You can never go back, but sometimes it's so hard to go forward.
Sunday, July 22nd - Late Afternoon

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Since she and Harry had come home from the events of Friday night, Daphne had refused to leave Glen Hollow. For the most part she remained in bed, curled up on her side of the mattress, buried beneath the covers and clutching a pillow.

Guilt, sadness and fear ate at her. How had she missed the signs? How could she have let Rose down so badly? And the others? How many had been hurt because of her, because of something she should have noticed?

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The conception of two people living together for twenty-five years without having a cross word suggests a lack of spirit only to be admired in sheep.
~ Alan Patrick Herbert
Sunday, July 15th ~ Afternoon

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Harry was in a mischievous mood and Daphne was the only target to take it out on since Dobby had taken off early that morning. Putting the guest list down for the surprise bachelor party they were throwing for Remus on the kitchen table, he looked over at his wife and grinned while taking a seat.

"Do you think one female exotic dancer is enough to embarrass the socks off of Remus or do you think we should get two? Maybe one of each, since Draco will be there would be better?"

It's hard to believe how fast time flies.
Sunday, July 8th ~*~ Late Afternoon

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Daphne sighed irritably and squirmed some more, trying to find a comfortable position. Laying on the couch should not have been this difficult!

Dobby popped up out of no where and wordlessly offered her another pillow, most likely the same one she'd pulled out from behind her back and thrown across the room in a fit of frustration less than an hour ago. She'd noticed it had disappeared at some point. For a moment, the urge to growl that she was fine and didn't need coddling was there, but Daphne bit it back and took a deep breath before gratefully reached for the offered item.

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If you limit your choices only to what seems possible or reasonable, you disconnect yourself from what you truly want, and all that is left is a compromise.
~ Robert Fritz
Sunday, July 1st ~ Early Morning

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Draco and Greg's birthday bash had turned out interesting enough, Harry decided while sitting down at his desk. He'd been unable to sleep and rather than risk waking Daphne, he'd gotten up and gone downstairs. He was still oddly disturbed at the events that had transpired and needed to figure out what was at the bottom of it. Pulling his journal, Harry read a few entries, gradually moving back until he closed it in frustration and put it away. It held no answers and he found himself replaying the events at the party over and over again.

Parish is a wanker, he told himself as he rose and turned off the lights in his study before shutting the door and heading back upstairs. He didn't even have the bollocks to stick around after.

WWN Broadcast
Friday, June 29th ~ Evening

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"- I had know that was all it would take to keep that hag Witherpool off my case and away from my stories, I would have volunteered to bring lunch for everyone before. It is not my fault she's got a thing for chicken salad. How was I supposed to know you aren't supposed to use the entire - What? - What do you mean I'm on the air? Already? Why didn't you say something sooner?"

"This is Rita Skeeter live in the gardens of the Black Orchid Hotel - which is the closest I can get thanks to security and that restraining order. That sound you hear is an almost tribal rhythm emanating from the hotel ballroom."

The noise grew momentarily louder before being drowned out by the unmistakable sounds of snapping twigs and a whispered curse. "They nearly saw me that time."

"Almost a primal beat, primal enough to remind this reporter of the events that occurred in that very ballroom just a few short months ago. Will tonight's festivities end in yet another veil of silence, much like the day after the Valentine's Ball and the rumored, yet sadly unsubstantiated, orgy that may or may not have taken place?"

"As always, ladies and gentlemen, WWN is always interested in the comments and concerns of our listeners. More importantly, if you personally witnessed a sensational bit of scandal, owl me, Rita Skeeter, care of the WWN. The Wizarding Wireless Network now returns you to our regularly scheduled programing."

Every girl needs a little reassurance once in awhile.
Sunday, June 24th ~*~ Early Morning

---

Normally Daphne was the last to wake up, especially on a Sunday when she chose to sleep in on her day off. But this morning something woke her early.

Whatever it was - dream, bird call or something else all together - was quickly forgotten as she made herself comfortable cuddled against Harry's side, the slight bump of the baby making it harder to fit against him like she used to.

Her frown was barely visible in the pre-dawn light. In her mind, she understood that the changes occurring in her body were necessary for the baby, and the baby was definitely something she wanted, but Daphne had always had issues with her weight and couldn't help wondering if Harry would still want her when she got fat. What if she couldn't get the baby weight off right away? What if it never came off? Draco would never let her hear the end of it, that she was certain of.

"Harry? Are you sleeping?" She knew Harry was still asleep, and the polite thing to do would be go back to sleep and talk to him in the morning, but Daphne wanted to talk about it now.

