Many thanks for your reviews and messages for the previous chapter! And sincere apologies for the delay in the update - writer's block!

Onto the 30th chapter (bloody hell!). It's a long one with a lot of sap and fluff!

Hope you like it :)

Disclaimer: Everything recognisable belongs to JK Rowling. Copyright infringement is unintended.

30. How They Got Their Groove Back Together

"So you and Rose are really not getting divorced?"

Scorpius cringed as he heard the ridicule in his father's voice. Of course what he said now would sound absolutely stupid, given that his parents had heard an entirely different story two days ago.

After a lovely dinner with Rose and Amelia, and being assured that they were on a road to recovery, Scorpius dropped by at his parents' place early in the morning to catch up with them over breakfast and give them the update that he and Rose had patched things up and, no, there wouldn't be any need for his father to look for a suitable match for him.

The immediate reactions from both his parents had been that of relief, but that didn't stop Draco Malfoy from chastising his son for being 'so flaky' about his relationships. He'd gone on about his son's colourful past where he'd dated many women, but hadn't established a relationship long enough to nurture and grow into, making Scorpius squirm uncomfortably.

The claim was rather truthful, wasn't it?

The only woman he'd had any long-term relationship before getting married with was Rose, and that relationship had been platonic.

Mostly, he corrected himself, part-amused, part-melancholic, as he looked back at all those moments (there were a lot, he had realised) in the last fifteen years that could have changed things between them, but he was neither ready to admit his feelings for her, nor act upon them. If only he'd remembered what had happened between him and Rose that eventful night at Enervate - Gods! He would have never let her go!

Given how things had been with Rose ever since they got married, he knew he would have only been happy. But then, maybe the timing also mattered; maybe he and Rose both needed to truly realise their feelings at their own pace for their relationship to fully bloom. They still had work to do, no doubt, but they had their reasons to be optimistic about their future this time.

Scorpius cleared his head to look at his father, who was peering at him curiously over his newly acquired reading glasses, as if awaiting a response.

He must have missed the question.

"Could you repeat that?" Scorpius asked sheepishly.

Draco shot him a disappointed glare over his glasses, and Scorpius winced. It was astounding how he felt like a tiny eleven year old every time his father shot him that look.

"Scorpius, feel free to ignore your father," said Astoria, rolling her eyes, "He thinks the glasses make him look more intimidating and he can't help but overdo his expressions every time."

Draco shot his wife an incredulous look which she simply laughed off.

"He was saying that you should take your time to repair the relationship. It's not easy to bounce back from these things. However, don't hesitate in making grandiose gestures to reaffirm your love for Rose. Something tells me that you have been rather reserved on that part," Astoria's pale blue eyes looked at him knowingly.

"Scorpius, if you are wondering what gestures to make, feel free to ask me," said Draco seriously, folding the newspaper and looking at his son, "We Malfoys may be reserved when it comes to public displays of affection, but we sure know how to fire things up in private. I have a lot to share in that regard-"

Scorpius choked on his tea. The last thing he wanted to hear was how his father seduced his mother in their alone time.

"Dad", he blurted, feeling uneasy, "Thanks, but no -"

"I'd say," said Astoria, looking thoughtful, "Start with something small, and make time for just the both of you. Maybe surprise her with little gifts? A dinner date at home? Or a fancy one? It's important that you make time to spend as a couple and create romance. It's easy to immerse yourself in familyhood and lose sight of what brought the two of you together..."

While he nodded along with whatever his mother said, it struck Scorpius that the two of them never consciously made time just for them, without Amelia. Despite all the time they'd spent together after getting married, they had never gone out on a single date. He supposed this could have been because of the reasons for their marriage and the hesitance in revealing their feelings to each other, but it still felt ridiculous.

He could bring this up with Rose; they could go out on a date - could be good way to restart their relationship.

"You should definitely gift her some nice jewellery," said Draco. And then his eyes suddenly widened, as if he remembered something, "We still have your grandmother's ring. It's a family heirloom - she would have wanted your wife to wear it. You never took it from us, even though we wanted you to use this as the engagement ring or even the wedding ring-"

Something clicked in Scorpius's mind. He could have thought of this before, as a way of declaring his love for Rose, instead of the last minute mushy monologue he'd given before he'd left for his mission. His fingers tingled, his insides suddenly nervous at that idea.

"That would be lovely, really." he said, smiling slowly at his parents, "And there is something else you can help me with."

Scorpius was all kinds of nervous when he opened the door to his house later that evening, the bouquet of roses sitting tight in his hands. He doesn't remember the last time he was this nervous before asking someone out on a date. It even felt more ridiculous, given that the person he was supposed to ask was his wife.

Merlin, he really was a tosser.

Rose had left for Mungo's early morning, and had left him a note on his bedside table, telling him that there was an emergency at work and she had left with Amelia. He had no idea whether the comfortable energy from previous night would sustain into today, and of how to realise whether it was the right time to propose going out on a date.

He smelt warm chocolate in the air, wafting in from the kitchen, and he knew Rose was home.

His nerves came back in full force. He felt hot around the collar and his heart palpitated. He felt his palms getting sweaty.

Fuck, he needed to ask her out before he lost his nerve. He took off his cloak and laid down his bag before heading towards the kitchen, determined to make this happen.

"Rose?" he called out tentatively as he walked into the kitchen. "I need to talk to you about something."

As he walked into the kitchen, he spotted Amelia, who was seated on her high chair, scribbling on a sheet of paper with crayons, while Rose seemed busy at the stove, her back to him.

Something didn't seem right.

After pressing a soft kiss to his daughter, who chose that moment to proudly show him her art creation, squiggles of red and blue, Scorpius turned to Rose, who seemed distracted, because she clearly hadn't heard the commotion behind her.

"Hey. Are you alright?" he asked cautiously. Her shoulders tensed at the sound of his voice, making his heart sink. Did she regret moving in?

She turned around to give him a tired smile. He started on seeing her swollen eyes and red nose; she'd been crying.

And she'd been making what smelled like hot chocolate.

This clearly didn't have to do with him. Something had happened at work.

He quickly came around the kitchen island and gave her the flowers.

"These are for you," he said sincerely, handing them to her. Her eyes lit up just about for a second before the spark died.

"Thank you," she croaked. She definitely sounded low. "This is really sweet of yo-"

"How about I take care of that hot chocolate?" he added quickly, opening his shirt cuffs and rolling them upwards. "You relax."

She shot him a grateful smile. "Thank you so much! I can't seem to get the recipe right. I know it's just hot chocolate - but I just can't seem to fix it! It's so frustrating-"

She looked like she might break down, but within a snap, she straightened up, exhaled deeply and moved to sit with Amelia.

He quietly got to work while he heard Rose working with Amelia to draw a tree. He could hear the hint of the happy animated Rose as she talked to Amelia about the bright green leaves, freshness of the tree. But she wasn't in her true element.

He sincerely hoped whatever was bothering her wasn't as bad as she was making it to be. With a jolt, his mind went to the fellowship; he desperately hoped nothing had happened to that aspect. She was so excited about the training programme; the way she talked his ears off last night just made him realise how badly she had wanted it.

He made sure to melt some cubes of Honeydukes chocolate into the concoction; just the right proportion of the chocolate basis the mood, and the hot chocolate becomes absolute perfection.

