A/N: Hi all- welcome to the final chapter of What You Don't Know. Thanks for the reviews along the way, I've loved reading your responses.

As always, I've met a few requests in this chapter- I always find endings hard to write, but hope it isn't too bad!

Hermione and Fleur arrived to brunch soon after picking Hugo up. They had taken longer than planned because Hugo had needed another change before they left the Weasleys.

Unfortunately for Hermione, it was her turn to change him. But nothing could dampen her mood.

Their morning had been spent squeezing in some vigorous lovemaking before picking up their son, so Hermione was feeling on top of the world.

Hermione and Fleur managed to scoop a seat right by the window, sunny in the late morning light. Hermione loved looking at the way that the sun brought out the silvery quality of Fleur's platinum blonde hair. It reminded her of the way Fleur had looked earlier that morning, straddling her in bed, toned muscles and delicate features illuminated and shadowed in the morning sun. Her hair had glittered like it was made of silver and gold. Her bright blue eyes had never seemed more alive.

Right now Fleur's face had lit up as Hugo played with a fistful of her silky hair. She didn't even seem to mind when he tried to shove it into his mouth, covering it in slobber.

"You missed him, huh?" Hermione asked, smiling at her girlfriend.

Fleur looked up at Hermione, pouting adorably.

"It's just so hard not having him around," Fleur said, "As much as I enjoyed having some adults-only time with you."

"I worried about him a little," Hermione confessed, "I know Molly and Arthur are more than capable… But I'm so protective of our little boy."

Fleur smiled at her.

"You're so sweet," Fleur beamed.

They shared a plate of waffles, feeling very much loved up. As they finished their brunch, Hermione shot Fleur with what she hoped was a cute look.

"So… You're not even going to give me a hint about what this project is that you're working on?" Hermione asked, cocking her head to one side.

Fleur leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs and flipping her shimmering hair over her shoulder. She looked at Hermione with glittering eyes.

"Mon amour, you are very cute, but I can't ruin the surprise," Fleur said with a smile, "What I can say, is that it's all coming together. Do you think you would be able to get some time off for your birthday?"

"Sure," Hermione answered, even more mystified, "Not even a slight clue?"

Fleur smiled serenely.

"We need to travel for the surprise," Fleur said, "But it has all worked out quite well."

Hermione looked suspiciously at Fleur, her mind whirring into overdrive. She tried not to overthink it. The last thing she wanted to do would be to work out what the surprise was and ruin seeing Fleur's face. The best part about Fleur surprising her was really how much the blonde lit up with excitement.

They finished up their brunch. Fleur settled Hugo into his little pram outside while Hermione settled up the bill. Fleur and Hugo were going to spend the afternoon working on Hermione's birthday surprise, while Hermione was going to stop past and visit Ginny. She had owled the redhead when she had woken up, curious to find out what had happened the previous night with Amelie and Sophie.

She stepped out, kissing Fleur gently on the lips. She planted a kiss on Hugo's forehead, who gurgled and kicked his legs in response.

"Okay, so no following us, right?" Fleur asked, fixing Hermione with a stern look, "I know how curious you can get."

"No, I promise," Hermione said with a warm smile. Fleur was being truly adorable.

Fleur smiled, appeased, heading off with Hugo and giving Hermione a small wave.

Hermione's stomach flipped.

She apparated to Ginny's flat. Ginny shared a place in the city with Luna and another girl they had gone to Hogwarts with.

"Gin?" Hermione called out.

Ginny had indicated in her reply that morning that she would definitely be free by midday.

"Ginny?" Hermione called out, louder.

Luna didn't appear to be home. She might still be at Grimmauld Place with Harry. Their other flatmate didn't seem to be home either.

"Ginny, are you even home?" Hermione called out, exasperated.

She saw Ginny's door was ajar. Hermione decided to just peek in to confirm Ginny was out of the house before giving up and going home.

Hermione pushed the door open, freezing as she realized, people were in fact home.

Ginny was in bed, naked as the day she was born, being passionately kissed by Sophie. The part Veela had pinned the redhead to the bed by her wrists.

"Oh—Gods—I'm sorry—" Hermione spluttered, blushing.

Sophie looked up, smirking, before diving back to kiss Ginny. Ginny, suddenly red as a beet, pushed the forward blonde off herself.

"Oh Merlin!" Ginny gasped, yanking the covers up to cover herself.

Sophie, seeming as confident with her body as Fleur, merely leaned back against the pillows, folding her arms behind her head.

"I'm so sorry, Gin—You said you'd be ready by midday…" Hermione babbled, rubbing the back of her neck, "Wait, where's Amelie?"

"Here!" a muffled voice replied.

Amelie emerged from the depths of the blankets, wedging herself between Ginny and Sophie. If it were possible for Ginny to blush darker, she did.

"Ahh… I'll just wait in the living room," Hermione said, blushing herself.

She shut the door tightly, heading to the living room and sitting down on a couch. She knew Ginny would have fallen for Sophie's seductive charms again. But somehow she hadn't quite predicted it would continue well into the next day.

Ginny appeared quickly, wrapped tightly in a purple fluffy robe. She sheepishly crept into the room, sitting on a couch opposite Hermione.

"So…" Hermione said slowly. Her eyes slipped to the redhead's slender neck, littered with lovebites.

"Er, do you mind… Not telling the others about this?" Ginny said, wincing, "I would never hear the end of it."

"I mean, I can't say I never saw it coming," Hermione shrugged.

"I certainly didn't see it coming!" Ginny yelped.

"Are you serious? Sophie was all over you and Amelie last night," Hermione scoffed, "She couldn't keep her hands to herself."

