The next morning, Harry and Amelia returned to Potter Manor to prepare for the holiday. They finished their last-minute Christmas shopping and, a few days later, picked up Susan from Platform 9 3/4. Neville and his gran, Augusta, were expected to join them for Christmas Day.
The days leading up to Christmas were filled with warmth and laughter. Together, they decorated the manor, wrapped gifts by hand, and enjoyed the endless delicious treats that Alice, the house-elf, kept preparing.
On Christmas Eve, as their final round of Exploding Snap came to an end, Amelia set down her cards with a smile. "Susan, Harry and I have something we'd like to share with you."
"What's that, Auntie?" Susan asked, gathering the scattered cards.
Amelia glanced at Harry, who gave her an encouraging nod. "We're going to have a baby in August," she announced softly.
Susan froze mid-motion, her eyes wide with surprise. A moment later, a blush crept up her cheeks as she considered how that might have come about, but she quickly shook it off.
"I'm going to have a cousin?!" she exclaimed, jumping to her feet. She pulled both Harry and Amelia into an enthusiastic hug. "I'm so happy for you! Do you know if it's a boy or a girl yet?"
"It's still too early to tell," Amelia replied with a smile, "but a revealing charm will give us the answer soon. You'll be the first person we tell."
Susan nodded eagerly. "I have to tell Neville!" she cried, bolting from the room.
A moment later, Alice entered with the tea Amelia had requested, her ears twitching with excitement. "Did Alice hear correctly? Is there going to be a new little master?"
"Yes, Alice, you heard correctly," Harry confirmed with amusement.
Alice gently handed a cup of tea to Amelia before rushing at Harry and wrapping her small arms around his legs. "Thank you, Master Harry, sir! Alice is most pleased!"
"Um… you're welcome," Harry replied, bemused by her exuberance.
Christmas morning arrived, and Harry woke first, turning to press a soft kiss to Amelia's lips. His kisses trailed to her cheek, then down her neck, until she stirred with a contented sigh. Her fingers tangled in his hair as he kissed her growing belly before returning to her lips.
"Merry Christmas, Amelia," he whispered lovingly.
"Merry Christmas, Harry," she murmured, pulling him back for another kiss.
Their quiet moment was broken by loud banging on the door. "Come on! It's Christmas!" Susan's excited voice rang through.
Harry chuckled and pulled away. They dressed in warm lounging clothes and donned their dressing gowns before heading downstairs, where Susan was bouncing on her feet in anticipation.
"Finally!" she grinned, gesturing at the gifts waiting beneath the tree.
"Go on, Susan," Amelia encouraged. "You can start."
Susan tore into her presents, delighted by every carefully chosen gift. Once she was finished, they took turns opening theirs.
Harry smiled as he unwrapped Amelia's gifts: a book on Ancient Runes, a few Muggle mystery novels she'd noticed him eyeing in London, and, most touching of all, a photo album. The album held pictures of Sirius and James growing up and a few precious images of his mother after she married.
"I went through all the old photos stored in the attic at Bones Manor and put together the ones I thought you might like," Amelia explained softly.
Harry's fingers traced one of the pictures, his eyes shining with emotion. "Thank you, Amelia," he said, his voice thick. "I'll cherish these forever." He leaned over to kiss her deeply, only pulling back when Susan cleared her throat pointedly.
"You're welcome, my love," Amelia said with a smile, pressing a chaste kiss to his cheek.
When it was Amelia's turn, she opened Harry's gifts with growing delight: delicate jewellery from the Potter vault, elegant lingerie in his favourite colours, a Muggle book titled What to Expect When You're Expecting, and—most curiously—a large box containing a Muggle turntable and several vinyl records.
Amelia blinked in confusion. "What is it?"
Harry laughed at her expression. "It plays music. Hermione helped me charm it so it runs on magic instead of electricity. I thought you might keep it in your study—you like turning on the wireless when you work. This is better. I picked out some albums I thought you'd enjoy."
He demonstrated, placing the turntable on the table, selecting an album, and tapping it with his wand. The record began to spin, and soft, rich music filled the room.
Amelia's eyes lit up in wonder. She closed her eyes briefly, swaying gently with the melody. When she opened them, she beamed at Harry. "What a thoughtful gift. Thank you, Harry."
