It was obvious her presence made the younger woman nervous. "We were lovers for quite a while, yes."
Aubrey tried not to frown. Yes, the other woman and Remus had been lovers, but they certainly weren't now. Aubrey wasn't blind, she saw how Tonks looked at her new husband, and there was no way she could even consider that Remus could cheat on her. He was too...Remus. "How was your honeymoon?"
Tonks' smiled, "Just long enough. We went to Morocco. The food was fantastic, especially the dessert." Hit Wizard every night.
"Are you enjoying new motherhood?"
Aubrey nodded. "Often times I'm exhausted by the time I fall into bed, but I can't imagine it any other way." She glanced over at Remus again, a soft smile gracing her face as she watched the man hold her child. "I'm ridiculously lucky."
Tonks eyes followed Aubrey's, and she saw Remus holding whom she assumed was Aubrey's son. A pang went through her at the sight. It wasn't that she was jealous, per se, but she coudn't help the slight rush of emotion. Her hand went to her own abdomen, just beginning to show the signs of life itself.
"Remus has always been good with children," Tonks said fondly. She bit her tongue to keep from saying something untoward. "What is it that you do when you aren't mothering, Aubrey?"
"When we go back into term, I'll be back as the librarian at Sara Prep." Aubrey crossed her arms over her chest, suddenly feeling a bit on the defensive. Which was ridiculous, because what did she have to be defensive about? She had a job she enjoyed and a man she adored whom adored her and her son right back.
"My cousin Draco works with Sara Prep," Tonks replied casually, shifting her weight to her heels. "Have you met Percy yet? He's Head of Archives- I'm sure you'd have much in common concerning organization."
Aubrey shook her head. "You know that saying about too many cooks in the kitchen? I've already locked horns with Hermione Granger. I doubt I could handle another one of my fellow obsessive compulsives." She smiled slightly, to show that her words held no sting, lest the other woman think she meant to offend.
Tonks chuckled, "With Percy, it's more of a stick. A large one, firmly lodged right up his arse."
"Stick up his arse I might be able to handle," Aubrey mused. "Though I don't know how much use I'll get out the Ministry Archives, but you never know."
Tonks nodded politely, racking her brains for something else to say. She tugged on the end of her hair.
"Well, it was nice to talk to you." Aubrey gave a polite smile, sensing that the conversation was coming to an end. "Perhaps we'll see one another at another Weasley function?"
"I'm sure we will. If I don't get a chance, please give Remus my love," Tonks replied, relieved, before smiling again and turning to find her husband.
Aubrey nodded and breathed a sigh of relief as the other woman moved away. That didn't go too badly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Susan had wandered off to speak with his mother, so Percy took the opportunity to speak to Ron.
He wasn't surprised to see him hovering by the food.
"Do you have a moment, Ron?" Percy asked, trying to keep his voice pleasant and neutral.
"About what," Ron asked as he turned to see Percy. He had figured Percy would come up to talk to him at some point, but he thought it would have been after the article came out.
It wasn't my fault. It was Lavender's fault. She fooled me.
Percy opened his mouth to speak, but closed it, instead gesturing that they move into the kitchen instead of standing where they would be most likely interrupted.
He waited until he was leaning against one of the counters before starting.
"I was hoping that by asking the family to keep it to themselves where I had been and the details of such that you would realize it meant all of the family, and not include ex-birds from Hogwarts, Ronald."
"I-" Ron groaned in frustration. He should have known this was what it would be about. It wasn't like Percy had anything else to talk to him about. "How do you know about that?"
"Ha! So you did talk to Lavender Brown!" Percy said triumphantly before narrowing his eyes at his youngest brother. "That's beside the point, however. Why in the name of Merlin did you open your mouth? Do you really dislike me so much that you'd like the whole of the Wizarding world to know I'm alive so they can start hunting me again?"
"No! That isn't what-" Ron huffed, glaring at his brother. "Look, I... you... not that I have to explain myself to you, but it wasn't like that."
"You damn well better explain yourself, little brother. I asked you to keep something to yourself, you didn't. I want to know why. What was it like? She show a little cleavage and you spilled your guts? What about Susan?"
"What about... how dare you? I would never do that to Susan!" Ron stepped closer to Percy, thrusting his finger into his chest, "Watch yourself, Percy. No matter what happened, that's a bit far."
Percy wrapped his hand around the finger being poked into his chest, and pushed it slowly away.
"But you would to your brother," he said between gritted teeth. Ron was larger than Percy, and stronger, but that wasn't much on his mind at the moment. "What happened, then, Ronald?"
"It wasn't like that. Lavender owled me about writing a article, and I figured it was about Quidditch. Do you really think I hate you so much that I would give a tell all interview about you? Same old Percy, thinking everything's about you. What, did you think I sought her out to get back at you for all those years?"
"No, Ron, I knew she would seek you out because she came to me first. Do you really think all I think about is myself?" He shook his head derisively. "If I did, you'd be dead, you idiot. Keep your mouth shut."
He turned on his heel towards the door. "Happy Christmas, Ron."
Ron slammed his hand down on the counter in frustration, groaning. He wasn't going to chase after Percy. If he wasn't going to stay and listen how it really happened, then he could believe whatever he wanted. Ron was still too angry at him for the last six years to care what he thought.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Moving away from Remus, Aubrey found Molly sitting in the corner of the dining room, sitting and watching everyone. "Molly, hello." The younger woman settled down next to the Weasley matriarch. "How are you?"
Smiling, Molly turned her attention from her family and the room at large to the blond beside her. "Aubrey! I'm well, thank you. How are you? How is Dominic?"
"Loud and fussy," Aubrey grinned. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. At least now he lets me sleep through the night. But to be perfectly honest, I had a few ulterior motives when I came over to speak with you."
"Oh?" Molly rose an eyebrow.
"I'm having trouble thinking of a gift for Remus and I was wondering if you had any ideas? Also for your daughter, if it's not too much trouble. I wanted to get her something to thank her for delivering Dominic." Aubrey wrung her hands. "But mainly for Remus. Everything I think of is either too personal or not personal enough."
"Hmm," Molly said, sitting forward. She'd been knitting for the better part of six months. The sweaters made it easier on her, knowing exactly what she'd be getting everyone. "Well, Remus is quite fond of books. You could perhaps find out his favorite author and get a first edition. As for Gin, I'm not quite sure. She's a very practical person. She never had much use in jewelry or the like. Maybe something for her office at the clinic?"
"I like that idea for Ginny,," Aubrey said, an idea already forming in her mind. "But as for Remus, I love him dearly, but I know he hates the fact he can't afford certain items. I wouldn't want to shove wealth in his face." She sighed. "I see the way he looks at Dominic and I know it shouldn't be this hard. Perhaps I'm over thinking it."
Molly reached over and patted Aubrey's knee. "Remus is a proud man, and he'd be more than happy just to have you there on Christmas morning. He doesn't need presents to make him happy."
"Of course he doesn't need presents, but I happen to like giving them." She eyed Molly, speculatively. "Which not-so-gracefully leads to my next question. Over my maternity leave I took up knitting, though I'm not very good at it. I've seen you knitting a handful of times at the school. I was wondering if we could get together some time and you could show me what I'm doing wrong?"
Aubrey sat there, holding her breath. It was one thing to ask about gift ideas, it was another thing all together to ask about knitting lessons. She and Molly were acquaintances, not yet friends. As it was, Aubrey had help asking her friends for help.
