It Wasn't His Fault

"Sev, this is really going to suck. I just hope you know that." I say as we apparate just outside of the Manors great doors.

Sighing, "No it's not Dora. Just give them a chance, really. They're not as bad as you think."

I snort. "You don't know what I think."

Just as Severus was about to respond the door opens and Narcissa Malfoy is standing there in a new sun dress, smiling nervously. "Welcome, welcome, oh I'm so happy you're here."

I just look at her. Happy?

Perhaps sensing my query she adds, "Of course, it would be better if you were merely visiting, but alas, you're here now. We'll do what we can to make you comfortable."

I don't say anything at first. As we walk into the manor Severus nudges my back, "Thank you for letting me to stay here."

Turning to look at me, "Oh it is no problem. We have many rooms not in use, you're welcome to stay as long as you like."

I nod. Like that'll ever happen. "So uh, where is my room. I'm tired and would like to sleep."

"It's this way, upstairs of course. Lucius is there now, putting up some security wards with Kingsley. I'm sure that Severus will want to put some up of his own." She pauses and looks at us. "I really am quite glad that you're here."

I nod. I get it. "Yeah. Who has access to your home?" Her breath hitches, I don't feel bad or embarrassed for asking.

"Severus of course, and Draco. I'm sure that Rodopholus does, and perhaps even Rabastion, but we've heard nothing from Rabastion in such a long time and Rod never stops by without owling first. Other than that, I cannot be sure. Why do you ask?"

I shrug, "Curious."

"Oh." She turns and begins walking up the stairwell, Severus and I following her. "Your room is near ours, as well as Draco's. I hope that isn't an issue for you."

I make a non-committal sound. I don't really care. A bed is a bed. As is a bathroom and closet. And I'd rather be anywhere but here. "It's fine. Thank you." We reach my room to find Kingsley and Lucius talking in fierce whispers. At our appearance they stop and walk over to the doorway to greet us. I found that quite odd. "Severus, I'm fine. I can walk on my own you know." I say a bit harshly but I don't care. I'm tired. My body feels like death.

"Dora I-"

"No really. I'm fine." I say and step forward. Walking into the room I get halfway to the bed and feel myself losing conscious.

"Dora!" "Oh my..."

"Too much excitement for her I fear," Kingsley expresses. "You will watch over her until she awakens?"

A nod. "Yes. Both myself and Cissa shall stay with her. For now, Cissa, why don't you escort our friends out."

Putting up no resistance, the two men left, informing Narcissa Malfoy they'd return tomorrow for a visit. Upon returning to her husband she sat down next to him, watching the young women rest upon the bed.

"They have gone?"

"Yes love, they've gone."

"Good. This night should be just for us." Lucius says and leans back into the chair, reclining and watching his newest child sleep.