As he passed on the mug of the same to Rose, something within him cheered as he saw her face breaking into a very visible smile.

"How do you do this?" she asked, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips, "How do you get the recipe right every time? The chocolate always tastes right."

"Now now," said Scorpius cheekily, "That's a secret. And you can't extract that out of me."

Rose shook her head, amused. "Thanks for this," she said, sounding relieved as she sipped on her hot chocolate, "It's been a rough day."

"You want to talk about it?"

Her expression darkened.

"Two deaths in the ward today." she replied, gritting her teeth, throwing Scorpius off. "It was an absolute nightmare."

Now that he wasn't expecting.

Though Healers were expected to steel themselves in situations of obvious distress, patient deaths always rattled Rose a lot. He remembered the first time he'd seen Rose break down about it, it had been a few weeks before they'd gotten married. It had terrified him and Albus, the latter just having had revealed his plans to propose to Elora.

Scorpius watched her eyes cloud with sadness and he felt his chest ache.

"Let me know if you want to talk about it, alright? I'll take care of dinner." he said, leaning forward to press a brisk kiss to her forehead, surprising her.

She looked up, her eyes and her mouth wide open.

He suddenly felt conscious.

"I hope it's okay - I just felt- " he said uncertainly, his cheeks flushing. Maybe she wasn't ready for any physical contact. "I'm so sorry -"

"No no. It's all good." said Rose just as swiftly, her cheeks flaring up, "I-I just wasn't expecting it. It's - well - it's been a while-"

Scorpius exhaled in relief. It had been an involuntary reaction. He'd been pressing kisses to her for comfort for years. The action belonged to that of a best friend who cared a lot about her, and not exclusively to a husband, "Alright -"

"Can I also get a hug? It's been such a bad day - I can't even-" blurted Rose, blushing so hard that he swore he could feel the heat from across her. She looked at him pleadingly which only melted his insides further.

He rushed to her side and enveloped her in a hug. His heart expanded in delight as he felt Rose tightening her own arms around his waist, her head buried in his chest. Their hugs had worked wonders on him whenever he felt down. So he shouldn't have been this surprised that she craved them too when she felt low.

Even though it wasn't appropriate, given the situation, he was extremely glad that Rose was like this, wrapped up in his arms. There was something so comforting about this gesture that he couldn't help wanting more.

"It was so horrible," came Rose's muffled broken voice from somewhere around his chest, "Though both were terminal and not expected to recover in the long run, their conditions just worsened within minutes, and they just -"

Scorpius felt her tremble in his arms, along with the sound of a sniffle, but he knew she needed this cry. So he stood there as Rose sobbed into his shirt, mumbling things in between.

"They both were tiny girls - so young - full - I could have - it's always - heartbreaking - parents devastated - I mean -"

"I'm confident you did your best, Rose," said Scorpius softly, rubbing her back, "If anything more could have been done, I know you would have taken care of it. You always go the extra mile, Rose. You just do. And that's how I know you gave it your all."

There was silence for a few moments when neither said anything. Scorpius swore Rose could hear his erratic heartbeat as he gently ran his hands up and down her back comforting her.

She finally looked up at him, her hands clinging on to his shirt. "It's astounding how you just know what to do to make me feel better." she said, a smile breaking on her face.

"Well, it helps that I've known you for the better part of my life," grinned Scorpius, trying his hardest to not get distracted by the lack of distance between their lips. "Not to discount the fact that we'll be completing three years of marriage in August."

"Three years?" she gasped, her blue eyes widening in awe. "Wow. Feels like it was yesterday that I'd come over to your flat at night because I was scared about being pregnant and alone..."

Involuntarily, both turned to look at Amelia, who was busy colouring the sheet of paper, her little tongue out in concentration as she picked up the colours she liked and kept running them all over the paper. She paused to look up at her parents and held up the paper proudly to show them her drawing - more green and brown squiggles on the sheet this time.

"This is treee!" she squealed happily before going back to drawing on the sheet.

"That's our girl," Rose sighed happily, and leaned her head against his chest again.

While the intimacy of their hug was something Scorpius was celebrating internally, he realised how his heart skipped a beat at Rose saying 'our'.

She was their little Weasley-Malfoy. They both had created this perfection.

As Rose extracted herself from the hug and turned to him, cheeks still bright red, asking him what he wanted to talk about, he realised that the talk about their date could wait for a while. He simply replied with, "Nothing. Just wanted to know how was your day."

He was more than happy to let things proceed on their own. For now.

The talk about going out on a date may have taken a backseat for Scorpius that evening, but it did not stop him from enjoying the moments of progress in his relationship with Rose over the next couple of days.

While many things had fallen back into routine - getting up, having breakfast together, meeting up at home post work, reading bedtime stories with Amelia, having dinner together, catching up over tea by the fire - there was a new intimacy about these moments that he hadn't anticipated.

Scorpius surmised that it had to do with the awareness of how they felt for each other.

What else was to explain the heated gazes, hitching of his breath, and that quickening of his pulse when their eyes locked or hands brushed or when the distance between them was close enough for Scorpius to note the flecks of dark brown in her sparkling blue eyes?

Those moments with Rose had become pleasantly potent. The butterflies were back, and the heart - oh the poor, poor heart - it just couldn't stop being excited during these times, thumping away to glory.

These moments that arrived in the middle of a conversation, in the middle of a chore, or in the middle of doing nothing really - made the air between them electric. The world around them simply faded away. He'd watch Rose's cheeks redden on their own - one of his favourite traits that he loved on her - and she'd sometime look away demurely. Sometimes she'd hold his stare and bite her lip. Sometime he'd wink back, making her laugh. Sometimes she'd wink back, making him grin widely.

It was fantastic, really.

"Merlin! You both sound like love-struck teens!" said Albus in mild disgust, after he'd dropped by at work one day for a few hours and Scorpius had filled him in on the progress, "Like after you've confessed your feelings for each other and going out, but at the same time taking it slow - but that's good for you both I guess. Although it's just been one week, I'd say things have turned out much better than anticipated, no?"

Scorpius wholeheartedly agreed. Things were certainly improving on the personal front with Rose and it was absolutely much better than he'd expected.

But of course, there was no denying just how much more he wanted.

The same erotic dreams that had haunted him before he and Rose had made their feelings known to each other, were back with a vengeance. And his imagination truly astounded him with the realistic imagery that formed in his head, be it in his dreams, on his bed, or when he was in shower, making him extremely glad that Rose wasn't trained in Legilimency, else she would be absolutely mortified and not speak to him. Or maybe make it a reality.

He was going mad.

But he always tried his best to push aside his hormones for something that really made him happy: spending time with her.

They both were now unconsciously trying to spend more time together, and that cheered his soul more than anything.

Conversing at dinner was becoming his favourite activity to look forward to with Rose; so much so when Rose had back-to-back shifts, and he'd gone over almost two days without properly spending time with her, he'd decided that he'd pop by at Mungo's for a surprise dinner.

Thankfully, he ran into one of Rose's colleagues Roma, whom he'd spotted just as he was getting out of the floo grate. She helped him set up the break room, although reminding him that he had only forty-five minutes before the other healers came in for a break. The look of pleasant surprise on Rose's face when she walked into the break-room and saw a candle lit dinner, absolutely made his evening. Though Albus and Elora walking in thirty seconds later and looking highly amused did kind of dampen his spirits. Apparently, Elora was to be discharged the next day, and Albus just had to stay over for the night.

