|
|
Post by ginger newts on Jan 21, 2005 23:38:04 GMT -5
The Great Portkey Mix Up “Are you ready Minerva?” Albus called as he knocked on the door to her rooms. She opened the door with a sigh and said, “Yes, I’m ready, but I’m still not happy about this. Why did they have to hold the conference in America of all places? It will be the middle of the night here before it’s over and I’m going to have trouble staying awake.” “I know,” he said, “but the American Ministry of Magic wanted to host the International Educator’s Conference this year. It’s only fair to hold it in a different nation every year.” “I suppose,” Minerva agreed. “Do you have the portkey they sent?” “Right here,” Albus patted his pocket and then looked at her more closely. “You know, my dear, those Muggle trousers suit you quite well. You’ve got very nice legs.” She blushed and looked down at her outfit. The American Ministry had requested that everyone wear Muggle clothes to the meeting because it was being held in the ballroom of a large Muggle hotel in downtown San Francisco. The portkey they had provided would take them directly to the ballroom, but there would be breaks during which they could leave the room and obviously they needed to blend in with the rest of the patrons at the hotel. Minerva did not usually wear pants, but when she had gone shopping the sales girl had assured her that pants were much more in style, and that with the warm weather on the West Coast of the United States she would be glad for the slightly cropped pants and light sweater they had chosen. “Thank you, Albus,” she said after a pause. “You’re looking quite smart yourself. Are you sure the conference will only last a few hours and that we’ll return immediately to Scotland?” “Yes, it’s an eight hour conference with an hour break for lunch and then everyone will return home by portkey,” he confirmed. “Shall we?” Minerva nodded and Albus took the portkey he had been sent by owl out of his pocket. They both placed a hand on the small spherical object and Albus murmured the phrase to activate it, sending them swirling through time and space toward their destination. When they landed, however, they were not in the ball room of an American hotel, but a large empty field surrounded by a dense wood. Darkness was gathering as they looked around in an attempt to take in their surroundings. “Albus, where are we?” Minerva asked in concern. “I’m not sure,” he admitted, stepping protectively closer to her. “Do you see any structures near by, any signs of a town?” “That looks like a barn in the distance,” she answered, pointing across the field to the right. “Whether or not it belongs to an active farm is anyone’s guess. Perhaps we should just apparate back to Hogwarts.” “We don’t know where we are, Minerva,” Albus reminded her. “It may be too far to safely apparate and I don’t want to trust this device as a portkey since it’s already taken us off course once. Perhaps we’re not that far away and we could walk into town and find some sort of transportation to the city.” Before they had taken two steps toward the distant barn the sky opened up and rain began to pour down on them. They stopped moving in surprise and the large drops had soaked them to the skin in moments. Thunder boomed loudly and lighting cut across the sky, hitting a tree about fifteen meters from where they were standing. Minerva gave a cry of surprise and Albus automatically shielded her body with his own. He turned his back to the flaming tree and wrapped his arms around her slender frame, one hand guiding her face into the front of his shirt. She pulled back from him after a few seconds when she had recovered from the shock of the proximity of the lightening. Looking at the burning tree, Minerva raised her voice to be heard over the claps of thunder, “We need to get out of here!” “Come on,” he yelled, grabbing her hand and setting off in a run toward the barn in the distance. They reached the barn and entered through the open back doors. Albus turned immediately to Minerva to ask if she was alright, but her surprised gasp made him whirl around to face the other direction. An older gentleman had paused in the process of putting away his tools to stare at the sudden intruders. For a few moments they all just looked at each other and then Albus stepped forward and addressed the other man. “I’m sorry, sir, please forgive our unexpected arrival. My wife and I were out with some friends this weekend and we got lost from the group when the storm began. Your barn was the nearest place to take refuge and I would be most obliged if you would allow us to wait out the storm here,” he said. The