Buy Me a Rose by Aquarius21
Summary: A series of Ficlets involving everything from birth to marriage, even lunches with the in-laws
Categories: Works in Progress Characters: None
Compliant with: None
Era: None
Genres: Romance
Warnings: None
Challenges:
Series: None
Chapters: 8 Completed: No Word count: 12087 Read: 21788 Published: Mar 21, 2005 Updated: Jan 16, 2007

1. Buy Me a Rose by Aquarius21

2. The Wedding by Aquarius21

3. Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman by Aquarius21

4. Trials and Tribulations by Aquarius21

5. Draco goes to Azkaban by Aquarius21

6. Anything but Pink by Aquarius21

7. A Baby and a Pygmy Puff by Aquarius21

8. Baby Steps by Aquarius21

Buy Me a Rose by Aquarius21
A/N: I got inspired to write this while listening to Luther Vandross’ ‘Buy Me a Rose’
None of this is mine, just the plot. The song is by Mr. Vandross, and the Characters, Mrs. J. K. Rowling.




He works hard to give her all he thinks she wants
But it tears her apart ‘cause nothing’s for her heart
He pulls in late to wake her up with a kiss goodnight
If he could only read her mind, she’d say…

Buy me a rose, call me from work
Open a door for me, what would it hurt
Show me you love me by the look in your eyes
These are the little things I need the most in my life



Ginny Weasley Malfoy stood on the balcony of the two story home she shared with her husband. It over looked the ocean, it was totally peaceful. She was just listening to the waves breaking and smelling the salty sea air. It was beautiful… but this evening she wasn’t in the mood for beautiful, she wanted to at least talk to her husband. In the two years they had been married, he had never worked this much. Their first year together was simply perfect, but then slowly started growing apart. They were still in love, but they never cuddled, or talked or did anything, he was up and out before she woke up and didn’t come back until she was in bed and asleep. It drove her insane; he saw more of his boss than he saw his wife!

Now the days have grown to years of feelin’ all alone
As she sits and wonders if all she’s doin’ is wrong
‘Cause lately she’d try anything just to turn his head
Would it make a difference if she said, if she said…

Buy me a rose, call me from work
Open a door for me, what would it hurt
Show me you love me by the look in your eyes
These are the little things I need the most in my life


A whole year had past. They were still growing apart, and it was still driving her mad. She wanted to say something, but it would cause an argument between them, causing a deeper rift in their relationship.
She had been watching him sleep for a while now, taking the sight of him in slowly, his chest rising and falling with each breath he took, his hair falling in his eyes. She focused on his face and noticed that his forehead showed stress, she couldn’t add more to it, no, it would be wrong. It wouldn’t be fair. Though, she wished she still had the man she was with before they were married; the man who never stressed out over work and always spent time with her. She still loved him. It hurt her to see him working so much and so hard.


And the more that he lives the less that he tries
To show her the love that he holds inside
And the more that she gives the more that he sees
This is the story of you…and me


It was the day of their 4th wedding anniversary; she glanced to the note in her hand which read:

‘Ginny

Just the two of us tonight nothing will stand in the way of this. Dress comfortably, I’m going to do something a little different this anniversary. I hope you like it . Meet me in the den at 6:30.

Love forever,
Draco’

She kept reading it over and over, wondering what he was going to do. Obviously it wasn’t going to be extravagant as the years before, she didn’t mind. In previous years, they had gone to some restaurant filled with noisy people, it wasn’t that she wasn’t grateful for it, she was, she and Draco just never had an anniversary to themselves. But this year was going to be different, she knew it.

At 6’o clock, she took a shower and dressed in a pair of pajama pants and one of Draco's t- shirts and went downstairs to the den. When she got there, she started up the fire and sat in front of the couch, simply staring into it, losing track of her thoughts She did not notice Draco coming up behind her. But she did notice when he kissed her cheek. She smiled and kissed him softly on his mouth before he pulled back, and shook his head.

“Not quite now, love” he said smirking; he had a plan up his sleeve.

She watched him wondering what he had planned. He made a motion for her to scooch up and she did; he slid in the space behind her. His legs going on either side of her. She smiled slightly at him. He then took out of the bag, a styrofoam box. She glanced to him but he smiled and simply opened it revealing an Italian dinner, he sat that down and put napkins over each of their laps, and then set the box down. They slowly began to feed each other and stole kisses in between bites.

So I bought you a rose on the way home from work
To open the door to a heart that I hurt
And I hope you notice this look in my eyes
‘Cause I’m gonna make things right for the rest of your life
And I’m gonna hold you tonight, tonight
Do all those little things for the rest of your life

After their dinner, he took a rose from the bag, and handed it to her, kissing her lightly. She smiled, he then brought forth a little bear that said ‘I love you’ on the pillow it was holding. She smiled again, watching him still. He leaned back against the couch, pulling her to him, holding her, staring into the fire with her. He pointed his wand at their stereo and music started playing softly in the background. She smiled, leaned back, and whispered in his ear softly, “You’re going to be a father.”

They spent the rest of the evening in each other’s arms, and wrapped up in the one they loved.


*~*~*~*~*
Author’s note: Well? Did ya’ll like it? I was simply talking to a friend listening to this song when it wandered into my mind. I couldn’t refuse, it was sappy I know, but you have to admit some of you went ‘Awww…’ at least I hope you did. Please review!
I know the ending seemed a little weird, but they weren’t so distant they couldn’t keep up with a little recreation!

Aqua


Credit beta by diggingupophelia
The Wedding by Aquarius21
A/N: Still don’t own anything. Just the plot. If I ever own anything more, you all will be the first to know. Feel loved. Have a cookie

The Wedding

Draco Malfoy was lying rather haphazardly on the couch in his study. Half of his body was on the couch and the other half was hanging limply off the couch. He was feeling lazy and didn’t bother moving unless it was absolutely necessary. Since his wife wasn’t going to be home for the day, he decided that being lazy once in a while wasn’t so bad. He was reminiscing about the day of his wedding to Ginny…

*4 years earlier*


A 20- year- old Draco Malfoy stood anxiously in the ‘Usher’s room’ with his groomsmen. His mother was very emotional and fussing with his tie. She was making it either too loose or too tight. Yes, Draco Malfoy was getting married in Muggle attire. Everything else was magical, except the clothes. That had been Ginny’s only real request with regard to the wedding plans. Of course, neither Ginny nor Draco had much input, both of their mothers had taken over planning the wedding. All either of them got to add was occasional ‘yes’ or ‘no’.

As he was standing there, listening to his mother prattle on about how her little boy was ‘so grown up’ and looking handsome in his ‘little tux’, he was daydreaming about what Ginny would look like. That led to him to wondering if he was going to trip and if this was the right thing for him to do now. Financially, emotionally, and physically, they were prepared to be married. Mentally however, they were both having their doubts, not wondering if they loved each other, but if they could stand living with each other 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Both had horrible tempers, and when they were angry, hexes were thrown, doors were slammed, dishes were broken. And this was while they were dating! Of course they never threw harmful curses at each other. However, Ginny was once so angry with Draco, she nearly cursed his bits off, and that was over something stupid! What would happen over something serious? That was the main worry. Would they survive each other?

