AN: This is it—the final chapter. I want to thank everyone who has read and hope you all enjoyed it. I know it's been a bit different, but that's part of the ride. I also want to thank everyone who favorites, follows, and reviews, especially you, Alkeniw Andilite. I have greatly enjoyed seeing where your thought process on the story would go. It really made my day to see your review, so thank you.

I still own nothing but a few OCs. Now, the last chapter of Dragon Heartstring.

"So as long as I live, I'll love you

Will have and hold you.

You look so beautiful in white."

Beautiful in White by Westlife

Chapter 13

"Alright, so where would we like to have the wedding—France or Britain?" I asked, biting the end of my pen as I stared down at the paper, the only words scribbled on it was Wedding Plans.

Fleur leaned over my shoulder wearing a thoughtful expression. "I zought it would be obvious, mon amour," she replied before planting a kiss on my cheek.

I blushed at the cute gesture, quickly pushing past it to frown at her comment. "How is that supposed to be obvious? We're from two different countries. I don't want friends and families from either to miss out."

The blonde sighed, "You know my life is in Britain, 'ermione. Just because my family lives 'ere doesn't mean Britain 'olds less value to me. After I graduated Beauxbatons, I lost contact with almost all of my friends."

I couldn't help but be overwhelmed with guilt. "That was because of me, wasn't it?"

Fleur snorted, "Non, not really. I mean it's not like I found ze love of my life and got pregnant or anyzing." My face fell further. "'ermione, I don't blame you for what 'appened. With ze bond and ze return of Voldemort, my focus shifted. I 'ad more important zings to worry about zan who was kissing someone else's boyfriend or whatever ze current gossip was. I don't regret 'ow zings turned out, especially since we won ze war."

"I know, but I feel bad. I don't want to keep you from your old friends or anything. You should get back in touch with some of them and hang out sometime," I urged.

She shook her head, "I don't have much desire to reconnect with anyone. It's not zat I don't appreciate ze friendships I 'ad, I just grew up. So much 'as 'appened in ze past few years. I've made even stronger bonds with people you care about, too. We can still invite some people from school, but my future is with you."

I studied my mate for several moments, still feeling guilty. She sighed and drew near, leaning down to press her lips to mine. I reciprocated her kiss, snickering when she tried to deepen the action.

"Fleur, we have a wedding to plan. There will be time for that during the honeymoon," I reminded my fiancée as I drew away.

She shrugged, "Why can't we 'ave it now and zen?"

Laughing, I swatted the girl away. "Behave, Fleur, or else I will sic mum on you. She's been harassing me about the wedding ever since I returned their memories. I think she wants to know and be involved as a way for me to make up for what I did."

"Well zen, I suggest you get working to apologize more, non?"

I sighed heavily, "You're not going to help me with this, are you?"

The Veela smirked, "I offered to 'elp with zings, but you told me to wait."

"Yeah, because you're insatiable and we wouldn't get anything done. The sooner you help me and we get this over with, the sooner you can have your way with me again."

Fleur seemed to contemplate this for a moment before crossing her arms. "I already 'elped you. I answered ze only question you asked, so if anyzing, you're ze one who needs to get a move on it."

I glared at her. "You're really asking for trouble now, aren't you? Fine. We will get married in Britain. The next question is where at? Neither mine nor my parent's house is big enough for a wedding and reception. We could ask the Weasley's if we could get married at the Burrow, but I don't want to intrude."

"It wouldn't 'urt to ask. Zey are like family, too, after all. We've got nozing to lose. If zey say non, we will find somezing else."

I nodded and wrote our two decisions down. We continued working for some time, sorting out all of the little details. A date would be dependent on whether we got a location soon or not.

Not wanting to be rude or impersonal, Fleur and I apparated to the Burrow the following day to ask.

Knocking on the door, we waited to be let in. A few moments later, the door swung open, and we were greeted by Ginny.

Her face lit up as she saw us. "Hermione, Fleur! What are you two doing here?" she asked, stepping aside to let us in. The usual chaos that I had grown used to was still subdued, the family still dealing with the loss of Fred.

"Well, actually, we came to speak with your parents about something," I informed.

Her eyes narrowed as she studied us, likely debating what we were up to. "Mum's in the kitchen, but dad's at work. He should be getting home soon, though. What do you need to talk to them about?"

I grinned, "Nothing that concerns you."

The redhead huffed teasingly. "And here I thought you had come to see me. So much for friendship."

Fleur chuckled, "Oh, but you are, believe me. We just need to figure somezing out before we tell you just 'ow dear you are."

This perked Ginny up, even more curious about what was going on. We moved passed her, not giving her the satisfaction of knowing our purpose yet. Instead, we made our way to the kitchen, where Molly was sitting while nursing a cup of tea. She seemed a bit paler than usual, dark rings under her eyes. I felt terrible for the motherly woman, seeing how she was handling the death of one of her children.

"Bonjour, Molly," Fleur greeted as we entered the still tidy room.

The redheaded mother looked up, instantly lighting up as she rose to greet us.

