Chapter 9: My little love
Theo took to fatherhood as if he were born for it. His transformation was remarkable; from a protective husband to a doting father, every moment of his life seemed to revolve around their little boy. The slightest whimper or gurgle from the baby was enough to have him rushing to his side, his face softening with love and concern. He was there for every midnight feeding, every diaper change, and every quiet moment in the still of the night.
Luna, watching her husband's devotion, often found herself smiling at the sight of him cradling their son. His large hands, so capable and strong, held the tiny infant with such gentleness that it moved her heart. He was the picture of a loving father, his eyes filled with adoration every time he looked at their child.
One evening, after a particularly long day, Luna walked into their bedroom and found a scene that made her heart swell. Theo was lying on the bed, their baby nestled against his chest. Both were fast asleep, the rise and fall of their chests in perfect harmony. The soft glow of the moonlight through the window illuminated them, casting a gentle light over the serene tableau.
She stood in the doorway, her heart filled with love for the two most important people in her life. She could see the deep bond forming between father and son, a connection that brought tears to her eyes. Quietly, she walked over to the bed and gently tucked a blanket around them, her fingers brushing softly against Theo's arm.
As she sat on the edge of the bed, watching them sleep, she felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude. She knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, they would face them together as a family. The love that he had for their son was a beautiful thing to witness, and it made her fall in love with him all over again.
The nights were long, and the days were sometimes challenging, but with him by her side, she knew that they would be okay. He was her rock, her support, and now, the most amazing father she could have ever hoped for their son. Their life together was a journey, filled with love, laughter, and the promise of a beautiful future.
As she lay down beside them, she gently placed her hand on Theo's, their fingers intertwining as they watched over their son together. The warmth of their love wrapped around them like a cocoon, protecting their little family from the world outside. And in that quiet moment, Luna knew that she had everything she had ever dreamed of and more.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Luna sat by the window, the gentle patter of rain against the glass mirroring the tears that streamed down her cheeks. The once vibrant sparkle in her eyes had dimmed, replaced by a deep, aching sadness. The arrival of their son had brought immense joy, but it had also awakened a profound longing for the mother she had lost so many years ago.
Every coo and giggle from her baby reminded her of the love and guidance she wished her mother could share with her. She found herself yearning for the comforting words and warm embraces that only a mother could provide. The weight of her grief pressed down on her, making each day feel like a struggle.
He noticed the change in her immediately. He could see the pain etched on her face, the tears that she tried to hide. He watched as she moved through the house like a ghost, her laughter replaced by silence. It broke his heart to see the woman he loved so much, the mother of his child, in such despair.
Determined to help her, he reached out to Pansy and Neville, hoping that the company of friends might ease Luna's pain. He organized small gatherings, moments of distraction to remind her of the love and support that surrounded her. But even with friends by her side, her grief remained, a constant shadow that loomed over her.
Theo noticed her sorrow, his heart aching to see her in pain. He stepped closer, gently wrapping his arms around her, pulling her into a comforting embrace. "Tell me, my love, what's troubling you? I want to help ease your worries," he whispered, his voice filled with tenderness.
She looked up, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I just miss my mother," she said softly, her voice breaking as tears began to fall. "I just miss her so much," she whispered, her voice cracking with emotion. "I wish she were here to see our son, to tell me that I'm doing okay."
Theo pulled her close, his arms wrapping around her in a protective embrace. "You're an incredible mother, my love," he murmured, his voice filled with love. "And I know she would be so proud of you."
She leaned into him, her tears soaking his shirt. "It's just so hard without her," she sobbed. "I feel so lost."
He held her tighter, wishing he could take away her pain. "I'm here for you," he promised. "We'll get through this together, I promise."
He gently asked, "Are you able to tell me what happened to your mother?"
She took a deep breath, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears as she gathered her thoughts. "She was experimenting with spells, always so curious and fearless," she began, her voice a mixture of pride and sorrow. "One day, something went wrong. It was a spell she hadn't fully tested, and it backfired. She was gone before anyone could do anything."
As she spoke, he held her close, feeling her pain and her strength. He admired her resilience and the way she still carried her mother's spirit within her.
