Romantic Vows

[Sensiblyquirky]

Romantic Vows

Summary: Will Albus be able to get over a lost love, and accept Minerva’s?

Disclaimer: If I owned them I would not have to be looking for a job as I type.

Rating: If you have a brain and have attempted to cultivate it you should be fine.


Chapter Six: 102 Blades of Grass

Choosing to enjoy his breakfast in his sitting room Albus was able to look over his information on the area of Britain he and Minerva were sojourning to, and make any necessary last minute arrangements. At nine sharp Albus ran his hands through his short hair one last time and with a final look in the mirror set off for the Hogwarts gates.

As Albus walked along a dirt road he found himself pondering on what Minerva’s attire would be for the day, as she always looked lovely. As he saw her from afar Albus was glad he had chosen to arrive early: after all there was no need to keep a lady waiting.

Minerva was simply dressed in fashionable trousers and a white blouse for the occasion.

“I have no choice but to assume that your early arrival means you are only too delighted to be here, Miss McGonagall.” Albus commented as he kissed Minerva’s hand in greeting.

“For the company?” Always.” Minerva replied smiling, giving Albus’ hand a squeeze.

“Even with the cropped hair,” Albus asked unaware that he was still holding Minerva’s hand and rubbing it softly with his thumb.

“Even with the cropped hair,” was Minerva’s soft reply, most of her focus being on their joined hands and the wonderful feeling his ministrations caused.

Grinning Albus guided Minerva through the ‘entrance’ to the fair, and once inside began to excitedly explain the various pieces of farm equipment to her. Minerva was surprised at the depth of Albus’ knowledge on the subject, and wondered how many of these things he had been to in the past.

“So how long did you spend studying for this outing, Albus?”

“No time at all. Impressive, I know,” he proudly replied.

Making a point to roll her eyes Minerva sarcastically returned with “Oh yes very.”

“There is something about your tone of voice that indicates you are not as impressed as you should be, my dear, but that is something we can work on, never fear.” Cutting his eyes Albus caught Minerva mid-snort.

“I suppose it is time to educate you in a little something I call failure.”

“I’m well acquainted with the experience, but I’m not fond of it…left an awful taste in my mouth.”

“Lucky you have your sherbet lemons.”

“Er- I was just about to say that.” Smiling Minerva studied Albus’ profile carefully as he watched a local farmer discuss the newest tractor model.

“One failure,” she stated simply but firmly.

“Hmm?”

“You said you were well acquainted with failure, so tell me one.”

“I never could operate one of those tractors,” Albus answered after a moment’s pause. Minerva sighed inwardly: she had hoped to get something deeper or personal than tractors.

“Well why don’t you try to now? I’m sure the nice farmer wouldn’t mind, and I could always use a laugh.” Flashing Albus a smile Minerva urged him forward to engage the farmer in conversation. Leaning against the fence before her Minerva watched amusedly as the man lead Albus into his enclosure; however she could not hear their conversation.

“You see that young lady over there?” Albus indicated Minerva with a slight movement of his head.

“The pretty? Yeah.”

“Well she wants me to try driving one of these things, but I’ve never tried it before and the less humiliation the better.” Albus decided a wee fib on his former tractor experiences was allowed to keep his pride in tact. Nodding the Muggle ensured Albus he could impress his lady friend as long as he followed his instructions.

Minerva’s eyes had narrowed during the interchange between the two men, and she wished the crowd would disperse so she could hear them, with the aid of her wand. Finally they moved closer to the tractor, and Albus climbed on top waving to Minerva.

Albus drove the tractor around the area with relative ease, until he tried to shut it off. The machine wouldn’t shut off, and Albus was just driving in a circle. Instead of asking for help he tried another gear, which sent him in reverse. Before Albus knew it he had ploughed through the fence and was heading for other tents near by.

Minerva moved quickly with her wand, and was glad that the crowd was so focused on Albus that everyone missed her witchcraft. When the tractor stopped abruptly Albus knew it had been Minerva’s doing, and immediately his face flushed as he felt the wound to his pride but he was grateful for her work nonetheless.

Upon his dissension from the possessed machine Albus was a bit surprised that Minerva hugged him.

“Are you alright?” she asked pulling back slightly.

“I couldn’t get it to shut off; nothing was working correctly. Thank you, Minerva.”

“I’m just glad you’re alright.”

“Well all but my pride.”

“You don’t have to work to impress me, Albus.” Albus just smiled, and led Minerva away from the tractor to another tent with more sedate pieces of equipment.

The rest of the afternoon was spent walking amongst exhibits, and watching demonstrations; however Albus flatly refused to try riding anything else when Minerva would suggest it. By three o’clock even Albus had grown tired of the affair, and he could tell Minerva had as well. Though doing her best to appear interested Albus had just noticed her staring at the ground. Upon further inspection he realized she was counting grass blades, and her mouth had just silently formed one hundred and two. Quickly he led her from the tent and toward the entrance to the grounds.

“My dear I’m growing tired of this affair, and I’ve seen all I wanted to so why don’t we leave?”

“And go to dinner and some dancing?” Minerva added without thinking but quickly amended, “…but I’m sure you are busy this evening.”

