Is That My Daughter?

[griseldalafey]

Evil, evil cliffie.

But nice chapter. I'm glad Brianna is not that mad anymore. Can't wait until the next part

[Lady Lavendar]

A cliff hanger??? it was just getting to the good part!!! and you had to put a cliff hanger! Well the next chapter better be up in about three hours or I'll be really mad! J/K!!

Lady Lavendar

[ginger newts]

Chapter 6 (with the not so long awaited lemon)

Albus and Minerva began to make their dreams come true. As their tongues battled fiercely their hands roamed over the other’s body. Albus lowered his head to Minerva’s neck and she fumbled with the many tiny buttons on his nightshirt, giving a small cry of triumph when she gained enough ground to push it back off his shoulders and expose his upper body. Her cool hands played across his skin before she pushed herself further down the bed and began planting feather light kisses across his chest while opening the rest of his buttons. Albus groaned in pleasure and ran his hands down her sides, searching for the hem of her nightgown.

Before he pulled it off he paused and waited until Minerva looked up into his eyes. “Are you sure about this?” he asked. “We can stop if this is too much too soon.”

She reached up and cupped his cheek, drawing his face down to hers for a sweet kiss. “Albus, it’s been twelve years. I need you and believe me when I say I have never wanted anything more.”

That was all the reassurance he needed to deftly draw the nightgown over her head before tenderly making love to her into the wee hours of the morning. This time they were both sober and much more conscious of their actions than they had been during their previous night together. All they really remembered from the last time was that it had been an incredible experience and the way things were going they were both certain that their second night together would be even better.

Albus tenderly ran his hands over Minerva’s body before letting his lips and tongue follow, stopping occasionally to suck and nip at particularly sensitive areas. Her body responded quickly and eagerly to his ministrations and it wasn’t long before she thought the teasing would drive her crazy. She was tenderly stroking his back and shoulders as he moved over her and when she arched her hips upward to meet his Albus let out a deep groan of pleasure and desire. She continued moving against him as much as possible from her position pinned beneath him.

When he moved down to her legs Minerva could only bury her hands in his thick, slightly grayed, auburn hair, holding his face close to her trembling limbs. Albus took his time massaging her legs, tracing tiny patterns up the back with his long fingers, and planting kisses on her inner thighs before finally attacking the area where she needed him most with his lips and tongue. It gave him great pleasure and a strange sense of masculine pride to hear her call his name into the night as her hips began to buck uncontrollably.

Sliding back up her body, Albus held her until she calmed down enough to begin her assault on him. Minerva took her time in awakening his body and trying to learn his most responsive areas. As her delicate hands and warm tongue worked their way down his body Albus felt a passion welling up in him that he had rarely known before. By the time she reached the part of him that needed her attention most, he could no longer stand the teasing. Swiftly rolling her onto her back he kissed her deeply before raising his head to look into her eyes as he gently joined them. He saw an overwhelming amount of love and desire in the green pools now darkened from their passion that he knew was reflected in his own blue eyes.

Just being inside her nearly drove him over the edge and the added sensation of her lips on his neck caused him to increase his pace in an effort to bring her with him over the edge. For her part, Minerva had very nearly exploded when he first entered her and sensing his increased need excited her more and pushed her closer to the edge. Waves of passion rippled through both their bodies, building toward the point of no return, and it wasn’t long before those waves crashed together and they collapsed against the bed in a tangle of perspiration covered arms and legs, hearts beating double time, breath coming raggedly.

Albus rolled onto his side, bringing Minerva with him and they continued to gently caress each others sated bodies while they waited for their breathing and heart rates to slow. Eventually, their bodies calmed down and cooled off again and Albus pulled the comforter over them, the sheet had been lost somewhere in the process of their love making, and they exchanged a loving kiss before finally succumbing to slumber still wrapped in each others arms.

When they woke up on Saturday morning, happy and fulfilled, the sun had already risen high into the sky. They had missed breakfast in the Great Hall so Albus summoned a tray for them from a house elf and then they dressed quickly and headed out to the Quidditch pitch. Minerva had transfigured a ribbon for her hair in Gryffindor red and gold and she searched the Gryffindor section of the stands for Brianna as Albus led her into the teachers’ box. He reintroduced her to the professors who had been at Hogwarts during her student days and made polite introductions to the two newest staff members, Filius Flitwick and Mark Kettleburn.

Alistair Crouch arrived just as Albus and Minerva were taking their seats. “Oh, I see the teacher’s box has been opened to visitors today,” he sneered.

Minerva shuddered and subconsciously moved closer to Albus when she took in the cold malicious way her former Potions professor was looking at her. She had always know that Professor Crouch didn’t like her, Minerva blamed it on house loyalties, but he had never looked so openly hateful toward her.

Armando Dippet had come out for the game today and he spoke up on Minerva’s behalf, “It’s quite alright, we have always welcomed parents and alumni at our games. The more the merrier, especially when the guest is as big a Quidditch fan as Ms. McGonagall.”

Minerva gave him a small smile, “Thank you, Headmaster, it’s nice to be here again.”

Albus turned to smile at her as he laid his arm casually across her back so that he missed the calculating look Alistair gave them as he sat down on Dippet’s left, but Minerva did not.

“Headmaster, would you be available for a brief conference after the game?” Alistair asked loudly enough for everyone to hear. “A certain situation has come to my attention that I believe you would do well to address.”

“Of course, of course,” Armando said absently, his attention on the players who had just entered the pitch.

It was a tense, but spectacular match. Slytherin took an early lead because the Gryffindor Chasers still had not quite mastered the art of working as a unit, but after a breathless race and a marvelous dive the Gryffindor Seeker caught the snitch and they won 210-190. The red and gold section of the stands went wild and Minerva couldn’t stop herself from jumping to her feet and cheering with them, causing some of the professors to chuckle at her enthusiasm.

“Once a Gryffindor, always a Gryffindor, I suppose,” the Herbology professor said.

Minerva blushed a little, but smiled at them all, “Nothing wrong with having a little pride in your house.”

The rest of the staff filed out around them and Albus turned to Minerva to question why she seemed to be rooted to the bench.

“I think it’s time for me to go home now,” she said, looking down at her hands. “I’m going to miss you.”

Albus looked down at her sadly and pulled her into his arms, her head coming to rest comfortably against his shoulder. “I suppose you’re right. I’m going to miss you too, my dear, but we’ll stay in touch. Maybe I can get a few hours off next weekend and come visit you.”

“That would be wonderful.” She pulled back and looked deeply into his eyes, “Albus, promise me we won’t drift apart again.”

“I promise, Minerva, nothing will come between us this time,” he leaned down and kissed her tenderly yet passionately. “I promise,” he repeated in a whisper.

Minerva buried her head against his chest and wrapped her arms around his waist, trying to memorize his scent and the feel of his solid warmth against her body. She couldn’t remember ever having so much difficulty saying good bye to anyone. They sat there in the stands for a long time just holding each other until Minerva finally decided that the longer she stayed the harder it would be to leave. Albus walked her down to the gates where she could apparate home and before she left they shared one last lingering kiss and promised again to communicate often. Minerva took a few steps away from Albus and vanished with a soft pop, leaving him staring at the place she had previously occupied for a few minutes before turning and going inside to his office.

[ginger newts]

While Albus and Minerva were saying their good byes, Alistair had followed the headmaster back to his office to discuss their situation.