"I just…" Ginny blushed, "She's just such a wild thing… I mean, is it a Veela thing? Just taking charge like that and pouncing?"

Now it was Hermione's turn to blush, thinking about how she took the more dominant role in bed with Fleur. She thought about how Cassandra had said the Veela could be like that though, falling into their predatory nature and taking charge. But judging from the state of Ginny, it didn't seem the worst thing in the world to be the prey of a Veela.

"It, er, could be," Hermione said non-committedly.

"I'm sorry, Hermione," Ginny said, "I know we were supposed to hang out…"

Hermione quirked a grin.

"That's okay… I can see you have your hands full," Hermione smirked, "I'll go and see the boys instead."

The tips of Ginny's ears were red and she averted her eyes. Hermione chuckled.

"Er, thanks, Hermione," Ginny said with uncharacteristic shyness.

Hermione waved off her friend, leaving her to her fun. She apparated to Grimmauld Place.

Ron, Harry, and Luna were all sitting at the table as if they had just been in the middle of some kind of meeting.

"Hermione? What are you doing here?" Ron asked, "Did you leave something of Hugo's behind? Ow!"

Harry elbowed the redhead, hard.

Hermione narrowed her eyes.

"Something of Hugo's? Were Hugo and Fleur just here?" Hermione asked.

Harry and Ron shook their heads too vigorously. They were terrible liars.

"Nah," Harry said, running a nervous hand through his spikes of raven hair, "We were… Luna and I were… We were just asking Ron about the girl he copped off with last night."

"Copped off with?!" Ron echoed in a scandalized tone, reminding Hermione very much of Molly Weasley, "Marie is a woman, Harry. I won't have you talking about her like that."

Hermione's eyes widened and her jaw fell open. Ron had to be the most pig-like of all her friends when it came to speaking about women.

"Who are you and what have you done with Ron?" Hermione asked, baffled. Harry was chuckling, amused.

"Mate, I don't think I've ever heard you talk about a girl like this before," Harry said, "I mean, it's about time… But what about Marie is so special? I thought you drooled over all Fleur's friends."

"She's just… She's really cool, okay, guys?" Ron said, going a little red and playing with his hands, "Nothing happened… We just ended up talking all night. But we have loads in common. She even likes the Chudley Cannons!"

How a Frenchwoman would even know about Ron's godforsaken regional team was past Hermione, but it was quite cute.

Hermione tried her best to wheedle clues from Harry, Ron and Luna throughout the afternoon, but it appeared that Fleur had taken a hard line with them all. None of them were willing to even hint at what they knew.

When Hermione got home, she was further intrigued when Fleur mentioned in passing that she had seen Sophie that day. Considering Hermione knew perfectly well that Sophie was very much occupied with two of her other friends, Hermione's suspicions were very much piqued. She may not know anything about her birthday surprise, but she did know that all her friends appeared to be in on it.

The rest of the week went on in a similar fashion. Hermione caught Fleur many times on her hand mirror talking to Gabrielle, on her phone speaking quietly in French, or sending off Owls.

Hermione funneled her growing curiosity into her work.

It was the only way she could cope with Fleur's sneaking without attempting to ruin the surprise.

It paid off though. Not only had Lemnos secured the official approval for Hermione's proposal, but now the whole team were reviewing a number of outdated restrictions. The first one, banning Magical Creatures from public places such as train stations and hospitals, was set to be repealed the week after Hermione's birthday. Hermione couldn't wait. It was a hell of a win to kick off the big review.

Hermione awoke to soft singing.

"Happy birthday to you…"

She opened her brown honey-flecked eyes to find her girlfriend and baby standing at the end of the bed. Fleur was jiggling Hugo in her arms. The little blonde baby was gurgling and kicking his little feet.

Hermione sat up in bed, her heart absolutely melting at Fleur and Hugo singing her Happy Birthday. Not that Hugo was really singing. But it was still incredibly adorable.

"I'm so glad I took work off," Hermione grinned.

Fleur came and dropped Hugo in Hermione's arms. She dropped a kiss to Hermione's forehead sweetly before sweeping out of the room again. She returned soon after with a tray of breakfast.

"Pancakes, fruit, syrup and yoghurt," Fleur smiled, "And a cup of tea with just a splash of milk."

"Ohhhh, Merlin," Hermione uttered, her mouth watering. Fleur deposited the tray on her lap before scooping Hugo from Hermione's arms.

"Oh, I almost forgot," Fleur said, casting a quick accio spell, "A copy of The Daily Prophet as well as Ancient Runes Monthly."

"Have I ever told you that I love you?" Hermione said, looking at Fleur with pure adoration.

Fleur grinned.

"I'm going to take Hugo into the living room and cast a silencing spell so he can't interrupt your reading if he gets fussy," Fleur told the cosy brunette, "You take your time and enjoy your morning in bed. When you're ready to get up, just come to us in the living room. Then we will be ready for the next stage of your birthday treat."

Hermione hadn't had a quiet moment to just sit around and read for pleasure since Hugo had been born. Not at home, anyway. It felt incredibly luxurious to bask in the morning sun, dig into her breakfast and scan the latest news.

She let out a big sigh, stretching happily.

"This is the life," Hermione murmured to herself. She suddenly felt like she was becoming her own father. He, too, found one of the greatest luxuries to be his annual Father's Day breakfast in bed with the newspaper and all his favourite reference journals.

Hermione felt a sharp stab of grief at the memory of him ruffling a newspaper.

Pushing it to one side with practiced compartmentalization, Hermione turned her attentions to Ancient Runes Monthly.