Molly's eyes widened excitedly. "I would love that! I started to teach Tonks when she was on bed rest, and it was quite enjoyable. What have you been able to make so far?" She knew her hands weren't working as quickly as they used to, but she was looking forward to showing someone what she knew.
"Scarves." Aubrey's tone matched Molly's. She loved learning new things. "Mostly things that are flat and vaguely rectangular shaped. I know how to knit and purl, but I see those adorable little baby clothes and my fingers just itch."
"Oh, I'm old hat at making baby clothes. I can show you everything, really. We keep what the kids grow out of, as long as it's not torn up beyond belief." The fact that the clothes had been passed from Weasley to Weasley made this happen more often than not, but Molly had quite a few crates of old clothes in the attic. "You can see what you like and we can start there."
"Fantastic," Aubrey smiled at the older woman. "Perhaps sometimes after the holidays then? And I believe you just gave me an idea for Remus' gift."
Molly smiled widely. "Then I'm glad. After the holidays sounds good. With all the knitting and final things to do for presents, and the baking... I think I might be a bit lag until the fifth or sixth."
"And then we're back to school. I've missed the library." Aubrey sighed. "I went back in the afternoons a handful of times before break started, but it wasn't the same. Thankfully I've found a babysitter for Dominic three days a week so no one will get disturbed."
"So you're coming back? That's wonderful, dear. I'm sure the children will be happy."
"I was wondering if the children remembered me. I was only there a week before going into premature labor." Aubrey shrugged. "But I made a commitment and I don't intend to back out on it now. Besides, it gives me an excuse to see Remus."
"Which is always a good excuse," Molly said with a smile. "I'm sure the children remember you. You'd be surprised how much they notice."
"Oh, children notice more than they should." Aubrey grinned. "I'm fully expecting Dominic to be quite nosey and get into things he shouldn't. But that's what little boys do. Tell me, was your oldest, Bill, like that?"
"All my children were like that," Molly said with a laugh. "Precocious, inquisitive, questioning. It runs in our veins, I think."
"Well, from what I've seen of you sons, I can only hope that mine grows up to be half the man yours seem to be." Aubrey sniffed a little. "Remus is very lucky to have your family as friends and I know it's probably not my place to say it, but thank you."
Molly grinned, squeezing Aubrey's hand between both of hers. "Thank you, Aubrey, but it's really us who are lucky to have him."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill poured two brandies, one for himself and another for his brother. Spotting Percy on the other side of the room, he weaved between the furniture and the small groups of people. "So what was that about?" He shoved the second brandy into his brother's hand as he sipped his own.
"Our youngest brother not being able to keep his mouth shut. Thanks, Bill," Percy replied, taking a sip of the brandy, and sighing.
"I don't think Ron and I are close to getting along. I get along better with Fred than I do Ron at the moment."
Bill nodded, his eyes searching out his youngest brother. There would be words later, but now he had to smooth out some feathers and get some inspiration about Christmas gifts. "Git." He said simply.
"Poncy git. But it's Christmas, and I wouldn't want to upset Mother," Percy agreed. "Lovely party, though. I do believe Mother is very happy that she didn't have to cook this year. We may have to start doing holiday rotations."
Bill shook his head. "Before tonight I regretted coming up with the idea. Gabrielle's seventeenth birthday was last night." He eyed his brother. "Speaking of Gabby, I heard you might have offered her a job."
"I'm offering most people employment in the department if I think I can trust them. She may not always want to be under the eye of her older, protective brother, yes? It couldn't hurt to polish my French, as well." The conversation with Bill, along with the superb brandy, was doing wonders to calm Percy down.
Bill grinned. "She's still a bit pissed at me for transferring her over into research, but you can have her as soon as she leaves school. So," he swirled what was left of the brandy in his glass.
"So I've been doing my Christmas shopping. Any ideas for Jack and Penelope? I fully intended to pick Penelope's brain tonight, but then she got sick." He made sure to note how much his brother enjoyed the alcohol.
"I got Penny a gift certificate to that new spa," Percy started. He was disappointed as well that they were ill. He hadn't told them that he was going to be out of the country until after the new year. "As for Jackson, I got him a book on frogs. You know, one of the ones that has the layers and the interactive parts. I think he'll like it. They both love books, so you can't go wrong there. A voucher for an outing or babysitting? I'm sure neither would be remiss."
"Babysitting," Bill mused. "That just gave me an idea. Ron and Susan gave me a night of free babysitting for my birthday. Perhaps Ronnikins would enjoy a night with an infant. But I'll keep the idea about books in mind."
Percy grinned, "Oh, did he? Or was it Susan who suggested it? Regardless, do you think Dad would tell us the spell for his posters so we can watch?"
The elder Weasley snorted. "Susan volunteered on Ron's behalf. But Dad might tell us if we liquor him up enough. And if Mum was out of earshot."
"Most excellent. We should do that, then. Invite Charlie and Fred along. Fred could even bring his boys, make a night out of it." Far be it for anyone to think that mild mannered Percy wasn't a Weasley after all. He had his fair share of revenge and pranks, too.
Snickering, Bill raised his empty glass in a toast. "Fleur might not appreciate the use of our free night out, but as long as you showed me the pensive memory, I'd go for it."
"But of course. What kind of brother would I be if I didn't," Percy tipped his glass in acknowledgment. "Just don't tell Mother, or Ginny for that matter."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Moving away from Percy, Bill cut himself two pieces from the cake Fleur had ordered from the bakery in Hogsmeade and walked over towards his youngest brother.
Of all his brothers, Ron was probably the most volatile. He would have to go about this carefully. "Christmas is soon. Finished shopping yet?"
Ron snorted, still a bit annoyed from the Percy exchange earlier. "What do you think," he said a bit roughly. He looked down at the cake in Bill's hand and said, "that for me?"
"Of course." Bill rolled his eyes and handed the extra plate over. Sometimes his brother was too easy. "As for the Christmas shopping, I was just checking to see if I wasn't too far behind."
The pair fell into a silence as they ate their cake. "I was thinking about getting Susan something. Any ideas?"
Ron chewed for a moment, thinking. He hadn't even gotten her something yet. "I don't know. When in doubt I usually go for gift certificates. That way, I don't get hexed. Usually what I do for Gin."
Bill nodded to himself. "I still have to get something for Jack. Percy suggested books, but that seems too easy." He shrugged. "You have it easy I guess. Jack likes Quidditch, yeah?"
"I think I might get him something Quidditch related, yeah. A broom perhaps. One for his age, of course. I'll probably have to get padding too, knowing Penny... and Susan, for that matter." The corner of his mouth turned up a bit at the thought of the scolding he'd get about the broom.
The elder Weasley returned the grin. "Probably," Bill agreed. "Tell you what, I'll get some of the pads and you can get the broom. You can be the cool uncle and I can be liked by Penelope and Percy."
Ron chuckled, "Yeah sure. I don't think all the pads in the world are going to fix what's going on between me and Perce, so why bother?" He grabbed his drink and took a sip after he finished the last bite of his cake.
"What happened?" Bill feigned ignorance.
Ron shook his head, "I don't really want to talk about it." He took another sip of his drink and continued, "stupid misunderstandings about interviews with Lavender sodding Brown."