“Headmaster, I don’t know if you are aware, but Albus Dumbledore is the father of one of our students. Not only is he not married to the girl’s mother, but she used to be his student as well. Also, I have personally witnessed him flaunting our by-laws once again by bringing this woman into his quarters here at school. Surely you cannot allow a member of your staff, and the deputy headmaster no less, to show such a blatant disregard for every guideline set down by the governors.”

Armando sighed, “Alistair, please calm down. I am aware of Albus’ relationship to Miss McGonagall and her mother. In fact, I believe I know more about it that you do.” He did not, of course, but as the headmaster he had to at least seem informed about all goings on at the school. “Ms. McGonagall was here this week because her daughter was very ill and I think we can excuse her extended stay. She deserved to attend a Quidditch game after the week they all had.”

“Are you aware that the relationship began when she was a student?”

“Alistair,” Armando said in a warning tone, “you tried to start that same rumor twelve years ago. Professor Dumbledore has always been above reproach in his dealings with the students and I am confident that you are wrong in this matter.”

“But, Headmaster, surely you know that the Hogwarts staff is forbidden from beginning relationships with even former students. Besides that, there is the disgrace of a senior member of your staff being the father of a bastard child. Something must be done to protect the dignity of this institution and if you are unwilling I will take the matter to the governors.”

“I would strongly advise you against that course of action,” Armando said sternly. “Anyway, some of the by-laws are terribly antiquated and are already under advisement by the governors for possible revision. Albus has been nothing but discrete in his personal affairs and this has not effected his behavior toward our students or his ability to teach. I see no reason to call him in for questioning.”

“If that is your final word then I am afraid I will have to take further action and go over your head,” Alistair said coldly as he turned to leave the office.

“That is my final word,” Armando called to his retreating back.

Alistair went to his rooms and sent owls to two of his old school friends who now sat on the board of governors for Hogwarts: Icarus Malfoy and Cepheus Black. He knew that because both men came from wealthy families and could trace their pure-blood heritage back for several centuries they held influence over the other governors and many important people within the Ministry of Magic. Both of them also disliked Albus because of his work against Grindelwald, whom they had considered a great man and a noble leader for a worthy cause. It shouldn’t take much to persuade them to ruin his life.

Before dinner time he had received a reply from each of them, promising to take the matter before their fellows. Alistair smiled, Albus Dumbledore was about to be publically shamed and relieved of his duties at Hogwarts. He would never forgive Minerva for her role in all of this and they would be driven apart forever. Alistair knew that he still would not have her, but at least Albus would not either. Alistair would end up on top because the great and mighty Albus Dumbledore would have fallen.

As soon as Minerva arrived home she took a long hot bath and then, wrapped in her favorite tartan dressing gown, sat down to write letters to the two most important people in her life. The two people she had just left.

Dear Brianna,

I’m sorry I didn’t have the chance to tell you good bye, but I assume you were in the midst of a raucous Quidditch party with your house mates. It was an excellent game, wasn’t it?

I had to return home because this is where I belong and I could no longer intrude on life at Hogwarts, but know that my thoughts are there with you. I’m so proud of you, baby, you’re going to do great things in time. I’m also proud of the maturity that you showed this week. I can’t tell you how happy it made your father for you to accept him into your life. It made me very happy as well and I’m deeply sorry I deprived you both the chance to know each other sooner.

Get to know him, baby girl, he’s a wonderful man. I’ll be missing you both greatly, but we’ll hopefully all be together for Christmas. Don’t forget to write and tell me everything that happens.

I love you,
Mum

She pulled out a fresh piece of parchment and stared thoughtfully out the window into the small garden before beginning the next letter.

Dearest Albus,

I’ve only been home for two hours and I already miss you. We have so much time to make up for and I fear I’ll never be able to truly make up to you for the time I cost you with Brianna. She’s a lucky girl to have you for a father and I’ll always feel that I failed her, and you, by depriving you of the chance to know each other earlier.

Please keep in touch often and you’re still invited for Christmas if Dippet will let you leave Hogwarts. In the meantime, know that my thoughts will always be with you and all my dreams will be about you. I’ll miss you every minute until I see you again. Take care of our little girl.

Always Yours,
Minerva

She set her quill down and read over the two letters. Deciding that they expressed exactly what she’d intended them to, Minerva addressed and sealed the envelopes, but just before she called her owl she realized she had one more letter to write. Sighing, she pulled out another piece of parchment and dipped her quill into the sensible black ink.

Dear Mum and Dad,

I just thought you would like to know that everything is out in the open now. Brianna knows who her father is and they are working on forming a relationship. Also, Albus and I are attempting to get back what we lost. It seems our lengthy separation was caused by misunderstandings on both our parts and we’re trying to put all of that behind us. The three of us are working toward becoming a family now.

I do not expect to earn your immediate approval upon hearing this news, but I felt that you should know. It still hurts that you cut me out of your life before Brianna was born, but what hurts most is that she is aware of the reason you never saw her until after her fifth birthday. I don’t know what changed your minds, but all she wants is to feel like you love her. Please, even if you cannot accept me, keep your granddaughter in your hearts and find a way to let her know she is there.

Minerva

She addressed an envelope for that letter and sent her owl on his way and then conjured up a cup of tea and moved to her favorite seat in the window. Minerva was thirty years old, she had published five editions of a seven book Transfiguration series and at least a dozen journal articles – all using pen names – and she had an eleven year old daughter, but somehow she felt as though her life was finally just beginning. She no longer felt the aching hollow loneliness that had haunted her for twelve years and because her books were selling so well this year she no longer had to worry where the next mortgage payment or her daughter’s tuition were going to come from. Her parents might never accept her back into their lives, but her exile from the McGonagall family no longer mattered now that she was forming her own family with the only man she had ever loved. Minerva finished her tea, banished the cup to the kitchen, and climbed the stairs to her bedroom, praying to whatever deities might be listening that her little family could retain and build upon the fragile relationship they had formed.

Albus and Minerva exchanged owls daily for the next two weeks, mostly they wrote about how much they loved and missed each other, but occasionally Albus’ letters caused Minerva to blush as she felt her whole body heating up. On Saturday night they spoke briefly through the floo network and both found it wonderful to see the other again, even if it was through the green haze of the magical fire. Brianna sent Minerva two letters during the same time, telling her about classes and the things she was getting up to with her friends. She had also been having tea with Albus in his office three times a week and they were having a wonderful time getting to know each other.

On the second Saturday after she left Hogwarts, Albus was able to get a few hours leave to visit Minerva. He apparated to her small home on the coast of Scotland just after breakfast and this time he was able to see the cozy looking brick building with rose bushes growing under the front windows and a small informal garden in the back. He thought it was lovely and he spent a few minutes trying to picture Brianna at age four or five climbing the trees and hiding among the flowers. He was drawn out of his musings when the door flew open and Minerva came running down the gravel walk and into his arms.

[ginger newts]

“What are you doing just standing here like this?” she asked. “Not having second thoughts are you?”

Albus knew she was teasing him, but that it was born out of actual concern that he would disappear from her life again. “Of course not,” he kissed her lovingly. “I was just trying to picture Brianna playing in the yard when she was younger.”

“Oh,” Minerva said and Albus knew that she was blaming herself for him not actually being there to see those things for himself.

“Stop blaming yourself, Minerva,” he said sternly.

