CHAPTER THIRTY-EIGHT
Found You.
December 24th, 1979

It was Christmas Eve already. It had been a year since she met Fabian's family and seen his excitement over the first snowflakes. Daphne had moved temporarily with Fabian and Gideon, though they kind of already lived together–they never really talked about it, Fabian had just decided to spend all of his time with Daphne.

It had been a month since Lily and Daphne's talk and Daphne was happy to see that Lily actually came to the lessons. She didn't talk much but she still came and that was enough for Daphne. Besides, letting her dive through her mind was already a huge improvement.

As for now, the clock was ticking because if Fabian didn't hurry, they'd be late to Narcissa's dinner which he was very nervous for. Fabian had spent the majority of his time at Hogwarts with Lucius and Narcissa but despite that, he still felt uncomfortable around them but Daphne was hopeful. Narcissa was good at heart, there was no doubt about that.

"Fab, love, are you ready? The clock is ticking and Narcissa hates it when we're late," she said, her heels clicking on the floor as she approached the bathroom. Not long after, she stumbled on a nervous Fabian who was still deciding on his shirt. "Darling..."

He fumbled through the pile of shirts, letting out sighs here and there, "I just can't find the right one, Daph. I'm going to lose the plot."

"Go with the black one," she proposed, leaning against the door frame. "You will be matching with me and they love black there. They say it is elegant."

He glanced at her, "You are elegant in that green," he mumbled. "I look like an twat in that!"

She snorted, "You do not! Look at me," she said softly, cupping his face. "You will be great tonight, okay? And, I will be here throughout the whole night so don't worry."

"Alright," he said unsurely as he threw on the shirt Daphne had just told him to wear.

They ended up leaving early enough so they wouldn't be late to dinner. Fabian mumbled some words she couldn't make out as he saw the Malfoy Manor for the first time. Daphne hated that place, especially with all the meetings there. Actually, it was rather surprising to be invited considering the Dark Lord was there half of the time.

"Hello," an elf said, inviting them in. Daphne instantly recognised Dobby. He was sweet and loyal. "Mistress Narcissa will be here shortly."

"Thank you, Dobby."

He smiled a bit as he heard his name and disappeared in a loud pop. Fabian was glued to Daphne's side as heels were heard on the floor, meaning Narcissa was coming.

"Oh, Daphne, you look beautiful," she cooed softly, embracing her into a tight hug. "I'm happy you could come," she added, pulling back. "You must be Fabian."

"Nice to meet you," he rambled nervously, offering his hand as she shook it nicely. "Narcissa, is it?"

"Well, yes," she answered. "I hoped you would remember me. We've shared our school years together, haven't we?"

"Right," he forced a smile.

Daphne chuckled, "Alright, you stop that, Cissa. He's already nervous," she told her cousin as Narcissa's face relaxed instantly. "Where is Lucius?"

"He's in his office, he'll be joining us shortly," she replied as she led them to the dining room. "So, Fabian, are you still practising Quidditch in your free time?"

Fabian chuckled sweetly at the question, "Merlin, I wish! I miss Quidditch but we talk about it sometimes with Daph, we've been talking of doing a match soon!"

Narcissa's face lit up, "That would be grand!" She exclaimed. "Oh, is it possible to be invited? I do love the sport myself. I wouldn't be against one last match."

"Alright, it is noted," he answered.

Narcissa smiled at Daph then at Fabian, "I reckon you might have trouble winning against this one," she pointed at her cousin, who gaped at the pointed-finger. "I've seen her play and Salazar, she is one of the best."

"Ah, I'm sure you're entirely right," he said.

"Who is one of the best?" A stern and cold voice echoed behind the young couple and Daphne could have recognised it everywhere. "Daphne," he greeted gently, kissing the back of her hand as a well raised pureblood then focused back on Fabian. "You must be Mr.Prewett."

"Fabian Prewett," Narcissa muttered under her breath, ignoring the look of her husband. "He is Daphne's partner."

"So I have heard," he mumbled, taking his seat next to his wife. "Has he lost the ability to talk?" He queried.

Daphne gave him a dirty look, turning her head to look at Fabian who was clenching his jaw as hard as he could, "Do you ever stop being an arse, Lucius?" Daphne asked as his eyebrows went up in surprise.

"I have not lost my ability to talk, thank you for worrying, Malfoy," he spat, forcing a smile and Daphne wasn't sure but she could have sworn she saw Narcissa laugh. "Thank you for inviting us, Narcissa. It is lovely."

"No need to thank me," she answered, putting her glass down. "You might become family after all. It is only right for you to meet us."

