May 1983

With a snap of her fingers, the fire within the kitchen hearth roared to life, flooding the large room with instant warmth. The dark stone of the floor heated below her feet and she tried her best to flatten the green tea cosey that had been refurbished into a dress.

It was early still, far too early to begin making breakfast, but she found it more and more difficult to sleep with the knowledge of who was coming back to live within the manor. He would be here today, she knew. It was why she had to go back to wearing the tea cozy instead of the dresses she had been allowed to make. The other elves were just as restless, but they stayed within their rooms.

Instead of pacing the kitchen endlessly, she decided to do a last minute walk through of the house. He was easy to anger, so it was very important that she make sure everything was squared away. Padding her way down the service hall, she made her way to the ballroom first.

Just as it had been the day before, and the day before that, it was spotless. The waxed floor seemed to ripple in the fading light of the moon. A silvery lake just waiting for the next time someone might dive in and dance upon its surface. Elegant silk hangings framed the floor to ceiling windows, each pane of glass casting a dark shadow across the lightening room. No tables or chairs were in sight, and haven’t been since the New Year’s Eve Gala. Still, she looked into every corner and alcove; just in case.

The parlor, foyer, trophy room, dining room, and music room were all just as clean as the ballroom. Both East and West galleries were in pristine condition. Dark golden frames shone next to the vibrant silver ones. Every portrait as vivid as the day it was painted, even if those inhabiting them were irritable with the light she brought with her to check.

It brought her great pleasure to be able to smirk, well-smirk as well as she could being an elf, while ignoring their rude comments. Mistress Cissy was the only reason she came to the Manor. Master Lucius had been kind enough toward her, though it was truly Little Master Draco that made Estella feel truly needed again.

Climbing the stairs, Draco’s room was her destination. Slowly opening the door, she had to stop her giggle. Walking slowly so as not to make any noise, she picked up the blanket that had been discarded carelessly before turning to look at the child. Again she had to hold in her laughter at the sight of the almost three year old sleeping on his back in the absolute middle of the low bed. His arms and legs were splayed out to take up as much room as possible, while his tiny pajama bottoms had crept up to resemble shorts more than trousers. His bright blonde hair was sticking up in every direction and his tiny hand was clenched around the tail of a stuffed dragon.

Laying the blanket over the sleeping toddler as gently as possible, she made to light the fireplace within the room. Despite the days beginning to warm, the nights could still become bone chilling.

Estella!

Her ears perked up and eyes went wide at the distress she could hear. She took one last look at the child before rushing out of the room toward her mistress. Normally, Narcissa would not call for Estella in the early morning hours. If there was ever anything she needed, Luicus was more than willing to cater to his wife. Ever the doting husband, something Estella came to respect about her mistress’ husband. Tonight, however, Lucius was away on a business trip and would not be back for another week.

Running into the bedroom, Estella looked around and began to panic when she saw the trail of blankets and sheets from the bed leading toward the bathroom. The French doors leading to the balcony were left wide open, the hangings blowing in the lazy, cool breeze flittering in from the sleeping gardens below.

“Mistress?” Estella called out, spinning on the spot.

She could see Narcissa’s wand on the ground just before she noticed the bathroom door ajar. Running forward, she slammed the door open further and saw her mistress kneeling on the floor in front of the toilet. That was not good at all.

“Oh, Mistress!”

“Estella.” She groaned out while wiping her mouth. “Estella, where did you order the meat that we had last night?”

“It’s the same places we always gets it.” The elf reassured her while helping Narcissa lean against the wall. “Cooks the same way and everything.”

Narcissa hummed in understanding, closing her eyes. Estella rushed to wet a cloth and placed it upon her mistress’s forehead. Once this was done, she ran a quick diagnostic spell and gasped at the result. The sound of shock made Narcissa’s eyes fly back open, fear as clear as day within the light blue irises.

“What is it?”

“Mistress,” Estealla grinned as she clapped, “Mistress is pregnant. Mistress will have another young one.”

“Are-are you certain?” She asked, her hand flying to her stomach.

“Very.” Estella nodded eagerly, her ears flopping around her head.

June 1983

Narcissa walked gracefully around the small ballroom with a pleasant smile upon her face. She greeted guests and laughed when appropriate, all the while she had to consciously keep herself from grabbing at her stomach. She was barely three months along, and she was terrified something might go wrong. There would be random cramps that would disappear as quickly as they appeared and she had to talk herself out of spending every waking moment under the care of a healer.

Never did she think she would be blessed with another child. Not after everything she and Lucius had been through before she had Draco.

“You look like you’re ready to set everyone in here on fire.” Lucius whispered in her ear from behind.

“It may happen.” She laughed as he moved in front of her and held out a glass of wine.

“This might help.” He smirked, “I know it’s helped me get through more than one of Goyle’s terrible jokes.”

“Thank you, but I can’t.”

“Can’t?”