So a dinner for two had become a snack time for four.

But that didn't take away those special takeaways from the dinner; when he felt Rose's eyes linger on him just a second longer, or spotted the blush that arose on the top of her cheeks on being caught, or those deliberate brushes of their hands as they reached for the same sandwich, or the way her thigh stayed pressed to his the entire time, sending all his blood rushing south.

While that dinner had been rushed, the warm glow he felt within, right down to his marrow, lasted into the morning after.

And surely, in the days followed, the dynamics were changing between him and Rose and both seemed very aware of the same.

She would reach out to touch his arm while addressing him, sometimes staying on his forearm, and sometimes holding on to his biceps. He'd respond with raised eyebrows and a pleased smile while she talked.

He would never hesitate in running his fingers to dust off any food particle, crumb that may have been left on her face while she ate. She'd respond with a furiously blushing face and bright eyes.

He would lean much closer when he'd want to speak softly to her. She would respond with leaning in just as close, sometimes pushing her hair aside that exposed the creamy expanse of her neck, triggering an intense desire of running his lips all over it.

His fingers would absentmindedly graze hers while they watched a movie together on the television. She would respond similarly and deliberately, making him combust in happiness from the inside.

And they were far more open with their compliments, easily slipping into the flirting territory that would leave them both winded and craving for more.

He was absolutely loving the way things were moving forward and he believed they would eventually be fine.

But of course, as has always been the case for their relationship, something needed to happen to propel it forward by a few leaps.

It was one AM in the morning, and Rose was in bed. Yet, she struggled to catch a wink.

Because she had this feeling Scorpius was closing up again.

He had come back early from work today, before she arrived. He'd looked disturbed and rattled just before she'd made her and Amelia's presence felt at home. He'd immediately reacted positively, jumping up from his seat on the couch and embracing Amelia tightly. He'd greeted her with a big grin and a soft "Hey you." But she'd noted that the smile hadn't reached his eyes. And the feeling stayed like that the entire evening.

When she looked at their calendar downstairs in their kitchen, she'd realised that he'd had an appointment with Healer Robinson today, their fourth since they started therapy. The last three times, Scorpius seemed his jovial self after the meeting. But something seemed to have rattled him today.

And she was worried. She told him as much.

He told her to let him work this out on his own, which only made her more anxious.

Scorpius had this habit of wanting to fix big problems in his life independently, which may not have had the best possible results every time, the most recent one being their marriage.

However, she chose to give him time, hoping that if he needed help, he would reach out without any hesitation.

He'd felt a little distant during dinner, sometimes zoning out if neither talked, the glassy look and furrowed eyebrows being a tell-tale sign. He'd even retired to bed early, saying that he wanted an early start to the day. She'd wished him goodnight and had watched him retreat to his room, feeling disappointed that he didn't want to stay.

Things had been moving forward so wonderfully between them ever since she came back. She had felt a slight inhibition in the first two days after the whole Mungo's debacle, his cruel words from the past coming back to haunt her randomly, making her miserable, but she reminded herself of how he took care of her when she was about to have a breakdown, because that is who Scorpius really was. Which is when she decided to move on from the past, especially since she decided to move back in. It wouldn't be fair to Scorpius or herself if she held a grudge while taking initiatives to move forward; that would never be healthy in a relationship.

That decision of hers seemed to change everything between them. Over the past few weeks, they seemed to have that discovered that excitement of exploring something new about each other, yet there was a comfort that simmered underneath all those actions that could be traced back to their near two decade long friendship.

She'd also felt the sexual tension between them escalate day by day; they were always finding reasons to touch each other, they were sitting much closer than they did before, they were openly complimentary with each other. They held each other's gazes for much longer, recognising the desire in them but never acting on it. Sometimes the distance would be just perfect enough for her to able to lean up and kiss him or tilt her head so that their lips could meet, but she was never sure if she should do it now and if they were ready for it. She knew Scorpius was being respectful of the space she wanted, and thus she knew he wouldn't be the first one to make a move either.

Rose groaned in irritation. She needed to sleep and soon. She'd just been tossing and turning the entire night. She'd had crazy work schedules the past few days and that had messed around her sleep schedule.

She decided to heat herself some milk to help her snooze.

Pushing back her covers, she stepped out, tugging down the Slytherin Quidditch jumper she was wearing to her mid thighs. It was when she'd been nearly eight months pregnant when Scorpius had given her his old jumper. She had been running a mood about ballooning up and not fitting into any old clothes anymore and how much she was missing Hogwarts. Scorpius had simply responded by giving her his beloved jumper from Hogwarts. It had been an odd yet touching gesture, given how possessive Scorpius was about his Hogwarts stuff. The jumper smelt incredible and had fit comfortably on her, and she was back to a happy mood, ever thankful to her husband she was slowly developing feelings for again.

Since then, she'd slept in the jumper every once in while, loving the way the cloth material caressed her skin, and being thankful that Scorpius took so much care of it over the years. The jumper reminded her of the simpler times when things were less complicated. It also sometimes bombarded her mind with images of a topless Scorpius doing very naughty things to her that had waking up embarrassed about how much she wanted him.

She ignored her track pants as she headed towards the door, figuring the jumper and her socks were sufficient enough to shield her from the cold while she made a quick trip to the kitchen.

As she walked down the stairs, she realised the kitchen lamps were on, and soon as she turned towards the kitchen, a half-dressed Scorpius came into view. He'd been seated at the kitchen island, holding a cup of tea and looking pensive. But he started on seeing her, his eyes widening on noting her attire.

"Well well. Just when I thought I made Slytherin's Quidditch jumper look good," he said, shooting her a wolfish grin that made her toes curl. She saw his eyes scanning her from head to toe. She suddenly felt too warm despite the cold weather.

"You've seen me in your jumper before." said Rose, trying to sound unaffected by his words or gaze.

"Well, you usually had pants on." he replied cheekily.

Rose cursed under her breath as she felt the familiar heat make its way to her face. Damn him!

"Fancy seeing you here at this time of the night," she said as she walked towards him, trying to subdue the furious blush making its way to her cheeks, "Up for a late night cuppa?"

"Couldn't sleep." he shrugged, the lightness around him disappearing.

Rose observed him. She could sense him regressing into the serious shroud he'd surrounded himself with when she wasn't around.

"Mind if I join you?" she asked, "Couldn't sleep either."

"Be my guest."

Rose headed to the fridge to pull out a bottle of milk and head to the stove to heat it; maybe drinking some warm milk could help with the sleep. She felt her neck heat up as she felt Scorpius's eyes burning into her head from behind.

"Did Zabini ever give you his Quidditch jumper?"

She nearly had a whiplash when she swiftly turned to look at Scorpius. He was looking at her curiously. "Why are we suddenly asking questions about my ex-boyfriend?" she asked, not having heard that name ever since Hogwarts.

Timothy Zabini had been her first boyfriend. He was in the year above theirs, in Slytherin, and they'd dated for over a year till before the summer before Rose's seventh year. Scorpius hadn't been fond of him, often leading to snide remarks which only ended in petty arguments between him and Rose.

