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The Loving House of Culloden Not too far from Diagon Alley sits a two story house where Cosgrach, Victoria, and her three children live. It's in the perfect spot to be close enough to get to the ministry and hangout with friends, but far enough to enjoy their private time at home. In this house the Culloden's will really find out what it's like to be a blended family. Characters Cosgrach Culloden-Starshine Victoria Culloden, Bart Maroon, Alana Potter -Bazinga Elisa Potter-Charely Potter Scene One: It's mid January and things are starting to get back to normal.. almost. Victoria is back at the ministry after a very nice winter break and honeymoon/first year anniversary trip with Cosgrach. Cosgrach and Bart are back at Hogwarts enjoying term. The twins are back to primary school. The only thing that isn't normal is how Victoria has been feeling and the surprise she has for Cosgrach. |
Come immediately. Or were those not the words? Cosgrach wasn't sure. All he knew was that his love of life needed him - FAST. He had been having dinner in the Great Hall when the owl came, and he didn't remember the rest. Next time he was fully conscious of what he was doing, he'd found himself in front of his fireplace as the panic inside him rose and he couldn't get the thought 'Something bad happened to girls.' out of his mind. He yelled the name of his house, and a moment later, was inside his living room. Words were too much. WHAT was wrong? |
Victoria was in the bathroom off of the bedroom, so hearing anyone coming into the house was not happening. She hadn't been feeling good at all that day. Making it through work was hard and waiting for Cossy was even harder. She had went to the healer in the mornings, Merlin she had to stop going to the healer in the mornings before work. Remembering being told she was having twins then going to work, this was just like that. She was repeating her life. Finished up she left the loo and headed back to lay down on the bed. Thankfully the girls were at Charely's so she didn't have to explain why she needed them to go over there on a night that was for her. Mind still in all directions, she tried to calm the state of shock she had spent all day in. She had stopped this from happening again, but yet here she was. As happy as she knew she should be, she was terrified with the information at hand. She remembered life after she had the twins. She wasn't her, it wasn't easy, and she wasn't sure anyone could handle that again. |
Someone had kidnapped her. Cosgrach tried to swallow his fear, but there was no other explanation. He brought out his wand and decided that if there was someone in the house with her and the girls, his best option was a surprise attack. So he removed his shoes and started to look at everywhere as silently as he could... ...he checkhed the bedroom last, and with every step his fear just grew - they'd hurt his family for some stupid reason. His heart was beating in his mouth when he opened the bedroom door. This much of adrenaline wasn't good. He was pretty sure it was unhealthy. He opened the door and held his wand in front of himself, ready to shoot... There was no one in the room, but his wife lying on the bed. "Victoria!?" his voice croaked, and he ran to her without putting his wand away. "What's wrong?" |
Victoria laid in bed feel that nausea and dizziness that had been only a few moments ago pass. She was not looking forward to feeling ill again but this time could be different. Her mind raced with thoughts about this time and how there wasn't suppose to be a this time. Her thoughts consuming her she did not hear any noise in the house and soon her eyes were closed and she was drifting off to sleep. Just as she dozed off she heard the bedroom door which jolted her awake. Lifting her head and letting her eyes focus she saw her husband, but she couldn't speak not just that second. The jolt up from sleep caused the wave of sick feeling to come back and she was up out of bed and putting up a finger to have him wait, as she hurried to the bathroom. Giving a few moments she splashed herself with water and entered the bedroom sitting down on the bed. "Sorry about that, I haven't had a chance to take the potion the healer gave me yet." Her mind was preoccupied by many things. So many things she didn't realize her owl probably sounded worse then what was really going on. "I hope I didn't interrupt anything important at school." Now she was regretting the owl, this probably could have waited. |
Poison. She was poisoned. Cosgrach's mind was overworking while she used the bathroom. He put his wand away, and tried to understand WHY. WHY would someone try to poison the world's loveliest woman? He waved his hand impatiently. She was his wife and he'd be there if she needed him. "Nothing is more important," he said, and sat down next to her. "What's wrong?" WHO DID IT? was also good. |
The moment had passed again and she turned to face him a little more. Smiling at his words, "I could think of many things more important." She was never one to really put herself as important when she had children and a job to tend to. "But I'm glad you are here." Leaning in she put her hand to his cheek and kissed his lips. She felt so tired again, but decided that laying down wasn't an option at the moment. Though she did get up again and grab her purse pulling out the potion. "This will help." Taking it she set the empty vial down and came back to sit on the bed. Honestly she didn't even know where to start, what to say. So she figured maybe just putting it off would be best for now. "Cossy nothing's wrong, wrong. Just something that we need to speak about." Honestly she was fine to an extent and the girls were fine, "I'm sorry I've upset you. I shouldn't have sent the owl. I just haven't been feeling well for a few weeks. I know I said something about it to you last time you were home, but played it off as nothing. Truth be told I've been a bit worried so I went to the healer today." She stopped and bit her lips trying to form the words. |
If Cosgrach hadn't been anxious to learn WHO did this, he would have convinced her that family came before anything else. But for now, he absent-mindedly kissed her back. She was trying to calm him down, he knew. He eyed the vial she drank from suspiciously. He didn't usually trust potions that were prepared by someone else, but because she said it was from a healer, he kept silent. And finally, she was explaining. Nothing was wrong? That was hard to believe. He listened to her with a worried frown. "Of course you'll send me an owl," he said, "especially if you're as ill as to see a healer." He paused. This wasn't poison, she was SICK. "What's it?" He could only whisper. |
Her potion had started working quickly, thank Merlin, she couldn't handle the coming and going of dizziness and feeling as if she was going to give up her lunch every few moments. Standing up she went to the dresses and took a sip of water from her cup. She fully realized now that she scared him with her owl and should not have sent one maybe as needy. "Yes, but I guess I was a bit panicked when I sent it. It wasn't as serious as it seems my owl made it out to be. I'm sorry for that." She did feel bad that he was so worried. See that's what she didn't mean to do. "No, I'm not ill. I promise, I mean I am, but not for the reasons you think. You know I've been feeling a bit weaker lately and we thought it was just lack of sleep catching up to me from all the election stuff and then holiday." Though holiday was not stressful, but very relaxing fun. Moving back to the bed she sat down and took his hand. Rubbing his hand with her thumb she looked up at him. Not sure how to say it, because what if he was upset? What if he wouldn't be happy. Once the shock moved away she knew she'd be. "Cossy love, I.. I.. I'm pregnant." |
Cosgrach didn't even argue this time. He could accept one apology, surely? Yeah. Instead, he focused on what she said next. He nodded at her a little - yes, they did think that, but it wasn't? But she also wasn't ill? He frowned, trying to make sense... but then she sat down by him and took his hand. He hated the suspense. He hated seeing her all nervous like that. He - ... ...... "What?" he snorted as tears of joy blurred his vision. He blinked them away. He was grinning from ear to ear. Suddenly, he couldn't sit still. He got up and took a few steps, then turned back at her as he wiped his tears away. "We're gonna have a kid?" He choked on the last word, but it was all from happiness. HE WAS GOING TO BE A FATHER. DAD. D-A-D-D-Y! He, Cosgrach Culloden! He was the happiest - This was a dream, wasn't it? It was, had to be, because at that moment he remembered that she couldn't have more kids. His smile faded, then. This had secretly been his biggest dream, but now that... he was SURE something bad would happen. "If this is a dream, I must wake up now." Because he didn't want to believe it too much. What if the healer got the symptoms wrong? Could that even happen? He bet it would. |
She heard his quiet what, "I'm pregnant" She repeated seeing his reaction, but not sure she could fully read it yet. What was he thinking? She watched him with anxiety as he got up and moved from her. He didn't want this, did he? He was upset clearly. They had too many kids living in this house as it was and none of them his own. He was a wonderful man for dealing with it and now this. Though his words made her change her thoughts, he was questioning and looked so emotional. She nodded to answer, still not sure if he was wanting this to be real. They were going to have a child another baby in the house. As much as it freaked her out knowing how her last pregnancy went she couldn't help but feel joy as well. More shock at the moment, but joy. Patting the bed net to her she saw the smile fade, Oh no! Here it came he was going to be upset. "Please sit down." She wanted his hand, him next to her. She just wanted to be close. "It's not a dream, it's real. The healer said that it's rare that it happens, but it does happen." She was just one of the rare cases. "Are you okay with this? I know you came into the relationship knowing I wasn't having anymore and knowing that I made it so I well shouldn't have been able to, but you did want one of your own, so you are happy, aren't you?" That's all she hoped for at that moment was him being happy. |
Cosgrach down next to her again, and held her hand. It's real . . . it DOES happen . . . Was she asking if he was okay with it? "Shh," he shushed her as he put a finger on her mouth lightly, "You made me the happiest, Victoria. We're going to have a baby!" He was smiling from mouth to mouth again, and bit his lip as another wave of tears hit him. He squeezed her hand, controlled the tears (which were OBVIOUSLY tears of joy) and held her gaze. "You tell me if you're okay with it. You've already had 3 kids... do you want a fourth?" |