“I, ah, I was going to wait to tell you.” She said and grabbed his hand to pull him further away from the rest of the party. “Today was meant to be Draco’s day.”

“Cissa, what’s wrong?”

“Nothing. Absolutely nothing.” She smiled and finally let her hand fall to her stomach. “Lucius…I’m pregnant.”

The two wine glasses he had fell to the ground, shattering and spilling wine all over the floor.

With a fond smile on her face, Estella swooped in and cleaned up the spilled wine quickly while Lucius moved to kiss and hug his wife. Once the mess was cleaned, Estella moved off to the side and watched as the couple danced, Lucius looking at Narcissa as if she hung the moon and stars.

October 1983

Narcissa Malfoy was placed on bedrest for the last two months of her pregnancy. For the most part she was healthy, as was the child. It was her history of miscarriages that concerned the healers. Ever since, there had been a constant rotation of elves checking in on her.

Dobby had been given the task of taking care of Master Abraxas-a job Estella was grateful she did not need to take. Though when Dobby would come in with burns on his hands and blood running down his face, Estella felt terrible. She would help him as best she could, but if Abraxas saw the wounds healed too quickly it would only anger him more.

When she wasn’t at Narcissa’s side, Estella was placed in charge of watching and teaching little Draco. He was a smart and curious child–always asking questions and trying to go places he shouldn’t. He would visit his mother and father constantly and ask about the baby every time.

The first time he was able to feel his sibling move within his mother’s belly, he didn’t stop giggling for ten minutes. A sound the baby seemed to love since they became even more active every time they heard it.

Now though, Estella was in the ballroom trying to entertain two three year olds while one’s mother and the other’s Godmother gave birth. Little Theo was quiet. Observant. He was as curious, if not more so, than Draco. He just went about finding the answers differently. Where Draco would simply ask, Theo would test things out himself. It did not always end well when Draco had the question and Theo had the will to figure it out. Which was exactly why Estella was the elf in charge of them during this event.

“Where’s my mum, Tella?” Draco asked with his ear to the door of the ballroom. “Is she okay?”

“She’s giving birth, little Master.” Estella said, pulling on the boy’s arm so he would get away from the door.

“I wanna see her!” He pulled back and tried to go for the door.

“Me too!” Theo said.

“Estella was told to keep you here. You are to stay here.”

“No!” Draco yelled and pulled on the door.

Thankfully, Estella anticipated him wanting to leave and had locked the doors and windows. Though it didn’t deter him from yelling and pulling on the handle even more. It was not often the boy was told no. Theo, though he was quieter, was just as bad.

“I wanna see Aunt Cissy.” He stomped his foot.

“Little Master and Little Mister are not allowed out of the ballroom.” Estella stepped between Draco and the door.

This did not go as well as Estella had hoped . The boy stomped his foot and crossed his arms, an angry pout cutting across his face. Before Estella could do anything more Draco began to wail. She tried to calm him down, but he only got louder and louder. When Theo realized that no one was coming in, he joined. The two of them creating an orchestra of cries and yells.

As their anger, sadness, and confusion escalated, storms clouds began to form above them. Estella’s eyes went wide and she tried with renewed vigor to quiet the boys. Her pleas for them to quiet down, her promises of bringing them sweets, her insistence that they could leave soon did nothing but make it worse. Soon, hurricane force winds began to whip through the ballroom and rain began to pelt her skin, soaking her from ears to toes.

“Little Sirs!” Estella called out as lightning began to crack across the ceiling. One bolt cracked through the black clouds and struck the middle of the ballroom forcing Estella away from the two boys who stood directly in the center of the storm, untouched. Black marks mimicking lightning fanned out below their feet, while the south side of the room caught on fire. The rain coming down in heavy sheets did nothing to subdue the rising flames. Smoke began to fill up the room, making it even more difficult for Estella to see.

She got to her feet and tried to reach them again, only to be struck back by a wave of water. Wave after wave hit her with every breath Theo took, each one accented by a crack of lightning brightening the room. With the last wave of water, Estella was slammed into the side of the fireplace and hit her head so hard she began to bleed.

“Tella!” Draco yelled out with another crack of lightning.

He ran to her, lightning skirting across the ceiling, but none going below the clouds created. Theo had stopped crying and was looking on as he wiped away his tears while sniffling.

“I is fine, Little Master.” Estella assured him and waved her fingers over the side of her head to stop the bleeding.

Draco sat back on his heels and sniffled as the thunderstorm began to clear. “I’m sorry, Tella.”

“Oh, it’s okay Little Master.” She sat up and patted his arms. “I’s understands. You can see Mistress soon. Estella promises.”

Several hours later, Estella was able to bring Draco up to his mother’s bedside. The healers had cleaned up everything and made sure both baby and mother were in good health. Waiting at the door with little Theo, she watched as Draco walked a few steps into the room and stopped.

“What’s her name?” Draco asked, his small hands twisting behind his back as he looked upon his mother.