Soon enough his mother was heading out to the chapel to take her seat, friends and family of Draco were on the right, and Ginny’s many relatives and friends were on the left. The guests were talking amongst themselves. Ron was throwing heated looks to the Slytherins on the opposite side, and they were more than willing to throw heated looks back.

Draco took a deep breath and followed the Reverend out of the room, deeply breathing to get calm. And shut his eyes and opened them when he reached the altar. He glanced down the aisle and saw his groomsmen coming down the aisle with a bridesmaid on an arm. When they reached the end of the aisle the men sent the women off to the bride’s side of the altar, and moved to stand behind Draco. After three groomsmen and bridesmaids were lined up on their respective sides, the best man walked the Maid of Honor down the aisle. Draco sniggered to himself, the situation was quite comical when you looked at it. This was because each pair was composed of one member from each rival house. Just like the bride and groom.

The Bridal March started and everyone stood up. Draco glanced down the aisle, worries still flooding his head, but once he saw his bride to be on the arm of her father those thoughts vanished.

Draco was breathless when he saw Ginny in her dress. It was strapless, white, and sequined around the edges. It was snug around the middle but once it got to her hips it fluffed out. The bottom was made of a white silky material with a rough see-through material over it. The top was made with a silky material, hugging her stomach. She was actually worried she’d have to wear a corset to make her middle smaller. He hoped that she’d be willing to skip the reception because that dress was just too tempting for him not to try anything.


Ginny Weasley glanced nervously down the aisle; she was hoping she was doing the right thing. Were she and Draco ready for this commitment? They had been dating for three years when he had proposed to her, so if they made it those three years so far without killing each other, it should work out now. But now they were to be living with each other full-time. Not just one popping by the other’s flat when one of them, usually Draco, ran out of food or clean clothes.

She took a deep breath, glanced nervously over at her father and walked down the aisle, staring into the eyes of the man she was to wed. The long train of the white dress trailed behind her. All her worries disappeared. Her worries were replaced by thoughts of having children. Mini-Dracos and clones of Ginny’s running around. That could be a scary thought at times though.


When her father handed her off to Draco, she nearly cried. Would her father still consider her his little girl? Would they still be close as ever? If anything was to change between them she was going to call the wedding off. Of course, she knew she would never stop the wedding; she was too much in love with Draco to do that. She could already hear her mother and soon- to- be- mother in law sniffling and the wedding hadn’t even begun yet.



Soon the Reverend began his part in the ceremony. “Dearly beloved, we are gathered here today…” She only took her eyes off Draco when the Reverend said, “Who gives this woman to this man?” and then she looked to her father and soon her eyes were back on Draco.



When it came to the vows she thought she would forget everything that she had written down, but as she listened to Draco, everything came back in its rightful place.

“I love you. You are my best friend. Today, I give myself to you in marriage. I promise to encourage and inspire you, to laugh with you, and to comfort you in times of sorrow and struggle. I promise to love you in good times and in bad, when life seems easy and when it seems hard, when our love is simple, and when it is an effort. I promise to cherish you, and to always hold you in highest regard these things I give to you today, and all the days of our life.”

Ginny sniffled, and just wanted to kiss him then and there, but held her own and waited for the appropriate time.

“Draco, you may now place the ring on Ginevra’s hand,” the Reverend said. Draco shakily took the ring from the best man and placed it on the 4th finger on her left hand, in front of the quite large stone of her engagement ring. Course, even the wedding ring had to be big; Ginny was the most important person in his life, a small wedding ring would be appalling!

The Reverend then said, “Now, Ginevra, your vows please.”

She nodded and began to read hers, stuttering over the first couple of words due to nerves. “The sun smiles on us today, our wedding day, and how can it not? For, our love is stronger than forever and our hearts beat together as one. I promise to be a true and faithful partner from this day forward, in all life's circumstances, as we face them together. In the joys and sorrows, the good times and bad, in sickness or in health, I will always be there for you, to comfort you, love you, honor and cherish you, now and forevermore.”

Their mothers had started crying and Narcissa was sniffling into a cousin’s shoulder whilst Molly cried into Arthur’s shoulder. Arthur awkwardly patted her shoulder, trying to calm her down.


“Now, Ginevra, please place the band on Draco’s hand, please.” She nodded and handed the bouquet to the Maid of Honor before sliding the little platinum band on Draco’s finger. She sniffed and fought the urge to wipe her eyes.


‘By the power vested in me, and the Wizengamot, I now pronounce you Mr. and Mrs. Draco Malfoy. Draco, you may now kiss the bride.’


Draco all but attacked her as he lifted the veil and placed a kiss on her mouth. “I’ve been waiting for this part all day,” he whispered to her. She giggled and pulled back. Their mother were sobbing like babies by now and the kiss only made it worse because their babies were now officially married.


The Revered had them face the congregation before announcing loudly and happily ‘May I now introduce, Mr. and Mrs. Draco Malfoy.’


The cheers went up as the two of them made their way back down the aisle hand in hand . People were standing up, crying and clapping. Everyone was happy for the new couple.


Just for show, Draco stopped her before they reached the door and kissed her again. That earned the couple catcalls from the Slytherins. All of Ginny’s brothers just groaned and rolled their eyes. Arthur was still trying to comfort Molly.



*present day*


Draco opened his eyes, smirking; that day he had been full of nerves. He was so scared she would stand him up but she didn’t. They had remained loyal to each other. And now, he was going to be a father. He had helped Ginny produce a little baby; of course that little baby hadn’t been born yet.


He shut his eyes again, and thought some more. Then he had a scary thought. That baby was going to get married. If that baby turned out to be a girl, Merlin help the man that married her! Draco had every intention of collecting every male relative and friend to help with the required interrogation. But that’s only going to be because he’s going to spoil her and have her be Daddy’s little girl forever. Even when she’s in her 80’s and has great- grandchildren.


A son though, another Malfoy to carry on the name, someone who would idolize him. Draco liked the sound of that. His son would want to grow up like him and most definitely play Quidditch just like his Dad. He hoped that if he had a son, he’d marry someone like Ginny, someone who he can talk to when he has a problem, who will comfort him when he’s upset, put him in his place when he’s being arrogant. He needs to find a wife who will just love him, even though he’s in a bad mood. His son would need a wife to just be there for him through it all, like Ginny was for him.



He opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. He couldn’t help but be excited at one day in six or seven months holding a little baby that had his eyes and her hair, or his hair and her eyes, or just looked all like him or all like her. He smiled slightly. Of course, the down side to it would be 3 A.M. feedings, diaper changes, crying, and crankiness, from the baby and his wife. He knew he was up for the challenge. He was mature enough.

What really got him going was the baby was to be born around his birthday, either a week before or a week after. He had told Ginny to not get him anything, that the baby will do. She had laughed at him for that. He too laughed quietly at the idea.