She threw him an exasperated look and then took him by the hand, “I think you need the grand tour of my humble little estate.”

Minerva lead Albus around the back of the house to her well kept garden and then inside where she showed him the kitchen, her study, Brianna’s bedroom, and finally her own room. Albus had a wicked glint in his eyes as they looked at Minerva’s room. It was decorated in Gryffindor red and gold with rich dark woods and heavy ornate fabrics. There were paintings on the wall of Hogwarts and what he could only assume was her childhood home and on the mantle over the fireplace were framed photographs of Brianna at various ages and a picture of Albus and Minerva taken during her seventh year, right after she had mastered the animagus transformation. However, Albus’ attention was focused largely on the double bed in the center of the room.

He looked questioningly at Minerva, who nodded, and then picked her up and carried her over to the bed. They spent the morning making love and then went down to the kitchen to make sandwiches for lunch. Over lunch they talked about how often they would be able to see each other and how long Albus would be able to visit over the Christmas holiday.

“I’ll have to make sure I can find someone to watch the Gryffindor students who stay for the holidays and even then I’ll probably only be able to manage a few hours.”

“I understand,” Minerva said, laying her hand over his. “I don’t want you to get in any trouble at the school for trying to spend time with me.”

“I doubt that would happen, but I won’t be able to come here very often. We could meet in Hogsmeade on the weekends, though,” he suggested.

“That would be nice. I just want to spend time with you, Albus, I don’t care what we do.”

“I feel the same way, my dear, but alas I have to leave now,” Albus said sadly.

“Well, write to me I guess and let me know when we can get together again. I don’t have much going on this year so I should be free pretty much anytime,” Minerva said as they walked to the door.

Albus wrapped his arms around Minerva and pulled her close for the kind of bone melting kiss that made it even more difficult for him to leave her. He knew that the governors were currently
revising the by-laws and that one proposed change was to remove the rule about no personal visitors and to allow the immediate family of the staff to spend a certain number of weekends at the school as long as this didn’t interfere with the students or other staff. He hoped they would hurry up, it would be much easier for Minerva to come to Hogwarts than for him to get away. He kissed her once more and then reluctantly said good bye. Minerva watched Albus disapparate and then slowly closed the door and walked into her study to attempt to read. As soon as she sat down, an owl flew in and delivered a letter, Minerva opened it and read with growing confusion.

There was a similar letter awaiting Albus at Hogwarts. It was from the board of governors requesting his presence tomorrow afternoon in the offices of the Minister of Magic. ‘Odd,’ he thought, ‘why would they want a meeting on a Sunday?’

He arrived at the appointed time to find Minister Lumley, Alistair Crouch, Icarus Malfoy, Cepheus Black and several other very confused looking members of the board of governors. Then he saw Minerva standing in a corner looking very confused and a little intimidated. Albus went immediately to her side.

“Minerva, what are you doing here?” he asked quietly.

“I don’t know,” she admitted. “Right after you left yesterday I got a letter telling me to be here. Albus, I’m sure it’s going to have something to do with our relationship or your being a father by someone you never married. I don’t want to cause you any more problems.” Her voice broke, “Maybe I should just slip quietly back out of your life.”

“No!” he said quickly. “Minerva, I lost you once already and I won’t do that again. I already promised you that nothing will ever come between us again and I meant that.”

“But I don’t want to be the reason you lose your job,” she protested on the verge of tears.

Albus squeezed her shoulders reassuringly, “Don’t worry about me, my dear, I can handle this group.”

While they were talking, the rest of the governors had arrived and the Minister called everyone to attention.

Albus stepped protectively in front of Minerva and anger blazed in his eyes when he saw Crouch, Malfoy, and Black watching them coldly, “Whatever this is about, and I think I have a good idea, your business is with me. Leave Ms. McGonagall out of this.”

“I’m afraid this matter concerns her as well,” the Minister said.

Minerva stepped up beside Albus and touched his arm to let him know that they were in this together. They had agreed to face life as partners and this was part of their life now. Everyone took seats around a large table and Alistair repeated his discoveries to the assembled governors, some of whom looked surprised when he finished speaking. Alistair shared a triumphant look with Malfoy and Black.

Frederick Longbottom, the eldest and most senior member of the board of governors, cleared his throat and everyone looked at him. “This is, erm, a surprise, but I fail to see why the discovery of this information necessitated such a meeting. Professor Dumbledore is an upstanding and well respected member of our society, not to mention the hero of our last war.”

“But the by-laws!” Icarus Malfoy shouted. “He’s involved with a former student.”

“Actually, that is one of the rules we are changing this year and you know it, Malfoy,” one of the other men reminded him.

“What about the disgrace of his child?” Black asked.

“That has never been addressed by Hogwarts rules and certainly isn’t in violation of any Ministry decrees,” someone else said. “As long as the information never leaves this room I see no reason why that should effect Albus’ career.”

The Minister decided to speak up, “Professor Crouch, it seems you’ve called us all here under false pretenses. The majority of the governors and I feel that there is no need to continue this meeting or to take any punitive actions against Professor Dumbledore. If no one has any objections, I think we can end this meeting now. Professor Dumbledore, Ms. McGonagall, we’re sorry to have troubled you.”

There was a murmur of assent around the table and everyone stood to leave. Alistair hit the table with his fist and said, “I’m sure the Daily Prophet will pay well for this story.”

Mister Longbottom turned back to him and spoke gravely, “I would strongly advise you against that course of action, Professor Crouch. This is obviously a personally motivated smear campaign and the board of governors will not tolerate such actions from a Hogwarts professor. If you continue with this malicious attempt to slander Professor Dumbledore you can consider yourself dismissed.”

Alistair grumbled and left with Malfoy and Black following close behind. The rest of the governors offered their apologies to Albus and Minerva as they left also.

Albus and Minerva walked out together and as soon as they exited the Ministry building she turned to him with a pained expression. “Albus, I’m not worth all of this. I love you and I’ve never been so happy as I have been these last two weeks, but I feel like we will never be completely free of this trouble. I can’t let you jeopardize your job and your reputation for me.”

“Minerva,” he said very seriously, “you are worth any price I may have to pay. Nothing will stop me from building a life with you this time, do you understand, nothing. Bugger the rules and other people’s opinions, I love you and I want you in my life. Besides,” he lightened his tone, “you heard them. Nobody cares but Crouch and he has always been jealous of me. Never doubt your worth or my dedication to this relationship again.”

“I’m sorry,” she said quietly. “I just don’t want to be the cause of anymore pain for you.”

“As long as I’m with you and we have Brianna I’ll be happy.” He kissed her tenderly and then said, “Unfortunately, I have to go back to the school now. I’ll write to you soon.”

Minerva nodded, “Good bye, Albus, I love you.”

“And I you. Good bye, my dear.”

They both apparated to their respective homes, happy to have, at least once, avoided any negative consequences for their actions twelve years ago.

to be continued...

[Sensiblyquirky]

Oh, most excellent update!! I'm glad it worked for them in the end, and I do so hope they can become the little family we want them to be!! This is such a great story!

Christy

[Jestana]

Yay! Crouch didn't succeed! I have a feeling he'll go ahead with the smear campaign anyway. *growls* Friends, lovers, partners, w00t! *grin* I love the chappie, in case you couldn't tell. *wink*

[QuillofMinerva]

;D WOO HOO!!!! that certainly rained on Crouch's parade ;D

an excellent update and im so glad things are working out well for them...looking forward to their christmas together

Clayre xx

[TabbyForever]

Yaqy...although i have a feeling we've not seen teh end of Crouch....i really hope we have!!!

