The Tale of Two Brothers in Law

Christmas Eve 1991

“Daphne!” Astoria squealed enthusiastically. As she sprinted down the stairs, her red and green dress. Covered in Christmas bows, was perhaps a little tight. She’d always been on the plumper side, which had meant the hand me downs her sister received were often a lot tighter than they’d been on Daphne.

“Tori” Daphne said embracing Astoria tightly. “Mum make you wear it?”

“Yes” Astoria huffed. “How was school. Can you show me your spells.”

“Later. She’s just gotten home, let her put her bags away” Dad smiled warmly. “And I think you look very jolly.”

Astoria frowned, “Dad” she groaned. “I wanted to wear a t-shirt.”

“Now now” Dad said prodding her nose, “You look very beautiful.”

“Aunt Marigold, said I look round.”

“She thinks I look round too” Dad replied turning his head left and right, chins wobbling.

Daphne and Astoria sighed in unison.

“My humour is lost on you girls” Dad said shaking his head.

“Daphne, get your trunk, I’m not carrying it” Augustus said frowning, as he dragged his over the doorframe with a thump. The narrow corridor was a bit of squeezed.

“Auggie” Astoria smiled.

“Hi” He muttered unenthusiastically toward his sister. He shut the door and waved his wand and his trunk flew up stairs. “I’m going to sit on the couch?”

“Your Mother doesn’t want the TV out, we’re expecting guests” Dad called after him, a note of concern in his voice.

Daphne carried her trunk inside and sent it up the stairs. “So how is Hogwarts? Is it true Harry Potter is there?” Astoria asked in wonder.

Daphne smiled, “He’s in some of my classes.”

“You should ask him out” Astoria beamed, “He could be your boyfriend!”

Daphne laughed, “We’re not really friends. He doesn’t really like the Slytherins.”

“Well that’s silly” Astoria said frowning. “I’m going to be friends with him. And then he can come for Christmas.”

Daphne laughed, “It don’t think he can. Anyway he probably spends Christmas with his own family.”

Oo0o0

December 1998

Daphne sipped her coffee as she crossed the ministry atrium. They’d hung Christmas decorations from the ceiling. Daphne was certain they were the same ones they brought out every year. She jabbed the button as she waited for the lift, she looked at the dials and noted the lifts were frustratingly higher up in the building. “Typical.”

“I’m convinced they do this every time the coffee cart arrives, to spite people.” Daphne looked toward the voice, and was surprised to see Harry Potter standing beside. She blinked for a second, he looked different out of his Hogwarts uniform. Although the dark bags under her yes were noticeable.

“I could believe that. You look like you need a good night sleep rather than more coffee.”

Harry smiled wryly, “I do indeed.” He stared at her searching her face clearly trying to figure out why she looked familiar. She was tempted to leave him hanging.

“Daphne Greengrass, we were at School together.”

Harry looked momentarily horrified, “Merlin, Sorry i should have recognised you.”

“I was in Slytherin, and there were quite a few large personalities” Daphne said reassuringly, Harry smiled slightly, but there was hesitant smile. “And before you ask, I fought for your side. Me, Dad and my older brother. My Mum was horrified, but that was more due to my Dad not being particularly agile.” Daphne made a gesture suggesting a large belly with her hands.

Harry grinned and Daphne could immediately tell it was one of relief, “Thankyou.”

There was a lul and the conversation died away, both uncertain if they should continue with the small talk. Against her better judgment Daphne asked. “So what are you doing for Christmas?”

Harry shrugged, “Maybe the Weasley’s, I’ll be welcome there. But I’m not sure, I erm” Harry paused and looked a bit sheepish, “Things have been a frosty between Ginny and I.”

“You were dating right?” Daphne remembered.

Harry nodded, “we’re being the key word.”

Daphne looked sympathetic, “If you want…” she began feeling her face blushing. She wasn’t even sure why she was suggesting it. “My Mother always holds drinks on Christmas Eve, if you wanted to come. We don’t really socialise with any of the usual pureblood types.”

“Thankyou, Most of them are in prison now anyway” Harry said wryly.

“Good” Daphne smiled.

Harry smiled back. “So Christmas Eve?”

“Yes. I’ll send you my families address” Daphne smiled, “You don’t have to bring anything.”

“Great” Harry smiled at her, a gentle blush on his cheeks. “You don’t have a boyfriend who’ll get jealous if i turn up.”

“No i don’t” Daphne smiled.

The lift doors opened, and they both walked in. “That’s good. Well it’s not good, but it’s err.. sorry. I should have borrowed that book from Ron.”

Daphne raised an eyebrow.

“Book on talking to girls” Harry added quietly.

“Really?” Daphne chuckled slightly. “You need help talking to girls? I should have asked you out a long time ago.”

“What?” Harry blinked.

“Hmm?” Daphne blushed.

There was silence, nothing but the slow groan of the lift gently rising up.

“Do you want to get dinner?” Harry asked quietly, Cleary guarded.

“I’d love to” Daphne reassured.

The lift doors opened, Harry looked out and smiled at Daphne. “This is me, send me a memo and we can go out.”

“Somewhere Muggle, the food is usually better” Daphne warned.

“Sounds great to me” Harry chuckled, “I avoid most wizard pubs anyway.”

0o0o

“Table for two?” The woman standing behind the table at the entry asked.

“There should be a table under Dursley” Harry said with a smile.

“Dursley?” Daphne asked curiously.

Harry smiled mischievously, “Cousin’s last name, although i wouldn’t’ get mistaken for him.”

“Muggle right?” She whispered quietly as they were led to a table in the corner of the restaurant. Harry pulled the chair out for her, and she sat down. Harry opposite her.

“Menu’s I’ll be back shortly” The (Waitress) smiled.

“Thank you.”

“Because if they were a wizard, i can imagine they would be cashing in on your name” Daphne said once she was sure the waitress out of earshot.

“Muggle” Harry confirmed. “So you have an older brother?”

“And a younger sister. Oh i should warn you.. when you come for Christmas Eve, if you come. She’s a fan.”

“A fan?” Harry looked confused.

“She has a poster of you, and lots of photos cut from magazines.”

“A poster? How?” Harry said mostly confused, it was frankly sweet.

“It’s artwork..it’s a good likeness.”

“Shirtless?” Harry guessed. “Did they give me abs?”

“They did” Daphne said wryly.

“Better than reality then” Harry said wryly. “So how was life in Slythein.”

“Fine, but it got ridiculous toward the end. It certainly didn’t help sharing a dorm with Pansy Parkinson.”

“Yeah I’d rather face Voldemort again” Harry said grimacing.

“Yeah. She was a bit much. I genuinely don’t know what Draco saw in her.”

Harry shrugged, “He was very distracted, if he hadn’t been they might have broken up sooner.”

Daphne grinned, “I’m kind of glad they didn’t, I wouldn’t have heard the end of it.”

“You were friends?” Harry asked eyebrow raised.

“Friends is a strong word. I’d say polite with a very excellent poker face” Daphne smiled. “So have you started getting better sleep.”

“Depends on the day, The Aurors are so stretched they’re running us ragged. I’m glad i have a house elf, psychotic as he is.”

“You have a psychotic house elf?” Daphne asked.

“He’s very attached to pure blood ideals. He wants to be mounted when he dies” Harry admitted.

“Oh Merlin” Daphne said trying not to laugh.

“So what are you thinking food wise?” Harry asked looking through the menu.

“Honestly I’m not sure. Too many options” Daphne said. “I want both Pasta and Pizza. And I shouldn’t have either.”

“Same. I’ve found lately I’ve been underestimating my appetite lately” Harry admitted.

Daphne looked at him surprised, “Well if you aren’t going to judge me” she ventured. “We could order both.”

Harry lips quirked into a smile, “Seems very sensible.”

“Exactly, and if you’re hungry why shouldn’t you eat.”

“Because i’ll end up resembling my cousin” Harry said dryly.

“You’d probably get mistaken for Harry Potter less” Daphne teased.

“Oh i would, but the articles would all be you’ll never guess what he looks like now. Followed by the most unflattering photo” Harry said wryly.

“Have you decided?” The waitress asked approaching the table.

“Sure, Daphne” Harry offered scanning the menu.

Daphne smiled, “Lasagne, and can i get the pepperoni pizza? And a Coke to drink?”

“Of course. And for yourself?”

“Right err..” Harry looked across at Daphne and she offered a reassuring smile. “The Bolognese, the Meat lovers pizza, and oh err a garlic bread and a pint of beer.”

“Is that to share.”

“He needs the calories, He’s bulking up for the gym” Daphne smiled.

Harry blinked at her, his cheeks blushing, “Thanks” he mouthed.

“Alright I’ll bring it along shortly” The waitress said with a polite smile.

“You didn’t have too.”

Daphne shrugged, “Your hungry and I’m an enabler.”

“I haven’t been on many dates. Most of them have been a disaster.”

“This will definitely be better than that” Daphne reassured. “And I’m not going to accuse of you choosing Hermione over me.”

Harry groaned, “You were there?”

“I was on a date with Montague. He dumped me because he put on two stone, and blamed it on me.”

Harry snorted and grinned, “That’s why his robes got tight? I should have encouraged you to date him for longer.”

“He was a bit dull.”

“Yeah. Doesn’t surprise me” Harry smiled. “Probably the inbreeding…. Sorry.”

Daphne grinned, “don’t be. It’s not inaccurate in some families.”

“Voldemort’s family tree was a knot” Harry said wryly.

“That doesn’t surprise me” Daphne admitted.

The waitress looked a little encumbered as she brought their trays over. So much so the table looked a bit crowded.

“Might have overdone it” Harry admitted. “I think my eyes are bigger than stomach.”

“I have believe in you. Voldemort is nothing compared to a bowl of pasta.”

“It is a very big bowl” Harry reflected.

Daphne raised an eyebrow, “If you finish it, I’ll probably agree to a second date.”

“No wonder Montague put on two stone.”

Daphne smiled wryly, “He was a bit gullible to begin with. You’re far smarter.”

Harry grinned and scooped up a big bite of pasta. “Right then. Better get that second date then.”

Harry belched unceremoniously, “Urrrrrpppp” his hands rubbing his bloated stomach. The bloat giving me a small pooch. “Sorry.”

“It’s fine, you did very well” Daphne said feeling a little full herself.

Harry smiled at her, “Good, although I really overdid it.”

“Harry” Daphne said curiously. “You said your eyes are usually bigger than my stomach. What normally stops you?”

Harry looked like he was struggling to answer. “Not sure” he groaned and reached down and unbuckled his trouser button. “I guess I’ve always had a lot going on. I’ve never had a chance to stop. And slow down.”

“I think your definitely owed that” Daphne pointed out.

“Big time” Harry smiled rubbing his belly. “Is it bad I want dessert.”

“Not one bit” Daphne said. “You’ll have to try my cooking sometime. I make great desserts.”

“Second date? My place?” Harry suggested hopefully.

“You’re going to need new trousers soon” Daphne smirked.

“I have to beat Montague don’t I” Harry said wryly as he patted his gut. “Urrrrpppp…”

Daphne found herself nodding in agreement, taken by Harry in a way that she didn’t expect. However with the way he was staring at her. She knew this was it. Harry was the one and he would be a very big one.

0o0o0

The doorbell rang, and Daphne beamed. She grabbed the plate of Gingerbread biscuits. “Coming” She called, she could see Harry’s silhouette through the glass. She opened the door with one hand.

Harry stood on the doorstep with a bouquet of Poinsettia’s. He was wearing a new shirt that was a little forgiving in size. “Err Hi” he smiled.

“Hi” Daphne smiled. “Come in.”

“So err why four thirty on the dot?” Harry asked as Daphne shut the door. He was looking around taking the house in. “These are Christmas flowers. Or at least that’s what the florist said.”

“They’re beautiful. These are freshly baked for you” Daphne said swapping the flowers for the biscuits. “I’ll get a vase.” Daphne swept into the kitchen and put the flowers in a vase.

“Err Daphne. How early am I?” Harry asked.

“Perfectly timed” Daphne said grabbing the bottle of milk she stashed at the back of the fridge. “Twenty minutes ago, Mum discovered she didn’t have enough sherry. Because I hid it in the cupboard. So she’ll be gone for an hour, and be back just in time for my Dad to come home with my sister from Kings Cross.” She looked at Harry who was looking at the photos of the family on the wall. The ones taken of her and her siblings every couple of years.

Harry smiled at her, “So very well timed.”

“I want you to myself for a bit before my family all turn up” Daphne said as she led him upstairs.

“What’s the milk for?” Harry asked.

“To wash all those biscuits down” Daphne said. “I baked them specially.”

“Then I better not waste a crumb” Harry agreed following her up the stairs.

Daphne stopped in the doorway of Astoria’s room. “This is my sister’s room” Daphne said gesturing to the photos and large picture on the wall.

“I definitely don’t look like that” Harry chuckled. “Not anymore.”

“I like this you anyway” Daphne smiled.

“Me too” Harry agreed. “Do you think I should sign it?”

Daphne grinned at him.

Daphne was happily straddling Harry as he lay propped up by pillows. Crumbs on his chin. The now empty plate of biscuits and bottle of milk on her nightstand. Harry’s hands feeling her curves. As they kissed enthusiastically. The groans escaping Harry’s mouth as she rubbed his bloated belly through his shirt.

She heard the door open downstairs, and voices. She ignored it.

“Mhmm..Urrrppp..” Harry belched between horny kisses. “Love..mhmm..you..”

Daphne smiled and moaned, “I love you too” she replied kissing him. Harry’s tongue enthusiastically entering her mouth as they kissed.

“Who signed my poster!” Astoria shrieked through the wall. This was followed by hurried footsteps as Daphne’s bedroom door was thrown open.

Astoria stood there mouth agape as she stared at Harry and herself. “Oh Merlin…you…he….my…oh…” She stammered going deeper and deeper red.

“Yes. Now shut the door, we’ll be down in a minute” Daphne huffed.

“Should we check on her?” Harry asked concerned.

“She’ll be fine. She’ll probably just need a minute. When she gets a boyfriend I’m going to embarrass the hell out of him” Daphne warned.

Chapter 2

October 1998

Astoria Greengrass chewed on her pencil as she sat at one of the tables in the common room. The Parchment half filled with writing.

“You know you shouldn’t chew on your pencil” Draco Malfoy drawled glancing at her.

She shrugged, “Tastes better than a quill” She replied not looking up.

She missed Draco’s impressed smile. “Homework?” He enquired.

“Nope, writing a newsletter” Astoria replied uninterested. She scrawled down a few lines on the parchment.

She felt Draco lean over the table. She mostly wondered why he was still there. She rolled up the parchment quickly hoping he hadn’t read it. She looked up to see his eyebrow raised. “You are writing about Potter” he looked almost sickened by the thought.

“Yes” Astoria replied firmly. “I think he’s dreamy” she smiled softening.

Draco continued to stare as if she was mad. “Why him? He’s infuriating, and reckless.”

“And Beautiful, those emerald eyes. They’re…” She blushed at the thought.

Draco shifted visibly uncomfortable. “What about someone in Slytherin. There far better men” Draco protested.

“Boys in Slytherin” Astoria looked sickened. “Ew. No thankyou. Gryfindor boys are much more handsome. I heard from a girl in hufflepuff, who’s gay brother was in one of the showers in Gryfindor. That Harry and Ron are hung like horses” Astoria said matter of factly.

Draco stared at her gaping, clearly trying to wrap his head around this perplexing conversion. “I didn’t need to picture that” Draco said shaking his head. “Perhaps nextime, do this in the library.”

“I got banned, (Teacher) thought it was lude.”

Draco opened his mouth to reply, but was cut off by a loud voice bellowing across the common room.

“Dracooo” Pansy called out.

Draco groaned looking around for an escape.

“Under the table?” Astoria suggested.

Draco nodded and unceremoniously climbed under the table. Astoria spread her legs, and she felt Draco crawl between them. His head resting back against her belly. Draco’s hand rubbing her thigh. Perhaps it was a nervous tick, but he was gentle.