“Might I ask what’s so funny, Mr. Malfoy?” Ginny’s voice came from the doorframe, where her still slender frame stood.



“I was thinking…” he began.



“For once,” she teased him before he continued on speaking.



“About what I said to you, how the baby was to be my birthday gift from you,” he said sitting up slightly.



She nodded lightly and walked over to him, sitting next to him “It was amusing,” she said.



“What are you doing home so early anyways?” he asked her.



“My mum was driving me mad. She was either bugging Hermione about how she’s taking care of herself, or bugging me on how I’m taking care of myself. So, I told her, I needed to sleep and that I’d see her this weekend.”



He laughed. “Really?”

She nodded.

“ I most certainly did. Oh... I told her you were feeling sniffly…” he chuckled at the expression.“ She made a big pot of soup for you. Mum sent a message along with the soup. She said, that if you do get sick, I am to kick you out of bed and quarantine you in one of the guest rooms.”

He rolled his eyes. “I sneezed twice, Gin, and sniffed afterwards.”



“Well, we can’t have me and our baby getting sick, now can we?”


He shook his head, “No, Gin, we can’t.”



“Good boy,” she said and kissed his cheek before standing up.



“Where are you going, Weasley?” he teased, using her maiden name.



“Isn’t it obvious? I have a baby in me, and a bunch of ice cream in the freezer. The two have to meet.”



He laughed. “Save me some, I’ll be down shortly.”



She nodded and went off.



Draco lay on his back again, thinking once again. He was wondering if he’d make a good father to this baby. What if he made a mistake? What if he did something that made the baby not like him. What if the baby was born not liking him? All these 'what ifs' were driving him mad. He sighed. Draco was pulled from his thoughts when Ginny sat on his lap.


“Sickle for your thoughts?” she asked him.



He explained to her everything he was going through. She shook her head “Draco, everyone has those same thoughts, and they’re just that, thoughts. There hasn’t been a baby born that doesn’t love its parents. This baby will love you Draco, and I’m sure you’ll love her or him. Mistakes help you grow, everybody makes mistakes Draco, its normal. No more worries… ok?” she asked him.



He nodded “It still bothers me.” She nodded and stretched out on top of him “I have those same worries,” she muttered. “I had those same worries when we got married, as well. I thought we’d end up killing each other with our tempers,” she giggled. His hand went to play with her hair.



“Were you nervous that day?” he asked.



“Of course I was. I was a wreck. I was running around, I wouldn’t stay still long enough to get my hair done. I kept turning my head when it came to the veil. The dress kept slipping down so we had to pin it… literally, then once it was pinned we charmed it so it finally fit. I couldn’t find my bouquet, I got sick once or twice from fright… it was horrible,” she finished.



“You looked beautiful,” he said kissing her lightly. “You still do. You always will,” he said.



-------------



Author’s note: Yay. Chapter 2 done. If you hadn’t noticed this isn’t a continuation, more like ficlets, but I mean, it’s all good right? You bet it is. Anyways, read, review, and feel good that you did a good deed by making one author happy. Anyways, thanks to my beta, (who was helping me through the wedding scene) Diggingupophelia. Myweddingvows.com for help with the vows. And all you reviewers, who inspired me to write another chap.

Beta’s Note: Please leave reviews. A lot of hard work went into this story, and she deserves to hear some feedback. ~ diggingupophelia~

One more thing, I am Baptist, so I have a Reverend, if in anyway this chapter has offended you in anyway, whether by religious reasons or what, I do apologize, please forgive me. The vows were Christian, so I’m hoping that covers the Catholics, etc. If you have any problems with religion, please let me know and I think this chapter will be the only one that has any religion mentioned in it. Please accept my apology, I didn’t mean to offend anyone.
Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman by Aquarius21
Draco Malfoy opened the door to his flat, the kitchen light was off, which was odd. Tonight was usually the night Ginny's shift ended early. Normally, she would come by after work and cook dinner. He wasn't sure if he should worry or not. Surely, she would have owled if anything happened. Draco just cleared his thoughts, thinking that she was just going to be a little late, maybe she had one more patient and went to shower.

After he showered, he checked the clock. 'She should have been here by now,' he thought. He started cooking the meal. First he put the noodles into boiling water. The he poured sauce a jar into a pan. Finally, he set a charm for the pots to stir themselves and one for the stove to turn off when the food was done. Just when he thought he was done, he remembered the bread. He stuck bread in the oven before he allowed himself to be proud of his effort. Ginny had taught him a few tricks in the kitchen, at least some of them had to do with cooking! He paced around his flat, he was beginning to worry. Normally, she would have Floo'd or sent an owl, at the very least.

Not very long after the dinner had been fully prepared, an owl flew through the window. It made it's way to Draco and dropped a letter, which promptly hit Draco in the forehead. The owl then flew back out before Draco could reach his wand and hex it. The owl was unfamiliar to him, so he was a little leery about opening the letter. He looked at the seal out of the envelope, he didn't recognize it. He opened it carefully and slowly, and let out a breath of relief when he saw the handwriting.

When he did open it, it read:

'Draco,

I am working late tonight, so sorry I didn't have time to let you know earlier or make dinner. If you made dinner, it might be just you dining tonight. Again, I apologize and I'll try and stop by tonight, after my shift is over.

Love,
Ginny'

Draco sighed. "Well, if Ginny can't come to me, I'll just have to go to her."

And that's exactly what he did. He put the food on a couple of plates, charmed them so they'd be warm, and Apparated to St. Mungo's.

Draco walked down a familiar corridor. Ginny had her own office. She was a healer, and she specialized in Emergency Healing. Draco knocked on her door and heard a tired voice call, "Come in."

He smiled at walked in. "Surprise," he said setting the plates down on her desk.

"What did you make? And is it edible?" she asked, half teasing.

He rolled his eyes. "Pasta, and of course it's edible," he said, indignantly. Then he shrugged and said in a voice that was less certain, "I hope." He sat in the chair across from her on the opposite side of her desk.

"Well then, I guess it's going to be a good thing I'm a healer if it isn't," she said. He smirked and moved his chair next to hers. She yawned and laid her head on his shoulder, "I'm so tired." She glanced up at the clock and sighed. "Only three more hours before I can go."

He shook his head. "It's outrageous! I can't believe the hours they force you to keep. It isn't humane." She could only nod in agreement while picking at her food. They ate the rest of the meal in semi- silence, with the occasional words exchanged. He had his arm wrapped around her, until she was called to the emergency room.

She groaned and stood up.

"Come to my place after work. I'll make it up to you," he said. She nodded and kissed him before heading out. He cleaned up and Apparated home.

When he arrived back at his place, he cleaned up a bit. The place was a mess, the mess consisted mostly of clothes that were just randomly scattered about, as well as a few books and papers. After that job was finished, he set off to clean the kitchen from the minor mess he had made while cooking dinner. Next, he moved onto his bedroom, where both his and Ginny's clothes were strewn about, along with some other random things.