It was mid-morning when Hermione finally got up and showered. She was feeling thoroughly relaxed and spoilt after her morning. Not knowing where they were going, she pulled on a plain sweater and some black jeans with her black converse. She brushed her hair simply, flashing a confident smile at herself in the mirror.

Another year older.

So much had changed in Hermione's life in the past year and a bit.

Hermione headed out to the living room where Fleur was patiently waiting, trying to get Hugo not to tug too hard on her long silky hair. A suitcase was on the floor next to them.

"So where are we going?" Hermione asked.

Fleur beamed, standing up and coming to kiss her girlfriend.

"Promise not to be disappointed, but we are going to Marseilles. My parents absolutely insisted on being involved with your birthday, and we needed to go over that way for the surprise project I have been working on anyway," Fleur said, flashing an apologetic smile.

"I love Marseilles!" Hermione insisted, beaming, "I also love seeing your family!"

"Bon," Fleur sighed, looking considerably relieved.

"So… I guess we're in for Hugo's first big train ride," Hermione said, looking at the large brown eyes of their son. He looked so curious, even at such a young age. Hermione just knew Hugo would have her thirst for knowledge.

"Non," Fleur said, flashing a smile, "It took a bit of working, but I managed to get an exception to use an international Portkey."

"Really?!" Hermione exclaimed, "They usually save those for international sporting events and the likes, to avoid congestion with public transport."

"Mmn, but they have made an exception," Fleur said silkily. She produced a small pencil from her pocket.

Hermione and Fleur held the pencil and helped Hugo latch on to it. As expected, Hermione felt a sensation like a hook just behind her navel, before being pulled into darkness.

Hermione felt her feet slam onto the marbled floor of the Delacour entranceway. She forgot how dizzy Portkeys made her feel. Hugo began to cry, wailing loudly and screaming.

"Hush, little guy," Hermione soothed, taking Hugo from Fleur, "I know that didn't feel very good. But now you'll get to see your grandparents!"

Hugo kept crying, upset after his unsettling transportation.

There was a neat clipping of shoes on the marble floor. Fleur and Hermione looked up to see the familiar butler, Paul.

"Mademoiselles," he bowed, "May I take the bebe? The family have arranged for a suitable nanny to be on the grounds during your trip."

"Oh!" Hermione exclaimed, "I mean it seems a little unfair to offload him when he is so grumpy…"

"Merci," Fleur smiled with a nod. Paul lifted Hugo from Hermione's arms.

"You are much lovelier than the other Paul that Fleur knows," Hermione said, smirking at Fleur.

"Oh you met Fleur's former paramour?" Butler Paul asked, raising an eyebrow, "Hmmm he was not a favourite of the staff here."

"He was quite rude," Fleur concurred, "But I trust you all love my new partner?"

Paul beamed.

"Of course! Mademoiselle Hermione is the Golden Girl! Plus, very polite and humble," Paul replied with a smile. Hugo was already beginning to calm down in his arms.

Hermione felt a little uncomfortable at the praise being loaded on her. She shuffled awkwardly on her feet. Fleur seemed to sense Hermione's awkwardness, stepping in.

"So, have you seen my parents or grandmere?" Fleur asked.

Paul smiled.

"They headed out some time ago but are expected back any time now," Paul replied, "You go ahead and get settled. They will be back before you know it."

"Bon," Fleur replied.

Hermione and Fleur made their way up the staircase. Fleur stepped ahead of Hermione with purpose, carrying their suitcase. Hermione couldn't help but let her eyes drift to the blonde's derriere. She was wearing a simple dress and heels, but Hermione could still very much appreciate the blonde's form in the clothes.

Fleur had just stepped into the bedroom and placed down their suitcase when Hermione swiftly shut the bedroom door and pinned Fleur against it.

"Hermione," Fleur gasped, surprised.

Hermione pressed her body flush against Fleur's, nuzzling into her neck.

"I want my birthday present," Hermione growled.

"I—uh- I don't have it with us," Fleur gasped, as Hermione's hands travelled up her thighs and under her dress.

"I'm not talking about that," Hermione said hungrily, "I'm talking about you."

"Hermione," Fleur whimpered as Hermione's hands explored boldly beneath her dress, "Are you sure?"

"Hugo is being looked after, your family are out… Who knows when we will next have a moment alone?" Hermione panted into Fleur's neck.

Fleur melted into her arms, giving in to her girlfriend. Hermione only paused long enough to do the necessary contraceptive spell.

Finally, their lips met, warm and passionate. They kissed deeply, stumbling backwards towards the bed. Clothes were shed madly, tossed across the room without a care. Hermione fell back onto the bed, pulling the now-naked Veela on top of her. Fleur immediately began grinding on her. Hermione's hands tugged at her hips desperately before grabbing her ass.

Fleur slid to straddle one of Hermione's thighs and Hermione trembled with arousal at how wet the blonde was. Fleur's tongue still in her mouth, Hermione's moan was silenced as the blonde slid a hand down between her legs and began to offer her some relief.

Fleur, as with most things she did, was delicate and careful. Hermione found her hips twitching as Fleur's skilled fingers worked. Fleur broke their kiss finally, kissing down her neck and brushing her teeth gently against her collarbone. Hermione shivered with pleasure.

Fleur looked up at her, sapphire meeting deep brown eyes. Fleur's full pouty lips were suspended just above one of Hermione's nipples. She could feel Fleur's breath on the stiff nub, a teasing sensation.

Fleur maintained eye contact as she slowly dropped her lips to the nipple, taking it into her mouth. Hermione felt her warm, wet tongue swirl around the nub and let out a strangled moan. Her back arched beneath the blonde.

Fleur nipped it playfully with her teeth, causing Hermione to inhale sharply. The soft tongue soon swirled again, a soothing contrast.