YAY....another great chappy!!!
It was a nice surprise to come home to this thats for sure!!
Thankyou for sharing!!
This story is getting better and better!!
J

[Mellypoo622]

Hahaha! Take that Crouch! Great chapter! This story is awesome! Update soon!

[angeldust]

ok bril lemon, hate the potion master n a interestign ending tot eh last cahpter all in all UPDATE SOON!

[Isabelle]

Oh, this is lovely. It's wonderful see them forming the family they want and we want. That dumb Crouch! I'm glad he didn't succeed! Great update!

Liz

[Tabby Bee]

;D WHEE!!!!!! AWESOME story!

Can't wait for the updates! Keep up the TEXTgoodTEXT no, GREAT work!



~Di ;D

[ginger newts]

Chapter 7

For the rest of the fall term Albus and Minerva continued their long distance courtship, exchanging frequent letters and meeting twice in Hogsmeade for an afternoon. Albus was also getting to know Brianna very well and when he joined them for Christmas lunch Minerva was very pleased to see how comfortably the father and daughter interacted. She noticed over the two week holiday that Brianna seemed happier than she could ever remember her being.

Brianna was happy compared to the earlier years in her life. For the first time in her life she had really good friends who were witches like she was and she didn’t have to invent excuses or hide as she had in primary school when she had accidentally done magic. Her classes were interesting and challenging and her grades were high. But most importantly, she finally had a father and she could sense that soon they would be a proper family. Brianna was also much warmer toward Minerva than she had been the month before. She was starting to forgive her for keeping Albus’ identity a secret. They all finally had the family they had always wanted.

The winter and spring terms passed in a similar manner and when Minerva received an owl from Albus in June asking if he could stay with them for the summer holidays she was overjoyed. She wrote back immediately to say yes and on the morning after the other students had gone home Albus and Brianna portkeyed to Minerva’s house. Brianna had spent an extra night in the castle so that she could travel with her father.

Albus thrived on planning family outings that summer. He took Minerva and Brianna on picnics, to the zoo in Muggle London, and to several professional Quidditch games. He spoiled Brianna with sweets and games and Minerva with bath salts and lingerie and was rewarded with bright smiles and many hugs and kisses. It was like something out of a story book and both Minerva and Brianna had trouble believing it was real at times. They had spent so many years struggling through life with only each other for support and company that they couldn’t quite get used to having someone else around who would shower them with attention and affection.

In the middle of August, Brianna was invited to spend a week with a friend from school and she was so excited by the offer that Albus and Minerva didn’t hesitate to say yes. As they helped her pack the night before she would be leaving they realized that they were looking forward to spending some time alone. Albus began forming a plan and the next morning he excused himself to go run some errands. He told Minerva he needed to go to the school to sign some paperwork, but in reality he stopped by his family estate to pick up something very important.

They spent the week taking long walks followed by long baths together and eating romantic candle lit dinners in the garden. Albus had waited all week for the perfect time to put his plan into action, but something always seemed to get in the way. Several times he suggested going out to dinner, but Minerva seemed to be coming down with something and didn’t feel up to going out. She was always tired and her stomach had been giving her trouble; while she had never actually been sick she often had to excuse herself from the table because the scent of food made her stomach churn.

Finally, on Thursday night Albus decided that he didn’t want to wait any longer and the setting didn’t have to be perfect. While he watched Minerva sleep he gathered his thoughts and found just the right way to ask. He woke her up at sunrise the next morning by tracing a rose lightly over her face. He started at her forehead and then moved down one cheek and across her lips, Minerva stirred and woke with a smile.

“Good morning, beautiful,” Albus smiled at her as she sat up and took the rose from him.

“Morning,” Minerva said, her voice thick with sleep.

Albus wrapped his arms around her and leaned down to kiss her before beginning the speech he had prepared, “Minerva, I love you more than words can express. You have brought so much joy and light into my life and I want to spend the rest of my days trying to make you happy. My dear, will you do me the great honor of becoming my wife?”

In response, Minerva dashed from the bed and into the bathroom. The next sound Albus heard was that of her being violently sick. He jumped out of bed and grabbed his dressing gown, which he magicked onto Minerva’s naked body before he pulled her hair back in one hand and began rubbing her back with the other. A few minutes later when she finally stopped vomiting, he conjured a handkerchief and helped Minerva wipe her face before pulling her shaking body into his lap and kissing her forehead. Minerva leaned heavily against him and Albus could tell by her breathing pattern that she was trying to keep her stomach under control.

“Is the thought of marrying me that aversive, my dear?” he chuckled.

She smiled weakly, “I don’t know whether to tell you that you have the best or the worst timing in the world.”

“Well I would say the worst since I asked as you were about to be sick,” Albus was holding her close and stroking her long dark hair softly. “Are you alright, Minerva?”

She nodded, “I’m fine, love, but I was going to say you have wonderful timing because I was going to tell you something today that might have changed the way I viewed your question.” She leaned back and looked into his eyes, “Albus, how do you feel about becoming a father again?”

He stared at her dumbly for almost a full minute before her words sank in, “A father...again... You mean?”

His face lit up as Minerva nodded in confirmation and then he leaned down and kissed her, pouring all of the love and devotion he felt into the kiss. When it was over Albus laid his hand gently over Minerva’s stomach, which he could now tell was just a little fuller.

“How long have you known?” he asked.

“Well, I’ve suspected for about two weeks, but I wasn’t certain until yesterday. The day you went to Hogwarts I took a test and I got the results back yesterday afternoon.”

Albus couldn’t stop smiling as he picked Minerva up and carried her back to bed. They reclined against the pillows, Minerva still in Albus’ lap and he immediately began overreacting.

“How are you feeling, do you need anything? Food – no. Tea? A back rub? I could go so you can sleep.”

Minerva laughed, “Albus, I’m fine, just hold me.” He did as requested, kissing her softly as she looked up to smile at him. “Now,” she continued, “I believe you had something else to ask me?”

It took Albus a moment to remember and then he reached over to the bedside table and picked up the ring he had retrieved from the Dumbledore estate. It had been his grandmother’s and was given to him when she died with instructions to give it to a very special woman. He held it out to her and asked his question again.

“Minerva, will you marry me?”

“Yes,” she answered with a happy smile on her face and tears in her eyes.

Their lips met in a gentle but passionate kiss and Albus slipped the ring onto Minerva’s delicate finger. As soon as Minerva felt that her stomach had completely settled they celebrated their engagement and the new baby by slowly and passionately making love. It was well after noon when the two happy lovers finally got out of bed and ventured downstairs for food, clad simply in their dressing gowns. It took them a very long time to eat the fruit and cheese plate they had prepared because neither could stop distracting the other. Albus kept trying to kiss Minerva in between bites and she was attempting to feed him, though she claimed it was the give him something else to do with his mouth. Upon that comment, Albus pulled her into his lap and started nuzzling her neck, causing Minerva to giggle in a way he didn’t think he had ever heard before.

[ginger newts]

They spent the afternoon in each other’s arms in the garden, exchanging tender caresses and speaking quiet words of love and hope for the future.

“Well, dad, what do you think, will it be a boy this time? Another Dumbledore to carry on the family name?” Minerva smiled lovingly up at him.