After breakfast, Neville and Augusta Longbottom arrived. Gifts were exchanged, and the cozy warmth of the day continued. Soon after, Neville and Susan excused themselves to go for a walk around the grounds.
Harry watched them leave, a knowing grin spreading across his face. "They're probably off snogging somewhere."
Amelia laughed softly, squeezing his hand. "Let them be," she said fondly, as Augusta engaged her in pleasant conversation.
Harry leaned back against the sofa, listening to Amelia's voice—gentle and steady as it filled the room. He closed his eyes, smiling as he lazily stroked the back of her hand with his thumb.
"This is the life I've been waiting for," he thought contentedly.
And for the first time, everything felt perfect.
On Boxing Day, Harry and Amelia visited Cornwall Manor to have dinner with Narcissa, Severus, and Draco. While Harry had managed to get over his initial embarrassment at seeing Narcissa and Snape holding hands in the kitchen weeks earlier, he still carefully avoided acknowledging their lingering gazes and subtle touches throughout the evening. Amelia, on the other hand, found his discomfort amusing and shot him a fond smile every time he shifted awkwardly in his seat.
After dinner, Draco and Harry found themselves alone in the lounge, the fire crackling softly in the hearth.
"How do you feel about your mother and Professor Snape?" Harry asked after a moment, curiosity getting the better of him.
Draco shrugged. "It was strange at first, but he's always been part of our lives. I suppose it's not all that different, really. I'm just glad she's found someone who makes her happy. She's been lonely for a long time."
Harry nodded thoughtfully. "You're a good son, Draco. I know you'll take good care of her when you become Lord Black."
Draco turned to look at him, his expression surprised. "When I become—what?"
Harry smiled slightly. "It's part of the betrothal agreement with Lord Greengrass. When you marry Astoria, I'll pass the title of Lord Black on to you."
Draco stared at him for a moment before recovering, a mix of gratitude and determination crossing his features. "Thank you, Potter. The Malfoy name has… suffered, thanks to my father. I think I'll be able to do far more good as a Black."
"I hope so," Harry replied, grinning as he leaned back into the chair. "Just be careful—your mother spends an awful lot of money."
Draco snorted in amusement, the tension breaking as they both shared a laugh. "Tell me something I don't know," Draco said dryly. "But I suppose that's a problem for the future Lord Black."
"Indeed," Harry said, smirking.
The two fell into a comfortable silence, the warmth of the fire filling the room as the evening continued peacefully.
O – o – o - o
As soon as Susan was safely aboard the Hogwarts Express, Harry and Amelia apparated to Bora Bora. Upon their arrival, Amelia immediately rushed to the bathroom.
"Sorry, 'Melia, I tried to make it as smooth a ride as possible," Harry said as he followed her, crouching down to rub soothing circles on her back.
"It's alright," Amelia replied, wiping her mouth and standing up shakily. "I'm hoping it'll get better in a few weeks. That book you got me says the sickness should start fading soon."
After Amelia freshened up, they toured the villa that would be their home for the next two weeks. A cheerful house-elf introduced itself and assured them everything was ready for their stay. Amelia lit up when she saw the private pool and the villa's quick access to the ocean.
"Maybe we can find a nice beach nearby," she said in a husky whisper, pulling Harry toward the loungers on the deck. "Preferably one we can walk to without apparating. You know how much I love the sand."
The rest of the day was spent in blissful relaxation, alternating between making love and talking about the baby.
"I suppose I should start putting together a nursery when we get home," Harry said as they lay curled together in a hammock, swaying gently in the warm evening breeze.
"Yes, I suppose you should," Amelia teased. "Do I get any say in the decorations?"
"Of course, 'Melia," Harry replied with a grin. "I was planning on asking Alice for help too—don't want her feeling left out."
"That's wise," Amelia chuckled. "I've been enjoying the food ever since she found out about the baby. I'd hate to go back to porridge."
Harry laughed, his eyes crinkling with amusement. After a pause, he looked at her eagerly. "Do you think it's still too early to do a revealing spell? To find out if it's a boy or a girl?"
"A spell should work by now," Amelia said thoughtfully. "If not, we can try again in a week or two. But I'm excited to know too. Are you hoping for a boy or a girl?"
Harry's face softened. "I keep imagining a little girl with your red hair and those piercing blue eyes."