"I just want to know. Come on!" he replied, reaching to pat her arm playfully. There was no malice or bitterness in his voice.

"Well, he'd offered," said Rose, sliding into the stool next to Scorpius. She suddenly realised that the hem of the jumper had ridden up. "But as if I would wear it! I was in Gryffindor, and in the Gryffindor Quidditch Team! I would not be caught dead in a green and silver Quidditch jumper."

"What if we'd dated in school? Do you think you would you have worn it?"

She was taken aback. Scorpius discussing them getting together at Hogwarts - this was new.

"I can't even imagine you giving away your jumper back then. You were so attached to it! It was your pride!" she exclaimed incredulously, "Alicia Peterson wanted to don your jumper before one of your matches. And you dumped her the next day."

Scorpius turned pink. "Those two incidents are absolutely unrelated. Now, humour me! Hypothetical situation" he said, "Your dashing boyfriend, this time me, who plays for the rival team, wants you wear his jumper. Would you have worn it?"

"Still wouldn't have have worn it." said Rose honestly, and she sighed internally when she saw Scorpius's smile tighten, "It's a matter of principle, Scorpius. I played for Gryffindor. We had unwritten rules about these things!" She went to the stove to switch off the gas. She continued, feeling her cheeks redden, "I would have preferred something private and personal in Slytherin colours, you know - something that could have been for just me and you."

She heard Scorpius choking into his tea. She exhaled deeply; they were entering that territory again.

"Is that so? What kind of things?" came his response after a few seconds, his voice much deeper and smoother, making her pulse race. Oh she recognised that husky tone alright.

As she poured out the milk in her mug and went back to seat herself next to him, she noted how his eyes had darkened; he was now staring at her unashamedly.

"Oh I don't know," she replied, trying her hardest to sound casual, highly aware of Scorpius's knees grazing her bare ones and his predatory gaze that just about looked ready to devour her. She took a sip, observing him from the top of her mug. "Something more...scanty? Easier to remove?"

She was loving the way he was reacting to words. His jaw tightened and his cheeks flushed pink. She could see him breathing more deeply, if the way his chest was moving underneath his vest was anything to go by. She knew she was getting to him.

"Easy enough to be removed with my teeth?" he whispered, leaning forward. The intensity of the look on his face was making her nerves tingle.

Rose bit her lip, a familiar heat simmering in her nether regions as familiar images flooded her mind. "If I'd allow you to."

Scorpius quirked an eyebrow. "My tongue is very persuasive. You know that."

Her ears were burning hot now; she wouldn't be surprised if any steam escaped from them.

"I guess we'll never know," she said timidly, lowering her eyes to focus on finishing her milk.

"I guess," sighed Scorpius, before he took a large swig off his mug to finish his tea. He put down his mug before turning to her.

"Back in sixth year," he started, running a hand through his hair. Rose could tell he was feeling awkward about asking this, "In our potions class - did you - did you smell anything related to me in Amortentia?"

Rose turned a bright red. That had been an extremely mortifying moment for her.

She'd smelt Scorpius's cologne in the Amortentia swirls while she'd been dating Timothy. It had made her realise a very uncomfortable truth; she was deeply attracted to Scorpius and would remain so for a long time. This truth, compounded with other things, had eventually led to the demise of her relationship with Timothy.

"If your face is anything to go by, I'd say it's a yes." he snorted, sounding very pleased, and Rose only blushed further. She whacked him on his arm, annoyed. He knew the truth about how she had felt for him back in school. He didn't really need to rub it in.

"Did I ever tell you that I'd gotten your scent in Amortentia?" he said quietly, not making eye contact with her. "I'd smelt your shampoo. The mild apple one that you still use."

Rose did a double-take, her jaw dropping.

"I was in denial that I had smelt your shampoo, going as far as convincing myself that it was Erin's scent I had caught." he continued, the back of his neck turning red, while Rose was reeling from this information. "But the shampoo that she used - we talked about this as well - it smelt nowhere close. And all I keep thinking of now is the time gone and the time that could have been with you - we could have been together so much earlier - Gods only if I wasn't such an idiot!"

He growled, and clutched his head between his hands.

"Oh come on, that's not fair!" she exclaimed, getting up from her seat and wrapping her arms around him from behind, resting her cheek against his back. He placed his arms on top of hers, pressing them against his chest. "We both were stupid about that. Maybe things would have been different had either of us come forward. But the truth we both need to face is that we are together, here, now. And we have a whole future in front of us. So let's focus on that, yeah?"

"Yeah, you're right." he responded solemnly. He took a moment to kiss her hands softly, before pressing them back tightly against his chest.

"Is everything really alright, Scorp?" asked Rose worriedly, rubbing her cheek affectionately against his back. His muscles tensed underneath her cheek. "You were distracted earlier on - and then this throwback into school life - did something happen at the session today? Is there something I should know?"

She heard him exhale deeply.

"Come here," he mumbled softly. He brought her hands around him, and turned so that they were face to face and he had her hands in his.

She waited, her heart hammering. His pale blue eyes looked worried, as if ashamed about something.

"I had a deep-dive with Robinson today, and I realised that I am not ready to go back into the field for active duty. I-I am not s-sure if I ever will be."

What?!

Rose felt something plummet inside her. She nodded at him, silently begging him to keep talking.

He continued, his voice cracking. "I'm terrified of what's out there, Rose. Hell, I am terrified of loud noises. Just last night before dinner, Amy and I were in the kitchen - you were taking a bath. She was in her high chair and she accidentally dropped a cup from the counter. I dropped onto the floor as a reaction - I fucking dropped to the ground - and all of a sudden I could smell the stench of my burning flesh, I could feel the pain, I could hear the explosion and the cries -" he choked, his eyes reddening. The grip on her hands was tight, as if worried she might walk away from him.

"Has this happened before?" she asked softly, feeling a painful twang in her chest, and he nodded.

She needed to be calm and suppress the panic that suddenly arose within her. She had to be calm.

"In the initial days after waking up at Mungo's. Then it was fine for a couple of days once I came back home. It was still under control when you and Amy weren't here - the pain of losing you wiped out everything. But since the therapy started, it's started up again. Robinson had warned me about this before starting therapy, and now he says it'll subside on its own. Unfortunately, all this had to happened just when were getting our life on track. Everything's been so wonderful and great, Rose. I am so happy! It has been the same for you as well, right?" he asked despairingly.

"Of course!" she cried, holding on to him just as desperately, "Everything has been perfect! It's going so well"

"Okay," he nodded, looking reassured. Then his face fell. He spoke, "I'm planning to speak to Ron about me handling the administrative work, work as a civilian. The work is terrible, and I despise it. But I can't just quit the Auror department. I love it so much-"

"What about taking a break?" Rose found herself saying. "Maybe retire for a few months, continue with therapy and rejoin services when you can."

"I may have to start from scratch to become qualified as an on-field Auror. It took me two additional years on top of the basic Auror training. It's the same with moving into the civilian role, so might as well take on the alternative," he said grimacing. He sighed long and hard and looked at her sadly. "Besides, what will I do after taking a break? Can't leave my mind empty, that'll make the trauma worse."