“Not at all, and I’d be too happy to accompany you. That way I can repay you for attending the fair with me.”

“I do find Muggle life interesting, but it was a wee bit too long for me. Did you enjoy it?” Minerva replied as they walked along the dirt road leading away from the crowd of people.

“I find Muggles highly fascinating, and their machinery is amazing considering their inability to use magic; but the fair was a bit too long. I concede that you choose the next place we venture to.”

Minerva turned toward Albus and smiled brilliantly, “My ideas that wretched?” Albus asked uncertain about why Minerva seemed so happy.

“No not all,-”

“Hmph!”

“As I was saying, not all but I look forward to you redeeming yourself. Why don’t you plan next weekend?”

“You’re not trying to escape the pressure of planning an outing, are you?’

“Pressure, you think there is pressure?”

“Well there is now since I have to redeem myself,” Albus huffed crossing his arms over his chest.

“Then how could I be trying to escape pressure when I don’t have to redeem myself,” Minerva retorted watching Albus’ face with mirth apparent on her own. She continued without giving Albus a chance to respond.

“Now if you will kindly apparate to the Terrace on Avon we can have an early dinner, and then a small band provides music for light dancing under the sky.”

Minerva was gone before Albus had a chance to blink, but smiling to himself he quickly disappeared from the countryside.

*

Emily stood framed in the doorway to Minerva’s home with a slightly bewildered look on her face. Her best friend was currently dancing about her living room with some invisible partner, and humming along to a song only she could hear.

“You better be glad it was I that found you in such a deliriously happy state and not Laura,” Emily teased closing the door behind her.

Minerva continued to dance around the room as Emily took a seat on the couch, and finally stopped once the invisible partner had gallantly kissed her hand in thanks. Strolling to the kitchen for a refreshment Minerva left Emily to wander on her latest outing with Albus.

“Well aren’t you going to ask me how it went?” Minerva sighed exasperatedly at Emily’s silence.

“How did it go?”

“Well the farm equipment fair was a drag,-”

“What you do for that man,” Emily interrupted.

“Indeed, but anyway to make it up to me he agreed to take me to dinner followed by light dancing. We went to the Terrace, and it was just wonderful. We danced a few songs before he had to return to Hogwarts, and they were just heaven.”

Emily laughed at the way Minerva’s eyes had glazed over, and the way her lips were set in one of the biggest smiles she had ever seen. “Please tell me he kissed you or something…”

Minerva’s eyes immediately came back into focused, and her smile slowly faded from her face. “No, he was affable but proper.”

“I suppose that means your bodies weren’t pressed together as he led you around the room, maybe in a tango?”

“You’ve been hanging around Laura too much.”

“Well somebody has been gone all of the time,” Emily teased.

“I have not! It is just one day out of the week, but do you feel neglected? Really,” Minerva asked. Though happy to spend time with Albus, and wanting to increase it, she had no plans of dropping her friends for the man.

“I was just teasing, Minerva. So what is next for you two?”

“I made him choose again to redeem himself for this week. In fact I just got his owl this morning asking to meet him in Ireland on Sunday.”

“Which part of Ireland, did he say?”

“Kerry, in the southwest part; he said the landscape was too beautiful to pass up. I do wonder how long we’ll keep this up though, especially once Hogwarts is back in session. I imagine his free time will be greatly limited.” Minerva mused examining her ends out of habit.

“All that means is you’ll be spending a lot of time at Hogwarts, in his close quarters nonetheless.”

“We’ll see. C’mon let’s get Sarah and Laura and go out to dinner tonight. I’m not in the mood to cook.” Minerva rose from her chair, and retreated to her bedroom to freshen up a bit before heading out the door.

“Fine by me, you’ll never hear me complain about not cooking.” Hooking her arm through Emily’s Minerva guided her friend out of her house.



A/N: I apologize for the delay, but I’m back in the country and will do my damnedest to update much quicker. Christy

[Alesia]

I like the touches about Albus being embrassed. It is going to be interesting to see how he resolves his feelings about Minerva with his memories of his time with Olivia.

thanks for the update

[Hogwarts Duo]

YAY! An update...woo hoo! Poor Albus and that tractor incident! I can only imagine how red his face was when he returned to Minerva.

Can't wait to see what happens in Ireland! ;D

[JKMcGonagall]

Welcome back!

An update, Yaaaaaay! Loved it, poor Albus, embarassed in front of Minerva.

Ireland is next, coooool.

Kay

[snowcat]

I like that. This story is lovely. I like the dress.
Oh my I am hooked.

[ginger newts]

Very cute update. I liked the part about Albus getting stuck on the tractor, that was funny. I can only imagine the boredom of such a fair and I do hope he kisses her soon...goodness, it's been weeks already.

[QuillofMinerva]

Oh how funny was Albus on the runaway tractor, oh that made me giggle so much.

Great story Chirsty and I can't wait for the trip to Kerry

[Adrasteia]

Albus on a tractor ;D I've finally stopped giggling, but I suppose I will start giggling again as soon as I see a tractor.
Thanks for cheering me up.

