Intentions

[Thomas Moon]

Thomas Moon had been meaning to make this visit for some time. His daughter had been dating Stefan Archer for too long for him not to know him. He'd met him at the twins' party, but he wanted to have a serious conversation with this young man. He'd always known he'd have to do this, but hadn't thought it would be so soon. He'd always imagined the girls would meet someone when they were older, more mature, better able to look after themselves. Kate was mature for her age though, and he trusted her judgement. He'd always assumed Kate would be the first to fly the nest. She trusted people, and let them in easily. Her twin was the opposite, which was probably a good thing in her line of work. He knew Kate loved this man, as hard as it was to admit. In an ideal world, his daughters would remain little girls forever, and the only man they would ever love was their daddy, but this was not an ideal world, and he had to cope with that. He didn't know how serious things were between them, but he knew Kate. She was not the kind of girl who went through various relationships; when Kate made a decision she stuck with it, like the way she was sticking with her teacher training. This boy-no man-could be a part of their family some day, and Thomas wanted to welcome him, but knew how hard a step it was to take.

He knew he couldn't meet with him at his home, seeing as he was living with Kate now, and that was terrifying enough. He knew Stefan was working in a bookshop nearby though, and he decided that was where to go. He'd asked a few questions, and found the place. He knew that, essentially Stefan was a good person, but he'd hurt Kate before. Stefan leaving school had been the prompt for Kate's anorexia, and Thomas wasn't sure he was ready to forgive that. Then, he'd walked back into her life and Kate had accepted him. Thomas knew Stefan had some difficulty with his parents; both of whom were dead now, but he needed to be assured that nothing like that would ever happen again. He didn't care if he didn't have magic, if he hurt Kate again; Thomas would destroy him. The boy would wish he'd never met the little girl with the big brown eyes. He tried to ignore those feelings of anger. He needed to be firm, but fair with Stefan, and his daughter's boyfriend needed to know where he stood.

He opened the door, greeted by the cursory tinkling of bells which occurred whenever you entered most shops. He liked bookshops, he loved books. Reading was his favourite pastime, something he shared with his children. One of their most constant memories of childhood was their dad sitting by the fireplace, totally lost in a book. He'd never read much to his children, preferring to make up stories for them, but they'd all grown to love reading from their parents example. He hoped Stefan didn't mind him dropping in on him. He approached the counter, and asked for Stefan. He was directed to the back of the shop, and so he worked his way behind the shelves. This was the type of shop he liked, relaxed and homey. He really disliked those new, plastic bookshops. The helpers knew nothing about the books, and he always felt they just wanted you to hurry up. His opinion of Stefan was rising, simply because of his choice of workplace. He was the librarian in Hogwarts, and so he could assume he liked children. He just hoped he was good enough for his Kit-Kat.

 

[Stefan Archer]

While Stefan had started working at the Hogwarts library, he still did some part time work at the place that had first gotten him a job. It was working in a small independent bookstore in the town close to where he lived. It wasn't often he was there, mostly on the weekends, and since the school term was almost over, Stefan had decided it would make more sense if he attempted to do a little bit more work for him, since he had the time. The past few weeks had been a whirlwind for him, but in the best of ways. Kate had turned twenty one, the party with the others had been great fun. He was really glad to have seen all of the people, even the ones that he did not know that well. He was happy to see his friends and have a lot of fun. Stefan knew that his life lacked those ever so slightly happier memories that others had. It was not just that, but he was still incredibly happy that about him and Kate. They were together, they would be getting married. He was more excited about this than anything else. It just was the most amazing thing to him. He couldn't believe that she'd said yes, and that they were really settling together. It felt really very incredible. He smiled every time he thought or saw her. He felt his heart warm when she spoke. He loved her so much, and he couldn't imagine anything else. She was the most beautiful and incredible person he'd ever had the good fortune to meet. He wanted to spend his life doing everything he could for her. He wanted to be there for her every single day. Support her in every decision that she would make. He would never try to hold her back. He even thought that if she wanted to go back and explore more of the world, he would definitely not hold her back from doing so. Maybe even encourage her to do so. They were young and Stefan realised they had their entire lives ahead of them, but there was no one he would rather be with than her. There was no one he'd rather spend his entire life with but her. It was why he'd felt, during Kate's birthday a little more nervous about her father. They had met in passing on a couple of occasions now, but it was never anything serious. He felt that maybe he should try to get to know them better, but as far as he'd come, he still had a few issues with fathers.

It had been a quiet day in the store for Stefan. He'd been spending a lot of his time, going through the new books that had been brought in. Labelling them, and writing the price, then putting them into their database. He was happy for the task. The old man who ran the stre was happy for the opportunity to just man the store. Stefan hadn't really expected much from this day. His thoughts were mostly on Kate, as well as what he'd make for dinner. Stefan didn't really need to be doing this part time. They made enough with his first job, but Stefan didn't ever want to be in a position where he was low on cash, he didn't want to ever be in a situation like he'd been with his father. Stefan knew that Kate had once been close to her own father, perhaps less so now. Stefan didn't want to get in the way of it, but he knew that it would be up to Kate the role they played in the wedding. The former slytherin wondered a lot about what her parents knew about him. About his upbringing and the troubles he'd had. He hoped that they knew very little about it. It was just better to him if they knew little, but Stefan realised that they might blame him for what had happened to Kate, and while he couldn't really explain why to them, he knew if they asked he would be honest. Especially now, considering they'd soon technically be family. Stefan picked up the pile of books he'd been working on that were ready to go to the shelves, and had been about to go, when as he turned he was graced with the sight of Kate's father. Startled by this Stefan dropped the books as he half jumped half flinched away. Stefan had come a long way in the past years, but every so often he just couldn't help his reaction. "I'm sorry" he mumbled as he looked between the books he'd dropped and Kate's father. "I'm sorry, Mr Moon, sir, you took me by surprise" Stefan smiled slightly and moved closer, making less of a gap between them. When Stefan worked in the back of the store, he wore a simple t-shirt and jeans, and because it generally got quite warm, his jumper was discarded at the other side of the room. He hardly noticed it now, but his arms were just littered with scars of various sizes. The old scar on his arm from the burn, the one on his palm, the scars of various lengths and age that he'd grown very accostumed to having were very exposed. "Can I get you a tea or coffee?" He asked, unsure as to how to ask what he was doing here politely, "If you were looking for Kate, sir, I can give you the address, it's not far"
​

 

[Thomas Moon]

Thomas wasn't entirely sure what he meant to say to Stefan, he just knew that this was a trip he needed to make. Kate would probably kill him if she knew that he were doing this. She'd always been quite independent, and he knew that she and Stefan were good together, he just wanted this man to know that Thomas Moon would always look after his children. He mightn't always be around, but he always had an eye on them. He could do nothing about his worry about Kate's twin, who-in typical Sara fashion-had chosen the most dangerous career possible. Kate, however, he could handle. He took a deep breath as Stefan noticed him. He crouched down and picked up the books; handing them back to Stefan. "No harm, no foul." he smiled, as Stefan greeted him. "Please, Thomas." he smiled, though he knew how intimidating Fathers could be. Sophie's father had terrified him the first time they'd met. He'd met Stefan a few times, of course; most recently at the twins' party, but it was still strange to think that his daughter was living with the man. "A coffee would be wonderful, thank you." He replied, his eyes wandering up and down Stefan's arms, which were littered with scars. He hardly seemed the type for fighting, or violence, so how had he gotten them? Stefan hadn't had the ideal childhood so far as he knew; his mother had died young, but that was all he knew. Sara had often spoken of a friend who refused help when they were younger, and Thomas now knew that friend to be Stefan, but he didn't know what he'd needed help with. The scars were worrying though.