Amelia laughed. "And I keep imagining a messy-haired boy with brilliant green eyes. I guess we'll have to see who gets their way."
Harry grinned, pressing a lingering kiss to her lips. "Can we try now?" he asked eagerly when they pulled apart.
Amelia laughed again at his excitement. "Alright, my love, if you insist."
He helped her out of the hammock, and they went inside to sit on the sofa. Amelia pulled out her wand, took a steadying breath, and pointed it at her still-flat belly.
"Partus Revelio," she incanted.
A swirl of light burst from her wand, spinning around her midsection before settling into two glowing orbs—one pink and one blue. Amelia gasped, her free hand covering her mouth.
"Why are there two?" Harry asked, wide-eyed, turning to Amelia for answers. When he saw her expression—tears streaming down her cheeks, a look of joy lighting up her face—it clicked.
"It's twins," she said softly, her voice trembling with happiness.
"Twins?" Harry repeated in shock, as though he needed confirmation. "We're having two babies?"
"Yes," Amelia replied, breaking into a beaming smile. "Apparently a boy and a girl. I guess we'll both get our way."
For a moment, Harry was speechless, simply staring at her with awe. Then his face broke into a wide, brilliant smile, and he pulled her in for a deep, searing kiss.
"That's wonderful, Amelia. I love you so much," he said, his hands already working to slip her thin summer dress off her shoulders.
"I love you too," she whispered as he pushed her back onto the sofa, worshipping her with kisses.
When they returned from their honeymoon, Harry quickly settled into a new routine. Tuesdays and Wednesdays were spent at Hogwarts, studying Ancient Runes under Professor Babbling. The rest of the week, he worked at the Ministry alongside Croaker. Most nights, he opted to stay at Potter Manor with Amelia rather than sleeping in his Hogwarts quarters. Hermione also stayed at the Manor on the days she wasn't at Hogwarts.
Their first morning back, Harry received his NEWT results. He smiled broadly when he saw he'd earned Outstanding marks in every subject. Amelia was quick to reward his hard work with an enthusiastic kiss—and more.
On his first day back at Hogwarts, Harry pulled Susan and Neville aside to share the big news.
"We promised you'd be the first to know," he began with a proud smile. "Amelia and I are having twins—a boy and a girl."
Susan's eyes went wide before she squealed in delight and flung her arms around him. "Twins? That's amazing, Harry!"
Neville grinned, giving Harry a hearty pat on the back. "Congratulations, mate. That's brilliant."
A couple of days later, Harry told Hermione, who reacted with similar excitement, pulling him into a tight hug.
The following morning, Harry and Amelia sat down for breakfast and opened the Daily Prophet. The headline made Harry stop mid-bite.
Weasley Matron Wins 100,000 Galleon Prize as Subscriber of the Year
Amelia watched Harry's stunned expression with a smirk. Before he could say anything, she reached across the table and squeezed his hand.
"Thank you, Amelia," Harry said once he recovered, grinning as he set the paper down.
"I didn't have to do much," Amelia replied with a smile. "She really did respond to the most articles this year. All I had to do was convince the Prophet to actually make it a prize. Of course, that very generous donation you made didn't hurt."
Harry chuckled, his heart swelling with love for the woman before him. "Still, you made it happen," he said softly, leaning over to kiss her.
"Well," Amelia teased as she returned the kiss, "I've always been good at giving people what they deserve."
Their breakfast was quickly forgotten as Harry swept her into his arms and carried her back up to the bedroom, the Daily Prophet left open on the table and the sunlight streaming warmly through the windows.
o – o – o – o – o
At the beginning of February, Amelia's morning sickness finally eased, much to Harry's relief. A small swell had begun to show in her belly, and Harry was relentless in his attempts to touch it, earning himself frequent swats from Amelia. Despite her protests, she found his excitement endearing. She couldn't help but notice how attentive he'd been—always making sure she was comfortable, calm, and cared for. Even when her emotions swung unpredictably or she snapped at him, Harry never complained, always reassuring her of his love.
Now that she was entering her second trimester, her libido had skyrocketed. To her delight, Harry was more than up to the challenge, meeting her heightened needs with enthusiasm.
At the end of the first week of February, Harry and Hermione were leaving Hogwarts to return to Potter Manor when Hermione asked an unexpected question.