[bee.]

this is a wonderful story, i love it. i would pay big to see albus on a tractor... i can't wait for the next update, keep it up
ecks oh ecks oh,
[glow=yellow,2,300]bee[/glow]

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter Seven: Noxious Foxgloves

Armando Dippet strolled down the halls of Hogwarts searching for his Transfiguration Professor. Typically Albus was present at all meals, so any issue the Headmaster needed to talk to him about was discussed then; however this made the second breakfast in two weeks Albus had been absent. Knocking on Albus’ door he was given entrance fairly quickly by a muffled command from the man within.

“Albus, I need to know how many,-” but the sentence died on Armando’s lips as he surveyed his friend’s sitting room. The room was in disarray, papers everywhere, and a half eaten breakfast was tittering on the edge of the coffee table.

Picking up a leaflet Armando’s eyes scanned the information on Killarney. “Were you going to inform me about your vacation?”

“I’m just going for the day,” Albus replied hurrying out of his bedroom adjusting his collar.

“A lot of planning for one day…”Armando mused as he watched Albus finish his breakfast. “Are you taking a lady?”

Albus almost choked on his toast, “She’s just a friend, Armando.”

“A lot of trouble for just a friend if you ask me.”

“Was there something you needed?” Albus inquired in an attempt to change the subject.

“Only the exact number of NEWT textbooks you’ll need next year, but you can get those numbers to me when you return from your…outing.”

“I’ll get them to you by tomorrow afternoon. Now if you’ll excuse me I need to leave before I’m late.”

“Yes, no need to keep a lady waiting.”

Albus narrowed his eyes, but chose not to comment as he headed out the door.

*

“Will you guys just leave already?” Minerva asked her friends not bothering to hide her frustration at their presence in her home, “Albus will be here in any minute.”

“Don’t tell me you are embarrassed by us,” Laura replied. “We’ll wait for a commitment before whipping out any stories, such as the one about you and the winter fair two years ago.”

“You tell that story and I swear on my future grave I will hex you into next year, and curse you and yours until the end of time. Now please get out of my house.”

“Whoa, calm down. We’re leaving, we’re leaving. See what happens when a man comes into your life? Loose all sensibility,” Sarah joked ushering Laura and Emily out of Minerva’s door mere minutes before Albus arrived.

“Minerva, are you ready?” Albus asked pushing on the slightly ajar door.

“Yes, Albus, I’m ready and you’re right on time I see.” Minerva smiled in greeting as she gathered her bag from the couch and headed in Albus’ direction.

“I was afraid I would be late, the Headmaster popped in right as I was about to leave.” With a click Minerva’s door was closed and locked and Albus was removing the portkey from his pocket.

“I thought it would be best to travel this way, and it guarantees we will arrive at the same place. No need to waste time searching for each other in the city.” Each taking hold of the spoon Albus indicated was their mode of transportation they spun into the Irish countryside.

“At least the weather is decent,” Minerva noted as she straightened her dress, and surveyed the surroundings.

“If we walk along this road for five minutes we should reach a view to overlook the lakes. From there I figured we could pop to other visual wonders, such as the Dingle peninsula, Lady’s View, and Sneem. We’ll have time to visit the city, and there we shall have some supper. I packed lunch, so we can enjoy that at one of the views.”

Minerva looked at Albus in awe, “You really planned this out, Albus.”

“I aim to please.” Albus bowed low to the ground, but on the way back up Minerva grabbed his beard and started dragging him toward the viewpoint.

“Merlin, warn a man before you mess with his beard woman!”

“Don’t be such a baby. I want to see as much as possible before it rains, so let’s go.” As they were walking Minerva spotted some beautiful purple flowers. The flowers bulbs pointed down and were vibrant in color; however Minerva did not know their name. Reaching out she gently stroked one, and picked one to carry with her. Holding the flower Minerva quietly fell in step beside of Albus as they made their ascent to the top of a small hill.

The commanding view of the lakes was beautiful, and Minerva took a deep breath as she gazed out. Several locals passed, and offered their blessings for a wonderful day as the two friends sat on the small bench provided. All too soon it was time to leave, and Albus gently took Minerva’s arm and guided her down the hill.

What should have been a memorable moment with Albus was lost on Minerva’s stomach as it lurched slightly off course. Dropping the flower Minerva’s hand flew to her stomach, and she slowed down.

Albus did not notice the small change in his traveling companion, so he continued to lead her down the hill. However by the time they reached the end he could not help but notice Minerva’s unsteady gait, and the way she kept moving her left hand to her head and then to her stomach.

“Minerva is everything alright?”

“I feel slightly sick; could we stop for a moment?” Minerva closed her eyes, and Albus moved closer in an attempt to steady her.

“Albus are we spinning? Did you activate the portkey already?” Minerva asked her breathing beginning to become irregular, causing her speech to be interrupted by heavy intakes of breath.

“No, my dear, but I think you need to sit down.” Before Albus could move Minerva she leaned over and lost her breakfast to the sidewalk.

Luckily as Head of Gryffindor House Albus had dealt with sick students before, but usually he was able to escort the children, as quickly as possible, to the school nurse and deposit them into her care. But this time he was stuck in Ireland, with only a portkey as the means of transportation, and a very sick Minerva.