“Cassiopeia Alethea Malfoy.” She answered, “Do you want to meet her?” Narcissa asked gently when Draco approached the side of her bed.

“Yes!” Draco pulled himself up as high as he could to look over the edge of his mother’s bed. “She’s so little.” He said in awe as Narcissa moved the blanket away from her face.

Cool, blue eyes stared up at him as white blonde wisps of hair escaped a cap. She blinked a couple times before giving him a large smile, making Draco giggle.

“She’s my sister?” Draco looked over at his smiling father who nodded. “Always?” He looked to his mother.

“Always.”

Draco reached out his hand and giggled when Cassi wrapped her fingers around his. “She’s like a princess! I’m always going to look out for you.” Draco told her. “Promise.”

Narcissa and Lucius smiled at each other as Draco continued to coo at his younger sister. It had been generations since the Malfoy line had more than one child. More than one heir.

Abraxas had made it painfully obvious his opinions in regard to the situation. He had gone as far as to say that it likely wouldn’t last anyway. That Malfoys only ever needed one heir. Having more was unnecessary. Lucius and he had gotten into several rows about that. If not for the family magic attached to the Manor and Abraxas, Luicus would have tossed him out several times over. It didn't matter that he was Lucius’ father.

Narcissa smiled, and closed her eyes while Draco was telling Cassi all about something. She was far too tired to try to decipher the words. She must have actually dozed off because she was startled awake when the bundled weight that was the baby was lifted from her hands. Her eyes snapped open and she saw Lucius was smiling down at her. Cassi in his arms.

“Get some rest. I’ll look after these three.” He kissed her forehead before placing a hand on Draco’s shoulder to lead him out of the room.

December 1983

Snow drifted down in a continuous sheet Christmas morning. A continuing dance from the night before leaving the entirety of the grounds in a thick layer of white. Pure and peaceful as the newest addition to the Malfoy family. Estella moved around the ballroom as the sun glistened through the falling drifts making sure the tree and all the presents were perfect.

It was going to be a wonderful holiday. Estella would make sure of it. With Abraxas in France, they would be no arguments or insinuations. No glares and no beatings. Dobby would be free to play with the little ones and we would be able to wear our clothes we worked so hard to make. Yes, it would be perfect.

“Draco?” Narcissa’s voice floated down the stairs, her panic causing ice to flood through Estella’s body. “Draco! Where are-” Estella popped to the top of the stairs and saw her Mistress stop at Cassi’s door. “It’s Christmas, don’t you want to open presents?” She asked.

Estella moved behind Narcissa and saw little Draco sitting cross legged in front of his sister’s crib a finger pressed to his lips. “When she wakes up.” He said simply turning back to look at her.

Cassi was sleeping peacefully on her stomach, just as Estella had left her almost two hours before. Her little mouth was opened and the sound of gentle breathing could be heard as Narcissa moved to sit next to Draco. She wrapped and arm around him and pulled him close before kissing the top of his head.

“I’m so proud of you, Draco.” She whispered. “You are such a good big brother.”

“Really?” He looked up at his mother, his eyes bright with the praise.

“Really.” She smiled. “You are always so thoughtful of her. It’s a pure kind of love that few get to experience. I am so happy you two have each other.”

“I’m going to keep her safe.” Draco looked back toward the crib.

His words made Narcissa’s brows furrow and Estella move closer. There was such determination in the words, it was concerning why he might believe she would need protecting.

“Why do you think she needs protected?” Narcissa brushed his hair away from his forehead.

“Grandfather is always so mad. He doesn’t like Cassi. He doesn’t talk to her. He doesn’t smile at her.” Draco frowned. “Why is he so mad?”

“Oh, Draco. My beautiful son. Your Grandfather comes from a different time. He doesn’t understand how times can change. But this is nothing for you to worry about. Especially today. What do you say we wake her up and get some breakfast?”

“Then presents?” Draco looked up with a smile.

“Then presents.” Narcissa promised.

Estella backed out of the room and headed for the kitchen to make sure breakfast would be ready as soon as the family got downstairs. Her goal for the day was to make sure the thought of having to protect Cassi from Abraxas never crosses little Draco’s mind again.

February 1984

Estella dusted off her hands and looked around the tea room proudly. The fading winter sun warmed the room to the perfect temperature while deep green vines weaved and wound their way around the glass that made up an entire wall. Within the room, magic allowed roses and lilies to bloom, filling the air with a gentle floral aroma to go with the new Spring teas. A white wrought iron table sat in the very middle of the room with matching chairs. Each adorned with a cushion with a floral design to make the iron more comfortable. Upon the table sat a wide area of finger foods, all with accents of pink or red to contrast the white and green around them.

Overall, Estella was happy with the way the Valentine’s Day tea was looking. She had originally suggested skipping the tea this year since little Cassi was still keeping her up at night, but Narcissa refused. It was a tradition, afterall.

As Estella was walking through the garden to make sure everything was manicured and presentable, she heard voices a hedge over. She was about to go and shoo them away from the still sleeping garden when she heard what they were talking about.