He sighed at the suggestion; it was perfectly normal that Stefan would assume he was looking for Kate, and that meant he would have to announce his intentions. "Well Stefan, I'm actually here for you. I hope you don't mind me coming here, I just knew it was unlikely that I would be able to catch you alone at the house." His hands remained in his pockets, he was unsure how to phrase this this, and he liked Stefan, so he didn't want to insult him. "My daughter is very important to me; all my children are, and I'm here because-because I know how much she cares about you. Kate, that is.." The next sentence stuck in his throat, as it was one that he'd never truly believed he'd have to say out loud. "She loves you, and I want to be sure that-that you would..." This was the wrong approach entirely. "Forgive me, Kate's the first of the four to be in a serious relationship, I've never really had to give this speech before." he admitted. He'd hopefully do a better job of it next time; for Star or Sara. "Look, you two have been together a long time, and you're both very young; I want to make sure she doesn't get hurt." He frowned, disliking the formality of the phrase forming in his head, but it was out before he could think of another way to say it. "What are your intentions Stefan? I mean, you two are living together, and while that's fine, I mean it's the norm now. You two seem very happy, but.." he stopped himself before continuing. "She is strong Stefan, but not as strong as she seems. You know how ill she was when she was younger, and... you hurt her before Stefan. I'm not blaming you for that, I know you had problems, and leaving school was your decision, but I need to know you will not hurt her again. Her happiness depends largely on you. I want her to be happy." he let the words flow, forgetting politeness. His daughter's happiness was more important than propriety. He knew that this man could easily be the person Kate spent the rest of her life with, and he needed to be sure he was the right man.

He stopped, looking at Stefan for his reaction. "This isn't a personal attack or anything Stefan, I would be giving this speech to any potential... I like you, I do, and I think you are good for her, but I need you to understand where i'm coming from.." he explained. He'd maintained eye-contact for the entire conversation, which was something he'd taught his children. Eye-contact was important. He needed Stefan to understand that this wasn't petty jealousy over losing his children, slowly, but surely. This was because he wanted the best for them, he wanted them safe and happy. Stefan had a large impact on Kate's happiness, and he needed to understand how serious that was. He knew Kate was strong for him, but Stefan needed to be strong for her too.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Stefan had in seeing the man made no real move to pick up the books which he'd dropped, so he was thankful when he did. Stefan smiled politely as he took them from him, and placed them on the nearest available surface where he would also not forget about them. He knew that kate's father had told him before to call him Thomas, but Stefan didn't feel comfortable doing that. It had taken him a while to get properly comfortable around Branson, and the owner of this shop had not really noticed Stefan's distance. He was obviously much better now, but there were some lingering issues which mostly centred around fathers. Men mostly. He was doing a lot better now, but considering that this was the father of the girl he was going to be marrying his mind was acting a little more than normal. "Sure thing" He nodded, a coffee would help him too. He was honestly a little worried that something was wrong and he was there to tell him the bad news. It was a good thing that this back room, was fairly small, and had a small kitchen like room attached to it. He was able to get the coffee machine going, and stood in the doorway as the elder man began to speak. The former Slytherin knew now that he was here to see him and not his daughter. If the coffee had been any indication of something. He listened as the man spoke, finally beginning to see where this was heading. Stefan had never really had to think about his parents in a sense where they actually cared about him. His mother had died when he'd been too young, and his father hadn't cared. This had never been something that had ever crossed his mind really. Stefan glanced round to the now almost filled coffee pot. And taking two cups out of the cupboard, he poured equal amounts in both, "Do you take milk or sugar in your coffee?" He asked quickly, making Mr. Moon's coffee like he asked for it. Taking both cups, he handed one to him, and kept one in his hands. Glancing around for some chairs. Grabbing one and passing it to Thomas, before taking one for himself. Stefan sat himself down on the edge of the chair and listened as the elder spoke. It was definitely strange, and of course Stefan had given a little thought to what Kate's parents might be like, but he had never thought he'd really be faced with him, on a very person basis. Stefan didn't altogether like it. From the way he spoke, it was obvious that neither Kate, or Sara had ever told them about the sort of troubles that Stefan had faced. He nodded along as the man spoke just taking what he said in and bowing his head as the man asked his intentions, he had noticed that Mr. Moon was keen on keeping eye contact but Stefan kept looking away. Keeping it as long as he could before bowing his head and looking at the ground, or at the coffee in his hands. He talking about their relationship and how it was perhaps they were a little young to be doing what they were doing. Stefan felt like interjecting but it didn't seem right.

At what he said next Stefan just nodded. He couldn't take back the decisions he'd made back then. He did see them as selfish in part, but there was no other way he could've seen about getting out of the mind space he'd been in at the time. Leaving, pushing them away. He realised that perhaps Mr. Moon would've rather that he'd really pushed Kate away. As he spoke of Stefan being strong he shook his head. He knew that he wasn't as strong as he could play himself. When the man seemed to be finished, Stefan just glanced up at him. He was frowning slightly, but made himself smile at the man, "Sir, I want Kate to be happy more than anything." He said quietly, not sure how to respond to what he'd said. "I don't have any bad intentions with your daughter. Kate, she means everything to me. I would never hurt her like I did when I was young" He brought the cup to his lips and took a small sip. Stefan glanced down at his arms, the hand not holding the coffee was facing him. The old scar stared back at him. He knew he could tell him about his life. "I didn't mean to hurt Kate back then either. I'm sorry for what I did. Things were really hard back then. I was in a horrible situation, which for a large part was my own fault" He paused, getting to his feet and turning away from the man, glancing out to piles of books that were stacked against the wall, he knew that the man could take what he'd said either literally or in a metaphorical sense, both were in a way true. "I love Kate, she saved my life on so many occasions." He paused, turning back to him, "I probably would not be here if it had not been for Kate." He had never really been this honest with anyone he'd just met about his past, even if he wasn't stating anything outright. The man in front of Stefan was Kate's dad, for her there was little he wouldn't do. "I think I understand where you are coming from. You love your daughter, all your children, you would protect them from anything that would or could harm them. I'm sure my mother would've done the same with Kate." He nodded, and took his seat again. He spoke softly, in an almost distant tone, like he knew what it was, but had never experienced it. "Mr. Moon, Thomas sir, there is nothing I wouldn't do to make Kate happy. She makes me a better man, she fills my days with joy, and wonder. She makes me want to be better, be stronger. Kate makes the worst days bearable. For Kate, all I want is for her to be happy and loved." He stopped himself from saying anything else. Not sure how else to express how much he loved Kate, and what had happened in the past was in the past.
​

 

[Thomas Moon]

Out of Character:

Oh God, I'm so sorry this is so late.

Thomas smiled sadly at Stefan. He was a good kid, and he knew how much he loved Kate. In any other circumstances he would've really liked the boy, and he did like him, but it was hard when you knew he was taking one of his children away. He hoped it wouldn't always be this hard, letting them go, but his heart knew otherwise. At least with Kate he'd seen it coming, but some of the others were still so close with the family, so involved; they had nobody 'special' in their lives, he wouldn't see it coming and be able to prepare as he had with Kate. "Just milk, thank you." he replied. Well, that was always a good sign. Back home, in Ireland, not offering a guest tea or coffee was almost a cardinal sin and would label you as 'a cold fish' for the rest of your days. Kate's boyfriend was friendly, courteous. She could've chosen much worse. God knew he worried the other two would, especially Kate's twin who had a tendency to act without thinking. He took the coffee, and sighed as he realised how hard it must be for Stefan to hear all this. He'd never been close with his father, that much he knew, and the scars he could see on his arms gave another insight to what his childhood had been like. He paused a moment, and added. "I like you Stefan, and I think Kate has made a fine choice, this isn't me warning you off her or anything, I promise." He felt better after saying that. This whole conversation made him feel like he was persecuting the boy-no, man. That wasn't his intention. He wasn't entirely sure what his intentions were with this visit, he just knew he had to make it, he had to speak with the boy who could one day be the father of his grandchildren. He shuddered at the thought. It made him feel old, though he'd always wanted to be a grandad. It just felt as though his childrens' childhood had flashed by with no warning, and he'd missed half of it because they'd been in Hogwarts. He didn't resent the fact that they had magic, but he sometimes wished they'd been around more.

