A/N: Hello! So we have reached the end, and I am so very thankful to those of you who have been here for this story! I am so thankful to all of you who left reviews and encouraged me to keep going. Also a gigantic thank you to The Muse of Apollo for being such an awesome Beta! I hope you enjoy the epilogue and be on the lookout for some companion one-shots later down the road!
Chapter 15
What My Dreams Are Made of
Summer 2011
"C'mon, Livie, hurry up."
"Wait for me! I'm comin!"
"Hush you two, you'll wake Mum and Dad."
Harry cracked one eye open and saw his wife lying next to him, feigning sleep. He closed his eyes once more before grunting out, "your children are up and being sneaky."
He heard a muffled snort from Hermione's side of the bed.
"My children? The fact that they're so sneaky is a massive indicator that those children are yours."
Her voice was low and still slightly muffled by her pillow. He reached over and wrapped an arm around her waist to drag her into his arms.
"Nope, we agreed that anytime they get up before eight in the morning, they're yours."
She huffed indignantly before looking up to see his cheeky grin. She raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed.
"Did we now? I don't recall this agreement," she said as she snuggled into him, stealing his warmth.
"It was in our vows."
"Oh whatever, you're ridiculous Harry Potter," she said as she smacked his chest and rolled her eyes.
Harry just laughed and pulled her in closer, hoping to get a few minutes of uninterrupted time before the kids realized they were up.
"Ridiculously good looking?" He asked while wiggling his eyebrows.
She groaned, "Oh Merlin…"
He sent her a lopsided grin and she leaned up for a good morning kiss.
"Good morning, Mrs. Potter."
"Good morning."
It wasn't long after, that they heard the whispers start up again.
The door creaked open and Hermione closed her eyes, Harry smiled and followed suit.
"Shh Liam, Mummas sleepin," Olivia whispered.
"I heard them taking Livie, they're just pretending," Liam said.
Harry could hear his two youngest children tiptoeing to the end of the bed and it wasn't long before he felt the mattress dip.
He cracked an eye open to see Olivia crawling up the bed to climb on top of her mother.
William followed his sister and, seeing his daddy awake, crawled to lay on top of him as well.
"Good morning Daddy!" Liam said softly.
"Morning kiddo, sleep well?"
Liam smiled and nodded.
"Good," Harry said before he kissed his little boy's forehead, and looked over at his little girl.
Olivia hugged her mum and then placed her tiny hands on her Hermione's cheeks.
"Mummy, it's wake up time...the sun is shining!"
Harry smiled, Olivia was their early bird and was always happy to wake everyone else up.
Hermione smiled and scooted over a bit before pulling Livie off of her to lay between them. She wrapped her arms around the little girl and pulled her into her chest.
"But Liv, Mumma is still sleepy. Let's have a lie in," Hermione tried to convince her daughter.
"No, no, no Mumma!" Olivia said in a sing-song voice before exclaiming, "we maked you breakfast!"
Hermione's eyes shot up to Harry's and they both looked at their daughter.
"Oh? What did you make us, love?" Hermione asked.
"Oh, don't worry Mummy! Jack made toast and we just got out the marmalade," Liam answered.
The two adults breathed a sigh of relief and Harry sat up, dropping a quick kiss to Liam's crown as the boy crawled off the edge of the bed.
He pulled Olivia into his arms and peppered her face with kisses while she squealed and giggled.
"Well, I suppose we had better get down to the kitchen before Papa Padfoot eats all of our breakfast huh!"
Olivia hopped out of Harry's arms and began jumping on the bed.
"Olivia Iris, you will stop jumping on this bed young lady," Hermione said sternly while sitting up.
Olivia stopped jumping and plopped down on her bottom before crawling into her Mummy's lap.
"Sorry Mumma, it's just so fun! Daddy lets us when you're out with Aunt Ginny and Aunt Susan."
Hermione's eyebrows rose and she looked over at Harry who had been shaking his head at his daughter. He couldn't believe she threw him under the bus! He abruptly stopped when Hermione looked his way and he rubbed the back of his neck.
"She's clearly fibbing 'Mione...I would never!"
"Mhm...Liv, does Daddy jump as well?"
Olivia began laughing and nodding her head.
"Traitor," Harry called playfully, pointing at the little snitch. "I see you Livie, I see how it is."
"Oh Daddy, you're so silly. Mummy lets us eat popcorn in the bed and stay up late when you're away."
Hermione gasped and Harry laughed loudly at Hermione's guilty countenance.
"Oh really? Mummy isn't so innocent after all is she."