She stopped as he shushed her and just listened a small smile crossing her lips. He was happy, he was happy to be having a baby. This was good news and she sighed with relief. "I was worried, we've known it wouldn't be, that maybe you changed your mind and wouldn't want the family change." Life change really. She just sat and smiled moving her hand to wipe a tear that had escaped from the relief of not worrying about it anymore. She leaned against him feeling very tired. She thought over his question a moment before looking into his eyes and smiling softly, "I can't say it was something that I planned, after last time I was finished, but it's a blessing and I am happy. You wanted a baby and I wanted nothing more then to give you one, but didn't think I could. So this is wonderful. " She leaned in and kissed him. "I love you." She decided she wanted to lay down again so she moved her head towards the pillow, "I'm sorry, it's just I've been so tired lately. Which of course is fully normal right now. The potion helps the dizzy and ill feeling, but not that sleepy." Resting and getting comfortable she looked up at him. "We could cuddle a bit if you have time." He didn't have to hurry back to school did he? |
He was completely okay with such a family change. He wiped his tears away too, and just laughed briefly in JOY when she said this was wonderful. It indeed was, wasn't it? A miracle. A blessing. A baby. He kissed back and said "I love you too," then lay next to her. He nodded. He couldn't even imagine how it was to carry a baby inside. He had never even held a baby in his arms before. He was too happy to worry about what kind of a father he would be, however. Instead, he moved to cuddle her and kiss the top of her head. "I have all the time," he said happily. He did, because 'emergency' required time, and he wasn't dying to return, not after this news. "Do you think Mariel would give you lots of vacation to rest?" She'd need to rest now, wouldn't she? |
She smiled as he laid down next to her and put his arms around to cuddle. Moving her head she leaned against his chest. It was nice to just be in his arms cuddling. She needed this comfort, she needed him and was thankful that he came. She still felt bad for the way she got him to come home, but at the time she was a bit panicked. A 37 almost 38 year old with three kids pregnant. Her oldest going to be sixteen, it was a bit much at first to think about. "Well I know you don't have all the time, but I'll keep as much as I can." She smiled lightly looking up at him. "I don't think I can keep you here for good. Annie might not like that and losing your job is out of the question right now." Another mouth to feed was going to make them need to look at their finances again. Looking at him for a few moments she thought over his words. "I have plenty of vacation time at the ministry. In the seven years I've been there I haven't taken any time off really. Just a few sick days here and there and my last maternity leave was three and a half years ago. So I have maternity leave as well as vacation time I can take." She wasn't worried about any of that. |
He loved her being so responsible too, and he smiled back. "I'll keep a track of the time, I promise," he said reassuringly, "I'll spend the night here, then I'll return." How did it sound? Return and announce to to the world, by the way. Would she mind? He didn't think so. This was worth the world's attention. For once, he was grateful for the overtime she worked. "Okay," he said in a tone that said he was grateful, then he paused, then it hit him again. He didn't know how to look after a kid, let alone a baby. He also didn't want her to think he'd be a terrible father, however. He probably would, but no need for her to worry about that. Instead, he asked "Do you need anything now? Or should I do anything?" Smoothly, until he freaked out with someone else, because he didn't want her to know he had never even touched a baby before. |
He was going to spend the night, she was so happy to hear this. "I love the sound of that." She could stay in his arms all night, which made her happy, but the way she was feeling, she was happy he was going to be there once the girls got home as well. "The girls are going to be home in about an hour or so, think you could help me with bedtime. I'm just so exhausted right now. I promise the exhaustion will go away, well at least a little bit in the second trimester." She gave a small smile as her hand absentmindedly went to her nonexistence stomach. Snuggling closer she sighed contently, happy to have him there, happy for him to know now, and happy that the potion had taken away her dizziness and sick feeling. The thought of the healer made her think about her appointment. "Do you want to hear about the appointment today?" She figured he would, "So I went, because I knew something wasn't right. She said I was about five weeks along, so not long enough to see the baby yet with the ultrasound spell. I have another appointment in four weeks, we should be able to see the baby and hear it's heart beat. I hope you can make it." She knew he had to work, but it would be nice for him to be there if possible. Her thoughts moved to all the things going on, all the changes this would bring and she lifted her head to look into his eyes. "With my age and the complications I had with the girls I'll be consider a higher risk pregnancy. Do you think just to be safe, we could keep this to us until the second trimester?" She knew it could be exciting, but waiting until she was at least twelve weeks before telling anyone would make her feel more comfortable with things. |
The girls would come home soon? Cosgrach smiled to himself. He loved the time he got to spend with them, and now that their mummy was pregnant, he would be even more attentive. "Of course, love," he said as he kissed the side of her forehead, "I'll help you with anything, so long as you feel better." Not that he hadn't been helping before, he said it more to comfort her. He placed his hand on hers on her stomach and smiled to himself. A baby! It felt unreal. Who would have thought he would be so happy at the thought? Not himself 4 years ago. He had grown up, and although he still knew nothing about childcare, he was only excited to learn about it instead of completely freaking out. "Of course," he said, and listened intently. Five weeks? See the baby in four weeks!? HEAR IT???!!! FOUR WEEKS WERE TOO MUCH! He took a deep breath. "Of course I will," he said in determination, and tried to imagine how the baby would look like, but no image came to his mind. Then, he tried to imagine who it would resemble more - its mother or father? Who did babies resemble more, generally? Was there a ratio - He understood what she said, though, and he nodded. "Of course. Until whenever you and the baby are safe." But he didn't even think that they would lose the baby. They wouldn't. Things like that didn't happen a lot, did it? Well, their baby would live and they would raise it to be a great kid. "How do you think the girls and Bart will take it?" Y'know, that was probably the most important thing now. |
She smiled at him, he was so good with her children and she just knew he was going to be such a great father. He had been her rock through the election disappointment and she was so glad they had gotten to go away. Now this new change was just another thing in their life that was going to be wonderful. She still couldn’t get over that she was going to have another baby. A smile crossing her lips as she felt his hand. She knew it was still really early, but she couldn’t wait until he could feel the baby kicking. “You are so good to me.” Leaning she kissed his lips and smiled resting her head on the pillow again. “Are you happy to be a dad? I mean you kind of already are a dad to the others, but a full dad.” She knew he said he was happy, but she had to make sure. Her smile growing again as he said he would come, she was excited for him to hear the heart beat for the first time. “I’ll have appointments every so many weeks throughout, but you don’t have to go to them all. Most are just simple appointments, but this next one and one around 20 weeks will be ones you might want to be at. The 20 week one we could find out if it’s a boy or a girl. That’s if you’d want to find out.” She had for all her children so far, but she’d let him decide. She sighed a bit hearing his words about safe. She worried with as high risk as the last one was. Almost losing one from the stress she had been under. It wouldn’t be like that this time, she’d hope. Bart would behave better. He was older. “Just until the first trimester is over, then anyone can know. “ Looking at him she thought for a moment, “Alana and Elisa I think will be very excited. Bart I’m not sure.” She bit her lip knowing her son was hard to read and could go either way. |
Cosgrach kissed back and smiled at her. "You're my sunshine," he said. She was good to him. She was the greatest woman he'd ever met. At the question, he nodded with a smile. "I am..." but he trailed off, and a frown took over the smile. He... didn't even know... wasn't even sure, if... "I don't know if I can be a good father, though." From the start, that is. A fresh beginning with a baby, because he wasn't there with the hardest phase of the girls. Did she think he'd be a good father? What if she didn't!? What if - He focused on her words instead of worrying, because that would bring him nowhere. "I'll be with you in every appointment," he said. This was their baby, no matter how simple the appointments would be, he wanted to be with her. And they sounded exciting too! Hearing the heart beats, the gender... "Can't we know the gender sooner?" he asked sheepishly. He was too impatient! Did he want a girl, or a boy? HMM. He didn't know. He'd have to think about it. First trimester, got it. The girls would be excited... He smiled, and kept it even when she mentioned Bart. "I'm sure he'll be excited too. This baby couldn't have had a better big brother." And he meant what he said. Bart was bigger now, so he would be more responsible too. |