He sounded so harsh, and he knew it. He kept trying to think of ways to soften the blow, and eventually blurted out; "You have no idea how delighted we were when the girls told us you'd come back. It was a real turn-around for Kate." That sounded a bit strange, but it was true. Kate had been stronger, more determined after Stefan had returned. She needed him, but that hurt to think too. He didn't want to scare Stefan away. For one thing; Kate would never forgive him if he did. He just wanted to have a better idea of what sort of man he was, if he was good enough for his little Kit-Kat. He smiled at the memory of that nickname. They'd all gotten nicknames, and Sophie had always rolled her eyes at them. We gave them names for a reason, she would pout whenever he called them by his pet names, but there was always laughter in her eyes. He wanted his children to do as well as he'd done. He loved Sophie, even after all these years; he couldn't believe how lucky he'd gotten. She was so kind, and caring. She was a wonderful mother, and he felt privileged that she'd chosen him.

As Stefan began to speak, Thomas watched him. He didn't seem particularly comfortable, but his words had a ring of truth that Thomas could not deny. This man loved his daughter, and as hard as it might be to admit, Kate loved him too. Thomas really had no right to interfere with that, and he didn't want to change their relationship. He wanted to know Stefan. Sophie would probably be livid with him over this visit today. As Stefan spoke about his earlier problems, Thomas winced. He'd been so young, he shouldn't have had to deal with life-altering problems. The girls had asked again and again if they could take him in, never explaining why, and with the huge expanse of their home; Thomas had no reason to refuse them. The Glass boys had been living there; why not Stefan? It was terrible to think what may have happened to the boy that had become the man in front of him. He waited until Stefan had finished, and exhaled. "That's all I want too Stefan... I'm so sorry for everything that has happened to you. I don't know the details, and I'm not asking for them, but I know how much Kate worried about you, so it must've been bad, and I'm very sorry. It must've been hard, growing up without a mother." He'd adored his own mother, and had probably been closer with her than his father; who'd always been working. Pausing a moment, he acknowledged that this visit would probably shape the rest of his relationship with this man, and thus his relationship with his daughter. "Stefan, despite the fact that I've come here, and questioned you about my daughter, and your motives; I want you to know that you're always welcome in our home. You mean so much to our girl, and Sara says she considers you a second brother... You're a part of our family now, and I want you to feel as such, so after today; I will never question you about Kate, or your relationship again." he stopped, hoping Stefan could feel how sincere he was. "That is a promise."

 

[Stefan Archer]

While Stefan's politeness did not really stem from his father, it was because of his father that Stefan knew to ask. He knew it was the right to do, and it was the polite thing to do. He had to behave well for Kate's father, a man who he'd probably spend a lot more time with over the coming years. Considering that him and Kate were to be married. Stefan had not expected the man to have dropped by, or he would've maybe thought to get better coffee. "I hope I put enough milk in, and also not too much. If it's too much, I can make you a new cup" Stefan's father had often asked Stefan to deal with making coffee, and while he could still make the kind of coffee his father like to perfect, the same could not be said about someone whom he had only met on a few occasions, and this being the first time that he'd made it. Stefan didn't feel like adding on any reason to why he was pretty eager to be sure the man had the kind of coffee that he liked, it was unnecessary, and Stefan had to be well behaved. This man, was Kate's father, and he needed the man to like him. Which was promptly what the man said next. Stefan smiled slightly at Thomas, feeling himself redden ever so slightly. He knew that if this man had asked him to step away from Kate, that Stefan might just do it. He didn't think it would be right, but he had enough experience with disobey direct orders that he would've just done it. He respect the mans wishes, and while Kate would get a say, it would be up to her to right things with her father. He was therefore thankful that the man was saying the opposite, that he liked Stefan and wasn't trying to tell him to leave. "Sir, just so you know, if you asked me to. I would" He felt it was a little pointless to tell him such a thing, but he had, and there was no taking it back. He just kept his hands around his mug, listening to the man, and then he himself speaking. Though, what her father said about them being delighted about his return for the sake of Kate, made him feel bad. He was glad of course that it had happened. Stefan was however more than aware that his leaving had actually caused many of the problems. That it was his actions which had been the catalyst for many things, so it was strange to here this man tell him that they had been pretty pleased when Stefan had returned. Stefan was beginning to actually get the impression that Kate's father actually did like him. It was strange. This man was concerned for his daughter, nothing more, and yet despite wanting to know about Stefan had shown him politeness, and also that he didn't hate the former Slytherin.

As Stefan spoke, he was glad that the man didn't interrupt him. It was difficult to say what he was saying. He was being as honest as he could manage with this man he barely knew. Finally when all was said and done, and Stefan was back in his seat, he looked to the man in front of him, meeting his eyes. Stefan was forcing a polite smile, because despite his good mood, it was difficult to talk, to put into words, about how much he cared about Kate and what it meant to him all that she'd done. Finally after a few moment's silence the elder man spoke. Stefan listened to Kate's father. It was only polite after all, since he had listened to Stefan. The former slytherin was surprised, that he'd seemed to say the right thing. The man gave his apologies saying that he'd had no idea what Stefan had gone through. Stefan wasn't sure if he should tell him anything about it. He was kind of hoping that he didn't have to, but it seemed almost a little bit right that he should. Since they'd soon be sort of family. Then the man spoke of Stefan growing up without a mother, Stefan shrugged a little at this. He loved his mother, but he'd never known her, and he'd never known anything other than his father until Hogwarts really. It wasn't like Stefan knew what it was like to have a mother to really say it was hard growing up without one. He missed her, and did wish that she could be there. There was a break in the conversation, when Thomas stopped speaking, "My mother died when I was two, I don't remember her at all. I miss her, and I wish that was alive so that she could've met Kate." Stefan hadn't known his mother, but his idea of her was like any mother who would be proud of the girl that Stefan intended to marry. Stefan was also sure that had she lived his life might've been very different. The next words that Thomas spoke, caused Stefan to break eye contact. He took a sip of his own coffee and kept his gaze on the cup. He felt touched by the words. He could honestly see where both Moon girl's got their good, kind nature from. He nodded at his last words, his mind just thinking of his father. Causing Stefan to laugh slightly. "It's funny, my cousin's parents are amazing people, you and Mrs. Moon are amazing parents. Two families who don't have to care about me in the slightest appear to." He looked back up at Thomas, smiling slightly more, "But my own dad who raised me, didn't care about me at all. Didn't care enough to you know not." Stefan shook his head, glancing back down at the coffee taking a long sip, he gave a small sigh. "Thank you sir. And for the record, if you wanted to know any of the details, I would answer them as honestly as I can. Kate knows most of it, it's difficult to hide it from her after so much, and since we live together"
​

 

[Thomas Moon]