He could hear Liam snickering behind him and turned to look over his shoulder.
"What else does Mummy let you do while I'm away?"
Liam mimed zipping and locking his lips and Harry chuckled.
Hermione got out of bed before she scooped the girl into her arms and blew a raspberry on her tummy.
She walked around the bed toward the door where Harry and Liam were waiting and stood on her tiptoes to give him a quick kiss on her way past him.
Harry just smiled and shook his head before bending down to pick Liam up.
When they walked into the kitchen, Sirius had indeed already begun eating toast and Jack was attempting to crack eggs into a bowl. It looked as if he was fishing out a piece of shell.
Harry put Liam down and the boy ran straight to the table to sit with Sirius. Olivia followed close behind him and climbed into her seat as well.
"Need some help darling?" Hermione asked their eldest.
"No, thank you. I think I've got it, sorry they woke you up, I tried to keep them down here but they snuck off."
"Jack, it isn't your responsibility to keep your brother and sister occupied in the mornings. Mum and I were up anyway, but thank you." Harry said while ruffling his son's messy black hair.
Jack smiled at his Dad before turning back to his task.
Harry smiled back at his son and went to help Hermione with everyone's drinks. Before she could get started pouring, Harry pulled his wife in for a hug. She squeezed him back tightly and smiled up at him.
"We have some pretty awesome kids, Mr. Potter," she said.
Harry couldn't agree more and he turned his gaze toward their three kids.
Seven-year-old James Harrison was a carbon copy of his grandfather. His messy jet black hair and hazel eyes along with strong Potter genes, had Sirius swearing he was Prongs reincarnated. Jack was their reckless child, always up for an adventure and never thinking about the consequences before diving in head first. He was loud and quite funny but knew when to reign it in and be serious.
He looked over at Liam sitting with his sister at the table. William Charles had dark wild curls like his mother and Harry's green eyes. Their six-year-old middle child was Hermione made over. Liam was quiet and could be shy at times, he loved to read anything he could get his hands on and was eager to learn. Unlike his mum, Liam loved to fly and was very competitive. He was also fiercely protective of his siblings and never thought twice about defending them.
Harry looked at his youngest and grinned.
Olivia Iris, his little rebel princess. Harry smiled, knowing that she would never fit the prim and proper princess mold. The three-year-old was the spitting image of her mother and full of sass, which Harry knew she got honestly from himself. She was a spitfire, not afraid to stick up for herself or her brothers but she also had the kindest heart. She was almost always wearing a dress but it would inevitably be covered in dirt by the end of the day. She was a handful, to say the least.
"Harry, what time will everyone be coming over?" Hermione asked before stepping back and turning to start pouring juice into cups.
"Around lunchtime, so I'd guess noon."
Hermione nodded and walked to the table to sit a cup of juice in front of Liam, Livie, and Sirius who smiled and pecked her cheek.
"Thank you, Kitten," he said while still looking at the paper.
Two more "thank yous" were called out and Hermione smiled.
"You're welcome! Jack, darling why don't I help you finish those eggs and you can set the table."
Jack nodded to his Mum and handed her the spatula.
"Daddy, is Teddy coming today?" Jack asked, and Harry nodded as he helped him with the plates.
"Yes, he'll be here along with the rest of the family. Everyone is coming over for our end of summer party before Teddy and Vickie go to Hogwarts."
At the mention of Hogwarts, all of the children began chattering away about what they would do when they got there.
The boys attended Hermione's school and Olivia would join them when she was five. Teddy and Victoire had also attended and this September they would both go to Hogwarts, Teddy for his third year and Vickie for her first.
The school had been a huge success and after the first three years, she had to relocate from her small building and build a larger school on the outskirts of Hogsmeade. She had been able to work with Minerva to get the muggleborn children enrolled at age five, giving them six years of basic education before Hogwarts. They received the same classes as a muggle primary as well as magical classes, including magical culture.
Harry was so proud of everything his wife had accomplished, and though she had naysayers at the beginning there were very few who could disagree that her school was benefiting their society.
As the morning passed by, Jack, Liam, and Livie had helped clean up breakfast and then disappeared out into the backyard with Padfoot.
Hermione kept a close watch out the windows as she prepared sandwiches and made treacle tart for their get together.
"What can I do to help, 'Mione?"
"Hmmm, would you get the large platter down for me? Then you can stack the sandwiches up."
"Sure thing, love," he said after a quick peck to her temple.
He pulled the platter down and brought it over to the counter beside her. They worked together, talking about their plans for the following week.