His words were so sweet that Victoria smiled as she cuddled into him. He was her world and she couldn’t be happier. As much as she had cared for and loved others, he was the one that seemed to get her the best, he was the one that was so supportive and there for her exactly how she needed. Her perfect match she truly felt was finally found. This new stage was going to be wonderful with him. Slipping her hand into his she squeezed it at his words. “Cosgrach Culloden don’t you even put that in your head. “ She kissed his cheek, “You will be a wonderful father. You are an amazing step father to the girls and Bart. So loving, I couldn’t have asked for a better man to be part of their lives along with their own fathers.” Well at least Charely, she could deal with Jon not being there first. “I know this is your first and it can be nerve wracking, but I’m here and we will do all of this together.” She smiled sweetly and encouraging hoping that helped take out the fear he was having. He was going to be at every appointment that made her smile even more. He was excited about this whether he was worried about how he would be. This alone calmed her nerves more of her original freak out. She laughed, “We developments of the baby, the earliest we can see is fifteen to sixteen weeks.” Not even magic could develop a baby faster and she wouldn’t want it to. She had enough high risks and saw what stress could do her last pregnancy. No this one she hoped would be calmer and easer. He has so much faith in her son and she couldn’t help, but possibly hope for a little boy for Bart to have a brother, but she’d love a little girl just as much. “Yes, I hope he will be. He loves the twins so much and is so good with them.” He had come around and now they just adored their bigger brother as well as she was sure he adored them. “During Easter break we will tell him. I don’t want to do it over owl and I want to have us both together telling him if that’s alright.” She hoped it would be. |
No? He would? A wonderful father, that is? But, but, see! They were ALL grown up! Even the girls, they didn't cry so much anymore. He didn't even know the right way to hold a baby. But he didn't say it out loud, in the fear that she would change her mind. If she thought he really would be a good father... and maybe she could teach him. He was ready to learn. He would learn. If only it was easy... It was his turn to squeeze her hand. "Thank you," he said, because he didn't know what else to say, and also because he did feel grateful that she had faith in him. Thanking her was all he could do while he was still doubting himself. They would see soon anyway, in a year or so. Well, bummer. He chuckled softly against his fears. "I guess I can wait that much." Yeah. A baby girl, or a baby boy? They would wait and see. In the meantime, they could think of names. What should they call the baby? How did she choose the girls' and Bart's names? Was there a book or something? Hmm. He'd ask later. Loving the twins, Bart did, and Cosgrach hoped he would love this baby just as much. He nodded. "I'm sure he will be." Cosgrach didn't even think Bart wouldn't, he was that sure. "Yeah, that's the best way," he said. Big news required big moments, and she would be out of danger zone by then, he hoped. "I bet you're tired," he said, because HE was after the scare. "Do you need anything?" She wouldn't move so much now, he would do everything for her! |
She couldn't help but smile at him. It was so surreal now. She was going to be a mom again. She was pregnant again. Remember how she had gotten rid of the infant things and how sad she was, but now she was going to get to do it all over again. Though the sleepless nights was not something she was looking forward again, but she'd take them. Keeping her arms around him, she just smiled at his thank you, it was not needed. She loved him so much and just knew he'd be a great father. He proved it daily with her own children. If he remembered the twins weren't even two when he came into their lives, so he had been with babies before. "It will come faster then you think." It always seemed to go super fast, but yet slow at the same time. She'd be getting a belly quicker then she did with Bart. It seemed the more pregnancies you had the faster you started showing. "Wait until you can't hug me like this anymore." She chuckled moving her hand over her stomach again. "No I don't need anything, just you here tonight. I am tired, but I'm always tired these days. The little one likes to take a lot out of me during this trimester." She chuckled happily. Closing her eyes she did feel like sleep was going to come quickly. |
Easter break this was great. He wasn't leaving the couch unless it was for food. Food he'd leave for. Seeing his sisters playing on the floor he thought about going over, but yeah couch. He half wondered if he could send a message to Cinna to see if she'd want to come over, they needed to talk and since they were out of school for break it might be a good time to figure some things out. With those thoughts he shifted on the couch and decided to get up and play with his sisters. "Can I have a doll?" He took the doll Alana handed him and walked her around, "Oh look at me I'm a witch." Doing his best girl impression to make them laugh. He'd do just about anything for his sister, though maybe not in front of people. Alana was sitting with Elisa playing with her dolls, this was fun and Bart was home! She was so happy to have her brother home. Getting up she went over to her Easter basket. "Mommy can I have candy?" Yelling toward the kitchen. She wanted some of the chocolate, but was sure she'd be told no. Moving back to her doll by Elisa she smiled as Bart sat down. "Sure" Handing over one of her dolls she gigged as he made his voice go funny. "Do you have to go back to school?" She hated when he had to leave. She always missed him, plus if he left daddy Cossy had to leave too. She hated when they weren't around. Victoria was in the kitchen getting Easter dinner ready. She was so happy, being 16 weeks along, she was feeling better and now feeling little flutters inside of her, making the pregnancy so much more real. Not that the clothes getting too tight wasn't a daily reminder that she would soon need to start using maternity clothes. Maybe she'd see if Mariel would like to go shopping. Standing up from the oven she put her hand over her tiny belly. Hearing Alana she made her way out to the living room and smiled to see her three kids playing together. Leaning against the doorway she just stood watching them. She knew her and Cossy were going to tell them all together today about the new addition, but she wondered how they would take the news. She wanted them all to be excited, but Bart was her worry. He was so good with these two and seemed to be doing better in school. She hadn't seen an owl of him being in trouble for awhile and if he had been Cossy hadn't said. Maybe he was finally growing up a bit. She was hopeful. |
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Cosgrach emerged from upstairs. With the help of Maddox, he had been getting better ar charms - and of course, he practised cleaning charms in his spare time to help Victoria. Surprisingly, although he was the potions master, her meals were still better than his, so he let her cook. Cleaning was HIS responsibility, though, and he was finally done with it just in time to hear the girl's question. "Not for a while," he answered for Bart and smiled at them as he wrapped his hand around Victoria standing at the door. Bart would be a great big brother again, he knew it. So... was it time to announce the big news or..? |
Victoria felt the arm go around her and she rested her hand on his as it lay on her tiny forming baby bump. Leaning more against him she smiled at her children and then turned her head to look up at him. "This has been such a perfect day. I hate that you two have to go back." She was ready for summer to have her family with her everyday. Leaning up she kissed his cheek, "Thank you for cleaning. " She knew the efforts he made when he was at home and she truly did appreciate them. Hearing her girls ask the well known Easter question she chuckled. "After dinner. It won't be too much longer." She checked the time. They would eat in about a half hour which gave them a good hour an a half before Charely would come for the girls. She always tired to keep on schedule. Taking his hand she moved towards the couch and sat down. "Hey guys, Cossy and I want to talk to you for a second. We have a little surprise." This was a bit exciting, she had to admit. She just hoped they all would think the news was as good as she did. Alana laughed at her brother, he was so funny. She loved when he was around and when her bigger brother was around. She'd get to see Wade later though and the baby! YAY! She loved Teddy. Playing with her dolls hair she smiled, "Indy will do my hair like this later." She smiled at Elisa in a bit of a taunting way. Though for no reason at all, but her focus soon went back to Bart as he played with her doll and she moved her own doll closer. A frown forming on her face when daddy Cos Cossaid they'd be leaving even if it wasn't for awhile. she didn't like that. She didn't want him to leave, but before she could say anything Mommy told them they had something to say. Where they going on a trip? Or maybe daddy cos cos wasn't going to go back this time. Yay! She got up and took off towards the couch climbing up and sitting next to her mommy. "What is it?" Bart continued to play with Alana and Elisa, moving the doll towards them both. "Oh does she do your hair often?" He figured she did when they were around. He might have to go over later to hang with Luc if he got bored here. Hearing Cossy's voice he put down the doll real quick, not to be busted playing with little girl toys, though he knew he had been caught. Breath a word of this Cossy and their'd be a potion in the next batch of mom's cookies, he thought as he turned back to the girl. "Oh it will be okay, you are headed to your dad's anyway. So you won't miss me at all." Truth be told he didn't like leaving them either, but he had things to talk to Cinna about, so yeah, he was fine going back. Looking over to his Mom and step dad he didn't rush over like Alana, but turned to focu on them more. A surprise? Maybe a vacation this summer, that would be nice. He hoped it was far, though he had Quidditch, so he wouldn't want to be gone too long. |
Cosgrach didn't answer back - he didn't want to think of leaving them yet. Instead, he smiled sweetly at her. "Of course." Of course he would clean. He lived in the house too, and he had to help with the house chores anyway. He laughed at the girls, and followed Victoria to the couch. Good thing the girls were asking HER, because he would certainly eat WITH them and then eat the dinner TOO. He sat down next to her and didn't let go of her hand. He was too excited/nervous for this. He . . . would tell them. He took a deep breath, looked into all of their eyes and said "You're going to have another sibling!" C-c-could he smile??? Because he WAS. And also he was emotional, excited and happy. WERE THEY, TOO? |
Elisa liked what Bart was doing to the doll still. She decided to get one of her stuffed bunny rabbits for him to play as next. Indy will do my hair like this later. She turned her head to her sister, "She'll do mine like that too." Sticking her tongue out for no reason as well. Then Big brother Bart talked about them forgetting about him when their dad's. Elisa shook her head, "No waaay. We want you to come with us." Did she and Alana need to do their trusty sister not-letting-go hugs that Wade taught them? She was all for it too. Getting up on her two feet before Mommy called them over. "..A surprise?" She blinked a little looking at her and Daddy CoCo. What sort of surprise was it? Wait. What? Another sibling. "Wooow!" She jumped a little. "When can we see them?" Was the owl on their way over to deliver them as they speak? Elisa wanted to know these things. They were going to be big sisters now! |