Some times there are sacrifices to be made.
Wednesday, June 13th ~*~ Afternoon

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Daphne said her goodbyes to Anne Perks, and stepped away from the woman's hospital bed.

After hearing what had happened on Monday, she'd wanted to visit the two people that had gotten hurt. Guilt had eaten at her for the last few days even though she hadn't had any part in what had happened when Bellatrix died, but that didn't stop her from wanting to see for herself that Anne and Snape would eventually be alright.

Dealing with her guilt over Bellatrix's death would take much more, she knew.

She stopped to lean against her husband for a moment, seeking a bit of comfort and strength, before moving on to find Snape.

Covered in bandages and looking even paler than normal, he was propped up against some pillows in his bed, arguing with his Healer. That, more than anything else could have, served to reassure her.

I got my mob scene in my eyes
You can ignore the voices of the people,
This is the beginning.

They say no consequence.
This is the beginning of the end.
Monday, June 11 :: Morning

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"This is to be a precision operation. Secure the area, retrieve Lestrange and bring her back to Azkaban for interrogation."

Scrimgeour steepled his hands and looked across his desk at the hand-picked group of Aurors listening attentively to every one of his words.

Kingsley Shacklebolt wasn't among them. The Minister had wanted disciplined, obedient officers on this mission, and while he respected the Head of the Auror Office, Scrimgeour didn't trust Shacklebolt to see what was best in this case.

For instance, Kingsley would probably think it necessary to inform the Hogsmeade office of what was about to go down in their town, and that couldn't be allowed.

And so it begins.
Sunday, June 10th - Early Afternoon

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Bill Apparated to Glen Hollow, one arm full of the carefully wrapped package, the other wrapped firmly around Tonks for a Side-Along Apparation.

Little had he known back when Tonks had told him about Longbottom's suspected fate - so that he could be ready in case Ginny needed comforting or a big brother's hold to keep her from going after someone for revenge - that he would be end up in the thick of everything.

"Remember, officially, I was just doing a favor for a friend when I agreed to look it over. Harry didn't go through Gringotts, and they could have my job if they thought I was doing paid, freelance work. If you weren't you, Nymph, I wouldn't even have told you what I found because it's Potter's, not mine, but this is big and - Oh, crap, this is big, isn't it?"

He knocked on the door once more, hoping the Potters were home and that someone would answer soon enough. The package was giving him the creeps, making the short hairs on his neck stand on end.

Suddenly, it seems so real.
Sunday, June 3rd ~*~ Afternoon

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Normally, Daphne wouldn't think of using her new station as the wife of the "Boy Who Lived to Defeat You-Know-Who Twice" to influence anyone into getting her something she wanted, but shouldn't really have. However, considering both their busy schedules and the fact that they weren't quite ready to let the entire Wizarding world know that there was a baby Potter on the way, Daphne hadn't a single twinge of guilt about asking her doctor if there was any way they could arrange a special appointment outside of normal office hours.

To Daph's delight, her doctor had understood about the Harry's notoriety, and had agreed to open the office on Sunday morning, just for them. She'd even had someone waiting to let them in through the backdoor.

It was all very cloak and dagger, but after what Daphne had learned about Bellatrix Lestrange and her own experiences with Croaker and the vampire, she didn't feel nearly as silly has she had expected.

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The more alternatives, the more difficult the choice.
~ Abbe' D'Allanival
Sunday, May 27th - Early Morning

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Bits of thought and planning flew with the wood shavings this morning. The discarded, impossible ones were buried deep within the pile on the floor. He could have spelled them away as soon as they flew off the lathe, but it was less satisfactory somehow. As the curls grew and spread so did his thoughts on how to handle the problem of Lestrange. Harry was sorely tempted by the fact Bellatrix was no longer living at the Malfoy Manor with its ancient wards, but he wasn't stupid enough to believe there weren't adequate ones present where she and Narcissa were living now. ( Some might be there courtesy of SnapeCollapse )

A weak man has doubts before a decision,
a strong man has them afterward.
~ Karl Kraus

Friday, May 25th ~ Morning

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Almost a week had gone by since Remus had informed Harry of Neville Longbottom's fate and who was the prime suspect in Remus' own problem. He'd spent the days remembering his old classmate and how brave Neville had been in spite of - or maybe because of - his own fears. He wondered briefly if Neville's parents were still alive, but knew he'd never check as he would have so many years ago.

Even if I did check, they wouldn't know or care who I was, he reasoned with the tiny bit of conscience that refused to stay quiet. It fell silent at last and he rose from the desk in his office to glance at the time. A few pieces of parchment were in one hand as he went downstairs to stop by Doris' office.

"Doris," he said as he laid them in her tray. "I'm leaving now and I won't be back until Monday."

