Suffering Part 6: No Longer

Chapter 23

The morning sun filtered through the curtains as you, Severus, and Lucius bustled around the house, preparing for your family vacation to Cyprus. The twins were already up, excitedly playing with their toys while you tried to get everything in order. You had packed the night before, but there were always last-minute things that needed attention.

Baron was stuck to you like glue, fussing whenever you tried to put him down. His tiny arms clung to you tightly, making it nearly impossible to finish getting ready. Your orange ribbed bikini and matching skirt lay on the bed, waiting for you to slip into them.

Severus, shirtless and in his swim shorts, moved around the room with a calm efficiency, gathering the last of the toiletries and checking the suitcases one final time. "Where's Baron's sun hat?" he asked, glancing over his shoulder.

"In the nursery, I think," you replied, shifting Baron to your other hip. "I'll get it in a minute. I just need to—"

Lucius, also shirtless and wearing swim shorts, appeared in the doorway, his short quaffed platinum hair catching the morning light. "I've got it," he said, flashing you a reassuring smile. "You focus on getting dressed, Princess."

You nodded gratefully, trying to maneuver Baron onto the bed. "Thank you. You know how it is.."

Lucius reached out and gently took Baron from you, cradling him in his arms. "Come here, little bear. Let's give Mama a break, okay?"

Baron settled down almost immediately, his tiny hands gripping Lucius's shoulder. You took the opportunity to quickly slip into your orange bikini and matching skirt.

As you adjusted the ties, a wave of frustration and worry washed over you, thoughts of Mr. Hargreaves creeping back into your mind.

Severus noticed the change in your expression and walked over, placing a comforting hand on your lower back. "Remember, we promised not to let anything ruin this trip. This is our time together as a family."

You took a deep breath, nodding. "You're right. I'm going to focus on us and leave the rest behind."

Lucius returned with Baron, who was now contentedly sucking on a pacifier. "Everything's ready. The bags are packed, and the twins are already asking when we'll leave. We'll apparate together to the dock where the yacht is waiting."

You managed a smile, feeling the warmth and support from both of them. "Let's get this vacation started, then."

Severus leaned in and kissed your forehead. "It will be alright, Princess. Daddy will make sure of it."

With the last of the preparations complete, the three of you gathered the twins and prepared for the trip. As you all held hands, ready to apparate, you felt a renewed sense of determination to enjoy this vacation.

Surrounded by your not so little family, you knew you could put the worries about Mr. Hargreaves aside and focus on creating wonderful memories with your family.

With everyone ready and holding hands, you all apparate together to the dock where your yacht is waiting. The familiar sensation of being pulled through space leaves you momentarily disoriented, but you quickly regain your bearings. In front of you stands a midsize yacht, sleek and elegant, with cabins for both the children and adults.

The twins gasp in excitement at the sight of the boat. "Look, Mommy! It's so big!" Charlie exclaims.

You smile, feeling a rush of joy at their enthusiasm. "It is, isn't it? Come on, let's get settled in."

Lucius, carrying Baron, leads the way onto the yacht, followed by Severus, who is helping the twins. You take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the surroundings—the clear blue water and the bright Mediterranean sun shining down.