Making sure her hair was not in the way Albus rubbed her back in soothing circles. When she stood up Minerva stumbled and tripped to the right, only Albus saving her from crashing head first into a fence.

“Oh the cows are pretty, Albus, but I they would stop spinning.” Nervously Albus glanced around, and noted there was not a cow in the area.

“Minerva there are no cows,” he stated simply not really sure what else to do.

“Of course there are, look right in front of you….thousands of them. Oh I’m going to be sick.”

Albus didn’t see any house near by, and he couldn’t just leave her here but he needed help fast. Glancing down at his companion Albus decided Fawkes was the only solution, and he quickly called the bird to him. Grabbing hold of Minerva’s waist Albus instructed Fawkes to deposit them at the Hogwarts Infirmary.

“Georgia!” Albus called frantically once they had landed. Quickly Albus maneuvered Minerva onto a bed, and on her side as another way of nausea hit her. He called the nurse once more before she appeared in the ante room.

“Oh good, Georgia you’re here. I need your help. We were in Ireland, and she just started vomiting and she got dizzy and then she mentioned cows when there were none in the area, I think she was hallucinating.”

If the nurse had wanted to question Albus more thoroughly she refrained, and set about to aiding the poor woman. “Dumbledore did she eat anything?”

“Just breakfast at her place, but I do not know what that was. Nothing while she was with me. We had just arrived.”

“Does she have allergies?”

“She didn’t mention anything.” Albus thought as hard as he could, but it had never come up in any of their conversations.

“She is very sick, Albus. Was there anything, anything at all?” the nurse asked while she tried to get Minerva situated.

“We arrived, started to walk, she got some flower…”

“What kind of flower?” Georgia latched on to this piece of information making Albus draw her a picture of the flower.

“That’s a foxglove, and it is highly poisonous. I’ve got something to help her, but it is going to be a rough night for your friend. Sit outside, and I’ll call you in when I’ve finished examining her just to make sure.”

Albus paced in the outside corridor, a series of situations running through his mind. First he would memorize every kind of flower there was or even better forbid Minerva to touch a flower ever again. ‘She’s going to be alright, old man, she’s going to be alright,’ Albus mentally repeated to himself until the school nurse interrupted his mad pacing.

"She had a small cut on her left hand, which aided the flower in its destruction. She’ll make it but she’ll be vomiting for sometime still. I’ll stay with her,-”

“I’ll sit with her, Georgia. It is partially my fault she is sick to begin with, but I would appreciate it if you were to remain nearby.”

“As if I had any intentions of doing otherwise,” the nurse replied slightly peeved.

“My apologies, Georgia, I’m just worried.”

Nodding Georgia led Albus back into the room, and he took a chair beside of Minerva’s bed. For the next three hours Minerva was in and out of consciousness as the healing potion worked its magic. Finally at three in the afternoon she settled into a deep sleep. Throughout it all Albus sat by her bed, just watching her sleep and wishing she would open those beautiful eyes and make a witty comment or just whisper hi.

Unable to sit still any longer Albus began to pace again. “Please tell me you are moving, and my head is not still spinning” a weak voice mumbled.

“My dear, how do you feel?”

“Albus, what happened?”

“The flower was poisonous, the one you picked, and it made you sick. You’re at Hogwarts; just lay back and get some sleep sweetheart” Albus had picked up Minerva’s hand, and was gently stroking it.

*

A day later Minerva returned to her home with strict instructions to rest for a few more days, and with the promise to write to Albus every day to inform her of her condition. When Minerva left Albus sank into his favorite chair, and sighed. Finally alone with his thoughts Albus reflected on his friendship with the young witch, and was startled at what he found.

When had she wormed her way so close to his heart? The way she looked in that hospital bed scared him, he could admit that now, and the way she leaned on him before flooing to her own bedroom almost made him offer his rooms to her. Memories from the summer surged forward, and Albus had to loosen his collar. She was getting too close. He wasn’t ready for what he was feeling, and her actions indicated she seemed to enjoy his company profusely. But what of Olivia and their time together, and…and well he couldn’t think of anything else but Albus knew it was important nonetheless.

Albus opened a window: when had it gotten so hot in his rooms? A shower, a nice cold shower he thought making his way to his bedroom. The water poured down his head, and over his body as Albus leaned against the shower wall. What was he supposed to do? She would be writing him every day, and they had already made plans for next Saturday. She had promised to cook him dinner in thanks for taking care of her, he couldn’t cancel could he?

Stumbling toward his bed Albus tried to fall asleep, but instead of sleeping peacefully he spent the entire night staring at his ceiling. He had till Friday he finally decided to make up his mind on what to do, he could decide later. Rolling over Albus finally succumbed to a light slumber at five.


*The Foxglove is a poisonous flower that I saw in Ireland. The symptoms Minerva suffered are associated with that particular flower (most likely if you were to eat the bud and not just touch it), so forgive me for indulging some for fictional purposes. ~Christy

[Jaya]

It also makes a very good heart medication... when taken in very tiny doses! I enjoyed that touch and you got the symptoms just right!

Then there was the line about warning a man before you touch his beard.... TOO FUNNY!!!!!

Great update!