I'm tired of good-byes and burials
Friends I have known
Some I just met
Standing around
It's hard to forget - now isn't it?
Sunday, May 20 • Morning

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He'd swung by Glen Hollow yesterday, before going out to work on the cottage, but by the time Remus had finally managed to leave his bed — for some reason, his wife had wanted him to stick around, and he'd been more than willing to oblige — Harry and Daphne were already off for the day.

Harry had owled back in response to the note Remus had left that they'd be at home on Sunday, and so Remus tried again.

An unpleasant job didn't get any easier by putting it off.

Remus let himself in the house and went looking for Harry.

An offer
Sunday, May 13th ~*~ Afternoon

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Daphne frowned and ran her hands over her waist again. Definitely bigger. Stupid skirt.

Her favorite "at home" skirt would need to be altered just a bit, and since it was so old and comfortable she didn't feel confident about doing it herself. "I'll take it in to Mum tomorrow, have a few inches added." Another look at her reflection in the mirror, as she tried to convince herself the few pounds she'd put on over the last month or two didn't matter in the scheme of things, it wasn't as if she'd been svelte before.

Harry hadn't said anything, he might not have even noticed... But Malfoy surely would before too long.

After pulling on a pair of comfortable jeans, Daphne went downstairs to look for Harry.

A great marriage is not when the 'perfect couple' comes together. It is when an imperfect couple learns to enjoy their differences.
~ Dave Meurer

Sunday, May 6th ~ Late Morning

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Since Izabel and Remus were at Glen Hollow and appeared to be disinclined to 'socialize', Harry hadn't done any work in his shop. Izabel was wearing the engagement ring again and the last thing he wanted to do was face a grumpy Remus when the noise filtered up to his suite.

Wouldn't want to disturb them while they're making up for lost time - so to speak, Harry decided with a chuckle. Wondering if Daphne was up and about yet he headed up the stairs to check.

If she is good and if she isn't - better.

If you carry your childhood with you, you never become older.
- Abraham Sutzkever
Saturday, May 5th ~ Afternoon

---

Roger grabbed a bottle of ale and set the broom he had just dismounted carefully aside. Looking around he couldn't keep the grin off his face. Some friends, a picnic, a few rounds of Quidditch, and a cold ale to drink - there was no better way to celebrate your birthday in his opinion.

And the best was yet to come.

Roger made his way over to Vera, thinking of the surprise he had enlisted the house elves help in setting up back in his quarters. Roger couldn't stop smiling as he plopped down next to his - hopefully - future wife and gave her a kiss.

"And what have you been up to?"

Family isn't about whose blood you have. It's about who you care about.
~ Trey Parker and Matt Stone
Friday, May 4th ~ Afternoon

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After kissing Daphne good-bye that morning, Harry started out on the bike toward London. He was planning on turning to back over to Sirius, but he had to admit he was going to miss it. A lot. Therefore, he wasn't in a hurry to get there.

I'll have to get my own and then we can ride them together.

It was a beautiful day and he tooled along the various roads, stopping for lunch in the pub he stopped in once before. The barmaid remembered him, but this time all he had to do was show her his wedding band. She was still friendly, but not like last time.

Gods, Harry decided with a shake of his head. I'm turning into a stodgy old married man - and I love it.

Probably better not let Remus know. I'd never hear the end of it.

Later, pulling up in front of Grimmauld Place, he turned off the motor and merely sat outside looking at the house for a long time. Memories of when Sirius had first come into his life and the offer to live here with him...

Lestrange took care of that quickly enough, but it was still my fault in the long run.

How can I ever make it up to him?

Getting off the bike and parking it next to the front steps, he walked up and knocked on the door.

I should really be getting paid for this.
Tuesday, May 1st ~ Early Afternoon

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The one good thing about Bill's "condition" was the way he could say he was taking the afternoon off for personal reasons, add a glare or two, and get away without having to answer any questions. All it took today was one quick glance at the calendar by his boss, and there was a flurry of hand waving and "We'll see you on Thursday." Not that Bill made a habit of using the moon as an excuse to play hooky, but the goblins knew he was good for making up the missed time, and letting him go saved the entire department being forced to walk on eggshells in case his temper decided to flare up.

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Beware Wizards bearing gifts.
Sunday, April 29th ~*~ Afternoon

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Daphne clutched the two wrapped gifts tightly to her chest as she moved across the short walkway to Snape's front door. She could see a dark shadow slowly start to detach itself from the side of the house, and that was her cue to stop and drop down to one knee. With a bit of juggling, Daphne shifted both gifts to one arm, and pulled a tart wrapped in a napkin out of her pocket.