Thomas waved away Stefan's question. "Oh no, this is perfect, thank you." In reality, Stefan was a nice, polite boy. This whole thing would probably be easier if he were horrible, and totally wrong for Kate, but that was not the case. They were an ideal pair. He hoped his other children would pick someone so agreeable, but somehow he doubted it. Kate and Star had always been the sensible ones; he could see Ryan and Sara causing trouble. Stefan's next sentence made Thomas' jaw drop, and he wasn't sure how to reply. He would simply give up Kate? That probably stemmed from some sort of aversion to confrontation, but it totally threw Thomas. If someone had told him to stay away from Sophie, he would've punched them and been done with it. What was Stefan thinking? He paused a moment, trying to process this, trying to understand. Sara had always said Stefan had a negative view of himself as a child. Perhaps that was it? Perhaps he thought he wasn't good enough for her? That, he could understand, wanting to save the one you loved from oneself. "Well, I-I won't be... doing that." he finally choked out, not sure what to think. "But Stefan. If I did; you shouldn't feel you'd have to listen I mean... You have to fight for someone you love sometimes, and it's the right thing to do." he added, looking up. What way had this boy been raised? Why did he have so little confidence in his own worth? Kate adored him, and he could see now how she helped the man in front of him. Kate had a tendency to try to look after people, and maybe it was the same with these two. He shook his head, banishing any negative thoughts. He refused to judge this man on a throwaway comment that was probably meant to reassure him. Part of him just thought of Stefan as a little boy, he was young enough to be his son, obviously. His eyes softened as he thought about what sort of life he must have lead. He was alone, he had no mother. As far as Thomas understood, he hadn't been close to his father. He couldn't imagine that, couldn't imagine that loneliness, and then he'd lost his father too. It must've been hard, and it wasn't for Thomas to judge him, he had to sympathise and try to understand.

"I'm sure Kate wishes that too." he replied, as Stefan spoke about his mother. When he thought back to how hard it would've been for his children, to live without Sophie. Thomas, as they'd gotten older, was around less, and Sophie was the reliable one, who would always know where their favourite jumper was, or where they'd left their trunk. A mother was a necessity as far as Thomas was concerned. Thomas couldn't resist the urge to chuckle at Stefan's words, and smiled at the boy. "You'll learn, that the less you ask people to care about you, the more they will. Those who demand our love simply tend to irritate us. You forget, I've heard about you at home for years; when the girls came home from Hogwarts, they'd tell us all these stories, about parties you attended, funny things their friends said. You were a recurring character in those stories." he explained, smiling. His smile disappeared as Stefan spoke about his Dad. "It was his loss Stefan.." he replied, a frown creasing his brow. "And you don' have to tell me anything, I won't ask. Should you ever want to talk about it, I'll listen, but I'm not going to force you to tell me anything.. I've guessed part of it anyway." he added, his eyes drawn to the scars on his arms. Who could do that to a child? Because Stefan's words about his father had basically proven Thomas' suspicions. "And it's good that you can trust Kate, that's important in a... relationship." he smiled, unsure what to call the connection between his daughter and the scarred, gentle man in front of him.

He sighed as he thought about the fact that his children had grown up. "I know this all seems a bit strange, and if I'm honest, I'm not sure what drew me here today. Someday though, you'll understand this, you'll maybe have a daughter of your own, and want to protect her from everything in the world." he looked back up at the boy, who had startling blue eyes, though Kate informed him that Stefan was colour-blind, and so he'd never know how striking they were. That, was another tragedy. He couldn't imagine a world without colour. "Not that I can really protect them, they're ten times more powerful than I.. I mean, Sara's decided to fight the forces of evil for God's sake. Kate though... She'll be a great teacher. Her mother was so delighted when she told us, she'd always hoped one of the kids would follow in our footsteps." he rambled, realising that he was doing so, he turned back to Stefan, ignoring the books that had caught his attention. "I do wish you every happiness, Stefan." he grinned. Even now, he looked like a boy when he smiled.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Stefan was rather pleased that the man was happy with his coffee. As much as he knew this man was nothing like his father, he couldn't help but feel like he should be treated in the same manner as Stefan had treated his father. Though obviously it was much less extreme. For one thing, Stefan was not afraid of Kate's father. He just saw him basically as in the same position of authority as his father had been. Which was why he'd told him that if this man asked him to step away he would. He loved Kate, and he would want to fight for her, but he felt like he could disobey her father's wishes if they were that. Stefan was not holding out for the reaction he actually got from Mr. Moon. Who seemed incredibly surprised by Stefan's words. He loved Kate, but he respected and would obey Mr. Moon. He would let Kate be the one to figure things out with her father and not him. He was glad that the man told him that he couldn't be doing that. Stefan was relieved, since he didn't want to leave Kate at all. He loved Kate so much, and he didn't think he would do very well at letting her go. Not after everything, not after the fact that she'd said yes to marrying him. He smiled softly at his words, fight for someone you love, that was strange to hear. "Thomas, sir, I have learnt that disobeying a direct order, fighting, never ends well. My father taught me, to never disobey a direct order" He told the man, "But, I love Kate so much, and I'm thankful to you for not asking me to walk away" He couldn't express how much he was thankful, or how much he was glad that he didn't have to do much else to convince him to not send Stefan away. Stefan loved Kate with all of his heart. As the man spoke again, that Kate would've loved to have met his mother he nodded. Really Stefan wished they could meet his mother again, the pair of them. So he could sit with his mother and tell her everything that had happened and explain that while he had at times planned her death for all the misfortune which had followed, it had not been her fault. That he understood better now. It had been hard back then, but things really were better now that Stefan was older, and knew just a little more about the way life was. He was however glad that his father hadn't lived long enough to meet Kate. He couldn't imagine an interaction between this man and his own father. His own father being the harsh, blunt, drunk man that Stefan remembered, and this nice man who was simply showing concern for his daughter. His father would've made the experience completely unpleasant. He was just thinking of what his father would say to Stefan, probably make a show of hurting Stefan in front of Kate's father just to show who was in charge.

"On the other hand, I'm glad that she never had to meet my father. Not that I would've ever let her close to him." Stefan muttered, knowing that he would've never let his father anywhere close to Kate. Just if his father hadn't died all those years ago, this might be a very different day. Stefan stayed silent as the other man spoke, nodding along, remembering that Kate had said she would never forget him. Would've never. He wondered what it would've been like had he actually died. He wondered if they knew about the fact he'd simply vanished over christmas one time. The former slytherin did appreciate the man's words. He could tell where Sara got her wisdom from. It was clearly a family trait. He smiled at the elder man, Stefan feeling a lot more at ease than he had been when the man had first appeared in front of him. His hands still wrapped around his coffee cup, he was more than relieved when Thomas said he didn't need to know anything unless Stefan was wanting to talk about it. It was nice to know that the man didn't want any of the details that Stefan was not overly keen on sharing really. He watched the man's eyes glance down at his scars and he reddened slightly, removing one hand from his mug and rubbing his other arm slightly. Not like he could get them to disappear. "I don't like talking about it. It's difficult enough with Kate. You should be so proud of your girls they cared so much, and showed me so much kindness that I hadn't really known. Sara was always so concerned, and Kate, she has the kindest heart of anyone. I'm not even exaggerating a little bit when I say had it not been for them, for the love Kate showed me, I would've given up." He told the man, he felt like he had to tell the man about how much it meant to him, Kate. He needed the man to understand that Stefan would never harm her intentionally, show how much his daughter meant to Stefan. The man spoke about his children and talked of Stefan wanting to protect his own children one day. Stefan nodded at this, he would do anything to protect any children he might have. The former slytherin let the man continue, though Stefan knew that he was well in his right to have done this. He smiled at the last words, happiness. Stefan wanted happiness for himself and Kate more than anything "Thomas, I understand why you came. You are just looking out for them, for her. I know the horrors of this world, I would do the same. While I don't know about a family growing up and apart, and essentially losing children, I can imagine it's pretty hard" Stefan paused and took a small sip of his drink, "The only loss I suffered was my parents, one that I didn't really know and the other who hated me, and it was still hard. But, Kate loves you, and I love Kate. You will always be a part of our lives. I'll be sure of it."
​

 

[Thomas Moon]