"What was that, Hermione?" Harry asked, pulling his cloak tighter against the cold.
"I said, what are you putting in your basket?" she repeated with a smirk.
"What basket?" Harry asked, confused.
Hermione rolled her eyes. "For Slughorn's charity auction on Valentine's Day? You know, the one where students and staff bid on a picnic outing with someone famous? Your name is at the top of the list, right above Albus Dumbledore and Gwenog Jones."
"Oh, Merlin." Harry froze, his expression shifting from confusion to dread. "I completely forgot I agreed to that. Amelia is going to kill me. I already told her I'd take her to the villa for Valentine's Day."
Hermione chuckled, clearly enjoying his discomfort. "Good luck with that. Let me know if you need help deciding what to put in your basket," she teased before disappearing through the Floo.
That evening, Harry waited until he was halfway through Amelia's nightly foot and leg massage to broach the subject. He'd learned that timing—and keeping her relaxed—was crucial these days.
"I, um, have to cancel our plans for Valentine's Day," he said quietly, his hands still working to soothe her calves.
"Why?" Amelia's glare was sharp, though Harry couldn't tell if it was for the canceled plans or because he'd momentarily paused the massage. He quickly resumed, hoping to keep her calm.
"You remember back in September, when I was trying to cozy up to Slughorn to get information about the Horcruxes?" he asked.
Amelia nodded suspiciously.
"Well," Harry continued, his voice cautious, "apparently, I agreed to participate in his Valentine's Day charity auction. I completely forgot until Hermione mentioned it today."
Amelia sat up abruptly, pulling her feet from his lap. "You're participating in Slughorn's basket auction for Saint Mungo's?" she asked incredulously.
"Um, yes," Harry said hesitantly, knowing he was teetering on thin ice.
"So, you're just going to leave your pregnant wife alone on our first Valentine's Day together to attend some feast and then go on a picnic with some hussy who claims to be your biggest fan?" she snapped, her voice rising. Tears welled in her eyes, and Harry's panic surged.
"Um, well—that's to say—" Harry stammered, running a hand through his hair nervously. He was fairly certain the "hussy" part wasn't true, but he wasn't foolish enough to argue.
Taking a deep breath, Harry leaned forward and pulled Amelia into a deep, passionate kiss. When he finally pulled back, he took her hands in his and spoke with quiet conviction.
"Amelia, I love you, and I'm so sorry I forgot about this. You are the only person I want to spend Valentine's Day with. We can spend the entire day together before the feast, and I'll make the absolute worst basket anyone's ever seen so no one bids on it. It'll be fine—you'll see."
Amelia sighed, her anger fading as she took a deep breath. "I'm sorry, Harry. I don't know why I got so upset about this."
"You have nothing to apologise for," Harry said, squeezing her hands. "But honestly, I didn't mention it back in September because it didn't seem important at the time. I had so much on my mind, and it felt ages away." He hesitated. "I'd pull out now if I could, but it would be rude, especially since I skipped all of Slughorn's Slug Club dinners."
Amelia nodded reluctantly. "You're right. I suppose I'll settle for spending the day with you. But if you pull something like this next year, Harry James Potter, I will build you a doghouse just so I can make you sleep in it."
Harry couldn't help but laugh. "It's a deal, love," he said, pulling her back into his arms.
"It is a dog house isn't it?," Amelia asked, her voice muffled against his shoulder.
"Yes it is," Harry replied with a chuckle, pressing a kiss to her temple. " I love you, Amelia."
"I love you too, Harry," she whispered, finally relaxing into his embrace.
o – o – o – o – o
On Valentine's Day, Harry started the morning by bringing Amelia breakfast in bed. They spent the rest of the morning wrapped up in each other, but in the early afternoon, Amelia was called into the Ministry. With a few hours to himself, Harry enlisted Alice's help to assemble the worst picnic basket he could imagine, filled with tinned sardines, mouldy bread, and rancid cheese. Satisfied that no one in their right mind would want it, he headed back to Hogwarts.
After arriving, Harry sought out Susan and Hermione, pulling them into an empty classroom.
"Hey, I need your help," he began. "Amelia's really upset about this whole Valentine's Day basket thing. I made the worst basket I could think of, but if someone actually bids on it, I need one of you to make sure you win."