As they were talking, the floo chimed and a moment later Tonks walked into the living room.
"Wotcher, Potters"
Harry waved from the kitchen and watched as Remus and then Teddy followed Tonks out of the floo.
"Ted, the kids, and Padfoot are out in the back," Harry said to the teen.
Teddy nodded and hurried toward the door.
When he had almost made it, Hermione gasped dramatically.
"Teddy Lupin! No hug? No hello? Are you too cool for me now?"
Teddy smiled sheepishly and a light blush covered his cheeks.
"Sorry Mia," he said as he walked over to give her a hug. "Ooo, can I have a sandwich? I'm starving!"
Hermione rolled her eyes, the boy was always hungry these days, and handed him a sandwich before sending him out the door.
"Is he excited about school?" Hermione asked.
Tonks nodded and walked over to help Hermione. " He hasn't stopped talking about it. He's been packed for a week!"
Harry, having his job taken over by Tonks, walked outside with Remus.
That afternoon Harry sat on the back patio, Padfoot laying beside him after a long game of chase.
"You know you can go inside and take a nap if you need to old man," Harry said to his godfather.
Padfoot's ears raised up and Harry chuckled.
Padfoot transformed back into Sirius and sat in the chair beside Harry.
"I'm not that old Pup!"
About that time, Hermione came out and handed him and Sirius each a drink before plopping herself in Harry's lap.
"You boys didn't want to go for a swim?" She asked.
Harry shook his head and Sirius looked like he was contemplating doing just that.
A few minutes later, Olivia noticed that Sirius had transformed back into himself and ran over to crawl into his lap. Though Sirius loved all of the children, Olivia was his favorite. She had him wrapped around her little finger and Sirius was completely unashamed to admit it.
"Livie, you didn't want to go swimming?" Harry asked.
"Daddy...I can't. I'm three...I need my armbands and an adult," she replied in a voice that clearly implied that she thought he was an idiot.
Hermione was hiding her face in the crook of his neck and her shoulders were shaking with silent laughter.
"Of course, sweetheart, you're right. Going out there alone would be irresponsible, you should get your armbands and ask Papa to go with you."
Olivia turned her big brown eyes up to look at Sirius' and smiled sweetly. "Papa, can you please go swimming with me?"
Harry watched Sirius smile and pretend to think about it. Olivia batted her eyelashes and poked out her bottom lip "pleaaaase?" She asked.
Sirius laughed and kissed her forehead while Harry shook his head at the scene.
"Of course I will Poppet, let's get those armbands," Sirius said.
Sirius stood up and carried the girl down the path to the shed where the swimming toys were kept.
"Whose children did you say they were again? Because that sass was all you Harry James." Hermione said while laughing.
She kissed him on the cheek before standing up, but before she could get away he pulled her back down for a proper kiss.
When he released her, she was breathless and her cheeks her flushed.
"What was that for?" She asked.
Harry smiled, "just being you."
She smiled and shook her head. When she stood up and turned around, he swatted her backside and she let out a small yelp before walking toward Ginny and Susan.
He sat and watched the three women talking. Hermione had snagged baby Kieran as soon as she could. Seeing his wife sway as she held the three-month-old, warmed his heart. She was a fantastic mum and the image of her once again round with their baby had been playing in his head for the last year and a half.
A squeal and a streak of long blonde hair broke his concentration and he saw Teddy dart past him.
He noticed Remus walking over while shaking his head, "I give it eight years. He'll be proposing marriage the moment she graduates."
"Maybe Tonks and Fleur should start planning the wedding now, get a head start," Harry said, with a smirk.
"Merlin, can you imagine those two planning a wedding," he laughed. "Hermione looks cozy with little Kieran. Any news you want to share?"
Harry smiled, his attention back to his wife.
"Not yet," Harry sighed. "We're hoping this month is the one, I'm trying to keep her from getting discouraged...it's never taken this long before."
"It'll happen when it's supposed to. Wow...four Potter kids, can the world handle it?"
Harry smiled, he would have a house full if it were up to him. Ron and Susan were expecting their third any day now. Their three older children, Ellie, Lottie, and Oliver were excited and hoping for a brother.
Ginny and Ian had three, Callum, Caitlin and Kieran, and had no plans to add any more.
Between the three couples, the Lupins and the other Weasley siblings, there were fourteen children.
"Between all of us, I wouldn't be surprised if McGonagall retired soon."
They both laughed and watched the kids and adults out in the yard.
"Daddy!" Liam said, out of breath from running.
"What is it?"