He tried his hardest to make it clean, he had a hard time remembering all of the charms Ginny used. He finally managed to straighten up his bed and clean the bathroom. By the time he finished, it was nearly time for Ginny to drop by and soon enough, he heard a tell tale 'pop'. Ginny had finally arrived.

Ginny set her stuff down on a chair and lie down on the couch.

"No, no, no. Not on the couch," Draco said, lifting her off the couch and heading for his room.

She groaned, wrapping her arms around his neck and snuggling down into his chest. He allowed himself to smirk at her behavior as he gently set her on the bed.

She shifted to move under the blankets, but Draco stopped her. "You can either have a massage or just a bubble bath," he said.

"Hmm..." she said, "I'll take a massage," she finished, rolling on to her stomach.

He nodded. "Ok, then. But, it is going to cost you. The shirt comes off," he said, simply.

She sat up and tossed her shirt to the side. He forced himself to avert his eyes, otherwise, she wouldn't be getting a massage tonight.

He started at her neck, rubbing the stiffness out of her muscles. He gradually worked his way down, hearing moans of praise as he hit the right spots.

Draco would freeze for a moment when she did that, in an effort to clear his thoughts of making those same noises in a slightly different situation.

He shook his head and moved his hand to unhook her bra, he didn't want to miss an inch of her back. When he did that, Ginny sat up and removed it seductively. He groaned inwardly and made every effort to force himself to focus on the task at hand, a simple massage.

He stopped when he reached her lower back and worked his way back up. When he reached the top again, Ginny smirked and stood up and sauntered into the bathroom .

"I'm going to take a bubble bath now. I could use some company."

Draco smirked and stood up and followed her into the bathroom. He knew exactly what Ginny had in store for him.


*~*~*~*~*

Author's note: This chapter was different from the last, but shows what kind of guy Draco is when not totally arrogant. I still don't own anything. The idea came along when I heard Bryan Adams song 'Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman' (or something along those lines) I think the song fits Draco, I mean, he cooked a meal for her, and then gave her a massage, without her even asking! You know that's love. Anyways, thanks to all my reviewers, and my wonderful Beta, Diggingupophelia. She rocks. She gives off a very positive vibe, also very helpful when I'm feeling all 'bleh' about my writing. Anyways, just got attacked by the Plot bunnies so I must write! Ta!

B/N: If you are feeling generous, take the time to leave some feedback. A lot of work went into this chapter.
Trials and Tribulations by Aquarius21
Ginny Malfoy sat prepping herself in front of her vanity. She smiled to herself, tonight was her third anniversary with Draco. She had no idea what was planned for the evening. However, she knew since Draco was planning it, it’d turn out well. As tradition was, Draco planned the anniversaries. They had started the tradition when they were dating and saw no reason to change it once they were married.

True, they had some minor problems in the past, but what couple didn’t? They worked through their problems and still held on together. At first, everyone was shocked to see a Malfoy, of all people, marrying a Weasley. But in the end, everything turned out as planned. Ginny couldn’t have asked for a better husband. He was kind, loving, and made sure she was always happy. Even after they had an argument, Draco would always check on Ginny to make sure she wasn’t too miserable.

She stood up and headed to her closet to pick out something nice to wear. She was determined to look wonderful for Draco. After much debate, she picked out a sleeveless, silver dress. It was low cut in the front, and the bottom angled out. She planned to wear a cloak over it. Draco liked it because it showed a lot of skin. Ginny liked because it accentuated her complexion and hair.

After a quick shower, she slipped into the dress. Next, she started on her hair.

“What can I do with my hair tonight?” she asked staring at her reflection. Ginny was playing with her hair to see how it could look in different sorts of styles.

Normally, her hair just fell straight down to the middle of her back, she kept it long since Draco had a habit of playing with it. She was having a difficult time deciding what to do.

“Should I pin it all up?” she asked her reflection, as she held her hair up. “All down?” she asked as she let it fall. “Or, something in between?” she asked, gathering part of her hair to see the effect. She wished that the mirror would answer her questions.

Finally, she decided to go with something in between. She charmed the loose part of her hair to be wavy. It really didn't look like something out of a fashion magazine, but she was pleased none the less. She knew she wouldn’t question her choice later.

After the whole ‘hair issue’ she moved onto the make-up; she normally wouldn’t wear much, tonight was no different. She put on a bit of lip stick, and a touch of blush, she decided to put on eye shadow, but skip mascara. She had her nails done earlier in the day so she didn’t have to worry about that.

Hermione had gotten Ginny hooked on listening to Muggle music. She turned on her radio to listen to while she relaxed. After getting all primped up for Draco, she didn’t want to ruin her hair or make up. Muggle music just helped her unwind after a long day of working, or being stressed out. It had its simplicity that Wizarding music lacked.

'When I first saw you, I saw love.

And the first time you touched me, I felt love.

And after all this time, you're still the one I love.'

Ginny shut her eyes and thought back to the first time she had seen Draco Malfoy. It was the summer before her 1st year at Hogwarts and Draco and Ginny were in Flourish and Blotts. Of course, he had criticized her family, but Ginny couldn’t help but notice he was handsome. She still felt smitten for him. Her family thought it was a phase at first, but then they started dating more and finally got married, so they tolerated him for the most part. They did however, take issue with the fact that he wanted to hex her brothers dead every time they came within eyesight, or vice versa, but now they were almost friends.

Ginny laughed as she thought of the time at ‘The Family Picnic’ when they started dating. All her brothers were there with their wives and children and Ginny brought Draco, and Ron had said something to Draco that caused him to lose his temper and he turned Ron into a pigeon. What Ron said was something no polite person would repeat in civilized conversation, so Draco did the gentlemanly thing and hexed him. Draco turned Ron into a pigeon -- a really ugly pigeon, at that, so that the other brothers had to go after him, and when they finally caught him, they took a leaf out of Moody’s book and with one wave of a wand, Draco was once again ‘The Amazing Bouncing Ferret.’ Ginny was none too pleased with any of the men after that, and even though most of the brothers settled their differences with Draco, there was a couple who still wanted to hex him silly, like Ron.

'Looks like we made it

Look how far we've come my baby

We mighta took the long way

We knew we'd get there someday


They said, "I bet they'll never make it"

But just look at us holding on

We're still together still going strong'

Ginny again related to the song, so far it seemed that the song was following their relationship. How many times people had scoffed at them, people had said, “Oh, it won’t last long.” But they were wrong; they had been together for three years. At the part ‘I bet they’ll never make it’ she leaned back in her chair. She remembered a Hogwarts picnic after they had graduated and had been dating for a couple months when Pansy Parkinson happened. Pansy was all over Draco, flirting with him the whole time, even when he tried to be with Ginny, she still came up to him to flirt. Ginny had even overheard Pansy saying to Draco “Whenever you ditch the Weasel, you always know you can come to me, I can pleasure you so much better."