Susan grinned mischievously. "Alright, Uncle. We'll do what we can to keep you safe from Aunt Amelia's wrath. I know from experience it's not something you want to deal with."
Harry let out a relieved laugh. "Thanks."
That evening, the Valentine's Day feast turned out to be surprisingly enjoyable. Harry missed being at the villa with Amelia, but he found himself enjoying the lively conversation with his friends and the wide array of treats. When the meal ended and the tables were cleared, Slughorn stood at the head table and addressed the hall.
"Good evening, my dear students and staff! Tonight, we conclude our festivities with a charity auction in support of Saint Mungo's. Each basket was lovingly prepared by someone well-known, and the winner will enjoy a one-hour picnic with its maker. Let us begin!"
With a wave of his wand, ten picnic baskets appeared on the head table.
"First up, we have this delightful basket of sherbet lemons, chocolate frogs, licorice snaps, and butterbeer, prepared by our esteemed headmaster, Albus Dumbledore. Bidding starts at one Galleon!"
The hall buzzed with excitement. Hermione placed a bid but was outmatched by McGonagall, who won the basket, just as she had in previous years. Lavender Brown claimed the Daily Prophet editor's basket, while Ginny and Cho had an intense bidding war over Gwenog Jones' creation. Ginny emerged victorious, winning with a generous bid of twenty Galleons, much to Harry's amusement.
Then it was Harry's turn. Slughorn approached the final basket with visible hesitation, his nose wrinkling slightly.
"And last, but certainly not least, we have an... er... unique selection of items," Slughorn announced, eyeing the sardines and rancid cheese. "But of course, the true prize is the company of its creator—our very own Harry Potter!"
For a moment, there was silence. Harry held his breath, thinking his plan had worked, until Susan stood up with a cheeky grin.
"Five Galleons!" she called.
Hermione followed suit, raising her hand. "Ten Galleons!"
To Harry's dismay, Draco Malfoy chimed in next. "Fifteen Galleons."
As the bidding climbed, even McGonagall and Flitwick joined in. By the time it reached one hundred Galleons, the hall was in a frenzy, and Harry was beginning to regret his plan.
Suddenly, the double doors of the Great Hall burst open. Everyone turned in surprise, except for McGonagall, who merely smirked. Harry's face broke into a wide grin as Amelia strode in, a determined look on her face. He couldn't help but laugh when he saw her discreetly tuck a Weasley twin's Extendable Ear into her pocket.
"One thousand Galleons," Amelia announced in a clipped, authoritative tone, her gaze sweeping the hall.
The room fell silent, stunned.
"Any counters?" she asked, her tone daring anyone to challenge her. When no one did, she added, "No? Excellent. That settles it, Horace."
Slughorn beamed. "Yes, of course, Minister Bones. Sold to Minister Bones for one thousand Galleons!" He banged his gavel. "That concludes our charity auction. Thank you all for making this the most successful event in its history! Winners, please collect your baskets and follow me."
Harry couldn't stop laughing as he approached Amelia with his basket. He gave her a quick, chaste kiss before taking her hand and following the others outside.
At the Black Lake, ten blankets were spread under a large enchanted dome, shielding the space from the chilly February air. The atmosphere inside was warm and pleasant. Amelia and Harry chose the blanket farthest from the others and sat down.
"Harry, please get rid of that foul-smelling basket," Amelia said, wrinkling her nose.
Chuckling, Harry waved his hand, and the basket vanished, replaced with a new one filled with all of Amelia's current cravings.
"Oh, yes, good choices," she said approvingly, rewarding him with a kiss before eagerly digging in.
"I told you everything would work out," Harry said cheekily.
Amelia smirked. "Yes, well, I decided I wasn't giving up my first Valentine's Day with you after all."
"I'm glad you didn't. I missed you," Harry said softly, leaning in for another kiss. This time, he kept it gentle, aware of the others nearby.
The hour passed quickly, but Harry and Amelia weren't ready to let the evening end. As soon as they stepped through the Floo back at Potter Manor, they continued their celebration, savouring every moment together.
o – o – o – o – o
At the end-of-term feast, Dumbledore stood to address the school, his serene smile tinged with nostalgia.
"As this year comes to a close, I must announce that I will be retiring. Starting next term, Professor McGonagall will take over as Hogwarts' new headmistress."