Thomas was starting to feel far more comfortable with this conversation. He'd imagined Stefan would be quite defensive about the whole thing. After all; he was a young man, and young men could be easily insulted. When he'd been in his twenties, he'd gone out of his way to show off for girls, looking ridiculous in the process. Then again, he'd been afraid the first few times he'd met his father-in-law. They'd gone on to be friends, but Sophie had laughed away his fears. Then again, Sophie's dad had been an absolute gent, and Thomas had looked up to him. When he'd died, Thomas had cried his eyes out, unashamedly. Stefan's words silenced him, and he looked at the ground, grinding his jaw. This boy hadn't been raised properly. He'd never say that though, and it was a miracle that Stefan had become the person he was today, but hearing about Stefan's father made him angry, and made him want to help him. He could now understand why Kate had always worried about him so much, she had reason to. After a moment, he looked back up at Stefan, trying to control the anger in his voice, no child should ever be taught that they simply had to obey. In their house, debate had always been encouraged, and the children had always been taught to do what they thought was right, not what others told them. "Well... I wouldn't agree with your father there. Sometimes orders can be the wrong ones, and me telling you to stay away from my daughter when you love each other would be very wrong." he breathed, his shoulders stiff. "Seriously, if I ever order you about, feel free to... hex me? Is that the right one?" he added, unsure of the wording. His kids had explained a lot of the magical world to him, but he often was just upset by it. There was a whole section of their lives that he could never be a part of, and that hurt. The only people Thomas had ordered about, or told what to do were his children and his employees. Even then, it was usually in the form of a request. Orders were for the army, not for family. Sure, he'd shouted at his children in anger, told them to go to their rooms, but there were rarely any consequences. They'd learnt to be more upset about disappointing them, than by punishment. A child should be raised in love, not fear. He'd send them to their rooms, and they'd sit on their beds, thinking that reading or playing was wrong when they were in trouble. Thinking about them as children, when they were still innocent, and entirely his, was comforting and he relaxed slightly.

Thomas chose not to comment about Stefan's father. He wouldn't want Kate to have met a man like that, and he appreciated the fact that Stefan would want to protect her from that too. He simply nodded, looking at the floor. He couldn't imagine it, being afraid of one's own father. Yes, his Dad had been gone a lot, but when he'd come home, they'd talk about books, and soccer, maybe go and see a few matches. Almost all of his memories of him were good ones. He frowned as Stefan covered his arm. He wished he hadn't looked at the scars, but it was hard not to. It was just heart-breaking to think of what must've happened to him. "Is it a problem me being here while you're working?" he asked, as it occurred to him. He didn't want to get Stefan in trouble. "Well then, I'm glad they didn't. They can both be stubborn, something I think they inherited from me, though Kate didn't inherit my temper." he smiled. Thomas was slow to lose it openly, but he was capable of real anger; Sara and Ryan were both capable of the same, but the other two girls had inherited Sophie's sweeter demeanour. "We won't talk about it then." he added, with a grin. He couldn't help his smile broadening as Stefan addressed him as 'Thomas'for the first time. His description was quite apt though, and he sighed, sipping his coffee. "It is hard, and thank you for understanding. And, well; thank you for loving my daughter. It's all her mother and I have ever wanted for our kids, to be happy, and you make her happy. Very." he replied, looking across at the young man opposite. It was funny; he had everything to look forward to. He would get married, have a family, live a long, full life; hopefully. It felt strange to Thomas, seeing his children at this point, when it felt like yesterday when he'd been at the same stage in his own life. It was sad to hear Stefan saying his father had hated him though; he couldn't see why. He was a pleasant boy, but then again Thomas doubted he could ever understand. He adored his children, they meant the world to him, and he would do anything for them. If he'd ever hurt them, he didn't think he could live with himself. Kate had been pretty sheltered as a child, and this man had been the opposite. Well, opposites attracted, he supposed.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Stefan was honestly feeling a little bit more comfortable around Kate's father. It took a while for him to get comfortable around anyone new, and much more someone that he knew he had to make a good impression on. He was pleased that at least there was no yelling, and that Kate's father was a reasonable man, who was just looking out for his daughter. Stefan smiled at him, though his words didn't speak of any happy times. Disobey an order, or arguing were definitely not things that be had been allowed to do in his home when he was growing up. The few times he had, had always ended badly, and it probably was beginning to be the kind of badly that perhaps Kate's dad could picture. Stefan had eventually stopped, only once had he punched his father and Stefan honestly didn't remember much of that day or the next. He had been in and out of it for most of that time. He could've laughed at what Kate's father said, few really did agree with his father on anything. Most when they found out about Stefan's father were very unlikely to agree with him on anything. He was glad that Kate and Sara's father was nothing like his own. He could tell right from meeting him, that while he appeared strict, it was never to the same extent as his father had been. It was an entirely different kind of strict, Kate's father seemed kind and caring. He was strict when he needed to teach his children to not do certain things. Stefan hadn't had that, his father had been strict with a side of violent. "You and my father are completely different people" he said in response, just before he told Stefan that if he ordered him about he should hex him. Stefan looked at the man as if he was crazy. Why would he do that to someone, for just giving orders? "Sir, I would never hex you, or cast any spell on you." He wondered what it would've been like to grow up in a situation without orders like he'd had. To actually be welcomed, and debate asked for. "And while I appreciate it, I'll just let you know when I don't want to follow a particular order by telling you. A non-magical, non-violent method." Stefan gave the man a small smile. It was a strange situation this. It was a strange meeting. He couldn't believe this man, Stefan wondered if his mother had lived if his father would've been more like this. Completely ok with the idea of magic, of all things like that. His father hadn't ever brought it up, forbidden Stefan from even really mentioning it really. He was glad that Kate had such a wonderful family. Thankful that they cared for her so much. It wasn't necessary for more than just him in their group friends to have been dealt that bad hand. He would always rather it was him than any of them. Getting to speak to Thomas was helpful of this.

When Mr. Moon asked if it was a problem that he was here, Stefan sort of almost remembered where they were. He got so lost in the conversation that he had completely spaced that really he was still at work. However, Stefan knew that it wasn't too much of a bother at all. The man who'd run the store he'd known him a good few years now. "Oh, it's okay. The man who owns this store has been a huge help to me, he doesn't mind." He said with a small sigh, the man really had been a huge help, Stefan had first started by helping the man around his house, and now at the store a few times. A lot less than before. "The store's pretty quiet, I keep him company a lot of the time. He tells me about his life, his family. He remembers when my parents first moved here. He lets me talk about certain details I'd rather Kate didn't really know. Not because I don't trust her, but because they aren't details I want her to know." Stefan shrugged slightly, there were some parts of his past that he liked to avoid completely, but the silence of this store was good to help relax, "Most of the time, we just sit around either reading or arguing about books. He doesn't have much family left, and I'm happy to keep him company." Stefan wasn't sure why he was telling all of this to Thomas it just seemed right. He was always very glad that Kate and Sara were incredibly stubborn. He was sure most would've given up on his eventually. And he was glad that they weren't really going to talk about anything. He was being fairly open and honest with this man. It was just something he knew that he had to eventual do with most. He couldn't keep it all inside him for all of time. It wasn't right. He was however happy when the man finished speaking. "That's all I want too. Honestly." He said with a smile. "I want Kate to be happy, and I want to happy too, and she makes me so happy" He smiled at the man. Then back out at the books, "Do you like books, Thomas?" He asked the man smiling. If he was more like Sara than Kate, as much as Kate loved to read, Sara had been the one to read more. He was sure that this man was probably quite a big reader too. "Feel free to take some, I'll let the owner know. He doesn't know about the magic thing, this is a non-magical store, so you won't run into anything strange here"
​

 

[Thomas Moon]