“Malfoys don’t have daughters, Lucius.”

“Obviously you’re wrong, Father.” Estella could hear the sneer in his voice, “Cassi was born, and is healthy.”

“She must have cheated on you, son. Don’t you see. Never has there been a female born to the Malfoy line. It doesn’t happen.”

“It seems times are changing. Cassi is mine. And the next time you insinuate that my wife has been with another will be the last time.”

Estella held in her gasp and rushed away. It was not polite or proper to listen in on her Master’s conversations. Especially when it was about such a sensitive topic.

“I wanna be him.” Theo pouted. “You were him last time.”

“Cassi is my sister. I have to be him.”

“No…” Theo crossed his arms. “Cassi can be a different princess.”

“Nope. She’s Morgan, I’m Merlin.”

“Fine!” The stomped his foot, “But I’m saving her!”

“Fine.”

Estella watched as little Cassi laid on her blanket, laughing while she watched the boys in front of her play. They had sticks in their hands, waving them around like the wands and shouting out made up words they believed to be spells. Theo would roll and Draco would duck. Every couple of minutes, one of them would turn toward Cassi and make a face or blow a raspberry to make her laugh before returning back to their battle.

When they were tired out, the boys came and laid on either side of Cassi and gave her their undivided attention. She giggled and and smacked her hands on the ground when they did something she liked until she began to yawn. The girl tried so hard to fight sleep, but she lost in the end. The boys were not far behind in the warm afternoon light, leaving the three children sleeping peacefully while their mothers navigated the Valentine’s Day tea, playing the part of polite high society wives.

April 1984

Dust never had the opportunity to settle among the books within the massive library, but that didn’t stop Estella from moving through each and every one to make sure. To be truthful, she enjoyed the task which is why she scheduled herself the chore at least once a week. It gave her a chance to fix any books that needed fixing. Skim through albums or journals of the family. Little Draco loved the library. Always has. Ever since Cassi was born, he would insist her come with him so they could lay together while Estella read from the many stories upon his shelf of books.

She smiled at the book of fairytales Draco loved and set it aside. Little Theo would be here soon, and with it raining outside, that meant the little misters would be camping in the library for most of the day. A smile came over her face and she pulled out two more books she knew they would love before moving to the next shelf.

That was when the door of the library opened and angry voices followed. Estella froze out of sight while her Master and his father continued their argument.

“It makes you look weak!” Abraxas’s weathered voice rang through the massive room as the heavy doors snapped closed. “You’ve skipped three board meetings not to mention the Wizingamont assembly.”

“The company is more than self sufficient. I went there last week. Just because I’ve had a daughter does not mean I am weak father.”

“You did not have a daughter. Malfoys don’t have daughters. You mark my words, it will not end well for you if you keep her.”

“It seems times are changing, Father, because Cassi is mine. Narcissa has not been with anyone else and I will not be getting rid of her. You need to learn to live with the fact that I have two children. I am not you.”

“You’re a pathetic excuse for a Pureblood. For a Malfoy!” Abraxas yelled. His rough voice echoing off the high ceilings. “Get rid of it. Raise Draco the way he should be!”

“Get. Out.” Lucius hissed.

“Are you mad? You can’t kick me out of my hou-”

“This is my house. You lost control of it years ago. So, get out. You are not welcome here until you can accept that I have a daughter and that Cassi will remain a part of this family.”

“You will regret this.” Abrasas hissed.

Estella covered her mouth to keep the squeak of surprise escaping her when the doors of the library flew open. She could not Apparate out, for it would cause too much of a commotion. She would have to stay until Lucius left. It was only moments later that she heard her master slump into a chair and release a heavy sigh. She dared to peak around the shelf and saw him run his hands through his hair. She really should find a way to leave. There was a servant entrance to the Library-but it was on the other side of the room. She might be able to find her way over there without notice.

She began to walk that way when she heard the desk being tossed. She flinched and crouched down, covering her ears, until her Master finished venting his frustration. It seemed that she was going to have far more to clean in the library than expected today.

“Draco!” Narcissa called, laughter lighting up her tone. “Draco, Theo is here!” She laughed as Draco’s small footsteps echoed through the corridor.

“Estella can take little Mister’s coat.” Estella said gently holding out her hands.

Thaddeus Nott ripped Theo’s coat off and tossed it at Estella. “Where is Lucius?”

Narcissa addressed the man politely, meanwhile Estella’s attention was on Theo. His eyes were red, tear stains streaking down his cheeks. His gaze didn’t leave his feet, even as Draco came thumping down the stairs. Normally the little boy’s shoulders were back, and his chin held high. Even in his father’s presence. But today something was different. Drastically different.

Estella heard Narcissa suck in a sharp breath, making her pull her eyes away from the two boys. Her mistress had a hand on her heart, the other over her mouth before she pulled it down and schooled her features.