"The reporter from the Prophet?" Bill shook his head. "You should've known better, but what's done is done." He shrugged. "Sure you don't to get the pads instead of the broom? It'd make Mum happier if you and Perce weren't at one another's throats."
"Piss off Bill. I thought she was interviewing me about Quidditch. Only later, after I don't know, twelve drinks or so, does she even start to ask me about Perce. And then she tells me that she already talked to Gin about it. What the bloody hell was I supposed to think?"
"Well I didn't know that." Bill tried to calm his brother. All he needed was Fleur accusing him of ruining the party. Or his mum yelling. "And I don't know what to tell you. She got you drunk and lied to you. And you had a reasonable excuse for meeting with her." He paused, considering. "Did you tell Percy this? Without yelling?"
"I tried to," Ron practically shouted, flustered. "He wouldn't listen. Kept accusing me of stepping out on Susan. Pillock." His face flushed an angry red as he surveyed the rest of the room, noticing quite a few people staring back at him.
"And the Weasley temper strikes again." Bill looked down at his empty glass. He couldn't exactly remember how much he'd had. "Still, try and make nice? I only suggest this to make my life easier. If you two go at it, Fleur's going to want me to break it up and I don't feel like getting punched again."
"Pfft. I'll try and make nice when he stops trying to make nice with my girlfriend." Ron scowled, not caring that it had been weeks since the incident he was referring to.
Bill raised an eyebrow. "Do you really think Percy would do that? Mum and Gin like Susan for you. He's not going to try and take your girlfriend from you, lest he piss them off. Remember, he's kinda scared of them."
Ron nodded, still a bit skeptical. "Right, whatever."
Bill sighed. There was nothing else he could do; Ron didn't seem to want to listen. "Let me go get you something to drink."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey shrugged on her coat, fastening it tight before taking Dominic back from Fleur. "Thank you so much for having us. I had a lovely time."
The French woman leaned over and kissed Aubrey's cheek. "I am glad. You and I, we must get together, oui?"
Aubrey nodded. "That would be lovely. Tell me, does your sister babysit?"
Fleur gave a gallic shrug. "You would 'ave to ask 'er." She turned around, waving her younger sister closer. "Gabrielle, Aubrey 'as a question for you."
Gabrielle had started to doze off, eyes beginning to drift closed when Fleur called her over. She bounded over with a sleepy smile. "Oui?"
Aubrey smiled at the younger woman. "I saw how you were with your nephew. I was wondering if you would like to babysit once or twice before school starts again? Earn a little bit of money?"
"Oui, I would like zat very much." She nodded, glancing at Fleur for approval and beaming at Aubrey.
"Excellent." She put Dominic's hat on. "I'll owl you."
Gabrielle nodded and walked back to flop down on the couch. Within minutes the exchange was forgotten and she was fast asleep.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill yawned as the last guest left. Arguments between Percy and Ron aside, everything went well. He only regretted that He hadn't gotten to speak to his father beyond the quick and casual 'hello'. Oh well, if he and Percy went through with their vague plan, he'd be needing to ply his father with alcohol sooner or later.
"Bill?" Fleur stood on the stairs. "Iz everyone gone?"
He turned, taking two steps at a time. "Yes." He caught her up in his arms. "Lets go to bed. I have a proposition for you."
---
Summary: Bill and Gabrielle throw a Christmas party. Arthur, Molly, Percy, Ron, Susan, Ginny, Draco, Tonks, Bishop, Remus, and Aubrey attend.
Gabrielle hurriedly swallowed the food she'd managed to swipe off the plate and walked into the living room, carrying the plate. "What? I am 'ere."
Fleur frowned. "Do not eat off of zee plates of food. Zey are for zee guests." The elder blonde raised an eyebrow. "I know you are dix-sept now, but do try and be an adult tonight, oui." She raised a hand as her younger sister opened her mouth. "And non, Bill does not tell me what 'appens during zee day. I know you, Gabrielle."
Bill walked into the living room from his study and nearly turned around again when he saw the ocular fire being thrown between the two sisters. Perhaps it would be best to grab Fabian and escape to the 'Sticks or something. Who knew a simple Christmas party could be so hazardous to one's health?
"Hey, hey. What's going on here?" He stepped between the two. "Guests will start to arrive soon and you know how hard it is to get bloodstains out of the carpet."
Gabrielle turned her back on her sister and walked over to set the plates on the table. She really just wanted to smash them and spend the rest of the night in her room, but resisted. She didn't want to act childishly.
"Nothing iz going on, Bill," she snapped, feeling very much picked on. She crouched down in front of Fabian's bouncer to tickle beneath his chin, delighting in the smile and belly laugh.
Bill shared a look with his wife. Gabrielle had been in a mood ever since she had come back from term and there was no getting her out of it. "Well, if nothing's wrong, perhaps you should wipe that scowl off your face." He walked over to her, dropping a kiss on her forehead. "You look lovely."
It took effort, an extreme amount of effort on her part, but she did as he asked and cleared her expression. "Merci," she said, smoothing down the front of her jumper.
"Come on," he offered her his hand as she stood. "Why don't you help me bring in some of the wine? Nothing says Weasley Christmas more than alcohol and pie."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"No fighting with Percy tonight, okay?" Susan pleaded as they walked toward Shell Cottage. She didn't mean to nag, really she didn't, but she just wanted the brothers to get along. It wasn't fair to the rest of their family for them to make the evening tense. "You'll be nice, right? For me?"
"Sure. I won't do anything. In fact, to be safe I probably won't talk to him." He shrugged. He wouldn't initiate anything, knowing them, they'd probably get into a fist fight. He reached out for Susan's hand as they came to the porch.
Susan smiled and squeezed his hand. He was trying, and that was all she could ask. Bobbing up on tiptoe, she dropped a kiss on Ron's cheek, murmuring, "Love you," as he knocked on the door.
Gabrielle threw the door open with a wide smile. "Bonjour, welcome!" The smile widened when she saw Ron. He was always fun. "'Allo, Ron. And you are Susan. Bill 'as told me about you."
"Hey, Gabby." He grinned down at her and stepped inside, Susan behind him. "How have you been?"
She stood up on tiptoe, even then she could barely reach, brushing a kiss on each of Ron's cheeks before turning to Susan and repeating the gesture. "I am very well, merci. 'Ow are you?"
"We've been fine," Susan replied, grinning at the friendly witch. "It's nice to meet you. The Weasley family tree has so many branches, I wonder if I'll ever know everyone on it. Happy Christmas, by the way."
"Oh, um, this is Gabrielle, Fleur's sister," Ron explained to Susan. He turned to Gabrielle and said, "Gabby, this is my girlfriend, Susan. So, who's all here already? And do we eat soon, I haven't had too much to eat today, I'm starving."
Elbowing Ron in the side, Susan shook her head. "You just had a triple-decker sandwich an hour ago. Don't be rude!" Smiling apologetically at Gabby, she sighed. "You'll have to excuse him. Ron is 90% bottomless pit and 10% ill manners."
Gabrielle laughed and poked Ron. "I remember 'is appetite. I was eleven when I first saw it, and it gave me nightmares for weeks after. But where are my manners, may I take your coats?"
"Geez," Ron said, rubbing his side. "Feeling the love in this room. I can't help if my metabolism is really high," he grumbled. He took his coat off and handed it to Gabrielle.