Twenty-one years ago, Thomas had seen this day coming. He hadn't know what his daughter would look like, but he'd loved her immediately, and so, had known that somebody else would someday. He could remember holding Kate for the first time, he'd just handed Sara to Sophie, their firstborn, and then they'd given him Kate. It had just been the perfect moment, his children, safe and whole. He'd never believed that he could love as much as he loved his kids, and each new child never diminished the love he had for the last. Of course, he didn't verbalise this, it just wasn't the way things were done, but they all knew how much their parents loved them, and he couldn't help but feel sorry for Stefan, who obviously hadn't had that. He was sure his mother had loved him, but she'd died when he was so young, and his father, well he didn't know much, but if his son thought he hated him, he hadn't done a very good job. He nodded at Stefan's comment, it wasn't his place to comment on the boy's father, though as far as he was concerned, somebody who didn't care for and look after their children didn't deserve to have them. He laughed at Stefan's reply. "Well, I didn't expect you to, but asking you to hit me would've been strange. It still surprises me that power doesn't rely on physical strength in your world. I mean, the idea that my girls would be able to immobilise me with a couple of words is, frankly terrifying. They wouldn't, obviously but it's weird." he grinned, but it was a saddening thought. He couldn't protect them anymore. "Well, that works just as well, better in fact. I just don't want to step on any toes, y'know? It's yours and Kate's life now." he'd finally said it, admitted that while he and his wife would always be a part of their childrens' lives, they weren't central anymore, they weren't people they saw daily anymore, and it was soul-destroying. Then again, they'd had more time to get used to it than other parents, their children had spent the majority of the year away from home since they were eleven. He was sure now that his aunt had been a witch, otherwise it was totally improbable that all of his children were. Sara had a theory though, that interested him. Thomas' own father had very little contact with his family; and old English line, and had estranged himself. Sara believed it was possible that his Dad had been a... squib? That he'd been born into a magical family, but without magic, and so; it would make more sense for his grandchildren to be magical. She was looking into it, and Thomas was looking forward to finding out the truth.

Thomas smiled as Stefan spoke about the shop; he obviously enjoyed it here, and who wouldn't? Surrounded by books all day; it was a dream. Thomas was a huge reader, he'd been the one who'd gotten his children into it. He'd rarely read to them when they were young, instead making up stories for them, and eventually, they'd begun reading because they'd learnt to by example. Thomas himself could spend hours on end absorbed in a book. The library in the manor lent itself to this, and when Sophie and the kids were away, it was his solace. He always felt calmest and peaceful when reading, when able to immerse himself in a world that wasn't his own. When the kids were at school, he'd taken to reading their textbooks, so that he could at least help them with the theoretical side of their homework, if not the practical. It had worked well, and had allowed him to be involved in some small way. "Sometimes, it's better to be a need-to-know basis, I understand." he smiled, sure of the fact that Stefan too, wanted to protect his daughter from the evil of this world, and even from his own experiences. His smile broadened as he spoke about the old man. "You're a reader then?" he asked, sipping his coffee, which was almost finished now. It was always good to meet younger people who enjoyed reading. So many of them preferred computers and films, completely oblivious to the joy a good book could bring. He nodded as Stefan once more assured him of his desire to keep Kate happy. "That's all you need, to be happy." he agreed, whether life was hard or easy, if they were happy with each other, and in love with one another, then they would be fine. "Love it, Sophie could be calling me for an hour, and I wouldn't hear if I'm in a good book." he'd always used the phrase 'in' a book, because if a book was absorbing, it felt like you were a part of it, a feeling that couldn't be topped. He laughed aloud at Stefan's suggestion, and beamed. "This is the dream! I'm lucky Kate chose someone who can keep me in books! I'd return them obviously, and if you ever want anything from ours, you can take it; we've a big library, but a lot of it's history and such, which isn't everyone's cup of tea. We're actually thinking of moving to New Zealand, because two of the kids are here, but Ryan's in America, and Star's all over the place.." he trailed off, delighted to have found something in common with the boy. He'd gotten along with his father-in-law, because they'd both loved sport, and he knew how important it was to have a connection.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Stefan, really as the conversation between the two progressed really was beginning to feel incredibly at ease with it, with him. He had not had too much trouble keeping his cool, but he was at least happy that it appeared that the worst of it was over. He had not minded this man coming to talk to him, in Stefan's mind he was just doing what he thought was right, and Stefan with little to no real experience of parenting in this situation was sort of glad. He was happy that it was a man who was incredibly nice and kind. He was pleased that he had met Kate, that Kate and him had really gotten their act together. He could not imagine his life if he was currently alone, and he could not imagine his life if was without Kate. He was glad that this man had raised his children so well. They were kind and stubborn, generous and caring. It was pretty impressive, that good parenting turned out such good children. He wondered if he would've turned out slightly better if his mother had been around, and if his father hadn't been so violent. Stefan was glad when Mr. Moon said that he didn't actually expect Stefan to hit him, that was pretty good to the man. He was sure that it had just been a phrase some used when it came to getting people to stop, but Stefan's experience of hitting was very literal. He nodded along with what the man said, wondering if that too had been a reasoning for the worsening of his father's actions. Fear. Had his father been afraid of what Stefan could do, so he'd make it his task to stop him from being able to do much. He glanced down at the mug in his hands, Stefan had never thought of it like that. To him the two worlds had been very separate, it had never ever occurred to him that his father had not seen it as much. "You know, I think my dad thought the same. Afraid of the magic, and that I could be more powerful than him. It would actually explain a lot of his actions" Stefan looked back up at Thomas, and smiled at him. It was maybe not the best occasion to smile, but he was suddenly thinking that there might've been a better reason for his father's worsening behaviour as time went on. It helped Stefan make sense of some of it. Stefan actually felt happy that he could maybe explain more of his father's behaviour. It meant that it had been his father's fear more than anything which had driven him. Not the mistakes that Stefan had made. Stefan couldn't help but feel happy about it. It wasn't maybe exactly the best reasoning but it was at least some reasoning. Better than anything else that Stefan had come up with.

As the topic shifted on to this book store which Stefan worked in, his smile grew slightly. He owed this place a lot, he loved working here. Working with the old man. He had been a little sad when he'd ended up getting his new job, but Stefan knew that he couldn't always work part-time at a book store, and he did love his job. It was a good job. Simple and didn't require him to put too much work in. He found the work easy. He liked the hours, and the rhythm of it. It was nice, and it was simple. He didn't have to think too much about it really. It was good to see that Kate's father seemed as interested in books as he was. Stefan really did love reading, he liked learning, though had had less chances with it now. He smiled at the man, nodding with him. The old man knew details that Kate didn't know because they were particularly horrible. Not the usual type of horrible, but just the worst of the worst. The stuff that he could barely even think about still. Things that he needed to talk to someone about but never could. Stefan knew that eventually he would probably have to talk to a professional. Someone who specialised in the sort of things that Stefan had been through, just he wasn't ready for that yet. Stefan smiled and nodded at the question. "Yeah, big time. Reading is so great" He said with a smile, "I love getting lost in a story. They have entirely different worlds that you can just get sucked into." He smiled as he spoke. He had loved reading, "Growing up, I only had like three books, but I just read them over and over again. They never got boring" Stefan added. Stefan glanced out at the book shelves as Thomas spoke of his own love for books. Books were so great, Stefan was glad that he shared his daughter's passion for reading, as well as his own. It was a good talking point for the man. It was definitely a good thing that he'd come to the bookstore rather than to the house. They had plenty book there but they had more here. More choice if Thomas wanted to take some. "That's not so much of a worry. I also love history novels. Worlds that are our own, but are a millions miles from it." he said as Thomas said he would return them, he wondered what Kate would think of her parents maybe moving to New Zealand. "Well, if you do move to New Zealand, Kate and I would be more than happy to have you round for dinner. You can meet my extended family, my dad's brother and wife. They'd be incredibly pleased to meet Kate's parents" He smiled at the idea, the meeting of the two families, since Stefan and Kate were to be married, and Stefan lacked traditional parents, his aunt and uncle were the next best thing, and he was sure they'd be more than happy to.
​

Admittedly, this could've been better.