"What are you two doing here?" she asked happily as she gave us both hugs. "If I had known you were coming I would have prepared some sweets or something. Come, sit down, can I get you some tea instead?"

I smiled, seeing her come back to life as her maternal instincts took over. She was already getting the water heated before I even answered. "Tea would be lovely, thank you. And we actually wanted to talk to you and your husband about something."

"Arthur should be getting home in a little bit. We were planning to go out for dinner before dropping off some things at Ron and Harry's apartment, but I can whip up something instead. You should come say hi to the boys—I'm sure they'd love to see you both. They're enjoying their training."

I was glad to hear that my best friends were doing well. I missed them and quickly nodded. "That would be great, actually. We have something to ask them, anyways. This will be a great chance to reconnect with them. We can talk to Ginny about everything then as well."

The tea was placed in front of us before Molly set out to start dinner. Fleur and I offered to help, not wanting to be rude for the intrusion, though the woman dismissed us. She had always been in her element in the kitchen, and I knew it was therapeutic as well.

When her husband came home, he sat down with us, signaling for us to ask our request.

"Well, as you know, Fleur and I have been engaged for a while now. We were going to wait until after I graduated to get married, but mum has been pestering us for a date. With everything that has happened, we realized we don't want to wait any longer. Since it'll be a while before I return to school anyways, we decided to go ahead and tie the knot," I stated.

Molly rushed over to give us an excited hug. Arthur shook my hand before giving Fleur a hug as well. "Congratulations, both of you. You're such a great couple. It's an exciting time, planning a wedding," the woman beamed.

"Oui, which brings us to our dilemma, zough," Fleur continued before looking at me.

"We were wondering, well, hoping rather, if we could have our wedding here?" I asked before added quickly, "If not that's alright; we know it's a lot to ask. We just love it here—it's like another home to both of us. If it's too much trouble, we can find another place…"

The couple exchanged a look before smiling softly. "Hermione," Molly began, "you and Fleur are like our own children. We would be honored to let you have your wedding here. You don't need to feel bad for asking. It'll be good to have something joyous happen after such a dark time. We'd love to help."

I exhaled with relief. Fleur also relaxed next to me. "Thank you so much," I grinned. "You won't even really need to do anything—our own families can. I'd hate to trouble you more. We will get everything set up and clean up afterwards. We're really grateful for everything you've done for us."

"Nonsense, girls," Arthur dismissed. "Like we said, you're family, too. Our home is yours. We're happy for you. It's no trouble, really."

We continued talking, telling the couple of our thoughts and ideas for our big day. When dinner was ready, we cut the conversation short, having told them we wanted to surprise the others later that evening with Ron and Harry.

Ginny was still suspicious of us, staring intently while we ate. I smirked knowing how frustrated she was becoming at not knowing what we were up to.

After dinner, we joined the family at the boy's apartment. Fleur and I hadn't been there, so we were given a tour after my best friends got over their excitement at seeing us. It wasn't a large place, and it was a bit messy, which fit them perfectly. They were happy, and that was most important.

We sat, listening to Ron and Harry drone on about their work. Even though I wanted nothing more to do with hunting down dark wizards, I enjoyed seeing them so animated about something other than Quidditch for the first time in their lives.

"So, what brought you and Fleur here, though?" Harry asked teasingly. "I know it's not because you actually wanted to see us."

I frowned at the boy. Even though we stayed in touch, I hadn't asked about their new apartment or mentioned any desire to meet up. "I'll have you know we've been rather busy lately," I defended.

"Yeah, Merlin knows you two can't stop shagging for a moment to visit friends," Ginny grumbled before being swatted by her mother.

"Watch your language, young lady," the woman warned, only too late. Ginny rubbed her arm while glaring at us, as if we were the ones who got her in trouble. I couldn't help but laugh at her, though, truly missing the liveliness of my friends.

"No, actually, we've been busy with something big. That was why we were at the Burrow, and also why we're here now, too," I informed. "We were asking your parents if we could hold our wedding at the Burrow."

At this revelation, the libations were changed to firewhiskey and butterbeer, though Fleur and I refrained.

Ron frowned as I refused the beverage. "Come on, you just tell us you're getting married, yet you won't celebrate? You really haven't changed, not being fun or anything. You know, I really thought you just wanted to do good in school, but you're just really this boring, aren't you?"

I chuckled, "Actually, Ron, we don't want to smell like alcohol around the kids. Besides, Fleur gets a little carried away if she drinks too much."

The Veela smirked, leaning towards me seductively, "I 'aven't done zat in a while. Not zat you're complaining, right?"

I blushed and rolled my eyes. "Anyways, we've been sorting things out and making plans for the wedding. Obviously it's going to be a bit untraditional, as we're both women, unless you count my true form, but that's a bit more complicated, and…"

As I began to get lost in my ramblings, Fleur cleared her throat. Looking around now, I noticed the amused or bored look each face sported.

"Oh, right, got a bit carried away again, huh?" I chuckled lightly, thinking of how things hadn't changed much. "So we still want to keep most of the aspects as normal as possible. That means we will need best men and such. Since the title of groom fits me better, Ron and Harry, I was wondering if you'd be willing to stand by my side on my big day?"