Pansy stormed through the common room looking around for sight of Draco.

Astoria felt Draco press his face into her stomach. At first out of fear but then he seemed to relax. Astoria rubbed his neck gently. Draco responded by rubbing her muffin top with his fingers gently.

“Have you seen Draco?” Pansy said glaring at her accusing me.

“No should I have?” Astoria looked up at the seventh year. “I’ve been doing homework.”

“He’s making eyes at you all term. I’m going to hex his balls off. At least when he was trying to kill Dumbledore he was busy. Now he’s just avoiding me.”

Astoria tilted her head, feeling her cheeks flush as he felt Draco’s fingers slide under her shirt. “He’s been making eyes at me? Really?” She said curious amusement. Astoria closed her legs.

“Yes” Pansy snapped.

Astoria was hoping Pansy might have elaborated, but nothing by the frustration on her face. “You know…if he is avoiding you. Maybe he’s just not that into you?”

Pansy’s eyes steeled, “Excuse me.”

“Well when my sister was dating Montague. He just stopped talking to her.”

“Please. He stopped talking to her, because she made him fat” Pansy grimaced. “Your family has always been fat. Your brother is a lardass, so porky Voldemort didn’t want him.”

“My brother wasn’t involved in that. At least no one in my family is in Azkaban” Astoria snapped. “Maybe that’s why Draco’s avoiding you.”

“What” Pansy got in close eyes narrowed. “Say that again piggy.”

“Draco’s avoiding you, because he changed and you didn’t” Astoria said calmly. She felt Draco pressing into her stomach. His fingers holding her. Needing her. “He wants someone who’ll love him, and care for him.”

“You want him for the respect his name has.”

Pansy shrieked in anger, “If anyone sees Draco Malfoy, tell him we’re done” She bellowed.

Astoria bit back a smile.

There was a muffled “thankyou” from between her legs.

“You’re welcome” Astoria laughed. “Are you okay down there.”

“Perfectly” Draco said as he crawled out from beneath the table. “I apologise if I perhaps made you uncomfortable.”

“No. Not really” Astoria said amused. “I’m not going to help you break up with your next girlfriend.”

“Does anyone write newsletters about me?” Draco asked intrigued.

Astoria shook her head, “Someone did send a story that was about you and Harry. Uhh dating.”

Draco looked horrified, “Potter, and…Merlin that’s…”

“It was very detailed” Astoria said with a smirk. “So. Making eyes at me?”

Draco’s cheeks which had already started turning red, glanced away in horror. “I’d look at anyone other than pansy.”

“Huh” Astoria observed. “You’re a terrible liar. How on earth did you manage to get through the war.”

“I didn’t” Draco said darkly.

Astoria rolled her eyes, “You made the right choice in the end. That’s what’s important.”

Draco offered a soft smile, “I was looking at you. You’ve got curves.”

Astoria giggled amused, “Boys only say that. When they’re too afraid to admit they like fat girls.”

Draco cheeks flushed, his face clearly at war with his own internal monologue. “No, I mean it,” he stammered, trying to salvage the moment.

“Meant what?” Astoria said enjoying herself.

“I like your curves. I like..”

“Go on..” Astoria said wryly. She leaned over offering her ear. “Whisper it.”

Draco looked uncomfortable, huffed, rolled his eyes then leaned in. “I think you’re beautiful, and yes. I like that you’re fat. Happy?”

“Perfectly” Astoria grinned at him. “I have to ask, why did you date Pansy to begin with?”

“She was there, and frankly. It made sense.”

“I see that was your first mistake. Love isn’t logical.”

“How many boyfriends have you had?”

“None” Astoria answered.

“You’ve got one.”

“Nope. You’ll have to work harder than that” Astoria smiled. “You’ve got to work for it, and to be honest. You’re a bit too skinny for me. You’d have to have some meat to you.”

Draco blinked at her, “You were fantasising over Potter, he’s a toothpick.”

“Yes. But that’s fantasy. Not reality, and if I was dating Harry. I’d feed him up.”

“You are so very interesting” Draco admitted looking at her.

“I have layers” Astoria said as she packed up her stuff. “But I’m open to reconsidering.”

Draco stared at her for a second dumbfounded, as Astoria smiled and walked away.

0o0

“So I’ve finished the newsletter, but it’s a bit light on news” Astoria said sliding it over. “It’s frustrating he didn’t come back for his final year.”

“What about the photo Chloe sent” Her best friend Mary suggested.

“I don’t think that was him, and it’s too far away anyway” Astoria huffed.

“That’s not Potter, that’s Finch-Fletchley, he combs his hair. Potter does not” Draco commented.

Astoria turned and raised an eyebrow, “You can recognise him from behind.”

“Yes” Draco replied simply.

“My stories were right” Mary gasped.

“They weren’t, sorry. I have standards, I would not sleep with Potter” Draco admitted. “But I’m sure they were well written.”

Mary smiled satisfied. She looked at Astoria curiously. “It’s fine. I’m assuming he wants to talk privately.”

“I do” Draco nodded.

“I’ll start getting this copied” Mary said as she heaved her plump legs over the bench, and waddled off.

“How do you copy them?”

“Duplication charm” Astoria answered, as Draco sat down beside her. “How can I help you? I assume it’s not class related. As I’m only in my first year of NEWT’s.

Draco looked around hesitantly, and leaned over, “I’ve put on five pounds.”

Astoria raised an eyebrow. “Would you like a medal?”

Draco frowned put out, “But that’s what you said” he protested with a quiet irritated hiss.

“I did. But five pounds. My robes weigh more than that” Astoria said.

Draco huffed nostrils flaring, he unrolled a scroll. “I asked Granger to make me a diet plan. I told her I wanted to bulk for quidditch.”

“She didn’t believe you did she.”

“No. No she didn’t” Draco huffed. He handed the parchment over, Astoria glanced over to the Gryfindor table. She was talking to Ginny Weasley.

“Is she still dating Harry Potter?”

“Who?” Draco looked around and caught where she was looking. “No. And we were talking about me.”

“Draco I appreciate the gesture, but we both know you aren’t going to follow through. You aren’t going to make yourself fat for me. Because I have a preference in men.”

Draco’s lips pursed, “It’s not that.”

“No?” Astoria said curious.

“I feel comfortable with you. In a way, in a way I haven’t in a long time” Draco said, he suddenly looked distant. “I just know, I want to be worthy of you.”

Astoria’s shoulders sagged, and she looked over at him. “Really.”

“I am not just having you on.”

“Astoria. I’m Draco Malfoy, if I wanted to be with someone for the sake of it. I would still be dating Pansy.”

“No you wouldn’t” Astoria scoffed.

“No I wouldn’t” Draco sighed. “I’ve lost a lot..”

“Respect, almost went to prison…”

“Yes..” Draco said quickly. “The point is. Well…”

Astoria smiled at him sympathetically, “You like that I make you work hard. And I wont put up with your bad choices.”

“You make want to be better. And you haven’t judged me.”

Astoria considered, “I’m pureblood, but my Dad was always good at explaining everything. He sat us down at the start of the war. Telling us why he and Mum were making the choices they did. They even said they would support us regardless of what side we chose. You didn’t get a choice about fighting, but you did make the right choice in the end.”

Draco reached down and squeezed her hand. “What’s honestly ridiculous. I think I rather enjoy overeating. There’s a freedom in not caring.”

Astoria smiled amused, “You have to take me on a proper date.”

“You have my word” He smiled.

Chapter 3

December 24th 1998

“Harry Potter, when Daphne said you were coming. I didn’t quite believe her” Dad admitted shaking his hand.

“Daphne insisted” Harry smiled. “It’s lovely to meet you Mr Greengrass.”

“Now my Nora gave you a beer” Dad asked.

“She did” Harry nodded.

“Well. Welcome to the family” Dad smiled.

“You handled that well” Daphne smiled.

“Your parents are nice” Harry smiled.

“They are, but they can be a lot” Daphne said leading Harry over to a sofa. “This is the comfortable sofa. The longer we can sit here, the better” Daphne explained. “Did you figure out your plan for tomorrow?”

“Yeah. Hermione’s coming over for breakfast and then we’ll go to the Weasleys for lunch. She and Ron are going to go to her parents for dinner. And I err..”

“Coming here. So I can stuff you full of Turkey” Daphne said kissing his cheek. “If you’re not sick of me.”

“Not sick of you yet” Harry grinned kissing her lips gently.

Daphne smiled and cuddled up to him, tasting the beer on his mouth. The fact that her boyfriend was Harry Potter, and he was happily letting her feed him up. He must have known what she was thinking as he guided a hand to his belly.

“Get a room” Augustus groaned as he walked past.

“I did, but Astoria walked in” Daphne replied breaking the kiss. “Are you hungry,”

Harry nodded rubbing his belly.

“I’ll get you some food. I won’t let you starve” Daphne said warmly.

“I’m lucky to have you” Harry smiled taking a sip of beer.

“I’m glad I got the courage to talk to you” Daphne smiled kissing him honestly. She walked into the kitchen and grabbed a plate. She began filling it up.

“I hope those aren’t for you?” Mum said fussing about the kitchen.

Daphne rolled her eyes, “They’re for Harry.”

“Good. You don’t want to let yourself get fat. Or you’ll end up like your sister.”

“Mum” Daphne chastised, as she retreated. Mostly as she didn’t want to deal with her mother’s sly comments about her weight. She had put on weight, but she was smart enough to wear spanx at least to keep her mother from commenting. In the living room Astoria was sitting with Harry, talking with him.

“Please tell me you’re not bothering him?” Daphne asked as she handed Harry the plate.

Astoria gasped, “I would never.” She glanced at the overfilled plate, and then at Harry. Then at me, her eyes widening slightly. “I was just asking him a few questions.”

Daphne sighed, “You can’t interview him for your newsletter.”

Astoria rolled her eyes, “Why not, you brought him.”

“I don’t mind” Harry said popping a mince pie into his mouth.

“She runs a newsletter for the Harry Potter fanclub.”

“Yeah. I know I submitted a story once” Harry said with a mischievous smile.

Daphne and Astoria stared at him gaping.

“What? How?” Astoria protested.

“Under a pseudonym” Harry said wryly. “The one about the bathroom. Featuring Draco.”

“That was you!” Astoria exploded flabbergasted.

“Harry” Daphne said sitting on the arm of the chair.

Harry grinned at her, “loosely based on a real incident. I just thought people shouldn’t just assume I’d date a woman.”

“Are you straight?” Daphne said slightly worried.

“Very” Harry promised. “But it was fun, and Ginny proofread it and offered notes.”

“The more I spend time with you. The more I’m convinced you were meant to be in Slytherin.”

“I was almost in Slytherin. But I told the hat anywhere but” Harry said wryly.

“You can do that?” Astoria said interested.

“Yeah. It was probably for the best, I don’t think I could have managed six years in that dorm.”

“Draco Malfoy isn’t that bad” Astoria said defensively.

“He’s a bit of a git” Harry admitted.

“He is. But he’s trying.”

“Hermione said the same thing” Harry muttered. “These are delicious, by the way” he said shoving another mince pie in his mouth.

“Mum makes them from scratch. Same with the Christmas pudding” Daphne smiled.

“And she wonders why we’re all fat” Astoria rolling her eyes.

“You’re not fat, your curvy” Harry smiled at Daphne. Daphne smiled and kissed him warmly.

“Guys just say that when they’re afraid of admitting they prefer fat girls” Astoria said taking a sip of her drink.

Harry flushed a deep red, “Err well. I mean… err.” Daphne offered him a sympathetic smile, she had noticed Harry liked to cuddle her.

“Boys” Astoria said rolling her eyes.

“How would you know?” Daphne said.

“I have a boyfriend” Astoria announced.

“Uh huh” Daphne said dubiously. “Fictional ones in books don’t count.”

“it’s not diary that writes back?” Harry enquired.

“He’s real, he goes to Hogwarts” Astoria said simply. “We’re taking things slow.”

“Congratulations” Harry said cheeks bulging as he stuffed another mince pie into his mouth.

Astoria glanced at Daphne, her eyes narrowing. Daphne ignored her, that was the problem with siblings they knew each other too well. Although she was very curious about Astoria’s ‘boyfriend.’

“Dinner is ready, so boys grab a plate and help yourselves” Mum said from the doorway. Daphne never quite understood why her mother let the boys first as a child. As an adult and given most of the men were not on the slim side, it made sense.

Harry looked at Daphne unsure, “If you don’t Dad and Augustus will eat your share” Astoria warned.

Daphne went to follow him, but Astoria tugged on his sweater. “In the hall”

She hissed. Daphne huffed and followed her younger sister.

“What?” Daphne said simply.

“Are you doing a Montague, again?” Astoria hissed.

“What?” Daphne almost laughed.

“Are you fattening him up” Astoria hissed quietly.

“Why are you worried I’m going to ruin him.”

“I’m worried he doesn’t know you’re doing it.”

“I know” Harry said from the other end of the hallway. As he shoved a forkful of chicken greedily in his mouth. “She’s a great cook. Got you a plate.”

Daphne grinned at Harry proudly, he smiled back cheeks bulging as he chewed.

Astoria frowned, for a second Daphne wondered if it was jealously. “Well then” she said wryly. “Go ahead.” She offered a mysterious smile and disappeared back into the party.

“Sorry” Daphne admitted as she walked up and took the plate from Harry. He’d overfilled her plate as much as his own.

“I like seeing families. It urrp. Sounds silly, but I never really had siblings to bicker with” Harry admitted as he used a fork to shove a mouthful of turkey in. “So is tomorrow like this too.”

“Tomorrow is this but doubled. My brother and my Dad are holding back tonight. If you haven’t guessed we’re a big family.”

Harry shrugged, “I’ve had a lot of experience with big families. And yours has been lovely.”

Daphne smiled reassured, “Good, I worried I’d really thrown you at the deep end.”

“Nah. Not at all” Harry grinned.

The party had begun to wind down by ten thirty, everyone beginning to say their goodbyes. Everyone offering their thank you’s to her parents.

“I’m really stuffed” Harry admitted rubbing his bloated belly, he raised a fist to his mouth trying to stifle his belch. “Urrp- sorry.”

“It’s no trouble. But I’m impressed you managed thirds.”

“I don’t know if dessert counts Urrpp as thirds” Harry pointed out. “I should go…before I start farting.”

Daphne laughed and kissed Harry firmly on the lips, leaning her weight against him. “Merry Christmas Harry.”

Prrrrrrrfftttttttt

Daphne pressed her face into Harry’s neck. “You are wonderful.”

“Sorry…I did warn you” Harry replied, Daphne could hear his blush. “And I do like your curves. And your belly” Harry whispered.

“I like yours too” Daphne said rubbing his bloated belly fondly.

Chapter 4

“So dare I ask what you have planned?” Astoria asked as Draco held her hand and led her across the Hogwarts grounds.

“For our first date?” Draco asked with a wry smile.

“Yes. Because I assumed you’d wait until a Hogsmede day. But… apparently not” Astoria admitted. “It had better be romantic? And not something dull like hiking?”

“It’s not hiking. You’re too fat to hike” Draco said simply.

“I feel like I’m too fat to walk this far from the castle” Astoria said eyes narrowing.

“Nextime I shall to endeavour to steal a wheelchair from the infirmy then.”

“Good. Because I’m not looking to loose weight.”

“Salazar forbid that ever happens” Draco gasped.

“Don’t be facetious.”

“We are almost there” Draco said leading her to a nice spot that overlooked the black lake. Yet was pleasantly isolated. Draco waved his wand and a picnic blanket flew out from the tip of his wand and spread out. “I thought this might be more your speed.”

Draco sat a picnic basket down on the blanket and flipped open the lid. “I was informed the house elf’s are quite happy to provide extra food. They seem to firmly hold the opinions wizards eat far too little for their heights.”

“Really?” Astoria said carefully sitting. “How do you get into the kitchens?”