“I’m so sorry for your loss.” She said stiffly. “Lucius will be in his study.”

Without another word, the man pushed past Narcissa and made his way toward Lucius. Estella stood quietly with Theo’s small coat in her hand while her Mistress knelt down and pulled Theo into a tight hug. The boy’s shoulders began to shake, a muffled sob sneaking out of his mouth. Draco looked on in concern while his mother threaded her fingers through Theo’s hair.

“It’ll be okay, Theo.” She whispered into his ear before kissing his forehead. “You will be okay.”

Estella held out a bony hand for Draco who took it without question and walked slowly toward his friend. Once the boy was about to pull away from Narcissa, he wiped his eyes and nose and followed Estella up the stairs to the play area. She left the two there while she went to gather a freshly changed Cassi and brought her into the room.

Upon seeing Cassi, Theo’s face lit up and he moved to hug her instantly. He muttered something to her before he kissed her blond hair. The afternoon passed in a more cheerful manner, and Estella was more than happy to read them story after happy story. Even if it wasn’t in their normal spot within the library. Even though it had been cleaned since Lucius’s discussion with his father, the play area seemed a better choice for the day.

Theo remained at Malfoy Manor for the next week without so much as a whisper from his father. It did not seem to bother the boy much, despite him crying for his mother a couple nights. Narcissa was able to calm him down, however, and he was asleep as quickly as he woke. Cassi truly seemed to be the brightness in Theo’s day, however. Every morning, he would run to her door with Draco on his heels and every night he would make sure to wish her good night before being ushered to bed himself.

May 1984

“Shh, it’s okay little one.” Estella combed her fingers through the baby’s hair in an attempt to settle her down. Narcissa had just been in the room to feed her, so Estella did not want to have to wake her Mistress again so soon.

She began humming and eventually it soothed the child back to sleep. With a smile, Estella tiptoed her way out of the room and made her way down the darkened hallway toward her sleeping quarters. Along the way, she stopped to check on Draco and found him sleeping with his head pushed against the footboard while his body was halfway off the bed. His stuffed dragon still firmly in his hand. Shaking her head, Estella moved his back onto the bed and scooted him away from the footboard. She would not risk him waking up by turning him back the proper way.

The morning progressed as any other day. Estella helped the other elves make breakfast full of everyone’s favorites. Even Abraxas got his poached eggs benedict using muffins and Canadian bacon. Estella watched as the older man cut into the eggs with his fork and held back a shiver of disgust as the yoak leaked out onto the white plate.

Once breakfast was concluded, Lucius left to take care of some business with the family company and the Ministry. Narcissa was going to be busy organizing Draco’s fourth birthday party. Estella had a list of chores to take care of while Cassi was being cared for by the nanny and Draco was being entertained by his governess and his lessons for the day. Abraxas tended to stay to himself, migrating between his wing, the study next to the the library, or the gardens. Dobby was usually not far from him, used as a beating boy whenever he would have an angry thought. Which seemed to be more and more often based on how many injuries he would have coming into the sleeping quarters each evening.

Thus far, Abraxas seemed to be in a decent mood, so he hasn’t called for Dobby yet. Leaving him free to help in the kitchens where he preferred to be. Estella cleaned the breakfast room before heading for the garden to feed the peacocks. She hated them, they were always so loud, but she was one of the few elves they would allow close enough to make sure they were cared for.

The days were getting longer as the Summer Solstice neared, so Estella took her time outside. Even made excuses to explore the blooming landscapes. Her favorite spot was the sitting area next to the fountain. There were trellis all around with the most potent Wiltshire Ripples she could find. Dark purples mixed with bright whites upon their petals against a comforting green to make them as much of a centerpiece to the garden as the water feature.

Once making sure the foul birds were well, she followed the smooth path and let her long fingers trail against the crisp water. The stark difference in temperature caused a large smile to break across her face as she closed her eyes. The breeze rustled the decorative ribbons she had tied around her tea cozy, tickling her knees and shoulder. Brilliant rays of sunlight glistened off the rippling surface of the water, causing the illusion of tiny diamonds being scattered across the tranquil blue bottom.

She really could spend all day out here. Especially knowing that the children are well looked after and her Master and Mistress were happy. The only wrench in her relaxed mood was the older Malfoy. Just the very thought of him made Estella’s stomach churn. She had heard so many conversations over the last months that have made her very nervous about what he might do. Especially when Mister Nott was visiting.

Estella shot a glare toward his end of the Manor trying to express all of her ire his way. She knew it was pointless. There was absolutely nothing she could do being a house elf. Luckily she was the house elf of her Mistress, coming from the line of the Most Noble House of Black house elves, Abraxas has no control or power over her.

As she continued to stare up at the man’s wing, she noticed no movement within his rooms. Frowning, she headed inside. If he was not within his wing, that meant he was holed up in the study and that was somewhere Estella did not enjoy him staying. That was were her Master kept his most private books that she knew he never wanted anyone to read. She would come across him writing at times. He never got angry at her knowing she was simply completing her duties, but he made it clear she was to never touch them. That no one was ever allowed to touch them.