Fabian gave her a last smile as the food approached. By the end of the dinner, Narcissa couldn't keep her laughs in to Lucius' annoyance, she was laughing so hard that Daphne almost saw the little girl who she used to be. Not many people made her laugh that way, only two: Andromeda and Sirius. Daphne guessed that ever since they both stepped away from this life, she hadn't been much joyful–well, not as joyful as she told everyone she was.

Narcissa took the advantage of being alone with Daphne to approach her, "I am sorry that Lucius is so–"

"Lucius?"

"Well, yes," she snorted quietly. "He does not like Fabian that much but he will be nice considering he is your partner," she promised softly, kissing the side of Daphne's head.

Daphne sunk a little in the sofa, giving Narcissa a puzzled look as she walked to the dresser and pulled something out of the drawer, "I wanted to tell you something but I wanted to be sure," she started softly.

"Of course," Daphne reassured.

"I went to St Mungos to be sure," she repeated, then turned around and handed her a paper.

Daphne read it silently, her eyes widening as she reached that special part, "So, you really are with..."

"Yes, yes! I am with child," she said excitedly, covering her mouth as she smiled crazily. "The nurse said I was around four months, which is almost half. They also said they think it might be a boy," she whispered, sitting down next to Daphne.

Daphne took Narcissa's hands in hers and kissed them softly, "Oh, Cissa," she breathed out. "I am so happy for you," she cooed quietly. "This is...this is brilliant, Cissa and a boy! How perfect is this."

"I couldn't ask for anything better," she told Daphne softly, her hand caressing her stomach. "I have to thank you for helping me in the beginning. I would thank Regulus bu—"

Regulus. His death hadn't quite sunk in yet, besides she didn't think people thought of him dead. Most of them just reckoned he had enough of the life and went away, after all many did in this family. But, he was dead and she couldn't bring him back. Perhaps at some point, she was going crazy but she found herself browsing through the Restricted Section, hoping to find a glimpse of a book that would help her bring him back.

But...but he was dead. A firm hand on her shoulder brought her back to reality and her eyes landed on Fabian and Narcissa who were sharing a concerned look.

"I was just talking about our cousin, Regulus," Narcissa told Fabian as he grimaced quietly. "It seemed as if she disconnected from Earth."

Fabian cleared his throat, making up an excuse, "She does not get enough sleep," he said, forcing a soft laugh. "I've told her this many times but she won't listen."

Narcissa seemed to buy the lie and answered him, "Stubborn, isn't she?"

He laughed, rubbing soft circles on her shoulder, doing his best to bring her back, "You don't say."

"I'm sorry," Daphne croaked out.

Narcissa smiled widely, "No worries, Daph!"

When Fabian and Daphne made it home, it was late and the moon was already high in the sky. A full moon. It made her wonder if Remus was alright, wherever he was. Sirius had vaguely shared his worries concerning his partner and she sometimes itched to ask Dumbledore where he had gone. Surely, he knew since he kept telling Sirius and James that he was alright.

Before she knew it, they had reached the bedroom. Fabian stopped with a smile, looking up and he let out a breathy laugh. "What is thi—"

"Mistletoe," she cut him off with a chuckle. "It is a muggle tradition—"

"Ah, I've heard of it!" He exclaimed, playing along. "Is it the one where they snog under that little branch?" He queried as she snorted but nodded nevertheless.

"Is it snogging now?"

He shrugged, "Well, I might have forgotten the tradition," he lied, cupping her face and leaning down to kiss her lips softly. As expected, Daphne melted into the kiss. "See, I'd say snogging is better than an innocent kiss, don't you think?"

"Maybe."

They both chuckled as she pecked his lips one last time, walking past him to get to the bedroom. She heard the floor cracking and turned on her heels to see Fabian on one knee, holding a blue box.

"Fab, is it one of you jokes because if yes, I mi—"

He cut her off, clearing his throat, "Daphne Rosier, will you do me the honour of marrying me?"

"Come on, Fab," she whined. "I love you but you are not funny," she mumbled.

He shook his head, "I am not joking, love. I'm just...I'm merely asking you to become my wife," he said with an innocent shrug. Daphne gaped at him, glancing between him and the box. "I was enthusiastic to ask you but now I'm mostly scared," he added nervously.

"You tosser!" She exclaimed, pulling him to his feet and wrapping her arms around his neck. Before he could utter another word, she went on. "Of course I will bloody marry you!"

Fabian pulled away, sliding the ring on her finger and as soon as he was done, he leaned down to kiss her lips. Daphne didn't feel once bad for saying yes because after a year, she was sure of herself that Fabian was all she needed. He was her breath of fresh air in the morning, her sunshine during the day and her star at night. He was her everything.

...