Both faces lit up. "You want us in your wedding? Hermione, why are you even asking? Of course, we'd be honored!" Harry beamed. Ron eagerly nodded in agreement, and I threw my arms around them.

"Thank you, both. You're the best brothers I could have ever asked for," I grinned, feeling the tears sting my eyes.

I pulled away, wiping them before they fell, and turned to Fleur. She cleared her throat and looked at Ginny, who started bouncing in her seat.

"My sister, Gabrielle, is going to be ze Maid of Honor," she began, "but as 'ermione 'as two friends with 'er, I would love it if you would be a bridesmaid. I know we aren't as close, but I'd like zat to change. I know 'ow much you mean to 'ermione, and I'm grateful for you always being zere for 'er during school and everyzing."

Ginny sprang out of her chair and launched herself at Fleur, throwing her arms around the blonde. "Yes! Merlin, yes, I accept! I thought you'd never ask!"

I laughed, "Good grief, Gin, you make it sound like Fleur proposed to you or something!"

The group laughed at my comment, and Ginny grinned shyly. "No, though I am waiting for that question from someone else," she stated, glancing expectantly towards Harry. "I'm just glad I won't have to help you get ready, 'mione. You never cared for dresses or makeup, the only things that really matter to a girl on her wedding day."

Fleur frowned, "What's wrong with zat? I zink she looks spectacular in a tuxedo. Even more so out of it." Her eyes flashed golden with desire, and I sighed at my mate.

"Behave, Fleur," I warned, as the room was filled with chuckles and uncomfortable shifting, which belonged mainly to Ron. Even if he didn't have an issue with our relationship, I knew he still struggled with the physical aspect, tending to ponder what it was like. I had hexed him more than a few times at the comments he would make while we were on the run. Our sex life was none of his business, and it slightly disturbed me he thought about it so much.

Nevertheless, conversation resumed while we told the redheaded family plus Harry what our plans were for our day of union. It was a bit odd in a sense, considering we were already united in the most intimate way possible, our very souls joined together as one. An actual wedding was more of a way for the world to recognize us.

"So," Arthur began, clasping his hands together as he leaned forward, "when do you want the wedding to take place? I mean, that is kind of the biggest detail we've yet to discuss."

I looked at Fleur. "Well, we haven't exactly picked a date. We wanted to get a location first, but I guess as soon as possible? There's really no reason to wait any longer than we've already had to. Does that work for you, love?"

The blonde smiled happily, "Of course, mon amour. I'd marry you tomorrow if I could, but unfortunately zat wouldn't be much time to get everyzing ready and allow for all of our friends and families to get away from work and such."

"Why not make it in one month, then?" Molly suggested. "You'll be able to fill out the application for a marriage license and get all of the paperwork filed away. Plus you can send out the invitations. It's a bit soon still, but it's far enough to work for most I would imagine."

Fleur nodded in agreement. "Merci, zat is a wonderful idea. My family can Floo in from time to time and 'elp set everyzing up ze closer it gets. I'm certain zey'd offer ze 'ouse elfs."

The entire sea of eyes widened in horror and flashed to me. I couldn't help but laugh at everyone's reaction. "Yes, I know that the Delacour's have elfs, but don't worry, they're hired employees. Believe me, I had a bit of an issue with it when I first learned, but Fleur quickly reassured me about their employment."

The room visibly relaxed, an audible sigh evident of everyone's concern. "It's nice to know 'ow 'ighly everyone zinks of my family," Fleur chuckled. "We're magical creatures, too, as is my mate. We're not going to 'old ourselves above ozers."

"You're right, dear," Molly admitted with a frown. "We're sorry we judged you. Hermione has been going on for years about the equality of magical creatures. We're glad you feel the same way, though I suppose it's also about self-preservation."

Fleur shrugged, "I don't know if I'd call it zat—just be ze best person you can be."

"Which is exactly why I'm marrying you next month," I grinned. "But for now, we should really get going. We'll need to get to work quickly if it's going to actually happen then. Thank you again for everything, and we'll be in touch."

We exchanged hugs with the family, promising to see them soon, before heading back to France. With a date set, we agreed to tell my parents the next day, only after informing Fleur's family.

When mum found out we had a location and date for the wedding, she nearly broke down in tears of joy. "My little baby's all grown up!"

Fleur laughed while my face burned with embarrassment. "Mum, please, I've fought in wars and became a parent—I think I've been an adult for some time now…"

Dad grinned, wrapping his arm around me. "Well, sure, those things are pretty serious and show your maturity, but getting married is different."

I rolled my eyes. "I really don't see how, especially the skipping marriage part to have kids, but whatever. Glad you're both happy, I guess."

Mum lifted her head proudly. "Of course I am—I'm thrilled. I've been waiting for this to happen since you told us Fleur was pregnant. It was obvious how in love you two were, even back then. I knew it would happen eventually; I just wanted to be a part of that. I know you likely won't be the one walking down the aisle, but still, we want to be there for you."