other man shook his bald head and gave them a crooked smile. “‘Friad you folks picked a bad weekend for your trip,” he said, in an accent they couldn’t quite place. “Weatherman said it’s s’posed to rain all night. Why don’t you come on up to the house, the missus should have dinner ready and we’ll get you some dry clothes.” “That’s very kind,” Albus said. “Thank you.” They followed the farmer out of the barn toward the small house that sat a few meters away. On the way they saw a very distraught woman pulling clothes of a line stretched between two trees behind the house. They all entered the small kitchen at about the same time. “Oh, Earl,” the woman cried, “I didn’t get the laundry in before the rain started. I’ll have to wash it all again tomorrow.” She set the laundry basket on the floor in a corner and stood up, a confused look blanketing her face when she saw Albus and Minerva. “Amelia, this is...er,” the man, Earl, turn to Albus. “So sorry. Albus Dumbledore,” he offered the other man his hand. “And this is my wife, Minerva.” “Earl and Amelia Chilton,” the man returned the introduction. “Amelia, they were lost and caught in the storm. I thought maybe they could stay in Joe’s old room for the night.” “Of course,” she smiled kindly. “I’m afraid most of our clothes just got soaked, but I’ll try to find something dry for you to put on. Come on upstairs.” Albus and Minerva followed her up a set of rickety wooden stairs and into a small room to the right. There was a single bed with a coarse gray blanket against one wall, a small wooden dresser against the other, and a threadbare rag rug on the floor. Minerva stopped Amelia on her way back out of the room to look for clothes for them. “I’m sorry, ma’am, could you tell us exactly where we are? I’m afraid we wandered quite a bit this afternoon.” She gave them the name of a very small town that Minerva believed was in Northern England somewhere, at least they were close enough to apparate home in the morning. “Oh good,” Minerva said, “that means we’re not too far from the group, Albus.” “Indeed, my dear,” he agreed with a twinkle in his blue eyes. “I’ll just go and find you some clothes then,” Amelia said as she left the room. When she had gone, Minerva turned to Albus and asked him something she’d been dying to ask since they entered the barn. “Your wife?” she questioned with one eyebrow raised. “It was the simplest explanation I could think of,” he answered with a shrug. “Is it so terrible pretending to be my wife for one night?” She wanted to say not if it included all the benefits of really being his wife, but thought better of it and just said, “No, it’s not.” Before either of them could say anything more, Amelia had returned with what appeared to be a pair of striped men’s pajamas. “I’m sorry,” she said, “but this is all I have that’s dry. I thought maybe you could share? I’ll go downstairs and get you some stew while you change, just leave the wet clothes outside the door and I’ll hang them in front of the stove to dry.” “Thank you,” Albus said as he took the pajamas. He waited for Amelia to leave and then turned to Minerva with a grin, “Well, my dear, would you like the pants or the shirt?” To be continued... I know that's a terrible place to leave off, but I promised Christy I'd post something tonight and I'm too tired to continue. Hopefully you'll get more tomorrow.  |
|
|
|
Post by Sensiblyquirky on Jan 21, 2005 23:44:35 GMT -5
Oh, I love it pal. I cannot wait to see what happens next...shirt or pants...hard choice.  Christy |
|
|
|
Post by Orion's Guard on Jan 22, 2005 1:03:54 GMT -5
I would choose the shirt, definately. I can't wait to see what happens next!
|
|
|
|
Post by Kandice on Jan 22, 2005 1:48:25 GMT -5
I guess it's too much to hope Minerva chose the pants huh since this isn't the lemon section. |
|
|
|
Post by Miss Q on Jan 22, 2005 2:32:10 GMT -5
You're right... it's a terrible place to leave off!!!
But you know what? I doesn't bother me that much if there's another chapter coming!
It was a great start, and I'm curious about whatä's gonna happen!
M
|
|
|
|
Post by Karlynne on Jan 22, 2005 2:35:26 GMT -5
OOOH! Can I choose? I believe you stopped there on purpose just to torment me but I definitely wait impatiently for the update. Karlie |
|
|
|
Post by QuillofMinerva on Jan 22, 2005 3:51:25 GMT -5
;D Ooooooo what a place to stop at!
What a great choice....top or bottoms. Loved that he asked her that.
Great story and I look forward to more soon
Clayre xx
|
|
|
|
Post by Rikki on Jan 22, 2005 8:34:04 GMT -5
Great story - loved the last line. And I would just love to see Min's face at that one. ;D
Update soon.