New Years' eve came faster than expected. Fabian and Daphne hadn't left the house that much, the two of them were much going through a lavender haze, as if they were back to the early stage of their relationship. Back when Daphne blushed whenever she felt his eyes on her or when Fabian would feel his breath cut short whenever she smiled at him.

"Alright, lovers, it is time to get up!" Sirius' voice echoed through Daphne's flat as the front door slammed close. "I–we haven't seen any of you in a while!" He then whined, sitting down on the sofa.

Daphne groaned, bringing up the sheets to cover her naked body and Fabian merely chuckled, kissing her forehead. He then sat up and Daphne watched as he flexed his back muscles while he put his pants on.

"Fucking finally!" Sirius groaned, hearing footsteps. He turned his head to see Fabian shirtless and cackled. "Rough night, mate?"

Fabian shrugged, "I wouldn't say rough, Sirius," he responded, leaning against the kitchen counter as he handed Daphne's cousin a cup of tea with some drops of firewhisky, which were always very appreciated by Sirius. "How come you are here so early?"

"Well, I am an early bird! What can I say?" Seeing Fabian wasn't phased, he continued. "It's New Years Eve."

"Shit, already?" Fabian's eyes widened. To be honest, he had been quite disconnected from the world for a few days. "Have you seen Gideon?"

Sirius frowned, "Yeah, yesterday actually. He was shopping for Molly," he told him. "Bloody hell, how long have you two been shagging?"

"Days," Daphne chirped in as Sirius made a disgusted face. "Hello, Sirius," she said softly, kissing his cheek.

"Hello, cousin," he answered. "Is there a reason for you two to shag endlessly?"

She snorted, "Love?"

"Did Cissa slip you something or–"

"Cissa is well, thank you for asking," she answered, cutting off and standing next to Fabian as his hand slid around her waist. "Oh and she is pregnant," Daphne added as Sirius gasped loudly. "What?"

"Is that a family heirloom on your finger?" He exclaimed loudly, his eyes not leaving the ring. Then he looked up at Fabian, still gasping. "You proposed to Daphne?"

"Er," he paused, realising there was not really a need to hide it. "Yes, yes I did."

"And you said yes? You, who used to claim how independent you were?" He said in shock.

"Yes."

"That is–that is bloody amazing," he told them, pulling them both into a hug. "Just wait until I tell Remus!"

"Sirius," Daphne snorted. "Calm down!"

"It's just that I'm so happy for you, Daph. Really," he admitted softly. "He's going to be an amazing husband, besides he's rather hot too. I know many ladies who would have been willing to say yes if you had said no."

Fabian laughed, shaking his head, "Wanker."

"Congratulations are in order," he then said. The couple thanked him as he returned a smile. "Oh, I almost forgot but originally, I came here to tell you that Molly changed the time of the dinner. It's six instead of seven. She reckons the boys won't be able to sleep early otherwise," he rolled his eyes. "By the way, Prewett, you'll tell your lovely sister to stop forbidding me to be intoxicated at dinners and parties. She says I drink too much."

"Is she wrong?" Fabian arched an eyebrow, waiting for an answer but Sirius preferred to shake his head to say no then waved at them.

The two of them shared a laugh before Daphne tip-toed to kiss him leaving him eager for more, but he stopped himself recalling that it was New Years Eve and they needed to get to Molly's early or she would have his head.

"Should we tell everyone tonight?" Daphne queried, walking out of the shower. "I feel like it is the right time."

"Then, let's announce it tonight," he smiled. "Are you sure you want to do this with James and Lily in the room?"

Daphne shrugged, "I guess I'll be nervous but I'm happy to do it tonight," she told him softly, kissing his forehead. "Besides, this family heirloom would be complicated to hide," Fabian blushed at the mention of the ring. "Why didn't you tell me it was a family heirloom?"

"You wouldn't have taken it if you knew," he admitted as she grimaced. "Am I wrong?"

"Not entirely," she answered, drawing figures on his arm. A sign she was nervous. "I never really liked family heirlooms, I don't fe–It's ridiculous, actually," she told him with a snort, stopping to talk.

"Go on," he said, nudging her.

She sighed, "I guess, I don't feel like I deserve to have such an important jewel on me," she murmured, ashamed. "I still have the mark and–" she paused, biting her lower lip. "I don't feel worthy enough to wear any family heirlooms."

"Daphn, darling," he started gently, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "You are worthy of so much more, love. As your fiancé, I won't fail to remind you that everyday," he promised her as her lips turned into a loving smile.

"You're never going to stop calling yourself my fiancé, are you?"

"I'll stop eventually," he replied as she rolled her eyes. "I will stop when I get to be called your husband."