“I don’t care if it’s a boy or a girl, just as long as he or she is healthy and we’re all a family together.” He grinned at her and kissed the end of her nose, “I hope we get a little miniature version of you.”

She laughed, “I don’t know if that would be best for the child, but I suppose it would be unfair if we had two children that looked like copies of you.”

“Indeed, it would be most unfair to any child to have to look like me,” Albus twisted her words before throwing them back to her. “Luckily, Brianna only got my hair and eyes and not my nose.”

“Hmm, yes that’s true,” Minerva said thoughtfully. Then she reached up and slowly traced his features before pressing kisses to his temples, eye lids, nose and finally lips. “But I like this face,” she continued when she had finished.

They stayed in the garden until the sun began to set and Albus realized that Minerva was shivering in the cool night air.

“Let’s go inside, love,” he suggested, helping her stand. “Are you hungry?”

“No,” she said, “just a little tired and in need of a bath.”

“Perhaps you could use a massage as well?” Albus suggested with a twinkle in his eyes.

“Perhaps,” she agreed with a smile as they climbed the stairs and walked into the bathroom.

Albus wouldn’t let Minerva do anything for herself. (“You just rest, my dear, I’ll take care of everything.” “Albus, I’m going to have to take care of my self when you go back to school in two weeks.”) He insisted that she just sit in the bedroom and wait until he called for her. He filled the tub with her favorite nighttime bath salts, the vanilla and camomile that helped her sleep, and conjured several candles into the air over the tub. Barely audible in the background was the score to Tchaikovsky’s Sleeping Beauty, one of Minerva’s favorite ballets and the one with her all time favorite music.

When he was satisfied that everything was perfect, Albus went back to the bedroom and found Minerva curled up on her side like a cat and sleeping lightly.

“Your bath awaits, m’lady,” he said quietly, his mouth near her ear, as he stroked her hair back from her face.

Minerva opened her eyes and stretched, “Lead the way, good sir.”

Albus picked her up, eliciting more protests that she was perfectly capable of walking, and carried her into the bathroom. Setting her on her feet, he made quick work of Minerva’s dressing gown and then helped her into the tub before removing his own robe and climbing in with her. Albus massaged her back and shoulders as he washed her body with the warm scented water and then he washed her hair, massaging her scalp in the process. When the water started to cool they climbed out and dried each other off with the fluffy white towels that Minerva insisted on replacing every morning and then dressed for bed and crawled under the covers together. Albus maneuvered them into a position in which he could rest his hands protectively over Minerva’s stomach where the newest member of their family was growing. After exchanging I love you’s one last time, Albus buried his face in Minerva’s sweet smelling hair and they both fell asleep dreaming of the future.

Brianna returned the next morning by floo and found her parents snogging in the kitchen. She cleared her throat, “I’m glad you two get along now, but do you think you could give me a break for one morning?”

“When did you get so cheeky?” Minerva asked her with a frown. “Albus, don’t you watch out for the things these children teach each other?”

“We can’t be there all the time, darling,” he dropped a kiss on the top of her head and winked at Brianna, who gave him her “mum’s crazy” look.

“Well, welcome home baby,” Minerva said. “Did you have breakfast?”

“Yes, ma’am,” she answered.

“Alright then, why don’t we all go into the sitting room? Daddy and I have something to tell you.”

Brianna looked panicked for a moment, but Albus put a hand on her shoulder and drew her close, “Don’t worry, sweety, it’s good news this time.”

They all walked into the sitting room and Brianna curled up in her favorite arm chair while her parents sat together on the couch. Albus took Minerva’s hand in his own and threaded his long fingers through hers before addressing their daughter.

“A lot has happened while you were away, Brianna. First of all we’d like you to know that we’re going to be married.”

Brianna interrupted, “Really? When?”

“Well, we talked about that a lot and due to the school schedule it’s going to have to be next weekend,” Minerva informed her. “It’s going to be a very small ceremony. Would you be my bride’s maid?”

“Do I get new robes?”

Albus and Minerva both laughed. “I’m sure we’ll find a chance to do a little shopping this week,” Minerva said. “We’re also going to ask if you’d mind spending two or three days with your grandparents so we can have a short honeymoon.”

“Yeah that’d be alright, I haven’t seen them in ages,” Brianna agreed slowly.

Albus continued to tell her their news, “You’re also going to have a new brother or sister in about seven months.”

Brianna’s face fell and her eyes darkened. Not wanting to say why she was really upset, she lashed out irrationally, “You can’t do anything properly can you? Don’t you know that you’re supposed to be married BEFORE you have children! The only kids raised by just their mothers either have fathers who died or mothers with terrible reputations.”

Her words cut through Minerva more keenly than a knife would have and she struggled between anger and tears. Albus recovered more quickly and realized that there was more behind those words than the surface content.

“First of all,” he said seriously, “that was completely uncalled for. Secondly, you’re going to tell us right now what you’re really upset about.”

Brianna stood up and started pacing furiously, her hands balled into fists, “Neither one of you has any idea what it’s like to grow up without a father! To have all the kids in school treat you like an outcast because your unmarried mother is a recluse and their parents all say mean things about her at home and because you make strange things happen without meaning to when they tease you. Have either of you ever sat in a Potions classroom in the freezing cold dungeons and had the teacher take house points away just because he didn’t like you and snarl ‘bastard’ in your ear every time he walks by? No, you haven’t. All my life people have treated me horribly because the two of you were too stupid to write a bloody letter after you shagged.

“And now you’re so happy, getting married with your twelve year old daughter as a bride’s maid as if it’s a normal thing to do. How am I supposed to feel knowing that this baby you’re so excited about is going to have two parents and that I’ll be the only one in this family whose last name isn’t Dumbledore? I hate you and I hate the baby!”

Before they had a chance to respond, she stormed upstairs to her room and slammed the door so hard the walls shook. Albus’ anger grew when he looked over at Minerva who was sitting unnaturally still with a look of shock and hurt on her face.

[ginger newts]

“I’m going to go speak to her,” he said.

“No,” Minerva said quietly,” give her some time to cool off.”

“She needs to know that she cannot speak to us like that,” Albus insisted as he stood to go upstairs.

Minerva leaned her head back against the couch and closed her eyes. She could hear everything that happened upstairs.

Albus was knocking on Brianna’s door, “Brianna Renee McGonagall, open this door right now.” There was a pause and a muffled “NO!” and then, “Alohamora.”

“Get. Out.”

“Not until you’ve heard what I have to say.”

“I don’t care what you have to say. I wish I’d never met you, I hate you!”

“No, you don’t. You’re just angry right now and you need to calm down so we can talk. The first thing you need to understand is that nothing gives you the right to speak to your mother that way. If you’re upset about something you’re old enough and intelligent enough to discuss it calmly and rationally with us, yelling will not be tolerated in this house.

“The second thing you need to understand is that we both know exactly what it’s like to be treated as an outcast by society. We both grew up with Muggle children who didn’t understand our families and got scared by accidental magic, most wizarding children do. Your mother and I have both also been hurt by our family situation and I don’t only mean twelve years of silence and broken hearts. Did you know that your Potions teacher called a meeting with the Minister of Magic and the board of governors regarding our situation in an attempt to have me fired and publically dragged through the mud? Not to mention the fact that your mother has spent twelve years in exile from her family and society in general for having a child out of wedlock. You are not the only one who has been hurt by this situation.