The trust of Lucius was something she cherished dearly, and she would never do anything to destroy that. Estella made a few stops along the way to talk to other elves or to clean up something she saw, but before she was able to make her way to the study, her Mistress found her.

“Oh, Estella.” Narcissa smiled, a large book of fabrics in her hand. “It’s a lovely day outside, I’m surprised to find you in.”

“Estella is just making sures everythings is taken care of, Mistress.”

“That works out actually, would you go help the nanny. It seems Cassi is unable to be soothed and I have a meeting in a few minutes.”

“Of course, Mistress. Estella will go there nows.”

Narcissa smiled with a nod before heading toward the travel room for the Floo. A few minutes later, Estella found the nanny walking the length of Cassi’s room while the girl cried.

“Ms Catherine,” Estella called out and watched as the older woman turned and sighed. “Estella can help.” She held out her hands and the woman made her way over quickly.

As soon as Cassi landed in Estella’s hands, she felt how cold the child was. “Little Mistress is cold!” Estella yelled out, angry at the woman. She yanked the blanket off the back of the rocker. She wrapped it around Cassi quickly before casting a weak warming charm over her.

“Don’t you yell at me, elf!” Catherine yelled. “Disrespectful creature. You think I don’t know how to care for a child?” She smacked Estella in the back of the head.

“Ms Catherine is not Estella’s Mistress. Yous will not harm Estella.” She warned before leaving the room with Cassi in hand. The girl was still crying, as if the warmth of the blanket and spell had done nothing. This wasn’t the first time Estella found Cassi in such a state. The girl seemed to always run cold, but that wasn’t what seemed to bother her. If she had to go too long without seeing Draco or Theo then she would get very upset until she was able to see him again.

This was why Estella instantly headed toward the library where Draco was likely going through his lessons. Cassi began to coo in her hands and as soon as the doors opened, she began to wiggle around in search for her brother.

“Cassi!” Draco called out excitedly and ran to her, completely disregarding the tutor that had been instructing him on the proper way to hold a quill and how much ink to add.

“Careful young one.” Estella laughed while setting the baby day. “Estella is sorry to interrupts, Misses Catherine was having a hard times with little miss.”

“That’s fine. He was due for a break anyway.” The woman nodded and informed Draco she would be back in fifteen minutes to pick back up where they left off before she made her way to get a cup of tea from the kitchen.

Estella watched the children giggle at each other after making funny noises with a smile on her face. Her Mistress has always wanted more than one child, but after so many complications when trying to have Draco, she didn’t think it would ever happen again. So they didn’t try. The miracle that was their first born would be enough for them. Narcissa and Lucius would always go on about how lucky they were to have Draco. But now, looking at how happy Draco was while entertaining his sister, Estella was beyond happy for her Mistress and Master. They were good and caring parents. Always kind to Estella and the other elves. Even Dobby and his inability to keep his opinions to himself.

The doors of the Library opened, causing the her to turn. When she saw Abraxas, her ears dropped. Moving quickly, she scooped up Cassi and patted Draco’s arm while telling him they could play later.

“ELF!” Abraxas’ grovely voice rang through the room. “GET OVER HERE ELF!”

Holding her chin up, she wrapped the blanket around Cassi a little tighter and moved into the man’s view. “Master Abraxas calls for Estella?”

“What is this I hear about you yelling at a witch?” His face was the color of a tomato, his white hair coming loose from its ribbon and falling into his bright blue eyes.

“Mistress asks Estella to help with the baby. Estella was just following orders.”

He began to stomp toward her, raising his walking stick. The nanny was standing triumphantly at the door of the library, a smirk on her face as the man came closer. Estella knew she couldn’t do anything to keep Abraxas from harming her. He was the first master of the Manor after all and Estella belonged to the manor now that her Mistress married into the Malfoy family. So, she did the only thing she could do. She turned and hunched over the baby in her arms and closed her eyes while the man smashed his cane repeatedly over her back and head. He tried to grad at her arms, but Estella held firm onto Cassi to make sure the child was not injured.

“Gran’fa’?” Draco’s voice was a confused whisper.

Abraxas stopped his assault, though his cane was still poised to strike. “Where is your tutor boy?”

“I’m here.” Came the stern voice of the older woman. Her lips had formed a tight line with her deep red hair pulled back into a tight bun at the base of her neck. “If you’ll be so kind as to refrain from abusing the staff in front of the children, that would be appreciated.” She held out a hand for Draco to take and gestured for Estella to walk out infront of her.

“You’re still an employee to this family. You’ll do well to remember that, Miss Carter.”

“Duly noted.” She sniffed and left Abraxas fuming in the library.

“Thanks you, Misses. He will be angrys, though.”

“Hopefully we can put off his anger long enough for him to forget.” She said gently and smiled at Draco. “How about we go outside and work on your counting?”