We took the conversation to the living room so my parents could play with Damien and Isabelle. They were amazed at how big the twins had gotten, something I was grateful to get to witness for myself now. It truly made me happy, seeing my little family finally at peace. I prayed my children would never have to know the horrors Fleur and I had witnessed.

With each day, plans for the wedding became realities. Fleur and I went to the Ministry to apply for a marriage license. Even though the government was still in shambles and working to recover, Minister Shacklebolt approved our request, on the condition he was in attendance.

We were more than happy to comply, having already planned to invite him as an key member of the Order. With everything in place to happen, invitations were sent out. All of our closest friends and families were invited, as we wanted to share our special day with the ones we loved.

The closer the day drew nearer, July 13th, reality set in for me. It wasn't that I had cold feet or any absurd doubts that Fleur was the one I was destined to be with—I was literally going to be marrying my soulmate. I was just terrified I would mess something up; that something would go wrong and Fleur wouldn't be happy on her big day.

I went over this countless times in my mind, stating how silly it was to worry. We had been preparing for everything so our wedding would be perfect. We even had security, a measure that many parties and big events now employed after Bill and Chelsea's wedding fiasco.

I had the ring. I had the tuxedo. I had literally everything I could think of down to the most minute detail. Every table, every chair, every little thing. But I was still terrified something would happen.

As I paced back and forth outside the large white tent the day before the wedding, my mind racing over what I could do, I felt arms wrap around my midsection.

"Breaze, mon amour," Fleur murmured, kissing my cheek as I turned to look at my gorgeous fiancée, soon to be wife.

I felt my mind slow down, my heart calm a bit. I couldn't help but smile at how my body reacted to her. "I am; it's just everything else that comes with breathing," I stated before leaning in for another kiss, this time on the lips.

Fleur smiled into the kiss. "Well, 'opefully zat beautiful brain of yours will be off work tomorrow so you can enjoy yourself, too."

"I know I will, Fleur, it's you I want to make happy. I'm worried about messing something up. I've gone over everything so many times that I've lost count, but I still feel like I'm missing something. I worry it won't be good enough for you…"

Fleur stared deep into my eyes at my confession, holding my face between her hands and she called me to focus on her. "'ermione, please stop worrying. We 'ave been both been working so 'ard on making zis dream of ours a reality. We've wanted zis since we were much younger. We were only children zen, 'onestly, and now zat we're adults, we will finally fulfill our dreams. I love you, 'ermione, so please love me enough to just be 'ere with me when ze time comes."

I exhaled slowly, willing myself to calm even further. "I do love you, Fleur. I will do my best for you."

She smiled softly, "You always do, mon amour. Why don't you take a break and play with ze twins for a bit? I zink zat will 'elp your overactive mind. And don't try to argue; I will take care of everyzing. It's not like zere is actually anyzing left for us to prepare for. We're not like ze Weasley's, waiting till ze last moment."

We shared a laugh as we remembered how chaotic Bill and Chelsea's wedding preparations had been.

"Alright; I'll spend some time with them. If anything happens, though, promise you'll find me? I'll help with anything you need," I provided.

Fleur shook her head, though. "Non. You need to rest a bit. I don't want you to get ill, stressing yourself too much. It won't be good for ze 'oneymoon—you'll need all of your energy for what I 'ave planned for you."

I chuckled, "So long as it includes actual sleep, I'm all for it."

With that, I apparated back to my parent's house. They had been watching the twins, who perked up when they spotted me.

"Mum, come play with us," Damien pleaded, bringing me one of his toys. I took it from him and gave him a kiss before dropping down next to Isabelle. Planting a kiss on her head as well, I started moving the plush character around as if it was walking.

"So, is everything ready for tomorrow?" Mum asked as she returned with a cup of tea for me.

I took the beverage and sipped before replying. "Yeah, I guess it's as good as it's going to get. Fleur kicked me out, saying I've been pushing myself too hard. It's not like tomorrow's one of the biggest days of our lives or anything."

"Don't worry, mum, you'll do great! You always do," Isabelle reassured, a wide grin on her adorable face. Her blue eyes shining with adoration and glowing blonde hair reminded me so much of Fleur.

I smiled softly, rubbing her back gently. "Thanks, baby girl, I know it will because you two will be helping."

"Do we 'ave to?" Damien groaned.

"Don't you want to help your maman and mum on their big day?" dad pressed playfully. "I'm pretty sure they offered you a new toy if you do a good job, didn't they?"

Upon remembering the deal we had struck, the dark haired boy perked up, his curls bouncing as he did. "Oui! Zere is a new toy I wanted! It looked somezing like what grandma and grandpa move around in, but different. It was red and 'ad a yellow roof with a face."

"It's called a car," Isabelle informed her brother matter-of-factly. My parents and I laughed as Damien stuck his tongue out at his sister being a know-it-all.

"Be nice, Damien. There is nothing wrong with seeking out information and knowledge. And Isabelle, make sure you remember to have fun with your brother. Don't always stay buried in learning new things," I urged the twins. I knew firsthand that a balance of the two was needed.

"Oui, mum," they both agreed reluctantly before returning to their toys.