"My Sun? Where is your mother?" she asked softly.
He hesitated for a moment, the weight of Luna's question settling in the room. He took a deep breath, his voice low and steady as he replied, "She turned into an angel. My father… he killed her." The starkness of his words conveyed the depth of his loss and the painful reality he had endured.
She reached out and gently touched his hand, her eyes full of empathy and sorrow. "I'm so sorry, sunny," she whispered, her voice soft.
Slowly, over time, Luna began to heal. With Theo's unwavering support and the love of their friends, she found moments of peace amidst the sorrow. She started to talk about her mother, sharing stories with her son about the grandmother he would never meet. Each memory became a tribute, a way to keep her mother's spirit alive in their lives.
As the days turned into weeks, her laughter began to return, a soft, hopeful sound that brought joy to their home. She still missed her mother deeply, but she was learning to live with the loss, to find strength in the love that surrounded her.
Together, they faced the challenges of parenthood, their bond stronger than ever. And as they watched their son grow, they knew that the love of a mother, even one who was gone, could never truly fade away.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Today was a big day; Theo and Luna were hosting a baby shower for their baby boy, so all their friends could officially meet him.
Forest-coloured banners, adorned with glittering silver creatures that resembled Nifflers, hung from the rafters. Balloons, in shades of emerald and gold, bobbed playfully in the gentle breeze that drifted through the open windows.
The house was filled with decorations and the aroma of her favorite flowers, a blend of soft forest and a hint of magic that only she could conjure. Every detail spoke of the love and care poured into the celebration.
As the guests began to arrive, the house filled with laughter and the gentle hum of conversation. Luna, holding Lysander, greeted each friend with a warm smile, introducing her son to the people who had become her family. Theo, ever the doting father, hovered close by, proudly showing off his son's tiny fingers and bright eyes to anyone who asked.
Pansy arrived with Neville in tow, carrying their own happy child. Lady Lemongrass, wearing a bow that matched Pansy's stylish outfit, trotted in eagerly, sniffing around the unfamiliar surroundings. Neville followed, his hands occupied with a beautifully wrapped gift, while Pansy held a basket of homemade treats, courtesy of Neville's baking skills.
As they stepped inside, she greeted them with a warm smile, Lysander nestled comfortably in her arms. "Pansy, Neville, so good to see you again. Come in, come in."
Pansy beamed, letting the pug roam free to explore the room. "Luna, you look radiant. How's my little godson doing today?"
Neville placed the gift on a nearby table and approached Luna, a gentle smile on his face. "He looks so peaceful. I think he's used to all the attention by now."
Theo joined them, a playful smirk on his face as the pug sniffed at his shoes. "I see you brought the annoying one, Pansy. It's good to have everyone here."
Pansy shrugged, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Well, we couldn't leave him at home. Besides, she's here to help Lysander get used to having a pet around."
Fucking perfect, now they need to buy a new ugly creature. Wonderful.
As the friends settled into the living room, the pug curled up contentedly at her feet, and the atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter. The baby shower was a celebration of friendship and family, the perfect opportunity for everyone to share in the joy of welcoming Lysander into the world..
Ginny and Blaise arrived next, the sound of their laughter preceding them as they entered the room. Ginny, carrying a soft blanket for the baby, immediately gravitated toward Luna and Lysander, her eyes lighting up as she took in the sight of the newborn.
"Oh, Luna, he's perfect," Ginny cooed, her voice soft as she gently ran a finger over Lysander's cheek. "He's absolutely precious."
She smiled, the happiness of the moment reflected in her eyes. "Thank you, Ginny. It means so much to have you here."
Meanwhile, Blaise approached Theo with a broad grin, giving him a hearty pat on the back. "Congratulations, mate," he said, his tone filled with genuine happiness. "This is a big step, and I couldn't be happier for you.
He chuckled, appreciating the sentiment. "Thanks, Blaise. It's a bit overwhelming, but I'm glad you're all here to share this with us."
Blaise nodded, his eyes flicking over to Lysander and Ginny. "He's going to grow up surrounded by people who love him. That's all you can hope for, really."