Fleur dropped her eyes to Hermione's body again as she released the nipple from her mouth, dropping a soft kiss to a particularly jarring scar on Hermione's upper abs. Fleur had made Hermione feel at ease with her scars over time. But right now, she was really making Hermione feel like they were beautiful and sexy.

Fleur looked up, locking eyes with Hermione again as she ran her tongue slowly up the length of the scar that started just above Hermione's navel and ended at the base of her breasts.

"Oh, sweet, sweet Merlin," Hermione moaned.

Fleurs hand was still at work, rhythmically pleasuring her clit. Between the dexterous pleasuring of her bundle of nerves down there, and Fleur's worshipping of the rest of her body, Hermione wasn't sure how much longer she could last.

Fleur slid Hermione's other nipple into her mouth, beginning to treat it in kind as its partner. Hermione's hands fisted in the sheets. She threw her head back, her eyes flickering shut.

Fleur seemed to be feeling competitive, rallying the speed of her fingers in her efforts to get Hermione off.

Hermione writhed on the bed.

Fleur, abandoning her play with Hermione's chest, covered the brunette's body more fully with her own, bringing her lips to brush against the shell of Hermione's ear. Hermione felt herself pushed to the edge at the sound of Fleur's breathy pants.

"Come on, mon amour," Fleur purred, "Come for me."

Hermione moaned, feeling like she was teetering right on the very edge. She felt Fleur's full lips smile against her ear.

"Mon amour," Fleur murmured in an impossibly seductive voice, "I'm yours."

Hermione hit her crescendo, shuddering beneath Fleur as she came undone. The head-rush of elation was deafening. She could barely hear herself crying out as she finished. Fleur held her to the end, murmuring sweet nothings in French and kissing at her neck.

When Fleur finally rolled off her, Hermione was grinning at the ceiling like a fool, chest heaving.

"Was that okay?" Fleur asked.

"Bloody brilliant," Hermione panted. She frowned as Fleur got up from the bed.

"Where do you think you're going?" she asked the blonde.

"I gave you your 'birthday present,'" Fleur shrugged, looking about the room for her clothes. It looked like a small tornado had strewn the women's clothing across the bedroom.

"I'm not done," Hermione said, sitting up and running a hand through her messed curls.

"Non?" Fleur asked, quirking an eyebrow.

"Non," Hermione replied firmly, "I didn't cast that contraceptive spell for nothing. Its your turn."

Fleur smiled coyly, returning to the bed with extra sway in her hips. Hermione got up, going over to their suitcase and opening it roughly.

"Hermione," Fleur pouted, "You always go to such ridiculous lengths to keep me waiting. Why are you wasting your time with our luggage?"

"I have a reason for my rummaging," Hermione assured, "Now, behave."

Fleur fell silent, crossing her arms impatiently.

Hermione found what she was after. The charmed toy. It had fast become a favourite of Hermione's. Though she didn't use every time they made love, she loved it when she was really in the mood. There was something incredibly arousing about watching Fleur bounce on it in her lap.

"Ohh,' Fleur said, her full lips quirking into a smile as she watched Hermione slip the strap-on over her hips.

"Hush, Fleur, and get on your hands and knees," Hermione instructed.

Fleur, to Hermione's pleasure, obeyed. The brunette practically leapt on the bed, positioning herself behind Fleur. She gripped the toy with one hand, using her other hand to pull Fleur back into her. She shut her eyes and groaned as the charm worked, allowing her to feel the sensation of sliding inside Fleur.

Once inside, Hermione rested both hands on Fleur's backside as she began thrusting. The feeling was indescribable. Fleur's back dipped and she let out small whimpers and cries of pleasure as her enjoyment grew.

Hermione savoured the little noises of pleasure the blonde was making, punctuated by the steady slap of her pelvis against the blonde's backside. Hermione felt like she was in heaven.

"Best. Birthday. Ever." Hermione grunted softly.

"Hermione," Fleur moaned. Hermione loved hearing the way Fleur moaned her name when in the throes of pleasure.

"Tell me you're mine," Hermione demanded.

"H-Hermione," Fleur whimpered.

"Tell me you're mine," Hermione repeated with a needy growl.

All of a sudden, the door slammed open, the Delacour clan walking in excitedly.

"Paul said you had arrived—Oh dear!" Apolline squawked.

Hermione's eyes snapped open in horror, taking in the surprised faces of Cassandra and Apolline. Alexandre, with lightning speed, had already clapped a hand over his eyes.

"Merde!" Fleur shrieked.

"Fuck!" Hermione swore, pulling out of Fleur as fast as she could and grabbing at nearby pillows to cover them.

"Maman! Papa! Grandmere! Get out!" Fleur shrieked in mortification.

The elder Delacours quickly left the room, shutting the door firmly behind them.

Hermione and Fleur stared at each other, wide-eyed.

"I… Uh… Didn't think they would be home so soon," Hermione said, rubbing the back of her neck, "Or, uh, come bowling right in here if they were."

"They were very excited for our visit," Fleur said hollowly, looking like she was in shock.

The two girls sat in stunned silence, processing the awkwardness of what had just happened.

"I suppose we should get dressed and go down to see them," Fleur said finally.

"Do we have to?" Hermione asked, slipping the strap-on off herself. The mood had truly passed, "I don't want them to be awkward."

"They're Veela. If anything, they will be horrifically not-awkward about it," Fleur said with a frown, "My Papa may be a little awkward though."

"Oh, Merlin," Hermione groaned.

She wasn't sure how exactly it had gone from being her best birthday ever to her worst, but here she was. She had loved her easy friendship with Alexandre.

