The one where James messed up

A Weasley welcome

The tension that had filled Grimmauld Place since their abrupt arrival from 2024 was slowly dissipating. After the call from the future, it was clear they were in this strange situation for the long haul, at least until they could figure out how to return. But as the silence stretched, the distinctive pop of Apparition broke through, and the sound of hurried footsteps echoed down the hallway.

Molly Weasley, eyes wide and filled with relief, appeared in the doorway. "Oh, my dears!"

Before anyone could react, she was rushing across the room, her arms open wide as she gathered her grandchildren, great-nephews, and nieces into a large, sweeping embrace. "You poor things, look at you, all grown up and with children of your own. Oh, Ginny, Arthur, can you believe it? We've got an even bigger family!"

Ginny barely had time to react before Molly was squeezing her, tears pricking her eyes as she took in the sight of her future family. "Mum, it's—"

"Look at you all!" Molly gushed, moving from person to person with a tearful smile. "Lily, Albus, and—oh, sweet James! And Rose, my darling! And—Scorpius Malfoy? Oh!" Molly hesitated just a moment at Scorpius but quickly brushed past any reservations, pulling him into a hug. "Well, if Rose loves you, you're family now."

Scorpius, clearly taken aback by the warmth of the embrace, managed a soft, "Thank you, Mrs. Weasley."

"Oh, none of that now! You call me Grandma Molly, just like the rest," Molly said with a wave of her hand, already moving on. "We've got to get you all fed, haven't we? I won't have anyone going to bed hungry in this house, even if it's 1995!"

Arthur Weasley, who had followed his wife into the room with his usual calm demeanor, chuckled softly. "Now, Molly, I think they might need a moment—"

"Nonsense, Arthur!" Molly interrupted, bustling toward the kitchen. "They've had quite the shock, and there's nothing a good meal can't fix. I'll whip up something warm in no time."

The future generation exchanged weary but fond glances, knowing well that when Molly Weasley made up her mind, there was no stopping her.

As they followed her into the kitchen, the smell of freshly baked bread and bubbling stew soon filled the air. Molly made sure each of them had a full plate, fussing over them as she went. "James, you're far too thin, you need more to eat. Lily, are you getting enough vegetables? And Rose, dear, you're glowing—you're expecting, aren't you? Oh, I could just cry!"

Rose blushed deeply, her hand instinctively moving to her belly. Scorpius, sitting beside her, gave her hand a reassuring squeeze under the table, though his own face was a little pink. "Yes, Grandma Molly," Rose replied softly. "We're expecting."

Molly's eyes filled with tears once more, and she clapped her hands together. "Another great-grandchild! Oh, what a blessing! We'll have the biggest family in the wizarding world before long."

Ron, who was seated across the table, let out a low groan. "You can't be serious, Mum. The Burrow's barely big enough as it is!"

Molly shot him a look, wagging her finger. "We'll make room, Ronald. There's always room for more in a Weasley household."

As the group ate, conversation shifted between laughter and stories of the future. It was strange to see the younger versions of their parents and relatives so lively, unaware of the dark days to come. But for now, the warmth of the meal and Molly's unrelenting affection created a cocoon of comfort.

Once the meal was finished, and plates were cleared, Molly turned to the group and clapped her hands again. "Right! Off to bed, all of you. It's been a long day, and you'll need your rest. I've set up some rooms upstairs."