“You just tickle the pear on the painting near the hufflepuff dormitory” Draco commented lifting out the plates. “I hope this is plenty.”

“It’ll do” Astoria smirked, “Are you a secret romantic Draco Malfoy?”

Draco huffed, “Hardly.”

Astoria grinned amused, “careful I’ll start planning our wedding.”

“It’ll be an intimate affair. You’ll be stuffed into a nice dress, and be the centre of attention all day” Draco admitted his hand gently rubbing the side of her belly.

“Ha. You are a romantic” Astoria grinned.“I’d probably diet if we got married.”

“Absolutely not” Draco said firmly, as he dragged a plate close. “My girlfriend diet? If I am going to become big and fat to keep your attention. Then I can’t loose your beautiful figure, that would be highly cruel.”

Astoria smirked, and patted Draco’s chest, “then you’d defend my honor if someone says I’m too fat.”

“Yes” Draco said hugging her close. “You are my everything.” He kissed her cheek fondly. “Merlin your smell is intoxicating.”

Astoria chuckled, “well your chance is coming up. Pansy is walking toward us.”

Draco huffed groaning into Astoria’s neck. His hand rubbing her belly. He pressed his head against her large bossom. His mind distracted my thoughts of how she was everything to him.

“Draco. What, are you doing?”

“I believe the correct wording. Would be who am I doing” Draco replied facetiously.

Astoria slapped Draco’s backside, it jiggled. Astoria had wondered where his weight was going.

“Draco. Look at me” Pansy replied stomping her foot.

Draco hugged Astoria tighter, letting her body bulge against him. “No shan’t.”

“Pansy you broke up” Astoria said calmly, her cheeks slightly flushed at how handsy Draco was being.

“You gave him a love potion. Didn’t you, that’s the only way he’d love a fat cow like you” Pansy sneered.

Draco became still, and Astoria felt him begrudgingly peel himself off her. He stood up and glared at pansy in an intense silence. “Apologise.”

“What?” Pansy laughed absurdly,

Draco stalked closer and wrenched her close, the fabric of her cloak twisting in his hand. “Am I not being clear. Apologise.”

“Draco” Astoria warned gently. Seeing the frustrated intensity coming off him.”

Pansy wrestled her cloak from her grip. “No shan’t” she parroted.

“It’s okay” Astoria said with a forced smile of reassurance.

“No. It’s not” Draco said teeth gritted. “Apologise to her Pansy” Pansy didn’t move, she stared into Draco’s fierce eyes. “Now.”

Astoria noticed the realisation on her face. As her anger was swept away by a look of sadness.

“No. I hope you’re happy dating a pure bred heifer” Pansy said with a huff, clearly trying to stay strong.

“Astoria is a woman who is worthy of my attention. I’m just sorry I wasted so much of it on you” Draco said simply, when he realised he’d never get the apology he was seeking.

Draco got down on his knees. “I’m sorry.”

Astoria looked at Draco’s pleading eyes, “You tried your best.”

Draco softened, and embraced her his face pressed between her breasts. “She was cruel to say those things. You’re my girlfriend, no one should dare…”

“Draco” Astoria ran her fingers through his hair. “You are not the man you once were.”

Draco’s body sagged, “I know. Even now, I worry I won’t be able to provide for you.”

Astoria fondled Draco’s backside, “I don’t mind.” It really was plumper, Draco was truly developing a fat behind.

“My family’s fortune was claimed largely for reparations. I have some money, but it’s hardly the amount it once was” Draco said hurt. “In my mind, I want you as my wife not doing a thing. But…”

“We have to work for our happy endings. Or they aren’t worth having” Astoria said gently.

Draco smiled at her warmly, “thank you. Do you really like my rear this much.”

“It’s getting fat. I like a big butt” Astoria grinned.

Draco blushed deeply, “we- we- we should eat” he stammered.

“You should eat” Astoria corrected.

❧

Whispers had spread like wildfire since Pansy had caught them. It was a misguided attempt to get people to side with her. Impressively people were mostly apathetic towards Pansy, as juicy as the gossip of Draco and Astoria being together.

Astoria tried to ignore it, but it did wear her down. The Slythein’s were mostly confused by the whole pairing. Trying to figure out what they saw in each other. But everyone else, they looked at her as if she was marked. Dating a former death eater, that she was now worth less than others for her befriending and becoming close to Draco.

Normally she’d have spoken to her sister, but she wasn’t at Hogwarts anymore. And Astoria wasn’t sure if she was ready to tell her family, it was too fresh.

She felt slightly isolated, but she tired not think about it.

“I’ve heard you and Mr Malfoy, have gotten close” Professor slughorm said at the end of potions. “I’m glad to see he has someone looking after him. That Parkinson girl was never suitable.”

“Thank you professor” Astoria smiled, although it didn’t quite meet her eyes.

“I know it’s hard, but if you care for someone it will truly be worth it” He said reassuringly.

Astoria nodded and grabbed her books, there were furtive looks and whispered words as she headed up the stairs of the dungeon.

Astoria sighed and shot an annoyed glance back at them. Professor Slughorn was right.

“Astoria” Draco waved across the way.

Everyone was suddenly looking at them. Astoria walked towards Draco, she could tell he was regretting so loudly calling attention. But trying to appear confident irregardless.

Draco took her hand and squeezed it warmly, the look in his eyes clearly suggesting he desperately wanted to kiss her. “I wanted to introduce you to my friends..”

“You can tell that really hurt him to say that”

Astoria looked over to see Hermione Granger, Ginny Weasley, and Luna Lovegood looking at them with amusement.

“Hardly Weasley” Draco rebuffed. “Astoria, this is Hermione, Ginny and Luna.”

“Hello” Hermione said with a curious smile. “I see Draco managed to finally convince you.”

Astoria considered how to respond, “I had to make sure he was genuinely interested, and not just his last option.”

“My last option was Weaslette, and that was never going to happen” Draco smiled wryly.

“Voldemort would have to come back again before I’d even consider that” Ginny said firmly.

“Your certainly an improvement on Pansy” Hermione offered.

“A dead rat is an improvement on Pansy” Ginny added, Astoria smirked in agreement.

“I feel like Dead rats should protest. I know the perfect place for them to organise” Astoria commented.

“Pansy’s dormroom?” Draco guessed, his arm reached around and cupped Astoria’s waist.

“Are you looking forward to Christmas Break?” Ginny asked.

“Ish, I have to get through my mother’s annual Christmas Eve gathering” Astoria sighed. “Is it that bad?” Draco asked.

“It’s an annual torture. We all have to be perfect guests, and socialise. Mum at least doesn’t invite anyone who supported Voldemort.” Draco straightened slightly, but Astoria patted his arse lovingly. “Otherwise it’s okay, Mum goes all out on the food.”

“I’ll unfortunately be stuck here” Draco sighed wearily.

“I’m sure you’ll cope” Ginny said wryly.

“I’d invite you to meet my parents, but it’s a bit soon” Astoria admitted.

“Of course. I understand” Draco reassured.

“Your welcome to come spend Christmas Day with us. If that’s not too much of a burden” Ginny pointed out. (“Harry is ditching us.”

Hermione frowned.

“You did break up, he probably didn’t want to make anyone uncomfortable.”)

“Perhaps. I’ll see” Draco said uncertain.

“Where are your parents? Are they not returning for Christmas?” Luna asked.

“No they’re still in Paris. I think they’re just keeping their heads down” Draco sighed, “I imagine I’ll receive a couple of presents in the mail. That will be very well searched by the ministry.”

Astoria rubbed his arm, “It’ll pass” she reassured.

“I know” Draco nodded. “I’ll see you in class later I imagine.”

Astoria felt Draco lead her away, they withdrew into an empty classroom. Draco wrapped his arms around her pulling her close. “Are you okay?” She asked.

“No, but I’ll manage” Draco replied. “You won’t stay over Christmas break?”

“I can’t. As much as I’d rather miss it. It’s tradition” Astoria said.

Draco hugged into her, “I shall write.”

“Like a forelorn lover” Astoria teased.

“Out of boredom.”

“Of course” Astoria grinned, kissing him.

❧

Astoria felt a little guilty about how much she missed Draco over the Christmas break. Especially with everything that happened.

She needed Draco.

She followed the crowds back from the station, her uniform tighter than it had been before she left. It was one of the few reliefs, having a distraction so she didn’t get quite so many comments about her weight.

Draco was sitting alone in the great hall, towards one end of the Slytherin table. A crowd of first years sat by him. Astoria approached with amusement.

“Now does Potions make sense?” Draco asked. The first years all nodded, “Splendid” he said before shoving a sandwich in his mouth. “Any questions?”

Astoria smiled there was a sweetness, that one day Draco would make an incredible father. She blushed at the thought of how heavy she’d be a baby growing in her womb.

“Draco. There’s a girl behind you.”

Draco’s head turned, and his face looked puffier. Astoria smiled at him, “Hello.”

“Your back?” Draco said a smile creeping over his lips. He lifted his legs over the bench. Revealing his school jumper that was straining slightly. He was evidently ready to go up a size. Astoria leaned in and hugged him, her bulging belly pressing against him. “I missed you so very much” he whispered into her ear. His fingers pressed into her belly, feeling it. “Every inch and pound.”

Astoria blushed, she had missed the smell of Draco’s cologne. His firm hands. “I’ve missed you too.”

Draco refused to break, pressing into her. Comforted by her plump body. His hands rubbing her curves. “Mhmmm.”

“Is that your girlfriend”

Astoria broke the hug, smirking at the hurt pout on Draco’s lips. “Who are your friends.”

“These are the first years I’ve been tutoring” He explained.

“Hello” Astoria said smiling amused.

“Let’s end it there for today. Now school is back we’ll meet next Thursday in the kitchen again” Draco explained. Astoria noticed how each of the first years seemed to be bulging out of their uniform. They waddled away reseating themselves further away. “I’m tutoring them.”

“In schoolwork? Or eating?” Astoria asked.

“Both. I found them sneaking into the great hall after curfew trying to find food. It led to a whole exchange, so now I’m tutoring them,”

“And enabling them” Astoria smiled cuddling into him.

“That too” Draco admitted. “Merlin I’ve missed you, your curvier.”

“Fatter” Astoria corrected.

Draco pressed his face into her neck trying not to shudder, “fatter” he agreed voice muffled.

Astoria chuckled, “I have so much to tell you. It was an eventful Christmas.”

Draco smiled, “Was it now.”

Astoria smiled and nudged him, “It was. Daphne brought a boyfriend?”

“Really? After the whole thing with Montague. Every pure blood would steer clear.”

“Not a pure blood” Astoria said prodding Draco’s tummy. “Harry Potter.”

Draco gaped at her, glanced over his shoulder conspiratorially. “What?” He hissed.

“Yes. She brought him to Christmas Eve drinks, and honestly I have so much to tell you” Astoria grinned.

Draco nodded looking uncertain, “But your sister is dating Potter. I can’t imagine I’ll be welcomed with open arms.”

“Oh you’ll be fine” Astoria dismissed ferociously.

“I’m still not sure” Draco hissed.

Astoria grabbed his tie and pulled Draco close, “I love you, don’t be a coward. Now listen to my gossip, because I can’t tell my friends as it will actually go public.”

Draco blushed, “Please go on” he said gently removing his tie from her grip.

“Daphne is doing a Montague with Harry” Astoria began, Draco’s face became a mix of horror and delight, “and he likes it.”

“He what?”

“He’s enjoying it” Astoria hissed.

“Should I be jealous” Draco asked.

“No. I have you” Astoria said firmly.

“But he signed my shirtless Poster of him.”

Draco paled, “Your what?”

“It’s an artistic rendering of Harry Shirtless” Astoria smirked. “But that’s not even the good bit.”

“That’s not the good bit?” Draco said dubiously.

“No. He admitted that he reads my newsletter. AND that story the one about you and Harry.”

“He did not…” Draco clued in. “I’m going to kill him.”

“Shush. It’s a great story.”

“He wrote me as the bottom!” Draco hissed indignantly. “I like women. I like you. I’m going to write something even kinkier.”

“No you won’t” Astoria patted his chest.

Draco sighed, “Fine. Should I tell Granger and such Potter is dating.”

Astoria shook her head, “They’re taking it slow. Slow ish.”

“Well I still don’t believe Potter is getting fat” Draco dismissed.

“Yes, can’t have him encroaching on your territory” Astoria teased. “You are very sweet with your band of first years.”

“Well someone has to help them not fail.”

Astoria smiled at him, and squeezed his leg, “You’ll be a good Dad, one day.”

“Thank you” Astoria smiled.

“And I know you’ll be a formidable mother” Draco admitted.

Astoria laughed, “Next year, you’re coming to Christmas. I want to show you off.”

“Let’s get through the remainder of the school year first” Draco said kissing her tenderly. “Do you want children.”

“Is the Pope a catholic.”

Draco looked at Astoria blankly. “I don’t understand.”

Astoria sighed and patted his cheek condescendingly. “I know. It’s far more fun this way.”

❧

Astoria felt her thighs jiggling, trying not to think about the sweat that was rolling down her back. It wasn’t even summer yet, and somehow every year she started feeling hot around late may.

She normally would spend most of her time in the Slytherin house as it was far cooler. But her boyfriend had decided he preferred the quiet of the library.

Draco sat at one of the tables, glossy brochures and parchment spread out. Creating some sort of sense that only Draco could understand. “Hello” he smiled a look of relief appearing on his face.

“I thought you’d be up here studying?” Astoria asked sitting down in an empty chair. Draco smiled wryly.

“I’m pausing, in order to plan out what I’ll do after my exams.”

“I thought you were going to become a healer.”

“That was my original plan” Draco sighed, the hurt on his face apparent.

“What?” Astoria said not following. Draco handed her a letter, Astoria read it. Draco’s application to become a healer has failed.”I’m sorry.”

“There’s nothing you could have done, certainly this is my own fault” Draco said frustrated, “Would you hire a former death eater.”

“It depends on what they’ve done” Astoria said honestly. “What are your options, could you do an overseas programme?”

“I’m looking at my other options” Draco gestured to the brochures.

Astoria picked up one that sat at the top of the pile. ‘Join the Muggle Liason department’

“Draco. No” Astoria said gently. “You would drive yourself to Azkaban.” Draco’s face fell, Astoria winced, “Sorry poor choice of words. My point is, I don’t think it’s for you.”

“Yes. You are right, but I don’t know how many would be interested in hiring me” Draco admitted with a sigh, as he sat back and patted his gut. “I wanted to be a quidditch player.”

“That’s not happening. Far too active” Astoria said with a twinkle in her eye. She bundled up the brochures and began sorting them out.

“And I’m out of practice” Draco added.

“A yes pile, and a no pile. Potions is your strongest subject so, and frankly you’d be frustrated if you didn’t get to use some of your skills.”

She glanced up to see Draco watching her with amusement. She sifted the brochures down to two. And handed them over to Draco.

“Cosmetologist?”

“It’s a little more complicated than apocathary, and pays better. If a bit boring. This is my other suggestion.”

“Missuse of Muggle Artifacts?”

“Yes. It’s in the Magical Law Enforcement, they’re more likely to hire you as you’ve experience with magic. And given your history, they’ll keep tabs anyway.”

“Hmm. I didn’t take muggle studies.”

“It’s not really a requirement, it’s the hex and dark magic end they need the experience with” Astoria said reading the brochure.

“I’ll apply here, although I don’t know if it’ll be enough to support you.”

Astoria blinked, “what?”

“When..” Draco’s face flushed, “we eventually marry, I’d support you.”

“You know I can work” Astoria said touched but amused.

“I know. But I would feel better.”

Astoria smiled, “I’m sure we’ll manage. And I do want to work for a couple of years.”

“And what do you plan to do? A desk job I hope?” Draco smiled amused.

“I haven’t decided, but I have time” Astoria said wryly.

Draco smiled and heaved himself up, his pot belly was beginning to look more like a muffin top, as it bulged swollen and snug in his uniform. Astoria patted it, as Draco embraced her and kissed her. “You smell amazing.”