Hermione and Draco arrived last, their footsteps echoing softly on the wooden floor as they entered the warmly lit living room. Laughter and a welcoming glow beckoned them forward, creating an inviting atmosphere. Luna, ethereal in a flowing white dress that shimmered in the afternoon sunlight, stood waiting by the door. Her ever-present smile widened as she spotted them, her blonde hair cascading down in a halo of gentle curls. "Mimi!" Draco!" she exclaimed, her voice a melody of pure joy. "So glad you could make it!"
Draco, his usual stoicism melting away at her infectious enthusiasm, offered a polite nod. "Thank you, Luna," he said, his voice a low rumble. "We wouldn't miss it for the world. Congratulations again." He turned to Theo, a hint of a smile playing on his lips, and extended a hand in greeting. "Theo."
His grin widened, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Draco! About time you showed up. We were starting to think you two got lost in the maze." He grasped Draco's handshake firmly, the warmth of their camaraderie evident despite the years that had passed. "Thanks, mate. We're truly happy you could both make it. Come on in, the party's waiting!"
Luna, ever the gracious hostess, led them towards a cozy corner where a small group had gathered. Seated on a plush armchair was Neville, his face lit with radiant joy as he cradled a sleeping baby in his arms.
Nestled in a miniature, hand-stitched crib, the tiny form of Lysander seemed peacefully oblivious to the excitement surrounding him. As they approached, Neville looked up, his smile widening as he recognized them.
"Hermione, Draco! So glad you could make it," he exclaimed, his voice brimming with excitement. His gaze then shifted to the bundle in his arms. "This little one here seems to be saving all his energy for the real celebrations."
Even in slumber, a faint resemblance to both Luna and Theo was evident. He possessed her delicate features and the wispy blonde hair, but the smattering of freckles dusting his nose was a clear nod to his heritage. A chorus of soft coos and hushed whispers filled the air as the group fawned over the sleeping child.
"Isn't he just perfect?" Pansy said warmly, nodding towards the sleeping baby.
"He really is," Hermione agreed softly, her heart melting at the sight of the tiny baby. "Congratulations, Luna and to you too, Theo."
"Thank you," she replied, her smile radiant. "He's brought so much light into our lives."
The room hummed with warmth and affection, the gathering of friends encapsulating the joy of new beginnings and the steadfast bonds of their relationships.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
They had an amazing lunch together as friends, gathering around a beautifully set table on the veranda, overlooking the lush garden. The late autumn sun cast a gentle glow over the gathering, creating a serene and intimate setting.
The table was adorned with an array of colorful dishes, showcasing a mix of Luna's unique, whimsical tastes and Theo's more traditional fare. There were fresh salads with edible flowers, a hearty stew, delicate pastries, and an assortment of cheeses and fruits. Each dish was a testament to the couple's love for their friends and their joy in sharing this special occasion.
As they settled in, the conversation flowed effortlessly. Hermione and Pansy chatted about their latest projects, Pansy's eyes lighting up as she animatedly described her latest art endeavor. Neville and Draco exchanged stories about their recent botanical discoveries, with Draco surprising everyone with his newfound interest in rare magical plants.
Ginny and Blaise entertained the group with tales of their latest escapades, their laughter infectious and their camaraderie evident. Theo, ever the attentive host, made sure everyone had their fill, his eyes often drifting towards Luna and Lysander, his heart full of contentment.
Luna, her face aglow with happiness, listened intently to her friends, occasionally offering her own quirky insights that left everyone in stitches. The gentle breeze carried the sound of their laughter across the gardens, the afternoon sun dappling the scene with warmth and light.
His worst nightmare came true when he saw Lady Lemongrass, jumping onto the crib to join Lysander for an afternoon nap.
"BEAST, get off immediately!" his voice sliced through the warm atmosphere, sharp with alarm as he strode over, his heart pounding in his chest. But the pug merely gave him a bombastic side-eye, her expression one of pure defiance, before snuggling even closer to the sleeping baby.
His frustration bubbled over as he reached for Lady Lemongrass, but Luna's gentle hand on his arm stopped him. "My love, look," she whispered, a soft smile tugging at her lips. "She's just being protective."