"Jack wanted me to ask when we could play Quidditch."
"I think we can do that, why don't you go get your brother so I can get the two of you dried off."
Liam ran off toward the lake and Harry stood.
"You going to play Remus?"
Remus shook his head, "no I think I'll keep my feet on the ground tonight."
Harry nodded and walked out to Hermione. He smiled when she looked up at him and then back down at the little boy in her arms with longing in her eyes.
"Here," She said and held the boy out to him.
He took the baby from her arms and held him close, Kieran's blue eyes were wide.
"Hey, there little guy. Look at you, you're a handsome boy aren't you and you get bigger every time I see you."
The baby cooed and smiled up at Harry.
"Oh yes, have you been smiling at your Aunt 'Mione? You've already got her wrapped around your tiny finger to haven't you?"
Hermione laughed at his baby talk and put her arm around his waist.
"Is it Quidditch time?"
"Yes, the boys have been waiting all day and Liam finally came and asked."
He handed the baby back to Ginny when he began to fuss, indicating it was time to eat.
"Want to play chaser?"
Hermione laughed, of course, he knew she still didn't care for flying no matter how many times he tried to change her mind.
"I don't think anyone wants me playing chaser, love."
"Nonsense, you'd be brilliant. I'm going to head over and get the boys their brooms, Livie is with Sirius."
Hermione nodded and he walked out to the shed where the boys were waiting.
That evening, Harry turned the kitchen lights off and walked up the stairs. The boys were in their beds but still awake and he could hear soft voices coming from Olivia's room.
He stood in the doorway, Olivia was standing on her bed and Hermione was standing in front of her, helping her into her pajamas.
"Mumma, can you read me a bedtime story?"
"Of course, love. Let me go tuck the boys in and I'll be right back."
Olivia crawled under the covers and Hermione smoothed them around her before she walked out of the room and into the hallway.
"Hey," she said with a smile when she saw him waiting for her.
They walked to Jack and Liam's bedroom and tucked them in, kissing them goodnight.
Both boys were exhausted from their long day of swimming, flying and running around.
"G'night Mummy, g'night Daddy," Liam said.
"Good night, love. Good night Jack."
"Night Mummy and Daddy," Jack whispered.
Harry and Hermione walked back into Olivia's room to see that she had fallen asleep as well. Hermione smiled and walked into the room to turn off her lamp while Harry kissed his daughter's forehead.
When they walked into their room, Hermione went into the bathroom to begin her nightly routine. Harry thought it was adorable, she would wash her face, brush her teeth and then moisturize her face, put lotion on her hands and arms and then dress for bed.
He sat on the bed after brushing his own teeth and stripping down to his boxers and waited. She seemed to be taking longer than normal and when he heard her scream he jumped from the bed and ran into the bathroom.
"Hermione! Are you alright?"
She turned when she heard him enter the room, a wide grin was on her face, tears streamed from her eyes and launched herself into his arms.
She squeezed him tightly and then pulled back as a sob fell from her lips.
"'Mione?" He said worriedly, "what is it, love?"
She reached over to the sink and picked up the stick he hadn't noticed was lying there and Harry's eyes widened.
"Are you?" He asked quietly as if getting too excited would jinx it.
"Yes!" She cried out.
Harry whooped loudly and picked her up to spin her around. Her laughter rang out and he couldn't help but join her.
When he put her down, he cupped her face and wiped the tears from her cheeks. Tears sprang to his own eyes and Hermione laid her hands over his.
"I was so worried it wasn't meant to be."
"I know, but I'm so happy we never gave up. Another Potter! 'Mione, I love you so much. Thank you," he said while kissing her forehead. She had given him three beautiful children and now she would give him a fourth.
"I love you too, you big sap," she teased before taking a deep breath and smiling up at him. "Take me to bed, Mr. Potter, I believe celebrations are in order."
Harry grinned before he picked her up and threw her over his shoulder, "I think it's only right that I show you my full appreciation, Mrs. Potter."
She cackled and smacked his arse as he hauled her into the bedroom and dropped her on the bed.
Leaning down, he raised her T-shirt, one that had been stolen from his drawer. He bent down and kissed her abdomen, "hello there little one, I'm your Daddy. I can't wait to meet you."
His heart was full and he closed his eyes as he laid his cheek on her tummy. Hermione ran her hands through his hair as he whispered to their tiny baby. Promising him or her a life filled with love, and happiness.
He couldn't wait to tell Jack, Liam, and Livie in the morning, but first, he planned to show his wife just how much he loved her.