[X]

I didn't see Fleur again that evening. She insisted keeping up with the Muggle tradition of the bride not seeing the groom until she walked down the aisle. I hated not having her next to me as I lay in bed.

Rolling over to look at the clock, I saw that it was just after two in the morning. I had to be up at eight to get the kids fed. The wedding wasn't until three in the afternoon, but I wanted to go over everything once more. Luckily Fleur wouldn't be with me to stop me from overstressing to make sure all was perfect.

I sighed, tossing and turning as I tried to get comfortable. I was struggling with that, used to the warmth and assurance Fleur provided. My mind was free to think of all the worst case scenarios I could imagine—my biggest fear being attacked by any remaining Death Eaters. I knew it would practically be a suicide mission for them, but I couldn't help but worry. So many heroes from the war would be present. If there were to be an attack, my wedding was a perfect opportunity to strike.

I sighed, groaning into my pillow. Giving up on sleeping without help, I pulled the sleeping draught from the dresser by my bed, quickly chugging it down. While I knew the risks of sleeping alone, especially with the help of the potion, I also knew I wasn't going to be getting to sleep on my own.

After only a couple of hours, though, I was being shaken awake by my parents, worried expressions on their faces.

I was gasping for air, tears streaming down my face as I shook violently from the realistic nightmare. My arm was stinging from where I had been branded. Looking at it, I noticed how angry it looked—the scar and flesh around it a bright red. I was relieved it wasn't bleeding, but I couldn't help but cry harder.

"Mum? What's wrong?"

I looked up to see Damien and Isabelle looking worried as they stood in the doorway.

I quickly wiped my face, forcing myself to be composed as I motioned for my children to join me. "It's alright, kids. Mum just had a bad dream."

"Is it because maman isn't 'ere?" Damien speculated.

Smiling softly, I nodded, "Yes, it has something to do with that. I don't sleep well without your maman. She keeps the bad dreams away and comforts me better when I do have them."

"What do you dream about?" Isabelle asked.

I faltered at the question, not wanting to reveal the true darkness I fought at night, being forced to relive Bellatrix's torture from time to time. Her death only staved the nightmares off a little, though they were less frequent when Fleur was with me.

"Why don't we let your mum rest more, alright?" dad intervened, knowing I didn't like discussing my experiences. I hadn't told them everything about the torture, partly because I wasn't fully aware of everything the crazed witch inflicted upon me.

"But we want to 'elp…" Damien protested, frowning deeply as he studied me.

Mum shook her head, "She can tell you in the morning. You two should be asleep."

"We were, but we woke up when we 'eard mum…" Damien trailed off, his worry renewing.

I sighed heavily, knowing that the kids wouldn't let me keep getting away with not explaining. They had walked in a few times to me screaming for my life before Fleur could wake me up or shortly after. We had taken to silencing the room, only forgetting if we were utterly tired and didn't think about it.

"It's alright, come here you two," I replied, patting the bed beside me. The twins eagerly raced and jumped on, cuddling up close to me. I squeezed them, happy to have their company. While I was grateful for my parents, the twins gave me a part of Fleur that I needed so desperately.

With a sigh, I began, thinking about how I could explain what my nightmares were without giving too much detail. "You've seen the scar on my arm, right? I've tried to hide it from you two, but I know you're both sharp."

Isabelle blushed darkly, "I told Damien not to ask you about it because you always looked sad when you looked at it."

I smiled and kissed the thoughtful girl before kissing her brother for listening to her. "Yes, it does make me sad. You know how your maman and I are heroes, right? Well, sometimes heroes have to go through bad times before they could win. This scar and my nightmares are from those bad times I went through."

Damien gasped. "Why would someone want to 'urt you?"

"Because I was on the good side. Sometimes bad guys don't care that they're doing bad, and so they hurt people. It's wrong, because if you need to hurt others to get your way, then you're not helping the world."

"And that's why you've never hurt anyone! Because you're the best in the world!" Isabelle grinned.

I faltered, realizing my statement might have implicated me as well. "I'm not perfect," I corrected. "Everyone makes mistakes—it's part of life. What matters most is that you try to limit those mistakes and do your best to be as good as possible."

The twins nodded, eagerly soaking up what I was saying. "You're so smart, mum," Isabelle beamed. "I want to be just like you when I grow up."

My parents and I chuckled. "Yes, well, first of all you need to sleep so you can grow up big and strong. And you should also aspire, or want, to be like your maman. She's smart and kind and strong, too. Now why don't I take you back to bed so your grandparents can sleep, too. We've got a big day tomorrow, remember?"

With that, I rose from my bed, taking each child's hand, and led them back to their room. I tucked them in and read part of a book, stopping once they were both asleep. Feeling a bit calmer myself, I returned to my room and finally feel back to sleep, a bit more peaceful than before.

In the morning, I pulled myself out of bed, splashing my face with cold water in the bathroom to help wake myself. I looked tired as I took in my reflection. Magic would definitely be in order to make me look better for my big day.

"Merlin, I'm getting married today," I breathed, letting the reality to sink in. As it did, a huge grin lit up my face.

