Harry Potter: An Alternate Universe

24) Christmas Dinner

Year: Graduated 1978
House: Slytherin
Gender: F
Love Interest: Sirius Black

Two years after the events that took place in Canis Major (a continuation off of Padfoot's Photo). Merry Christmas!

You're husband, Sirius, was in an exceptionally happy mood, and hey no reason to complain about that. Your godson, Harry, was home for the holidays along with the Weasley's and your star-student Hermione. Although, she won't be your student for the rest of the school year.

You were nearly four months into your pregnancy, and returning to Hogwarts would mean risking Sirius' exposure, especially with Umbridge being in charge. Your belly became more swollen by the week it seemed, and you couldn't have her being suspicious you knew of your husband's whereabouts. That'd mean back to Azkaban with him. 

In the past, remaining home and in hiding would mean more to cover up for the Order, so you remained teaching to not raise any questions. The past two years for you two was only talking through the fire in your office during the evenings, Summer, and of course, Christmas break. Seeing him so content in just remaining home with you was pleasing enough. A baby on the way was an overjoy.

Since everyone first arrived, you and Sirius kept busy in cleaning and making everyone feel at home. You came with the family to visit Arthur recuperating from the attack in the hospital. The night of Christmas Day, Grimmauld Place was festively decorated, and the prettiest you've seen it in a minute. Molly cooked dinner, Arthur was back from St. Mungo's, and all was well.

"Go on," you tell Harry when you met him in the hallway. He himself looked worn and tired, but managed to smile when he saw you. He paused, and came in for a hug. He was just about your height. When you released him, he made his way to the end of the dining room table, looking out at the guests exchanging gifts.

"How're you feeling, love?" Sirius appeared from behind, draping an arm around your shoulder with a cup of wine in his hand.

"Wonderful," you said, cheerfully. "Better now that I'm here." He knew about the stress Umbridge had put you through. You were glad to not have to see her again for the rest of term.

"Even...?," he looked down questioningly at your bulging stomach.

"I foresee not too much trouble." Sirius' eyes were full of wonder when you told him this.

"May I?"

"No need to ask," you replied. He placed a warm hand over the bump. Nothing had ever felt more right.

"A Christmas toast...," Arthur began. "To Mr. Harry Potter; to whom I'd not be here." There was a brief pause in acknowledgment. "Harry," he said, raising his goblet.

"Harry." You and the others toasted, while you raised an imaginary cup.

"Harry," Sirius chimed in. He winked at the boy playfully, taking a drink. Your head leaned against his shoulder.

Christmas dinner was delightful. The food was amazing, and Molly shooed you away after countless times you thanked her.

"Really, you shouldn't have-."

"Nonsense, dear! You've been more than accommodating to us." You somewhat envied her nurturing good-nature. You hoped to be a mother like her.

Harry thanked you and Sirius for the defensive magic books. He mentioned something briefly about how'd they will be loads better than the rubbish Professor Umbridge was teaching them (which you quite agreed with). The kids hung out with one another, Mrs. Weasley fussed over her husband, and all was well.

That night after everyone was situated into their rooms, you lied sleepily in bed, Sirius stroking your hair. You remembered nights of whispering to each other, talking about whatever came to mind. You'd run your fingers through his hair, over his arms and back, touching every scar and blemish. He did the same to you. Just like the days before they took him away. He looked at you with drowsy eyes.

"Do you know how much I love you?," you asked.

"Tell me again."

"Too damn much. Not enough. I'm on the fence." He laughed.

"I remember when you used to say such daft things."

"It's a habit."

Kind of mushy, but heeeeey it's Christmaaaaasss!!

Will be updating a Canis Major pt. 2. Stay tuned.

One more day! Tomorrow'll be like a late Christmas gift.

Goodnight my children!