Taking a deep breath, he watched as Lady curled up beside Lysander, her little body radiating warmth and comfort. Though he remained uneasy, he couldn't help but feel a swell of affection at the sight. It seemed that even their stubborn dog had been charmed by their son, her loyalty evident in her sleepy embrace.
Returning to the garden, he vented his frustration to Pansy, who was enjoying the festive atmosphere.
"Parkinson, your creature is disturbing my son. Make her stop snoring," he complained, his annoyance clear as he gestured towards Lady Lemongrass, who was blissfully oblivious.
Pansy raised an eyebrow, her lips curving into a smirk. "What's got your knickers in a twist, darling? Afraid Lady will have a bestie?" she retorted, her sassy attitude shining through, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
He rolled his eyes, unable to suppress a small grin despite himself, as Pansy's witty banter and Lady Lemongrass's antics lightened the mood. "I just want him to have a peaceful nap. Is that too much to ask?" he huffed, the corners of his mouth betraying his irritation.
As the meal came to a close, Luna stood up, her eyes shimmering with gratitude as she surveyed the room filled with friends and loved ones. "Thank you all for being here today. Your friendship means the world to us, and we're so grateful to share this day with you."
Theo nodded in agreement, his arm protectively wrapped around her waist. "You've all been there for us through thick and thin. Today, as we celebrate our new addition, we want you to know that you are our family, and we couldn't have asked for a better one."
The group raised their glasses in a toast, the sound of clinking glass echoing softly as the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden hue over the gathering. It was a moment of pure joy, a memory they would all cherish for years to come. Laughter mingled with the fading light, a fitting end to a day filled with love and celebration.
As the last of the guests trickled out, Hermione lingered, casting one last glance at the joyful chaos of the afternoon. She felt a warmth in her heart, knowing that these moments were what truly mattered. With her friends by her side and love blossoming in her life, the future looked brighter than ever.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Theo asked Draco to speak in private, pulling him away from the lively garden gathering. The sounds of laughter and light chatter faded as they stepped behind a tall row of hedges, the air quieter here, heavy with the scent of roses. Draco leaned against a stone wall, folding his arms as if bracing for he conversation he knew was coming.
"Mate, how is Hermione doing?" he asked, his concern evident, his eyes scanning Draco's face for any sign of how his best friend was really holding up.
Draco sighed, running a hand through his hair, his usually immaculate appearance betraying signs of stress. "She's much better, I think. She's stable, and mentally… she's doing okay." He hesitated, then added, "I make sure to count every pill, measure every milliliter of her medicine and potions." His voice, though calm, held a slight tremor, the weight of his vigilance palpable.
He raised an eyebrow at this, catching the underlying tension. "So you don't trust her?" he probed gently, his tone soft but direct.
Draco's face darkened, his grey eyes hardening momentarily. "No, it's not that," he muttered. Then, after a pause, his expression turned serious, as if admitting the truth to himself as much as to Theo. "Merlin, she almost died. She almost gave away her life." He shook his head, his voice thick with emotion. "How could I ever forgive myself if I didn't do everything I could to prevent that from happening again? I can't risk that. I can't lose her."
He nodded, feeling the weight of Draco's words. He had seen this side of him before—the fierce protector, the man who, despite his cool exterior, loved with an intensity that could burn. He placed a comforting hand on Draco's shoulder, squeezing gently. "I know, mate. I saw it in your eyes—the pain. You're doing everything you can."
For a moment, Draco looked down, his defenses slipping as the worry he carried alone came to the surface. "I love her, Theo. I gave her my heart and soul. I couldn't bear it if I lost her. She's the reason I breathe." His voice, usually so composed, wavered slightly, revealing just how close he had come to losing control.
Theo, ever the joker, tried to lighten the mood. "So, the boss is in love, eh?" he said, wiggling his eyebrows, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.
Draco's eyes narrowed instantly, his usual sharp wit reasserting itself. "Immediately stop it, Theodore," he snapped, but there was no real heat behind his words. A hint of a smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, betraying his amusement.
"Alright, alright," he relented, holding up his hands in mock surrender. But his expression quickly turned serious again. "Maybe I can ask Luna to keep a closer eye on her? You know she's always good with these things."