With a new bounce in my step, I woke the twins, taking them down for breakfast before getting ready. My parents were surprised upon witnessing my good mood, likely worried how I would be after my nightmare.

Once I had the twins showered and dressed, I side-apparated everyone to the Burrow. The twins stumbled a bit, unused to the sensation, though I explained what happened and what they would feel like. They had only experienced it a couple of times before, mostly being subjected to the more pleasant Floo travel.

Nevertheless, my parents didn't have a fireplace. Even if they did, it wasn't legal for a Muggle to be connected to the Floo network without special circumstances.

As we entered the Weasley home, though, I was amazed at the relative calm of the day. It was a little after ten, and the main things that needed to be done were the floral decorations and to make sure the food was prepared and ready to be served at the reception. Apolline had insisted that their house elfs helped Molly with the sheer amount of food that was needed. She reluctantly agreed, realizing it would be a bit much, even for her.

So the food was prepared by the elfs, cooked by Molly, and transported elsewhere for keeping until it was time.

"Hermione, dear, so good to see you. Are you ready to give up single life?" Molly greeted with a hug. She extended the action to my parents and kids.

I chuckled, "Well it's not quite like I've been single—just without the actual title of wife or husband. I'm still not quite sure which I identify with more."

"That's because you always had to be weird." I turned to see Ginny entering, grinning at her statement.

"Considering my friend choices, it's a wonder I didn't end up worse," I shot back.

The adults snickered as the redhead scowled and opened her mouth to argue back.

"You better not be about to saying anything inappropriate, Ginny," Harry warned as he walked next to his girlfriend's side. "I'd hate for Fleur to lose her bridesmaid because you said something bad in front of their children. You know 'mione wouldn't let you get away with that."

Ginny huffed. "You're all lucky I love you so much. And you two," she stated, turning to the kids, "are going to bored with your mums. You need to come stay with Aunt Ginny if you want to have some real fun. I'll take you on my broom and everything."

I frowned at the girl, "You will do no such thing. Fleur doesn't even want me flying around with them in my Dreki form. Do you honestly think she'd let you survive putting them on a broom, even with an adult?"

The redhead just shrugged, "I'm not the one who has to deal with the consequences. As far as Fleur needs to know, you told me it was fine."

"Merlin, Gin, you're going to get her killed!" Harry frowned.

"Maman won't 'urt mum; they're both good," Isabelle defended.

Ginny smiled, "Yeah, they are—much too good. Alright, why don't we go play for a bit while everyone does all of the boring, hard work?"

The twins eagerly ran after her, excited to see what kind of trouble they could get into. I sighed as I shook my head after them. Turning my focus to all that needed to be done, I threw myself into my work.

Shortly after noon, I was shoved in a back room while Fleur arrived, still not wanting to see me. I smiled as I sensed her presence nearby, desperately longing to be with her again, especially after the rough night I had. For one of the few times in my life, I hated having to be patient. But I would respect my mate's wishes to wait.

I checked myself over in the mirror for the tenth time. My tux was crisp and pristine. My hair had been tamed with Chelsea's help and her homebrewed concoction and tied up in a tight bun. Ginny had forced a bit of makeup onto my face, needing to clean my outfit after I fought and caused her to spill some powder on it. I glared at her the entire time, to which she wore a permanent wince while she worked.

I hadn't seen the need for such trivial products. I didn't care what I looked like—I knew all eyes would be on the Veela anyways. As jealous as I was certain I would feel, I was sure she would be quite stunning. She deserved to have all eyes on her.

"Alright, 'mione, it's almost time," Harry announced as he stepped into the room with me and my parents. "Are you ready?"

I drew a deep and anxious breath before nodding. "Don't worry, pumpkin, you're handsome," dad smiled, his eyes glistening with happy tears. I grabbed the couple and pulled them tight.

"I know I haven't said it enough, so I'll say it again now," I started softly. "Thank you both for everything. I love you, mum and dad. Thank you for always supporting me, no matter how much I flipped your world upside down."

"Oh, Hermione," mum sniffled, "you're our daughter. Of course we will always be here for you. We always knew you were special; we just never imagined it was to this extent."

Dad nodded, "She's right. When we chose you, we knew we were in it for the long haul. Nothing could ever stop us from loving you. We may have been forced to turn you over to the authorities if needed, but we would still love you."

I chuckled, "Yes, well, I may have gone against them a few times in my time fighting in a war. But Harry is right—it's time for me to marry my soulmate."

I made my way down to the tent, my nerves returning to get the best of me. I tried to shut my mind off, thinking of how Fleur would either chuckle or chastise me for worrying so much. This made me smile as I entered the rear of the tent and made my way towards the presiding official.

He smiled at me with a nod. "Are you ready, Miss Anderson?" the old wizard asked.

Taking a deep breath, I forced a smile. "Yes, I do believe so."

"It'll be alright—everything looks wonderful," he reassured. I nodded absentmindedly, my eyes scanning the room for any mistakes or missing decorations.

The golden and cerulean streamers lined the aisle draping along the sides of the pearly white chairs. It was a simple set of decorations, but it was indeed beautiful. We decided against putting on a show, not wanting to detract from the special moment in our lives.