"You could come with me to Switzerland." suggested Rose, biting her lip. Scorpius's eyes widened. He opened his mouth to reply, she continued hurriedly "I know, I know it's three long months, would be too big a break, especially given how sensitive things are. But it could give you space from all those sadistic whispers at the Ministry. It would be a great change of scenery, you could regroup at your own pace. At the risk of sounding presumptuous, you'll be with me and Amy. Plus the chocolate in the mountains are fantastic." she finished with a small smile.

Scorpius let out a deep laugh that she felt in her chest. He suddenly looked very amused, a complete one-eighty from his mood minutes ago, which made her heart do happy skips.

"Admit it, you wanted to go there just for the chocolates, right?" he teased, tugging at her locks now, pulling her closer. It was astounding how the air between them changed within seconds. "Ickle Rosie and her love for chocolates. Shall the love remain eternal"

"One of many reasons!" exclaimed Rose, rolling her eyes. Scorpius chuckled and then sobered up, looking awkward.

"I suppose I'm not that cool enough for you now," he said softly, looking sheepish, but she could sense the sadness in his voice. "I'm not that swashbuckling Auror anymore, not that successful Slytherin Quidditch player anymore, not the Head Boy anymore. If that wasn't enough, my face is scarred, hell, I have scars all over, and am going through PTSD. Sure you still want to be with me?" he said in a supposedly light voice, but she felt the unspoken fear that was simmering underneath those words - of not feeling that he was good enough and that he won't be loved enough.

Clearing her throat, she said firmly, "Scorpius Malfoy. Get this in your head or get it tattooed. I fell in love with you because of what you had in here." she poked him on the left side of his chest, causing him to let out an 'ow'. "You're so much more than all what you mentioned. Remember that" she pinched his nose, making him wince, and causing him to swat his hand at her. She then softened her stance and looked deep into his eyes. "And just when I didn't think it was possible, I know I love you more now."

"Yeah?" said Scorpius, his expression turning soft.

"Yes, you complete idiot!"

Rose wrapped her arms around his neck and hugged him tight. He responded by wrapping his arms around her waist, bringing her body flush against his seated form, and sinking his face in her hair. Something expanded within her, as if the floodgates had opened and the emotions just tumbled out, one after the other, overwhelming her and pricking her eyes. She loved this prat so much!

"Rose?" she heard him, his voice muffled against her hair.

"Hmm?"

"You're brilliant. Thank you for being so."

Rose smiled in his arms. "You're welcome," she replied softly, dropping a kiss to his bare shoulder. She felt him stiffen in her arms and she wondered if she should have done that.

"I am very sorry for everything I put you through. I haven't said it enough, and probably never will be enough, but I really am sorry." he said, his voice soft and loving in her ears. She could feel goosebumps erupt all over her flesh.

"I know you are," she said breathlessly. She was suddenly aware of his fingers that were drawing patterns on her lower back. She was standing between his legs and her bare legs were brushing lightly against his coarse woolen of his pajamas. She could sense his heart rate picking up pace.

Oh boy.

"Rose?" came his strangled voice, his breath hot on her neck. Her knees almost gave away; she was terribly glad she had her arms around his shoulders.

"Hmm?" she responded, absolutely distracted by his breath skimming her neck teasingly. His hands were now flat against her lower back, almost burning onto her skin through the sweater.

If he asked if he could kiss her, she wasn't going to say no. In fact, she was going to pull back and -

"Go out on a date with me?"

Rose froze.

"Wait what?" she breathed in disbelief as she pulled back from the hug. Had she misheard him? Did he really ask her out on a date?

"Go out on a date with me, Weasley?" he asked softly, curving his hand around her jawline, tracing her cheeks, "You, me, out somewhere with some nice food, maybe a little bit of dancing, music, all in all a splendid evening for the both of us. What do you say?"

Somewhere inside her, a twelve-year old Rose Weasley was weeping with joy. She'd waited for this moment, this moment of her stupid best friend Scorpius Malfoy, asking her out on a date, for years.

The twenty-six year old Rose Weasley, however, was rendered speechless for the time being. She was staring at Scorpius with her lips parted open, while he looked at her expectantly, awaiting her answer. He looked equally nervous, as if he couldn't believe he'd done that.

Slowly, it seemed, warmth started spreading everywhere in her body, happiness bursting like explosions everywhere. It finally sunk in, what he had asked.

They may have been married for two years, and it may even seem silly but things like going out on dates mattered, mattered so much. She hated herself for not coming up with this on her own ever since they made their feelings known to each other, but it was better late than never.

And not to forget - it would be their first ever date.

Merlin's balls!

"Yes. Yes! YES!" she almost shrieked and then turned pink, making Scorpius laugh. Was she making her enthusiasm too obvious?

Oh to hell with it. They were married. He could know how excited she was about going out on a date with him.

"Don't be embarrassed, my love," said Scorpius smugly, waggling his eyebrows, "I know I am irresistible."

Maybe not.

"Oh shut up!" said Rose, nudging him. After a second's pause, "So when do you want to go?"

A handsome smile made its way to Scorpius's face, which made her flush with pleasure. "We can do tomorrow night?"

"How about Saturday night?" said Rose quickly, as she quickly recalled all possible scenarios that may come up, "Who knows what'll come up tomorrow night or day after? On Friday night, we'll most likely have Potter Jr's housewarming. So Saturday night? I'm off on this weekend."

"Saturday night sounds perfect." grinned Scorpius, "And I'll take you out. It will be a great night."

"Okay." she breathed, her mind buzzing with possibilities.

"Okay." he replied just as softly.

They stood in the embrace, soaking in this moment and cementing it in their memory. This was a big step for them.

Scratch big - a HUGE leap for them.

"So, Miss Weasley," started Scorpius casually, tugging her closer. His hands were firm on her hips, his thumbs rubbing in circles, "Did you ever fantasise about this moment? Of me asking you out at Hogwarts?"

"You're really having a lot of fun with the Hogwarts memories, aren't you?" asked Rose, shaking her head in amusement.

"That means a yes. Want to tell me a little more about it? We could fulfill it." he replied, looking at her knowingly.

Rose's toes curled in her socks. "After this, you'd walk me to the Gryffindor tower where we'd bid our goodbyes." she said, feeling bashful, aware of how close they were. She could count his pale eyelashes. His wasn't the only heart that was racing now.

"I see. Would be a shame if we don't make it a reality, seeing that I just asked you out and you said yes." he said huskily, looking at her as she was his entire universe, which she was, she realised, making her smile.

Scorpius got up and enveloped her right hand in his left one.

"Come on." he said, shooting her a lopsided grin and pulling her arm. "I should walk you to your dorm, Weasley."

She almost melted on the spot. How was he so sweet?

She tried her best to hide the wide grin and calm her racing heart as he led the way up the stairs to their rooms.

Her hand was warm in his, her heart was in her mouth. This felt absolutely surreal.

They crossed his and Amelia's room to reach hers at the end of the hallway.

She exhaled deeply as he stopped and she walked towards the door. She turned around to say goodnight and realised the lack of distance between them. She looked up coyly, breathing a little faster now.

He looked aware of the impact he had on her if the smirk on his face was anything to go by. He bent his head down to meet her eye level and said softly, "Looks like someone is super nervous about the date. I know it'll be hard for you to resist me. Are you worried about that? Are you worried about not being able to keep your hands off me?"