The announcement was met with a mix of cheers and stunned silence, but Harry wasn't surprised. About a month earlier, McGonagall had interrupted dinner at Potter Manor to share the news with Amelia. Harry could tell she was nervous about taking on the role, but he had no doubt she'd excel.
The following day, Harry took the Hogwarts Express to King's Cross Station for the last time. Amelia couldn't be there, as she was stuck at Hogwarts discussing plans with McGonagall. After arriving at the station, Harry apparated himself and Susan to Potter Manor. While Susan went to unpack, Harry headed to the nursery to inspect the final touches the house-elves had made.
With about five weeks left of Amelia's pregnancy, Harry wanted to ensure everything was perfect. Twins often came early, and he didn't want to be caught unprepared. The nursery was ready—cribs perfectly aligned, soft yellow and green accents adorning the walls, and tiny clothes neatly folded. Satisfied, he went to the library to do some research for his projects with Croaker, knowing Amelia would be home soon.
Meanwhile, Amelia was sitting at McGonagall's desk, trying to ignore the small, annoying contractions that had been coming and going all day.
"Why did you ask me here, Minerva?" she asked, trying not to sound irritable.
McGonagall smiled slightly, unbothered by her friend's tone. "I need to ask you a favour, Amelia."
"Minerva, you know I'll do whatever I can for you, but I'm about to give birth any day now. Are you sure this is the best time for favours?" she replied, rubbing the massive swell of her belly tenderly.
"It's nothing urgent. Just something I'd like you to consider," McGonagall assured her.
Amelia sighed. "Alright, what am I thinking about?"
"Well," Minerva began, "Professor Snape has decided to leave teaching to focus on potioneering full-time. And, despite the curse being lifted with the destruction of the diadem, we're still struggling to find someone qualified to take over Defence Against the Dark Arts. I'd like you to consider taking the position next year."
Amelia blinked in surprise. "Minerva, I'm the Minister of Magic. I can't just switch careers overnight."
McGonagall leaned forward earnestly. "Amelia, being Minister was never your dream. Teaching would give you more time with your family, less stress, better hours. You'd be shaping young minds, something I know you'd find more fulfilling than mountains of paperwork. Severus has even agreed to stay until Yule to cover your maternity leave."
Amelia stared at her, the weight of the offer sinking in. "I'll think about it," she said finally. "I need to talk it over with Harry first. I'll let you know by the end of the month."
"Thank you, Amelia. That's all I ask."
As Amelia stood to leave, McGonagall smiled. "I expect to be the first guest invited over once you're ready for visitors."
Amelia laughed. "You and Narcissa will be fighting for that spot. I promise, Minnie, you'll be among the first." With that, she flooed home.
When Amelia returned to Potter Manor, the contractions were more intense and frequent. She found Harry in the library. He immediately ran to her, pulling her into a passionate kiss before kneeling to kiss her belly softly. His attentiveness throughout her pregnancy hadn't wavered, and Amelia felt a rush of gratitude.
"So, what did Minerva want?" he asked as he settled her on the loveseat.
"She wants me to take over the Defence Against the Dark Arts position," Amelia explained. "Snape's leaving, and apparently no one else has applied."
Harry's eyebrows shot up. "Wow. And what do you want to do?"
Amelia sighed, running a hand over her belly. "I don't know. She made some good points. I'm so excited about these babies, Harry. I want to be home with them as much as possible. Being Minister takes up so much time, and I don't want to miss these moments stuck behind a desk."
Harry took her hand, his voice gentle. "I'll support whatever you decide. But I think you'd be an amazing professor. And I'd get to see you more, which is definitely a bonus."
Amelia smiled and kissed him, appreciating his unwavering support.
That night, Amelia struggled to sleep. By 3 a.m., she woke to a sharp pain and the sensation of water pooling beneath her. Her breath hitched as another contraction hit, this one sharper than before. An hour later, the contractions were steady and strong. She shook Harry awake.
"Harry," she said urgently. "Harry!"
He stirred groggily. "Hmm?"
"It's time," she said through gritted teeth.
"Time for what?" he mumbled, still half-asleep.
"The babies are coming, Harry! We need to go to St. Mungo's."