Why did her sister just stick her tongue out at her? Alana glared and threw her doll at her. "Mommy!!! Elisa stick her tongue out." Though she was distracted by Elisa's next words and the sticking tongue out was forgotten, "Please Bart come to daddy's." He went over there even if daddy wasn't his. He hung with Luc, so it was okay. Her brown eyes focused on Daddy Cos Cos when he spoke and the words did not register. "What's a sibling?" Had she ever heard that word before? Though Elisa seemed to know what it was. She looked at her. "People coming over?" Like a birthday party? She jumped up and ran to the window, but no one was there. Now she was really confused. Bart couldn't help but just laugh at the girls. They were so funny at times, "Nah, I can't go over there. Plus Luc has to go back with me. I have to go find Cinna soon." They would have to just deal with him being gone, it wouldn't be much longer before summer. Staying right at his place on the floor he looked over to Cossy and blinked at his words. "A what?" He knew what it meant, but it wasn't sinking in. "Thought you couldn't have anymore kids." Looking straight at his mother, this was weird. He was going to be 16 and they were expecting a baby. Turning his attention to his sisters he looked at Alana, "A baby, mum's going to have a baby." So the rugrats wouldn't be the rugrats anymore. "So how far along are you?" He knew to ask the question from the last time. He couldn't help but look at his sisters and remember how much he hated the last time and how close he came to not having them at all. Yeah that was all he needed turning back to face his parents he gave a grin, "Cool, congrats." He wasn't sure he was that cool with it, but he'd let them believe he was. Victoria might have been holding her breath for her children's reactions. First was Elisa and she smiled then Bart correcting Alana, "Well the baby is in my tummy right now, but we will all get to meet him or her in September. The healer is saying the sixth. Though it could be earlier, you both came very early." Way too early for her liking. Her eyes fell on little Alana and her mind went to the health issues at the beginning, but she was so strong now. It put a smile on her face. Eyes moving to Bart as he spoke, she couldn't read his tone. Something about him all day seemed off, but she couldn't figure it out. She was always so worried about her oldest. A small smile crossed her lips as he finally spoke, "Thank you, that means a lot to know you are okay with this." She wanted to hug all of them. It could be time for that couldn't it? |
New scene Cosgrach flood first to make sure everything was order before Helena (!!!!!!!!) and Victoria came back. He had been generally smiling since the birth, except when he was worried about his fathering skills. Everyone's reassurances aside, he had to live and see that he could handle a new born. Making sure everything looked in order, he yelled at Bart and girls that they should come and see the babyyyyy! |
She had only been gone for a few days, but Victoria felt like it was longer. She missed her girls and her own bed. It would be nice to be home with her newest daughter. As she stepped out of the fireplace she heard Cossy calling the children and smiled. It still seemed surreal that her family was so complete. He was so loving to all her children even if they were not his and now they had a child together. It was a perfect moment in the thirty eight year old's eyes. Looking down at her infant she smiled sweetly, "Welcome home Helena" Making her way to the sofa, she knew the twins would be eager to see their new sister. It was always so hard at the hospital for children to visit, so their visit was very short. This would be better for them. Her brown eyes lifting as she heard them coming down the stairs. "Yes I'm home." She chuckled at Alana, it was good to be home. She was playing dolls in her room when she heard him. Cossy was home, did that mean mum was too? She adored her step father, but she missed her mommy. Jumping up "Come on Elisa, mommy's home!" Which if mommy was home meant baby was here. Zipping down the hall and almost colliding into her brother she giggled and kept running. The stairs were nothing to stop her as she jumped a few on her way. Finally hitting the first floor, she bounced into the living room. "Mommy are you really home?" She wasn't just here to visit was she? She knew Cossy did that when school was in, but mummy never did that. So she'd be home for good now, at least Alana hoped so. Peering over her mom's shoulder she looked at her sleeping sister. "Why is she sleeping? I want to play with her." Remembering mommy said they couldn't play with a newborn she ignored it for now and just kept watching. HE had been in his room doing stuff when he heard the familiar voice of his step father and professor. Getting up from his bed, he headed out in the hall just to almost run into his twin sisters. "Hey slow down" He didn't need any broken bones and give up the rest of the quidditch season. Getting down the steps he stopped before getting to the couch. He had seen and held Helena at the hospital, so he'd let his little sisters have their time. "How you feeling?" He knew she seemed to be better then last time, but he still had a concerned look. He was certainly old enough to realize something didn't go right last time, but it all seemed normal for Helena, which was good. |
Cosgrach laughed at Alana and stood standing by Vic, a hand on her shoulder and eyes looking at Helena more than anywhere. She was just so small and it felt like the moment he looked away, something bad would happen to her. "Alana," he said softly, "Helena's too little to play with you now. You've gotta take care of her as a big sis to be big like you!" Then they could play, but by then, he guessed the girls wouldn't really want to play with a baby anymore. "Hey Bart," he said, and sat down by Victoria and smiled to himself. Life couldn't be any more perfect. |
Taking a seat it was still a bit tiring to be up and about for too long, so she welcomed the comfort of their couch. Seeing the girls come next to her she smiled at them both. Chuckling at Alana's words. "Cossy is right. She's too small to play with right now, but I'll need both your help taking care of her. Do you think you can be mommy's big helpers?" She smiled at her husband next to her, she couldn't be happier at that moment. All four of her children home and healthy, her amazing love by her side. It was more then she could have ever thought possible. Looking up at Bart she smiled, "I'm tired, but feeling fine sweetie." She could tell he was nervous and he had every right to be. He might have been off at school, but he knew what had happened with the twins. She reassured him as much as she could. Knowing they had just two weeks before her guys were back at school. Taking a breath she didn't want to think about that day yet. Alana wanted to curl up on her mother's lap, but the baby was there. She didn't know how to feel about this. So instead she climbed up on Cos Cos lap. He's still hold her, right? She glanced over to see the baby, she was so little like one of her dolls. "Can I hold her?" She was four she was a big girl so maybe she could hold Helena. She looked at Cos Cos as he answered her question about playing and then her mother when she said she could help. "I help!" She was a good big helper! "I missed you mommy." Though she got to be at her dad's while her mom was in the hospital so that was fun too. She loved daddy's house. "I missed you too Cos Cos." She hugged her step dad a bit needy for attention now that she wasn't the baby anymore with her sister. Finding a seat on the chair across from the couch, Bart watched his family with his new sister. It wasn't anything new to him, but he was glad she was here. "Okay, just making sure." He did worry about her, but he'd be around to help out for the next two weeks if needed. "How you doing pops?" He knew Cossy was excited, first time dad and all. |
Cosgrach opened his arms for Alana to sit better, and then just held her there like he always did. It didn't occur to him yet that she could be jealous, because he THOUGHT little children liked babies. He smiled back at Vic. They were a family - the best one, if you asked him. "Let's hold her together?" he suggested, glancing at Vic to see if this was a GOOD idea or if he should have directly said "No" to Alana in case she wanted to hold her on her own in the future. But... Vic wouldn't let that. Nuh uh. And anyway - ugh, no, he was overanalysing. Alana would see that she couldn't hold Helena on her own anyway. He had to relax and remind himself he could be a good dad. Awww! "I missed you too, babygirl," he said and huuuuugged her back. He couldn't believe HOW or WHEN it happened, but he rarely thought Alana wasn't really his daughter - the twins had just stole his heart like that. And he didn't know HOW, but instead of his love for others' getting weaker, his heart expanded to love Helena just as much. A parent's heart was weird like that. He smiled at Bart - a geniune, happy smile. "Great," he said, simply. Everything was perfect. |
She smiled sweetly at Alana as she wanted to hold her sister and nodded as Cossy said about holding her together. "Put out your arms like mommy has hers." She waited for both Cossy and Alana to be ready before turning a bit and placing Helena in their arms. She watched them for a moment with a smile on her face. Her family just felt so complete, how she thought this was crazy to have another baby at her age, but now it all just made sense. "Elisa you can hold her next if you want." She knew both her girls would want their turns. Looking up at Bart she smiled, "I haven't missed too much in the few days I've been gone?" She knew she hadn't been gone too long, but it seemed it didn't take long for her son to have something fully different going on his life. Alana was very comfortable in Cos Cos lap and she beamed when her mommy said she could hold her sister. Nodding to her step father as he said they could hold her together. When the baby was placed into their arms she beamed. "Hi baby, I'm your big sissy!" She kept her eyes on the baby, "She's so small" Tryig to be a big girl she looked to Cos Cos, "She wooks like you." Remembering people always said she looked like her daddy or mommy at times, so she thought it might be the right thing to say. Bart couldn't help but chuckle at his sister. She was just so excited and he thought it cute to see them wanting to hold the baby. Getting up he moved to the mantle and grabbed the camera. Taking some pictures of his sisters with the new baby and his parents. |