Hugs, Rikki
|
|
|
|
Post by Hogwarts Duo on Jan 22, 2005 11:33:36 GMT -5
How hilarious! I'd love to see Min's face as Albus asked her whether she preferred the top or the bottom of the pj set! You've just gotta hurry and post the next section of the story! This is fantastic.
|
|
|
|
Post by Krystal on Jan 22, 2005 15:22:13 GMT -5
I think before you update you should take a poll to see who should get the shirt.  I really like this story and can't wait to read more. |
|
|
|
Post by Kassandra on Jan 22, 2005 16:13:21 GMT -5
I thought the ending was hilarious. I want a vote too.
|
|
|
|
Post by ginger newts on Jan 22, 2005 18:34:16 GMT -5
Of course I left off there just to tease you. Sorry to say, I'd already decided who would be wearing which half of the pajamas...but I'd love to see someone else write one where Minerva ends up in the pants. hehe Part 2 She glared at him and snatched the pajama top out of his hands. “Turn around, Albus,” she said primly, turning her back on him. Albus shook his head and chuckled, obediently turning his back to her to change. Secretly, he was happy with these sleeping arrangements. He and Minerva had been flirting with each other for a while now, but their lives at the school were so hectic that it had been difficult to find time to do anything about it. He’d been planning to ask her to dinner after the conference in the hopes that it would be their first date. It was a bit presumptuous of him now, but Albus thought that perhaps spending the night in the same bed and wearing one pair of pajamas between them could help them grow much closer than one dinner would have. “Are you dressed?” he called over his shoulder to Minerva once he had the pajama pants on. “If you can call this dressed, then I suppose I am,” she answered tartly. “I don’t suppose we could...” “No,” he cut her off. “If we used magic it would look very odd if they found us. I’d hate to have to obliviate these nice people.” “I know,” she sighed, turning around to face him. Albus turned around and the witty comment he had been about to make died on his lips when he took in Minerva’s appearance. She looked absolutely enchanting in the too large men’s button down shirt with her long slender legs flowing from the bottom, completely exposed to his eyes. Her long dark hair hung in dripping waves down her back and her face was flushed both from the weather and the positively adorable way she was blushing under his appreciative gaze. For her part, Minerva was trying very hard not to return his stare as she took in Albus’ exposed upper body. He was lean and well muscled, with just a bit of softness around his mid-section, no doubt from eating so many sweets. With his beard and hair shortened in order to blend in with Muggles she had an excellent view of his physique. Pulling himself together, Albus gathered up their wet clothes and put them in the small hallway outside the door. A tray was waiting there for them with two bowls of steaming stew, half a loaf of homemade bread, and two mugs of hot coffee. He brought the tray inside and they sat together on the bed, balancing the tray between their laps to eat the simple but wonderful meal. An awkward silence descended between them as they both thought about the small bed they would have to share for the night. Minerva ate slowly, trying to prolong the moment they would have to crawl into the tiny bed where she would be closer to Albus than she ever dreamed possible. The thought of sleeping so close to him filled her with both giddiness and anxiety and her stomach fluttered as she imagined him holding her through the night. She shook herself, he would probably make a gentlemanly attempt to avoid any contact with her as they slept. When they finished eating Albus returned the tray to the hallway and returned to the room in time to catch a wonderful view of the backs of Minerva’s thighs as she climbed into bed. With a shy smile, he moved to join her. When he first got into the bed they were lying on their sides facing each other, but the close proximity of the other’s face made them each nervous so they rolled away from each other. Minerva found herself with her face pressed into the wall and rolled back over with a sigh. “Albus, this isn’t going to work,” she complained. “The bed is too small.” He turned onto his back to look at her, a sudden idea entering his mind. “I think we can make it work, my dear,” he said. “Do you mind?” She shook her head and allowed him to reposition her so that she was lying on her side pressed against him with her head pillowed on his chest. Albus wrapped his arms around her waist and asked if she was more comfortable now; Minerva signaled that she was by laying her arm across his stomach. A sudden mischievousness overtook her and with a smile she began to tickle his stomach. Albus gasped in surprise and squirmed under her touch, he was extremely ticklish. “Minerva, stop,” he gasped. Her only reply was an uncharacteristic giggle as her hand moved higher toward his chest. Albus caught her offending hand by the wrist and rolled her onto her back, pinning her hand above her head. This resulted in Albus lying half on top of Minerva with their faces so close their noses were almost touching. For a moment they both forgot to breathe and then suddenly the distance closed and their lips met. Neither was sure who had made the first move to close the gap, whether Albus had lowered his head or Minerva had raised hers, perhaps they both moved together. In the end, it didn’t matter who had initiated the kiss because it was the most wonderful sensation either of them could remember. Albus’ hand traveled down Minerva’s arm to her side and her now freed arm found its way around his