His eyes shot open, and he sat up. "The babies—what? The babies are coming!" He grinned, then scrambled out of bed in a flurry of panic. "I'll get the hospital bag!"
Harry bolted into the nursery, returning moments later with the bag in hand. He gave Amelia a kiss and then apparated—forgetting to take her with him.
Amelia rolled her eyes, waiting on the bed as another contraction hit. A couple of minutes later, Harry reappeared, looking sheepish.
"Sorry, 'Melia," he said, wrapping his arms around her as much as her belly allowed. "But I did tell them you're on your way. They're getting a room ready for you."
This time, he remembered to take her with him, and they arrived at St. Mungo's together.
Several hours later, Harry and Amelia sat side by side in a hospital bed, each cradling a tiny, swaddled infant. Amelia looked utterly exhausted, but her face was lit with the most radiant smile Harry had ever seen. He pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.
"They're perfect," she whispered, gazing down at the baby girl in her arms.
"They're the most beautiful babies I've ever seen," Harry agreed. He looked down at his daughter, his eyes soft with wonder. "This one looks just like her mama. I'm going to be in real trouble with two of you giving me those puppy-dog eyes."
Amelia chuckled weakly. "Well, I'm sure I'm in just as much trouble if this little one inherits your lopsided grin," she replied, glancing at their son.
Harry leaned over, kissing her again. "I love you, Amelia."
"I love you too, Harry."
And for a moment, the world felt perfectly still, as if it was just the four of them, wrapped in love and possibility.
o – o – o – o – o
Two days after the twins were born, Amelia and Harry were finally able to bring them home. Their first days as parents were a whirlwind of late-night feedings, nappy changes, and trying to catch precious moments of sleep. Thankfully, Alice proved to be a blessing, often stepping in to help at night so the new parents could rest. Harry quickly decided that this year's Christmas gifts for Alice and the house-elves would be especially generous.
Two weeks later, they welcomed their first visitors: Draco, Narcissa, and Minerva.
"I would like to introduce you to Edgar James," said Harry, carefully handing the small bundle to Narcissa.
"And Liliana Susan," Amelia said as she placed their daughter into Minerva's arms.
The new headmistress looked at the baby girl, her expression softening before she glanced up at Harry with a wry smile. "I'm not sure whether to look forward to them coming to Hogwarts or dread it. Something tells me they'll have the same penchant for trouble as their father."
Everyone laughed, though Harry looked mock-offended. "Hey! I wasn't that bad."
Amelia smirked. "Perhaps if their mother is one of their professors, it will keep them out of some trouble."
Minerva gasped, her gaze darting to Amelia. "Does that mean…?"
Amelia nodded, a soft smile gracing her lips. "Yes, Minerva. I'll be joining your staff in the new year."
McGonagall's face lit with joy. "That's wonderful news, Amelia! I couldn't have hoped for a better addition to the staff."
After Draco and Narcissa departed, Amelia and Harry shared a quiet moment with Minerva. They then asked if she would do them the honour of being Edgar's godmother. Tears welled in Minerva's eyes as she hugged them both tightly.
"It would be my greatest honour," she said, her voice trembling with emotion.
The next day, Hermione came to visit. When Amelia and Harry asked her to be Liliana's godmother, she nearly fainted from shock. Once she recovered, she accepted with an enthusiasm that brought smiles to their faces.
Kingsley was named Edgar's godfather, and Neville was chosen for Liliana. Both men were deeply touched, eagerly embracing their new roles in the children's lives.
As Harry and Amelia's first wedding anniversary approached, they decided to spend a night away at the villa, leaving the twins in Narcissa's capable hands.
At just over four months old, Edgar and Liliana were already beginning to show distinct personalities. Edgar was calm and observant, while Liliana was more vocal and spirited.
Parenthood had been an adjustment for both Harry and Amelia, but neither would have changed it for the world.
That evening, they enjoyed a quiet, baby-free dinner overlooking the ocean. They laughed when they realised most of their conversation revolved around the twins, even though they weren't there.
"Well," Amelia said with a content smile, "at least I finally have something other than work to talk about."
Harry reached across the table, taking her hand. "I can't imagine anything better to talk about than our family."