Susan gave her coat to Gabby with a murmured 'thank you'. As the young witch left them to hang their things in the closet, Susan slipped an arm around her boyfriend. "There's plenty of love in this room, and you know it. If there wasn't, I wouldn't bother keeping my icebox stocked for you and your fast metabolism, would I?"
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey felt the world become solid under her feet and as she untangled herself from Remus, she dared to look at her son, wrapped tightly in her arms. He looked no worse for wear after taking his first trip via side along Apparation. Thank Merlin.
"Are you sure its okay that I brought Dominic?" the blonde asked as fiddled a little with the little wool cap the infant wore.
"I'm positive," Remus smiled as Aubrey checked over Dominic. "Fleur would love to meet Dominic, as would Fabian. Just don't let the kids talk too much, they'll start plotting."
Remus was excited to go out to see Bill and Fleur. He'd seen them around, sure, but sometimes it was nice to actually spend some time with friends.
Aubrey rolled her eyes. "That's the last thing we need. Infants taking over the world." And I thought it was bad enough when mice were doing the plotting. As the pair walked up the short path towards the front door, she couldn't help but clutch her son just a bit tighter to her body. The one time she had met Bill and his wife, they were perfectly lovely, but she couldn't help but remember these were Remus' friends, and she was only here because he was.
She held her breath as Remus knocked.
Making sure his brother and his girlfriend were comfortable and knew where the food was, Bill went to open the door, a large smile gracing his face as he found Remus and Aubrey standing there. "Ooh, who do we have here?" He took a peek at the bundle in the woman's arms. "Excellent, another baby for Mum to spoil."
He moved out of the way to let the pair in.
Remus ushered Aubrey in before him, grasping his host's hand as he entered. "Bill, you remember Aubrey? This little one here is Dominic." He paused a moment, wondering whether he should have let Aubrey introduce her son.
He stepped forward as Aubrey met with Bill, to smile at Fleur. "Hello, Fleur, how are things?"
"Bonjour, mon ami." Fleur leaned over to kiss Remus on the cheek before turning towards Aubrey. "And zis must be Dominic, oui?" She grinned at the other woman. "'E iz just as pretty as 'is maman, zou not as pretty as my Fabian."
"My son is not pretty, thank you very much." Bill frowned slightly as he wrapped his arms around his wife's waist. "He's handsome."
Aubrey smiled, enjoying the playful bickering between husband and wife. "It's important that you think that, Bill." She pat his arm awkwardly as she tried to juggle Dominic and take her coat off at the same time.
"Bill!" Fleur mocked gasped. "You did not take zere coats!"
Bill rolled his eyes. "I was getting there, promise."
"I 'ave been putting zem in your study." Sniffing slightly, Fleur took Aubrey's hand. "Come, I will show you where to put zee baby stuff."
Trying not to grin, Remus looked sideways at Bill. What was the saying, women held parties and the men were just the hat stands? Christmas was invariably a mixture of fun and embarrassment. It looked to be a fun event, whichever way it went.
"So... how much fun was setting up?"
Bill grimaced slightly. He was still regretting suggesting the idea. "About as much fun as one of Snape's potion essays, I'm afraid." Bill shrugged and began to make his way over to his study. "Let me drop this stuff off," he held up the coats, "and I'll pour you a firewhiskey."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Percy had stood on the edge of the property, wondering whether or not he really wanted to go inside Shell Cottage.
At least it wasn't Christmas Day. The party surely wouldn't last the evening, and perhaps he and Ron would be able to get through at least this gathering without arguing. He pulled the bag of gift higher and sighed before pulling a cheerful look across his countenance. At least there would be brandy.
Gabrielle hummed a Christmas carol as she headed for the door, wondering who would be arriving next. She had bet with Bill that it was his parents, and she was only slightly disappointed (she was going to have to help with the dishes now) to see that it was one of his brothers. The one who had been dead.
"'Allo. You are ze one who was dead, no?" she asked, smiling expectantly.
Percy barely kept himself from rolling his eyes, and began in rusty French, "And you were the one at the bottom of the lake, sister? Merry Christmas."
She beamed at him when she heard the French. "Yes, zat was me. 'Appy Christmas to you as well, come in," she said that all in a rush as she moved to the side and closed the door behind him.
"Thank you, I will," Percy replied. "Though, I do hope you won't require much more French from me. I'm afraid my vocabulary is exhausted, save for things not repeatable in a lady's presence." He kissed both of her cheeks in greeting. "How do you find yourself this Christmas, Gabrielle?"
"I am very well, merci," she said, taking his hand. "I will show you can put your coat. 'Ow are you?"
"Well enough, thank you," he replied, following his sister-in-law through the house to the closet, where he hung his coat, and then to the main room.
"This is your last year at Beauxbatons, yes?"
"Yes, I am very excited. I will be working at Gringott's after zat."
"Ahh, with Bill. If you ever get tired of goblins, I can always use a lovely hand in the Archives."
She scowled. "Non, Bill 'as replaced me. I am working in ze research department now." She glanced sideways at him. "Although, I will keep your offer in mind." After all, if she wasn't working with Bill, he couldn't control every part of her day. And he couldn't report back to Fleur.
"Indeed. Could you show me to the refreshments, perhaps?" This was going to be a long night.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
"I didn't expect to be this busy for the hols," Tonks said around her muffler as she and Bishop made their way to Bill's and Fleur's. They actually weren't too far from their own home, and Tonks had suggested a brisk walk instead of Flooing.
It was a bit colder than she thought it was going to be, and was thankful that her husband didn't seem to mind her stealing his body heat.
Tucking Tonks more tightly against his side when he felt her shiver, Bishop smiled down at her. "We do seem to be very popular these days. I imagine it's your influence. I wasn't ever on the 'A' list before I started escorting you."
"Must be," she replied, teasing. "Do you think we'll need to get a social secretary?"
"It's quite possible, especially once the baby comes."
The house was coming up closer, and Tonks was thankful.
"Did you manage to grab the gift bag?"
Bishop stopped short, turning wide eyes to his wife. "I thought you were bringing it."
"Which is why I said, as we were leaving, 'could you grab the bag please,'" Tonks replied dryly. She shrugged, moving towards the house. "It'll be your owl that sends the gifts then, not mine. She was exhausted and sprained a wing last year. This year'll be worse."
As they reached Shell Cottage, Bishop knocked on the door. He was still getting to know the Weasley family, but it was a good sort newness. Their family was expanding in many different ways, and Bishop couldn't be more pleased about it. Pulling something from his pocket, he cast a resizing spell and winked at Tonks as the gift bag appeared in his hand. "Oh, I guess I did remember after all."
"Prat," she said, poking him in the chest with her elbow. "Now you get to listen to me sing."
"As if I'd get out of that by being good," he retorted, sharing a private smile with her before the door opened and their host came to greet them.
Slipping out of the kitchen where he had every intention of sneaking in a quick snog as his guests entertained themselves, Bill rushed towards the door in his socks, nearly slipping on the freshly polished wood floor. He jerked the door open and stood to the side, welcoming Tonks and her husband in. "Welcome, welcome." He grinned widely, running a hand through his hair. "Ron and Remus and their dates are already here."
"Oh, good. We didn't want to be the first ones to arrive, even if we do live the closest," Tonks said, giving Bill a hug, and moving over to let Bishop in as well.
Extending his hand as he stepped across the threshold, Bishop grinned broadly. "Bill, good to see you again. Thanks for including us."