Jaya ;D

[tayryn]

wonderful update! i am thoroughly enjoying this story, and am very much looking forward to more of it! i especially cannot wait for some kissage!! (i am a sucker for kissing scenes!)

“I aim to please.” Albus bowed low to the ground, but on the way back up Minerva grabbed his beard and started dragging him toward the viewpoint.

“Merlin, warn a man before you mess with his beard woman!”

this part was great, btw! made me laugh out loud!!

[JKMcGonagall]

That line about warning a man before messing with his beard was too funny. I'm still laughing. The cat is looking at me strangely now. Oh well, he would never understand it if I explained it to him. He will just have to wonder. I too hope that Albus is able to resolve his feelings about Minerva in reguards to his memories of times with Olivia.

Update soon.

Kay

[ginger newts]

I agree with Krys, getting sick in public is one of my worst nightmares. Poor Minerva! Albus handled it pretty well, but what's with all that doubting business... He better not cancel!

[bee.]

that was a wonderful update! and i agree, that beard line was priceless. i read it about 4 times, just laughing. post soon, and keep it up!
ecks oh ecks oh,
bee

[Miss Q]

A truly wonderful chapter in a wonderful story!! I do agree with the rest: that beard-line ;D was hilarious!!!

Thanks for sharing your hard work with us!!

M

[QuillofMinerva]

Great update! Along with all the others, I agree that the beard line was very funny and made me giggle for a long time after.

I hope that Albus doesn't become distant as he tries to sort out his feelings ect

Look forward to reading more

[Alesia]

Well done on getting Albus to look at his feelings for Minerva. The foxglove was a nice touch. Great Chapter.

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter Eight: I Can’t

Minerva bustled around her kitchen humming to herself as she prepared the evening’s meal she had planned for Albus. He had been so nice in taking care of her the previous weekend; and Minerva thought this would be a great way to introduce the idea of a more romantic attachment between them.

Last night she had stayed in the bath until she vaguely resembled a prune and had decided to make it clear tonight in which direction she wanted hers and Albus’ relationship to go, but she could handle taking it slowly if he professed such a desire.

Checking the oven one more time Minerva left the chicken to cook, and headed into her room for a quick shower. Sometime later she emerged in the perfect black dress that hugged her curves, and provided Albus with a little cleavage to look upon. Minerva had pulled half her hair back, and let the rest fall freely down her back: the ends curling in such a way that begged one to play with them.

Moving into the kitchen Minerva continued her preparations for dinner before Albus arrived.

*

Meanwhile Albus was signing his last document, and sighed as he noticed the time. It was time to get ready for dinner with Minerva. Normally he would be excited, and part of him still was but he was trying to ignore that part. Friday had come a little too soon for Albus, yet he could not bring himself to cancel on her. Attempting to delude himself Albus would only allow his imagination to picture a simple thank you dinner, and nothing more.

Rising from his desk Albus disappeared into his bedroom to dress for the evening.

*

Minerva smoothed her skirt as she heard Albus’ knock, and nervously checked herself in the mirror one more time.

“Please come in,” she greeted her dinner date upon answering the door.

“How have you been, Minerva? Well I hope.” Albus entered the small house he had only been in once before, and quickly surveyed his surroundings. The dinning room must be on the other side of the house, he mused, but the living room and kitchen were neatly furnished and echoed the owner wonderfully.

“I am. Thank you once again for taking care of me last weekend Albus.”

“I didn’t do much. It was partially my fault you were sick in the first place,” Albus gently reminded her.

“I picked up the flower. I’m just thankful you thought to get me to the school. I should be embarrassed, but to be honest I only remember bits of the incident. Have you had a good week?”

“Decent. Mostly paperwork, which isn’t my forte, but I had put it off long enough. Dinner smells good, by the way.”

“I’m glad you think so. Only a few more minutes and it will be finished, and ready to eat. You aren’t allergic to nuts are you?” Minerva asked nervously.

“Nope, I don’t have allergies so you don’t need to worry.” Albus twinkled back to her from across the couch.

“Good. We’re having pecan encrusted chicken, with a jacket potato, and some red wine. I’ll save dessert as a surprise though, since we both know how found of sweets you are.”

“I might be able to guess you know,” Albus teased, watching Minerva as she crossed to the kitchen to check on how things were progressing.

“Perhaps we could make a little wager. If you don’t get it right you take me to Paris next weekend, and if you get it right…”

“You agree to make me dessert for a month, and send them by owl.” Albus quickly finished.

“Sweets are always on your mind, aren’t they?” Minerva had removed the chicken from the oven, and was letting it cool as she poured two glasses of wine.

“No I occasionally ponder other things,” Albus replied mysteriously as he followed Minerva and the levitated food into the dinning room. However Albus’ heart made a substantial drop when he saw the room, for the lights had been dimmed and candles gave off a romantic glow.

“Albus, is something wrong?” Minerva’s faced etched in worry as she watched Albus stare into her small room. It was not the desired effect she had intended the alterations to make, and Minerva began to worry she had misjudged everything completely.

“No, my dear, the room is lovely.” Albus recovered, but he tried to discreetly wipe the sweat off of his upper lip. Minerva smiled in reply, and filled his plate before her own.