“That’s sweat”

“Not to me” Draco said kissing her neck. “I’d lick it all up.”

Astoria laughed and tried to wriggle from Draco’s embrace. “Stop it” she said smiling. Draco kissed her firmly.

“Never. Never ever” he promised tenderly.

❧

“Astoria” Draco waved to her across the courtyard.

“I’ll see you later Mary” Astoria said to her best friend.

“I can’t believe how chubby he’s getting. You should say something” Mary hissed.

“He’s fine” Astoria said wryly.

“He’s no Harry Potter.”

Astoria grinned, knowing that Harry was probably chubby too. “Uh huh.”

“Still. That interview is so good, it’s going to be the best issue yet” Mary gushed beaming.

“I’ll see you later in Transfiguration” Astoria said crossing the courtyard. “Hi.”

“I got the job” Draco preened, as he stood with Ginny, Luna and Hermione.

“You did!” Astoria grinned, “I told you.”

“What Job?” Hermione asked frowning. “Did St Mungos change their mind.”

“Miss use of Muggle Artifcats” Draco said. “I’ll start as soon as I finish school.”

Ginny snorted.

“Is there something wrong with that?” Draco enquired.

“It’s my Dad’s department” Ginny said wryly. “He probably hired you.”

Draco stiffened, a worried look crossing his face.

“Still. I’m very proud of you” Astoria smiled kissing him. “They’ll be lucky to have you.”

Draco nodded, “Yes, and the pay is decent, once I complete training.”

“Really? It can’t be that good?” Ginny frowned.

“Ginny. Your Dad, had seven kids on one income” Hermione pointed out. “I can’t imagine Draco having seven children.”

Draco and Astoria glanced at each other, “I’m sure I’ll manage. Did you finish the newsletter.”

“I did. With the exclusive interview with Harry Potter” Astoria said knowing it wound Draco up.

Draco scoffed, but he still smiled.

“Interview with Harry?” Hermione said surprised.

“Astoria is the head of the Harry Potter fan club” Draco explained.

“Offical now” Astoria grinned.

“You run the fan club?” Ginny said surprised.

“Yes. I have since fourth year” Astoria said. “Here’s the interview, given the audience it’s not hard hitting journalism.” She handed the page to Draco. “Don’t smudge it.”

“What is your favourite childhood book?” Draco read allowed. “I always liked books by Roald Dahl, I related to Matilda. Although she’s like Hermione, maybe that’s why I always admired her. but my favourite was Charlie and the Chocolate factory.”

“I didn’t know that” Hermione said surprised.

Astoria watched as they all scanned the article. Astoria was quite proud of it came together. Harry had been more than happy to answer her questions, when he realised it wasn’t the usual press he’d normally received.

“Harry has a girlfriend?” Ginny gasped.

“Where does it say that?” Hermione frowned.

“Ninth Question” Ginny pointed.

“I can’t believe he didn’t tell me.”

“He let you print that?” Draco asked curiously.

“He did. I made sure to confirm with both parties” Astoria added.

Ginny and Hermione stared at Astoria firmly. “You know who it is?”

“Obviously” Draco drawled, “haven’t you heard he’s dating Pansy Parkinson. And as far as I’m concerned she can have him.”

Hermione, Ginny stared at Draco horrified. Luna looked amused. “What?” They protested.

“Why do you think he hasn’t told you?” Draco said struggling to keep a straight face. “No I can’t do it, it’s too hard” and burst into a fit of laughter.

“So he doesn’t have a girlfriend” Hermione sighed a little relieved, as she playfully punched Draco’s arm.

“Harry does” Luna added, smiling at Astoria. “He’s dating her sister.”

Chapter 5

Harry (YEAR 2)

“Honestly Harry” Hermione began.

Harry swallowed the mouthful of steak and mashed potatoes, he could tell a lecture was coming.

“Hermione. It’s been a long day” Ron offered. His Hermione sense piqued.

“It needs to be said” Hermione insisted, powering ahead. “You need to cut back, you’re getting a bit fat.”

“A bit? It’s only a few pounds” Harry dismissed.

It wasn’t, in the year since he’d begun dating Daphne he’d put on 100lbs. But given he’d been underweight for most of his teens, some of the weight was overdue. So now he just looked beefy, he didn’t really look hugely fat, just thicker. With a bit of a belly.

“Harry” Hermione admonished.

Perhaps more than a few pounds.

“You need to consider a diet. I know you didn’t exactly have an upbringing that encouraged good eating choices.”

Harry frowned and looked at his middle, it didn’t even bulge against the table. He wondered if he should put his foot down. Daphne without a doubt would have defended him.

“I think he looks healthier, he was very thin. He could have been possessed by wrackspurts.”

“Exactly. I don’t want to get possessed it’s the last thing I need” Harry agreed with a nod.

Hermione huffed annoyed, “I just think you should at least consider cutting back.”

“Hermione just drop it” Harry said firmly. Getting a little annoyed.

“Mate, you know she’s not going to give it up until you agree. A few pounds wouldn’t hurt” Ron offered.

“Hypocite” Harry muttered under his breathe Harry heard the front door open and Harry sighed internally, finally Daphne to rescue him from this topic.

“Mistress Greengrass” Kreacher said appearing in the doorway.

Harry turned and smiled, he could already tell she’d had a long day at work. “Hey, Did you come straight here?”

“I have spare clothes here” Daphne said leaning in and kissing him firmly.

“Your food is keeping warm in the oven” Harry smiled.

“You’re amazing” Daphne said relieved. “Sorry, Hello everyone.” She grabbed an oven glove and retrieved a plate. She squeezed Harry’s thigh as she sat down. “I hope I didn’t interrupt the conversation too much.”

Harry was relieved she had.

“Hermione was talking about how Harry should consider loosing weight” Luna said with an amused. But unhelpful sigh.

Harry sighed.

“Harry doesn’t need a diet” Daphne said warmly. “He was always very thin.”

Luna nodded in agreement.

“See. Can we drop it” Harry asked as he roughly cut a mouthful of steak and shoved it in his mouth. “If it was a problem Daphne would tell me.”

Ron raised an eyebrow, “Uh huh.”

“This is delicious” Daphne said to Harry warmly.

“Almost as good as your cooking.”

“Well someone had to teach you” Daphne said wryly. “Especially after that mishap with the deep fryer.”

“Deep fryer?” Hermione frowned.

“I tried deep frying Chocolate frogs. Because you can deep fry Mars bars” Harry explained. “They splashed hot oil in my face.”

Daphne shook her head, “This is why you’re forbidden from the kitchen. You’re accident prone.”

“Is he ever” Ron agreed. “You were in the hospital wing every year at Hogwarts.”

“I’m not as bad as I was” Harry admitted, finishing off his plate. He really wanted seconds but suspected he’d get an earful from Hermione.

“Do you want to clean up, before dessert, that way you can keep the leftovers” Daphne suggested.

Harry smiled, reassured that Daphne was on the same wavelength. “Kreacher” Harry called out.

The wizened house elf appeared promptly.

“Would you put the leftovers aside.”

Kreacher nodded, and the plates floated off the table as Kreacher sorted out the leftovers.

“Harry” Hermione began.

“Hermione I work full time, Kreacher is a big help. And he prefers his current situation. I’d rather not upset him.”

“So you’re polishing that head mount then” Ron frowned.

Harry rolled his eyes, “I’ve actually suggested he could be buried in the black family crypt. Given his decades of service. He’s quite comfortable with that.”

Hermione frowned, but said nothing.

Dinner came to a close, and they shared a few drinks in the sitting room. Before everyone decided to call it a night.

“Thank you for dinner Harry” Hermione said honestly. “But you should consider it. Loosing weight, your An Auror, it would be dangerous to get too out of shape.”

Harry nodded, and glanced at Ron who mouthed, “I’ll talk to her.” Harry was certain he wouldn’t.

He felt Daphne’s arms wrap around his waist. “I arrived just in time then.”

“Yeah” Harry said tired. “She won’t let it go.”

“Your happy aren’t you?” Daphne asked.

“Yes” Harry smiled, “Very.”

“Then if they don’t like it. They can stuff it” Daphne smiled kissing him gently. “Come on, let’s get those leftovers into you.”

“I am so lucky to have found you” Harry said kissing her warmly.

“You say that” Daphne said patting his chest.“So my darling sister wants to introduce her boyfriend to the family.”

“Right?” Harry said unsure.

“She’s been keeping quiet about this guy for a while. They got together before we did. So that’s like a big red flag. So I’m hoping you can be there. In case he turns out to be an asshole” Daphne admitted.

“Don’t you have a brother for that” Harry grinned.

“You’ve met Augustus..”

“So you want me to play big brother” Harry grinned.

“Yes. It’s good practice for our children” Daphne said rubbing the side of Harry’s belly.

❧

“I see you got a new shirt” Mr Greengrass said hugging Harry warmly.

“Yeah. Had to upsize… again” Harry admitted.

“Happens to the best of us” Mr Greengrass smiled.

“So none of you know whose Astoria is dating?”

Mr Greengrass shifted, “No, but I know Astoria she’s not a wallflower. She’s formidable.”

“Here, pre dinner snacks” Daphne said handing her father and Harry a packet of crisps.

“Thank you” Harry smiled as he put an arm around her waist.

“Where’s mine?” Augustus said from the couch, his gut spilling out the bottom of a t-shirt.

“You don’t need the help” Daphne said wryly.

“Now, Now when are you two getting engaged” Mr Greengrass asked.

“Dad” Daphne groaned.

“We aren’t rushing” Harry said diplomatically. He wasn’t going to admit in front of Daphne he’d already chosen a ring from his family’s vault.

Daphne kissed Harry gently, “Exactly, I want to have have fun before we settle down.”

“Fun” Mr Greengrass.

“She means holiday” Harry added diplomatically.

“That’s right you’re going to do that…what was it.”

“Drive through Europe. See the sights eat the food” Harry grinned.

“Daphne, darling can you give me a hand” Mrs Greengrass called. “Did Astoria say if her boyfriend is a big eater.”

“If her boyfriend doesn’t eat it. Astoria will” Augustus called out.

“That’s not helping” Daphne called back.

Harry leaned over to Mr Greengrass, “I already have the ring picked out.”

“Splendid. I’m so pleased, Daphne has someone sensible. Some of the boys in her year were quite horrid” Mr Greengrass said squeezing Harry’s shoulder. “It’s a whole six months your gone?”

“Yeah. I mean this gut is getting harder to explain at work. And in all honesty I’m just tired” Harry explained patting his belly.

“You’ll be humongous when you get back” Mr Greengrass chuckled. “You and Augustus will be fat as houses.”

“I think you overestimate my appetite.”

“You underestimate my daughter” Mr Greengrass teased prodding Harry’s belly. “You’re one of the family now.”

The doorbell rang, and everything stopped.

“Speaking of” Harry said wryly.

Mrs Greengrass walked out and shared a slightly apprehensive look at her husband. “Game faces.”

Mr Greengrass waddled dutifully after his wife. Harry watched with amusement, as the door opened.

“You must be Astoria’s boyfriend she’s kept hidden from us” Mrs Greengrass said charmingly.

Harry felt Daphne’s arm wrap around his back. “Who is it?” She hissed.

“Can’t tell from here” Harry muttered.

“I’ve been lucky enough to get in Astoria’s good graces”

Daphne and Harry recognised the voice instantly. “It can’t be” they said in unison.

“You two spend too much time together” Augustus said smirking.

“Draco, this my sister and her boyfriend, and my older brother Augustus” Astoria introduced.

“Hello” Draco said looking visibly uncomfortable. Harry glanced over at Mr and Mrs Greengrass who were looking equally unsure.

Harry swallowed, and hugged Draco. “Malfoy, why didn’t you tell me” Harry said with firm but enthusiastic friendliness.

“Astoria wasn’t sure if I was good enough for her” Draco replied a little stiffly. “Potter, are we hugging friends?” He whispered.

“Go with it” Harry hissed. Before he broke the hug.

Astoria was looking at Harry dubiously.

“You could have told me” Harry said prodding Draco, and being surprised it was a lot softer than he was expecting.

Draco chuckled slightly forced, “You know now.”

Harry could feel everyone in the room, relax. Knowing that if Harry approved, then it would be okay.

“So how did you get together?” Daphne asked her arm wrapping around Harry’s waist.

“I hid him from Pansy, and then broke them up” Astoria said.

“And then he asked you out?” Augustus scofffed.

“She said no. I had to work for it” Draco admitted sheepishly.

“And it was worth it” Astoria teased.

“Yes. Yes it was” Draco smiled kissing her cheek.

“Of all the people you’d persue I didn’t think it would be Astoria” Daphne grinned teasingly.

“She’s very comfortable with herself. And I found that very… appealing.”

Harry grinned at Draco, he could read between the lines there. So could Daphne according to the amused snort from beside her.

“Oh don’t judge me” Astoria accused her sister.

“I’m not” Daphne said firmly.

“Well Harry is certainly an upgrade from Montague” Draco said wryly.

“That was mostly him” Daphne said annoyed.

“Potter is definitely an upgrade” Draco added wryly.

“Well now everyone’s here, girls help me with the table. Augustus get the drinks out” Mrs Greengrass smiled.

“Thank you. For accepting me” Draco said when he and Harry were left alone in the living room.

Harry shrugged, “I know you’ve been trying to distance yourself from the war.”

“I certainly wasn’t expecting to hear you had gotten with Daphne. If I’m honest I’m still slightly bemused by Astoria running the ‘Harry Potter Fan Club.’”

Harry grinned, “It’s the offical club now.”

“Must you enable her” Draco sighed, then scowled. “Speaking of writing. That story you penned.”

Harry grinned mischievously, “Don’t worry, it was in jest.”

“It was mortifying. You made me the bottom” Draco hissed.

Harry prodded Draco’s belly, “Are we going to talk about this?”

“Are we going to talk about yours?” Draco retorted.

Harry smiled wryly, “I fell in love with a great woman, who’s a brilliant cook” Draco answered.

“I see” Draco nodded. “Astoria wouldn’t even consider a date until I proved I was serious.”

Harry’s eyebrow shot up, “Really?” He chuckled.

“I had Hermione put together a diet plan to help me ‘bulk’ up.”

“That Hyporcite! She said I needed a diet.”

“She likes you. She tolerates me” Draco pointed out wryly.

“Still” Harry huffed annoyed, “And you do really like Astoria?”

“I love her quite a lot” Draco admitted. Harry seemed surprised at Draco’s honesty

“Daphne, well I love her” Harry said honestly.

“So I suppose we have a truce now” Draco nodded.

“Well, we’ve already failed at murdering each other. A truce is probably easier” Harry said wryly.

“Astoria, they love us” Daphne smiled touched.

“You’d hope so, with their waistlines” Astoria chuckled. “Dinner is ready. Hope you brought your appetites.”

❧

“Urrrrrpppp” Harry belched, “Ooh, I’m so full. I really shouldn’t have urrrrpp… said yes to that other dessert.”

Daphne smiled and gently patted his gut, “Yes you should” she said leading him over to her bed.

“And your parents don’t urrrp mind” he said uncertain as Harry looked around her childhood room.

“They like you Harry” Daphne said as she massaged his belly, “You are family.”

“I meant…ooof that’s urrrp great. Staying in your room” He murmured out of it.

“I promise it’s okay” Daphne reassured, encouraging Harry to sit down.

With an audible groan he sat on the side of the bed. “Fuck I feel full..”

“You ate a lot of food, you gave my brother a run for his money. Between you and Draco. Were you competing with him?” Daphne asked.

“Urrrrrrrppp” Harry belched.

“I think that’s a big greedy yes” Daphne smiled kissing him. “Some things never change.”

Daphne sat beside him her hands massaging Harry’s overfilled belly. “You are so full tonight, we’ll have to have Draco around more often.” She kissed him firmly, and Harry put his arm around her. Making out with her as she rubbed his bloated overly swollen gut. “I think you deserve a reward for being such a big glutton” she moaned breaking the kiss.