"You as well." Bill shook the other man's hand, raising an eyebrow at the last comment. "As if I had a choice. Tonks is a Weasley. Adopted, but one none the less. So I'll skip the if-you-hurt-her-speech I should have made at the wedding, take your coats, and show you where the firewhiskey is."
"A man after my own heart!" Bishop exclaimed, clapping a hand on Bill's shoulder. He had a feeling he'd enjoy the connection to the Weasley family, now that he'd been properly threatened by most of its members.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Arthur sat back and smiled. For a change, he was feeling run down, and he had claimed a chair in the lounge that was out of the way enough that he could have a little peace, but central enough that everyone could find him.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill grinned as he spotted his mum across the room; she must have snuck in behind his back. Glad she was not in the kitchen, Fleur was nervous enough as it was, he skirted around the sofa, picking Fabian up from his swing as he went. Although he knew his mother would be happy to see him, she would want to see her grandson more. He knew how the pecking order went. Babies came first.
"Mum," he leaned down to kiss her cheek. "Happy Christmas."
Molly grinned up at her son before reflexively reaching out for her grandbaby. "Happy Christmas, Bill. Fabian," she cooed, holding him up in the air a bit above her before tucking the child against her chest. She darted forward and kissed Bill on the cheek once before she turned her attention to Fabian. "Are you having a good first Christmas, Fabian? I bet you are!"
"I think he's a bit bewildered, to be honest," Bill confessed. "I'm expecting him to thoroughly enjoy the wrapping paper and boxes more than the toys Christmas morning, but that doesn't stop Fleur from shopping compulsively for him." He leaned down and kissed her again. "How have you been? Enjoying your winter break?"
"Oh, dear, that's how all mother's work. Our brains think 'well, they're grow into it!' and we have no choice." Looking up at Bill as she bounced up and down a bit with Fabian in her arms, Molly smiled. "It's so nice, you inviting everyone over here. It's a nice change, not having to clean or cook for the holidays."
"Well, I'm glad you're enjoying it. I was beginning to think I made a mistake suggesting the party. I mean, Gabrielle's birthday was yesterday, so not only was Fleur stressed over this, she had to worry about last night's dinner and cake as well." He shook his head. "At least I sent her out to the new spa with her sister to relax."
"You're a very good man, Bill Weasley." Molly looked back down at Fabian, who looked like the day was already beginning to tire him. "Have you and Fleur discussed giving this little one a brother or sister?" She looked up at her eldest son with an innocent smile.
"Mum." Bill rolled his eyes. "Fabian's not even six months old. I don't know if Fleur could handle two toddlers. Hell, I don't even think I could."
"I did. Many times over. I promise, it's not as hard as you think," she said, fudging the truth a little. It had been very hard, but also very worth it.
Bill snorted. "Mum, remember these are Weasleys we are talking about. When have we ever been easy?" He grinned at her. "I wouldn't be opposed to it, of course, but Fleur wants to go back to work and I don't know if we can afford two children on my salary."
"You'd be amazed what you can afford when you need to." Molly looked down at Fabian. She and Arthur had stretched everything to give their children everything they could, and she didn't regret a second of it. She was happy, and her children were happy. She couldn't have asked for more.
"Alright, alright." Bill slung an arm around his mother's shoulders. "You don't have to twist my arm into doing it. Just sweet talk Fleur into it."
"And what iz your maman trying sweet talk me into?" Fleur came up from behind her husband, wrapping her arms around his waist. "'Ello, Molly. 'Ow are you?"
"I'm good, dear. Very good," Molly said, smiling at her daughter-in-law. "Thank you so much for having us all over. I know how much of an undertaking it can be. There's so many of us now... and with Devon and Corie arriving, our family just keeps growing!"
"It iz no problem." Fleur shook her head. "I like zee large family. Even zee adopted ones." She nodded towards where Tonks and Bishop stood before turning to where Remus and Aubrey were cuddled up on the couch. "Zee Delacours are small, but it iz nice to get zee best of both worlds, non?"
Bill grinned, turning so he could wrap his arms around his wife. "Wait until you see the cake I ordered from the Bakery in Hogsmeade. I asked for one large enough to feed a house full of Weasleys."
"Are you sure they make one that big?" Molly grinned.
"If not, it might be fun to see Ron wrestle whoever for the last piece." Bill knew he shouldn't tease his siblings when they weren't around to defend themselves, but if he waited until they were, there was a greater chance that he would get hexed.
"You are not being very nice." Fleur poked her husband in the side.
He shrugged. "I never claimed I was."
Molly grinned at her son and daughter, looking back to her grandchild. Yes, she was very happy.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
They'd talked to her Mum and Dad, and eaten their fill of the food. Ginny was pleasantly full, sitting on the couch as she watched the majority of her family mill around. Their laughter was enveloping the house. She had watched her mother carefully when they'd arrived. She looked... relieved... that she hadn't had to cook for everyone.
She also looked tired.
Ginny turned to smile at Draco. "I shouldn't have eaten that much. You're going to have to carry me home."
"You did eat a lot," Draco joked, slumped next to her. "I'm not sure if I can."
He started laughing when she slapped at his arm.
"It's too bad Penny and Jack are sick. I would have liked to see Jack."
"If they have what's been going around, then no, you really wouldn't want to see him. There's green stuff coming out of several orifices..." She grinned widely when he groaned, clutching at him stomach. "Too soon?"
Draco started laughing again, hand still on his belly. "I did not need to know it was green. I still love you though."
He picked up her hand, threading his finger through hers as he brought the back of it to his lips.
Ginny grinned. "Good. So when I come home covered in it, you won't chuck me out into the tree house?"
"Have you been in the treehouse? It's actually rather nice."
She snorted. "Somehow that doesn't make the idea of not sleeping beside you better. I don't think the interior decorating would make that better."
"Um... who said anything about you sleeping alone? Ever again? There's not a bed in there though... just a hammock."
"Oh, even better," Ginny said, rolling her eyes as she leaned over and snagged her sparking apple juice from the table side the sofa they were sitting on. "I'm sure they'll be nights when one of us will be out there. Or maybe I'll just go to Harry and Luna's," she said, smirking as she took a sip of her drink.
"You will do no such thing," Draco growled.
He snuggled closer to her, kissing the side of her neck.
"You're mine, and I take care of what's mine. You can visit Luna but staying with Potter is out of the question."
Ginny laughed, her eyes closing at the feel of his lips on her neck. "That might be a bit harder than you think, Draco."
"Why is that? Look, I'm not saying you can't see Potter. I know he's your friend. I would never tell you who to be friends with. You just aren't staying the night where he is. That's all I ask."
"You can't ask me that," Ginny said carefully, turning to look at him. "That'd be like me asking you not to stay at Blaise's."
"Blaise is my best mate, and I've never dated him. You've... Potter... he's... you know."
"One of my best and oldest friends? Someone who I've known for years? Someone who saved my life once upon a time and who I am very loyal to? Yes. He is all that."
Ginny sighed. She knew Draco would never understand her relationship with Harry, and she wasn't asking him to. However, she would not cut the man from her life. He was too important to her.
"You're fine with me staying at Dean's, who I've also dated."
"Because I know the little bit is possessive. Also, I trust Thomas. We nearly died together. Besides, yes I am fine with your staying at Thomas' - not in his bed though. And no more in his pants."
"You trust Dean, but not me?" Ginny looked very seriously at Draco. "I trust Harry. I'm not asking you to trust him. I'm asking you to trust me."
