Who: Justin and Ernie (and other Finch-Fletchleys) What: Breakfast at Finch-Fletchley manor after Ernie's worse-than-usual nightmare Where: FF Manor When: November 14, 8AM Rating: Bad language and sexytalks (this isJustin's family) "For the last time, Sarah, I didn't steal your lipstick," Justin replied across the table to his sister. "I know I used the last one, but I swear, nothing since. And if you accuse me one more time, I'm going to hit you with this bloody roll."
"Please, no rolls," said Catherine, Justin's sister-in-law, as she covered up her mouth. "I had a craving for them last night, and I almost burst. Justin's brother Heneage rubbed her back soothingly, but rather than concern, he merely looked down devotedly at Catherine's heavily pregnant stomach.
"I used to crave rolls with Hen," Justin's mother Margaret broke in, sounding enthusiastic despite the bags under her eyes. "With Charles it was tapioca pudding, Sarah was curry, and Justin was pumpkin anything."
Justin snorted, thinking that must have been the earliest sign that he was to be born a wizard.
"Would you like some more tea, Margaret?" the cook asked as she came by with the teapot. "You don't look like you slept well again."
"It's nothing, Mags dear. Just another nightmare."
Justin's jovial mood immediately evaporated at the reminder of his mother's 'fate'. Had Charles been at the table, rather than at his flat in London (where he stayed when Parliament was in session), he would likely have made the same complaint.
"Hey, Mags?" Justin started as the cook passed by, and attempted to think of something positive to get his mind off of things he couldn't control. "I've a friend coming for dinner in my rooms this evening. Do we have any fresh strawberries for dessert? I was thinking of that lukewarm chocolate fondue of yours for dessert."
She giggled and shook her head, sounding decades younger than her 50 years, and kissed his forehead. "Of course, dear. And don't worry about the sheets. Between you and your sister, I always make sure to have enough of that cleaner around."