Okay, Mama had confirmed his idea, so Cosgrach readied his hands to hold Helena with Alana. Was she happy with it? How about Helena? Could she... register it was her sister, or..? Questions that he could never answer. Well, Alana introduced herself anyway, so Cosgrach smiled to himself. It was a great thing that twins and Bart had been excited for another sister. He nodded at Alana. "She needs a looooong time to be big like you," he said - four years weren't long for him, but he bet they felt like ages for children. ...okay, he wasn't expecting THAT and he laughed. "Why, thank you I guess," he said. No, he knew Alana could see that the baby looked like NOTHING at all. Babies didn't even resemble human for the first few months. But Alana was cute, and he made a mental note to kiss him for that later. Oooooooh, picture time! "Cheeeeeeeeeese." HEHEHE. |
Bart took a few more pictures of his family as they greeted his new sister. It was kind of fun watching them. He liked seeing his mother so happy, though he worried about her. Since he was eight he worried more and more about her. Standing and putting the camera back on the mantel he walked towards the kitchen. “I’m going to make some food for the girls and myself, do you two want anything?” He couldn’t cook, no he left that to Cinna and his mum, but he could make little things. He knew there was some lunch meat so he could do sandwiches. Alana was holding her sister and she didn’t care about anything else right now. Though she did smile at the camera when Bart would say cheese. Giving him a big cheesy grin and giggling hearing Cos Cos say cheese. “Cheese” Though she didn’t like the long time talk, “but I want to pway with her now.” Why were babies so little when she wanted to play? She was too busy cooing over her little sister to hear him say anything about I guess. “Elisa look at her hair.” She had dark hair which was funny to Alana, “My babies don’t have hair.” Why didn’t her baby dolls have the hair that Helena had? Looking up at her brother as he said about food she grinned, “Cheese sanmwich please.” She loved cheese sandwiches. “Helena like a sanmwich too.” Bart would make her one too, wouldn’t he? She had to eat. Victoria watched as Cossy and Alana held Helena smiling at them. It was all too much and she felt tears of joy hitting her eyes. Emotions were so hard right now, she wanted to control them, but she just couldn’t. Smiling at the camera she chuckled at her son. He was such a great brother and had come so far in her eyes. She couldn’t believe he’d be a sixth year this year. Where did the time go. “I still want you two guys to get the most out of your summer, before you have to go back to school.” She hated that they were going to go, but she didn’t want them, especially Bart, to feel obligated to just sit around the house either. She’d need some help with the older girls while she wasn’t allowed to lift things, but when they were at Charely’s she’d been sleeping to keep up with Helena’s schedule as much as she could. Looking towards Bart she gave him an appreciative look, “Something to eat would be lovely Bart thank you. I think Grandma and Grandpa will be over later to help with dinner and visit with all of you.” Her parents were always an amazing help and knew they’d be eager to jump in with their newest granddaughter. |
Cosgrach was trying to come up with a way to satisfy Alana. How much did she enjoy stories, again? He couldn't remember, but it was worth a shot. "How about we tell her a story?" he said, "you, I and Elisa can play with your dolls to illustrate the story, and she can listen to it. Bet she'd love that." He was actually a terrible story teller, so he hoped Alana wouldn't want HIM to tell it. He'd just play the role she'd give him. Meanwhile, he completely missed Vic's tears, but looked at her when she spoke. "I'm sure we're enjoying the summer," he said a grinned. He'd babysit whenever Bart wanted to go out. Actually, he probably should tell that to him directly when they weren't holding Helena... He didn't say anything about a sandwich for Helena, but rather said "Yeah, whatever you can make would be nice." He wasn't too picky about food, and he wouldn't torture Bart by wanting a complex sandwich. Oh, they were going to get parent food for dinner? SWEET. |
Alana looked at Cos Cos as he said about a story, “Can I pick the book?” She loved picking the book! Helena could get off her now, she was done holding her sister. Looking at her mother she moved her hands that way, forcing Cos Cos too. “Take Helena Mommy, we tell story” Once Helena was gone she jumped out of his lap and ran to get a book. They were even going to get to play dolls. YAY!! Best day ever! “Here” She handed him the book she had picked and then went to grab a doll. Victoria watched as her daughter misunderstood her husband, but chuckled at her excitement. Taking Helena back so that the baby wouldn’t be in the way of the four year olds, she watched as Alana ran off. “They just adore you, you know?” She looked at Cosgrach with loving eyes. “You are wonderful to them. I love you so much.” The emotions still overwhelming her, her tears formed again. Holding Helena close she wiped her eyes, before seeing her daughter come back. “I think Helena would love a story from all of you.” It was probably getting close to feeding time, so her youngest daughter would soon be waking up. She glanced towards the kitchen hoping Bart was doing alright, she had never trusted him in her kitchen. “Bart do you need any help?” She could manage getting up and going to help if he needed it, though she was feeling pretty drained from the day. Not being one to ever enjoy down time, she knew the recovery of delivery was never one she was good at. Bart was already in the kitchen when he heard Cossy say anything would be fine. Checking the fridge he found some Ham and lettuce, so he began making the sandwiches. Adding some mayo, cheese, and pickles he thought it was perfect for all of them. Grabbing a plate, he piled them on and headed back to the living room. “Alana what are you all excited about?” He saw her with a book and then her doll. She would never be this happy for a nap, so he was a bit confused as to what was going on. “Ham sandwiches for everyone.” If they wanted anything else, he figured they’d say. |
Cosgrach opened his mouth answer Alana, but she was gone to pick the book anyway. He chuckled at her enthusiasm. So, they also handled Helena over to Vic. Okay. He looked at Vic, and felt like his heart could explode. They just adore you, you know? "I hope... I will be more than just a step dad when they grow up and look back," he said as he moved to kiss her cheek. The girls meant the world to him, even though they weren't biologically his. He knew the tears were of happiness, so he didn't try to wipe them. She wiped them anyway before Alana came, and he smiled at her. "Let's see which book you have," he said as he opened the book she picked, but was distracted by Bart. "Thank you, son," he said, put the book aside to eat and grabbed a sandwich. He'd tell a story to Helena with girls and dolls right after this sandwich. His family... he'd never felt so happy and complete in his life. |
After Victoria finished eating a small cry made her aware it was someone else's turn to eat. So leaving the kitchen she went to feed Helena. In the quiet living room she sat in the rocker and looked down at her new baby daughter smiling. It was just surreal that she was back at this stage again. She didn't think she'd be having another baby, "You are certainly our little miracle child." She leaned down kissing the infants head. Looking up she saw the twins come running into the living room and then off to their bedrooms, the book forgotten for now. With the newness of the baby a bit older now, she figured they'd go off and play on their own. Her eyes lifting just as Helena had finished eating she saw her son coming into the room. "Thank you so much for making us some lunch." She watched as he headed for the fireplace, "Have fun and don't be gone too late." She knew he was sixteen and didn't want to hang around the house, but she had just gotten home, so she'd like them to all be together a for a little bit. Though some quiet time with just Helena and her husband might be nice as well. Brown eyes went back to Helena as she started to cry. "What's wrong little one?" She just ate so she couldn't be hungry. |
Now that everyone was a bit calmer, Cosgrach just leeeeaned back on the couch until it was only Vic, him and... a crying Helena. Okay no panic no panic no panic - "Whatisit?" Was she HURT? WHY DIDN'T VIC KNOW? |
She looked down at her fussy little baby and thought about a few things that could be going on. Her attention moved to her husband as he asked her what was going on. She smiled knowing he was a bit jumpy with a newborn, [b] "It's alright, I think you could just be a little gassy."[b] Vic laid Helena down on the couch and took her feet into her hands. Gently she moved the baby's legs close to her tummy and back out straight again. Repeating this a few times she smiled as the baby's cries grew quieter. "There we go, are we better now?" Lifting the newborn up and kissing her face, she held her close. The day was beginning to wear on the new mom as she leaned against her husband and let a yawn escape her lips. "I might need to lay down soon and try to nap a little." Leaning she kissed Cossy's cheek. He wouldn't mind if she slept, would he? She had just gotten home from having their daughter and all. "I think she needs a diaper change before nap time though, would you want to do it?" She didn't mind doing it, but she figured she'd ask him first. |
Oh, gassy. Hmm. How did one get the gas - oh, holding her tiny cute feet, and... Cosgrach watched intently as if his life depended on it. Yeah, they were definitely better now and Cosgrach smiled a little. He felt a little sleepy too, so he nodded at her. Would Helena sleep? That was the question, because last time he checked, babies cried 24/7, though his babygirl had been good about that so far Wait, diaper? He blinked as if that was a word he was hearing for the first time. "I - yeah," he stammered, "but you've gotta show me." Diaper... what? Wasn't ther a magic for it? |