"I trust you, but I don't like him. The thought of you with him makes this knot in my belly. What if you... you're mine. I don't want him to have you."
Ginny shook her head, putting her drink back on the table before turning to him. She wanted to tell him that there was no chance of anything happening between herself and Harry. Firstly because they were very happy where they were. Second, because they had walked that road. It wasn't meant to be. It just wasn't meant.
"Harry is my friend. I love him, just like you love Blaise. Just as you love Pansy. He is a large part of my life, and he always will be. That will never change, Draco. I don't know what I have to say to make you believe me, but I am very happy right where I am, with you. I don't need anyone else the way I need you. If I have to repeat it every day, for the rest of my days, to make you believe it, I will."
"I just don't want you staying the night with him," Draco groused.
"I'll make you a deal. I will only stay the night at Luna's house, does that make you happy?"
Draco glared. "You're trying to trick me somehow. I know you now. What? Does Potter live there now?"
Ginny grinned. She wouldn't say anything. She wouldn't do that to Harry. Her grin widened when her mother began frantically waving them over. "Ooh, Mum needs me." She shot off the sofa and across the room.
"Brave Gryffindor, my arse," Draco muttered, then added loudly. "Don't think this conversation is over because I caught you trying to trick me, and don't think you can make me forget with sex either."
Molly looked at Draco over Ginny's shoulder, shock on her face.
Draco just smiled widely, showing lots of teeth. If her family didn't know they shagged like rabbits then there was a bit of a problem.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey gave a little sigh as Dominic began to fuss. The infant was getting hungry. Flashing a small smile at Remus she rose and made her way towards Fabian's nursery, where Fleur had encouraged her to utilize. Settling into the rocking chair, the woman shifted until her son latched on.
Smiling slightly, Aubrey pushed back slightly, letting the chair lull her into a light doze. She liked Remus' friends. She found the Weasleys warm and welcoming, if not a little overwhelming. Nymphadora Tonks Rascaile was also invited, which made things a bit awkward. Of course, Aubrey had gone to the other woman's wedding, but she hadn't actually approached the Auror. She had no real reason to want to avoid the other woman, but she thought things might be awkward.
Shaking her head, Aubrey switched Dominic to the other side, still rocking slightly. If Mrs. Rascaile wanted to talk, she would listen.
Bill hurried into his son's nursery, said infant in his arms. Apparently tonight was the wrong time to introduce Fabian to semi-solid food. That, coupled with the continuous round of 'pass the baby' upset the poor child's stomach. Needlessly to say, his son needed a change of clothes.
Fabian was down to his nappy when Bill realized someone else was in the room. Spinning around, he quickly averted his eyes when he realized Aubrey was breast feeding. "Oh! Sorry." The tips of his ears burned hot.
A light blush staining her cheeks, Aubrey tried to laugh it off. "Don't worry about it." Looking to see if her son was done, she began to straighten her shirt before standing. "I was bound to flash someone, sometime."
"But-but my wife." Bill kept his attention on his son as he finished dressing the infant.
"Who you love very much." Aubrey laid her hand on his shoulder. "And I'm quite partial to Remus, myself."
Bill picked Fabian up. "Tell you what, how about we never mention this again?"
"I can do that," Aubrey agreed, moving out of the man's way.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Tonks had left Bishop with Bill; they were discussing something that made her eyes cross.
She thought she recognized the blonde off in the corner, and made her way over.
"I think you were at my wedding," Tonks began warmly. "Tonks Rascaile."
Aubrey gave a small smile. "Aubrey van Andel. And I was at your wedding. It was lovely." She looked over her shoulder to see Remus cradling a sleeping Dominic.
"Thank you, Aubrey." Tonks' brows furrowed slightly. "Are you Remus' Aubrey?" She looked a little young.
"Er, yes." The blonde winced as her voice squeaked slightly. Truth be told, the other woman intimidated her a little. Tonks was an Auror and Aubrey? Well, Aubrey was playing at being a librarian. "You went out with him...before?"
Tonks repressed a snort. It was obvious her presence made the younger woman nervous. "We were lovers for quite a while, yes."
Aubrey tried not to frown. Yes, the other woman and Remus had been lovers, but they certainly weren't now. Aubrey wasn't blind, she saw how Tonks looked at her new husband, and there was no way she could even consider that Remus could cheat on her. He was too...Remus. "How was your honeymoon?"
Tonks' smiled, "Just long enough. We went to Morocco. The food was fantastic, especially the dessert." Hit Wizard every night.
"Are you enjoying new motherhood?"
Aubrey nodded. "Often times I'm exhausted by the time I fall into bed, but I can't imagine it any other way." She glanced over at Remus again, a soft smile gracing her face as she watched the man hold her child. "I'm ridiculously lucky."
Tonks eyes followed Aubrey's, and she saw Remus holding whom she assumed was Aubrey's son. A pang went through her at the sight. It wasn't that she was jealous, per se, but she coudn't help the slight rush of emotion. Her hand went to her own abdomen, just beginning to show the signs of life itself.
"Remus has always been good with children," Tonks said fondly. She bit her tongue to keep from saying something untoward. "What is it that you do when you aren't mothering, Aubrey?"
"When we go back into term, I'll be back as the librarian at Sara Prep." Aubrey crossed her arms over her chest, suddenly feeling a bit on the defensive. Which was ridiculous, because what did she have to be defensive about? She had a job she enjoyed and a man she adored whom adored her and her son right back.
"My cousin Draco works with Sara Prep," Tonks replied casually, shifting her weight to her heels. "Have you met Percy yet? He's Head of Archives- I'm sure you'd have much in common concerning organization."
Aubrey shook her head. "You know that saying about too many cooks in the kitchen? I've already locked horns with Hermione Granger. I doubt I could handle another one of my fellow obsessive compulsives." She smiled slightly, to show that her words held no sting, lest the other woman think she meant to offend.
Tonks chuckled, "With Percy, it's more of a stick. A large one, firmly lodged right up his arse."
"Stick up his arse I might be able to handle," Aubrey mused. "Though I don't know how much use I'll get out the Ministry Archives, but you never know."
Tonks nodded politely, racking her brains for something else to say. She tugged on the end of her hair.
"Well, it was nice to talk to you." Aubrey gave a polite smile, sensing that the conversation was coming to an end. "Perhaps we'll see one another at another Weasley function?"
"I'm sure we will. If I don't get a chance, please give Remus my love," Tonks replied, relieved, before smiling again and turning to find her husband.
Aubrey nodded and breathed a sigh of relief as the other woman moved away. That didn't go too badly.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Susan had wandered off to speak with his mother, so Percy took the opportunity to speak to Ron.
He wasn't surprised to see him hovering by the food.
"Do you have a moment, Ron?" Percy asked, trying to keep his voice pleasant and neutral.
"About what," Ron asked as he turned to see Percy. He had figured Percy would come up to talk to him at some point, but he thought it would have been after the article came out.
It wasn't my fault. It was Lavender's fault. She fooled me.
Percy opened his mouth to speak, but closed it, instead gesturing that they move into the kitchen instead of standing where they would be most likely interrupted.
He waited until he was leaning against one of the counters before starting.
"I was hoping that by asking the family to keep it to themselves where I had been and the details of such that you would realize it meant all of the family, and not include ex-birds from Hogwarts, Ronald."