'How can I ever look him in the eye again after he walked in on me giving it to his daughter?' Hermione thought to herself, stricken.

"It will be fine," Fleur soothed, tossing Hermione some clothes, "After all, I've walked in on my parents before. Grandmere too," Fleur shuddered.

Now Fleur was over the initial shock of it, her attitude was cheering Hermione up a little. It might be incredibly uncomfortable. But it wasn't the end of the world. They had a child! Obviously the Delacours knew that they had a sex life. It was hardly a secret.

Hermione got changed, convincing herself that it wasn't a big deal. From what Fleur had said, Veela were so sex-positive that they probably didn't even think it was a thing at all. In fact, maybe they wouldn't bring it up at all.

She took Fleur's hand, heading downstairs.

They found the Delacours in the dining room, sitting down to some drinks. Cassandra immediately fixed Hermione with a wide smile.

"You took my advice, I see," Cassandra said proudly, "Asserting yourself as the bolder partner, indeed."

Hermione blushed deep red.

"Grandmere!" Fleur yelped.

"Cassandra," Alexandre chided, "Didn't we just agree not to bother the girls about it?"

Hermione sat down beside Apolline, across from Alexandre. Fleur sat down at her other side. Cassandra beamed at her grandchild, sitting opposite Fleur.

"Alexandre, you have such a prudish outlook," Cassandra said, still smiling at Hermione and Fleur, "It is the sign of a good mating bond that they cannot keep their hands off each other."

"Stop," Fleur groaned, burying her face in her hands, "You're all so Veela."

"There's nothing wrong with that, dear," Apolline said to Fleur. Fleur peeked up from her hands, scowling.

"There is when your family insist on discussing sex at the table!" Fleur said sulkily.

Apolline, ignoring Fleur, turned to Hermione and put a hand on her shoulder.

"Hermione, I just wanted to let you know that we are so happy you are Fleur's mate," Apolline said genuinely, beaming at the brunette.

"Oh, er, thanks," Hermione said, relaxing a little.

"Now I know you're even more of a perfect match," Apolline said, clapping her hands together, "Fleur is so stubborn and proud I never would have thought she would have someone bringing out her submissive side like that."

"Maman!" Fleur bellowed, aggravated.

Hermione blushed darkly.

"Well, it's true," Apolline smiled, sipping at her water.

"Is everything ready outside?" Fleur interrupted, narrowing her eyes at her mother.

"Oui, oui," Apolline said, waving her hand dismissively.

"What is outside?" Hermione asked, turning to Fleur.

Fleur looked at a clock on the wall, which had just struck twelve-thirty.

"You can't have an enjoyable lunch outside in England in September," Fleur said, smiling, "But it is lovely weather in Marseilles!"

Hermione smiled. She did love dining outside in the pretty Marseilles scenery.

They got up and headed outside, the Delacours taking their drinks with them. Hermione followed them, her jaw dropping at the scene outside.

The Delacours had decorated the lawn with several large floral installations. A beautiful table was laid out in the centre of them, prettily decorated. A banner hovered magically above the table, spelling out 'Happy Birthday Hermione.'

Around the table were all Hermione's nearest and dearest: Harry, Ron, Ginny, Amelie, Mr Weasley, Mrs Weasley, and Luna. Even little Hugo was at the table, accompanied by a matronly like woman that Hermione assumed was the nanny.

"Wow…" Hermione gaped.

"Surprise!" the group called out.

"I hope this is okay…" Fleur murmured self-consciously.

"All my favourite people in the same place? It's amazing, Fleur!" Hermione said, smiling widely, "I don't think anyone has ever done anything like this for me before."

"I would do anything and more for you, mon amour," Fleur smiled, sweeping in and kissing Hermione.

"Now PDA!" Apolline remarked to Cassandra, "Hermione really has changed our little icicle!"

"She's becoming more Veela each day," Cassandra replied.

"Maman! Grandmere!" Fleur growled. But she kept her arm around Hermione and pecked her on the cheek, more concerned with her mate than her pesky Veela relatives.

Hermione sat down as the food was deposited on the table: all of her favourites. Alexandre even brought in some wine from a local vineyard.

Hermione looked around the table as she savoured her lunch. Harry was joking around with Luna, Ron was telling Alexandre about Marie and the cookbook she had owled him. Hugo was gurgling and kicking as Mr and Mrs Weasley played with him. Everything was perfect. She only wished her parents could be there to see how her life had panned out.

Fleur had a hand on Hermione's thigh and was politely asking Amelie and Ginny where they were staying. It appeared unlike the others, they would not be heading directly back to Britain.

Hermione smirked as Ginny's ears reddened and Amelie choked on her wine, before admitting that they would be staying with Sophie.

As lunch leisurely began to wind up, Hermione found herself inundated with eagerly presented gifts.

Ron, Luna and Harry had gone in together to purchase Hermione a set of leather-bound wizarding encyclopedias, which had clumsily been wrapped by Ron. Hermione felt her hands itching to leaf through them already. Amelie and Ginny had got Hermione a curious pair of eyeglasses. At her confused reaction, Ginny clarified. They had been purchased from Weasleys' Wizarding Wheezes. They allowed the wearer to see in the dark perfectly clearly – allowing Hermione to continue reading in bed at night long after Fleur had put out the lamps. Hermione was elated. The Veela often got grumpy if Hermione left the lamp on too long while reading before sleep.

Mr and Mrs Weasley had got Hermione a lumpy knitted scarf and beanie, which Hermione profusely thanked them for. She had no doubt that she would be getting another Christmas jumper in December to accompany them.