He was quiet, she looked at him a little concerned. Maybe he was just as tired as she was. It had been a long few days. The birth wasn't long, but him going back and forth from home to the hospital probably had been. She was so lucky to have him be so good to her and her children. Looking down at her infant she smiled as she noticed Helena was already close to sleep. "Alana and Elisa aren't going to like the first few months. This is all she really will be doing." It was funny how they slept so much, but could wake up with a start if something was wrong or hunger kicked in. She thought about her other three children with this. "Oh I bet you would do fine, but sure I can show you." The hospital stay was a bit of a blur, so she felt a little bad that she hadn't shown him there. She grabbed the diaper back and pulled out the wipes and diaper. Setting Helena in between them and smiling, "It's very easy really. All you do is take the old one off." Showing him how as she went. "Take a wipe and clean her up and then put the fresh one on." As she attached the little Velcro side and snapped her baby's sleeper back up she looked to Cossy, "Easy enough, right?" The man was a brilliant potions professor she just knew he'd be fine at diapers. |
Wait, so the rumours that the babies didn't let the parents sleep were... rumours? That Helena would usually sleep? Well... Cosgrach didn't hide his grin, because he did want to sleep, thank you very much. And a few months later, Helena would understand a simple 'sleep' command a few months later, yes? SWEET. "Raising a kid sounds easy, actually," he even said, but got serious when it was time for some business. He got up and stood beside her to see better. ... "It looks simple, yes," he said after a moment. "I could... try next time." Maybe. He didn't really want to deal with it, but... "Now that Helena -" yaaaaaaaaaaaaawn, "- Helena's sleeping too, shall we sleep?" Hmm? |
She couldn't help but eye him a little at his comment about easy. "Define your term of easy Mr. Culloden." She gave him a little joking smile, "New born babies are very easy, unless they form colic. They sleep most of the time, but are up every two hours wanting to eat. So they will let you sleep, but only on their schedule and with you going back to school and me having two other children here, that won't be much." Next time? More eyeing, was it the hormones or was he being really a man right now? She had just had the baby, but sure she'd get up to change her and all. Pulling off the diaper she had just been talking him through, Victoria cleaned up her daughter and put a fresh diaper on. "Once she is a little older she will hopefully sleep more, but it all depends. She'll be more awake around three months and watching everything, Merlin help me when she gets to the crawling stage with the other girls. She'll want to be doing anything they are, but still be too little." It will be cute to watch for the most part though she knew that. Getting up she looked around the empty house she made sure things were in order and then turned her eyes back to her husband. "Yes that's probably a good idea. The bassinet is by the bed so we can put her in there with us." |
It was late, really late and Victoria was up. She yawned as she bounced Helena trying to get her to calm. The eight month old had been fussing off and on all day and she didn't seem to want to sleep at all. What was going on with her Victoria wasn't fully sure, but she assumed she was teething. "Are those awful teeth bothering you sweaty? " She hated her being so upset, but she tried to comfort the best way she could. Taking the teething ring she flicked her wand to refreeze it and handed it back to the infant. "Mommy need to work tomorrow, you have to sleep soon baby girl." She moved towards her planner and opened it to see if she might be able to take half a day just in case this was going to be never ending. Alana was happily sleeping in her nice big comfy bed. She was so cozy and smiling as she dreamed about candy and horses, but that was until she was forced awake by that noise. She hated that noise even if it came from her little sister. It was always keeping her awake. Getting out of bed she headed down the stairs, "Mommy tell her to stop. I can't sweep." She frowned and rubbed her eyes. |
Cosgrach emerged from the room in a zombie-like state. He wasn't the guy you'd wake up. He never got angry at Helena, Vic and the twins (although he would be very furious at others) for it, but he clearly wasn't happy either. Eyes barely open, his voice croaked: "You sleep, I'll take care of her." He didn't have any morning classes, thankfully, and Alana was here to help him too. |
Her brown eyes lifted from her almost one year old to her almost five year old. "Oh Alana honey go back to bed. She's cutting a few teeth is all." Looking back down at Helena she bounced her to try and sooth her. Then grabbed the cold towel for her to chew on. Hearing her husband she frowned, she hated all of them being awake. After doing it all school year she was use to the minimal sleep she got, but knew the others were not. "Oh it's okay I'm awake anyway." She looked back at her planner and the Daily Prophet article that sat opened near her. She had just read about the school issues, that neither her son or husband had kept her in the loop about. "I'll be glad when all these teeth are in." |
Victoria sat on the couch sipping her morning coffee. She loved weekends. Sitting watching the twins play with her one year old. Life was very good at the moment. "Alana be careful, I know she's walking but you still have to be careful with her." The girls were loving Helena being able to walk now, but it made Vic worry even more. Opening the paper she turned the pages to see if the investigation was in at all. Not seeing Rebecca's name anywhere she set it back down not caring about the rest of the news. She hadn't heard anything in awhile and she was hoping the woman would be charged soon. She knew she was guilty and it took everything in her not to harm the woman herself. No one tried to harm her children. Thinking of Bart she thought about how she was going to head down to Australia soon. Hoping Cossy could go to she knew her oldest would like to see his step father at a match. |
...and, a few moments later, the fireplace turned green to reveal the dad of the house. "I'm hoooome!" he announced just like how he always did as he dusted off in it (he was the mindful husband did Vic appreciate?) and stepped out. Three of his favourite women were there, all together. The weekend couldn't have started any better. |
Alana was playing dolls with Elisa and had just moved to Helena when she heard the fireplace. Her eyes widened in anticipation on who it could be. Hearing his voice she jumped up and ran towards her step father. "Cos Cos" Being five she could say Cossy, but she liked Cos Cos and he was her Cos Cos. She jumped at him and hugged him. "I miss you!" It was mum's weekend which meant they got to spend time with Cos Cos too. As she found herself lost in thoughts of her son, Victoria jumped a bit hearing the fireplace. She knew who would be coming through it though with the time and day it was. Her smile grew as she heard her husbands voice and watched Elisa and Alana run to him. "Girls let him get in the room first." Goodness they were excitable. "Welcome home honey." She got up and moved to give him a kiss. Looking down she saw their 17 month old babbling dada toddling over with her hands in the air. "Such a daddy's girl." She chuckled knowing all her girls were daddy's girls. The twins had been blessed with getting to have two wonderful fathers to be daddy girls with. "Are you hungry?" |
Cosgrach had braced himself for this attack; so when the twins ran to him, he laughed, petted their heads and hugged them back. "I missed you too, baby girl," he said to Alana and got up to kiss his wife back. "Hello, love," he said, then feeling an addition to the hands hugging him, he looked down to see Helena. Merlin, he felt so LOVED! "Sorry for stealing them from ya," he said to Vic and grinned as he lifted little Placing her on his shoulders (which elicited a delighted giggle from the girl), he shook his head. "Nah. Figured I'd be too busy with these," he pointed at the girls, "to eat." Ooooooooo - and craaaaaaash to the couch! Followed by more giggles and a "Daddy again!" though he opted to lift the girl again and sit her next to him. He had to make sure Vic was fine before he played with any of the girls. "How are you?" |
Alana beamed as he said he missed her too. She watched him pull Helena up and a pout on her lip became apparent. in her mind shew as Cos Cos favorite until Helena showed up. Turning she headed back to her dolls. She was not a fan of getting too big to be held. She liked being held. "I hungry mommy" Could they have cookies? Victoria laughed, "You aren't stealing them from me. I get them everyday all day unless at work. You don't get to see them as often being at school this time of year. They need their dad time." She couldn't help but laugh as Alana walked over to her dolls, "Always the dramatic one." She messed with her daughter's hair. Elisa was always so much more calmer then Alana. Alana and Elisa saying they were hungry made her shake her head, "Of course you are. Though we didn't have dinner that long ago. How about some chocolate chip cookies since we baked them earlier." Sitting back on the couch as she watched the two five year old's run off, "bring one back for Helena" her eyes turned back to her husband. "I'm doing fine. Work is work, busy with the season, but it's going well. We have a few new employees so I've been training them. " January was usually training time, she thought about maybe getting some refresher training for her other staff as well. |
So, Alana DID mind. Oops. Cosgrach made a mental note to lift her with magic next time, but right now, Vic came to his help and told them they could have cookies. Thank you, wife. She was still so much better at parenting than he was. "Cookies!" was all that Helena said before she expertly jumped off the couch to follow her sisters. She walked as fast as she could. She wanted, too! Dad time... he thought about the letter he had brought with him as Helena followed her sisters, but he had more important things to discuss before he got to that. "Did you hear anything from Rebecca's investigation?" he asked, unconcerned about Helena's fast walking. If she fell, the twins would pick her up anyway. "Do you like the new ones?" The most important question at a work place. |
"Helena be careful." She watched her one year old toddle toward the kitchen. Shew as getting so big, but her movements still worried Vic, she didn't want to see her bump her head. Once she was in the kitchen with the other two girls her eyes went back to her husband though a frown moved to her lips at the name he spoke. "Nothing, I get no answers from anyone. All I get is Jon telling me that Bart and I are lying and that his wife has done nothing wrong. I'm accused of being ungrateful since she is the one that got him into the Quidditch Academy. Though I know get why she was so eager to send him to a school so far away." Her frustration coming out in her words she signed to calm again. "I worry there isn't enough evidence to pin her for hiring the wizards." She knew Bart wouldn't be in harms way now, the school was aware of what had happened and were going to have extra eyes out. That did make her feel better. "I would like to go to a game soon. Maybe it could be a family weekend trip?" She hoped he could go away for a weekend. "They seem alright. As long as they do their job I will be fine with them." She got along with almost everyone, well everyone but one manger really. [b] "How is school going? Seems you are having a nice quiet term, no awful issues."[b] "She was not a fan of that school and was glad Bart wasn't there anymore. |