"I-" Ron groaned in frustration. He should have known this was what it would be about. It wasn't like Percy had anything else to talk to him about. "How do you know about that?"
"Ha! So you did talk to Lavender Brown!" Percy said triumphantly before narrowing his eyes at his youngest brother. "That's beside the point, however. Why in the name of Merlin did you open your mouth? Do you really dislike me so much that you'd like the whole of the Wizarding world to know I'm alive so they can start hunting me again?"
"No! That isn't what-" Ron huffed, glaring at his brother. "Look, I... you... not that I have to explain myself to you, but it wasn't like that."
"You damn well better explain yourself, little brother. I asked you to keep something to yourself, you didn't. I want to know why. What was it like? She show a little cleavage and you spilled your guts? What about Susan?"
"What about... how dare you? I would never do that to Susan!" Ron stepped closer to Percy, thrusting his finger into his chest, "Watch yourself, Percy. No matter what happened, that's a bit far."
Percy wrapped his hand around the finger being poked into his chest, and pushed it slowly away.
"But you would to your brother," he said between gritted teeth. Ron was larger than Percy, and stronger, but that wasn't much on his mind at the moment. "What happened, then, Ronald?"
"It wasn't like that. Lavender owled me about writing a article, and I figured it was about Quidditch. Do you really think I hate you so much that I would give a tell all interview about you? Same old Percy, thinking everything's about you. What, did you think I sought her out to get back at you for all those years?"
"No, Ron, I knew she would seek you out because she came to me first. Do you really think all I think about is myself?" He shook his head derisively. "If I did, you'd be dead, you idiot. Keep your mouth shut."
He turned on his heel towards the door. "Happy Christmas, Ron."
Ron slammed his hand down on the counter in frustration, groaning. He wasn't going to chase after Percy. If he wasn't going to stay and listen how it really happened, then he could believe whatever he wanted. Ron was still too angry at him for the last six years to care what he thought.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Moving away from Remus, Aubrey found Molly sitting in the corner of the dining room, sitting and watching everyone. "Molly, hello." The younger woman settled down next to the Weasley matriarch. "How are you?"
Smiling, Molly turned her attention from her family and the room at large to the blond beside her. "Aubrey! I'm well, thank you. How are you? How is Dominic?"
"Loud and fussy," Aubrey grinned. "But I wouldn't have it any other way. At least now he lets me sleep through the night. But to be perfectly honest, I had a few ulterior motives when I came over to speak with you."
"Oh?" Molly rose an eyebrow.
"I'm having trouble thinking of a gift for Remus and I was wondering if you had any ideas? Also for your daughter, if it's not too much trouble. I wanted to get her something to thank her for delivering Dominic." Aubrey wrung her hands. "But mainly for Remus. Everything I think of is either too personal or not personal enough."
"Hmm," Molly said, sitting forward. She'd been knitting for the better part of six months. The sweaters made it easier on her, knowing exactly what she'd be getting everyone. "Well, Remus is quite fond of books. You could perhaps find out his favorite author and get a first edition. As for Gin, I'm not quite sure. She's a very practical person. She never had much use in jewelry or the like. Maybe something for her office at the clinic?"
"I like that idea for Ginny,," Aubrey said, an idea already forming in her mind. "But as for Remus, I love him dearly, but I know he hates the fact he can't afford certain items. I wouldn't want to shove wealth in his face." She sighed. "I see the way he looks at Dominic and I know it shouldn't be this hard. Perhaps I'm over thinking it."
Molly reached over and patted Aubrey's knee. "Remus is a proud man, and he'd be more than happy just to have you there on Christmas morning. He doesn't need presents to make him happy."
"Of course he doesn't need presents, but I happen to like giving them." She eyed Molly, speculatively. "Which not-so-gracefully leads to my next question. Over my maternity leave I took up knitting, though I'm not very good at it. I've seen you knitting a handful of times at the school. I was wondering if we could get together some time and you could show me what I'm doing wrong?"
Aubrey sat there, holding her breath. It was one thing to ask about gift ideas, it was another thing all together to ask about knitting lessons. She and Molly were acquaintances, not yet friends. As it was, Aubrey had help asking her friends for help.
Molly's eyes widened excitedly. "I would love that! I started to teach Tonks when she was on bed rest, and it was quite enjoyable. What have you been able to make so far?" She knew her hands weren't working as quickly as they used to, but she was looking forward to showing someone what she knew.
"Scarves." Aubrey's tone matched Molly's. She loved learning new things. "Mostly things that are flat and vaguely rectangular shaped. I know how to knit and purl, but I see those adorable little baby clothes and my fingers just itch."
"Oh, I'm old hat at making baby clothes. I can show you everything, really. We keep what the kids grow out of, as long as it's not torn up beyond belief." The fact that the clothes had been passed from Weasley to Weasley made this happen more often than not, but Molly had quite a few crates of old clothes in the attic. "You can see what you like and we can start there."
"Fantastic," Aubrey smiled at the older woman. "Perhaps sometimes after the holidays then? And I believe you just gave me an idea for Remus' gift."
Molly smiled widely. "Then I'm glad. After the holidays sounds good. With all the knitting and final things to do for presents, and the baking... I think I might be a bit lag until the fifth or sixth."
"And then we're back to school. I've missed the library." Aubrey sighed. "I went back in the afternoons a handful of times before break started, but it wasn't the same. Thankfully I've found a babysitter for Dominic three days a week so no one will get disturbed."
"So you're coming back? That's wonderful, dear. I'm sure the children will be happy."
"I was wondering if the children remembered me. I was only there a week before going into premature labor." Aubrey shrugged. "But I made a commitment and I don't intend to back out on it now. Besides, it gives me an excuse to see Remus."
"Which is always a good excuse," Molly said with a smile. "I'm sure the children remember you. You'd be surprised how much they notice."
"Oh, children notice more than they should." Aubrey grinned. "I'm fully expecting Dominic to be quite nosey and get into things he shouldn't. But that's what little boys do. Tell me, was your oldest, Bill, like that?"
"All my children were like that," Molly said with a laugh. "Precocious, inquisitive, questioning. It runs in our veins, I think."
"Well, from what I've seen of you sons, I can only hope that mine grows up to be half the man yours seem to be." Aubrey sniffed a little. "Remus is very lucky to have your family as friends and I know it's probably not my place to say it, but thank you."
Molly grinned, squeezing Aubrey's hand between both of hers. "Thank you, Aubrey, but it's really us who are lucky to have him."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill poured two brandies, one for himself and another for his brother. Spotting Percy on the other side of the room, he weaved between the furniture and the small groups of people. "So what was that about?" He shoved the second brandy into his brother's hand as he sipped his own.
"Our youngest brother not being able to keep his mouth shut. Thanks, Bill," Percy replied, taking a sip of the brandy, and sighing.
"I don't think Ron and I are close to getting along. I get along better with Fred than I do Ron at the moment."
Bill nodded, his eyes searching out his youngest brother. There would be words later, but now he had to smooth out some feathers and get some inspiration about Christmas gifts. "Git." He said simply.
"Poncy git. But it's Christmas, and I wouldn't want to upset Mother," Percy agreed. "Lovely party, though. I do believe Mother is very happy that she didn't have to cook this year. We may have to start doing holiday rotations."
Bill shook his head. "Before tonight I regretted coming up with the idea. Gabrielle's seventeenth birthday was last night." He eyed his brother. "Speaking of Gabby, I heard you might have offered her a job."