Dinner was unusual as Albus attempted to keep Minerva’s attention on the mundane running of the school. She was certain that when it was time to serve dessert she could immediately step into Albus’ shoes, and need no time for the transition. Sighing she exited the room determined to change the subject once she returned.

“Alright, Albus. Do you have a guess on what your dessert is?”

“Chocolate cake,” he safely guessed, having not thought about it once since his eyes beheld Minerva’s dinning room.

“Wrong!” Minerva exclaimed excitedly, “and now I do believe that is one weekend to Paris you owe me.” She positively beamed, and Albus dreaded the moment he had to tell her there was no way he could take her to Paris; the city of love is not where he wanted to go.

“I’ve noticed your penchant for lemon, so it is lemon meringue this evening. I called the local café in town, and was able to get their recipe. Though it was a hassle, I practically had to threaten the young man before he would depart with it; but all for a good cause, right?”

A huge piece appeared on Albus’ plate, and he dug into it as if he had not eaten in days. “My I thought dinner was quite filling, was it not?” Minerva voiced her concern, her eyes wide as Albus had finished his piece in no less than four bites.

“No dinner was wonderful, as was dessert. The recipe was excellent, and you did a lovely job.”

Minerva blushed, and ducked her head to eat her small piece in an attempt to hide the effects of Albus’ compliment.

Nervously Albus tapped his fingers on his knee. The dinner had been wonderful, and he could tell Minerva had spent a lot of time on it. She looked beautiful, but Albus tried not to comment hoping to edge their relationship back into the purely platonic lane. He knew for many Minerva would be heaven, and she truly was a goddess but he just wasn’t ready yet.

Albus tried to think of Olivia and some of their memories but it was difficult. His mind kept returning to his recent ones with Minerva, and the moment he first saw her at the party. Jumping up Albus startled Minerva.

“Albus! What is the matter? And don’t you tell me nothing, you have been acting strangely all evening.” Minerva had stood as well, and led Albus back into the living room.

“It was, er, a little hot.” Lamely Albus attempted to cover the real reason for his behavior, but he was hoping she’d let him off early tonight. However he had not counted on Minerva’s delicate hand to gently touch his forehead; her hand was so cool, and soft. For a moment Albus closed his eyes, but then he quickly moved away and toward the door.

“I’m sorry, Minerva, I just can’t do this.”

“You can’t do what?” Now Minerva was completely confused. She stood in the middle of her living room watching Albus retreat to her door.

“The dinner, the candles, your hand…I just. I’m not ready for a romantic relationship, Minerva. I’m sorry, but I made a promise…” he trailed off reaching for the door knob.

“She’s been gone many years, Albus. If you feel anything for me why not see where it goes? I’m willing to take it slow, whatever it takes to have you a part of my life. This may sound harsh,” Minerva continued in a softer voice, “but she’s gone, Albus, and you are not so don’t live as if you are.”

“You never knew her, and you don’t know what happened so do not discuss it,” Albus replied a bit more forcefully than he intended.

“Do you think I would ask you to forget what you two had?” Minerva pressed on, “Because I wouldn’t. You can remember your love for her, and your memories. It is part of who you are, and I would never ask you to abandon that.”

“No, I just can’t,” and before Minerva could get another word out Albus had left. The door stood wide open, and Minerva could only bring herself to close it when a huge gust of wind turned over a small vase of flowers on an end table.

For hours Minerva stared into her fireplace, only she never saw the fireplace. Sometimes her mind would drift to the weekends she spent with Albus, and sometimes not a single thought would enter her mind. It was not until three o’clock the following morning that she allowed herself to cry.

[Miss Q]

You have to update soon!!!!

An excellent chapter, but Albus REALLY need to get a grip!!!! Poor Minerva, don't let her get her heart broken!!!

M

[Hogwarts Duo]

First of all...sorry I missed the last update. No clue how how that happened but I'm back on track now and hope to stay there!

I felt sooo sorry for Minerva. She went to all that trouble just to please Albus and then for him to just run off like that was just wrong. I hope somebody will knock some sense into him and make him see what he's missing.

Great story and I eagerly wait your next update!

[Herzele]

Poor Minerva ... Albus really needs to get a grip !!

This is a great story and I hope you update soon !

[QuillofMinerva]

Oh wow that an update and now I need another one because I am sitting with an opened mouth!

I can understand the conflict Albus must be going through but he was a little harsh with Minerva after all the effort she put into the meal. He needs to talk to her and not run away from what he is feeling ect.

Please update soon

Clayre x

[JKMcGonagall]

Albus, (hits the back of his head with my hand) get a grip. Poor Min, worked so hard on the perfect evening then, Albus, acting like a brat, spoiled it. I understand his feelings, but he needs to live in the present, not in the past. After all, Min seems to understand, and is willing to go slowly.

Please update soon.