neck, her other hand resting against his bare chest. She felt Albus smile against her lips as the kiss broke and a moment later he was grinning down at her. Minerva returned his smile as she played with a lock of his hair. “What do you say we try to get some sleep,” he asked, lying down beside her again. Minerva nodded and moved back into his arms. She pressed a soft kiss to his chest before resting her head upon it as his arms encircled her. They both drifted quickly into a deep and restful sleep, dreaming of the kiss they had just shared. When they woke again the sun was shining and a rooster was crowing somewhere outside the house. Minerva sighed and stretched before looking up into Albus’ face. “Good morning,” he greeted her cheerfully. “I trust you slept well?” “Very well,” she agreed with a smile. “And yourself?” “Best sleep I’ve had in quite a while,” he answered. Before either of them could say more, there was a knock on the door and Amelia’s voice met their ears. “I have your clothes,” she said. “They’re dry now and after you’ve changed you can come down for breakfast.” Albus rose from the bed and opened the door to take their clothes from her. “Thank you so much,” he said. “We’ll be down very soon.” When Minerva threw back the covers to get up, Albus saw that her nightshirt had risen in her sleep to reveal the very tops of her legs and a flash of her knickers before she stood and it fell back to cover her slightly more. Her hair was disheveled and there was a large red spot on her cheek where it had been pressed against him all night. He thought she looked gorgeous and decided that Minerva McGonagall first thing in the morning was a sight he wanted to view much more frequently. She took her clothes from him and turned around both to change and to hide her blush. Minerva couldn’t remember ever blushing so much in one day before, but then she thought that this sort of situation wasn’t anything she had ever experienced before. They changed quickly and then joined Earl and Amelia in the kitchen for a very large breakfast. Minerva offered to help with the dishes, but her offer was declined so they decided to set off for home. “Do you need a ride into town?” Earl asked. “Oh, that’s very kind, but no thank you,” Albus answered. “I believe we can find our way back to the group’s campsite from here. My dear, are you ready?” “I am,” Minerva answered as she stood to join him. They thanked the Chiltons once more for their kind hospitality and set off back toward the field they had arrived in. Looking back over their shoulders to ensure they weren’t being followed, Albus and Minerva pushed their way into the dense woods surrounding the field and walked until they were sure no one could see them. “Are you ready?” Albus asked, offering Minerva his hand. “Yes,” she smiled and put her hand in his before they apparated together to the gates of Hogwarts. As they walked toward the school, still holding hands, Minerva voiced something that had been bothering her since the previous evening. “Albus, what do you think happened with the portkey? Why were we sent so far off course?” “I don’t know,” he said thoughtfully. “I’ve never heard of that happening before, unless of course the portkey was made by someone extremely inept. I’ll send a letter to the American Ministry first thing.” |
|
|
|
Post by ginger newts on Jan 22, 2005 18:35:48 GMT -5
However, when they reached Albus’ office they found a letter hovering above his desk flashing the word URGENT in bright red letters. Albus reached out for the letter and opened it, reading aloud to Minerva.
Dear Professors Dumbledore and McGonagall,
We would first like to apologize for the grievous error that was made in your transportation. Through the fault of no specific individual, all the portkeys created for the International Educator’s Conference were set up incorrectly. As a result, everyone was sent to a different destination. We hope that you were able to return home safely and easily from where ever it was that you inadvertently arrived.
The conference has been rescheduled for next weekend and we have decided to allow each participant to arrange his or her own travel. Should you need assistance with international portkeys or to arrange a Muggle air flight, our Ministry would be happy to answer any questions and help you in anyway we can.
We understand that some educators may already have alternate commitments for next Saturday, so we ask that you drop us a line to tell us whether or not you will be attending the conference.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation and again, we apologize for any inconvenience you may have experienced.
Rachel DeBuss
American Minister of Education
Michael Ross
Headmaster, San Francisco School of Magic
Albus immediately dashed off a letter to give their regrets and inform the Americans that they would be unable to attend the rescheduled conference.
“We’re not going?” Minerva asked in surprised.
“We could, I suppose,” Albus replied with a twinkle in his eyes, “but I thought that instead you might agree to accompany me to a wonderful bed and breakfast I know in Stratford. We can see the Royal Shakespeare Company and go for a stroll along the river. And of course,” he grinned, “the bed will be much larger.”
“I would like that very much,” Minerva agreed with a smile, taking a step closer to him.
He put his arms around her shoulder and drew her close, stroking her cheek with one long finger. “I’ve been waiting a long time for a chance to have you all to myself, Minerva,” he said softly. “Almost all of this past school year I waited for an opportunity to ask you on a date, I wish there was more time to have a personal life inside this school.”