My mind kept racing over how things could have been done differently. Maybe just have one color of streamer per side instead of twisting them loosely together. And what of the blue carpet runner? Should it have been white as well? Would gold have toned it down a bit? Did we need more flowers placed somewhere?

Glancing at the painting with my birth parents positioned next to Dumbledore's portrait, I couldn't help but smile. I was grateful to be able to share such an invaluable moment of my life with my beloved departed ones. Mum was crying happily while dad beamed proudly. Even Dumbledore had to wipe a tear of joy from his face.

The pianist started playing a simple song, causing my heart to pound against my chest. Merlin, this is it!

Isabelle appeared from the entrance, the flaps opening to signal the start of the wedding. She was wearing a cute white dress with a small bow tied around her waist, her straight hair pulled back in a braid.

She looked apprehensive as she saw just how many people there were and hesitated before being urged on by Ginny.

Slowly, the young girl strode forward, finally settling her eyes on me. I grinned, amused by my daughter. I had to motion for her to drop the flowers along her path, which she did sporadically, taking several handfuls here and there before simply dumping the rest on the ground. This earned her several chuckles as she neared me.

Shortly after she entered, her brother followed, carrying a small pillow with the rings attached. Fleur's was a simple gold band with two small diamonds around a slightly larger one. My own ring was a man's band with four small diamonds encrusted a quarter apart from each other.

Damien wasn't as bothered by the crowd, grinning excitedly at the eyes following him. He was truly in his element, even more so than Fleur or I, holding his head high, his chest slightly puffed out with pride as if he was the hottest thing in the world.

This didn't last long as his foot caught on the carpet runner, causing him to trip and stumble. He managed to catch himself before he fell, but his face was now buried underneath his tamed curls, his face blood red as he took his place up front.

I patted the poor boy's back, comforting him in his embarrassment. With the flower girl and ring bearer in their spots, Gabrielle stepped inside, sporting a simple white dress with a few frills towards the bottom. Ginny followed soon after wearing a matching dress. Both girls were beautiful, and I could practically hear the drool dripping from Harry's face as he took in his girlfriend.

My heart was pounding in my ears, my stomach twisting in tumultuous knots. I drew a deep, anxious breath, knowing what came next.

The music altered to the traditional wedding march, signaling everyone to stand for the bride. I watched painstakingly for what seemed like an eternity for my mate to appear. In what had actually been mere moments, Fleur entered, her arm intertwined with her father's, and my breath caught.

I felt as though I had just seen my mate for the first time again. She wore a strapless ashen dress with a corset top that flowed openly around her thighs. The floral pattern on the top shifted into several jeweled flowers on one side of the bottom that spread out as they lowered.

Her hair had a light wave to it, pinned in the back before falling freely over her right shoulder, a single white rose tucked behind her left ear. It had likely come from the bouquet of white roses she was holding.

Cerulean eyes flashed gold as they took me in, recognizing me as her soulmate. It lasted only a brief moment before they changed back, filling with tears as she covered her mouth, hiding a wide grin.

"Mon Dieu, you're so perfect," she breathed softly.

I sank to my knees without thinking, completely taken back by the goddess before me. I was in utter awe of the woman, and I couldn't believe I was getting to make her mine for life. We were already inseparable, but this would prevent anyone from ever trying to break us apart. The world would recognize Fleur as mine, and myself as hers.

Nicolas cleared his throat as the pair reached the front, raising an expectant brow. I barely noticed this, not wanting to take my eyes off of the flawless woman before me.

Still, I pushed myself up, grounding myself with the help of Harry. "Sorry," I muttered, "but you're…just…"

I had no words to describe my mate. Beauty and perfection were insignificant next to the Veela.

"Stop drooling, mum," Damien chided, breaking me from my trance as the crowd filled with snickers. I blushed, grinning stupidly, feeling much like he had when he tripped. All of my fears and anxieties disappeared the moment I laid eyes upon my mate, and I now reached out to take her hand with confidence. This was all I had wanted for several years—ever since Fleur stepped into my life that fateful year that altered our lives for better or worse.

Nicolas placed his daughter's hand in mine, patting them once joined before he stepped away towards his seat. The entire world was lost to me once more at the simple contact. I stared deep into the vast ocean before me. I knew so many of its secrets, its hopes, its fears, but in this instant, I felt like I knew absolutely nothing and wanted to know everything.

When it came time, though, I began my vows, my promise to my mate that I felt deeply in my heart, in my very soul.

"Fleur, when we first met, I knew you were someone special. I wasn't aware of what that meant at the time. I didn't know all of the joy and heartache we would endure over the next several years. But you have given me one thing that has meant more to me than anything—your love.

"With that love, we have brought two beautiful children into the world. You have shown me your strength time and again. I knew from the moment I met you that I needed to have that strength by my side for the rest of my life. At times, I wasn't sure how short that life would be, but together, we have always persevered. And so I offer you what little strength I have, to always be by your side each and every day for as long as we both shall live. I promise to love you, forever and always, as your mate and as your spouse."