The Delacours had bought Hermione a writing set with the finest quills, inks and parchment that Hermione had ever seen. Some of the inks even changed colour depending on the tone the writer was using.

Hermione's heart swelled as she was passed her final present, an elegantly wrapped box that stated it was from Fleur and Hugo.

Fleur leaned in close to her, her lips brushing her ear.

"I have something else for you after lunch," Fleur clarified.

Hermione turned the small wrapped box in her hands, pondering what it was. It was quite small. For a moment, she wildly considered it might be a ring. Alexandre was excitedly taking photographs of them all and all of her loved ones were there… It would be the perfect timing. A part of her was a little scared by that. It was awfully soon. She and Fleur had barely adjusted to having a child. But another part of her was incredibly excited by the prospect.

Glancing at Fleur, however, she could tell that it wasn't a momentous statement. Unwrapping it slowly, she found a pretty gold necklace inside. The pendant was the symbol of the Deathly Hallows.

"Harry and Ron assured me you wouldn't find it morbid," Fleur said quickly.

"I don't," Hermione replied honestly, "I love it."

The Deathly Hallows represented an enormous chapter of her life. Traumatic, sure. But it also reminded her of how much she valued the freedom of those around her and appreciated the loved ones that she still had around. She had even considered once or twice getting it as a tattoo, but had always chickened out. No, a necklace was much more her style.

Fleur relaxed, her tense shoulders lowering as Hermione excitedly put it on.

"So, if this isn't the project you've been working on, what is?" Hermione asked, confused. Fleur grinned impishly.

"Patience, we must finish up here and farewell our guests first," Fleur teased.

Hermione groaned, but relented all the same.

"So," Hermione said, breaking the silence as she travelled in the carriage with Fleur, "When Molly was saying goodbye to Hugo, she mentioned that they had been spending a lot of time together lately. Is this why you have taken so remarkably well to having Hugo all day as well as all night?"

Fleur smirked, looking out the window with practiced indifference.

"He has had a few trips to The Burrow," Fleur said casually, "I had some errands to run further afield and could not take him with me."

"Errands being this project you've been working on?" Hermione asked.

"Perhaps," Fleur said, her sapphire eyes turning to look at Hermione with amusement.

"That you're still not going to tell me about," Hermione said flatly, "Even though we are literally on our way there."

"And you say I am the impatient one," Fleur chuckled.

"You don't have to be so goddamn mysterious," Hermione complained.

Fleur arched her eyebrow dangerously.

"Considering my entire family caught me indulging you in your last birthday wish, I think I am entitled to some mystery, non?" Fleur said lightly, though her tone clearly showed Hermione should not push her luck further. She was learning quickly when the Veela temper flared.

"Er, you're right, babe," Hermione said diplomatically, rubbing the back of her neck. Never mind that she was just as traumatized as Fleur about getting caught.

"It is fine," Fleur sighed, "Veela are just so overly sexual all the time. I used to be used to it, but now it just bothers me. My mother and grandmere discuss sex over the dinner table as candidly as current affairs. I'm sorry you have to put up with it."

"You don't have to be embarrassed," Hermione said with a small smile, "It is quite a lot to get used to. But I've always been a little prudish myself. If it is a Veela thing, and it is your family, I'm more than happy to get used to it."

Fleur smiled slightly, seeming a little less annoyed about it.

"Well… Okay," Fleur said, "But we are definitely triple locking the door and casting silencing spells from now on."

"Agreed," Hermione said with such enthusiasm it made Fleur laugh.

"I love you," Fleur said earnestly, leaning in and kissing Hermione softly.

The carriage ground to a halt.

Hermione's curiosity was almost unbearable now. They had travelled in the carriage for nearly an hour now. Fleur got out of the carriage with such a leisurely pace, Hermione was growing more convinced that this was some way of getting back at her for testing the blonde's own impatience regularly.

Leaping out eagerly after Fleur, Hermione found that they were in a small Muggle village with cobbled streets. What on Earth could Fleur have planned in the Muggle world? And why did they need to be in France for it? And why this village in particular?

"I can practically hear your brain whirring, mon amour," Fleur said with a smile, "We are just about there."

She looped her arm through Hermione's walking them down the street. Her heels clicked loudly on the streets and passing Muggles stared at her. Hermione supposed the Veela stood out. She was awfully formal looking in her dress and heels from lunch. Hermione wondered why she hadn't changed into something more comfortable for their journey. Then she rolled her eyes. Of course she wouldn't have. She was Fleur, she loved wearing high heels and dresses.

Fleur stopped in front of a tiny little bar. Hermione was absolutely baffled now. It was mid afternoon and hardly the type of place she would imagine Fleur would want to be caught dead at.

"This is it?" Hermione asked, raising her eyebrows.

Fleur smiled in the proud manner she had about her.

"Patience, my lion," Fleur soothed. She slipped her hand into Hermione's leading the brunette inside the bar.

She spoke rapidly to a man behind the bar in French. Too fast for Hermione to even hazard a guess at what she had said. The man nodded towards the back of the bar and Fleur headed in that direction, tugging Hermione by the hand.

"You know, Fleur, I'm really quite full after that lunch," Hermione began before the words died on her lips.

Fleur had led her to a booth and stopped patiently.

Of course, that wasn't what had stolen the words out of Hermione's mouth. Sitting in the booth were Hermione's parents. They were older and more tanned than they had been years before, but Hermione recognized them all the same.

"I… Fleur…" Hermione babbled.

"Hermione," Jean Granger cried out, her eyes brimming with tears.

"Petal!" Hugo Granger exclaimed.

Hermione was in shock. They recognized her.

"But how…?" Hermione gaped.