"I'm offering most people employment in the department if I think I can trust them. She may not always want to be under the eye of her older, protective brother, yes? It couldn't hurt to polish my French, as well." The conversation with Bill, along with the superb brandy, was doing wonders to calm Percy down.
Bill grinned. "She's still a bit pissed at me for transferring her over into research, but you can have her as soon as she leaves school. So," he swirled what was left of the brandy in his glass.
"So I've been doing my Christmas shopping. Any ideas for Jack and Penelope? I fully intended to pick Penelope's brain tonight, but then she got sick." He made sure to note how much his brother enjoyed the alcohol.
"I got Penny a gift certificate to that new spa," Percy started. He was disappointed as well that they were ill. He hadn't told them that he was going to be out of the country until after the new year. "As for Jackson, I got him a book on frogs. You know, one of the ones that has the layers and the interactive parts. I think he'll like it. They both love books, so you can't go wrong there. A voucher for an outing or babysitting? I'm sure neither would be remiss."
"Babysitting," Bill mused. "That just gave me an idea. Ron and Susan gave me a night of free babysitting for my birthday. Perhaps Ronnikins would enjoy a night with an infant. But I'll keep the idea about books in mind."
Percy grinned, "Oh, did he? Or was it Susan who suggested it? Regardless, do you think Dad would tell us the spell for his posters so we can watch?"
The elder Weasley snorted. "Susan volunteered on Ron's behalf. But Dad might tell us if we liquor him up enough. And if Mum was out of earshot."
"Most excellent. We should do that, then. Invite Charlie and Fred along. Fred could even bring his boys, make a night out of it." Far be it for anyone to think that mild mannered Percy wasn't a Weasley after all. He had his fair share of revenge and pranks, too.
Snickering, Bill raised his empty glass in a toast. "Fleur might not appreciate the use of our free night out, but as long as you showed me the pensive memory, I'd go for it."
"But of course. What kind of brother would I be if I didn't," Percy tipped his glass in acknowledgment. "Just don't tell Mother, or Ginny for that matter."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Moving away from Percy, Bill cut himself two pieces from the cake Fleur had ordered from the bakery in Hogsmeade and walked over towards his youngest brother.
Of all his brothers, Ron was probably the most volatile. He would have to go about this carefully. "Christmas is soon. Finished shopping yet?"
Ron snorted, still a bit annoyed from the Percy exchange earlier. "What do you think," he said a bit roughly. He looked down at the cake in Bill's hand and said, "that for me?"
"Of course." Bill rolled his eyes and handed the extra plate over. Sometimes his brother was too easy. "As for the Christmas shopping, I was just checking to see if I wasn't too far behind."
The pair fell into a silence as they ate their cake. "I was thinking about getting Susan something. Any ideas?"
Ron chewed for a moment, thinking. He hadn't even gotten her something yet. "I don't know. When in doubt I usually go for gift certificates. That way, I don't get hexed. Usually what I do for Gin."
Bill nodded to himself. "I still have to get something for Jack. Percy suggested books, but that seems too easy." He shrugged. "You have it easy I guess. Jack likes Quidditch, yeah?"
"I think I might get him something Quidditch related, yeah. A broom perhaps. One for his age, of course. I'll probably have to get padding too, knowing Penny... and Susan, for that matter." The corner of his mouth turned up a bit at the thought of the scolding he'd get about the broom.
The elder Weasley returned the grin. "Probably," Bill agreed. "Tell you what, I'll get some of the pads and you can get the broom. You can be the cool uncle and I can be liked by Penelope and Percy."
Ron chuckled, "Yeah sure. I don't think all the pads in the world are going to fix what's going on between me and Perce, so why bother?" He grabbed his drink and took a sip after he finished the last bite of his cake.
"What happened?" Bill feigned ignorance.
Ron shook his head, "I don't really want to talk about it." He took another sip of his drink and continued, "stupid misunderstandings about interviews with Lavender sodding Brown."
"The reporter from the Prophet?" Bill shook his head. "You should've known better, but what's done is done." He shrugged. "Sure you don't to get the pads instead of the broom? It'd make Mum happier if you and Perce weren't at one another's throats."
"Piss off Bill. I thought she was interviewing me about Quidditch. Only later, after I don't know, twelve drinks or so, does she even start to ask me about Perce. And then she tells me that she already talked to Gin about it. What the bloody hell was I supposed to think?"
"Well I didn't know that." Bill tried to calm his brother. All he needed was Fleur accusing him of ruining the party. Or his mum yelling. "And I don't know what to tell you. She got you drunk and lied to you. And you had a reasonable excuse for meeting with her." He paused, considering. "Did you tell Percy this? Without yelling?"
"I tried to," Ron practically shouted, flustered. "He wouldn't listen. Kept accusing me of stepping out on Susan. Pillock." His face flushed an angry red as he surveyed the rest of the room, noticing quite a few people staring back at him.
"And the Weasley temper strikes again." Bill looked down at his empty glass. He couldn't exactly remember how much he'd had. "Still, try and make nice? I only suggest this to make my life easier. If you two go at it, Fleur's going to want me to break it up and I don't feel like getting punched again."
"Pfft. I'll try and make nice when he stops trying to make nice with my girlfriend." Ron scowled, not caring that it had been weeks since the incident he was referring to.
Bill raised an eyebrow. "Do you really think Percy would do that? Mum and Gin like Susan for you. He's not going to try and take your girlfriend from you, lest he piss them off. Remember, he's kinda scared of them."
Ron nodded, still a bit skeptical. "Right, whatever."
Bill sighed. There was nothing else he could do; Ron didn't seem to want to listen. "Let me go get you something to drink."
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Aubrey shrugged on her coat, fastening it tight before taking Dominic back from Fleur. "Thank you so much for having us. I had a lovely time."
The French woman leaned over and kissed Aubrey's cheek. "I am glad. You and I, we must get together, oui?"
Aubrey nodded. "That would be lovely. Tell me, does your sister babysit?"
Fleur gave a gallic shrug. "You would 'ave to ask 'er." She turned around, waving her younger sister closer. "Gabrielle, Aubrey 'as a question for you."
Gabrielle had started to doze off, eyes beginning to drift closed when Fleur called her over. She bounded over with a sleepy smile. "Oui?"
Aubrey smiled at the younger woman. "I saw how you were with your nephew. I was wondering if you would like to babysit once or twice before school starts again? Earn a little bit of money?"
"Oui, I would like zat very much." She nodded, glancing at Fleur for approval and beaming at Aubrey.
"Excellent." She put Dominic's hat on. "I'll owl you."
Gabrielle nodded and walked back to flop down on the couch. Within minutes the exchange was forgotten and she was fast asleep.
*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Bill yawned as the last guest left. Arguments between Percy and Ron aside, everything went well. He only regretted that He hadn't gotten to speak to his father beyond the quick and casual 'hello'. Oh well, if he and Percy went through with their vague plan, he'd be needing to ply his father with alcohol sooner or later.
"Bill?" Fleur stood on the stairs. "Iz everyone gone?"
He turned, taking two steps at a time. "Yes." He caught her up in his arms. "Lets go to bed. I have a proposition for you."
---
Summary: Bill and Gabrielle throw a Christmas party. Arthur, Molly, Percy, Ron, Susan, Ginny, Draco, Tonks, Bishop, Remus, and Aubrey attend.