I took the ring off the pillow Damien was holding, sliding it shakily onto the lithe ring finger of the Veela. The tears she had been fighting slowly trialed down her porcelain cheeks. I lifted my hand to brush them away softly, lingering a moment to enjoy the contact.

Fleur shook her head, dismissing the tears that passed her defenses.

"'ermione, as a Veela, I knew from ze moment I saw you zat you were my destined. From loving you, to getting to know you and being in love with you, we 'ave formed a bond more powerful zan any ancient magic. You are my soulmate, and I would follow you to ze end of ze world. I wouldn't be ze person I am today without you.

"You 'ave given me our precious children, and a life I zought at one point I would never 'ave. I don't know what I did to deserve you, but now zat I 'ave you, I 'ope you can forgive me for being selfish and making you mine forever."

I nodded, beaming joyfully as Fleur, my mate, my wife, placed the ring on my finger. It was an odd sensation to have the object on my finger, but one that I loved.

The official made a short statement before waving his wand over our heads, causing a shower of stars to fall upon our bodies, joining us in the eyes of the world once and for all. With the ceremony complete, I leaned forward, pressing my lips softly against my wife's, grinning into the kiss.

The tent erupted in whistles and applause, breaking us apart after a moment to run down the aisle as we stepped outside for the area to be transformed for the reception.

When everything was ready, Fleur and I made our way to the beautiful three-tiered cake, a figuring replicating our time at the Yule Ball placed on the top of the cake, several white roses placed around the intricate design.

Carefully, we cut a small piece, splitting it as we fed each other, laughing as we warned the other not to make a mess. We went about getting more of the cake and other edibles before sitting down at the head table. My parents helped the twins with their food before sitting them down beside Fleur.

Speeches began shortly after, starting off with Harry. He talked about our time on the run and how unbearable I was at times, missing my mate and being in a foul mood for having to be forced to babysit him and Ron, ending with wishing Fleur good luck putting up with me. I couldn't resist smacking him playfully as he sat down.

Gabrielle told a similar story of Fleur's time in France while we were off saving the world, telling a few embarrassing stories, much like Ginny who followed after.

When the redhead sat down, Fleur cleared her throat, calling attention to herself. I looked at her in surprise, not knowing she had planned a speech. If I knew, I would have prepared something myself.

"First of all, I wanted to zank everyone 'ere on be'alf of myself and 'ermione. We are truly grateful to be able to share our special day with so many of our loved ones. It means ze world to 'ave each of you 'ere with us. But I 'ave an announcement to make."

The Veela stood up and stepped behind the twins, glancing at me before returning to the children and continuing. "Damien, Isabelle, 'ow would you like to 'ave a baby brozer or sister?"

My mind went blank as several gasps echoed across the open space.

"Fleur…Are you…Are you pregnant?" I managed after several moments. My wife nodded, a tearful smile lighting her face up.

"I want a brozer!" Damien demanded excitedly, as if he had a say in what it would be.

"Non!" Isabelle cried. "I don't want anozer brozer! Damien is enough!"

I rose, partially ignoring the twin's reactions along with the cheers that surrounded us, my eyes locked on Fleur. "Are you serious? You're pregnant!"

"Oui, I 'ave been waiting to tell you, and I figured zis would be ze best opportunity. I found out about a month ago," she confirmed. I cried out in joy, throwing my arms around my wife. I couldn't believe we were going to have another baby.

"Why didn't you tell me?" I asked, still in shock with the news. "You knew this whole time and hid it?"

Fleur chuckled, "I wanted to surprise you. Also, zis way we wouldn't 'ave to deal with telling everyone individually—everyone who matters knows now."

I laughed at her logic, wiping my face. Lowering down to the twins, I pulled them in for a hug. "You're going to have a baby to look out for. I know you'll both be good big siblings. You're going to have to show them around and be good examples. You know how you two look up to me and maman? This baby will look up to you as well. Can you be good for them?"

Damien nodded eagerly, while Isabelle was a little more reluctant. I kissed them both, rising to kiss my wife once more. She continued to surprise me, making my life better, my heart fuller with each and every day. Feeling complete like this, I knew that my future would continue to be filled with the love and joy that only my soulmate, wife, and mother of my children could give.

AN: So Fleur and Hermione would end up with six children. They were planning to stop with four, but when the fifth surprised them, Fleur got baby fever once more, demanding to have an even number. Hermione would be a bit overwhelmed with so many children, but she adores them all and wants Fleur happy. Not to mention, she's absolutely in love with getting to watch Fleur's pregnancy glow and give birth. They are split evenly, the boys being Dreki and the girls being Veela.

The kids would also all attend Hogwarts. While Fleur loves and has fond memories of Beauxbatons, she also feels connected to Hogwarts. As terrible as some of her memories there are, some of the fondest were from there as well. The kids would be held in high regard for who their parents are, and they would learn more of what their mothers went through. Luckily, things remain relatively peaceful from now on.

Damien and Isabelle—both Gryfindor

Celeste—Hufflepuff

Liam—Gryfindor

Daniel—Slytherin

Victoria—Ravenclaw