“Can Cassi come?”

“If Estella wants, then yes, of course she can. If you promise to pay attention.”

“I promise!” Draco grinned.

The afternoon passed without further incident and Narcissa came back to a very tired Draco and a sleeping Cassi. Estella was busy dusting the mantel when the fire came to live, depositing Lucius into the room. He was just beginning to greet her with Abraxas stormed in, his face still as red as it had been earlier.

Lucius spared one more glance at Estella before he sighed and greeted his father. Without another word spoken, however, Abraxas began to assault Estella with renewed anger.

“Father!” Lucius snatched the cane out of the man’s hand. “What is the meaning of this?”

“This creature defied not just me, but another witch today!” He growled, spit flying as he bared his teeth. “You’re too soft on her. Too soft on all of them!” He reached out toward Estella but Lucius stepped in his path. “Move boy.”

“These are my servants and my house, father. You’re being welcomed here as a guest, nothing more.” Lucius said cooly. “If you cannot conduct yourself with some humility, you will no longer be welcomed within our house.”

“That girl has made you too soft. Draco deserves to have a better upbringing.”

“Your opinion is noted.”

Abraxas narrowed his eyes at his son before spinning on his heel and making his way toward his wing. The two of the stood in silence for a few moments before Lucius turned to address Estella, wondering what exactly happened. It didn’t take long for her to explain about finding Cassi freezing and extremely upset while under the care of the nanny. Telling her master she took the baby to see Draco instantly which seemed to cheer her up drastically. When she answered all of her questions, he sent her on her way to finish her chores.

While she was checking the corridor outside Abraxas’s bedroom, she heard the man talking. Curious who he might be speaking to at such a late hour, Estella toed her way toward the door and leaned in to listen.

“She needs to be taken care of. You’ve taken too long already.” Abraxas sneered.

“Forgive me, Abraxas, but killing a child-a baby is not necessarily high on my to do list.” The voice drawled.

“I’m paying you enough for it to be first on her bloody list, Nott.”

“My grandson seems to have taken a liking to her, it makes things…difficult.”

“Fine! I’ll do it myself!”

Estella covered her mouth to keep the gasp from escaping her as she backed away quickly. Looking around, she saw the hall was still clear, so she took off running. She ignored the call of Dobby as she passed him on the stairs and rushed into Cassi’s room without so much as checking if the child was asleep.

She found Narcissa leaning over the edge of the crib with a smile on her face while watching her daughter sleep and Estella felt her heart break. She let the small sob escape her at that moment, unable to hold it in any longer.

Cassi was not safe.

Not here. Not with Abraxas. Not with any of the Purebloods. Not now, and probably never in the future. Narcissa turned to look at Estella and tensed. A fat tear rolled from Estella’s eye as she moved into the room. Peeking into the crib, she saw Cassi was sound asleep on her stomach, with her but in the air.

“Estella, what is wrong?”

She couldn’t pull her eyes away from the peaceful child. Bright blonde curls poked out of her pale head and her dark lashes fluttered as she dreamed. Her tiny, heart shaped mouth twitched and a small bubble formed before instantly popping. Estella knew she had to do anything and everything she could to protect the child, but she didn’t know if her Mistress and Master would be willing.

“Mistress Cissy,” Estella started in a whisper. She looked up and found Narcissa had knelt next to her, “Young Miss is not safe.” She shook her head as she uttered the words slowly.

Narcissa reached out and grabbed Estella’s small hands in comfort, “You have to take her.” It wasn’t a question.

A million pieces of Estella’s heart crashed into the floor of her chest where they only shattered more. So far beyond repair she had no idea how Narcissa was able to say a phrase so calmly.

Releasing Estealla’s hands, Narcissa scooped Cassi into her arms and held her tightly. She whispered into the girls hair while she continued to sleep. To Cassi, nothing had changed in the last few minutes. She was being cradled in the loving arms of her mother. Expected to wake up to find her ever doating brother waiting for her to have breakfast and go about their regular routine. Believed that she would be kissed on her forehead by her father.

The tears that rolled down Narcissa’s cheeks told a different story though, even as she continued to whisper to her daughter. The blonde looking more like the surface of snow with the first rays of sun streaking across. As if sensing the change, dark lashes fluttered then opened to expose tired, ice blue eyes. Cassi blinked several times while looking at Estella then turned to look up at her mother. A hand reaching out to gently brush Narcissa’s cheek before leaning her head down and falling back asleep.

Grabbing a blanket from the back of the rocker, Narcissa wrapped the baby up and set her in Estella’s waiting arms. She gathered a few items and put them in a small bag which she handed to Estella as well before sitting down to write a note. It was short, and hurried, and the smudges from dropped tears were ignored completely when she folded the parchment and shoved it into the bag.

“I can’t know.” She was able to say. Estella nodded and adjusted Cassi. “Protect her. No matter what, make sure she is taken care of.”