“Big…hog” Harry puffed as Daphne straddled him. He reached up and cupped her breasts. Wondering if his girlfriend would ever blow up fat.

“That’s right” Daphne smiled morning at Harry’s tender hands. “I need you.”

Harry nodded happily, he couldn’t say no to Daphne. He doubted he ever could.

They lay in bed, his arms cuddling her against his gut. As she smiled gently. “I’m so proud of how you embraced Draco. I know it meant a lot to Astoria.”

“Draco has been through a lot. He deserves to be happy” Harry admitted rubbing Astoria’s arse. “And seeing Draco become a fatty amuses me.”

“And it means you have a friend…who you can eat with.”

“Yeah” Harry sighed. “Hermione will get used to this. I hope.”

Daphne cuddled him, “hopefully” she rubbed Harry’s chest and kissed it gently. “Also you and my Dad are not remotely subtle. I know you’re planning about getting engaged.

Harry gasped in protest.

“Just make it romantic” Daphne reassured. “I’m going to say yes.”

Harry smiled, “you just did” he said pulling her in.

Daphne blinked at him and considered it. “I guess I did. You still have to propose.”

Harry chuckled and kissed her, “if I’m too full you might have to.”

Chapter 6

Draco

Draco greedily shoved the burger into his mouth. Chewing as he savoured the grease and oils. “Mhmm.”

Astoria eyed him as she waved her wand the pots stirring themselves. “Are you that hungry?”

“I’m pre eating. Because I’m certain my parents will make numerous comments about my weight.”

“So your plan is to eat normal amounts in front of them. And gorge when they’re out of sight” Astoria asked.

“Yesh” Draco answered as he unceremoniously forced the rest of the burger in. Cheeks bulging as he chewed. “Urrrrp.”

“That’s a ridiculous plan” Astoria said eyes narrowing.

“Perhaps, but I hope they aren’t planning on staying long” Draco admitted.

Astoria smiled and kissed Draco’s cheek. “Assuming they like me at all,”

“Your pure blood. They’ll like you.”

“Draco. We both know that my family isn’t traditionally your kind of pureblood” Astoria said honestly.

Draco frowned and walked over wiping his greasy fingers on his trousers before he leaned in and embraced Astoria. “You are my kind of woman. That’s the most important thing.” Draco’s fingers pressed into her fat round stomach, feeling the weight of her love handles. He pressed his gut against her back.

“And you are steadily becoming the perfect husband.”

“A depraved….urrrpp…pig?” Draco offered tracing the curve of Astoria’s belly with his finger.

Astoria laughed, and Draco smiled kissing her neck as he hugged her tighter.

“How is dinner coming.”

“Ready for your parents to arrive” Astoria smiled.

“I want them to like you. But no matter what they say, I love you” Draco reassured.

“You know. That’s not remotely reassuring” Astoria said wryly.

Draco sighed, “I suppose I’m used to thinking the worst.”

Astoria broke the hug and kissed him firmly. “I love you.”

“I love you too.”

There was a knock at the door.

Draco sighed and straightened, “here we go.” He opened the door to his apartment, his parents stood looking uncomfortable as they stood on the narrow landing between staircases. “Mother, Father. Welcome” he stepped back into the apartment.

They were both staring at him, looks of confusion, and concern flashing across their faces.

“Do I have something on my face?” Draco asked dryly.

“You just look…” Mother began.

“Healthy” Father said with an uncertain grimace.

“Well come in” Draco said stepping inside. His apartment was tiny, a bedroom, a living area with a small kitchen and a meger bathroom. The wallpaper was 100 years out of fashion and the kitchen was a little worn down, even if it all worked. His mother and Father looked around with concern.

“Mother, Father this is Astoria, my girlfriend” Draco said gesturing to Astoria who smiled warmly.

“Draco has spoken fondly of you both” Astoria lied effortlessly.

“Girlfriend?” Father said frowning.

“She’s a far better cook than I am” Draco admitted smiling at her. Draco noticed his mother glancing at his stomach.

“Astoria?” Mother said with a frown.

“Greengrass” Astoria said politely.

Both his parents looked surprised, “I see, what happened to that Parkinson girl?” Father questioned.

“They broke up” Astoria answered bluntly. “For the best. I think.”

“Really?” Mother said surprised. “She seemed lovely.”

“I suppose if you like vapid gold diggers, who are overly clingy” Astoria said under her breath. “Dinner” she said politely.

“Now now” Draco smiled wryly. “I’m sure Pansy will find someone equally as repugnant as her.”

“Now Draco, she is a lovely girl” Father said coolly.

Draco glanced at Astoria who rolled her eyes. “Well, if mother dies you can always take her as a second wife” Draco said wryly.

“Draco” Mother snapped.

“Why don’t we sit down” Astoria said amused.

“Quite” Mother said tensely.

Astoria had cooked a delightful meal, with chicken breast, vegetables dripping with butter and the creamiest sauce. Draco was completely certain she had outdone herself.

“This is delicious” Draco said to Astoria.

“There’s a lot of butter” Father commented taking a bite.

“Nothing wrong with that” Draco admitted, “I’ve been very lucky to have Astoria’s support, she made my final year of school much more tolerable.”

“So Darling, what are you doing for work? You were trying to get into St Mungo’s healing program.”

Astoria raised an eyebrow at him.

“Ah. I unfortunately didn’t get in, I now work in the Missuse of Muggle Artifacts department at the Ministry.”

“Arthur Weasley’s department” Father said with a grimace.

“He’s my boss” Draco said swallowing a mouthful of food.

“Is there not other work you could find?” mother said more diplomatically than father would have managed.

“No. Hardly anyone is desperate to hire a former Death Eater. So the support of Arthur Weasley has been helpful. It’s certainly enough that I’ll be able to support Astoria and I’s eventual family.”

Cutlery clattered to the table.

“Now Draco” Father began.

“Why do I think I’m going to need this” Astoria muttered taking a swig of her wine. “Please, go on with slandering my character.”

Draco smiled proudly at Astoria.

“She’s just not the right kind of pure blood.”

“As opposed to what?” Draco said feeling his frustration.

“You know what your father means” Mother said trying to sound kind.

“He does. But I think he wants you to say it” Astoria said.

“That her family are blood traitors, or near enough. She is not the kind of person you should date.”

“Enough” Draco snapped firmly. “She is everything you aren’t, and frankly neither of you are in the position to criticise. Astoria is the one thing that has been keeping me together. So while she not the kind of person you saw me marrying, but she is kind, and confident in herself. And holds me to high standards, and I need that. I need her. And one day she will have my children. You have the courtesy of meeting her, your approval is not required.”

Silence fell over the table. Father cleared his throat, his expression unyielding. “I see, then you had better hope it is the right choice.”

“It is” Draco said meeting his gaze.

“Are you planning to diet? Because you’re looking fat..” Mother said simply.

“No. He is not” Astoria said calmly, “He was practically wasting away.”

“That’s overselling it” Draco defended. “But I’m quite content.”

“He was rail thin, his father is no better. It’s like neither of them has enjoyed a good meal.”

“Nonsense” Father dismissed.

“I think that’s what your family does” Astoria muttered quietly. She glanced at Draco, “You wanted to be a professional Quidditch Player? Didn’t you?”

“That would never have done” Father answered abruptly.

“Exactly. This family always holds you back, generation after generation. Making all the Malfoy men became the same man. What did you want to be when you’re young?” Astoria asked Father.

Father was silent for a long moment, “A chef.”

Astoria laughed, her belly jiggling. “Of course.”

“You wanted to cook, and weren’t allowed. So you held yourself back. That trauma inflicted on generation after generation.”

Draco smiled, leaning over and kissing her. “I’m breaking the cycle. Because I’m not inheriting anything. The Power we had is gone. So I’m making a choice, and that choice is Astoria.”

Draco looked at the faces of his parents, the quiet restraint.

“I imagine you don’t agree. So let me double down” Draco said firmly. “I’m happier with Astoria than I have been in a long time. She’s an incredible cook, so personally I don’t intend on loosing any weight. I enjoy my job at the ministry. If you are not happy with that, then you may suffer in silence.”

❧

Draco took a bite of the pastry in one hand, coffee in the other, as he walked down the familiar corridor of the ministry of magic. He pushed open the door with an elbow, as he saw the large auror department with its usual brand of chaos. He glanced over, intending to wave at Potter if he was at his desk.

He immediately spotted Hermione hovering nearby. Normally he’d have left them alone but he could see the pained look on Potter’s face.

Draco wandered over between the cubicles taking a bite of the pastry. He wondered what they were discussing, and how much he’d have to eavesdrop.

“Ron and I are concerned” Hermione said firmly, and loudly enough that no eves dropping was required.

“Don’t bring me into it” Ron loudly protested. He suddenly looked rather cowed. “Hermione and I are concerned” Ron parroted in monotone.

Draco grinned and shoved the rest of the pastry into his mouth, licking his fingers in the process. Didn’t want a waste a bit of powdered icing sugar. Whatever drama had Ron and Hermione against Harry had to be good.

“We don’t like Daphne, we’re glad you’re happy. But…” Hermione looked at Ron.

Which seemed useless in Draco’s opinion.

“You’re getting fat. Fatter than Neville fat” Ron offered bluntly.

A balled up piece of parchment flew and hit Ron in the head.

“I lost weight” Neville’s annoyed voice answered from behind another cubicle.

“Fatter than your cou.. okay you’re not that big yet. But the point is you’re getting there.”

“I’m not breaking up with Daphne” Harry said calmly. “And it’s not fair of either of you to ask that.”

“Harry. Since you’ve come back from Europe, your two stone bigger. It’s concerning.”

Draco took a swig of his coffee, “Potter, I need your ‘expert’ eye. I’m sure this conversation about dieting can happen later.”

Hermione, Ron, and Harry all looked at Draco. “It can wait” Hermione said frowning.

Draco took a casual sip of his coffee, “It can’t. And frankly I thought you of all people would be above body shaming someone. You’re dating Weasley and look at him, there’s a lot to be ashamed about. Everthing is out of proportion.”

Ron gave him the finger.

“Draco. Frankly you need…”

Draco held up his hand.

“I’m happy, Potter’s happy. Perhaps we leave the conversation there. Harry is not your child, he is an adult who is capable of making decisions for himself.”

“Exactly” Harry nodded patting his belly. He heaved himself up.

“Blimey mate, really need to lay of the pies” Ron said prodding Harry’s belly.

Harry batted his hand away, “I’ve seen how you eat Ron.”

“Ron eats perfectly well” Hermione huffed.

“Only when your around” Harry said walking over to Draco. “What do you need me to look at.”

“This way” Draco smiled, as he led him away toward his office. “I figured you needed rescuing.”

“Thanks” Harry sighed.

“It seems a bit hypocritical on her part, she does realise Weasley will resemble a pig at the county fair the moment he stops trying” Draco commented.

Harry chuckled and shrugged, “I haven’t told them Daphne said yes.”

“Ah” Draco commented. “I was going to mention something at the next family dinner, Astoria suggested it. But look,” he held open the door to the Missuse of Magical Artifacts. “My Collegue, retired so currently it’s just Arthur and I. And this is largely a desk job..” Draco suggested.

“Oh?” Harry said confused, “Oh.” He realised “Yes.”

“Arthur I’ve found a replacement for .”

“Oh?” Arthur Weasley lifted his head from behind a stack of broken computer monitors, and smiled at the sight of Harry. “Hello Harry, wanting to join us then?”

“Yeah I do, I need a change” Harry confirmed.

Draco smirked in delight.

Chapter 7

Daphne (Wedding)

“Breakfast is Ready” Daphne called from the makeshift kitchen of the tent. It wasn’t as equipped as at home. As the temporary nature, meant Daphne had to adapt. However she seemed to manage.

“Brilliant” Harry said as he heaved himself out of the camping chair, and slowly walked over. “Smells delicious.”

“It’s not as good as normal, I mean Hermione bought Margerine rather than butter. But..” Daphne said.

Harry sighed, “Camping…”

Daphne plated up some pancakes for Harry, and scooped some bacon onto his tray. She patted his backside warmly. “Go eat.”

“If we have to endure another hike. I might riot” Harry grunted as he shoved a mouthful of bacon.

Daphne grinned, “Well, we agreed to this, to tell them about our engagement”

“Yes. Still I know it’s a not so subtle…” Harry said patting his gut. He had managed to finish the stack of pancakes, wolfing them down probably quicker than he ought too.

Daphne knew what he was doing, the moment Ron and Hermione arrived Harry would be judged for how much he ate. Daphne filled Harry’s plate.

“What’s for breakfast?” Ron asked as he popped his head through the tent flap.

“Pancakes” Daphne said wryly.

She offered Ron a plate with a much smaller stack than Harry. Although Harry’s intentionally rapid eating, meant the stacks had evened up.

“Brilliant, thanks” Ron said. “This will be good energy for the hike.”

Daphne forced a smile, “Yes the hike.” She glanced at Harry who grimaced. She couldn’t help but smile at that.

The flap opened and Hermione walked in, “Good Morning. Is that Breakfast, she carried a plastic tub of fruit.”

“It is” Ron said, “These are great.”

Daphne filled her own plate, although she hadn’t been particularly hungry. She wasn’t certain if it was the outdoors, or the fact she was a week late on her period. She sat opposite Harry, and nodded at him, as he swallowed a forkful of pancake.

Harry nodded, looked down at his belly, “Err right yeah, So Daphne and I we have some news.”

“Really? Are you finally taking our hints and going on a diet?” Ron said swallowing a mouthful of pancake.

Harry reddened slightly, “Erm no. Daphne and I are engaged.”

Silence fell over the table.

“Oh” Hermione said a little startled.

“I proposed when we were away” Harry admitted.

“But that was weeks ago” Ron frowned.

Daphne rubbed her leg against Harry’s.

“I would have told you sooner, but every conversation lately has ended up about my weight” Harry said bluntly.

“Oh” Ron said looking guilty.

“I’m Happy for you” Hermione said.

Daphne raised an eyebrow, she’d have commented but these were Harry’s friends. She also knew he was more than capable of defending himself.

“I’m also not going to diet, or apologise for my weight. I’m happy. Happy and content in a way I haven’t been for a long time” Harry said firmly. “If you don’t like it. Keep it to yourself.”

The silence continued, Daphne just smiled as she took a large sip of tea. With her other hand she pulled out the ring Harry had proposed with and slid it on her finger.

“That ring is huge” Hermione gasped.

Harry grinned proudly, “Daphne deserves the best.”

Ron looked over at Harry, “congratulations mate. I’m sorry I’ve been a bloody prat. But you are looking really fat.”

“Daphne’s a good cook, and honestly best thing I ever did” Harry said patting his gut.

Hermione looked over at Daphne, “I’m sorry, I suppose I have been taking it a bit far.”

“You have” Daphne agreed, “But your Harry’s friends, it wasn’t my place to stay anything” she commented. “And I like my men thick.”

Harry winked proudly, Hermione rolled her eyes. Harry just grinned further.

“If you’re getting married, have you chosen who’s going to be your best man?” Ron enquired.

“Yeah I asked Draco” Harry nodded.

“Oh right. Yeah…”

“To be a groomsman, of course it’d be you. Idiot” Harry grinned.

“Blimey, you scared me for a minute there” Ron said panicked.

“The look on your face. Worth it” Harry grinned.

Ron elbowed Harry’s gut, “Watch it porky, or I’ll make you exercise.”

“I’d like you to be a bridesmaid, and no none of the other slytherin girls will be. I’m not dealing with their egos” Daphne said to Hermione. “it’s my wedding, not their second divorce.”

“I’d like that. Thank you” Hermione nodded. “If we aren’t going on a hike, there is a museum in the town I’d like to look at.”

Ron and Harry groaned in protest, before eyeing each other and quietly mouthing ‘pub.’

❧

Daphne took a sip of her coffee, as she glanced at Hermione as they walked down the high street. “Thank you, for coming along. I needed someone sensible.”