Draco nodded, his rigid posture softening just a fraction. A rare vulnerability crossed his features, and for a brief moment, the unflappable Draco Malfoy looked like a man utterly exhausted by the weight of his responsibilities. "That would be appreciated," he admitted quietly, grateful but too proud to fully express it.
He hesitated for a beat before curiosity got the better of him. "May I ask what happened? I mean, you said Hermione's okay now, but… why was she in such a bad place?"
Draco's expression turned distant, his eyes clouding over with memories he'd rather not revisit. When he spoke, his voice was unnervingly calm, like he was recounting a simple fact. "She killed my father."
He blinked, caught completely off guard by the casual delivery. His eyebrow shot up in disbelief, but there was a hint of admiration in his tone when he finally spoke. "Bold. I like her," he said, unable to suppress a small grin. "Wand? Weapons?"
Draco smirked slightly, the cool, calculating Malfoy charm resurfacing. "A mix of both," he replied, clearly not interested in going into the gritty details. "But I don't think she'll appreciate it if I tell you all our secrets."
He chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Fair enough. But it sounds like she handled it." He paused, his voice dropping slightly. "Luna knows how hard it can be after something like that… she'll understand better than anyone."
Draco glanced up, a flicker of gratitude passing through his otherwise stoic expression. "She'll love it," he said, a touch of warmth seeping into his voice. "Hermione's always had a soft spot for Luna. And for all her… eccentricities, Luna has a way of making things lighter."
He nodded, his tone resolute now. "I'll make sure she visits often. You're not in this alone, mate."
For a moment, neither of them spoke, the weight of their conversation settling in. The distant hum of the gathering behind them was like white noise, the rest of the world falling away as they stood together, united by their shared struggles and their unwavering loyalty to the women they loved.
Draco cleared his throat, the hint of emotion quickly tucked back behind his usual guarded mask. "Thank you, Theo. I mean it."
He clapped him on the back, grinning. "Anytime, boss. Anytime." And with that, they rejoined the party, but the understanding between them lingered—an unspoken pact between brothers bound not by blood, but by the shared burdens of love, loss, and the endless fight to protect what they held most dear.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
As the festivities wound down, Theo and Luna gathered their friends in the garden, where the setting sun painted the sky with hues of pink and orange. With heartfelt expressions, they thanked each guest for sharing in their joy and making the day memorable. Their appreciation was genuine, reflecting the deep connections and friendships that enriched their lives. As hugs and goodbyes were exchanged, the warmth of their bonds lingered, promising many more moments of happiness to come.
A loud cry suddenly echoed from the nursery, prompting Theo to Apparate there in a heartbeat. He found Pansy and Luna standing by the crib, both laughing. Confused and a bit panicked, he asked, "What is even happening?"
Pansy, gently removing Lady from the crib, replied with a chuckle, "Looks like Lysander and Lady have become best friends."
Luna, holding Lysander close, added, "I told you the dog isn't bothering our son, my Sun. He seems quite taken with her. He's my son, too, and they clearly get along well. You need to relax, Theodore," Luna chided, her tone light yet firm.
"Good job, Lovegood," Pansy teased. "Keep your husband at heel."
"I'm not a dog, Parkinson," he retorted, but his words were drowned out by Pansy's mischievous laughter as she left the room.
"Theodore," Luna began gently.
"Are you upset with me?" he interrupted, his voice wavering and eyes glistening.
"I'm not, my love. But why can't Lysander be friends with Lady?" she asked softly.
"I just don't like her," Theo mumbled.
"Theo, you do. I've seen you nap with her," she replied, a teasing smile playing on her lips.
"That was an accident," he insisted, trying to sound firm.
Luna's smile grew. "It wasn't, and you know it. She's part of the family now," she said, pulling Theo into a warm embrace.
"I apologize. It was rude of me," he said sincerely.
"It was, my Sun," Luna replied gently, "but you need to work on your possessiveness. We're all in this together, and there's plenty of love to go around."
"But I only want your love," he said, pouting.
"You have my soul and body and my mind, Theodore," Luna reassured him, her voice soft yet firm. "You have all the love in my very being."
In the tapestry of our lives, love weaves a pattern that holds us together through every challenge and joy, reminding us that our bond is unbreakable and ever-growing.