Not hearing anything from anyone was good in a way, wasn't it? Meant she didn't have to be reminded of Rebecca too much. Though, he did frown deeply when Jon was mentioned. How was he the one who accused them? Cosgrach help her hand instinctively - a sign that he was there for them. "She will be punished, I'm sure," he said, "and Jon... will realise what kind of a family he lost." He didn't really want to speak ill of her first husband and Bart's dad, even though he was grateful for the man's mistakes as they turned into HIS blessing. Going to a game, though? "I'd love to," he said and grinned. He had missed that boy - he bet the whole family did. He chuckled. Sure, what else would a manager want? "I hope they do," he said, and looked thoughtful only a fraction of a second when she asked about school. Now was the time, then. To talk about it. The university did want an answer, after all. "Surprisingly, yes. No one is plotting against us so far." Which was quite a success at Hogwarts, actually. "There's something I need to talk to you about, though. About my future there." He shifted in his seat to fully turn to her. "Y'see, a professor there will retire at the end of this academic year and a friend, who is also a professor there suggested me for the job. They apparently said yes - well, it's informal still, because I haven't gone to an interview yet, but..." He could get it. Most likely. He looked into her eyes to gauge her reaction. What did she say? |
Moving closer on the couch she snuggled up against her husband. They didn't get these closeness moments often with there small girls running around the house and him gone part of the year at Hogwarts. So she was taking the chance when she got it. "I hope so. I agreed to send him thinking he would be safer not to put him in more danger. Though I think he is safe now. She isn't going to try anything while being investigated." Though Victoria never trusted the woman's father either. She felt the entire family was nothing but a bunch of cheating low life scum. A smile did appear at his words, "Oh good, I think he'd love seeing us there. Especially you." She knew the two were pretty close and shared a special step father/son bond. Now more then ever with him not wanting anything to do with his own father. "I'll look at the game schedule and see when you might get a weekend away." No one plotting against them she couldn't help but shake her head. "I swear it's only a matter of time. How anyone gets out alive most years." She was grateful they did, especially with her husband there. She sat quietly as he talked first not understanding and then it hitting her what he was talking about. "A different job? You would leave your potion position at Hogwarts? Are you sure?" She knew he loved his job there, but that could mean seeing him more. The kids would love it and so would she. "I think if that is what you want then I support you 100%." |
Cosgrach held her close and kissed her forehead. "He's a man now," he said in a reassuring tone, even though he was worried as well, "he knows what to do." More or less. Hopefully. Well, at least they could check up on him when they visited. He smiled too when she said Bart would love seeing especially him. "I missed that boy," he said, "just tell me when." He believed he could take one or two days off too. It'd be nice to visit him, yes. Didn't that mean Hogwarts was also very strong, though? Even though the whole world (mostly) was plotting against them, they were still pretty much uninjured (RIP Gregoire). Yeah! They got used to the threats. "Well... I want to spend more time with you." The whole family, that was. "Besides, the students I got close to are graduating this term. All of them. So... I guess it's fitting that I quit. And a few of them tell me they want to study potions in the university, so it'd be cool to be their professor there." He shrugged, and looked at her. So it wasn't really quitting, he was only quitting Hogwarts. Although no one died, it didn't mean no one would in the future. Last term had been close. He wanted to see the girls grow up. "I know you'll support me, but is it what you'd want as well?" |
He was a man now, she just sat there and stared at Cossy for saying those words. "He will always be my baby though no matter how old he was. "She couldn't believe her son was already of age, how did time go so quickly. She thought about the little girls in the other room and how fast that time was going to go as well. She wanted to hold onto it as much as possible. She was turning forty this year and was struggling with that as well. "I hope he does," was all she could say. She would always worry about him no matter what. A small smile crossed her lips, "I miss him too." There bound had grown and she adored that her son and husband had a good relationship. It was nice that he had a good male figure in his life. "I'll look at the schedules. It will be great to go to Australia for a weekend. Maybe we could do dinner with some of my old friends while we are there." Her smile was huge as he spoke about wanting to spend more time with her. She loved the thought of him being home in the evenings and not going away. "I would love you to be home more." Though as he spoke about students graduated she couldn't help but have a few thoughts cross her mind. "I take it you will be working where Sophie is going?" She still didn't really understand that relationship, but she didn't think about it often. She knew he was an adult and knew what he was doing. [b] "Of course it's what I would want. You'd be home more, the girls would get to see you more. I would love this, but it is your job and your future, so is this what you really want?" |
He knew that feeling now. All these four kids would still be a baby to him too. Still, he wanted to think he wasn't as emotional as Vic... he was a man. He would accept when the girls grew up . . . yeeeeeeah . . . "Sweet!" he exclaimed, even though he didn't know many in Australia. New people had never been a problem for Cosgrach though, so it was even better. He looked forward to it. Well, he wold love him to be home more too. So he smiled in relief. This was settled, then. Upon the mention of Sophie, he shook his head. "She'll become a wand maker. I will teach Adi, Grayson and Lux... probably. If they don't change their minds." Grayson hadn't, of that he was sure, but he didn't know what Adi and Lux would settle for. Hopefully for the noblest art. "I want to see more of the girls and you. I don't want them to have an absent father, y'know?" He wasn't really absent, but he wasn't 'there' a lot either. He wanted to comfort them when they were scared of thunder or monsters, though. That was what being a "dad" meant. "And if the university doesn't hire me, I'm sure the ministry will." That Department of Mysteries had always intrigued him. |
She smiled listening to him speak of his students, it would be nice to watch the children grow into adults. She couldn't really think about that as she was thinking about all the time and things they could do together if he was home all year round and not just in the summer. She knew he was home many weekends and some evenings when he could get away from the school, but to know he'd be in bed every night, at breakfast every morning, and just around to help out with the girls more, this was just so exciting. The more he talked the more she smiled, "I would love that too." Her eyebrow raised a bit, "The ministry? We could be in the same building?" That idea made her happy. They could go to work together, have lunch together, it could be so much fun. "Would you really be happy in a ministry position?" She didn't want him to do anything that wouldn't make him happy. |
Cosgrach squeezed her hand and shrugged. "I would. I want to discover the mysteries of Department of Mysteries." He chuckled, and kissed her cheek. "We could have lunch together." Actually, they could do all together. It would be nice... OM NOM NOM... Mommy cookies were AWESOME! Helena could eat... like... the WHOLE jar and she would want MORE. But the jar was finished now, and she was a successful mess - her hands, face, and the ground - so NOW she could go back and hug mommy and daddy and maybe get more rides on his shoulders. She pulled on Elisa and Alana's shirt to get their attention. "Daddy play!" she exclaimed and jumped on her feet once. If daddy wasn't home, she would play with her mommy now but he was home and he gave the best rides! Let's go, girls! Let's play with daddy and mommy! |
They could be together at work, that would be wonderful. She loved the idea of seeing him so much. After their entire relationship and marriage so far him being away at school for part of the year. Seeing him everyday would be such a treat. "We could have lunch together. It would be a wonderful thing, but you need to think about what you would want more. A job at the ministry or teaching at the university. Either way you will be brilliant." She actually thought once he'd be a great minister and wondered if he ever thought about running. Alana had been eating the cookies minding her own business when her baby sister was touching her. WITH CHOCOLATE HANDS!!! [B] "No Helena" Moving to get a towel and whip off her shirt and then her sister's hands she finished her cookies. "Want to go back in with Cos Cos?" She figured she would and picked her up. The one year old was getting heavy to Alana now, but she always managed to pick her up in a weird/awkward Helena probably hated position and walked her out towards the living room. She knew her baby could walk, but she was never as fast as Alana wanted so this was always faster. Sitting her down with a bit of a plop Alana moved back to her dolls and began to play with Elisa when she got back into the room. |
No? But she wanted to play - ohhhh, she held out her hands like the good girl she was, and exclaimed "Yeeeeeeees!" at the question. Let's go play with Cos Cos! Maybe he - Wooooooo - Alana was carrying her and while she liked being carried, Alana held her in a funny way but Helena didn't say anything because Alana was a big sister and she knew what she was doing. And anyway here they caaaaaaame! *PLOP* "Hehehehe!" Instead of being hurt, she giggled. Alana was funny, dropping her like that. She got up quickly (as quickly as a baby could) and... but why did Alana and Elisa goooooooo? "Siiiiiis," she called to both of them. Coooooome! Let's play all! Well, many factors decided that: the salary, work place, vacation, his position - Oooooh, the girls had had enough cookies, eh? "Alana!" he exclaimed - he didn't like her carrying Helena, she could hurt her back! But anyways, they were back and apparently it was play time! "What do you girls wanna play?" he asked and glanced at Vic as well. It was family play time, wasn't it? |