Her lips twisted up into a smirk. "I think you should be more worried about what would happen when I don't keep my hands off you." she replied, gathering her hair to one side and looking straight at him.

Scorpius's eyes nearly popped out.

"I see," he said, his voice smooth and silky, sounding extremely pleased, "I guess we shall find out on Saturday night."

"That we will," responded Rose confidently, drawing herself to her full height.

Something flashed in Scorpius's eyes and he nodded at her. He cleared his throat, "Going to head back to my room now, Weasley. Sure you don't want to warm the bed with me? We'll welcome the morning in the sweetest way possible."

Rose blushed red and pursed her lips tight to hold back her grin, but she didn't stand back down.

"Goodnight Scorpius," she said, trying to sound nonchalant when all she wanted to do was squeal in happiness. She moved back into her room and leaned against the doorframe, "Sweet dreams."

"With you in them, they are more like spicy," grinned Scorpius, waggling his eyebrows.

"Seriously, Malfoy. Get some sleep." she said, rolling her eyes and moving to close the door.

"Night, Weasley." he drawled, craning his neck, as if to see as much of her as possible before the door was completely closed.

As soon as she heard the door lock click in, and Scorpius's laughter on the other side of the door, she giggled. Hard.

As she moved into her bed and rolled up the comforter, she realised that she hadn't been this happy in a very long time.

It soothed her heart even further when she realised that this was just the beginning of everything she ever wanted.

Rose loved her family gatherings. Not the ones with just her parents and Hugo. But the classic Weasley gathering.

Christmas had been rather sombre with Albus and Teddy being injured and Scorpius being hospitalised, but today everyone, meaning everyone, had turned up at Harry Potter's house to welcome the newest generation of Potters into the world. It had been precisely three weeks since the little boy was born and it was time for him to meet his family.

The house was packed with people, a lot of chattering, with food and alcohol was flowing everywhere.

Among a sea of redheads, Rose spotted her father in a corner in a deep conversation with Scorpius. Ron then shook his head at something and clapped Scorpius on the back.

Scorpius's eyes abruptly found hers and she felt herself flush as he winked at her, before he turned back to speak to her father.

She placed her hand on her racing heart and exhaled deeply.

They had a date tomorrow night. Like a proper date. Not with Amelia. Not in the house.

It was a date date. The kind of date first dates sometimes are made of.

Rose's heart fluttered. She was extremely nervous. She hadn't been on a date in years.

And now she was going out on a date with Scorpius.

Who also happened to be her husband.

But still!

Numerous questions were swirling in her head.

How would the date go?

Will it be awkward given that they are already married?

And what about after the date?

Her face coloured at the possibilities. It could really go any way they wanted.

"Rose, are you alright?"

Startled at Scorpius's voice, she cleared her head to spot him standing right next to her, looking at her concernedly. She realised he had his hand on her arm and his thumb was making soothing patterns on it.

Oh I am definitely not alright.

Rose nodded, causing him to chuckle. He bent his head low to her ears and whispered silkily, "It's okay. I know I leave you speechless."

Flustered by the smug tone in his voice, she smacked his arm and moved forward towards Albus, who seemed to be getting ready to make an announcement. Elora was next to him with the baby, and were surrounded by many others trying to meet the child. Amelia was currently playing in her great grandparents' arms, with Arthur Weasley blowing out bubbles using a muggle contraption and Amelia trying to burst them as Molly Weasley looked on lovingly.

Within seconds, it seemed, Scorpius caught up with her. He looked sheepish as he said, "If it makes you feel any better, the effect you have on me is no less."

Rose chuckled. "Prat!" she said softly as she elbowed him affectionately. He grinned back at her.

Just then Albus raised a glass and tapped it gently with a spoon, silencing everyone.

"Thank you so much, all of you, for coming in today." he said, beaming brightly at his family, "I can't tell you how much it means to me that you're all here. The last three weeks had been trying and terrifying, to say the least, but thanks to all your prayers, Elora and I were able -"

"Screw the introduction and tell us what you've named my nephew!" yelled out James boisterously. Ginny smacked him upside his head.

"YEAH!" roared Fred Weasley, laughing, "Can't believe how secretive this has been! Even the stories about Uncle Harry's adventures were known to the world much faster than the name of the new Potter kid known to his family."

"Lovely," said Albus, looking deadpanned. He then turned to his wife. "Elora, would you do the honours?" he asked softly. Elora simply flipped her hair and moved forward.

Rose heard Scorpius let out a snort behind her. She herself hid a smile behind her hands.

Albus and Elora two were quite theatrical when together. The way they had announced their engagement was no less - getting into a loud pretend-fight at a family gathering and then Elora claiming that the hidden rock on her finger would cause quite a dent on his face if he doesn't stop talking.

"Everyone," started Elora, breaking into a huge grin. The bundle in her arms moved, and Rose spotted two pink hands peering out of the bundle, "Say hello to Frank James Potter."

Oh!

Rose broke into a huge smile as there was a collective gasp of recognition. She spotted Neville Longbottom, who was standing just behind Elora, well up. His wife wrap her hands around him, beaming widely. James Potter looked stunned, being speechless for a change.

"We wanted to honour grandfather," said Elora, turning to smile at her father, who gave back a watery smile. Harry was standing next to Neville and Hannah, looking extremely proud.

"And," added Albus, who was smiling widely, "We felt that the eldest in a generation in the Potter family should be a James. And it can't be ignored how my idiotic brother really stepped up when Frank was about to be born. Sorry Jamie, but you can't name your own unfortunate off-spring James now. Your name is taken for this generation-"

A round of laughter rang in the crowd at that statement, but no one was ready to see an emotional James rush towards Albus and envelop him in a tight hug and muttering 'thank you'.

There was laughs and whistles at this unexpected display of affection between two brothers who were known for their constant bickering and leg-pulling.

"Well," exclaimed Scorpius, looking surprised at the scene in front of him, "This was surprising."

Rose felt herself well up at the sight in front of her, where the all the cousins were now joining Albus and James for a hug.

Not just surprising, it was perfect.

Wild party, huh?," said Roxanne, sipping on her wine as she observed her surroundings, "You'd think this is a Christmas gathering - overcrowded room, noise food, wine - even Teddy and Vicky are here with the entire family!"

"Oh shush! They were there at Scorpius's party as well! Besides, Vicky is Al's cousin. And Teddy is practically a Potter, like Al's elder brother-" Rose pointed out.

"That didn't stop you from fancying him," she finished, making kissing faces and laughing.

Rose grimaced. That evening when James Potter found the poem she'd written for Teddy was a big black blot in her life so far.

Her eyes swept the scene. The house being called crowded was an understatement. An Extension Charm placed by her mother had surely helped increase the size of the living room, but there were just so many of her relatives under one roof.

Rose found her eyes drawn to her brother, who was in an animated discussion with Lily, who looked much brighter and livelier than she last remembered.

She frowned. While Lily and her had discussed things, Rose knew it'll be time before they are more comfortable around each other.

But should she go and say hi? Or just keep the distance?

Just as Rose was pondering over this dilemma, then the front door opened and her uncle Percy walked in, apologising profusely for coming in late for he was busy attending a meeting with the Belgian Prime Minister.

"Uncle Percy is here. This is officially a Weasley Holidays celebration!" snorted Roxanne next to her, but Rose was already distracted. She had noted the way Lily had jumped up and craned her neck the moment the door had opened and the disappointed look on her face when she realised it was their Uncle Percy.