She laughed softly, “I couldn’t agree more, Albus, but it’s finally summer now. We have two months to ourselves before the children return, let’s not waste another day.”
“My thoughts exactly,” he murmured, lowering his head to hers for a sweet kiss.
They spent most of the rest of the day sitting on Albus’ couch, cuddling and planning their trip the next weekend. Minerva’s legs were draped casually across his lap and Albus was absentmindedly tracing circles on the outside of her thigh as he gazed into her eyes. They shared a quiet dinner in Albus’ sitting room and then played a friendly game of chess before deciding to call it a night.
Albus walked Minerva to her rooms in Gryffindor Tower and bid her goodnight with a gentle kiss.
“Breakfast in the Great Hall at eight?” he asked as she opened her door.
“I’ll see you then,” she agreed with a smile. “Good night, Albus.”
“Good night, my dear.”
Minerva entered her rooms to prepare for bed and Albus hummed a happy tune as he strode through the corridors back to his own rooms. As he prepared for bed, he didn’t think the week would pass fast enough. He couldn’t wait for his romantic weekend away with Minerva. The idea to take her to Stratford upon Avon had come to him over breakfast as he tried to determine the perfect place to take her. Knowing her love for Shakespeare and history, he had decided that the Bard’s hometown would be the perfect place for a mini-vacation. There would be plenty to keep them busy during the day and at night he could hold her while they slept, though he had to admit to himself that he was hoping for more.
I'm going to attempt to write their weekend, but it will probably take me a few days. I have some reading I really need to do for class first and I sort of need some more inspiration. Though I could be mean and end it here....
|
|
|
|
Post by Karlynne on Jan 22, 2005 21:31:50 GMT -5
I'm supposed to be dressing for dinner but instead I am reading and reviewing but I couldn't wait to read the next part. I thoroughly enjoyed the update and am looking forward to the next part. Karlie
|
|
|
|
Post by Sensiblyquirky on Jan 22, 2005 22:10:40 GMT -5
I love the second part, and the pace! Please do their weekend together! I just love this. Christy |
|
|
|
Post by Hogwarts Duo on Jan 22, 2005 23:39:18 GMT -5
Noooo!! Don't be mean and end it there! Pretty please write their weekend in Stratford upon Avon. It's a beautiful place and I can't wait to see how things go for them! ^_^
|
|
|
|
Post by Miss Q on Jan 23, 2005 2:28:33 GMT -5
A lovely second part!
And I look forward to read about their weekend together! If you need a little longer to write it, I don't mind!
M
|
|
|
|
Post by Nerweniel on Jan 23, 2005 14:21:46 GMT -5
Write More Soon... hear these three legendary words ;D. They are so freaking cute, and I want to read more fluffiness soon . Love, Baby Sister |
|
|
|
Post by QuillofMinerva on Jan 23, 2005 15:40:50 GMT -5
Oh that was a great update! I loved the interaction between them as they shared the bed.
I am looking forward to their weekend away
Clayre xx
|
|
|
|
Post by griseldalafey on Jan 23, 2005 18:14:50 GMT -5
Long live the instable Portkeys  Lovely story, I like them being forced to share a bed ;D Can't wait to read about their weekend
|
|
|
|
Post by mugglemin on Jan 24, 2005 17:44:26 GMT -5
Ooh! I went to Stratford upon Avon the other week and went to see the RSC. If you need a few descriptions, give me a mail. (If you haven't been there yourself, of course.) I really liked this story, and am definately looking forward to their weekend. It was a VERY effective way of getting them into bed together! I had to laugh at the Northern farmer called "EARL" though. EARL?  !!!! Bit unusual for round here. They're all called Giles or Marmaduke. Or Bob. mugs.x |
|
|
|
Post by Ginger Newts on Jan 24, 2005 18:44:55 GMT -5
Ooh! I went to Stratford upon Avon the other week and went to see the RSC. If you need a few descriptions, give me a mail. (If you haven't been there yourself, of course.) I had to laugh at the Northern farmer called "EARL" though. EARL? !!!! Bit unusual for round here. They're all called Giles or Marmaduke. Or Bob. mugs.x I have been there actually, that's one reason I chose it. But thanks. Sorry if the name was odd, chosing names isn't my favorite part of making up OCs. I had originally thought I'd strand them somewhere in America since that's where they were headed, but it didn't work out for it to be evening there. I'm working on the next bit, just to let everyone know. Hopefully you won't have to wait long. |
|
|
|
Post by Kassandra on Jan 25, 2005 0:55:11 GMT -5
Just sitting here with a friend reading your stories and I had to show her your latest one. I can't wait until you update again. |
|
|
|
Post by ginger newts on Jan 26, 2005 17:43:18 GMT -5
Chapter 2
The week passed much more quickly than either Albus or Minerva had thought it would, for which they were both glad. Several times, Minerva had entered Albus’ office only to be shoved back out the door with a quick kiss or to catch him hastily putting several sheets of parchment inside a drawer. He insisted on keeping all the details of their weekend a secret; all he would tell her was that everyone they would be dealing with except the landlady of the bed and breakfast would be Muggle.
