Suffering Part 6: No Longer

Chapter 30

The Great Hall was bathed in the golden light of a fresh morning, the long tables gleaming with an array of breakfast foods that invited everyone to sit down and enjoy.

The usual formality of the teachers' table was set aside for the day as you, Severus, and Lucius decided to sit with the children at one of the students' tables. It was a rare and precious opportunity to enjoy the morning together as a family before the students arrived.

You smiled as you settled in between Severus and Lucius, their presence comforting and warm. Across from you, Draco sat beside his father, his wife Fleur and their adorable two-year-old son, Scorpius, at his side. Draco's love for the children was evident in the way he interacted with them, his face lighting up as Charlie and Stevie chattered excitedly about their plans for the day.

Fleur, radiant as always, helped Scorpius with his breakfast, her gentle encouragement making the little boy giggle. Draco reached over to tousle his son's blonde hair, his eyes soft with affection.

"This is lovely," you remarked, reaching for a piece of toast. "It's nice to have everyone together like this."

Severus nodded, his hand resting lightly on your back. "The calm before the storm," he added with a smirk, thinking about the impending arrival of the students.

Lucius sipped his tea, his gaze moving fondly over the assembled family. "Indeed. It's important to have these moments."

Charlie and Stevie were engrossed in a conversation with Draco, who was patiently answering their myriad of questions.

"Draco, will you show us how to make that cool spell you did last time? The one that makes the food dance," Stevie asked, her eyes wide with anticipation.

Draco chuckled, nodding. "Of course, darling. We'll find some time later today. Maybe after lunch?"

Fleur smiled at you, her blue eyes sparkling. "It's so wonderful to see the children together. Scorpius has been looking forward to this all week."

You reached over to gently brush a crumb from Baron's cheek, who was happily munching on a piece of fruit in his highchair. "We've all been looking forward to it. It's nice to have such a loving extended family."

As you spoke, you felt the eyes of Julian Lockwood, the new Muggle Studies teacher, on your group. He was sitting at the teachers table, watching the scene with keen interest, clearly trying to piece together the relationships between everyone. His curiosity was palpable, his gaze shifting from you to Severus, then to Lucius and Draco, trying to understand the dynamics of your blended family.

Lucius leaned in to kiss your temple, his voice low and tender. "A lovely way to start the day."

As the morning continued, the hall was filled with laughter and light conversation. Severus shared a rare, genuine smile as he watched the children, his usual stern demeanor softened in the presence of his loved ones. Lucius and Draco exchanged stories about their own childhoods, bringing a sense of continuity and connection to the gathering.

Scorpius babbled happily, trying to imitate his older cousins, which made everyone laugh. Fleur's melodic laugh filled the air as she helped Scorpius navigate his breakfast, her love for her family evident in every gesture.

The warmth and joy of the morning were palpable, creating a serene and loving atmosphere.

It was a moment of tranquility and togetherness, a beautiful start to the day that would soon be filled with the excitement and energy of Hogwarts coming alive once more.

You leaned back, taking in the scene with a contented sigh. "Here's to many more mornings like this," you said softly.

Severus and Lucius both nodded, their hands reaching out to hold yours. "To many more," they echoed, their eyes filled with love and commitment.