“Now, I want to ask you a question: Why didn’t you come to me when Professor Crouch started bothering you?”

“Are you kidding?” Brianna asked. “And have him treat me worse because I’d gone running to my daddy?”

“Nevertheless, rest assured that I will be speaking to him as well as the headmaster when we return to school in two weeks. There’s one more thing that you need to understand and then I want you to go downstairs and apologize to your mother.” Albus waited for her to nod her understanding before he continued, “Your mother and I both love you very much and all we want is for you to be happy. This new baby will not replace you in our hearts and if you want to be a Dumbledore I will have your name changed, but the name McGonagall won’t make you any less a part of this family.”

Brianna spoke slowly and resentfully, “I know the new baby won’t replace me, but I can’t help being jealous. He, or she, won’t have to go through everything that I have.” She sighed, “I want to be happy for you, I really do. I guess I still just don’t know how to cope with everything that’s happened this year.”

“That’s perfectly understandable,” Albus said, “but you can’t continue to use that as an excuse for misbehaving. When you’re confused and upset about something tell us and we’ll help you as much as we can. Now, I believe you need to go downstairs and speak to your mother.”

“Yes, sir,” Brianna stood and walked slowly down the stairs and across the sitting room to stand in front of Minerva.

“Mum?” she said and Minera opened her eyes. “I’m sorry I yelled at you before. I’m going to try to be happy about the wedding and the baby and I’d still like to be your bride’s maid if you still want me to,” she spoke stiffly and politely, without much feeling.

“Of course I do, Brianna. You’re my daughter and I love you, the new baby won’t change that. I’m sorry for everything you’ve been through, but I can’t change it and we just have to move on and try to be happy with the hand we’ve been dealt.”

“I know,” Brianna said sullenly. “I’m going to go back upstairs now for a little while.”

Minerva nodded and leaned back again, she heard Brianna walk away and felt Albus sit down beside her. He pulled her legs across his lap and started to massage her feet.

“She’s always going to resent me for her childhood,” she said after a pause, “but thank you for trying to set her straight.”

“Well,” he replied calmly, “we’ll just keep loving her and maybe someday she’ll come around, but I won’t baby her. Nor will I let her think that she can get everything she wants by having a tantrum. She’s an intelligent child and someday I’m sure she’ll appreciate everything you’ve done for her. Things could have been a lot worse considering your situation when she was born.”

“The first eight or nine years of her life were difficult times, Albus. I struggled a lot, financially, my books didn’t really start to sell well until the third edition came out. She never knew, but sometimes I wasn’t sure if we would be able to keep the house or not. We lived in a two room apartment until she was three, she doesn’t remember. All she knows is that she never had all the nice things her friends had and she never had a father.”

“I know you’ve had a hard time, Minerva, but you’ve done a wonderful job of building a life for yourself and Brianna. Neither of you, nor the new baby, will ever want for anything again, I promise. Now, my beautiful bride-to-be,” he kissed her softly, “shall we start working on some of the details for the wedding?”

Minerva groaned, “Alright, let me get some ink and parchment and we’ll start making lists. Just so you know, I want this to be as simple as humanly possible.”

“That’s fine with me, love, but are you sure you don’t want a big wedding?”

“Positive,” she said crisply. “I don’t want any fuss. Besides, we have a twelve year old daughter and I’m going to be two months pregnant at the wedding, it would be unseemly to have a big affair.”

“You just plan whatever will make you happy and then tell me what to do in order to make it happen,” Albus caught a strand of her silky hair between his fingers and leaned in to kiss her again.

to be continued...

[Sensiblyquirky]

well as you my dear friend know, i am riled. That child is a brat, and I do hope she can grow up sometime in the near future. I feel so sorry for Minerva, I just want to give her a big hug. But getting me to feel that way speaks highly of your ability as a writer! Great update, awaiting the next.

Christy

[Jestana]

*rolls eyes* Brianna was a real brat, wasn't she? I'm glad Albus spoke to her, but it's going to take more than that to get her to grow up. *sigh* It's about time they're getting married! A new baby, too. Yay!

[QuillofMinerva]

I can understand Brianna reaction very well.....(my mum married when i was 12 and had a baby a year later, of course we have different fathers and i have a different surname but i look back and think i was a brat too)

Im glad Albus spoke to her and tried to restore piece but I dont think its going to be that easy.

A wedding and a new baby yayeeeeeeeeee

[TabbyForever]

Yayness....new baby and a wedding!!!

But what a little cow bag of a child!!! I hope that she can start to understand what they've all been through and that she's not the only one whos had a bad life!!!
Grrr anyway, fabby chapter, as i thought this is getting better and better!!!

Well done mate!!!
J

[Mellypoo622]

A wedding! And a baby!! YAY!!!! Great update!!!!!!!!

[Isabelle]

Wow, Brianna, I'm surprised at you! This is lovely. A new baby and a wedding always make up for her brattiness. --Is that a word? Oh well, great job!

Liz

[Nerweniel]

Wow. Just wow. A wonderful chapter, I'm so happy Min & Albus will have another kid, aww . Brianna's a *b*r*a*t* though. Ok, she's twelve, and ok, this is not easy for her, but really, POOR MINERVA . Anyways, hope to read a next chapter soon ;D!

Love,

Liz

[griseldalafey]

Can I say something on Brianna's defense? I think her reaction, although harsh is perfectly understandable.

Her life has been turned up site down several times in a few months.
The thing is, Brianna has no control over what is happening, she can only accept what is going on. And since she is a thirtheen year old girl, I can see why she does it with some screaming and raving.

I really enjoy this story and I think you've done a great job with keeping it realistic.

[ginger newts]

Sorry it took me longer than usual, I had to throw out part of this chapter after I'd written it and start again.

Chapter 7

The next week passed quickly as Albus and Minerva planned their small wedding. They had decided to go with a traditional wizarding binding ceremony and managed to find someone who could perform it on such short notice. Invitations went out to Minerva’s parents, her old school friend Poppy Pomfrey, Albus’ brother Aberforth, and his old friends Nicholas and Perenelle Flamel; everyone RSVPed that they would attend. The ceremony would be performed in the garden, under the tree that Albus and Minerva had passed many happy summer hours beneath, and then they would have some light refreshments ordered from a restaurant before Albus and Minerva left to spend three days at the shore. Aberforth offered to take the pictures and Albus had reluctantly agreed with a warning to keep them tasteful and in focus.

On Thursday the family traveled to Madam Malkin’s Robes for All Occasions in Diagon Alley to buy robes for the wedding. Minerva chose a tasteful set of robes in a soft cream color with a neckline that exposed the very tops of her shoulders and sleeves that tapered to a point over her hands. They found a set in a similar color for Brianna and Albus chose sky blue robes to match his eyes. Albus and Minerva separated briefly after that to buy each other wedding presents and then they all met back up to do Brianna’s school shopping before going home.

The wedding took place on Saturday afternoon. Poppy arrived early to help Minerva get ready and Albus went to his brother’s home to prepare so as not to see her before the wedding. Minerva’s parents arrived only moments before the ceremony started and made it obvious by their behavior that they were only there in order to take Brianna home with them afterwards. The official was an ancient and withered looking man who kept calling Albus “young man.”