Since she didn’t know what they would be doing, Minerva decided to focus on what she would be wearing on the trip. After going through her small selection of Muggle summer clothes, she remembered that Albus had complimented her legs several times and decided to capitalize on that information. She spent an afternoon in Muggle London shopping for attractive pants and slightly shorter skirts. The salesgirls were quite eager to help after Minerva explained that she was updating her wardrobe for a romantic weekend with a suitor who thought she had nice legs.
She left the shop with more clothes than anyone could possibly need for a three-day weekend, but very pleased with her selections. Minerva had purchased several pairs of pants and skirts that could be mixed and matched with the selection of sweaters and blouses she had chosen in an array of colors. In the event of a more formal occasion, she had been talked into a royal blue dress with a narrow waist line and a flared skirt that fell to just above her knees. The front of the dress scooped fairly low, but showed very little cleavage, while the back was almost completely open. Rounding out her many outfits were two pairs of casual yet attractive sandals and a pair of open toed high heels to go with the dress. Much to her annoyance, Minerva had also been forced to purchase a purse in order to carry any items she may need during the day. She hated not just having a large pocket or two in her robes.
On Friday morning Minerva packed her new clothes carefully in her tartan carpet bag. She had also stopped off at the last moment in a store she had passed on the way back from buying her new clothes. There, she had purchased all new undergarments and a nightgown she hoped Albus would find attractive. These were hidden discretely in the bottom of her bag as she wasn’t yet comfortable with the idea of him looking at her more personal items...at least not without her in them.
She met Albus in his office around ten with her bag, she had decided to wear her white pants with a light pink sweater set and the white sandals.
“Are you ready to go?” he asked with a nervous smile. He thought she looked amazing and made a note to say so when they arrived.
“Yes,” she answered and then frowned. “Albus, how are we getting there? Please say we’re not taking a portkey?”
Albus laughed, “Well, I’ll admit I considered it, but then I thought that you might prefer a different method of travel after our recent adventures.”
“You were correct,” she said crisply.
“So, I contacted the woman who runs the establishment. I believe I mentioned that she is a witch, although her main clientele is Muggle?” Minerva indicated that he had so he continued, “She arranged for us to floo directly into our room where she will be waiting to check us in.”
“That sounds perfect,” Minerva said with obvious relief.
“I agree, so if you’re ready you may go first. The name of the house is Katherine’s Kottage.”
Minerva nodded her understanding and took a pinch of floo powder from the container Albus offered her. After a moment she disappeared in a whirl of green flames and Albus stepped into the fireplace to join her. They were greeted on the other side by a very kind looking woman. Katherine was considerably shorter than Minerva and a bit plump, with fly away gray hair. Minerva guessed that their host was probably close to Albus’ age, though the smile on her face and the laugh lines around her eyes attested to her youthful nature.
“Welcome to my house,” she said pleasantly. “This is your room and if you need anything while you are here please don’t hesitate to ask. In the mornings I serve breakfast in the dining room at eight, the sitting room and library are always open to my guests, and I lock up at midnight. However, if you know that you will be later than that just let me know and we will make arrangements. You share a bathroom with one other couple, it is directly across the hall, and my room is up one more flight of stairs should you need anything at night. I also employ a cook and a maid who can assist you in my absence. Do you have any questions?”
Albus and Minerva answered in the negative and Katherine left them to unpack. The room was simply but beautifully decorated. A large bed took up most of one wall and directly across from it was a window overlooking the garden. A small vanity table with a mirror stood against another wall and there was a closet with several shelves inside. Albus and Minerva placed their bags on top of the bed and began to unpack. When Albus saw the dress Minerva had brought he decided to find the perfect place to take her so that she could wear it one evening. Minerva decided to leave her nightgown and undergarments hidden in her bag so that Albus would be surprised when he saw them. Hopefully pleasantly surprised. She closed the clasp on her bag and set it carefully on the floor of the closet.