Ginny left after she heard that, her eyes red with fury towards Parkinson, and Draco had followed her shortly after that; he was angry as well towards Pansy. She was damn near determined to prove to everyone that they would be together forever, and they nearly had.

'(You're still the one)

You're still the one I run to

The one that I belong to

You're the one I want for life

(You're still the one)

You're still the one that I love

The only one I dream of

You're still the one I kiss good night'

She smiled; she was starting to like this song. She’d make Draco listen to it one of these days. She checked her watch and listened more.

'Ain't nothin' better

We beat the odds together

I'm glad we didn't listen

Look at what we would be missin''

She would have missed out on getting to know Draco even more so; actually realizing he had a soft spot and could actually be very sweet, even though you only saw his rough outer exterior. A bittersweet memory came into her mind – she almost missed out on being with him.

It was her 7th year at Hogwarts; Ginny was out during a Hogsmeade weekend. She usually met up with Draco then, but this weekend she just wanted to be by herself.

She didn’t know Draco would be in town that weekend for a quick business meeting. She had been wandering throughout the village for quite some time when she saw Draco with another woman by his side walking into the Three Broomsticks. Ginny, having the Weasley temper, immediately saw red, and followed the two in there. When she got in to the pub, she made her way over to one Mr. Draco Malfoy and proceeded to chew him out for all he was worth. She was in the sort of mood where she would shoot now and ask questions later. She didn’t pause for breath once, not even to give him a chance to explain himself. When she was done she stormed out.

Draco excused himself and followed Ginny out. She was walking back towards Hogwarts when he finally caught up with her. He demanded to know what she was thinking when she went in there. She just asked him the same question. Eventually their voices started getting louder and louder to the point where they were drawing a crowd to their argument in the middle of the street.

Luckily for her, Fred and George heard the commotion and broke the two up before Ginny hexed off any of Draco’s more delicate body parts. Both were extremely furious with the other and George took Ginny back to the school. Fred told Draco to go cool down a bit before he took another try with Ginny.

Needless to say, when Ginny got back to her dorm she finally realized what she had done; she had blown the situation out of proportion. She knew she had ruined things between the two of them. But she was not ready to apologize yet; she was never one to give in first.

Two weeks after that incident, she still hadn’t heard from Draco. She finally flooed to the Manor, and apologized to Draco. She knew she was wrong to not give him a chance to explain himself and she had just overreacted. He was more than willing to forgive her. He was too much of a mess without her; he was driving people nuts because he didn’t know what to do with himself without her. After that, the two couldn’t have been any closer.

Looking back now, Ginny was glad she had apologized. She didn’t know where she would be if she didn’t have Draco and she didn’t want to imagine life without him, he meant more to her than she could express in words.

'They said, "I bet they'll never make it"

But just look at us holding on

We're still together still going strong


(You're still the one)

You're still the one I run to

The one that I belong to

You're the one I want for life

(You're still the one)

You're still the one that I love

The only one I dream of

You're still the one I kiss good night


(You're still the one)

You're still the one I run to

The one that I belong to

You're the one I want for life

(You're still the one)

You're still the one that I love

The only one I dream of

You're still the one I kiss good night


I'm so glad we made it

Look how far we've come my baby'

Ginny smiled once again as the song ended; it was perfect for the two of them, it described their relationship perfectly. She hoped Hermione knew the name of the song and the artist who wrote it. Maybe she would even have a ‘CD.’ Then she would force Draco to listen to it. She smirked to herself, yes… that shall be the plan…


Author’s note: I own nothing still. The song Belongs to Shania Twain ‘You’re still the One’ and the characters to J.K. Rowling, but the plot is mine… it ambushed me during chapter 3. Now my Beta might hate me... two chaps in one day. Anyhoo… thanks to my reviewers again and the lovely Diggingupophelia for beta-ing. She IS awesome, and she is so kind at that too.
Draco goes to Azkaban by Aquarius21
Draco knew he'd regret waking up. It wasn't that he didn't love waking up next to Ginny, because he did. The fact that she was carrying his baby made it a million times better. He loved her face when she was sleeping; sometimes smiling, sometimes frowning. He always wondered what she dreamt about as he watched her face. He couldn't help but wonder if he was in her dreams when she smiled. Sometimes she'd wake up before him and watch him until he awoke, then they'd gaze lovingly into one another's eyes until one got up.

This morning she wasn't in bed. Ginny's morning sickness had kicked in late and once in a while she'd be sick early morning. He sighed, he hated seeing her sick. He waited for her to return before getting up to take a shower, when she came out he kissed her cheek. He didn't avoid her because she had just vomited, but because he was self conscious about morning breath. Even though Ginny told him time and time again that his breath was fine.

While his shower water heated up, he brushed his teeth and shaved. He hadn't shaved for a few days and had stubble built up. Ginny liked it when his face was rough, but he couldn't stand it. When his water was ready he stepped in and lathered up his hair, he was attempting to grow his hair out and parts clung to his forehead. After his shower, he was rather surprised Ginny hadn't jumped him so, he toweled off, and whilst still clad in the towel, Ginny made her move. Draco had to give thanks for the pregnancy hormones!

After their bathroom quickie, the only reason Draco got dressed was because he was running late for work. Ginny watched him as he dressed; admiring his long, sleek body. He was as tall as Ron, but no where near as lanky. He had long, lean, semi-tan legs, narrow waist that made her jealous, of course it would never widen. 'Damn him,' she thought. His torso was muscular, having a flat stomach and broad chest and shoulders. His arms were long and strong and they always made her feel safe when he held her. Draco looked like he took care of himself perfectly, but he was just lucky and blessed with a great body.

He dressed today in black dress pants, a black long sleeved shirt with a dark blue tie. He had remembered while in the shower that he had to go visit Azkaban. Despite the fact that Draco owned his own business, he occasionally volunteered his services as an Auror. Today he was asked to go along to interview some recently captured Death Eaters. Even though Potter had killed Voldemort six years ago, there were still a few Death Eaters who still took it upon themselves to cause trouble. He sighed softly, going to Azkaban meant seeing his father. Lucius Malfoy had been imprisoned since the summer before Draco's sixth year at Hogwarts.

Lucius didn't know Draco had married Ginny, nor did he know that Narcissa had remarried two years after his sentencing. She had married a French Wizard she had met while in Paris. Draco didn't like the fact he was French, but as long as he made her happy and respected her, he was okay in Draco's book. Draco knew his mother still loved Lucius, but also knew that she wouldn't spend an eternity waiting on his release. Part of being a Malfoy knew meaning when to keep one's mouth shut with regard to certain topics. Narcissa's marriage was one of those certain topics. Besides, Draco didn't want to be the one to inform his father of that tidbit of information; he liked all his body parts where they were, thank you very much.