Hitting his chest playfully, she laughed loudly and he couldn't help but feel his heart pace quickening, "You're so full of yourself, love."

Fabian simply smiled and gave her a small shrug. He truly felt like a teenager again, the way he blushed when she stared too long at him or the way his heart beat faster as her laugh echoed through their shared flat. Instead of answering like he would have done normally, he kissed her softly and told her to go get ready so they could go to Molly's.

As soon as they reached the Burrow, Daphne transfigured the ring into a simple one. Fabian didn't comment on her action because he wished to also keep it a secret until everyone was there. To no one's surprise really, Molly was already decorating the whole place to make it feel more home-y. She scolded as soon as she saw Fabian, saying that he shouldn't leave them without any news for so long then managed to give a bone crushing hug to Daphne. The children did the same, beaming with excitement at the sight of Daphne Rosier in their living room. At six, people started to arrive and Daphne hurried to go get change before anyone else came to knock on the door.

"Oh there you are," Molly smiled softly, spotting Daphne in the corridor. The red haired woman released a breath as she tried to stretch her back.

Daphne winced, "Are you alright, Molly?"

She smiled at her, nodding, "Oh yes, yes. Don't worry about me, dear. I've carried worse," she snorted, referring to the twins. "Arthur reckons it might be a boy again."

"Arthur loves boys, doesn't he?"

"He does," she nodded. "But, I'm sure he'd be delighted with a girl as well."

"Of course," Daphne hummed as Molly took the time to look at her. "Is something wrong with my dress? Is it too–"

"No, no, Merlin no! You look fabulous."

"Oh," Daphne said softly, red creeping on her cheeks. "Thank you, Molly."

As Molly was about to answer, she heard the door closing and a voice she could have recognised everywhere echoed through the Burrow. James's. She made her way downstairs and offered a smile to the couple, scanning the room for Fabian. Sadly, she couldn't set her eyes on him. She gave up once Molly asked everyone to sit around the table.

Taking her seat, she gulped and fidgeted nervously, her hands clasped tightly together. Her eyes occasionally darted towards a certain place on the table. James was among Lily and Remus, and she couldn't shake off the anxiety of his presence. Sensing her unease, Gideon made his way to his seat, which was next to her. Molly probably felt bad for separating the twins.

"How is my lovely sister-in-law?" He queried, snapping her out of her thoughts. "Fabian is coming soon, don't worry. Bill asked him to read him a bedtime story."

"I'm fine," she lied. "How are you, Gid? We haven't seen you in a long time."

"Right. I've been busy with the Order," he said lowly. "And a certain woman," he added with a wink as she snorted. "Her name's Diane, lovely woman I'll tell you that. She is a skilled herbologist."

"That is brilliant!"

Fabian appeared and made his way to her, he immediately sensed her anxiety as he reached out and gently squeezed her hand, offering a reassuring smile, "It's going to be alright, Daph," he whispered, his voice filled with warmth. "Everyone will be happy, including James."

"I just don't want a sort of scene, especially here," she explained.

"Nonsense," he replied, giving her hand a squeeze again.

He kissed her cheek as she took a deep breath and summoned her courage. With Fabian by her side, she felt at peace and safe so she watched as he took his glass and clinked it with his fork. The chatter gradually subsided as all eyes turned towards the couple.

"Dear friends and colleagues," he began, his voice carrying a mixture of nervousness and excitement. "Daphne and I have an announcement to make. We are thrilled to share with the lot of you that we are engaged."

Murmurs of surprise and delight swept through the people around the table. Whispers filled the air and Daphne could see many smiles gracing the faces of many. Her heart swelled with a mix of joy and trepidation. Her eyes locked with James's and to her surprise, she saw a genuine smile across his face–a smile that held no trace of bitterness or resentment. Lily seemed to wear a similar smile.

Then, finally, applause erupted, filling the room with cheers. Many people rose on their feet to congratulate them. James approached Daphne and Fabian, a genuine smile adorning his face. "Congratulations, both of you," he said, extending a hand. "Lily says congratulations as well. Pregnancy is quite hard and getting here was harder than I thought it would."

The couple shook his hand as gratitude shined in her eyes. It somehow felt like a moment of healing and forgiveness, a testament to the power of maturity and understanding. Crossing eyes with Lily, she gave her a grateful smile and Lily gave her a little wave.

Amidst the celebration, Fabian wrapped his arm around Daphne, pulling her close to him. Daphne allowed herself to close her eyes, melting into his embrace as she thought how lucky she was.

"I'm happy I've found you," she said tenderly, her face buried in his chest.

"So am I, love."

—————
authors note, ive decided to add the dates at the beginning so it gets less confusing for y'all?
also don't get me wrong but fabian and daphne 😩😩😩