Was she expecting someone else when everyone, including Dominique, was here under this roof?

"Mind if I steal my wife for a moment?"

Rose started as she heard Scorpius's voice next to her.

"Be my guest," grinned Roxanne, tipping her wine glass towards him, "Needed to catch up with Molly & Lucy anyway."

Saying this, she disappeared in the crowd.

Exhaling, Rose turned to face Scorpius, who looked rather nervous. He looked at her drink and snorted.

"Orange juice?" he asked, raising his eyebrows.

"Yeah." said Rose sadly, "Skipping the wine. Just the thought makes my stomach lurch. Anyway, what's up?" she finished, looking up at him expectantly.

"Does that offer of Amy and me coming with you to Switzerland still stand?" he asked slowly, looking curiously at her.

Rose's jaw dropped. This she hadn't been expecting.

"Is - it would be great - are you c-considering it?" she spluttered, "For three months? For real? Like you actually want to come and stay with me?"

"Yeah. Ever since you mentioned it that night - I can't stop thinking about it," he said, running a hand through this hair, "You are right; it can be the break that I need to get back on my feet. I spoke to Healer Robinson yesterday and he too felt that it would be beneficial to stay away from work. Sessions, he said, could be scheduled accordingly -"

"Are you serious about this?" trilled Rose. This was unbelievable! "You really want to come along?"

"Yes. And -," Scorpius hesitated for a moment, and then continued, his cheeks turning pink, "I just got you back, Rose. I can't imagine three whole months without seeing you or hearing your voice next to me. I really want to come along. But I also want to know if you'd really be okay with that-"

"Gods! Yes!" Rose exclaimed before jumping up to wrap her arms around his neck tightly, silently thanking all her stars for making this happen.

Scorpius laughed in response, the deep rumble from his chest reverberating in hers. He returned her hug, lifting her off her feet before pressing a kiss to the side of her head.

Rose sighed at the beauty of this moment. Could things get any better?

She realised the crowd around her was becoming silent. She untangled her arms immediately, feeling awkward, with Scorpius setting her down.

Had they put on a show for everyone?

But just as her feet touched the ground and she looked around, she realised everybody was not looking at them, but towards the door, where a new guest had appeared.

She spotted a familiar, golden haired face, holding a gift bag and looking petrified at the sight of so many people staring at him.

"You've got to be kidding me," muttered Scorpius in disbelief. Unable to absorb the scene in front of her, Rose turned to look at Lily. She looked just as stunned, but also had a huge smiled plastered on her face.

So that's the guest she was waiting for.

To Rose's huge surprise (and shock), Albus cleared his throat and walked forward to greet the guest.

"Ryan!" he said amiably, extending his hand, "Glad to see you making it to the party!"

Rose saw Ryan Smith take a nervous gulp as he tore his eyes away from the crowd to look at Albus and shake his hands.

"Thanks for inviting me," replied Ryan, sounding nervous. He suddenly seemed to remember what was in his hand, "And this is for your baby boy - Yeah. That's that."

Wait. Albus invited him?

Lily had now moved closer to the door but seemed to be staring at Albus in confusion. Albus only shot her a wink in response.

"So you guys are like friends now?" came Fred Weasley's voice, shrouded in incredulity. James was staring at Lily, Albus, and Ryan with narrowed eyes.

"Just about tolerating him," announced Albus, smirking. He then turned to Ryan. "Why don't you come in? Have a drink and meet everyone"

Rose felt very confused at the moment. She turned to look at Scorpius, hoping he'd have some idea about what Albus had in mind. He, however, was looking just as confused. Their best friend was sometimes such a mystery.

Ryan was finally in front of Lily and they beamed at each other. Rose noted how he instantly relaxed as Lily looped her arm around his and took him to meet her parents, who were looking back at them uncertainly. Albus was now being hounded by James and Fred, who were whispering furiously.

Rose could tell the talk was nothing kind.

Soon, chatter broke around them, everyone shooting furtive glances at Ryan and Lily; some were excited ("Can I get Ryan's autograph, Maman?" said Dora, looking at Victoire pleadingly), some were curious, ("I think I have seen him somewhere," said Audrey Weasley pensively) and some were hateful ("How dare he have the nerve to come here?" sneered Louis, looking livid).

"Let me go in before Al gets pummeled," sighed Scorpius, leaving her side to help Albus deal with James and Fred, whose actions were getting more animated by the minute.

Rose spotted Ryan looking terrified as he shook hands with Harry and Ginny. Lily had the brightest smile on her face, as if all her dreams had come true. Harry and Ginny both looked guarded as they spoke to Ryan, but not unwelcoming.

She then heard a snigger next to her. She turned to see her father looking highly amused, while her mother, who was standing next to him, tried to shush him.

"Quiet Ron!"

"I remember Harry being awfully smug about Malfoy becoming my in-law. And now Zacharias Smith might be his. This is BRILLIANT!"

Rose bit back laughter and she could see her mom trying to do the same.

"We mustn't be like this!"

"-and remember how he'd been teasing you about how you'd slapped your in-law. Ginny landed a Bat-Bogey Hex on hers!"

"Easy on the enthusiasm, Ronald Weasley!", said Hermione, who was laughing lightly, despite herself.

"Sure! But Hermione - look at how things came around! How the turntables!"

"You mean how the tables turn-"

"That's not what that Muggle TV show we watched the other day said-"

Rose chuckled at her dad's obvious glee about the Potters potentially becoming related to the Smiths through marriage.

How the turntables, indeed.

After a well-rounded evening filled with family love and delicious food, Rose felt ready to leave for home.

The evening seemed to have turned out much better for Ryan than Rose had thought it'd proceed. All the cousins had ended up cornering Ryan and Lily together and interrogated them. At the end, Dominique had sworn that if he hurt Lily, she'd peel his skin manually with her fingernails. James had casually mentioned that he was Harry Potter's eldest born and his namesake had a legacy, so naturally any part of Ryan would not live to see the sun the day he decided to hurt Lily.

Ryan came forward and clarified that this was no charade, he'd grown up, and he wanted to be with Lily and that he would never hurt her. Maybe his sincerity had gotten through to some of the family members for they were cordial enough to make Ryan comfortable for rest of the party.

Most of the people had already left now; Rose had stayed back to catch up with Albus ("Yup. I had invited Ryan. Lily had invited him but he'd reached out to me to know if it was okay if he came by. James's and Fred's expressions were everything!"). Frank was already asleep in his crib. Her parents were conversing with Albus's and Elora's parents, as if reminiscing old times. James was busy compiling some food and speaking to Scorpius. Elora was speaking to Ryan and Lily, who were getting ready to leave. Albus excused himself from Rose to say goodbye to his sister and Ryan.

Rose felt a wave of calm taking over her as she observed Lily and Ryan saying their goodbyes and turning towards the door to make their exit. Ryan's eyes suddenly caught hers and her breath hitched.

A small smile made its way to his face and he nodded at her as if saying goodbye. She nodded back at him.

And then he left with Lily, hand in hand.

"Umm. Just a reminder, your husband and the father of your child is standing here."

Rolling her eyes, she turned to face Scorpius, who was now holding Amelia and looking at her with narrowed eyes.