“It’s no problem, I just had to shift a couple of meetings around” Hermione admitted with a shrug.

“It‘ll just be my mum and sister” Daphne reassured, “I never wanted to be one of those girls with six bridesmaids.”

Hermione nodded, “I never understood that.”

“My mother doesn’t even talk to half of hers” Daphne said wryly, “So I picked the two people I know i won’t loose touch with. One of Harry’s best friends and my sister.”

“Smart” Hermione chuckled, “When are the boys getting fitted.”

“I advised Harry to do it closer to the date, but not leave it to the last minute.”

“Why that late. Oh..silly question.”

Daphne grinned, “I know my fiancé well.”

“So why a muggle place? I assumed you’d go for Wizarding fashion.”

“Wizarding fashion hasn’t changed since the 1890’s. I am definitely wearing a muggle dress” Daphne smiled. “My parents were always very supportive of muggles.”

“You did Muggle Studies, with me!” Hermione recalled.

“I did. Now that was a bit of a bludge subject. It was embarrassing sometimes.”

“You know how to use a phone right?” Hermione asked.

“We have a landline yes, Dad even bought one of those Mobiles, a few years back” Daphne commented.

“Oh thank god, the amount of times I’ve had to explain things to Ron” Hermione sighed. “Basic things.”

Daphne laughed, “Wizards are very sheltered. Dad invested in the Wizard Tv station they tried to start.”

“I read about that” Hermione said impressed. “They really could have made something of it. But sometimes it feels like change in the wizarding world is like pushing a boulder uphill.”

“Yeah. Be grateful you didn’t have to suffer through seven years of Slytherin.”

“I suffered in a different way” Hermione sighed.

“I’m sorry for that. I know I didn’t participate, but I didn’t stop it either” Daphne admitted.

Hermione squeezed Daphne’s arm. “Thank you. So do you have any idea what kind of dress.”

Daphne laughed, “Something white.”

“Really?” Hermione laughed.

“This is it” Daphne said pushing open the glass door. Inside was dozens of white dresses, the walls cream and a lush carpet.

“Mum, this is Hermione, my other bridesmaid.”

❧

“How’s it like out there?” Daphne asked Astoria who was peeking out the doorway.

“Mum and Dad are being very very social” Astoria commented.

“Dad knows he has to walk me down the aisle right” Daphne asked curiously.

“He does. I think he just wants to be supportive, but Harry is very well… Is that Viktor Krum.”

“I told you he was coming” Daphne said.

“We dated briefly” Hermione commented wryly. “Ron still gets awkward.”

“You dated…Ron really has to be the one” Astoria murmured.

“You’re spending too much time with Draco” Daphne teased.

“Harry looks excited, although that suit looks uncomfortably tight” Astoria said amused.

“That was my fault. We did cake testing last month” Daphne said wryly. “He ate four whole cakes.”

“Merlin he’s become a pig” Hermione gasped.

“Yes he has. Personally I love seeing Draco getting all competitive over each other” Astoria commented. “WOW he got fat..”

“Who did?!?” Daphne and Hermione asked in unison.

“Montague” Astoria said amused.

“Who invited my ex?” Daphne frowned.

“Oh” Hermione realised, “He’s Ginny’s plus one.”

“How fat is he?” Daphne smirked.

“Well he’s waddled from the door to the back pew and he’s already sweating and out of breath” Astoria commented.

“Well I can’t be blamed then” Daphne dismissed. “Ginny can have him”

“Honestly I don’t think they’ll last” Hermione admitted. “Unless she see’s something we don’t.”

“He was a bit dull. I won’t lie” Daphne said honestly. “Who else can you see?”

“Oliver Wood, he’s looking swollen. Someone has developed a taste for beer. He’s sitting toward the back on Harry’s side. He’s got his wife Katie Bell and their kids, actually she looks…oh no wait. She’s just pregnant.”

“Another child already” Hermione tutted.

“Aren’t you dating Ron. His family breed like rabbits” Daphne said wryly.

“That’s different” Hermione commented. “Is Pansy there?”

“Errr…ah. Yes she’s practically drooling over Cormac Mclaggen. Who’s flexing.”

“Harry invited Cormac? Really?” Hermione said shaking her head. “Pansy can have him, although they’d be insufferable.”

“There’s Harry’s cousin. Dermot, I can’t remember” Astoria muttered. “And…someone is snogging in the corner..come on. I want to see who” Astoria muttered.

Daphne chuckled, “I doubt it’s anyone interesting.”

“Ah. It’s Neville, Neville’s gay?” Astoria pulled her head in and glanced at Hermione.

“He was saying he was going to bring his boyfriend” Hermione confirmed.

“Who is it?” Daphne asked intrigued.

“Trying to see” Astoria said watching carefully through the narrow gap. “Get out of the way creevy, I don’t need to see your big gut…” she muttered. “Ah..”

Daphne raised an eyebrow. “So?”

“He’s snogging Theo.”

“Nott?” Daphne asked.

“Yeah, he’s getting plump, I didn’t recognise him at first” Astoria commented.

“Oh. Neville mentioned something about it’s supposed to assist in Male conception” Hermione, “after Harry, I decided not to ask.”

Daphne chuckled, “well maybe we can embarrass Pansy before the day is out.”

“Do that later Dad’s coming, so places” Astoria warned moving back from the door.

Daphne turned back to the mirror and gave her reflection one last look at her reflection. Her makeup was perfect, her hair neat and lightly curled.

“You look perfect” Hermione reassured.

Daphne nodded, “It still feels odd and exciting.”

“Nerves are a good thing, or so I’m told” Hermione admitted.

Daphne nodded, she wanted to marry Harry. If anything it was just the whole song and dance, that made her nervous.

“Knock, Knock” Dad said as he slowly opened the door.

“Yes. Everyone’s decent” Astoria sighed predicting his next words.

“Splendid” Dad smiled patting his belly as it was squeezed into a suit. “My girls” he smiled at Astoria. “You look perfect, your wedding day will be next.”

Astoria rolled her eyes, “maybe I’ll elope.”

“Your mother will hunt you down if you try” Dad said chuckling. “I want a father daughter dance later.”

“Yes Dad” Astoria nodded.

“My Daphne, look at you” Dad beamed and sniffed. “You look beautiful.”

Daphne blushed, “Thanks Dad.”

“I want to hug you, but it’ll ruin your dress” Dad sniffed, “now everyone’s here, so we’re ready to go.”

Daphne nodded, “Would you help me with my veil?”

Dad beamed with pride, “Of course” he said as he waddling over. His fat fingers grabbed the veil and gently lifted it over Daphne’s face. “There” he smiled fondly. “You and Harry will be very happy together.”

“I think so too” Daphne agreed.

“Now I believe Hermione is first” Dad said as he held open the door, he waved his wand and music began to play.

Dad took Daphne’s arm, and she watched as Hermione, followed by Astoria walked up the aisle. Then it was her turn.

“Ready?” Dad asked gently.

“Yes”

Dad took Daphne’s arm and slowly led her up the aisle. Everyone was staring and smiling at her. It made her heart sing, as she reached the front. Harry stood waiting, a big smile on his face, his double chin bulging slightly.

“She’s all yours” Dad grinned with a chuckle.

“Hello” Harry said gently. “May I?”

“Always” Daphne said as Harry lifted the veil. Daphne knew from the look on her soon to be husband’s face, he desperately wanted to kiss her. And Daphne knew that Harry would be who she spent the rest of her life with.

❧

“My Beautiful wife? for some odd reason my dinner keeps reappearing” Harry grinned, as he looked over at her.

“Well I know you haven’t eaten all morning, and I figured you’d appreciate a few extra servings” Daphne said wryly.

“Can I marry you again?” Harry smiled leaning over and kissing her cheek.

Daphne kissed him back and she leaned in and rubbed Harry’s bloated belly, he was very full. “Absolutely” she said wryly. “Although I don’t know if you’re going to manage to fit in our wedding cake.”

“There is always room for cake” Harry promised.

“That I can believe” Daphne said amused. “Aren’t you glad we danced before dinner.”

“If it was after it’d be more of a belch and waddle” Harry said wryly.

“It was kind of that already, but you’ve never been the strongest dancer” Daphne said leaning against Harry.

“That’s fair” Harry agreed patting his gut. “Urrrrrrrpppp. I think. I’m done…” he puffed.

“You sure?” Daphne enquired.

“Yeah, otherwise you’ll be rolling me to bed” Harry smiled heaving an arm around Daphne. “I love you. I love your family, I love having you by my side, and I can’t wait to start a family with you.”

“Good” Daphne said her hand rubbing Harry’s belly. “Because I want to have your babies.”

“Merlin, you are aware we can hear you both” Draco grimaced.

“Draco, we’ve seen the way you look at Astoria don’t act like you have any more self control” Daphne replied. Daphne slid out her wand and tapped Harry’s plate, and the remnants of dinner disappeared.

“Cake?” Harry said licking his lips with gluttonous delight.

“Almost” Daphne teased.

Chapter 8

Astoria. (Engagement)

“Your boyfriend is here” Maddison said as she came in with a sheet of paper. “You should put him on a diet.”

“And ruin all the work I’ve put into him, never” Astoria said with a smile. “I’ll sort out his order. I’m finished anyway.”

“Good. I’ll give him a muffin to start” Maddison said shaking her head.

“You can judge me when you’ve got a boyfriend” Astoria grinned. She glanced up and smiled as Draco sat at one of the outdoor tables, his work robes straining. She could tell he’d had a good day, he didn’t have that exhausted look in his eyes.

“I won’t be caught with a boyfriend like that” Maddison laughed, as she took out a muffin on a plate.

“Don’t knock it till you try it” Astoria watched and began assembling the tray of baked muffins. Draco did this every payday, as his treat. Before saving a lot of the rest after paying his bills.

She glanced up as she wondered if she should slip an extra, of the blueberry muffins that hadn’t sold particularly well that day. A figure it took her a second to recognise sat down opposite Draco. He was a little shorter although he looked like he had a muffin top developing under his sweater and loose billowing robes. “Theodore Nott..” she muttered curiously.

Astoria assembled the tray, and carried it outside. She stood by the door, mostly curious to see what would happen. Draco hadn’t mentioned he’d become friends with Theo again.

“What on earth have you done to yourself” Theo snapped.

Astoria could tell the comment stung a little more than Draco expected, but his appearance was a little shocking if you hadn’t seen him in some time. Draco’s face was puffier and he had developed a double chin that wobbled under his round face. His body once rail thin body that resembled an anemic Victorian, now bulged like an overripe pumpkin was being smuggled under his sweater. Astoria had to admit the sight was striking.

“Bugger off Nott” Draco snapped sourly as he shoved a muffin into his mouth. Chewing it greedily.

“Am I not allowed to show concern?” Nott asked with an amused smile. “You’ve swelled up, I knew you were struggling after Pansy dumped you. I didn’t realise it was that bad.”

Of course Pansy had said as much. Astoria still didn’t understand the point of inviting Pansy to her wedding, even if she had spent much of it fawning over Cormac Mclaggen.

“What?” Draco spluttered muffin crumbs spraying out.“You are aware I have a girlfriend and have done for quite sometime?”

“No. Pansy has been telling everyone that this” Theo leaned over and prodded Draco’s belly. “Was comfort eating. That you were struggling after she dumped you.”

“Hardly. As I said, I had a girlfriend she was with me at Daphne’s wedding.”

“You’re dating Hermione…” Nott grimaced.

“….no” Draco said frowning. “Why on earth would you think that.”

Astoria saunted over to the table, and placed the tray on the table. “Your order” Astoria said as she leaned over and kissed Draco on his sweaty forehead. “He’s dating me.”

“Daphne’s sister?” Theo frowned.

“Daphne’s sister has a name” Astoria said firmly. “Let me just get my stuff, and then we can go.”

Draco nodded and put his arm around Astoria pulling her close. His hand cupping her lovehandle. “She’s my wonderful girlfriend and she’s triple the woman pansy ever was.”

“Triple the size too” Theo replied bluntly.

Astoria wasn’t surprised most of the guys in slytherin were anaemic to the idea of a fat girlfriend. Before Draco could come to her defence Astoria grabbed a muffin and shoved it into Theo’s mouth. “People in glass houses shouldn’t throw stones. That gut under there is clear as day.”

Theo’s face went scarlet, and he forced the muffin down, Draco was looking at Astoria with utter delight. “Merlin I love you.”

“I know” Astoria said as Draco leaned against her belly. “You can tell Pansy to keep her trap shut. Because frankly her obsession is creepy, a girl might feel threatened and have to go to the ministry.”

Draco bit back a grin and nodded enthusiastically, “It’s been very trying. We feel harassed.”

Astoria couldn’t help but adore that Draco was effortlessly on the same page with her. “Obviously she’s been doing this campaign against us” Astoria sniffed, pretending she was on the verge of tears.

Theo’s eyes narrowed, “Honestly I’ve read more believable stories in Witch Weekly.”

Draco grinned, “But it could easily be true. Couldn’t it. Certainly my reputation has been mended somewhat by my close allies and friends.”

“I’m going to get my stuff and then we can go, if you’re ready” Astoria said kissing Draco fondly.

“I’ll be right here” Draco smiled at her delighted.

“You do really love her” Theo commented.

“Obviously” Draco replied bluntly, as Astoria couldn’t help but grin as she walked back into the cafe.

❧

“You know, I’ve had better date nights” Astoria said wryly. As she signed the bottom of the page.

“I feel like a bottle of red wine would really tie the whole theme together” Draco quipped.

Astoria smiled and kissed him gently, she looked down at the statement. “Are we prodding the hornets nest?”

Draco sighed, “Possibly, but Pansy is not someone who will give up. Evidently if she’s spent the last couple of years trashing me at every opportunity that’s plainly clear. I want to close the book on that chapter of my life.”

Astoria smiled, “You spoke to Harry about it?”

Draco shifted slightly, “Yes, and Hermione.” Astoria looked at him waiting for an answer. “They said to throw the book at her.”

Astoria laughed, “Okay. Let’s do it then”

“You trust their judgement over mine?” Draco frowned.

“I trust that you are frustrated at her actions, and you’re protective over me. I just wanted to make sure our retaliation was to scale.”

Draco smiled gently, “At least you’re honest.”

“We’re built on trust. We have to be” Astoria smiled, “and I wanted to be sure we weren’t being vindictive towards someone who was feeling hurt.”

After all some bullies did have hearts. But was glad she was sure. Pansy had made a lot of girls lives miserable. But she always assumed it was stress related to the war.

“All done?” (The Auror asked)

“All done” Astoria said.

“As I said. You have a lot of good case here for a restraining hex. Even if it’s temporary, most people tend to get the point.”

“Hopefully it sends a clear message” Draco agreed. “Should we go? I’m in the mood for Portuguese chicken.”

“Just say Nando’s” Astoria said wryly. “You sound very pretentious.”

“I am pretentious” Draco said with a wry smile.

Astoria rolled her eyes hard, “come on.”

❧

Astoria still couldn’t fathom what had possessed Draco to suggest a walk up a hill. In the middle of summer. Certainly she was already puffing, as a sheen of sweat now covered her forehead. “Dra..co..” Astoria puffed.

Draco turned back to her, he was maybe a few steps ahead. His face was nervous with worry, “It’s a little further. It seemed a little easier when I was looking at it” he admitted holding up the picnic basket. “We will definitely apparate home.”

Daphne smiled and stroked Draco’s belly which bulged out the bottom of his t-shirt. “Next time warn me. I’m not built for this much exercise. Neither is this outfit, I’ll burn.”

Draco smiled, “You’d look nice in pink.” He followed up by playfully prodding Astoria’s exposed belly. As it held her maxi skirt tight, her blouse covering her large breasts and that’s about it.

“Thank you, but still” Astoria said wryly.

“No walking in future. Noted” Draco smiled fondly. “It’s a little further. Then we can stop.”