 

[Thomas Moon]

Thomas couldn't help wondering what Stefan would be like when he was Thomas' age. You're core personality rarely changed without miraculous intervention. However, you did change. You grew, you adapted, you matured. Thomas, who'd been quite immature as a younger man had retained his playful nature, but had learned to take responsibility and had become far more reliable. Becoming a father did that, for most people. Stefan seemed a far more serious person than Thomas, and that was probably part of what made he and Kate work. They could trust each other, and let each other in completely. That was what had drawn him to his own wife. Sophie was reliable and trustworthy. He'd been able to be vulnerable with her. He wasn't just 'one of the lads' with her, she could see past his bravado, and he'd be eternally grateful to her. Stefan's smile lit up his eyes, and Thomas grinned. Perhaps it hadn't occurred to Stefan that his Dad had felt that. It must be hard, not understanding your parents. Thomas tried not to let his children know how afraid of their magic he was, but they were smart, they knew. "We fear what we don't understand. For me, I just felt as though their magic was a force that trying to take away my children. That first year, when the girls were gone; I just felt as though I was losing them forever. Your father had already lost your mother, it might've been too much to handle." he admitted; this was the most he'd ever said on the subject. He tried to appear comfortable when the kids used magic, or talked about it, and no doubt if he'd been born with it, he'd love it too, but in reality, he wasn't; and doubted he'd ever be totally at ease with it all. "I'm not going to ask you not to say that to Kate, honesty is the best policy and all that jazz, but... Well, she probably already knows anyway." he added, running a hand through his hair. He'd always been very aware of how easy it would be to make the children feel guilty about their gift, and didn't want to do that. "It's not their job to worry about me, y'know? It's my problem." he finished, hoping that was enough said on the subject. He wasn't going to ask Stefan to keep something from Kate, he just hoped she'd understand if he did tell her. He'd always hated the idea of hiding things from his children, but some things were better not vocalised. He knew they'd just worry, and he didn't want that. He wanted them to live their lives, and he was blessed to be a part of their lives. That was enough.

It was obvious that Stefan loved reading, and that was definitely a point in his favour in Thomas' book. It was doubly impressive this time though, because he knew how difficult it must've been; learning to read when he was colour blind. Upon learning of Stefan's condition, Thomas had (in true Thomas fashion) looked it up, hoping to have some insight into his future son-in-law. He smiled at the fact that Stefan enjoyed his work and tilting his head to one side he asked; "You're working in the school too, aren't you? Do you enjoy it?" He'd always loved kids, hence why he'd become a teacher. Children were far easier to understand than most adults, and far more entertaining. He'd never taught his own children, thank God. Teacher's children always ended up either favoured, or treated more harshly than the other children, which wasn't fair. He frowned at Stefan's mention of his childhood. That was the thing; Stefan didn't act like a victim, and you could easily forget how hard his life had been, but then a throwaway comment could remind you for a moment, and you almost felt guilty for forgetting. "That's the joy of it though, when you really love a book; reading it again just feels like meeting up with an old friend. Books hold memories." he agreed, his momentary distraction barely noticeable. "Well, feel free to visit anytime, and if you're looking for a book, don't hesitate to send us an owl. We usually e-mail the girls, or use the phone though, so that's perfect too." he replied, beaming at Stefan's admission. "You have no idea how wonderful that is to hear. The rest of the family all like the historical novels, and have no interest in the information that was documented at the time. It's all very interesting. Sara, for instance; has always like Anne Boleyn, but would have no interest at all in reading through an account of the Battle of Orange." he added, rolling his eyes. This was turning out to be a very pleasant visit, and the prospect of meeting Stefan's family was extremely inviting. "That would be wonderful. I'd like to meet them." he replied, without even a hint of insincerity. He truly would like to meet Stefan's family, a family that loved him and looked after him, as was right and good. Good family ties were important, and Thomas wanted Stefan to feel like a part of their family. He obviously hadn't had the idyllic upbringing he deserved, and so he deserved to be loved by as many people as possible. Perhaps this was what his daughter had seen, that this boy had somehow, impossibly turned into a good man, and deserved better than he'd gotten.

 

[Stefan Archer]

It had really never occurred to the young librarian that his father had been afraid of his magic and that he might be more powerful than him. That he ran the risk of losing him. Although Stefan Archer wished his father had used a different method of showing him so much. He couldn't help but wonder about his father's actions a lot of the time. It was different for him to really put the blame on one thing over another, though admittedly he had spent most of his life life blaming himself for all of it. At least now he was learning that while some of it was his fault not all of it was his fault. He could not be held accountable for his mother's death, being two at the time, and he could not be held accountable for all the times he'd gotten things wrong with his father because his father had expected too much from a boy too young to be doing any of it. Stefan nodded his head with a small smile, listening to Kate's father's words with the feeling of a lighter heart. "I don't think my father knew how to deal with me not being there. It had just been the two of us for so long" he gave a small sigh when he thought about all those years. "Though, Thomas, sir, I don't think my father was ever afraid for me or my safety, he was more likely to have been afraid of me. Which explains why it got so much worse. Almost like he was trying to get it out of me." He shrugged slightly at this, leaning back on his chair slightly. He glanced at him and just shrugged, if ever it came up, Stefan would not hide it. But, it was also not something he really needed to actively tell her. It wasn't necessary. He nodded along at what he said, knowing that Kate did not really worry about her dad, he knew that she loved him, and he was sure that she also knew that there was only so much that he could do in any one situation. Kate trusted her dad, and it was her trust of her father that helped Stefan trust him. He could understand where Thomas was coming from, why he would be afraid of not being able to protect his children, and wondering if they worried for him. He really like Thomas, the way he was with his children, open and kind. It made Stefan want to be the same with his own children, made him wish his father had been even a little more like it with him. Even just a little bit might've gone a whole lot further into make Stefan's live easier.

At his next question, Stefan just nodded. He had recently begun working there, and while it had been hard to leave the bookstore. "Yeah, I'm one of the librarians." he said with a smile. "It's good, it keeps me busy. I know that it's not the best job, or the most lucrative, but I love it. I love working with books, I love the fact it doesn't really change from day to day. I couldn't be a teacher, or an auror, as far as I've come, I'm not ready for that kind of thing" Stefan had a hard time explaining that what he did was really all he could do. He knew that he couldn't be a teacher like Kate, or an auror like Sara. He liked a simple, small job where he was happy and had enough money to provide for Kate and himself. He however didn't say anything else. Drinking the last of his own coffee as Thomas continued speaking. It was true that those books had always happily welcomed him back. He had loved them back then, and they held many memories. He smiled back at Thomas who seemed really excited in Stefan's own love of historical novels. "I've always liked reading about war, it holds so much" he admitted. Stefan had always loved books on war, though he hadn't really had many until recently. He found stories about men who readjusted after war and had normal lives incredibly interesting. The reasoning was pretty obvious really. He continued to nod at what the man said, he was also sure that his family, the extended parts would want to meet Kate's family. Especially considering that him and Kate were getting married. It would be important that the families at least know one another. "Yeah, that'd love to meet you. They're good people and they've honestly been such a help to me, understanding my family, and what happened. Why they didn't help you know. My cousin, Tybalt, he pretty much sees us as brothers." Stefan laughed lightly at it. He did feel so incredibly blessed with this family which he had. He hadn't ever expected it. Stefan glanced down at his cup and realised it was empty, and then he glanced to Thomas' cup, "Can I get you another cup of coffee, Thomas?" He asked smiling politely at the man.
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[Thomas Moon]