She was a little more use to the way the girls handled each other so seeing Alana carrying Helena wasn't anything new to her. She knew no harm was coming of them. She sat back and watched her family happily. As Cossy spoke to the girls Victoria got up, "I'm going to go make some tea. Would you like anything sweetie?" She beamed at her husband before leaning over and kissing him softly. This was such a nice family moment, if only Bart was there. Alana looked at Cossy as he said her name, "What?" Did she do something wrong? Her eyes looking at the adults in confusion before turning her head back to Elisa. "You be mommy's house and I'll be daddy's." She moved her doll over away from her sisters dolls. Moving around and playing. She stopped hearing Cossy and her mom. "Can I have some tea mommy?" Mommy said sweetie so of course she was talking to her, right? Though her kissing Cossy got an eww face. As she went to turn back around she smiled, "We are playing dolls. You can be the daddy doll." She handed him the boy doll. |
Easter! He liked getting a chance to come home and honestly he loved being in his own bed. He heard the girls waking up and talking about the bunny and all that fun stuff, but he didn't want to get up. No his bed was way too comfortable. Though he knew Cossy and e had a great surprise for his mother. So Bart finally got out of bed. Getting dressed he headed down stairs and into the kitchen. "What's for breakfast?" He grinned towards his mother knowing she'd spoil him with something. She was in the kitchen already making pancakes, sausage, bacon, and cutting up some fruit. This was her favorite time of year. She loved spring, Easter, and just having warm weather again sounded splendid. "Morning Bart have a seat." She set down plates at the table, "Have you seen your sisters?" She knew Helena was in her crib, but the twins that could be tricky. She knew there wasn't much she could get into, but she hoped that seeing the other students doing their work would help her. |
The footsteps could probably be heard from the kitchen as Cosgrach had gone to get Helena out of her crib and wake the twins up. Helena wanted to sit on his shoulders again, so she was there. If the twins wanted a ride too, they would get it after breakfast... to which, he hoped, they were coming after he'd woken them up. "Good mornin'!" he greeted his EASTER! Helena knew what that meant: chocolate, Bruvvah Bart, daddy, mummy, sissies and more play-times! So when daddy came to wake her up, she squealed and squealed even louder when he gave a shoulder-ride. "Daddyyyyy!" This was great! So exciting! Were her sisters coming? Where was Baaaaart? Oh, here he was - "Bruvvah Bart!" she exclaimed as she tried to reach him, and when she was lowered, she just hugged his leg like she would never let go. Best time ever!!! |
Seeing her husband Victoria smiled, "Good Morning. Coffee is ready if you would like some. Have a seat I was just about to bring breakfast to the table." She was always in the best mood when her family was all together. She wished this weekend could last forever. Then no one would have to head to their own worlds. No Hogwarts, No Australia, no going to their father's house. It would just be here all the time. Setting down the plates she took her own seat sipping her coffee. "I hope everyone is hungry." She had made too much food, but she figured Bart could eat most of it himself if she let him. "Morning Dad" He grinned as his little sister had attached herself to his leg. Leaning down he lifted her up, "What do you think your doing?" He chuckled before sitting at the table with Helena in his lap. He missed seeing his sisters so any chance he could get with them he took it. "Do you want some pancakes?" He put one on a plate and started breaking it into small pieces. "Hey mum dad and I have something to talk to you about." He figured maybe he could tell her before the crazy basket finding sisters came bounding down the steps, though he thought he heard them running out of their rooms this very moment. EASTER!! Cos Cos had woken them up and at fist Alana had thrown her stuffed bear at him, because she hated to be woken up. Then she remembered it was a Holiday and they got candy and cute baskets with adorable little things in it. Plus she got to wear pretty hair bows. Taking the steps two at a time she flew into the kitchen with Elisa right behind her. "Wait for me!!" Oh they were doing the breakfast thing. Could she skip the breakfast thing and go find her Easter candy? |
Cosgrach looked at the coffee, and instead of sitting down, got himself a cup. "Would you like some?" he asked so that he could bring her too if she did. "Yaaaaaaaay!" he chanted and grinned at Bart - they wanted food! HEHE. He also laughed at the poor boy and Helena, who was going to suffocate him. Oh, yeah, they had to talk about something. But before they could get serious, the twins entered. No, they couldn't skip the breakfast thing. "Wuv you," she said when Bart asked what she was doing. She loved her Bart and missed him! So, ignoring the pancakes just for now, she gave him a BIG BABY KISS. There, NOW she could enjoy the pancakes... with her hand, as curious brown eyes observed the world. |
Slipping into her seat next to Elisa, she looked at the pancakes. She still was pouting as she let her brown eyes scan her family. "When's daddy coming to get us today?" He would have let her skip breakfast if she wanted. She knew she could sweet talk him into letting her. Finally deciding to take a bite, she half listened to the conversations around her. Her eyes moved towards Bart and Helena and with a glare she turned her head back to her plate. She was taking all of his time, she wanted her brother's attention too. "Oh, yes I'll have a cup honey. Thank you." She started fixing the twings plates and making sure their chocolate smiley faces were just right. Setting them down she noticed Alana's pout, but didn't put much effort into it. Her daughter would get over whatever was bothering her. "I was thinking maybe we could have Mariel and Lori over this week with the children. Have a fun play date, what do you think?" That usually could distract her at least for a bit. Just as she was going to take her own bite, Alana's question caught her off guard and she frowned a bit, "Around 2, so we have some time here as a family." She knew the Holiday's were sometimes hard on them needing to be in two opposite places. It was kind of strange not sharing Bart anymore, but with all that had happened she was glad he wasn't going over there anymore. Shifting to the men at the table as she looked at them curiously, she took a sip of her coffee. Her birthday was coming up, could it be something about that? She hoped not since it was her 40th and she didn't really care to celebrate being that old. "What is it you want to talk to me about?" "I love you too" He kissed Helena's head and chuckled at her baby kisses. Looking at Alana and Elisa he was about to tell them he would have surprises for them when Alana asked about leaving. He knew first hand how that made his mother feel since he would utter those same words when not happy about something. "Maybe I can take you over. I haven't seen Wade or Luc in awhile. Plus I need to catch up with your dad a bit." He still saw them as family as well in a way. He took a few bites of pancake when his mom questioned them and he chuckled at her tone. [b] "Well I've been talking with dad and with evetything that has happened I don't want any part of being a Maroon. He disowned me, emptied my vault, and called me a liar. Taking her side over mine. He is no father nor do I want to be associated with him at all. So Cossy and I talked and I did the paperwork and well.... I am now officially Bartholomew Winston Culloden."[/b Taking a drink of his own coffee he watched for her reaction. |
Cosgrach poured down some coffee for her too, and sat down as she prepared the last things. A play date? "That sounds great!" he said, "I'd love that." The girls would love that too. And... Cosgrach knew Alana was only pouting because she didn't like something, but it... kinda hurt that she used My dad would let me! She was just a kid, of course, but... ugh, it was hard to explain. He was sad about it. Anyway, of course she would go over to her dad's. So, he let Bart and Vic decide that one. He took a bite from his pancake, and they were onto the important thing at last. Hehe, he perked up and looked at Bart with elated eyes. Once the boy was finished, he looked at Vic to gauge her reaction. WASN'T THIS WONDERFUL!? He wasn't about to cry, but he was clearly so sentimental. |
So she would be here for a few hours. Starting to eat her pancakes she half listened to the conversation and half sang to herself her newest favorite song. Sneaking to grab a piece of bacon off of Elisa's plate she shoved it in her mouth before her sister could scream. As she continued to eat she heard Bart say about his name change, but of course she didn't hear what name and didn't care. "Why is everyone changing their names? You changed your and now Bart. If you two can change your names I'm changing mine. I will now be Princess.. YES!! Princess Potter." She beamed triumphantly. *dramatic* Well then that was settled, "Bart will take you over. I'll message your father in a bit. We are going to have a nice breakfast first." She was determined to have a good time with her family without drama. It wasn't often all of them were together and she was going to fully enjoy this. Taking a few sips of her coffee she picked up her fork to eat. Listening to her son she nodded and frowned. She knew too well the hell she had placed him in since she had made the choice to leave her first husband. It was not something she would ever regret. It was the right decision for her and eventually for him, but she knew it had been rough and even more lately. She wished she could have been able to protect him more. O_o She sat quietly looking at them both. It was not something she was expecting not at all, but she couldn't help but smile a little. [b] "If this is what you want, you know I will fully support you. She reached over to hug her son before looking at Alana, "Fine you can be Princess Potter for the day." It just wasn't a fight she was going to fight today. He was happy to take the girls over to Charlies. "If you want me to take Helana with me I can. Then you two can relax a bit too." He didn't mind taking his sisters places. He could handle all three of them by now. Not getting to see them made him want to spend as much time with them as he could. Reaching with one hand as he kept hold of Helena with the other he hugged his mother. |
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