And then his face broke into a grin.

Prat!

"I'll be heading to my parents' now," said Scorpius, "Had told them that I'd come over for a bit - they wanted me to look at something. They also wanted to wanted to meet Amy - so taking her along."

"Alright," said Rose, "I'll see you at -"

She scrunched her face as she smelt something violating her senses. The nauseating smell was coming closer now.

"What's the matter?" asked Scorpius.

She turned around quickly in the direction of the smell to see James Potter approaching her with the offending food item - a hot dog

What on earth had he added to that to make the food so revolting?

"Want a bite?" James asked warily, now looking carefully at her expression.

She nearly gagged at the idea of having a hot dog at that moment.

"Keep that away from me. Smells awful!" said Rose snappily, feeling the food she'd had tonight make its way up her throat.

"Get your smelling sense tested!" snapped James, "You and Al used to love it when I made James's special hot dog when we were kids. James's special hot dog is absolutely delicious."

Scorpius grimaced, "You know, you really shouldn't call it that if you want someone to try it out."

"Why not?"

Rose and Scorpius merely shook their heads, not really keen on getting into a pointless argument with James.

"So, I'll see you at home, alright. Also, I spoke to Al about babysitting Amelia for tomorrow night." said Scorpius, his eyes gleaming.

"Okay." said Rose, feeling a little breathless, excited at the prospect of what tomorrow would bring.

He squeezed her hand reassuringly and shot her a cheeky wink before he left, making her flush pleasurably.

Tomorrow night held a lot of promises.

And it could not come any slower.

James had now finished the revolting hot dog and was staring at her curiously.

"What?" asked Rose, suddenly self-conscious, running a hand over her hair.

"Is it just me or do you look pudgier?"

"JAMES!" exclaimed Rose indignantly.

"Seriously, either your blouse has shrunk, or you've grown bigger - you were wearing this same blouse like a month ago, and it did not seem so tight. Let your tatas breathe Rose! Weight gain is natural - your clothing should be loose so that your body can breathe."

"Maybe, you should stop talking before I knock your teeth loose." said Rose, rolling her eyes, making a move towards the hallway to pick up her bag and coat before she left the Potters' home.

"Now now Rosie. Let's keep that temper under control," laughed James. Suddenly his eyes widened, his lips upturning into a smirk, "Maybe there's a bun in the oven that's inflating you, after you and Scorpius had some hot and heavy sex on getting back together. Maybe another little Malfoy is on its way."

Rose's face coloured. James really didn't know how far off from truth he really was.

"Bugger off!" she replied, throwing him a dirty look. He really couldn't let go of the night at Mungo's when she and Scorpius almost hooked up.

James was just being ridiculous. How can she be pregnant?

Why not?

The voice in her head startled her. The thought was ridiculous.

There were mutliple reasons why that wasn't possible.

She and Scorpius couldn't conceive anymore. They'd last had sex over six weeks ago.

And since then, she'd had her -

No, wait.

She hadn't had her period since then.

Panicking, she quickly counted back to her last cycle.

She was four weeks late. A month late.

She'd had officially skipped her period.

Rose felt her pulse race.

Okay, there was no need to come to conclusions. She'd had irregular cycles during times of extreme stress - fifth year before the O.W.L.s, during her healer exams, and what happened in last few weeks had been stressful for sure, there was no reason to assume that was pregnant.

But then -

She was craving a lot of ciabatta, just like last time.

She did not like the smell of hot dogs. She'd developed a severe abhorrence for hot dogs during her last pregnancy.

And was James right? Had she put on weight? Had her breasts grown bigger?

Counting the numbers, she realised that she'd had sex with Scorpius around the time around the time of ovulation.

Could it-?

But then Waltham had said that Scorpius's medicines would make him infertile. Right?

RIGHT?

Rose rushed out of the house, breathing deeply. She needed some air.

After stopping by at a muggle pharmacy store on her way back, she picked up a pregnancy kit, almost ridiculing herself for overthinking things. But she tried to justify the purchase as just to give her mind some mental peace. She did not need this confusion, especially with everything that had happened recently.

Back home, she quickly dropped a note in Scorpius's room about not feeling well and retiring earlier, and rushed to her room to try out the pregnancy kit.

She tossed in her bed, nervous and scared about the test.

She suddenly heard Scorpius's voice outside few minutes later, probably from the living room. She'd heard his footsteps in the hallway outside, and figured he was putting Amelia to bed. She prayed he didn't stop by by her room.

Just when she was about to relax and go to the bathroom to complete the test, she heard him knock on her bedroom door.

"Rose, can I come in?" she heard him say, sounding worried.

She sighed and walked up to the door. She couldn't block him out like that, not after what all they'd been through.

She opened to the door to see Scorpius frowning. He moved in closer, but Rose didn't move away from the door frame. The last thing she wanted to do was have a full-blown conversation with him. She was already a wreck and didn't want to make it worse.

"Are you alright? You look a bit peaky." he asked, his voice so soft and concerned that it almost broke her resistance.

Her insides were wringing nervously, making her feel very jumpy. At the same time, she just wanted Scorpius to wrap his arms around her.

"Just very tired," Rose sighed, rubbing her forehead, "My hormones are all over the place. It's exhausting."

"You take too much stress, my love," he said, shaking his head. He gently cupped her face and pressed a small kiss to her forehead, "You really need a break. You've been working tirelessly since those deaths happened."

"It's not that," hissed Rose, and Scorpius's eyes widened.

"Is there something else?" he asked, his eyebrows furrowed. "You can tell me, Rose."

Rose gaped at him, while another train of thoughts started running through her head.

Was Scorpius going to become a father again? Was Amelia going to have a sibling?

Was she overreacting?

Should she tell him now? Or should she wait till she confirms the result after a check-up from Mungo's?

"I am just going to sleep. Just too tired." finished Rose, sighing, "Maybe visit Mungo's in the morning to get myself checked."

Scorpius didn't look convinced, but he dropped the argument. "I also have to head to work tomorrow, first half. But I'll be back in time for the big date we have tomorrow."

Just mentioning the date improved her spirits immensely. He shot her a wolfish grin, and leaned forward to kiss her nose.

"Night," he whispered, his lips so close to hers. His eyes looked so hopeful and happy as they bored into hers that she felt like crying.

"Goodnight," she replied, tucking her hair behind her ears. She watched as he walked away, and soon as he was in his room, she closed her door and rushed to the bathroom to get done with the stupid test.

She was really overthinking things. She definitely wasn't pregnant. It was ridiculous, the present conditions didn't make it likely. She couldn't be pregnant.

An hour later, she was clutching the pregnancy stick in disbelief, the tiny positive sign on the display screen saying otherwise.

Oh boy.

We did see this coming, didn't we? Congratulations to all those who'd been pointing it out in their reviews and messages. Tee-hee. James is such a gem, I'm telling you!

Family introductions for Ryan and Lily - things seem to getting rather serious for them, aren't they?

And yay to Scorpius and Rose going out on their first proper date! How do you think that'll go? What do you think it'll be about?

Let's see how the next one shapes up - excited to write it out. Please pray that I get done with it much sooner than I finished this one.

Stay safe, be brave. Times are tough, humanity is what can save us.

Lots of Love & Wishes,

WeasleyKingRocks