Kay

[tayryn]

oh no! now i feel bad for both of them!

nice update... more really soon would be really great. *g*

[Alesia]

I don't know maybe I am just being contrary today but I think Min moved too fast. (Don't get me wrong I liked the chapter and you wrote it well)

It may seem devious but if she knows about Olivia (how long it has been and their relationship, etc.) then Min needs to move slower. Albus is confused because he isn't ready to face his feelings for Min. If she had acted just a tad bit more subtle then he may not have panicked and fled. Yes, Albus needs to get a grip but if Olivia really did make him promise to not get involved with anyone else or wait for her (which is kind of what it sounds like & yes some people are really that selfish) then he will have to totally in love with Min before he is willing to make any kind of move. Min needs to slowly flirt with him but not obviously and he will fall in love with her. He was already flirting with her pretty heavily in the living room he didn't freak out until he got to the dining room.

I like the way you have handled this and am very much looking forward to your next update. It is going to interesting to see how Albus now handles two sets of guilt – the “betrayal” of Olivia and his hurting of Minerva.

[LadyJolly]

If Olivia really loved him then she would hope that he would live happily for the rest of his life. And I think he would live happily with Minerva so he needs to get a grip and see that. Poor Minerva.

Lady Jolly

[Sensiblyquirky]

Chapter Nine: Knock

The field of wildflowers was intensely vivid in its detail: the daffodils and irises stood out among all the rest. However the field was never still, but moving at a pace similar to clouds on a bright spring day. Knock. A faint sound out of this dreamland could be heard. Knock, there it was again only this time it was louder creating ripples in the image. Knock, Knock, Knock. As the sound grew louder the field diminished in vibrancy and scale till it was barely there.

Emily awoke as most sleepers who wish to continue dreaming do: slow and disoriented. Rubbing her eyes she sat up, and finally heard the incessant knocking at her door. Rising quickly she threw a shawl over her shoulders before reaching for her wand, and then proceeded to move to her door.

“Who is it?” Emily inquired upon reaching her door.

“Minerva, please let me in Emily.” Cautiously Emily opened her door, and gasped at the sight before her. It was indeed Minerva, but she looked nothing like herself. She was soaked from the storm that was raging outside, and her hair was completely down. Most of all her eyes withheld a sadness Emily had never before seen in them.

“Hurry and get out of the storm,” Emily directed softly.

Minerva stood to the right of the door once she had stepped inside, and waited for Emily to close the door. Without a word Emily pointed her wand at Minerva, and performed the necessary spells to ensure that her friend was both clean and dry.

“What happened?” Emily softly asked as they were seated on the couch in her small living room.

Having cried most of her tears, Minerva related her evening to Emily stoically, her eyes the only part of her that depicted her pain.

Emily sighed inwardly, and closed her eyes quickly before reaching for her friend’s hand. “Minerva, I love you dearly but you can be a tad impatient at times. Do you think you were with Albus?”

Minerva’s sharp gaze turned on Emily in a flash, but quickly the anger subsided and Minerva slowly nodded her head. “I can’t explain it, Emily. I just want to be with him in every way, but if he would only get that damned Olivia out of his head.”

“Have you ever spoken to him about her?”

“I tried tonight, when he said he couldn’t partake in a romantic relationship with me but that didn’t go over too well,” Minerva admitted leaning her head against the back of the sofa.

“Do you think given a few days you two could discuss the incident rashly, and perhaps continue your weekends together…under the assumption that you are merely friends,” Emily quickly added.

“No. You should have seen his face. It was twisted in pain and horror almost. Also, I’m not sure I could do that. Consciously or subconsciously I’d flirt with him, which might make matters worse since he knows I desire something beyond friendship. I’ve just never met another man like him, Emily.”

“You are trespassing into the borders of love, Minerva. If you feel that strongly for him then you can’t give up now. You’ll have to accept how slowly things will have to go.”

“That is part of my problem. I can’t fight for a man that isn’t among the living.”

“He needs a reason to return to it,” Emily replied softly, her gaze trained on Minerva’s face.

“Even if that were true I highly doubt Albus will want to spend five minutes in my company, much less as long as what you are speaking of could take.”

For a few moments the two women sat in silence, each gazing at the fireplace, before Emily stood up and insisted that Minerva try to sleep in her guestroom.

“Emily,” Minerva called halting in the doorway to her room, “thanks.”

*

Albus stumbled through the gates of Hogwarts shielding himself against the gusts of wind brought on by the evening storm. His clothes clung to him, outlining lean muscle definition in their desperate attempt to remain on his frame, and not be lost to the elements. Wisps of hair stuck to his face and long nose as it escaped from the ribbon tying it all together.

However all was lost on Albus: his memories had commandeered his mental capacity, the past retaking the present in such shocking detail as to dispel the ridiculous suggestion that a past, any past, was not worth studying, contemplating, learning, and loving.

On a night much like this one Albus had climbed the hill toward his house, and wife. As he approached, Albus noticed the door was wide open, a highly unusual occurrence during the current reign of terror. Hastily Albus moved inside, his wand already drawn.

“Olivia!” he called frantically, the disheveled state of their living room working to further alarm him.

Running into their bedroom Albus was not prepared for the sight that met his eyes. Olivia was lying on the ground in a pool of blood, her hair unraveled from the braid she perpetually wore it in. Her robes were torn, and she wasn’t breathing or so Albus thought.

Quickly he dropped to his knees, and carefully lifted her into his arms. “Olivia,” he pleaded begging her to answer.

“A-Allbus,-” came the extremely weak reply.