Draco broke free of his thoughts and walked over to Ginny. He kissed her goodbye, said he loved her, and apparated to the Ministry. Ginny wasn't due to work for another couple hours.

~~~~

Draco ran his fingers through his still damp hair and walked into his office. His partner, Rob Anderson, was already there, getting files ready.

"Ready, Draco?" asked Rob.

Draco nodded weakly.

"You seem nervous," Rob observed.

"I am," Draco replied. "I'm going to the place where my father has been locked up for the past 8 years."

"Wow," the reply came. "How did he end up there? If you don't mind me asking?" Rob had transferred here to this department about two years ago from Spain, and as a result hadn't heard all about Lucius Malfoy or the history or his sordid past.

Draco proceeded to explain the whole messed up story: how Lucius had gotten caught and charged with many accounts of murder, denied everything, found guilty and dragged kicking and screaming to Azkaban. The other man nodded throughout the story, "Wow," he said again.

Draco nodded. "He doesn't know I'm married nor about to become a father," he finished.

"Think he'll try and talk to you?" he asked.

Draco merely shrugged. "I don't want anything to do with him. He's just someone from my past. I now have a stepfather who got my Mum pregnant." He said sighing. Narcissa Malfoy Sinclair, was indeed pregnant and due next month no less. The only thing that bothered him was that the baby would have a sissy French name.

His partner nodded. "We better get going. We have to Portkey directly to Azkaban," he said.

Draco nodded, now that he put thought to it, Narcissa had changed greatly since Lucius got sent away. She made more public appearances. She donated things she didn't need to different charities. She even made peace with the Weasleys, going so far as to become good friends with Molly. She was just a different person all together. Her new husband was more than fine with the way she was living, as long as she kept herself healthy, he had no complaints.

Draco glanced around then grabbed the Portkey offered to him; he felt the familiar tug behind his navel. When his feet firmly hit the ground on the edge of the Arctic Ocean near Azkaban, he once again got lost in his thoughts. Lucius hadn't always been a Death Eater, of course he had always been interested in dark artifacts.

Draco had decided years ago that Lucius being in Azkaban was for the better. No more Muggles and Muggle-borns being killed for heinous reasons.

He smirked when he thought that Lucius would probably die if he learned he was related to the Weasleys. And because of the marriage, he'd be partially related to Potter and Granger as well. He laughed out loud at the imagined look on Lucius' face as he informed him of the matches made by marriage so far: Blaise, whom had been a second son, married Granger. Pansy, had married Weasel. Potter was the only one of the Golden Trio to not have taken up with a Slytherin, so far. Last Draco knew, he was dating Lavender Brown, or was it one of the Patil twins? Who knows, maybe it was both. He could even be dating Katie Bell. Potter was a player and it was difficult to keep track of who he was dating, the turn around was just too quick.

He thought back to all his brothers in law and their respective spouses. Bill married Fleur Delacour. Charlie married a Romanian girl. Percy was never discussed, so no one knew about him. Fred or George had married Alicia Spinnet. The other twin married Angelina Johnson. He had about 12, give or take 3 nephews, and one niece, thought she wasn't technically related because she was Blaise and Hermione's daughter. So far, the Weasley Clan had no new girls since Ginny. He had wondered if his baby would be a boy or girl. He secretly hoped a girl, just to be different. He knew the chances of a girl were slim. His father had no sisters, but yet his mother had two sisters. And Ginny's side was hopeless. He and Ginny had already picked out a boy's name, but didn't bother with a girl's name. But Draco had thought one over 'just in case,' he said. He knew he'd probably be wrong, but it's the thought that counts.

Draco had been so lost in thought that he hadn't noticed that they were almost to the boat that would take them to the island. He wasn't one for boats but got in anyway. After an hour-long boat ride, Draco was feeling quite nauseous. Finally, they got off and headed for the dark, cold prison. It was gray and looked very rundown. He shivered slightly and pulled his cloak tighter around himself. They walked in and each handed over his wand. Draco then silently walked behind his partner, down the rows of cells, trying desperately not to look into the ones that held his aunt and uncle. He had yet to see his father, thank Merlin. The set up was quite simple, there were cells on both sides of the hall , which extended for quite a distance. The cell fronts were just bars, holding in the prisoners, anyone could easily look in. Draco had been here before and learned where his various family members resided within the prison.

Three hours later and the interrogations were over. They had been going around in circles for the past hour and decided to continue another day. 'Oh joy,' Draco thought. It was then that a raspy voice spoke his name, "Draco." Draco turned towards the person who called and horror filled his face. Lucius was standing in his cell, his hair was quite matted and dirty. His face was thin, his cheeks hollow, his eyes sunken and dark. His body, from what Draco could see, was skin and bones. It was a sight that would cause nightmares for most.

Draco took a step back and just looked at him.

"Do you not know your own father?" asked Lucius.

"I have no father, my father died 8 years ago," Draco said to him, turning to leave.

"Send my love to your mother," he said.

"I don't think she wants to hear from you," he said. "Nor do I." he answered bitterly.

"You're married?" he asked, noting Draco's wedding band.

"Yes," Draco answered.

"To whom?"

"None of your business. Good day," he said and left.

When Draco got back to headquarters, he secluded himself in his office. He only left when he needed to use the restroom, then went back. He did not even bother to have a late lunch. Soon enough, the day was done and after checking out, he Apparated home. Ginny was setting dishes on the table when he walked in.

"I'm not hungry tonight," he said wearily.

"Are you feeling alright? You don't look too well," she said, her inner Molly Weasley coming out.

He shrugged and headed up to their bedroom. Ginny followed him, now worried. He was slowly getting undressed, taking his time.

"Bad day?" she asked, sitting on the bed.

"That's an understatement," he said. He then explained the whole day to her. When he was through, she hugged him.

He smiled slightly and hugged her back, pulling her into his lap. She was the only person he knew of that could change his mood by just hugging him, smiling at him, or kissing him.

He gave her a light kiss and she deepened it. Hell, he wasn't complaining, and then one thing led to another and they were making love.

