Narcissa Malfoy

Husband,

I received your message. It's all right. I told you it would not matter; we'll simply go another time.

You saw Dolores' latest? I cannot pretend I am anything but relieved to have the SiW taken off my hands (well, you know I was not best pleased to be involved in the first place, nor ever quite sure what I was meant to be doing) but for Merlin's sake. Graceless does not begin to describe the woman.

How you managed all those years, darling, and not end her, I shall never know. To be honest, it gives me new appreciation for your patience, which you know is not your strongest suit.

But nevermind all that: You are well? And Bella, Rod, Raz, Toshenka? Barty? Saw that Ari is back already, along with Augustus, Xerxes and several others. Does that signify progress, I hope?

How is Claudius? The papers have been careful not to make it seem as if he's terribly injured but one can tell there has been a - shift, I suppose. Bella's not too intolerable, I trust. She does so detest managing all the small details.

Everything here is fine, don't worry. Only that I miss you and worry you are taking care of yourself. Is there anything else I can do on this end?

Your waiting,

Narcissa

Barty, so glad you could join us last night. Really, a little quiet supper at home is just what is needed once in a while, especially with the holiday party season rushing upon us at broom-pace. Not that one does not eagerly anticipate all the festivities but they do wear on one's endurance. And one's wardrobe!

A few quick responses, if you'll all indulge me: Maisie, yes, certainly. Wouldn't dream of missing it. And Athena, you may be sure we already have our box reserved and look forward to your reception afterward. As for your kind invitation, Marisa, I regret I am not sure yet whether we shall be - involved - in activities at Hogwarts that night as part of my responsibility to the Sisters in Witchcraft. But if not, then I believe we may drop by for a time. Oh, and Mr Cooper: Yes, we received your note. It's kind of you to think of us. Of course, we shall do our best to attend.

Now, before I go further I need hardly mention that as always, Mr Malfoy and I cannot possibly respond to every invitation we receive. Nor are gifts necessary - please, we appreciate every gesture, truly, but of late we have been overflowing with the bounty of the Protectorate. Thus it is our wish this year that any token you might think to send to our little family go instead to the St Mungo's Auxiliary and the Vale of Health, in recognition of the continued suffering of those tragic victims of Black's Paralysis. We think it only fitting that the tireless efforts of the Healers, Junior Healers and Mediwizards who provide their care should be rewarded, at this time of year especially.

On a related note, I have been fortunate enough to be named to the Nominating Committee of the WI's 'Career Witch of the Year' award. Each year the WI chooses one recipient who exemplifies all those qualities of business acumen, diligence, dedication and effectiveness within the workplace, to which any witch may aspire. I've some ideas, of course, already about whom to include on the ballot. It's gratifying to know so many successful and ambitious women and to have a wealth of possible choices!


Oh, and Rod, I have been giving some thought to that project you mentioned the other day. I've some possible solutions. Shall I find you at St James' Palace if I were to come through this afternoon?