"Hello, Claudius. Remember me?" She waited until the dog cocked its head to the side to unwrap her bribe. "Treacle. I know you like that one."

Suddenly the formerly cautious guard dog was all flopping tongue and wagging tail, and Daphne laughed as she tossed it the tart.

"If only it were that easy when we're dealing with Mister Snape."

The power of accurate observation is commonly called cynicism by those who have not got it.
~ George Bernard Shaw
Sunday, April 22nd ~ Early Morning

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It wasn't a nightmare, but it was close enough. When Harry woke and turned his head to look at his wife who was sleeping quite peacefully, he knew. It was going to be a not good day judging from the anxiety trying to worm its way out of the pit of what could be called a stomach. Taking a deep breath, Harry forced himself to climb quietly out of bed and not pull Daphne's sleeping form close to reassure himself she and the baby were both alright. Stopping only long enough to pull on some sweats, socks and trainers, he headed out to the workshop.

( Dobby went away with drooping earsCollapse )

Telling Draco
Sunday, April 15th ~*~ Late Afternoon

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It was late afternoon before Daphne was able to get away from work. Since she took Friday off to spend with Harry, she wanted to make up a few hours. She spent the extra time working on her budget to make sure there was enough money coming in to make it possible to give Miguel a raise and let her hire a new assistant manager.

Dobby met her at the door when she got home to take her coat, and Daphne asked where Harry was. After changing her clothes, she wandered outside to the visit the old shack near the back of the property.

"Harry? Dobby said you were out here doing something. We're not going to be cleaning the gutters again, are we?"

First month anniversary - and it's on FRIDAY THE THIRTEENTH!
Friday, April 13th ~ Morning

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When Harry'd checked the calendar for their yearly anniversaries, he hadn't thought to check the monthly ones. Yesterday, the twelfth, he hadn't said anything to Daphne about the upcoming thirteenth, and not because he was afraid she would make fun of him again. He was positive she would.

( Dobby had been happy to help.Collapse )

I could spend my life in this sweet surrender
I could stay lost in this moment forever
Sunday, April 8th ~ Before Daybreak

---

Unable to sleep and not wanting to wake Daphne, Harry had lain awake for what seemed like hours. The light from the moon let him watch her and when a smile or a sigh would penetrate the veil of sleep that held her - he'd wonder what or whom she was dreaming about.

Our son?

Our daughter?

Me?

( When it got to the point he wanted to ask herCollapse )

WWN Broadcast
Friday, April 6th ~ Evening

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"This is Rita Skeeter, standing just outside, around the back, in an alley behind, the Three Broomsticks, where a reception for one of Hogsmeade's former most eligible bachelor's - and his blushing bride - is taking place, to bring you a WWN exclusive."

"Can it, Anastasia, I don't care who got the assignment from the boss, the story is Mine. Keep it up, and I just might forget to take that gag off before I leave. Understand?"

"Now, where was I? Oh, yes, the quicky wedding of hunky recluse and defense school owner, Harry Potter, to restaurateur and frump, Daphne Greengrass occurred weeks ago with almost no fanfare and a tragically small guest list. Once word of the marriage hit the streets, some of the most delicious rumors began to circulate over the mysterious circumstances behind the event."

"Some sources say the couple had been estranged, and were shocked to hear of the wedding when I told them, still others speculated on the need for such a rapid and quiet affair. So far there are no signs of impending motherhood - although the bride has been carrying a few extra pounds for quite some time - but one can't help but wonder if there might be a new member of the Potter family showing up soon."

"What? I said if, they can't sue us for merely voicing some of the public opinion, Anastasia. Stop being such a worrywart."

"As always, ladies and gentlemen, WWN is always interested in the comments and concerns of our listeners. More importantly, if you personally witnessed a sensational bit of scandal, owl me, Rita Skeeter, care of the WWN. The Wizarding Wireless Network now returns you to our regularly scheduled programing."

A baby will make love stronger, days shorter, nights longer, bankroll smaller, home happier,
clothes shabbier, the past forgotten, and the future worth living for.

~ unknown

Wednesday, April 4th ~*~ Evening

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Dobby had taken the carefully prepared picnic basket full of Winky's favorite foods, and happily agreed to disappear for several hours as soon as dinner was served. The table was set in the dining room, candles lit.

Daphne smoothed a loose curl back behind her ear, and moved through the house, making sure everything was just the way she wanted it.

Tonight was important, and she wanted to be special.

A night to remember for the rest of their lives.

She took several deep breaths, reached up to adjust the top of her strapless dress that seemed to fit just a bit tighter than it used to, and headed for the front hall to wait for Harry to come home from work.