~~~~

Later that evening, Draco lay on their bed. Ginny was asleep snuggled next to him he had his arm around her. He smiled, he was content now. He was still bothered by the day's events, but for now, he'd push it away and enjoy time with his wife.

~~~~

Author's note: Ha! I updated! I wrote a lot of this while driving to Washington D.C. It just came to my mind, and I finished it tonight (4/29) well, typed it up. The ending part of the chapter I wrote in math class. I'm so bad. It wasn't anything important in math. Well I hoped you enjoyed it and will review. I do love reviews, they feed the Muse nicely. *hint hint* Have a good evening y'all. And Thanks to my beta, Diggingupophelia, but any and all remaining mistakes are my own.
Anything but Pink by Aquarius21
Saturday, a day of sleeping until noon, followed by a big lunch, another nap, dinner, and then spending the rest of the night with your spouse. It was a perfect day, at least in Draco’s opinion. That was his plan, for Saturday; however, Ginny had other plans. Instead of sleeping at nine in the morning, he was helping Ginny with her garden. Draco was not luxuriating as he thought he should be! On the contrary, he was getting hot, sweaty, and dirty, while Ginny barked orders at him.

“Plant the daisies by the tulips,” she said pointing. He nodded.

“Wait… on second thought.. move them by the petunias…” Ginny directed.
“Ok” he said nodding, moving them by the petunias.

“No, I liked them better by the tulips….”
“Ginny!” he said exasperated. “Pick a spot and stay with it!” he said, the heat had been awful and her constant mind changing was driving him mad.

After a few hours of back breaking labor he was finally done. Maybe after his shower, he’d be able to have lunch than sleep away the afternoon. Again, his plans were thwarted. As soon as he finished lunch, she had him upstairs, working on the baby’s nursery. Ginny had insisted that they hand painted the room, except one wall which Draco was allowed to decorate as he wished. He had plans to put a Quidditch scene from the game where his Slytherin team beat Harry’s Gryffindor team. Ginny rolled her eyes at that; she was determined to find a way to change his mind.

Draco grabbed the paintbrush and began on the other three walls.

“Draco, why didn’t you want this room pink, again?” asked Ginny out of the blue.

“Because, if we have a boy, he is not living in a pink room and I don’t feel like redoing it.”

“But I don’t want him growing up thinking pink is a girl’s color,” protested Ginny.

“It is,” he said.

“Most men believe pink is a girl’s color, you’ve just proved my point.”

“Ginny, if we had a little girl then I don’t mind, but since we don’t know what it is yet, I don’t want to paint pink. Plus you know you’ll have me in here changing it all around if it isn’t a girl because, well, that's just how you are!”

She sighed and nodded. “Fine, what colors would be acceptable?”

“Green with a gold bordering,” replied Draco.

“Fine.”

Draco then began painting the walls, wondering if they were having a girl or boy. At least they wouldn’t have to worry about the ceiling, he mused. The ceiling would be enchanted like the ceiling in the Great Hall at Hogwarts.

Draco groaned out loud, they had been painting nearly all afternoon now, and he still hadn’t a chance to sleep. He was starting to get bored and agitated.

“Ginny,” he whined. “I want to relax sometime”

“You will… when you go to bed.”

He knew better then to reply and simply grumbled. They both stopped at eat supper than back to work. They finally decided to quit around ten that evening.

As he lay down on their bed, she snuggled up to him and kissed his neck slowly. “Thank you.” She said “Even though we were working, I’m glad we spent the whole day together.” It hadn’t occurred to him that they had in fact, spent the whole day together. He groaned inwardly, that was rather stupid, and he was being so selfish he never realized it. Ever since he married Ginny this whole ‘guilt’ thing was coming more and more harder, and also more and more common.

Perhaps this day wasn’t completely ruined, he mused as Ginny's hand did something very naughty.


A/N: This is just a filler chapter until a real plot bunny comes along and whacks me upside the head. This is another creation of Math class boredom. Enjoy and see my profile for contact info if you are all interested. Thanks to my beta, all remaining mistakes are my own.
A Baby and a Pygmy Puff by Aquarius21
Ginny glanced to her brother, “Tell me again why you STILL don’t like Draco?” She asked rhetorically. Sometimes Ron needed reminding of the situation between Draco and Ginny.

“Because,” Ron said indignantly, “he’s still an arrogant prat whom you’re too good for.”

She glared at him. Her moods had been changing so quickly over the past few weeks; no one knew what to say to her. Even Draco had a hard time talking to her sometimes. “Well now, Ronald Weasley, news to you, Draco is not an arrogant prat. And, he will be the father of all your nephews and nieces. Understand?” she reminded him, giving him the Molly Weasley death glare.

Ron bit his lip. “Yes Gin, but you know, Harry is still very single…”

Ginny’s teacup barely missed his ear, “Well, I don’t want Harry. I’m quite happy with my husband, thanks,” she snapped. Her brother, how he got on her last nerve sometimes! And with that said and done, she moved to the living room.

Ron followed her a few minutes later, he honestly hated when his sister was angry at him. He always felt so guilty about it until he apologized. “I’m sorry Ginny…” he began, not noticing the look of discomfort on her face, “as long as you love him, and he loves you, and takes care of the baby and you, I’m happy… Gin? Ginny? It’s nice to respond to an apology…”

It was then he noticed Ginny biting her lip and her eyes shut tightly. “Gin, what’s wrong?” he asked, panic stricken.

“Oh… nothing… a little heartburn… nothing major…” she muttered more to reassure herself than anything.

“Uh huh… Let’s just get you to the hospital, just to get something for that heartburn, okay?”

She merely nodded. Two panicky Weasleys was never a good thing. He held her arm, Apparating with her to a narrow alley before walking with her to the front entrance.

Ginny never liked Side-Along Apparition, but it got them there quickly. Soon enough, she was admitted and being pushed through the many doors, taken to a delivery room only having time enough to tell Ron to get Draco.

Right… The baby’s prat of a father, he thought to himself and Apparated out with a *crack*

~~

Draco was sitting behind his desk, quite content, when his very distressed looking, fool of a brother-in-law, Apparated in.

“What in the name of Merlin do you want, Weasley?” he asked, leaning back in his chair.

“Shut it for a few minutes, Malfoy. Ginny has gone into labor,” he said, calming down.

“Are you sure? She’s only seven months along…”

“Are you up to arguing with the Healers at St. Mungos?”

“Well no,” he said standing up. “You should tell your family, Mrs. Weasley would have my head if she didn’t know about it…” he said apparating out.

Ron nodded. He was caught in between telling his mum and not, but seeing as it was Ginny’s first baby, he’d tell her, and that’s what he set off to do.


Draco had nearly gone nutters; he did not want to stand on queue while his wife could be having their baby. So, he did the next best thing, and simply went to look for her on his own. Following the signs, he managed to find the maternity ward, and asked a nurse where his wife was. She only responded that she had gone in for an emergency caesarean, and that he would not be permitted in, but he could wait in the waiting room.

He managed to do that, and a half hour later, in came several redheads, all shouting questions at him.

“Where’s Ginny?”

“Why aren’t you with her?”

“Is she alright?”

“Why’d she go in so early?”

“Why aren’t you answering us?”

Draco, in his distress merely shrugged, gaping around at the lot of them.

Arthur, sensing his only son-in-law’s distress, answered for him. “Perhaps it could be the fact he has no news of this, like the rest of us.”

Draco nodded at him, sitting back down, having stood when they arrived. Though they seem a little miffed, they all sat around and waited. Mrs. Weasley ambushed Draco with hugs.

A very tension filled half hour later, a doctor came out, taking off the gloves and mask. “Is there a Mr. Malfoy present?”

Draco stood up feebly, “Me,” he croaked out.

“Congratulations, Mr. Malfoy, It’s a-”


“Pygmy Puff?” Ron asked the two boys, backing up to the bin, and grabbing one up in his hand. In his rush to tell everyone, he had forgotten to tell Fred and George. The Puff in question merely sneezed, falling back into the bin with a little ‘Aieeee’ as it landed on top of its fellow Puffs.

“Don’t try to get out of this one,” Fred said, glaring at his brother.

“Our sister went into labor and you didn’t tell us?”

“Well, I uhm… I figured… uhm… you were busy with the store,” Ron stuttered.

“We have workers, Ron! We can take off! Our only sister is having her first baby!”

“I’m sorry. She’s at the hospital right now. She’s probably still in delivery,” Ron muttered, and with that the twins vanished from sight as they apparated to St. Mungo’s. He let a sigh of relief escape him, then followed the twin’s actions, and left as well.