"It turns out powerful memory charms have the same kind of magical mechanism as some types of curses," Fleur said quietly, "It just took a lot of research and failed attempts. Well, and tracking them down to this village. They had moved here from Australia years ago."

"This is why Mrs Weasley was looking after Hugo?" Hermione asked, still in total disbelief. Fleur nodded.

"Hermione!"

Hermione's parents had got up from the booth and threw their arms around her, engulfing her in a tight crushing hug.

Hermione realized her face was wet with tears as she sunk into their arms, beyond grateful.

"Mum, dad… I didn't think I would ever have a chance to talk to you again," Hermione sobbed.

"I can't believe we forgot who you were!" Jean cried.

"You shouldn't have done it, petal," Hugo murmured fiercely.

"I had to… I had no other choice. The Death Eaters would have been able to find you so easily. Without magic, you two would have been easy targets for them to kill," Hermione said, "I just couldn't risk losing you… Even if it meant I couldn't be in your lives anymore."

"Hush," Jean soothed, "We're back now, thanks to your friend Fleur here."

Fleur was still standing nearby, hands clasped politely.

As the Grangers pulled apart, Hermione wiped her eyes.

"Mum, dad," Hermione said, "Fleur here is more than my friend. She's my girlfriend. I love her."

"Oh," Jean exclaimed, only mildly surprised, "She's lovely."

"Great catch, Hermione," Hugo smiled, patting Hermione on the shoulder.

"Wait… You aren't shocked?" Hermione asked, frowning.

"That you're interested in women?" Hugo asked with a chuckle, "Not at all. Your mother and I even used to have a running bet going on when you would realize it yourself."

"What?!" Hermione exclaimed.

"You were always a little too transfixed by the Disney princesses, dear," Jean said with a chuckle.

Fleur giggled, despite having no idea what a Disney princess was.

"I can't bloody believe this," Hermione said in disbelief, running a hand through her curls, "What else have you been keeping from me?"

"There's plenty of time for that later, petal," Hugo responded, ushering them all to take a seat, "In the meantime, lets hear about what you've been up to over the past few years."

They all sat down, Hermione finding that tears kept brimming in her eyes with happiness.

"Well, first of all, you're grandparents now," Hermione said, her voice wavering with emotion.

Jean and Hugo promptly burst into tears.

"R-Really?" Jean sobbed.

"Yes, really," Hermione said, "I named him after dad. He has Fleur's blonde hair and my curls."

"As well as Hermione's warm eyes," Fleur added with a proud smile.

"A little grandbaby?!" Jean exclaimed, "Did you hear that, dear? Named after you! Little baby Hugo!"

"We can bring him to meet you tomorrow," Fleur said warmly, "I've made sure that we have no plans tomorrow so that we can spend all day with you two and Hugo."

"You're bloody brilliant," Hermione said to Fleur, "Have I ever told you that?"

Fleur cupped Hermione's face, swiping away her tears.

"All I want is for you to be happy," Fleur said sweetly.

Hermione and Fleur spent the whole afternoon with the Grangers, catching up and talking in the bar. Then Fleur led them all to a pretty local restaurant for dinner in the village. Hermione was surprised to see her parents were now fluent in French after their years of living in the village. She made a mental note to learn the language herself.

It was late by the time Fleur and her arrived back at the Delacour estate. Hermione was holding Fleur tightly by the hand, thoroughly grateful that the blonde was her mate.

Fleur halted her outside the door of the bedroom, insisting on peeking in first.

"Good, grandmere took care of it," Fleur muttered, before opening the door to show Hermione.

The ceiling had been enchanted to show the starry night sky.

"Oui, inspired by Hogwarts and their Great Hall," Fleur said with a small smile.

"Beautiful," Hermione murmured, staring at the ceiling. Her eyes then drifted back to her gorgeous girlfriend, "But certainly not as beautiful as you."

Fleur blushed lightly, averting her eyes out of awkwardness.

"I hope you had a good birthday today," Fleur murmured.

"The very best," Hermione beamed.

"Oh… Well… Good," Fleur said, still blushing a little.

"I'm in awe of you, Fleur Delacour," Hermione said earnestly, bringing the blush out in Fleur's cheeks further.

"You flatter me," Fleur said, stormy eyes meeting Hermione's intense gaze.

"I mean it," Hermione said, "And I mean it when I say this…"

"Say what?" Fleur asked, before narrowing her eyes slightly, "You aren't trying to make me impatient again, are you?"

"Fleur Isabelle Delacour," Hermione said, sinking to one knee in front of the blonde, "I don't have a ring… And perhaps this is a little soon… But, will you do me the honour of becoming my wife?"

"Hermione!" Fleur gasped, her jaw falling open.

"Er, was it too soon?" Hermione asked, getting up quickly, "I just thought since we're bonded already, it might not be…"

"Yes, Hermione, yes!" Fleur exclaimed, tears springing in her eyes, "Of course I will be your wife!"

Hermione, relieved, pulled Fleur into a deep kiss and tight embrace.

It had been spur of the moment—so unlike Hermione—but everything about it felt right. This was who she was meant to be with. Everything about Hermione's birthday had just served to confirm that. Fleur Delacour was the person she was meant to spend the rest of her life with, and Hermione just couldn't wait to make it official.

Epilogue: approx. 3 years later.

Hermione apparated into the garden of their little cottage, running a hand through her curls. She was heading up the latest Magical Creatures regime, having already become a senior in the office.

It was her work on the review and repeals of bigoted laws three years ago that had really catapulted her career. But now she was looking forward to pushing through some new ideas. She was creating a policy meaning that any decisions involving Magical Creatures had to be approved by the appropriate Magical Creature groups affected.