In January, Amelia formally resigned as Minister of Magic and began her new role as Defence Against the Dark Arts professor at Hogwarts. Though her tenure as Minister was the shortest in history, she left an indelible mark, transforming the Ministry into a well-managed, efficient institution. Kingsley Shacklebolt succeeded her and found the transition seamless, thanks to Amelia's careful planning.
Around the same time, Harry was offered a full-time position as an Unspeakable. The role provided the flexibility he needed to balance work with family life, and he accepted without hesitation, knowing it would allow him to be home with the twins while Amelia was teaching.
Shortly after the twins' first birthday, Susan and Neville were married in a beautiful ceremony at Bones Manor. As a wedding gift, Harry had five greenhouses built for Neville, who was thrilled beyond words. The couple moved into Bones Manor, further solidifying the close bond between the Potters and the newlyweds.
The following summer, just days before the twins turned two, Draco married Astoria in a grand celebration. The day after the wedding, Harry took Draco to Gringotts, formally passing on the Black family title to him. Along with it came the deeds to several properties and estates, ensuring Draco's future as the new Lord Black.
Later that same day, Harry and Amelia received life-changing news—they were expecting again. The couple was overjoyed, though Amelia couldn't help but laugh at Harry's stunned expression when the healer confirmed it.
Two weeks after Narcissa and Severus' wedding the following year, Sirius Alastor Bones was born. His name honoured both Harry's godfather and a man who had been like a father to Amelia.
Susan and Draco were chosen as his godparents, each touched by the trust and love Harry and Amelia had in them. As they held the newest addition to the Potter-Bones family, they promised to guide and protect him, just as Harry and Amelia had always done for them.
The years ahead promised to be filled with more laughter, chaos, and love than Harry and Amelia could have ever dreamed.
o – o – o – o – o
Eight years later, Edgar and Lilliana started their first year at Hogwarts. Most of their childhoods had been filled with love and laughter, running through the halls of Hogwarts during lessons or spending time at the Manor. They shared many adventures with their extended family, and especially their beloved "Aunt Cissy," who spoiled them shamelessly. Their younger brother Sirius was always close behind, often joining in their mischief with his signature grin.
Lilliana, bold and outspoken, had inherited her father's "saving-people thing," while Edgar was quieter and more observant, fiercely loyal like his mother. Sirius, the youngest, was exceptionally clever, with a sharp wit and a kind heart that endeared him to everyone. Together, the Potter-Bones siblings were a force to be reckoned with, their bond unbreakable.
Their childhoods, though idyllic in many ways, were not without their challenges. Whispers of long-buried threats had once cast a shadow over their early years, forcing Harry and Amelia to draw on every ounce of their courage and skill to keep their family safe. Though they rarely spoke of those dark days, the scars they bore—both seen and unseen—made the happiness they now enjoyed all the sweeter.
A letter arrived just days after the Sorting Ceremony:
Dear Mum,
Dad said to write and tell you that I got sorted into Hufflepuff, just like you thought I would. You'll be happy to know Lily got sorted into Gryffindor like Dad (she says you might get a letter from her too).
Hogwarts is as amazing as it always has been, but it feels different being a student. I've already made lots of friends—though everyone seems to want to talk to me because I'm your son. I couldn't be more proud.
Don't worry about me. I know Dad will keep a watchful eye on me as he always does. See you soon!
Love,
Eddie
Amelia smiled as she folded the letter, her heart swelling with pride.
The years that followed were a blur of growth, milestones, and cherished memories. Each of their children finding their own path.
Edgar, ever the quiet thinker, opened a thriving apothecary after finishing Hogwarts. His meticulous nature and keen eye for detail made him a master in his craft.
Lilliana followed in her mother's footsteps and became an Auror, earning a fierce reputation for her bravery and determination. Her knack for outwitting even the most cunning dark wizards would have reminded many of Amelia in her prime.
Sirius pursued a mastery in Charms, eventually taking over as the Charms professor at Hogwarts when Flitwick retired early. His humour and warmth made him a beloved figure among students and staff alike.
All three married for love, building their own families and gifting Harry and Amelia with ten grandchildren who filled their lives with joy and chaos.
When the last of their grandchildren left Hogwarts to forge their own paths, Harry and Amelia retired to the villa in France. It was a peaceful, idyllic life—a reward for everything they had endured.
Yet, in the quiet moments under the stars, a sense of lingering possibility remained, as though their story wasn't quite finished after all.