Astoria groaned playfully in protest, she squeezed Draco’s hand, and let him lead her up the hill. To Draco’s credit the view was beautiful, it looked over a large valley with a small village and you could just see the sea in the distance.

“It looks beautiful” Astoria admitted.

“I know. I’m told it’s the best view of the Village” Draco as he placed down the picnic basket, waving his wand as a picnic blanket shot out and spread itself across the ground.

“What is the village, I don’t visit this part of England often.”

“Ottery St Catchpoole, there’s a small but friendly wizarding community.

Chapter 9

Daphne (Baby)

Daphne rubbed her stomach. There was a curve now, she’d managed to keep it quiet for the wedding. Not that she didn’t want to tell people.

Harry knew.

Harry was so happy, she knew why. Harry never considered he’d get to be happy, have a family of his own. She knew what it meant.

“You’re starting to show” Harry said from the doorway.

“Yeah. Not going to be able to hide it much longer” Daphne said wryly.

“We’ll just tell people we had a very busy honeymoon” Harry said as he hugged her enthusiastically. “Although if you’re getting fat we can hide it for longer.”

Daphne laughed and leaned her head back against Harry’s soft shoulder. “Oh no, maybe I’m just getting too comfortable in my relationship.”

Harry snorted, “Mhmm. I don’t mind one ounce.”

“I’m glad I married you” Daphne said wryly. “Also my breasts have gotten bigger.”

“I’ve noticed” Harry beamed. “They’re almost melons.”

Daphne playfully whacked him before he chuckled, “Your ridiculous.”

“I have my moments”

❧

“Mrs Potter” The nurse announced in the waiting room.

Harry heaved himself up, groaning as he heaved his fattened body to his feet, he offered a hand to Daphne.

Daphne smiled and carefully heaved herself to feet, feeling her body jiggle in the process. Her belly was becoming quite prominent, she felt her breath catch as she leaned on Harry.

“I’ve got you” he said holding her arm.

“Thanks” Daphne sighed, “How many months left?”

Harry chuckled and kissed her warmly, “Five ish.”

Daphne rubbed her belly, “They are going to be big.”

“I mean” Harry patted his belly.

“I brought it on myself” Daphne said wryly. As they followed a healer into an examination room.

“I’ll just get you onto here for me” she gestured to a leather exam table. Daphne sat down on the paper sheet, the table adjusting so she could eventually slightly lean back.

“How have you been since our last appointment?” The Healer enquired.

“Not too bad, although I’ve been having a bit of back pain.”

“Of course that’s a normal thing, don’t work yourself too hard and try to avoid straining it” The Healer warned.

Daphne nodded as she explained all the changes, that had been happening with her body. Harry was beside her squeezing her hand as he listened supportively.

“Now should we have a look at your baby?”

“I’d love that” Daphne smiled. “Harry’s excited.”

“Now did you want to know the gender? I know last time you said you didn’t.”

“I wanted to find out with Harry” Daphne smiled looking at Harry.

“Well then” The healer smiled and pulled out a syringe and carefully wrapped a band around her arm. Daphne looked away as her arm was pricked. She looked back and the Healer was already tapping the wound with her wand.

The healer moved over to a wide lipped but squat looking cauldron. Already there was a liquid simmering away.

The healer stirred it with her wand and carefully poured the blood in. Sure enough an image began to form in the pool of liquid. Solid clumps rising to the surface.

Harry had a very confused look on his face.

“It’s like a magic ultrasound” Daphne explained.

“Huh” Harry nodded, understanding the what but not the how.

“Sort of a reversed (scrying thing)”

“Uh huh” Harry said not any wiser.

“If you have a look” The healer said pointing, “That’s the head, and the body. And just there is his penis?”

“We’re having a boy?” Harry blinked.

“Girls don’t tend to have penises” Daphne said wryly.

“I know. It’s just. We’re having a baby boy” Harry murmured a smile breaking across his face.

Daphne smiled and looked at him fondly. “We are”

Harry leaned over and kissed her fondly.

❧

Daphne was almost due when she was strong armed into having a baby shower. Her parents agreed to host it, as her and Harry were trying to Baby proof Grimauld Place while trying to clear it out. They’d made a lot of progress. Impressively smashing a painting with a sticking charm attached to it with a sledge hammer. Tends to stop it.

But it wasn’t quite the place to hold a baby shower. So her mother had insisted, and soon the whole place was decorated with baby blue bunting and decorations, it all felt a little over the top.

“I’ve decided I’m not doing this for my baby” Astoria whispered as they watched their mother fuss around the kitchen.

“It makes her happy” Daphne commented, watching as her mother piped up icing onto cupcakes. “I think.”

Astoria suppressed a chuckle, “I’m so glad you had to go all through this first, and I bring the black sheep. Don’t have too.”

“You’re hardly the black sheep” Daphne said rolling her eyes.

“The obese sheep then” Astoria shrugged.

Daphne looked at her sister firmly.

“Mum has never loved my size, and I’m too stubborn to diet” Astoria pointed out.

“She’ll be on my back after this” Daphne admitted rubbing her prominent belly. “My son, is a big boy.”

“Are you talking about me or junior?” Harry asked poking his head in from outside. His nice shirt uncomfortably straining across his belly, so much so his buttons looked as if they might riot at any given moment.

“You had better not be planning to call your child Harry Junior” Draco said with visible distaste as he waddled up beside Daphne. Draco while not quite as fat as Harry. He was certainly catching up although Draco had a much more pillowy appearance than Harry’s engorged belly.

“We’re not” Daphne chuckled, “it’s a lot for someone to live up too.”

“I don’t know. I’ll just be a fat obese Dad” Harry said wryly. “I doubt he’ll believe i was a war hero.”

“I don’t think he’ll be aloud to forget” Draco said quietly.

“Cupcakes are done. Now if you boys can take these outside, there should be guests floo’ing any minute.”

“I’ll take some” Daphne warned.

“You are much too pregnant” Mum insisted. “Astoria can.”

Astoria rolled her eyes, “cheers. So if I become much too pregnant I can avoid housework?” She enquired with a wry smile.

“Only when there’s guests” Mum replied without missing a beat.

Draco shook his head knowingly.

Sure enough guests began arriving, Daphne had insisted that only Harry’s school friends were invited. Although Draco did invite Theo, he did arrive but Draco suspected it was only on the promise of food.

“Won’t be long now. I’ve been knitting non stop” Mrs Weasley smiled as she sat down in a chair beside Astoria. “Has anyone warned you yet.”

“Warned me?” Daphne enquired curiously.

“About labour.”

Ah.

“They have not” Daphne admitted.

Mrs Weasley squeezed Daphne’s hand gently. “Things will happen that you won’t be able to take back.”

Daphne frowned confused, she looked over at her mother who was playing gracious hostess. She wondered why her Mum hadn’t mentioned any of this. “Such as.”

Mrs Weasley leaned in, “With all the pressure and movement sometimes, you can defecate.”

Oh my god.

Daphne found herself mildly reeling at the fact Harry might see her.

“And that’s not all.”

“That’s not all?” Daphne said wondering how it could get worse.

“Our bodies are pliable to a point” Mrs Weasley began. Daphne didn’t like the sound of where this was going. “It’s not uncommon to tear.”

“Tear?” Daphne asked hoping it didn’t suggest what she thought it suggested.

“Unfortunately, it’s a quick fix but it does mean you’ll be waddling for a few more days after you birth” Mrs Weasley said diplomatically.

Daphne sighed, “It’s because I’m looking big isn’t it.”

“I carried big too, and I thought you’d appreciate the warning” Mrs Weasley said with a knowing smile. “And don’t worry, men don’t notice a difference after.”

Daphne snorted with laughter, “I’m glad. Harry hasn’t minded how fat I’ve gotten.”

Mrs Weasley offered a devilish smile, “The best men enjoy it more.”

Daphne knew at once the kind of Husband Mr Weasley was. She also completely understood why they had so many kids.

“Why did you stop having kids? If you don’t mind me asking” Daphne enquired, hoping it wasn’t too rude.

Mrs Weasley squeezed Daphne’s hand, “Money.”

“There were gaps between my children, and Arthur worked hard. But after Ginny, we just knew there would be only so far we could stretch things without me going to work” Mrs Weasley sighed, “If we were richer I don’t think we’d have stopped.”

“It’s not too late” Daphne offered.

Mrs Weasley laughed, “You are a very sweet young lady. But no it’s too late, I’m a grandmother with numerous daughters in law. Official and Unofficial.”

“I know Harry sees you as his family” Daphne admitted, “And I appreciate your warning.”

“Some people feel it silly to give such warnings. I heartily disagree” Mrs Weasley smiled. “And I think you look beautiful, irregardless of how fat you are.”

Daphne smiled warmly, “It’s always nice to hear. The amount of comments I get.”

“My daughter in law who was very thin when she married Bill. After two children she puts me to shame, no one will fault you for letting yourself go in motherhood” Mrs Weasley smiled, “Anyone who does, clearly is projecting their insecurities.”

Daphne smiled and rubbed her belly as Mrs Weasley waddled away, “You have some very loving grandparents.”

❧

Daphne still felt exhausted, but she’d eaten and the nurses had let her sleep. When she thought she’d pull an all nighter she imagined it would be due to drinking all night, not going into labor prior to her going to bed.

James Sirius Potter was a very pudgy infant who apparently would be in the 95th percentile. He was big, but perfect.

She was also grateful for Mrs Weasley’s advice, having sure enough ripped. It was mended but she was warned to take it easy for a little while. At least she didn’t have c-section.

“Okay. I went home and got you fresh clothes” Harry grinned as he waddled in carrying a bag. “And all your stuff.”

Daphne smiled at Harry, and squinted as she noticed the powdered sugar around her lips. “Did you stop for donuts.”

“No… Yes. I was gonna leave some for you, and then I got hungry in the lift.”

Daphne snorted, “I have completely ruined you.”

“I did some of the ruining” Harry admitted.

“You did” Daphne agreed.

“Are you sure on the name James?”

“It’s a family name, and it’s nice tribute” Daphne smiled gently.

“It’s a lot of legacy” Harry murmured

“Harry, our son will grow up lucky to have a Father and a Grandfather who fought hard so they could be there. He’ll be proud and greatful that he’ll grow up safe and loved.”

Harry smiled and kissed Daphne his hand rubbing her belly, “I’m so greatful to have you, and our son.”

Daphne smiled as Harry kissed her tenderly, greatful to have someone so supportive by her side. “I’m greatful that i have you as a Husband, for your all faults, your perfect.”

Harry grinned at her, his round cheeks bulging.

They were interrupted by the loud cry of James.

“Looks like someone is Hungry” Harry grinned.

“Just like his Dad” Daphne said adjusting so she could breastfeed her infant as Harry waddled over and lifted James from his cot.

Chapter 10

Astoria (Baby)

Astoria Malfoy moaned deeply as her now husband Draco Malfoy, buried his face into her plump fat crotch. His tongue making her wet in ways she’d never imagined.

“Uhhhh” She moaned practically melting into the mattress. “Fuck me” She begged the need aching from her words.

“Soooon” Draco purred his plump fingers digging into the soft flesh of Astoria’s fat pillowy belly.

Astoria shuddered, her moan deepening as Draco used his tongue. For a first timer he had clearly been studying every technique for years. “Uhhhhh” Astoria moaned needily, her feet curling as her pelvis bucked against Draco.

“You like that don’t you” Draco grinned as he continued going down on her.

“Uh huh” Astoria moaned biting her bottom lip.

“How badly do you need my big cock” Draco grinned, she couldn’t see it. But she knew he was smiling, that masculine pride.

“Fill me” Astoria moaned, it was a simple desperate request.

“Are you wet enough?” Draco enquired, his tongue sliding across her clit.

“uhhhhh uhhh huh” Astoria vibrated.

Draco finally lifted his head over the arc of Astoria’s fat bulging belly. The soft rolls of fat cascading. “My queen.”

“Not a queen, although I like the compliment” She teased as Draco shuffled forward his fat heavy gut resting on Astoria’s belly.

“I Prefer when you were desperately moaning” Draco teased as he pressed his palms into Astoria’s belly, squeezing and kneeding the flesh. His Erect cock prodding her fat pad.

“Uhhhh… Urrrrrppp” Astoria belched.

“My pig” Draco smiled.

“Fuck me, please” Astoria begged.

Draco smiled and slowly pressed his cock inside her. They’d fucked like this almost daily since they were married. Once even on the hotel dining table, as Draco fed her donuts his cock buried deep inside her.

“Ohh…” Draco groaned gutturally, his grip tightening on her fat plump hips. Their bellies rubbing and bulging against one another. His cock thrusting in and out, finding the rhythm to keep her full.

There was only one goal in mind. A baby.

In truth she was probably pregnant already. She wasn’t going to mention to Draco how she timed the wedding for the peak of her fertile period. Frankly she was just enjoying the Vigor draco had. He was man possessed, to repeatedly and firmly make love to his fat bulging wife.

And when he wasn’t doing that, he was stuffing her belly until there was absolutely no chance she’d ever fit in her wedding dress again. It was wonderful, but Astoria knew it was that newly wed glow. She knew Draco would settle down once she fell pregnant, and then a baby would arrive and it would be the centre of their world.

“You close?” Draco sweated, his face glistening an intensity in his thrusts.

“Uh huh” Astoria nodded.

“Good. Good I’m gonna” Draco groaned as he grunted hard thrusting hard, as he came hard.

Astoria moaned and let her own wave of an orgasm roll over her.

Draco sagged, his hands pressing against the bed, “Never going to get sick of this.”

“Uh huh” Astoria smirked.

“I love you” Draco smiled.

❧

Astoria watched as Draco sweated in the heat as he looked at the half-assembled coffee table. He was struggling and she was having a difficult time supressing her amusement.

“You could help” Draco said through gritted teeth.

The house had been built while they’d taken their honeymoon. It wasn’t big, but it was sturdy with wide doorways, other than a very narrow pantry that had been built using the existing stonework of the property. Of course, this then meant they had to paint everything and build furniture.

Draco had wanted to use wizard made furniture, but the moment he walked in. It was immediately clear they didn’t want to do business with a former death eater. Harry had offered to talk to them, but draco was fine with looking at other options. It did however mean he had to build them by hand.

“I know my husband well enough, that it won’t well” Astoria said rubbing her belly absent mindedly.

The test had confirmed she was pregnant a week ago. She just hadn’t got around to telling him.

“Why do you keep rubbing your belly?” Draco enquired as he continued to grunt as he screwed a table leg in.

“I’m very full” Astoria replied without missing a beat.

“You haven’t eaten in an hour” Draco pointed out wryly.

“Fine, I’m Pregnant” Astoria said casually.

Draco’s attention snapped up, “What?”

“You heard” Astoria shrugged.

“Really Pregnant?” Draco enquired.

“Yeah” Astoria smiled.

“Oh Merlin” Draco reached under his fat heavy gut and rubbed his crotch. “You really are.”

Astoria paused, and squinted at Draco, “Are you getting hard?”

“Yes. You’re pregnant, how else should I react” Draco asked his hand still under his belly.

“Your insatiable” Astoria realised.

“I need you to be big fat and pregnant. Always” Draco murmured. “I told you this?”

“I know. I just didn’t think you’d have this much of a sex drive” Astoria murmured.

“Bed. Now, I’m going to stuff you and then celebrate by making love to you again” Draco beamed.

“What about the coffee table?”

“It can wait. I cannot” Draco grunted as he heaved himself up.

❧

It was funny how quick the pregnancy seemed to go. Even the first trimester which everyone and she genuinely meant everyone seemed to have an opinion on. Especially as they all had their own remedies to reduce morning sickness.

Every month her belly got steadily bigger, partially her gluttony but most of it was her baby. Her and Draco’s baby, a baby boy who would be loved and spoiled. She still remembered the conflicted tearfilled look on Draco’s face when he found out.

“We’re having a boy.”

“A healthy baby boy” The Healer confirmed.

Astoria looked at his plump face, tears gently leaking down his cheeks. “Are you okay?”