The short ceremony went over perfectly, despite the bride’s maid’s sullen attitude and the non-involvement of the parents of the bride. Everyone was surprised by Albus and Minerva’s choice of the rarely used ancient ritual that would bind them to each other unto death, most wizards and witches opted for the more modern Muggle wedding tradition. They also surprised them by announcing the impending arrival of another little Dumbledore in a few months. Poppy, Aberforth, and the Flamels offered hearty congratulations, but when Poppy saw Brianna’s less than thrilled expression she gave Minerva a questioning look. Minerva shrugged and whispered, “I’ll tell you later.”

Albus had arranged to have finger sandwiches and canapes delivered from a restaurant and after the binding ceremony everyone milled around the garden eating. Albus and Minerva cut the small cake and fed the first pieces to each other while Aberforth took pictures. It wasn’t very long before Minerva’s parents took Brianna and said good bye. The Flamels also said their good byes after congratulating the happy couple again. Poppy and Aberforth offered to clean up the garden while Albus and Minerva changed and got their bags from upstairs so that they could leave as quickly as possible on their honeymoon.

When they were ready to leave, Albus and Minerva thanked their friends and then apparated to a small wizarding hotel near Brighton Beach. Albus had booked the honeymoon suite and as soon as the door closed behind them he began putting its many amenities to use. He filled and activated the large jacuzzi tub and poured two glasses of the sparkling cider he had requested instead of the usual champagne. They toasted each other before Albus helped Minerva out of her robes and into the tub, the process slowed considerably by his inability to refrain from kissing each inch of skin that was revealed as he slowly unbuttoned her robes. They spent a long time in the tub teasing each other before finally moving to the large bed, it was almost dawn before the new husband and wife finally slept.

Albus was awoken a few hours later by the now familiar sound of Minerva being sick. He got up and stumbled groggily into the bathroom to help her.

“I’m sorry,” she said a few minutes later. “I don’t want to ruin your honeymoon with morning sickness.”

“It’s your honeymoon as well, my dear,” he said, running a finger down the side of her face. “As long as I’m with you this time will be special. Besides, the reason you are sick makes me happy and it’s partly my fault. Perhaps I should apologize to you.”

“Partly?” Minerva raised an eyebrow.

Albus nodded, an amused twinkle in his eyes, “It takes two to conceive a child, my dear.”

“Indeed,” she answered dryly. “What shall we do today: shopping, the beach?”

“Or we could stay in,” Albus said mischievously as he began nuzzling her neck.

Minerva laughed, “We could have stayed home if we’re not going to leave the room for three days.”

“We could have,” Albus agreed, “but there’s no room service at home and we don’t have one of these marvelous tubs.”

“True,” she answered with a smile as he lowered her onto the floor.

Before anything else could happen, Fawkes appeared above them in a burst of flame. Minerva had only experienced this once or twice before and since she had been completely unprepared for it now she shrieked and then blushed when she realized what had happened. Albus chuckled at her reaction and Fawkes cooed what sounded like an exasperated series of notes. He held out his leg and Albus took the letter the phoenix had come to deliver. Fawkes hadn’t been able to settle in at Minerva’s house and had opted to go back to Hogwarts for the summer so Albus assumed the letter was from the headmaster. He was correct, Armando was requesting his urgent presence at the school for a few hours. Albus sighed and handed the note to Minerva, who read it quickly and groaned.

“I’m sorry, Minerva,” he said.

“It’s alright, Albus, you have responsibilities to Hogwarts. You go help Armando out and I’ll check out the beach and the boardwalk. Hopefully you’ll be back in time for dinner.”

“I’ll miss you every minute I’m away,” Albus kissed her softly and then rose to get dressed.

After he had gone, Minerva took a bath and donned a Muggle summer dress to go explore the beach area. It was noisy and crowded and smelled of every greasy and sugary confection imaginable, after a couple of hours she grew tired and went back to the hotel to take a nap. When she awoke a few hours later it was to find Albus sitting beside her and watching her sleep with a look of pure adoration on his face.

“Hi,” she said, rolling over on her back and gesturing for him to lie down beside her, which he did. “How did it go?” she asked after a kiss.

“You’re not going to believe this,” he said, sounding tired. “Armando had a rather nasty visit over the weekend with some very irate parents. It seems we now have a pregnant seventh year student thanks to none other than Alistair Crouch.”

“What?” Minerva exclaimed.

Albus nodded, “And they’ve found at least six or seven other students and former students willing to give statements that they had affairs with him while in school. It seems he’s made rather a habit over the years of seducing as many students as he could. He would take them to bed every night for a week and then never speak to them again. Most seemed to agree because they found him charming and attractive at first, but others were bribed with house points and good grades.”

“That’s outrageous! No wonder the parents are irate,” Minerva cried. “All those poor girls, how awful to be used like that and by someone they’re supposed to be able to trust!” She suddenly sat up very quickly, “That slimy git, I can’t believe he put us through all that drama with the governors when all along he was the one who should be fired.”

“I know,” Albus pulled her back down on the bed. “He’s been sacked. The reason I had to go to Hogwarts on a Sunday during the summer was to help Armando interview new Potions Masters. We also had to write letters to the governors and the Minister in order to put his ultimate fate in their hands, but Armando made it clear that Alistair could not return to school in the fall.”

“Well that’s good at least, but I feel for that girl. I know what it’s like to be young and pregnant and alone.” Albus watched as Minerva seemed to shrink and her eyes took on a young scared look.

He didn’t even have to think before gathering her protectively into his arms and kissing the top of her head, “It’s alright, love, you’re not eighteen anymore and I’m here now. Where are you, Minerva?” he asked when she didn’t answer.

“Getting thrown out of my parents’ house the week before Christmas with nothing but a few clothes and my wand,” she answered in a far away voice.

Albus closed his eyes against the pain that statement caused him and embraced Minerva so tightly he was in danger of crushing her. “Come back to me, love,” he pleaded.

Minerva shuddered and looked up at him, “Albus?”

“I’m here, Minerva.”

“I’m sorry,” she whispered, clinging to him.

“Shh,” he whispered, rubbing her back.

It pained Albus to see Minerva regressing back to the days when she was young and frightened. He held her for a long time until she fell asleep and eventually he drifted off as well, never loosening his hold on her. He was awoken a few hours later by her cries.

“Please, dad, I’ve nowhere to go!” she cried before dissolving into tears.

[ginger newts]

Albus woke her with a soft kiss and her eyes flew open, wildly darting around the room as if she was trying to remember where she was. Minerva’s eyes fell on Albus and she gave a sigh of relief, pulling herself closer to him.

“You’re safe now, Minerva,” he said softly as she buried her face in his beard.

“I guess I just can’t quite get used to being loved and cared for,” she said quietly.

“Well I’ll do whatever it takes to help you get used to it because I intend to love and care for you for the rest of our lives,” Albus told her seriously before lowering his head to kiss her.

Minerva deepened the kiss almost as soon as his lips met hers and began fumbling for the buttons on the collar of his robes. Albus took the hint and made love to her slowly, treating her like a treasured possession. He’d had no idea that Minerva had been so traumatized by the events of the fall of 1941 that hearing about another girl in a similar situation would give her nightmares. He silently vowed to spend at least a few minutes every day making her feel safe and loved.

When Albus and Minerva rejoined the world two days later it was to find that the board of governors had signed the official orders to sack Crouch and hire Professor Haiden Harris to teach Potions. The also found Brianna’s school trunk missing and a note from Minerva’s parents stating that they were keeping her for the rest of the summer. Albus expected Minerva to be upset, but she just sighed and took a seat on the couch.