“Well, Albus, you’re the tour guide. Where to first?” she asked with a smile when everything was put away.
He smiled, “I thought we would just walk around this morning. Enjoy the beautiful weather and reacquaint ourselves with the town. How does that sound?”
“That sounds perfect,” she agreed.
Albus offered Minerva his arm, but she took his hand instead and laced their fingers together. He was grinning like a fool as they stepped out of the house and headed for town. The gardens were in full bloom and the river was filled with boaters so that Albus and Minerva felt they had stepped into a perfect summer scene. They strolled slowly around the small park and looked in a few shops, mostly just content to enjoy each other’s company and watch the other people. They ate lunch in a small pub and then Minerva wanted to pass by the two theatres and see what plays were running, but Albus wouldn’t let her. He knew she would guess which one he had purchased tickets to see and wanted it to remain a surprise.
They spent a large part of the afternoon sitting in the small park and watching people pass by. Albus put his arm around Minerva’s shoulder and she leaned against him with a contented sigh.
“Today has been truly relaxing, Albus,” she said after a while. “I don’t have a clue what you have planned for the rest of the weekend, but I already want to thank you for bringing me. I’m having a wonderful time.”
“I’m glad you’re enjoying yourself,” he said, kissing the top of her head. “Have I told you yet how wonderful you look today?”
“I don’t believe you have,” she answered with a hint of amusement in her voice.
Albus smiled, “Well then I suppose I had better do so. You look simply beautiful today, I love your new summer outfit. There is only one suggestion I would make if it won’t offend you.”
Minerva sat up and looked at him with a warning in her eyes, but he just chuckled and reached behind her to remove the elastic tie from the end of her braid. Albus’ long fingers combed out the plait and her long ebony hair fell loosely down her back.
“Much better,” he murmured before kissing her lightly and pulling her back into his arms.
|
|
|
|
Post by ginger newts on Jan 26, 2005 17:44:16 GMT -5
They sat that way in silence for a while, Albus running his fingers gently through Minerva’s hair, until a middle aged couple sat next to them on the bench. Albus and Minerva smiled and nodded politely to them and were about to re-enter their own little world when the other woman spoke.
“Are you tourists as well or do you live here in town?” she asked.
“We’re just here for the weekend,” Albus answered.
“Same here,” replied the other man. “Thought we should bring the kids to see the birthplace of Shakespeare, hopefully inspire them to read his plays.”
“Of course they’re ‘round the corner shopping in M&S,” his wife said with a sigh. “Do you have any children?”
Albus and Minerva shared a smile before Minerva answered the question. “None of our own,” she said gently,” but we work in a boarding school so we tend to think of our students as our children.”
“Oh, you work together!” the other woman exclaimed. “How convenient, and how sweet. How long have you been married?”
Minerva was about to answer honestly when she heard Albus say, “Thirty years tomorrow.”
She looked up at him in surprise and saw his tiny wink just in time to accept the congratulations of the other couple with a gracious smile. Albus tightened his hold on her and beamed at the other man.
“But it feels like only last week,” he said with a wink.
The other man laughed and his wife said, “That’s so sweet. The two of you are just adorable and you look as happy together as newlyweds.”
“Thank you,” Minerva said softly. “And yourselves, how long have you been married?”
“Twenty years,” the man said just as two cries of “Mum! Dad!” met their ears.
Two teenage girls were hurrying toward them carrying several shopping bags from many different stores. “Mum, dad,” the youngest one said, “you’ve got to see what Mary and I found. Come on!”
“Excuse us,” their mother said apologetically to Albus and Minerva. “It was nice to meet you and congratulations again.”
“Nice to meet you,” they echoed.
After the family had gone Minerva turned to Albus, who answered her question before she could ask it. “I didn’t think it would hurt to play along with their expectations,” he said. “Besides, I quite like telling people you’re my wife,” he added with a grin.
Minerva could only shake her head and laugh, but as they got up to find a restaurant for dinner she couldn’t help wondering if Albus would ever make their marital status a reality rather than a game of pretend.
Over dinner they decided that after breakfast the next morning they would pay a visit to Shakespeare’s childhood home and the museum. The afternoon would be spent relaxing and preparing for the play and a late dinner. Albus made a mental note to ask their landlady about the best place in town for a romantic post-theatre dinner. He wanted to treat Minerva to all the nice things she deserved and give her an opportunity to wear that stunning dress she had unpacked earlier.