“I thought we’d have a girl” Draco murmured.

“Are you okay with having a boy?” Astoria enquired. She knew Draco well enough to see that pensive look in his eyes.

“I don’t know if I’d be a good enough parent of a boy?” Draco answered honestly.

“You’ll be perfect” Astoria reassured, because she was fearful too.

She could feel the many changes in her body, her breasts got bigger. Much to Draco’s delight as he buried his face in her swollen chest. During their regular love making, she still seemed surprised at how often he could manage.

The way her belly began to steadily swell bigger, her organs moving in order to make room for her baby. Each month she got bigger, her belly got heavier and protruded a bit further. There was the downside the swollen ankles, the exhaustion the mood swings.

Daphne fell pregnant again, she quietly admitted during one Sunday dinner. “I’m Pregnant” she said to Astoria.”

“You couldn’t let me have this” Astoria teased wryly.

“James needs a sibling” Daphne said warmly. “And then your child will have a cousin the same age.”

“uh huh” Astoria teased shaking her head.

It wasn’t that bad, she had already been asking Daphne about her own pregnancy. As often her mother’s suggestions usually ended up being twisted in a sledge about your weight.

She was glad that Draco was very outspoken about how he was fond of her weight. She’d become very used to her mother, so having someone who came out to bat every time. Seemed to actually turn the tide.

Draco had been quite annoyed on the other hand when Hermione had announced she too was pregnant.

“That’s the last thing our baby needs. Someone to compete with academically.”

“Is that really your reaction” Astoria commented one evening in bed.

“Yes. He’ll hardly need to compete with his cousins” Draco pointed out.

“It’s bound to happen, what happen when Pansy has a child.”

“Depends on which husband it’s with” Draco said dryly.

Astoria grinned and rubbed her belly, “Won’t be long now.”

“No it won’t” Draco smiled as he put his arm around her and kissed her cheek. “You look more beautiful with every day.”

“You are very sweet” Astoria said wryly. “Wrong but sweet.”

“Hardly. I can’t wait to meet our son” Draco said leaning down and kissing her belly.

“You won’t be saying that after I’ve given birth” Astoria said rubbing her belly.

“Yes I will” Draco said continuing to kiss her belly. “And then I will proudly and enthusiastically give him a sibling.”

Astoria giggled, “You are very determined to have that big family.”

“More than anything, especially with you” Draco smiled.

“Then tomorrow you can finish the nursery.”

Draco groaned, “I’ll call Harry to help.”

❧

On November the 16th, at 9:00am.

Astoria finally gave birth, after hours of labor pains. She gave birth to a very healthy sized baby boy in the Maternity Ward at St Mungo’s.

Draco wanted to adhere to family tradition, even if his parents barely talked. It connected him to his legacy, and I understood Draco’s complicated feelings.

Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy.

And. Much to Astoria’s relief and something she’ll hold over Daphne for as long as possible, she didn’t tear.

She was relieved and wasn’t as tired as she thought she would be. Although she was desperately hungry.

Draco however was wrecked and collapsed into a sitting chair and fell deeply asleep. The healers fussed over her.

(Check what happens after give birth in hospital)

When she was finally allowed visitors the following day, Her parents came with, Daphne, Harry and their son James in tow. All with gifts of flowers, and teddy bears, and Harry carrying a platter of food.

“Hello” Mum said cheery.

“Good” Astoria said wryly. “What is that?” Astoria looked at Harry confused, before he tilted the tray.

“Sushi” Harry smiled. “I’m told you can’t eat it while you’re pregnant.”

Astoria eyes gleamed in delight, “Brilliant. Thank you.”

“Where’s Draco?” Daphne frowned.

“Leaning how to wash our son” Astoria smiled. “They won’t be long.”

“Oh good. I can’t wait to meet my grandson” Mum beamed, Daphne coughed. “My other grandson.”

“Swing and a miss Mum” Astoria said shaking her head.

“So what name did you settle on?” Harry enquired.

“Baby” James Potter pouted confused.

“Scorpius Hyperion Malfoy” Astoria said warmly.

“Really?” Daphne squinted. “Scorpius?”

“It’s a nice name, Draco wanted it” Astoria defended.

“I’m sure we’ll get used to it” Dad nodded firmly.

“I suppose he could be stuck with Draco Jr” Harry grinned.

“What hoping I’d name my son after you?” Draco laughed, as he pushed in the bassinette. “One freshly washed baby.”

“Didn’t drown him?” Astoria asked wryly.

“Astoria” Mum gasped horrified.

“No I didn’t drown him” Draco smiled.

“Let’s see the little tucker” Dad said warmly.

Astoria watched as her family began to fuss over Scorpius who lay wrapt up like a burrito.

“He’s a big boy” Mum commented the slight frown in her tone. “You poor girls.”

Draco and Astoria shared a wry smile, “Actually I didn’t tear” She pointed out.

Daphne looked up and glared at her sister, “You didn’t Tear?”

“Nope. Maybe I’m just better at it” Astoria beamed.

“Oh are you now” Daphne scoffed.

“Alright don’t wind her up” Draco said wryly as he kissed.

“Perhaps you’ll tear next time” Daphne said hopefully.

Astoria rolled her eyes.

Chapter 11

Harry

“Daphne!” Harry bellowed from his bed, his body immobilised by the heavy rotund gut that dominated his midsection. A pile of pillows were placed behind him, allowing him to sit up slightly. In reach of his fat padded hands were a bottle of water, with a refilling charm. And an alarm button. To summon Daphne, or other help if she wasn’t in earshot.

A fat teenage boy with dark hair and a spherical gut that looked like him at that age. Albeit considerably fatter, waddled slowly past the open door. “Albus, could you find your Mum, there’s a chocolate bar in it for you”

Albus waddled in, his t-shirt not reaching his belly button, a pair of fat love handles spilling out over his underwear. He lumbered over toward his father, wheezing audibly as he got closer. “Choc…chocolate... bar” Albus puffed his fat hands tinged with the reminders of a recent chocolate binge. Probably during the night.

Harry with a heavy groan of effort reached over to the nightstand and pulled out a large block of chocolate. A double block that for Harry was a mere snack, for a normal sized person it would be a huge meal. “Here..” he said his fat fingers holding it.

Albus grabbed the bar with greedy desire, his grey eyes hungry for it. “I’ll… wheeze get Mum” Albus nodded already beginning to unwrap the bar. The loud chomping as he wobbled away.

Harry smiled proudly delighted. He didn’t have to wait long for Daphne to appear. His long suffering wife waddled in, in the sixteen years of their marriage she’d steadily expanded, becoming very round. Her breasts were fat and heavy, and sagged a little not that Harry would ever complain. Her body had plumped up, her belly fat and soft and big, as eight pregnancies made her large. Her thighs had become swollen and fat and wobbled with every slow step. She wasn’t as huge as Harry, but she had undeniably become a fat mother. “You don’t need to yell the house down. I’m hardly going to neglect you” Daphne said with a sympathetic smile.

“I was getting hungry?” Harry offered trying to sound innocent.

“You’re always hungry” Daphne commented as he drew closer reaching up above the bed and pulling down a pair of handles. “Do you need me to help you sit?”

Harry nodded a little self-consciously.

Daphne smiled and rubbed his belly, and began piling pillows carefully behind Harry, slowly forcing him upright. With some effort Harry managed to swing his legs off the bed. His fat bulging feet landing comfortably on the carpet. “Now grab the handles and heave yourself up” Daphne encouraged.

Harry huffed, annoyed that Daphne said that every time. But at this point it was better to let her lecture him. Harry gripped the handles with his fat palms and heaved himself up, his fat legs wobbling, hands sweating from the minor effort. Daphne by his side assisting him, as much as he could in his current state. “Done…” he huffed.

“We need to move our bedroom downstairs” Daphne said moving the walking frame to Harry’s reach. “I now understand why my Sister and Draco built their house the way they did.”

“puff Yes wheeze Please” Harry nodded his double chin wobbling.

With some difficulty, Harry eventually managed to get downstairs. Assisted by Daphne. “I’m fine” Harry puffed.

“I know. But you struggle, and I married you in sickness and in health” Daphne said warmly kissing his bulging jowls.

“You’ll injure yourself, or worse I might fall on top of you”

“Don’t threaten me with a good time Harry Potter” Daphne smiled and rubbed his belly. “Come on. Into the dining room. Your throne is waiting, do you need the bathroom?” Daphne enquired.

“I’ll manage” Harry reassured.

“Harry” Daphne frowned.

“Fine yes. Bathroom first” Harry muttered defeated.

“Your bottomless belly is useless is your bowels are bloated” Daphne smirked.

Harry rolled his eyes and muttered something under his breath.

Harry groaned in relief as he lowered himself, into his padded chair. The chair heavily reinforced to take his considerable size. Empty plates were set out in reach, waiting to be filled.

Harry licked his lips with greedy delight. “Daphne …”

“Patience is something you seem to have forgotten this morning” Daphne called out from the kitchen.

Harry huffed, his belly gurgled empty and desperate for a meal. Sure enough a few moments later, a large spread that would easily be enough for half a dozen. But was barely enough for Harry. Sat begging to be eaten, Harry pulled one of the large serving plates forward. He began greedily shovelling mouthfuls in with the serving spoon.

“Charming” Daphne said amused, as she tucked a napkin into Harry’s collar and served up his plate, before she pried the serving spoon from Harry’s greedy fingers. “You might resemble a pig but use your manners. The boys pick up all your worst habits.”

“You think there my munch best mhmf habits” Harry grunted greedily chewing.

“Only in private” Daphne chuckled kissing his cheek. “Where I can stuff my big hog” She whispered into his ear.

Harry groaned and rubbed his fat palms against his belly, he looked at the ceiling and sighed defeated. He let Daphne hand him a fork and knife, and resumed eating.

“Thank you” Daphne said kissing him gently.

Harry smiled as he swallowed, “Do you regret, letting me get as fat as this?”

“No” Daphne said patting Harry’s belly, “Everything you’ve done, every loss you’ve felt. Your allowed to get fat and happy” Daphne smiled, “I’m proud that I got to grow a family with you.” Harry smiled at her relieved, “Did you get another letter from Hermione?”

Harry sighed, “She means well.”

“I’ve seen the size of Hugo, she ought not to throw stones” Daphne commented amused.

There was loud thumping on the staircase, Harry didn’t need to guess who it was. Sure enough James Potter lumbered into the dining room. Rubbing his large fattened gut. He was a large sixteen year old boy, tall, taller than Harry had been at the same age by a foot. He had wide shoulders and his arms were big and flabby, and his chest was dominated by a pair of fat moobs that sat on his large bulky belly.

“Fuck I’m starving..” he wheezed.

“Language James” Daphne said firmly. “This is for your father. Once he’s finished I’ll sort you kids out. Could you check on the owl and see if any mail has arrived.”

“Can’t Albus!” James protested.

“I asked you” Daphne said simply.

“Fine” James grunted.

Harry ate quietly, until he was sure James was out of earshot. “Urrrppp….Teenagers.”

“You were not much better” Daphne said rubbing Harry’s belly tenderly.

“At least no one’s trying to kill them” Harry said wryly.

“Yet. There’s still time” Daphne pointed out sarcastically.

“Mum. There’s a letter from school” James said holding out a letter, with the familiar Hogwarts seal on the back.

“Over the Christmas break. What did you do?” Harry asked as he scooped eggs onto his fork and swallowed it whole.

“Nothing” James protested. “I doubt it’s about me.”

Harry groaned as he leaned to one side in an attempt to glance at the letter. “You thought wrong” catching James name in the first paragraph.

“James Sirius Potter!” Daphne said firmly.

James groaned and sunk into a chair. “Whatever it is, I didn’t do it.”

“So you haven’t got concerningly fat?” Daphne said her eyes narrowing at James.

James slowly turned a bright red, “Uhh..” he sunk down his chair, his chins bulging out as he slumped. “Well…”

“James” Harry said firmly, his tone carrying weight. “This is serious. What do you weight?”

“I dunno. I sort of out grew the scale” James shifted the chair creaking underneath him.

“James” Harry said frowning.

“Dad! Your enormous! How far are you?”

“607lbs” Daphne said without missing a beat.

“You know what Dad weighs?” James said frowning.

“Yes. Because It’s a talking scale” Daphne answered wryly, she looked at Harry warmly. “And I put a lot of work into him.”

Harry patted his enormously belly. “Best chef I know.”

Daphne smiled and cupped Harry’s hand. Harry shared a knowing look with her, they’d been married for so long. They had a shorthand. Harry tapped his fork twice on the table and Daphne nodded warmly.

“Jamie. Why don’t we get you on the scale” Harry said firmly. “Daphne could you..”

“Of course” Daphne pulled out her wand, “Gravidos” she created the shape in the air.

Harry groaned in relief as he felt his belly lift slightly. The gravity charm the only way he was able walk without assistance.

“What about your meal?” James frowned.

“It can wait” Harry admitted, he’d already eaten a couple of plates worth. While he wasn’t full, it was enough to keep him going for half an hour.

James kept eyeing him suspiciously, as he followed Harry into the bathroom. The scale sat on the ground just a bit further out from the towel rail.

“Waddle your fat butt up onto the scale,” commanded Harry firmly. It took James two attempts - the second of which left him wheezing - to get to his feet.

”450 pounds! 5’7. 68% body fat. BMI of 60. You are super morbidly obese. You must lose weight urgently” creaked the talking scale beneath him.

“That is a lot of weight” Harry admitted. “James. What happened?” Harry said resting a fat bulging palm on his son’s shoulder. “You’ve always been a big boy. Even in the womb. But this is a bit much isn’t it? You’re sixteen?”

“OWLs last year - I stress ate and then continued stress eating over the NEWT study year,” said James.

“And now your…concerningly fat” Harry nodded. “I can see why the school Owl’d us. You know you’re going to need to diet?” Harry pointed out. He prodded his son’s belly experimentally, his fat finger didn’t sink in as far as he expected.

“Do I have too?” whined James. “Can’t I just keep eating?”

“Unless you have someone who is going to feed you, help you shower and wipe your arse. I would highly recommend it” Harry said prodding his son’s belly roughly. “I got lucky with your Mum. There isn’t a lot of women like her.”

A curious look passed briefly across James face. “Fine…” whined Jamie.

“Atta boy. And I want some grand kids before you become house bound” Harry grinned. “But graduate Hogwarts first.”

“Yes, Dad,” said Jamie, chins wobbling lardily.

“Now let’s go down and have breakfast” he said warmly. “It’s the most important meal of the day.”

Harry patted James back warmly, “I am proud of you. And I’m happy that your weight doesn’t make you unhappy. But sometimes we have to wait before we can truly be happy.”

“So you won’t let me drop out?” James enquired.

“Never” Harry grinned patting him on the shoulder. “Especially if you want to get a desk job.”

Harry was relieved to be seated at the dining room. He tapped his wand on his gut and it sagged willingly.

“So what’s the verdict” Daphne leaned in curiously.

“Definitely a girlfriend. He got odd when I mentioned it. Especially after I brought up he’ll need help wiping his arse” Harry said wryly.

“That’s real love there” Daphne said amused.

“And I’m grateful” Harry said honestly. “I wouldn’t have got this fat if I didn’t have your support.”

Daphne kissed him warmly, “I love you Harry Potter.”

“I love you too Daphne Potter.”

“Mum. Can I have breakfast already” James said in the doorway frowning.

“Yes. Come give me a hand if you’re starving” Daphne said firmly.

Harry chuckled, “Never a moments peace.”

Harry wouldn’t have had it any other way.

He saw a flutter in the hall, almost invisible. Almost if you’d didn’t know what to look for.

“Albus Severus Potter” Harry said firmly.

The shimmer stopped.

“Albus” he repeated.

There was a groan and Albus Head popped up from the invisibility cloak. “You’re still grounded. Remember.”

Albus grumbled and lumbered back upstairs.

Harry grinned, he knew he’d never have gotten away with anything if his parents were still alive.

Chapter 12

Draco