“Hold on, love, hold on. I’ll get you to St. Mungo’s.

“N-no. There were f-f…”

“Sh, don’t talk. Conserve your energy, darling,” Albus whispered running one hand through her hair.

“Always love me?” Olivia barely chocked out.

“Always.”

“But move on,”

“Never.”

“Albus-“ Olivia tried to say more but her eyes drifted closed, her last breath extinguished as she died in his arms./

Looking up Albus half expected the large oak doors in front of him to be open, but instead he had to push against them as he slipped inside. It was a rare moment indeed when Albus took the most direct route to his rooms, and did not pop into the kitchen for some hot chocolate.

Once in his rooms Albus collapsed in his favorite chair too preoccupied with his thoughts to change clothes, or mutter the correct cleaning spell. He sat staring into space until a knock sounded at his door. Albus glared at the interruption, and did not move to open it. Several moments later it opened of its own accord.

Armando Dippet carefully took in his Deputy’s appearance before cleaning him up, and taking a seat.

“I wish to be alone,” Albus firmly stated.

“I gathered. I admit being Headmaster has its benefits. So tell me Albus what exactly are you afraid of?”

“Roaches”

“Are you afraid of losing her, getting hurt, or are you afraid you’ll love her more than Olivia?”

“-dreadful things roaches, move very fast.”

“She would have wanted you to move on, and this girl, whoever she is, was good for you.”

“-awful when you cut the light on.”

“Yes they don’t like to be exposed any more than people do. Tell me Albus how would you react if someone cut on the light?”

“Probably as I am now since the light is on,” was Albus’ tart reply.

“Olivia,-“ Armando started until Albus interrupted him.

“Don’t talk about her.”

“I knew her longer than you did, son, and if I wish to discuss her I will.”

Albus sent a menacing glare in the Headmaster’s direction, but lowered his eyes when he found a steelier one in return.

“As I was saying, it has been years Albus, and I can respect your decision to a degree. Since seeing this girl you have been less melancholy. Why you persist in living your life in sheer misery is beyond me.”

“We were only friends,” Albus admitted quietly.

“Then why the hell did you run, as your state tonight suggests? If she had that affect on you when you weren’t courting her…” Armando broke off as he ran his hand through his hair.

“A good beating,” he mumbled, “that’s what you need.”

“And I thought you were above such violence.”

“Yes well stupidity calls for desperate measures.”

“I’m not being stupid,” Albus argued ready for Armando to take his leave.

“Forgive me, you are being a coward. I never thought I’d see the day when the term was associated with your name.” Armando rose from his seat, and sighed his way to the door.
*

Three days later Minerva had to take deep breaths to calm her nerves as she sat her writing desk. Her hand was trembling slightly as she reached for her quill. She had decided to write Albus a letter. She wasn’t quite sure of what to say yet, but hoped that once she started writing something would come to mind.

Dear Albus,

‘Well it is a start,’ Minerva thought to herself after five minutes had passed from the moment she began her letter. ‘What am I supposed to say? I’m sorry I happened to fall for you, and moved too fast. Why don’t we meet? Oh wait I have feelings for you that you are scared of…’

Shaking her head Minerva tried to clear her mind of all pessimistic thoughts; they certainly wouldn’t help her now.

Three hours, fifteen rough drafts, five glasses of pumpkin juice, and half a tin of ginger newts later Minerva finished her letter. Quickly she wrapped the parchment, and sent it off with her owl before she could dissuade herself from sending it.

A few hours later a very busy Albus Dumbledore opened his window to a rather persistent owl, only to be scorned by the ruddy bird once its parchment had been delivered.

“Bloody foul bird,” Albus mumbled tearing the letter open. His heart stopped.

Dear Albus,

I hope this finds you well, and not working too hard. I want to apologize for my actions the other evening, for I did not mean to cause you harm. My behavior was hasty and selfish.

I do not deny that I find you an extremely intriguing man, and believe that any woman long in your company would grow to see you as such. However your friendship is one I value, and would like to still maintain.

Perhaps we could meet for lunch next week,

Minerva./

Albus read the letter, re-read the letter, put it down, and then read it again. How would he ever respond or should he even respond? Sighing he stashed the letter away in his desk to be dealt with at another time, and returned to his paper work.

*

After a week had gone by Minerva gave up all hope of receiving a response from Albus. Emily had been surprised to learn Albus had not responded to her friend’s letter, and with each passing day she became angrier at the man.

Minerva was a wonderful person, for one thing, and he’d be very lucky with her in his life for another, not to mention how rude it was of him not to respond. By the end of the second week Emily had worked herself up, and before she had time to contemplate the repercussions of her actions she was knocking on Deputy Headmaster Dumbledore’s door…

[Herzele]

Wow !!
Update soon, please !! ;D
I really hope Albus get's over Olivia soon or Emily will have to knock some sense into him ...

[ginger newts]

Gosh, I'm missing chapters all over the place.

So they've finally gotten to the crossroads. I think if Minerva is patient and understanding and just loves him, but doesn't demand anything back for a while they'll get through it together. And since it's you writing, I know he'll eventually give her the chance to do something like that.

I wonder what Emily has in mind, that doesn't sound good... Update soon.