Deciding to call it a night early and make the most of the vacation, Albus and Minerva went back to the bed and breakfast after dinner. They walked slowly down the roads, holding hands and enjoying quiet conversation. The couple they were sharing a bathroom with didn’t appear to be back yet when they arrived at Katherine’s Kottage so Minerva gathered her things and went to prepare for bed. She washed her face and brushed her teeth and hair before slipping into the nightgown and inspecting her appearance in the full length mirror. Pleased with what she saw, Minerva pulled on her dressing gown and belted it tightly before returning to the bedroom.
Albus took his turn in the bathroom and returned to find Minerva sitting up in bed waiting for him.
“This looks much more comfortable than last week,” he said with a smile.
“I don’t know,” Minerva said thoughtfully. “You make a very good pillow.”
Albus removed his dressing gown and Minerva couldn’t quite suppress the giggle that arose at the sight of his old fashioned nightshirt.
“What’s so funny?” he asked, pretending to look hurt. “I know it’s a bit eccentric, but it’s comfortable. You know I hate pants.”
“I know,” she smiled and invited him to climb into bed, which he did gladly. “And you’ve had to wear them all day, poor dear. I like the nightshirt,” she declared decisively.
“I’m glad,” Albus said. As he lifted the covers to scoot closer to her, he got a better view of her new nightwear. The red silk and lace gown fell all the way to her ankles with slits up both sides to her hips and he had an overwhelming urge to ask her to get up and model it for him. “Minerva,” he said in a slightly strained voice, “you look amazing. What are you doing hiding under the blankets?”
“I wanted to surprise you,” she admitted with a blush, “but I was also nervous about your reaction.”
In response, Albus pulled her into his arms and kissed her soundly. Minerva wrapped her arms around his neck and pressed her body into his. Albus ran his tongue along her bottom lip and then used it to gently part her lips. She responded with a small moan and happily helped him to deepen the kiss. He tasted every inch of her mouth and then engaged her tongue in a sensual battle that left them both breathless. When they finally broke apart, Albus rested his forehead against Minerva’s and ran his hands gently up and down her back.
They spent a long time exchanging heady kisses and gentle caresses and eventually realized they had somehow shifted to lie on the bed. Minerva found herself lying on top of Albus and she propped herself up on one arm to look down into his face. With a happy dreamy expression in her eyes she raised her free hand and gently traced the contours of his face before leaning down and pressing gentle kisses to his eyelids, the tip of his nose, and the corners of his mouth before reclaiming his lips.
When that kiss broke she looked down at him lovingly. “I’m kind of tired now,” she admitted slowly.
He smiled, “Then let’s try to get some sleep.”
Minerva kissed him lightly again and then settled in beside him. He kissed her forehead and wrapped his arms around her slender frame. She was more tired than she had realized moments ago and drifted off to sleep quickly. Before she was fully asleep, however, she heard Albus whisper, “Sleep well, love.”
Minerva fell asleep with a happy smile on her face, knowing she had at last found love.
to be continued....
|
|
|
|
Post by Sensiblyquirky on Jan 26, 2005 17:54:18 GMT -5
too wonderful, pal. Just what I needed: something to make me smile all goofy. I've been to Stratford and I could see where they might be. Loved it!! Christy |
|
|
|
Post by griseldalafey on Jan 26, 2005 18:16:23 GMT -5
Aw.... *deep sigh* What a sweet chapter I'm all fuzzy now.
Thanks for the update, I can't wait to read the next part.
|
|
|
|
Post by Karlynne on Jan 26, 2005 20:13:21 GMT -5
That was such a simply romantic day. Walking around together able to talk and just spend time with each other. I can't wait for more of their weekend although I'm already green with envy.
|
|
|
|
Post by Kassandra on Jan 26, 2005 21:01:24 GMT -5
This is very good. I like the weekend so far and how relaxing yet romantic it is.
|
|
|
|
Post by Hogwarts Duo on Jan 26, 2005 21:20:41 GMT -5
What a lovely start to the weekend and I'm really glad Albus noticed her dress and decided to take her out on the town. The wonderful bit was when he led the other couple believe they were married...awwww! Love the fluffy bit at the end of this chappie too...woo hoo!
|
|
I really like this story and can't wait to read more. 
Lovely story, I like them being forced to share a bed ;D Can't wait to read about their weekend
!!!! Bit unusual for round here. They're all called Giles or Marmaduke. Or Bob.