Thomas had never even entertained the possibility of being afraid of his kids; he loved them, more than anything on earth. He feared their power a bit, feared how it would separate them from him, but he'd never feared them. He could understand Stefan's father's fear, but not his actions. When you had a child, it was your duty to protect them and to love them. That was a given, and he couldn't begin to comprehend a man who didn't do that. Especially when you were all the child had in the world. Stefan's mother had died; his father should've gone out of his way to make him feel loved and accepted, but he hadn't, he'd treated his own child badly, like a pariah. Thomas nodded, listening to Stefan's explanation. His father had been afraid. That was hardly an excuse, but he wouldn't contest it if it gave Stefan some small comfort. "It's a shame, there's so much to learn about your world; books to read and such. It's very interesting." Sara had gotten Thomas some books on the history of the magical world, and it was a good read. So much of it explained things that had happened in the muggle world at the same time. He did miss the kids around the house, but he was a busy man, and so he had little time to dwell on loneliness. Anyway; he had Sophie, and they regularly heard from the children, so it was okay. "This whole; second wizarding war business for instance; I was alive during all of that, and I was never aware. Yes, we'd heard about disappearances and such in England, but it was all hidden very well." he noted, shaking his head. It was unbelievable how much the wizarding world was capable of. A war so vicious, and important had been kept from them all. Of course, he'd been very young, but he remembered his parents talking about it later; about that serial killer who'd never been found; Sirius Black. He'd turned out to be innocent of course, but the muggles had simply assumed he'd never been found. He remembered as a kid, the older children used to tell them he was hiding out in Ireland and was going to eat them. He'd had some sleepless nights over that.

Thomas smiled as Stefan spoke about his work. It was good that he was enjoying it; there was nothing like loving the work you were doing. That's why Thomas missed teaching so much. He'd loved being a teacher, and while he enjoyed the fast pace of the financial world, he felt as though he wasn't doing anything of value anymore. "I think you just have to find what works for you really; Kate for instance, we were astounded when she told us she wanted to be a muggle teacher. We'd been sure she'd want to work in the wizarding world. Of course, we're delighted she didn't, it's nice to have one of the kids following in our footsteps, and she'll be a great teacher. She's patient, which is always helpful." Though of course, Stefan knew how patient Kate was. She'd waited for him, she'd stood by him. Kate had an extraordinary ability to see what she wanted and take it, and such was the case with Stefan. She knew he was the person she wanted to be with, and so she was with him. Thomas grinned as Stefan admitted to liking books about war. "The American civil war is one of my favourites. For my fortieth, I was given a big set of DVDs on it; watched them for about two days straight. Very interesting." his family, did not share his enthusiasm. Most of them preferred books centred around relationships and people, rather than events.
"It's a miracle that you found them, after all these years. did they even know where you were all that time?" he asked, stymied. He'd heard of long-lost family members reuniting, but he'd never thought he'd meet someone who'd gone through it. Kate had told him about it of course, excited at there being something positive going on in Stefan's life. "You must've been delighted when you found them." he smiled, understanding why anything good happening to this boy would bring joy to your heart. When Stefan offered him more coffee, he waved his hand. "Oh no, I'm fine. Trying to be healthier in fact, and so Sophie has limited me to two cups a day. Such is twenty-three years of marriage." he replied, but he wasn't serious. He loved his wife, always had. He fervently hoped that his daughter and the man in front of him would be just as happy as they were. "I'm glad I came to see you today Stefan, it's been good to chat to you, and perhaps get to know you a bit better." he grinned. Stefan had always seemed a bit shy around him, and it was good to have a heart-to-heart like this with him. He liked the boy; no man, and hoped that he'd continue to get to know him. He was a part of Kate's life that was important to her, and so; he was important to all of them.

 

[Stefan Archer]

Stefan had to admit that perhaps Thomas had a very valid point. there was so much to learn about the magical world, and his father had chosen to not listen to him. Not even let him talk about it. It would've been nice to talk about what was going on at a school he was completely new to. To talk to about helping with all the problems he'd been having, but Stefan's reality had not been that nice. He could've never gone to his father with a problem, because his father had nine times out of ten been the problem. He had been the issues he'd been having. His father had closed himself off even more to the magical world. Stefan couldn't have convinced his father of the good magic could do, even if he could've promised an endless supply of alcohol. Even the mere mention of getting school supplies had to be perfectly time. Stefan had to get the books and things for school, so he'd always had to ask his father to take him to the wizarding areas so that he would be able to get them. Stefan had always had to time it right, because even on the best of days, his father hated the even slight mention of the school which Stefan had attended. Stefan had always made a point of asking really early on in any of the holidays that he'd spent with the man. Things were always a little better at the start of the holiday. They were always slightly better than nearer the end, when he realised his father had just become panicked again. Stefan knew that what his definition of bad and good were slightly skewed when it came to his father. As he thought about all those times during the holidays with his father, Stefan felt the memories begin to flood back. He realised that Thomas was talking about the second wizarding war, but, Stefan just took the time to close his eyes, and while his head was bent towards the floor, force all those memories away. He couldn't help when they flooded back. It was why he'd even told the man he worked with in this store about his life. When he'd first started working there, there had been many days when for all Stefan tried getting out of bed was too hard. He would just wrap himself in a blanket, drink a few cups of tea and try to will the memories away. The librarian now had a much stronger hold, and it was why he was able to work at the school. Reopening his eyes, Stefan realised that Thomas had begun talking about Kate, and her teaching. Stefan couldn't help the smile that graced his lips at the thought of her. At the work she was doing, and how happy she was. How perfect she would be in that role. "Kate will be an amazing teacher" he agreed with the man. He knew she would be incredible at it. He knew how kind and patient she was first hand.

"Whatever school eventually gets her, will just be so lucky. She is just so kind and patient, those kids she will eventually teach are going to be the luckiest" Stefan nodded as he spoke, unable to help the smile which continued to grace his lips. He raised the coffee cup and finished the coffee quickly. He smiled at the man who had begun talking about the Civil War. Stefan had found it pretty interesting, he'd enjoyed reading about the first hand accounts of it, but it wasn't quite the wars he was interested in. It was still incredibly interesting. As he talked of his new family Stefan just continued to smile. They were everything to him. He couldn't have thought that they would mean so much to him after so many years apart, he had thought that it wasn't possible for him to feel that about any person with the surname Archer, but they had been nothing like the Archer he had grown up with. "They didn't even know I existed" He admitted to the man. Really Stefan had only really talk about his family with Kate. "My father was disowned, and then my grandfather just told the family he'd killed himself. They had no idea where he was, or that I existed" he shrugged slightly. There was no easy way of explaining what exactly had happened during that time. It was both to him and to them a small blur. Stefan didn't blame them, sure he had in the beginning, asking questions like where had they been. Did they never double check. But, he realised they all had their own families and could've never been able to find out. He was lucky that they had now. "They were pretty surprised when they found out about me and about my life" He once again shrugged as if his life had been pretty dull, and nothing had really happened. "Admittedly, I was pretty angry when I found out about them, now, I'm happy to have them. It's better than nothing and I can at least find out about what my parents were like before me." There was a tiny part of Stefan that still blamed everything that had happened to him on his own birth. It was just not evident at all, it was just something that Stefan sort of carried with him. He smiled at Thomas happily when he said he'd been married twenty-three years. Stefan could only wish for such an outcome. he did however nod at what the man said, despite how nervous he'd felt about seeing Thomas in his work, the librarian was glad he'd come. Was glad that Stefan could let him get somethings out into the open, as could Stefan. "I'm glad you came" He said with a smile, "It was to get to know you, and see where she gets it. I'm also thankful for you being so understanding about me, and open towards me. it's always nice."
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