“Well, I suppose it’s better than fighting with her for five days,” she said and Albus knew not to bring the subject up again.

Instead, they spent the last few days before Albus had to return to Hogwarts finishing the honeymoon they had cut short. He left on Sunday morning with a promise to arrange more weekend visits this year, especially as it grew closer to time for the baby to be born.

Brianna’s grandparents took her to King’s Cross Station on Monday to get on the Hogwarts Express, where she easily found her friends before boarding. The four of them found an empty compartment and helped each other heave their heavy trunks into the overhead rack. The other three girls had spent the weekend together in Diagon Alley, giving them the chance to catch up on their summers so they asked Brianna about hers.

“Well, it started out alright,” she said, “but then my mum got married and told me she’s having another baby.”

“Oh, and you don’t like the man she married?” Susan asked.

“No, it’s not that...”

“I think I understand,” Christine cut in. “My mum remarried a couple of years before I started at Hogwarts and I like my stepfather, he’s really nice, but he’s just not my dad. My dad was a Muggle and he died in the war when I was three, I don’t know it just feels wrong to like my stepdad too much. They had a baby last year and even though I love my little sister it’s strange knowing we don’t have the same dad. I know they love us both, but I can’t help feeling a little left out sometimes. Is that how you feel now?”

“Not exactly,” Brianna sighed. “Alright, look, I’ll tell you but I don’t want it to leave this compartment.” The other girls nodded their agreement so she continued, “My mum didn’t remarry, she married for the first time and he’s not my stepfather, he’s my actual father. There was some big miscommunication the year I was born and they didn’t speak again until after I came to Hogwarts. They finally found each other again after that and decided to get married.”

She looked around at three confused faces.

“That’s some story,” Susan said slowly.

Christine was more to the point, “So what’s the bloody problem? Your mum married your dad and you’re getting a new brother or sister, I fail to see the negative. Do you have any idea what I would give to have my father back?”

“I’m not sure I understand why this is bad either,” Elizabeth said. “I mean, are they ignoring you now or something? Didn’t you say last year that you were glad to finally know your father, what happened?”

Brianna scowled, didn’t they understand? Then she realized that she didn’t really understand why she was so upset, she just knew that she was. “No, they don’t ignore me and I was – I am glad to have a father. It’s just...I don’t know...” she trailed off.

“Well, the way I see it,” Elizabeth said, “is that you’ve now got two parents who love you and spend time with you and you’re finally going to have the family you said you wanted so much when we met you. You’re doing better than any of us. Our mum and dad,” she gestured to her twin Susan, “never had any time for us. We grew up with house elves and governesses taking care of us while our parents went on long vacations and attended parties. And Christine doesn’t remember her father. You’ve got what we’ve all been wanting for twelve years and if that makes you unhappy then I think you’re a spoiled brat.”

“But you all had properly married parents when you were born, doesn’t that count for something?” Brianna protested.

“Bugger properly married,” Elizabeth exclaimed. “If they don’t care about you what good is it if they’re married?”

There wasn’t much conversation for a while as Brianna thought about everything her friends had said. They were right, she had been acting like a child and she needed to try to be happy with her life. It was just so difficult when everything kept changing every couple of months. She drew her knees up and rested her chin on them thoughtfully, staring out the window. She really did have everything she’d always wanted, so why had she reacted so badly to her mum’s news? She was confused and she felt guilty, both for her actions to her parents and for complaining to her friends and well, for just overall behaving as a prat. After the lunch trolley came by the conversation began to flow more easily again and a little while later Susan asked the question they had all been dying to ask for months.

“Brianna,” she paused, “we’ve all been wondering...ever since you told us you’d met your father... Well, who is he?”

Brianna ducked her head for a moment, they would surely hex her into next year for complaining when she told them. “Professor Dumbledore,” she said quietly.

“You’re not serious?!” Christine exclaimed and Brianna nodded.

“And you were complaining? You great git,” Susan’s voice was light and teasing, but Brianna could help thinking she was right.

“Unless he’s the exact opposite at home from his behavior in school, you must be the luckiest witch I’ve ever known,” Elizabeth offered.

Brianna couldn’t help smiling, “He’s the same at home. He’s fantastic and I don’t mean to sound like I’d rather not have him for a father. It’s just that my mum could have spared us all of these problems if she’d told him about me before I was born. He had no idea I existed before I came to school and he saw my file. And now that they’re back together everything just keeps changing, I don’t have time to get used to anything before it’s different again.”

“Seems to me that if anyone should be angry with your mum it would be your dad and he’s obviously not angry if they’re having another baby already,” Christine looked at the other two and they all giggled. “I think you should talk to them. Something is obviously bothering you and you should tell them what it is. If you’re having trouble handling all the changes, they can help you.”

“Yeah, I guess you’re right,” Brianna said.

She spent the next two weeks trying to sort out her thoughts and emotions so that she could talk to her father. Albus was also trying to determine the best way to approach Brianna. Her bad attitude seemed to be directed mainly toward Minerva and he thought that maybe if he could make the child understand how much her mother had suffered she would be a bit more sympathetic. On the second Friday of term the matter was taken out of his hands when an article appeared in the Daily Prophet about his marriage.

Albus Dumbledore: War Hero or Philanderer?
By Katherine Flanagan

This reporter has it on good authority that Albus Dumbledore, Deputy Headmaster of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and the supposed hero of our last war, was married at wand point last month to a Miss Minerva McGonagall. His questionable bride is two months pregnant and according to my sources has a twelve year old daughter who may or may not also be Professor Dumbledore’s child. The long affair between Professor Dumbledore and Ms. McGonagall is rumored to have begun when she was his student fourteen years ago. Concerned parents may want to question the people to whom they entrust their children’s care. This reporter believes that Headmaster Dippet would do well to test the morality of his staff before he allows them to have influence over the younger generations.

Professor Dumbledore is known throughout wizarding England as a brave and honorable man and one can’t help but wonder if his new bride has had some strange influence over him. Sources who attended the wedding tell me that instead of the more modern wedding services a traditional wizarding binding ceremony was performed. This will prevent Professor Dumbledore from ever leaving his wife and will weaken him if he spends too much time away from her. We must ask ourselves why he would want this sort of commitment. Mrs. Dumbledore’s former professors tell me that she is a very clever witch and could be capable of using a potion or a spell to entrap one of the most sought after bachelors of our time. This reporter believes that such a possibility should be looked into. It would be unwise to allow Professor Dumbledore to continue at the school if he is being controlled by an unknown and questionable person or persons.

to be continued...

[QuillofMinerva]

oh bloody hell, just when things seemed to be going well, you drop this amazing plot twist on us

the wait for is update was worth it but please update soon

im glad brianna's friends made her see sense but now all this daily prophet thing is going to put so much stress on the new family

clayre xx

[griseldalafey]

Great chapter! *hugs Brianna again, 'you're going to be alright honey'*

Don't you just love the press? Where did this story came from? Poor Dumbledore Family...

[Sensiblyquirky]

Oh I love this update!!! I'm glad Brianna's friends talked to her, that Christine is a cool chick. Oh man that last part...poor little family. I just want to give all of them hugs.

Update soon,

Christy

[Mellypoo622]

Glad Brianna's friends talked some sense into her! Loved the chapter! Update soon!