~~~~~~

Draco was watching Ginny in awe as she held their baby. The Malfoy heir had a small patch of golden hair and brilliant blue eyes. Along with the little squashed face and pink skin of a traditional newborn.

Ginny’s family had already come and gone, so it just left the three of them alone. “What about Jamie?” Ginny asked Draco; they still hadn’t decided on names as off now, now that the baby was here.

“Hm… I don’t know. What about Aren, not spelled like the Celtic version, but rather the Scandinavian version: A-R-E-N.”

“That’s a lovely name, but let’s think more on it, if we find nothing else that’ll be the name.”

He nodded. “Alright, but you know, because this baby is a Malfoy, the name has to powerful and all that right.”

“Sure Draco, whatever you say,” Ginny said teasingly, rolling her eyes.




Author’s note: So… did you like it? I hope you did… don’t forget to R&R. Beta credits to Diggingupophelia and Rainpuddle, and all remaining mistakes, are moi’s. Cheers!
Baby Steps by Aquarius21
Author's Notes:
Disclaimer: This story is based on characters and situations created and owned by JK Rowling, various publishers including but not limited to Bloomsbury Books, Scholastic Books and Raincoast Books, and Warner Bros., Inc. No money is being made and no copyright or trademark infringement is intended.

Beta thanks goes to Mugglechump, Vinofaerie, and Ancient_Immie.

ALAS! An update after more than a year! (Prolonged update due to moving and serious writer's block)
It had been more than three months since the birth of their baby, and Draco was still in awe of his little girl. He loved everything to do with being a father, even all the diaper changes and late-night feedings – although Ginny handled that latter most of the time. One thing still made him uneasy, though, and that was being left alone to care for his daughter. Most of the time, Ginny was with him, but about once a month she got together with her sisters-in-law for a Girls’ Day Out. This was one of those days.

By this time, most people believed Draco should have been capable of caring for his nearly four-month-old daughter, and he was capable of it, really. He just felt a bit apprehensive about being on his own with such a young child. Having Ginny nearby just made him feel more comfortable. She made sure Draco didn’t make errors, and if he did, she told him how to avoid it next time. With her gone, how would he know when he was doing something wrong, other than the fact the baby was crying? Babies cried quite a lot, how would he know if the tears were normal, or a result of his inexperience? He’d rather avoid mistakes altogether, if he could.

Of course, he could go to one of his brothers-in-law if he had a problem, but then they would think him incompetent. Ginny’s brothers still weren’t too pleased with her choice of spouse, even years later. Draco could also go to his mother-in-law, but Molly Weasley wasn’t known for her discretion. At the next family get-together, Draco’s ineptitude as a father would certainly be mentioned in front of the whole Weasley clan. His mother would never be too busy for her own grandchild, but Draco didn’t want to run to her for every little thing. No, he would have to manage this on his own.

And that was the decision that leads to Draco’s current predicament, sitting in a rocking chair with his silver-haired angel screaming in his lap. For close to an hour, he’d been rocking her, but she was still wailing at the top of her lungs. Draco wasn’t sure what he could have done wrong. She’d been fed and changed – surely she should have been content. Yet, she was definitely not content.

He didn’t want to give in and go to his mother-in-law, so Draco sat, continuously rocking and bouncing the crying baby. At his wits’ end, he grabbed a pacifier from the dresser and stuck it in the baby’s mouth. He breathed a sigh of relief when she took it and the room was finally silent. The relief was short-lived, however, for only five minutes later Draco’s darling girl spit the pacifier out with great force, and the dam broke again.

After much drama from the little one, Draco walked around and rocked the baby. It had worked before when the child was being stubborn (Draco had no clue where the stubbornness came from…) and would not go to sleep. So, Draco walked, and walked, and walked. He wasn’t sure how long he had been walking when it happened. A tremendous belch escaped from his little girl’s mouth. He was surprised that something so loud could’ve come from someone so small, but that burp had ceased all tears and Draco had his good, quiet baby back, so he wasn’t complaining. At least, not until he discovered that noise was not all that had come out of his precious daughter’s mouth.

Draco smiled resignedly. “Now there’s Daddy’s good girl,” he said, heading to the washroom to wipe the baby’s face clear of tears, and to clean the remnants of his daughter’s last meal off of his shirt.

“Let’s make an agreement,” he said, rubbing the baby’s back as he walked to his study to rest. “No telling Mummy about this.”

***


Ginny didn’t return home until nearly seven that evening. When no one responded to her call, she set about looking for her husband and child. After a short search, she found them, fast asleep on the sofa in the study. She grinned at the pair, and headed to the kitchen to start supper.

It was another hour before Draco woke, or rather, was awakened, by a crying baby. He stood and carried the baby toward the kitchen, oblivious to Ginny’s return. He was surprised to find his wife setting the table.

"So, have a nice nap?" she asked him, grinning.

"We have an evil child." He declared

"And what makes you think that?"

"The fact that she burped and something unholy came out."

"Aw, did Draco get spit up on?" she asked him, teasingly.

"Yes," he answered rather indignantly.

"It isn't the first time..."

"Well, she ruined my shirt," he stated simply, before handing the child to her mother.

Ginny laughed and kissed the baby's cheek., "Did you miss your mummy?"

"Well, let's just say she's none to fond of formula,” Draco said.

"So you only missed a part of your mummy?" she inquired of the baby, who was happily playing with her mother's hair.

"I think I'm going to bed," Draco said, taking his plate of food in his hand and heading for the door.

"What did she do to you?" Ginny asked, laughing.

"Made me wonder why we had decided to have a baby," he said, grinning

After Draco left, Ginny smiled at the baby in her arms. "That's Mummy's good girl. Torturing Daddy becomes funnier as you get older," she cooed. She grabbed her plate up with the intention of joining her husband.

~~~~

Later that evening, as the couple laid in bed, the baby having long since been put down for the night, Draco turned to Ginny. "Gin, you asleep?" he asked.

"No... Why?" she asked, glancing up to him, as he was leaning on his elbow, staring down at her.

"I just wanted to tell you, that everyday, no, every moment, I love you more and more," he said. "I know I may complain sometimes, but I'm glad that we got married, and that you had our baby. I truly don't know where I'd be if you weren't here with me."

Ginny watched him a moment or two, before smiling up at him, pushing him on his back and kissing him thoroughly. "That was the sweetest thing you’ve ever said to me," she whispered before doing something so extremely naughty that it would have caused Draco to blush, if he hadn’t been too busy enjoying it.
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