Children of Sin

Chapter 24

July 28th, 1994.

"When are they coming?" Layla tapped her foot impatiently, "I haven't seen Flora in forever. When are the Scamanders and Shacklebolts getting here?"

"Their flight is due to arrive any minute Sweetie," Larissa placated her daughter, "you won't have to wait too long."

"Who are you most excited to see?" Victor asked Layla, "Selena and Rolf or Yusuf and Flora?"

"Don't ask hard questions," Layla pouted, before answering, "Selena and Rolf."

"Clearly not as hard as she made it out," Remus laughed, "it's clear she plays favorites."

"Ouch," a deep voice called, "I'm insulted Layla. You like my baby cousins more?"

"Yusuf!" Layla sprinted, running to hug the older boy, who immediately swung her around,  "it's so nice to see you."

"We weren't going to miss this wedding," Leta Shacklebolt said, walking with the rest of the family, "a vacation to France and a wedding? Count us in."

"Oi Yusuf!" Rolf called, "put Layla down. My turn to give hugs."

"Rolf!" Layla embraced her friend, "I'm thrilled that you guys were willing to come."

"How were your OWLs?" Victor asked Yusuf, making conversation, "I hear they can get really bad."

"They were alright," Yusuf shrugged, "though I still don't know my scoring. It's sort of nerve wracking, waiting for a response."

"I get the feeling," Lily sympathized, "the hardest part of taking them is waiting for the results."

"Thank you for inviting us," Esmerelda Scamander said to Larissa, "it's a true honor to attend your wedding."

"The wedding won't be for another week," Larissa laughed, "but in reality, I owe you a thank you for coming. I sent the invitation hoping you'd come, but to be honest, I wan't completely sure you would. We aren't particularly close."

"Well the kids certainly are," Esmerelda points out, "and we share a close connection. All of our lives were touched by Nicholas and Perenelle."

"You're right," Larissa nods, "we ought to go now. I'll show you to the place I've arranged for you all."

"Come along Jacob," Esmerelda called for her spouse, "and you too Gregory. Let's not make Larissa wait."

"Coming," Jacob called, coming to kiss his wife on the cheek, "lead the way Larissa."

"You certainly picked good people to befriend," Fleamont told Larissa kindly, "the Scamander family members are amongst some of the most warm hearted people I know."

"They are," James agreed, "especially Uncle Newt. He's a lovable dork if we're being honest."

"Definitely a dork," Sirius smirked, "I have never seen a grown man that excited over a drawing of a niffler."

August 12th, 1994.

"Hold still," Lyra Monet clucked her tongue as she tried to adjust Larissa's hair, "I can't get it right if you keep fidgeting."

"Sorry Lyra," Larissa apologized, settling down, "I'm just a little antsy."

"No need to be," Guenevive reassured her cousin, "it'll be a piece of cake. You're a gorgeous and talented bride, so unlike others, you don't need to worry."

"Vivie's right," Clarene smiled at her younger cousin who, over the years, has felt more like another sister. "You're absolutely radiant. No need to flip out."