"Mum!" little Hugo called out, dashing out the back door towards Hermione.

He was a troublesome child at times. He seemed to have inherited his Maman's infamous poker face, making it incredibly difficult for Hermione to catch him out when he had misbehaved. His curls were unruly, still platinum blonde.

He was wearing grey little sweatpants and a scarlet sweatshirt with a lion on it.

"Did you have a good time with Grandma and Grandpa?" Hermione asked with a smile. Hermione's parents had moved back to Britain two years ago, settling in a Muggle village nearby. They helped out a lot with childcare. When Hugo wasn't being watched by them, he was with Luna, who stayed at home to look after the one-year old she had with Harry.

Harry and Luna had been surprised by the pregnancy of little Lucy, but had been overjoyed all the same. Hermione had welcomed the addition of another 'happy accident' amongst their friend group. It gave them a couple to moan to about the pitfalls of child rearing, as well as excitedly talk to about different milestones.

"They gave me sweets," Hugo grinned, as Hermione hoisted him up and rested him on her hip.

"I hope not too many," Hermione smiled, "You don't want to ruin your appetite for dinner."

Amelie, Ginny and Ron were coming around for dinner at Fleur and Hermione's little cottage. Luna and Harry still had their hands full with Lucy, who was going through a difficult phase.

Amelie and Ginny were always available. They had yet to settle down properly, still changing addresses every six months and taking up a new hobby every three months. Hermione, for one, thought it was nice that the fiery and untamable Ginny had found her match with Amelie. They were two free spirits living life to the fullest together.

Ron was still single, much to Hermione's confusion. He was still very much charmed by Marie, even all these years later. Yet he seemed to be taking a very slow and strategic path to asking her out. It was the first time Hermione had seen Ron take something entirely seriously in the history of her friendship with him.

Hermione carried Hugo into the cottage, smiling at the delicious aroma coming from the kitchen.

"Whatever it is smells amazing, love," Hermione said to Fleur, coming to kiss her softly on the lips.

"Merci, mon amour," Fleur purred, lighting up.

"I helped Maman!" Hugo informed Hermione proudly. Hermione giggled a little. Hugo was quickly developing the ego of his Maman, and it couldn't be more adorable.

"He did," Fleur replied, smiling at their son, "Maybe you and Mum can help Maman out now?"

"Yeah!" Hugo trumpeted eagerly. Hermione quirked an eyebrow at Fleur.

"I need you to watch this food for a moment," Fleur explained, smiling easily, "I will be back in a moment."

She dropped a kiss to Hugo's forehead and pecked Hermione on the lips before sweeping out of the room elegantly.

"I wanna stir, Mum, can I?" Hugo asked in French. Hermione had mastered the language around the time Hugo had started talking. They had moved easily into becoming a bilingual household.

"Oui," Hermione replied, regretting her response as Hugo reached over and wrenched the wooden spoon in the pot, splattering red pasta sauce everywhere. No matter. Hermione could clean it later.

"Are Uncle Harry and Aunt Luna coming?" Hugo asked.

"Not tonight, darling," Hermione responded, "But your Aunt Amelie and Ginny are coming… As well as Uncle Ron."

"Uncle Ron!" Hugo exclaimed excitedly, "Can I go pick toys to show him?"

"Sure," Hermione replied, relieved that at least he had lost interest in splattering pasta sauce everywhere. She released Hugo and set him on the ground, watching with amusement as he scampered off eagerly to his toy box in the corner of the living room. Her heart was so full.

"Hermione," Fleur called out. Her voice sounded odd.

Hermione whirled around to see Fleur standing in the doorway, pale. She immediately felt a pang of panic.

"Is something wrong?" Hermione asked, stepping forward.

"Do you remember last month at Bill's birthday?" Fleur asked Hermione, her voice a little unsteady.

Hermione nodded.

"How could I forget?" Hermione responded.

Hermione's parents had taken Hugo for a sleepover, allowing Fleur and Hermione to act up with their raucous twenty-something-year-old friends for the night. Bill had thrown a wild soiree, positively drowning his guests in wine. Hermione and Fleur had let their inhibitions go for a chance, the restrained pair uncharacteristically indulging in the festivities with vigor. Hermione had suffered from her third-only hangover after that evening.

"And you remember how we got a little carried away that night?" Fleur reminded, quirking an eyebrow, "In the bathroom?"

A broad smile crept across Hermione's face unbidden. Later in the night, Fleur had yanked Hermione unceremoniously into the bathroom, locking the door. They had ended up kissing passionately, which had quickly escalated to making love passionately. They hadn't even cared when they finally left the bathroom to find a long line of party-goers impatiently waiting to use the bathroom.

"Yeah… I remember that," Hermione said with a grin. Her grin froze as she noticed Fleur was looking very serious, "What is it?"

"I'm pregnant," Fleur said, her voice a little faint, "Hugo is going to have a little sibling."

"Oh! Fleur!" Hermione exclaimed, throwing her arms around Fleur, "This is amazing! Aren't you excited?"

"It's just it is unplanned," Fleur said, melting into Hermione's embrace, "I worry you might find it too much with all that is happening with your job. They've been wanting you to go on more business trips."

"Sod the business trips," Hermione said, kissing Fleur, "Our family is growing!"

She pulled back, locking eyes with Fleur.

"You really don't mind?" Fleur asked, tears brimming in her eyes and smiling widely.

"Mind? I'm elated!" Hermione gasped, tears dropping from her own eyes, "Yeah, it isn't planned—but we always meant to get around to extending our family. Now is as good a time as any!"

"Mon amour," Fleur replied, pulling Hermione in for a kiss.