Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas
“Finally got Ron to sleep. You’d think it would be the twins who were difficult, but that boy just can’t settle himself over the fact that he’ll have gifts tomorrow.” Molly shook her head as she entered their living space. The tree was burly, chopped from their own yard, and slanted sideways. She glanced sadly at the few gifts stacked underneath it, only wishing she could produce some more for her children. What she would give to have a glorious Christmas for them all.
Arthur didn’t miss the longing glance, giving his wife a small smile. They did what they could, and he wished he could do more. But he also wouldn’t have it any other way.
“The boys did a great job with the tree didn’t they?” He smiled proudly at it, the lights were unevenly strewn across the branches, ornaments haphazardly hanging by a thread, garland with missing chunks from too strong grips.
“I suppose so.” Molly sighed, examining the tree. When she was feeling sorry for herself she only imagined the magnificent tree that would be placed at Narcissa Malfoy’s place, or others like her. Large and decorated to fit a finished decor. Expensive heirlooms placed about neatly and stacked with magnificent gifts underneath. But as she looked over the handmaid ornaments, she couldn’t help the smile that settled on her features. There was the makeshift dragon ornament Charlie had attempted to knit with her one afternoon, Bill had transfigured a few things into beautiful bulbs, and they all had taken turns making the tree theirs. It was perhaps the most beautiful tree afterall.
“Here, I have a gift for you.” Arthur whispered in her ear, squeezing her shoulders.
“Now Arthur, I thought we promised each other no gifts!” Molly turned, but he had disappeared to his workshop area. Outside the window a soft beautiful snow was beginning to fall, coating the land around their house in white. Tomorrow the children would love that, though she would have to remind Fred and George to be gentle with Ginny. She’d make her special hot coco, and it would be a lovely day, she was determined to make that happen.
“It’s not much but…” Arthur returned, holding a small rectangular box between his hands, a stick poking out of the top. She tried to give a genuine smile, unsure of what it was exactly.
“Oh dear, it’s more than enough.” Molly nodded, moving to give her husband a kiss on the cheek.
“It’s a muggle radio, and apparently they have music stations dedicated solely to Christmas music.” He explained, placing it on their table and fiddling with the knobs and antenna. Molly hovered, wary of this contraption, and if Arthur would really be able to make it work. As he worked, he poked his tongue out between his lips, a sweet quirk that Molly still admired to this day.
“Don’t worry honey, it’s the thought that counts.” But as soon as the words left her mouth, the radio crinkled and soft music began to fill the room around them.
“Have yourself a merry little christmas…” carried in a low voice around them as Arthur straightened up, beaming. Molly met his smile just as sweetly, her heart soaring at the sight.
“Now, Mrs. Weasley, may I have this dance?” He offered a hand, already taking her waist in the other and pulling her close. She couldn’t hold in the giggle that he coaxed out of her, and gratefully placed her hand into his, resting her head on his shoulder. They swayed to the music, the crackles as it faded and came back not bothering her one bit.
“I love our life Molly.” He admitted quietly, kissing her head. She looked up, meeting those adoring eyes.
“Me too Arthur.” It was the truth, that despite the hardships, there was no one else she would rather be with. No other life that would be nearly as joyful as this one.