“Estella will make sure she is cared for.”

Without another word, Estella nodded and disappeared with a crack but not before hearing the devastated cry of Narcissa as she let go of her only daughter, expecting to never see her again.

June 1984

It had been weeks since Estella hid Cassi away, but it will never get easier for her to accept what she had to do. Poor Draco doesn’t understand. What four year old would? One day, he tells his sister good night with every expectation to see her in the morning only to wake up and find she is gone. He hardly ate, never smiled, and barely talked. Even when little Theo came over.

His birthday was a sad affair. Exactly one year prior Narcissa and Lucius had been floating on air at the news of another child, but the day now stood as a dark reminder they no longer had their daughter. Estella wished she could make it better for them. Better for Draco. But Cassi was with the master of a friend she had met when she still traveled with the Narcissa’s mother.

Hidden away in the icy north where she owned an orphanage, Nola promised to take good care of her. Promised to make sure she never wanted for anything and grew up strong and happy. It was not the family she deserved, hardly a family at all compared to the love she received in the first few months of her life. She was cared for, protected, and would remain safe since she was under an completely different name.

Katrin Estellasdottir.

Nola’s idea, to better fit in with those from the area. Icelandic tradition, she had told Estella. It pained her to take claim as the mother, but she knew it was better that way. Safer. Even if she did want to bring her back the moment she saw poor Draco searching the entire manor for her.

Sitting in the kitchen, her head in her hands, she cried. She cried tears that Lucius nor Narcissa, and especially not Draco could ever see. Estella was meant to be the strength in their time of need. The glue that kept everything within the Malfoy Manor running smoothly, even if every heart was breaking within.

Every heart but one.

Abraxas Malfoy was arrogant with his pleasure at her being gone. He had assumed that his plans had worked out, despite his argument with Mr. Nott the day Estella took Cassi away. Not that she could tell him any different. Lucius was furious, and had made it known one night after Draco had to cry himself to sleep.

This was all too hard for her. She didn’t know how she was going to keep doing this. Keep seeing her family breaking every time they passed her bedroom door. How was she meant to deal with Lucius turning colder and colder as the days went on? What was she meant to say when Draco and Theo asked her were their baby princess was? Dobby did his best to console her, but at night with everyone asleep was the only time she could let her feelings show.

July 1984

Estella watched as Lucius picked Draco up, frustration clear on his face, and went to stand in the Floo with Narcissa. His hard eyes met her own and gave a nod before they disappeared in a whirlwind of green flames. Once they were gone, she left with a thunderous crack only to appear in the untouched bedroom of Cassi.

Lucius had set an appointment to lock away Draco’s memories of Cassi. Narcissa had refused to allow them to be taken completely. Claiming that in order for the prophecy that Alethea had given to come to fruition, Draco would need to rely on the fact he had a sister. Lucius didn’t fully understand, but he trusted his wife.

Immediately following the decision to lock away Draco’s memories, they had set a task for Estella to complete immediately after they left for the appointment. She was to clean, preserve, then lock away everything in her room. Hide any and all traces of Cassi from the Manor. No pictures. No letters or notes. No games or toys. Clothes, blankets, or even food specifically for a baby.

It was to be as if she had never existed.

It was the only way to make sure that Draco would recover and thrive. Little Theo was going through a similar procedure since he had been so close to the baby as well. As dark as it seemed, Estella thought that Theo having lost his mother so recently might actually help them both with the feelings they were experiencing. Because despite the memories being locked away, the grief could not be erased.

With everything dusted, folded, shinned, and straightened-Estella stepped out and looked upon the nameplate that held Cassi’s full name for the last time.

Cassiopeia Alethea Malfoy

The name stood out proudly with a beautiful crown sat on the large C of her first name, showing her place as the family’s princess. She wiped away the tear from her eye and cast the spell to conceal the room from view. To remain hidden until the day she comes home. Then, and only then will it be revealed. Nothing to be changed until that day.

September 1995

She knew the girl wouldn’t remember her. Knew it was likely pointless to go, but Estella couldn’t stop herself. She would be going to Durmstrang for the first time today and she couldn’t keep herself from going to make sure she got onto the ship without issue.

Standing at the dock, with long blonde hair pulled into two braids that hung over her shoulders, stood Cassi. She looked healthy and well cared for with a good weight on her bones to help fend off the frigid air of the Iceland Sea. Thick grey furs lined the dark cloak hanging around her shoulders and a healthy pink hue dusted across her cheeks and nose. Ice blue eyes stood out among black eyelashes. She gave polite smiles to those who passed, but didn’t seem overly excited to enter into conversation herself.

Just like the Malfoys she held her chin high and shoulders back. Not letting anyone see how nervous and excited she really was to be going to school. She had grown up half in the wizarding world, so magic was not a new concept for her, but to learn how to control her own must be exciting for her.

Estella stood back and watched until she boarded the ship and it sailed out of view. Her parents would be proud. Draco too.

If only they could know.